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Showing posts from December, 2023

Justin Welby: Political leaders should treat opponents as human beings

The Archbishop of Canterbury urges politicians to "forswear wedge issues" and avoid divisive topics.

Chris Mason: Get ready - general election talk will dominate 2024

A new year, and all the political parties are focusing their planning and attention on the polls ahead.

Liz Truss unveils resignation honours list

The ex-PM, who was in office for 49 days, gives supporters and former aides honours, sparking criticism.

UK sending more air defence missiles to Ukraine after Russia strikes

The move to bolster the country's air defence comes after Moscow launched a wave of attacks overnight.

Labour considers processing asylum seekers overseas

The party is exploring whether some could have their claims assessed before reaching the UK.

Call for more action to tackle romance fraud

The government's anti-fraud champion Simon Fell says victims of relationship swindlers require more help.

New £38,700 visa rule will be introduced in early 2025, says Rishi Sunak

The minimum salary for a family to come to the UK will increase in two stages, the prime minister says.

Ministers row back on salary threshold for family visa

The salary threshold for a family visa to come to the UK will go up to £29,000 this spring, instead of £38,700.

Ministers row back on salary threshold for family visa

The salary threshold for a family visa to come to the UK will go up to £29,000 this spring, instead of £38,700.

Ministers row back on salary threshold for family visa

The Home Office now says the threshold for people who want to come to the UK will be at a lower level of £29,000 a year.

Ministers row back on salary threshold for family visa

The Home Office now says the threshold for people who want to come to the UK will be £29,000 a year.

Troubles legacy act: Ireland takes human rights case against UK

The UK government says it "profoundly regrets" the move over its bill to deal with Troubles-era crimes.

Troubles legacy act: Ireland takes human rights case against UK

The UK government says it "profoundly regrets" the move over its bill to deal with Troubles-era crimes.

Peter Bone MP loses seat as recall petition triggers by-election

A recall vote was held after the MP was suspended over bullying and sexual misconduct allegations.

Peter Bone MP loses seat as recall petition triggers by-election

A recall vote was held after the MP was suspended over bullying and sexual misconduct allegations.

Peter Bone MP loses seat as recall petition triggers by-election

A recall vote was held after the MP was suspended over bullying and sexual misconduct allegations.

Scottish Budget: Higher earners to pay more income tax

People earning more than £75,000 will pay more tax as part of efforts to plug a £1.5bn funding shortfall.

NI talks: Discussions on restoring Stormont are over, government says

Chris Heaton-Harris adds that a financial package of more than £3.3bn is now available.

Israel has gone beyond self-defence in Gaza, Tory MP Alicia Kearns says

The Foreign Affairs Committee chair says she thinks Israel has "lost its moral authority" in Gaza.

Spiking crackdown to see more funding for test kits

Modernising the law and training for door staff are also among measures announced by the government.

UK MP Layla Moran's family among hundreds trapped in Gaza church

Layla Moran's relatives and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem say a sniper has killed two women there.

Drakeford resigns: Eluned Morgan out of Wales leader race

Eluned Morgan out of contest to replace Mark Drakeford, but Jeremy Miles has enough backers to run.

Vaughan Gething announces Welsh first minister bid

Economy minister to stand, and cabinet colleague Jeremy Miles expected also to confirm candidacy.

Ex-minister David Davis intervenes in street attack near Parliament

David Davis says a rough sleeper was "badly beaten up" after two men kicked "seven bells" out of him.

Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford resigns

Mark Drakeford denies the backlash over 20mph played into his decision to quit.

Drakeford resignation: Who will be Wales' next first minister?

BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis looks at the names in the mix to succeed Mark Drakeford.

Climate minister Graham Stuart makes 6,824 mile round trip for Rwanda vote

The government dragged MPs back to Parliament, fearing a tight vote on Rwanda bill.

Bibby Stockholm: Asylum seeker on board barge dies

The man who died on the vessel, moored off Dorset, is thought to have taken his own life.

Rishi Sunak sees off Tory rebellion in Rwanda bill vote

Flagship bill passes its first Commons hurdle but PM still faces battle to get it through Parliament.

Rishi Sunak sees off Tory rebellion over Rwanda bill

Flagship bill passes its first Commons hurdle but PM still faces battle to get it through Parliament.

Chris Mason: Sunak takes the win but the battle is not over

The PM secures a comfortable victory in crunch Rwanda vote but his troubles are far from over.

