A new personal assistant selected by the Queen is to become the first black equerry in British history.
Major Nana Kofi Twumasi-Ankrah, a Ghanaian-born officer who fought in the Afghanistan war, will fill one of the most important roles in the royal household, The Times reports.
As an equerry, Major Twumasi-Ankrah – known as “TA” to his friends – will act as one of the Queen’s most-trusted attendants, assisting her with official engagements and welcoming high profile guests to royal residences.
Sunday, July 9, 2017
Saturday, July 8, 2017
Queen Elizabeth II owns every dolphin in Britain and doesn't need a driving licence
Queen Elizabeth II is not like you and me.
Did you know she is immune from prosecution? That she has her own personal poet, paid in Sherry wine? Or that she holds dominion over British swans and can fire the entire Australian government?
It's true that her role as the British head of state is largely ceremonial, and the Monarch no longer holds any serious power from day to day. The historic "prerogative powers" of the Sovereign have been devolved largely to government ministers. But this still means that when the British government declares war, or regulates the civil service, or signs a treaty, it is doing so only on her authority.
And she still wields some of these prerogative powers herself — as well as numerous other unique powers, ranging from the surprising to the utterly bizarre.
Most famously, she owns all swans in the River Thames.
Technically, all unmarked swans in open water belong to the Queen, though the Crown "exercises her ownership" only "on certain stretches of the Thames and its surrounding tributaries," according to the official website of the Royal Family.
Today this tradition is observed during the annual "Swan Upping," in which swans in the River Thames are caught, ringed, and set free again as part of census of the swan population.
It's a highly ceremonial affair, taking place over five days. "Swan uppers" wear traditional uniforms and row upriver in six skiffs accompanied by the Queen's Swan Marker.
"The swans are also given a health check and ringed with individual identification numbers by The Queen's Swan Warden, a Professor of Ornithology at the University of Oxford's Department of Zoology," according to the Royal Family website.
The Sovereign also has dominion over all dolphins in British waters.
"Rule, Britannia, Britannia rules the waves," goes a classic British song — and this rule extends beneath the waves, too. The sovereign has dominion over a variety of aquatic animals in British waters.
The Queen still technically owns all the sturgeons, whales, and dolphins in the waters around England and Wales, in a rule that dates back to a statute from 1324, during the reign of King Edward II, according to Time.
According to the article: "This statute is still valid today, and sturgeons, porpoises, whales, and dolphins are recognised as 'fishes royal': when they are captured within 3 miles (about 5 km) of UK shores or wash ashore, they may be claimed on behalf of the Crown. Generally, when brought into port, a sturgeon is sold in the usual way, and the purchaser, as a gesture of loyalty, requests the honour of its being accepted by Elizabeth."
The law is still observed: In 2004, a Welsh fisherman was investigated by the police after catching a 10-foot sturgeon, the BBC reported at the time. The Scottish government also issued guidance on the law in 2007, writing that "the right to claim Royal Fish in Scotland allows the Scottish Government (on behalf of the Crown) to claim stranded whales which are too large to be drawn to land by a 'wain pulled by six oxen.'"
The Queen can drive without a licence.
Driving licenses are issued in the Queen's name, yet she is the only person in the United Kingdom who doesn't legally need a license to drive or a number plate on her cars, according to Time.
Despite not being required to have a license, the Queen is comfortable behind the wheel, having learned to drive during World War II when she operated a first-aid truck for the Women's Auxillary Territorial Service. (As a result of the Queen's training, she can also change a spark plug, Time notes).
Queen Elizabeth II isn't afraid to show off her driving skills, either. In 1998, she surprised King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia (then still a prince) by driving him around in her country seat of Balmoral.
Former British Ambassador Sherard Cowper-Coles recounted the meeting in the Sunday Times: "As instructed, the crown prince climbed into the front seat of the front Land Rover, with his interpreter in the seat behind. To his surprise, the Queen climbed into the driving seat, turned the ignition and drove off. Women are not — yet — allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia, and Abdullah was not used to being driven by a woman, let alone a queen."
Cowper-Coles continued: "His nervousness only increased as the Queen, an army driver in wartime, accelerated the Land Rover along the narrow Scottish estate roads, talking all the time. Through his interpreter, the crown prince implored the Queen to slow down and concentrate on the road ahead."
Did you know she is immune from prosecution? That she has her own personal poet, paid in Sherry wine? Or that she holds dominion over British swans and can fire the entire Australian government?