Watch: Why Sunak’s Rwanda bill battle isn’t over

The BBC's Ione Wells tells us what's next for the PM's Rwanda plan after it passes a vote in the Commons.

Watch: Moment Sunak wins Rwanda vote

MPs voted in support of a bill to revive the PM's Rwanda policy by 313 to 269 votes.

Bibby Stockholm: Asylum seeker on board barge dies

The man who died on the vessel, moored off Dorset, is thought to have taken his own life.

Rishi Sunak faces crunch Rwanda vote as Tory MPs split

MPs on the right want legislation to go further but more centrist Tories warn against changes.

How much trouble is PM in over Rwanda bill?

Rishi Sunak’s fragile authority is on display as warring Tory factions weigh up the Rwanda Bill.

Covid inquiry: Eat Out To Help Out curbed devastating job losses - PM

Rishi Sunak defends the scheme and says advisers and ministers had "ample" chances to raise concerns.

David Cameron threat over Yousaf's Erdogan meeting 'breach'

Foreign Secretary says first minister broke protocol by meeting Turkish president without a UK official.

Gap between haves and have-nots widening, report warns

Issues including stagnant wages and mental health problems risk becoming entrenched, report warns.

India's GDP growth is reflection of transformative reforms of last 10 years: PM Modi

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PM Modi praises India's GDP growth of 7.7% in the first half of the fiscal year, attributing it to the country's strengthening economy and transformative reforms. He aims to make GIFT City a global hub for financial and technology services. India is a leading fintech market, with GIFT IFSC emerging as its center. Modi calls for ideas on developing a market mechanism for green credits. Additionally, he congratulates Gujarat for the inclusion of Garba dance in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. PM Modi praises India's GDP growth of 7.7% in the first half of the fiscal year, attributing it to the country's strengthening economy and transformative reforms. He aims to make GIFT City a global hub for financial and technology services. India is a leading fintech market, with GIFT IFSC emerging as its center. Modi calls for ideas on developing a market mechanism for green credits. Additionally, he congratulates Gujarat for the inclusion of Garba dance in UNESCO...

India records 148 new Covid-19 cases

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'Implementation of Uniform Civil Code to guarantee women from minority communities same rights as Hindu sisters': BJP MP

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Rajya Sabha MP Harnath Singh Yadav from Uttar Pradesh strongly advocates for early implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. He emphasizes that UCC would ensure equal rights for women from Muslim, Christian, and other minority communities in terms of property, inheritance, and post-divorce maintenance. Yadav cites Article 44 of the Indian Constitution, which supports the enforcement of UCC for all citizens. He argues that UCC is not about religious or marriage rites but about humanity and equal treatment. Rajya Sabha MP Harnath Singh Yadav from Uttar Pradesh strongly advocates for early implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. He emphasizes that UCC would ensure equal rights for women from Muslim, Christian, and other minority communities in terms of property, inheritance, and post-divorce maintenance. Yadav cites Article 44 of the Indian Constitution, which supports the enforcement of UCC for all citizens. He argues that UCC is not about religious or mar...

World recognizes that there's no option but to come to India for a large demand: Piyush Goyal

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Union Minister Piyush Goyal, speaking at the 23rd Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) Excellence Honours, emphasized the need for deeper engagement with India due to its substantial demand. He highlighted the unprecedented opportunity presented by 1.4 billion people aspiring for a better future. Goyal expressed gratitude for the chance to work in the 'Amrit Kaal' and take India to greater heights. The Union Minister also acknowledged the contributions of Indian Apparel exporters in expanding exports. Union Minister Piyush Goyal, speaking at the 23rd Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) Excellence Honours, emphasized the need for deeper engagement with India due to its substantial demand. He highlighted the unprecedented opportunity presented by 1.4 billion people aspiring for a better future. Goyal expressed gratitude for the chance to work in the 'Amrit Kaal' and take India to greater heights. The Union Minister also acknowledged the contributions of Indian Appa...

Russian President Putin praises PM Modi for his tough policies; says he is 'main guarantor' of steady Russia-India relationship

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Russian President Putin praises Indian PM Modi for defending national interests without being intimidated by Western countries and sanctions. Putin sees Modi's tough stance as the main guarantor of developing bilateral ties. The Russian leader believes that Modi is not easily frightened or forced to act against India's interests. Putin acknowledges the pressure on Modi from unfriendly countries but admires his commitment to defending the Indian state. Western countries have criticized India for charting its own course amidst Western sanctions against Russia. Russian President Putin praises Indian PM Modi for defending national interests without being intimidated by Western countries and sanctions. Putin sees Modi's tough stance as the main guarantor of developing bilateral ties. The Russian leader believes that Modi is not easily frightened or forced to act against India's interests. Putin acknowledges the pressure on Modi from unfriendly countries but admires his commi...