It's true that her role as the British head of state is largely ceremonial, and the Monarch no longer holds any serious power from day to day. The historic "prerogative powers" of the Sovereign have been devolved largely to government ministers. But this still means that when the British government declares war, or regulates the civil service, or signs a treaty, it is doing so only on her authority.
And she still wields some of these prerogative powers herself — as well as numerous other unique powers, ranging from the surprising to the utterly bizarre.
Most famously, she owns all swans in the River Thames.
Technically, all unmarked swans in open water belong to the Queen, though the Crown "exercises her ownership" only "on certain stretches of the Thames and its surrounding tributaries," according to the official website of the Royal Family.
Today this tradition is observed during the annual "Swan Upping," in which swans in the River Thames are caught, ringed, and set free again as part of census of the swan population.
It's a highly ceremonial affair, taking place over five days. "Swan uppers" wear traditional uniforms and row upriver in six skiffs accompanied by the Queen's Swan Marker.
"The swans are also given a health check and ringed with individual identification numbers by The Queen's Swan Warden, a Professor of Ornithology at the University of Oxford's Department of Zoology," according to the Royal Family website.
The Sovereign also has dominion over all dolphins in British waters.
"Rule, Britannia, Britannia rules the waves," goes a classic British song — and this rule extends beneath the waves, too. The sovereign has dominion over a variety of aquatic animals in British waters.
The Queen still technically owns all the sturgeons, whales, and dolphins in the waters around England and Wales, in a rule that dates back to a statute from 1324, during the reign of King Edward II, according to Time.
According to the article: "This statute is still valid today, and sturgeons, porpoises, whales, and dolphins are recognised as 'fishes royal': when they are captured within 3 miles (about 5 km) of UK shores or wash ashore, they may be claimed on behalf of the Crown. Generally, when brought into port, a sturgeon is sold in the usual way, and the purchaser, as a gesture of loyalty, requests the honour of its being accepted by Elizabeth."
The law is still observed: In 2004, a Welsh fisherman was investigated by the police after catching a 10-foot sturgeon, the BBC reported at the time. The Scottish government also issued guidance on the law in 2007, writing that "the right to claim Royal Fish in Scotland allows the Scottish Government (on behalf of the Crown) to claim stranded whales which are too large to be drawn to land by a 'wain pulled by six oxen.'"
The Queen can drive without a licence.
Driving licenses are issued in the Queen's name, yet she is the only person in the United Kingdom who doesn't legally need a license to drive or a number plate on her cars, according to Time.
Despite not being required to have a license, the Queen is comfortable behind the wheel, having learned to drive during World War II when she operated a first-aid truck for the Women's Auxillary Territorial Service. (As a result of the Queen's training, she can also change a spark plug, Time notes).
Queen Elizabeth II isn't afraid to show off her driving skills, either. In 1998, she surprised King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia (then still a prince) by driving him around in her country seat of Balmoral.
Former British Ambassador Sherard Cowper-Coles recounted the meeting in the Sunday Times: "As instructed, the crown prince climbed into the front seat of the front Land Rover, with his interpreter in the seat behind. To his surprise, the Queen climbed into the driving seat, turned the ignition and drove off. Women are not — yet — allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia, and Abdullah was not used to being driven by a woman, let alone a queen."
Cowper-Coles continued: "His nervousness only increased as the Queen, an army driver in wartime, accelerated the Land Rover along the narrow Scottish estate roads, talking all the time. Through his interpreter, the crown prince implored the Queen to slow down and concentrate on the road ahead."
Friday, July 7, 2017
UNESCO declares Hebron Old City a world heritage
The United Nations' cultural arm declared the Old City of Hebron a protected heritage site in a secret ballot, an issue that has triggered a new Israeli-Palestinian spat at the international body.
UNESCO voted 12 to three - with six abstentions - to give heritage status to Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
Hebron is home to more than 200,000 Palestinians and a few hundred Israeli settlers, who live in a heavily fortified enclave near the site known to Muslims as the Ibrahimi Mosque and to Jews as the Tomb of the Patriarchs.
The resolution, brought by the Palestinians and which declares Hebron's Old City as an area of outstanding universal value, was fast-tracked on the basis that the site was under threat, with the Palestinians accusing Israel of an "alarming" number of violations, including vandalism and damage to properties.
On Tuesday in a separate vote, the heritage committee backed a resolution condemning Israeli actions in Jerusalem, sparking Israeli anger.
Israel says the Hebron resolution - which refers to the city as Islamic - denies thousands of years of Jewish connection there.
Hebron claims to be one of the oldest cities in the world, dating from the chalcolithic period or more than 3,000 years BC, the UNESCO resolution said.
The resolution is seen as a victory for Palestinian diplomacy and would be cited by Israel as a fresh example of what it alleges is the UN's inherent anti-Israel bias.
In May Israel reacted furiously after UNESCO passed a separate resolution on Jerusalem, and has recently prevented UNESCO researchers from visiting Hebron.
UNESCO voted 12 to three - with six abstentions - to give heritage status to Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
Hebron is home to more than 200,000 Palestinians and a few hundred Israeli settlers, who live in a heavily fortified enclave near the site known to Muslims as the Ibrahimi Mosque and to Jews as the Tomb of the Patriarchs.
The resolution, brought by the Palestinians and which declares Hebron's Old City as an area of outstanding universal value, was fast-tracked on the basis that the site was under threat, with the Palestinians accusing Israel of an "alarming" number of violations, including vandalism and damage to properties.
On Tuesday in a separate vote, the heritage committee backed a resolution condemning Israeli actions in Jerusalem, sparking Israeli anger.
Israel says the Hebron resolution - which refers to the city as Islamic - denies thousands of years of Jewish connection there.
Hebron claims to be one of the oldest cities in the world, dating from the chalcolithic period or more than 3,000 years BC, the UNESCO resolution said.
The resolution is seen as a victory for Palestinian diplomacy and would be cited by Israel as a fresh example of what it alleges is the UN's inherent anti-Israel bias.
In May Israel reacted furiously after UNESCO passed a separate resolution on Jerusalem, and has recently prevented UNESCO researchers from visiting Hebron.
Charlie Gard offered experimental drug by US hospital
An American hospital has offered to bring an experimental drug to the UK to treat terminally-ill Charlie Gard.
The hospital in New York has also said it is prepared to admit 11-month-old Charlie if "legal hurdles" can be cleared.
It is the latest intervention after US President Donald Trump and Pope Francis offered their help and prayers.
Chris Gard and Connie Yates, Charlie's parents, have been fighting a long legal battle with doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London who say the treatment would not help the child.
The US hospital said that it would treat Charlie with an experimental drug pending approval from government regulators, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
In a statement, the hospital said it has "agreed to admit and evaluate Charlie, provided that arrangements are made to safely transfer him to our facility, legal hurdles are cleared, and we receive emergency approval from the FDA for an experimental treatment as appropriate".
The hospital in New York has also said it is prepared to admit 11-month-old Charlie if "legal hurdles" can be cleared.
It is the latest intervention after US President Donald Trump and Pope Francis offered their help and prayers.
Chris Gard and Connie Yates, Charlie's parents, have been fighting a long legal battle with doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London who say the treatment would not help the child.
The US hospital said that it would treat Charlie with an experimental drug pending approval from government regulators, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
In a statement, the hospital said it has "agreed to admit and evaluate Charlie, provided that arrangements are made to safely transfer him to our facility, legal hurdles are cleared, and we receive emergency approval from the FDA for an experimental treatment as appropriate".
Trump and Putin at G20: meeting for the first time
Donald Trump has met Vladimir Putin face-to-face for the first time, with images showing the two leaders sharing a warm handshake.
The meeting took place during the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany. While the US and Russian presidents have previously spoken on the phone, they have never before met in person.
Footage released by the German government shows the pair smiling and shaking hands, before Mr Trump gives the Russian premier a friendly pat on the arm.
The two leaders will hold a longer meeting later in the day, which Russian media reports is scheduled to last one hour. Rex Tillerson, the US Secretary of State, and Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, are also likely to be present for the talks.
Issues likely to be discussed include the ongoing conflict in Syria, the threat posed by North Korea and climate change.
Mr Trump and Mr Putin have taken different positions on a range of international issues. Russia is a strong supporter of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, while the US is backing rebel opposition groups in Syria.
And Mr Putin has urged action to tackle climate change, whereas Donald Trump pulled the US out of the Paris Agreement that seeks to reduce CO2 emissions.
The US President used a speech in Warsaw, Poland, earlier in the week to urge Russia to stop "destabilising" Europe and instead "join the fight against common enemies and in defence of civilisation itself".
At home, Mr Trump is facing a host of inquiries into his alleged links with Russia. A special prosecutor, the FBI and several congressional committees are all investigating whether the businessman and his campaign team colluded with Moscow in order to influence the outcome of last year's US presidential election.
The start of the G20 summit, which runs from Friday to Sunday, was marred by violent protests in Hamburg. Protestors set fire to cars and threw rocks at the windows of banks and shops.