PM Modi greets Sonia Gandhi on her birthday

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Speculations intensify on CM pick in Rajasthan as spotlight shifts to Delhi

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Leaders from Rajasthan, including former CM Vasundhara Raje and state president CP Joshi, have traveled to Delhi to meet with senior national BJP leaders. They are discussing the formation of the Rajasthan government and seeking input from central leaders. The most likely model for the government will be two deputy CMs to maintain a caste balance ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, projected as a frontrunner, has also been in Delhi for the Parliament session. Leaders from Rajasthan, including former CM Vasundhara Raje and state president CP Joshi, have traveled to Delhi to meet with senior national BJP leaders. They are discussing the formation of the Rajasthan government and seeking input from central leaders. The most likely model for the government will be two deputy CMs to maintain a caste balance ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, projected as a frontrunner, has also been in Delhi for the Parliament s...

Government steps up measures to rein in food prices

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Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's killers were in Jaipur days before murder: Cops

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Calcutta HC pulls up police for delay in FIR on BJP worker murder

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Don't upload questions myself as I can't operate computers: JD(U)'s Giridhari Yadav in Lok Sabha

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Family unleashes dogs on power department collecting dues

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A routine visit by electricity officials to collect overdue bills turned violent when a family in Bulandshahr unleashed their pet dogs on them. The officials from PVVNL had visited the house to recover a pending bill of over Rs 3.5 lakh. The family not only refused to pay but also beat the officials with sticks and released their German Shepherd and Labrador on them. One official sustained injuries from the dog attack and beating, while others suffered minor injuries. An FIR has been registered against the family. A routine visit by electricity officials to collect overdue bills turned violent when a family in Bulandshahr unleashed their pet dogs on them. The officials from PVVNL had visited the house to recover a pending bill of over Rs 3.5 lakh. The family not only refused to pay but also beat the officials with sticks and released their German Shepherd and Labrador on them. One official sustained injuries from the dog attack and beating, while others suffered minor injuries. An FIR ...

'Accidental firing' inside thana critically injures woman

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Case of sour grapes, says Praful Patel

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Government approves cheetah breeding centre in Gujarat

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Planning to study in Canada? You'll need more money in a/c

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Starting January 1, international students must double the amount in their bank accounts to be eligible for a Canadian study permit. This announcement was made by Marc Miller, Canada's immigration minister. The cost of living requirement has increased from Can$ 10,000 to Can$ 20,635 due to rising costs, especially housing costs. In addition to the financial requirement, Miller mentioned that Canada may limit visas if educational institutions fail to support international students sufficiently. The waiver on the 20-hour limit for off-campus work has been extended until April 30, 2024. Starting January 1, international students must double the amount in their bank accounts to be eligible for a Canadian study permit. This announcement was made by Marc Miller, Canada's immigration minister. The cost of living requirement has increased from Can$ 10,000 to Can$ 20,635 due to rising costs, especially housing costs. In addition to the financial requirement, Miller mentioned that Canada...

Don't preach, SC says after Calcutta HC judges' needless remark

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The Supreme Court disapproves the Calcutta High Court's sweeping observations on adolescent girls' sexual urges. The Supreme Court takes suo motu cognisance and questions the validity of the High Court's order for acquitting the accused. The Supreme Court states that judges should decide cases based on law and facts, not preach during judicial proceedings. The Supreme Court finds the High Court's observations objectionable. The Supreme Court issues notice to the victim, accused, and West Bengal government. The Supreme Court disapproves the Calcutta High Court's sweeping observations on adolescent girls' sexual urges. The Supreme Court takes suo motu cognisance and questions the validity of the High Court's order for acquitting the accused. The Supreme Court states that judges should decide cases based on law and facts, not preach during judicial proceedings. The Supreme Court finds the High Court's observations objectionable. The Supreme Court issues not...

BJP defends TMC MP Mahua Moitra's expulsion, says issue not related to women

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BJP justifies Mahua Moitra's expulsion from Lok Sabha on 'cash for query' charges, stating it is not a gender issue and highlighting her admission of receiving gifts from Darshan Hiranandani. Pralhad Joshi, the parliamentary affairs minister, questions the need for further proof. Sukanta Majumdar, West Bengal BJP chief, emphasizes that Mahua should have presented her side before the ethics committee. Locket Chatterjee, BJP MP, urges against politicizing national security. BJP justifies Mahua Moitra's expulsion from Lok Sabha on 'cash for query' charges, stating it is not a gender issue and highlighting her admission of receiving gifts from Darshan Hiranandani. Pralhad Joshi, the parliamentary affairs minister, questions the need for further proof. Sukanta Majumdar, West Bengal BJP chief, emphasizes that Mahua should have presented her side before the ethics committee. Locket Chatterjee, BJP MP, urges against politicizing national security.

Most tenacious witch-hunt against a woman MP: Mahua Moitra

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Mahua Moitra, a defiant first-time MP, was expelled from Parliament in what she called a tenacious witch-hunt. Surrounded by party colleagues and opposition members, she vowed to fight for the next 30 years. She accused the Modi government of trying to silence her and divert attention from the Adani issue. Moitra also claimed that the CBI and ED have ignored the Rs 13,000 crore coal scam involving Adani. Several politician criticized her expulsion and expressed support for her. Mahua Moitra, a defiant first-time MP, was expelled from Parliament in what she called a tenacious witch-hunt. Surrounded by party colleagues and opposition members, she vowed to fight for the next 30 years. She accused the Modi government of trying to silence her and divert attention from the Adani issue. Moitra also claimed that the CBI and ED have ignored the Rs 13,000 crore coal scam involving Adani. Several politician criticized her expulsion and expressed support for her.

Mahua Moitra will get justice in people's Parliament: Didi

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Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee assures expelled MP Mahua Moitra of justice in upcoming Lok Sabha elections, stating that she will be the party candidate. Banerjee criticizes BJP for denying Moitra the right to defend herself and accuses them of murdering democracy. She believes that the expulsion was a result of BJP's political vendetta against a woman from the young generation. Banerjee vows that the opposition alliance INDIA will fight against Moitra's expulsion together. Congress and CPM also condemn the action and express solidarity with Moitra. Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee assures expelled MP Mahua Moitra of justice in upcoming Lok Sabha elections, stating that she will be the party candidate. Banerjee criticizes BJP for denying Moitra the right to defend herself and accuses them of murdering democracy. She believes that the expulsion was a result of BJP's political vendetta against a woman from the young generation. Banerjee vows that the opposition alliance INDIA will fight ...

Man gets 'jail till last breath' for raping minor stepdaughter

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6 dead, 10 hurt as fire breaks out at candle factory in Pune

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Six-year-old girl raped at wedding function in Dausa

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A six-year-old girl was allegedly raped by an unidentified person at a wedding function in Dausa district. She was moved to JK Lon Hospital in Jaipur for treatment, and her condition is stable, said police. The minor had gone to attend the wedding function with her parents. She was allegedly raped by an unidentified person at the hotel and the adjoining garden. Her parents found her in distress and also noticed injuries on her body. Police are investigating the incident and searching for the suspect. A six-year-old girl was allegedly raped by an unidentified person at a wedding function in Dausa district. She was moved to JK Lon Hospital in Jaipur for treatment, and her condition is stable, said police. The minor had gone to attend the wedding function with her parents. She was allegedly raped by an unidentified person at the hotel and the adjoining garden. Her parents found her in distress and also noticed injuries on her body. Police are investigating the incident and searching for t...

India a rank up, now 7th on climate change performance

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HC sends notice to Kerala CM, daughter over her co's 'deals'

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Kerala high court issues notice to CM Pinarayi Vijayan, daughter T Veena, and others over alleged financial transactions between a private mineral company and Veena's IT firm. Also issued notice to Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, IUML leaders PK Kunhalikutty and VK Ebrahim Kunju, and Veena's firm Exalogic Solutions. The court had appointed a lawyer as amicus curiae to represent the deceased petitioner, social activist Gireesh Babu. CM Vijayan dismisses the notice, while opposition leader VD Satheesan accuses the ED of favoritism. Controversy arose after reports of CMRL paying Rs 1.72 crore to Veena's firm without services rendered. Kerala high court issues notice to CM Pinarayi Vijayan, daughter T Veena, and others over alleged financial transactions between a private mineral company and Veena's IT firm. Also issued notice to Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, IUML leaders PK Kunhalikutty and VK Ebrahim Kunju, and Veena's firm Exalogic Solutions. The court had ...