Mr Trump's wife, Melania, was reportedly unable to leave her hotel while German's Finance Minister, Wolfgang Schauble, was forced to cancel an event due to security fears.
The meeting took place during the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany. While the US and Russian presidents have previously spoken on the phone, they have never before met in person.
Footage released by the German government shows the pair smiling and shaking hands, before Mr Trump gives the Russian premier a friendly pat on the arm.
The two leaders will hold a longer meeting later in the day, which Russian media reports is scheduled to last one hour. Rex Tillerson, the US Secretary of State, and Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, are also likely to be present for the talks.
Issues likely to be discussed include the ongoing conflict in Syria, the threat posed by North Korea and climate change.
Mr Trump and Mr Putin have taken different positions on a range of international issues. Russia is a strong supporter of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, while the US is backing rebel opposition groups in Syria.
And Mr Putin has urged action to tackle climate change, whereas Donald Trump pulled the US out of the Paris Agreement that seeks to reduce CO2 emissions.
The US President used a speech in Warsaw, Poland, earlier in the week to urge Russia to stop "destabilising" Europe and instead "join the fight against common enemies and in defence of civilisation itself".
At home, Mr Trump is facing a host of inquiries into his alleged links with Russia. A special prosecutor, the FBI and several congressional committees are all investigating whether the businessman and his campaign team colluded with Moscow in order to influence the outcome of last year's US presidential election.
The start of the G20 summit, which runs from Friday to Sunday, was marred by violent protests in Hamburg. Protestors set fire to cars and threw rocks at the windows of banks and shops.
Mr Trump's wife, Melania, was reportedly unable to leave her hotel while German's Finance Minister, Wolfgang Schauble, was forced to cancel an event due to security fears.
Wednesday, July 5, 2017
Safest Countries in the World
The Global Peace Index 2016 was recently published by the think tank Institute for Economics and Peace, revealing the safest and most dangerous countries in the world.
The 10th annual edition of the report, which was released on June 8, ranked 163 countries based on their levels of peace and presented the findings on a colour-coded interactive map.
Every nation was issued a peace score out of 5 (the lower the score, the higher the level of peace), determined by analysis of 23 factors under three categories: the level of safety and security in society, domestic and international conflict, and militarisation.
Iceland claims the coveted title of the world's safest country. With a score of 1.192, the European nation ranks highly for its lack of domestic and international conflict as well as the calm state of its society.
Another Nordic country, Denmark, takes second place with a score of 1,246, while Austria is the third-safest place in the world, with a score of 1.278.
Of the 11 nations deemed to have a "very high" level of peace by the GPI, eight are in Europe, while Japan (named the 9th safest), Canada (8th), and New Zealand (4th) also make an appearance. Though, neither the UK (in 47th place) or US (103rd) make the cut.
Here are the 11 safest countries on Earth, along with their respective peace scores:
11. Finland - 1.429
10. Slovenia - 1.408
9. Japan - 1.395
8. Canada - 1.388
7. Switzerland - 1.37
6. Czech Republic - 1.36
5. Portugal - 1.356
4. New Zealand - 1.287
3. Austria - 1.278
2. Denmark - 1.246
1. Iceland - 1.192
The 10th annual edition of the report, which was released on June 8, ranked 163 countries based on their levels of peace and presented the findings on a colour-coded interactive map.
Every nation was issued a peace score out of 5 (the lower the score, the higher the level of peace), determined by analysis of 23 factors under three categories: the level of safety and security in society, domestic and international conflict, and militarisation.
Iceland claims the coveted title of the world's safest country. With a score of 1.192, the European nation ranks highly for its lack of domestic and international conflict as well as the calm state of its society.
Another Nordic country, Denmark, takes second place with a score of 1,246, while Austria is the third-safest place in the world, with a score of 1.278.
Of the 11 nations deemed to have a "very high" level of peace by the GPI, eight are in Europe, while Japan (named the 9th safest), Canada (8th), and New Zealand (4th) also make an appearance. Though, neither the UK (in 47th place) or US (103rd) make the cut.
Here are the 11 safest countries on Earth, along with their respective peace scores:
11. Finland - 1.429
10. Slovenia - 1.408
9. Japan - 1.395
8. Canada - 1.388
7. Switzerland - 1.37
6. Czech Republic - 1.36
5. Portugal - 1.356
4. New Zealand - 1.287
3. Austria - 1.278
2. Denmark - 1.246
1. Iceland - 1.192
Terror attacks receive five times more media coverage if perpetrator is Muslim, study finds
Terror attacks carried out by Muslims receive more than five times as much media coverage as those carried out by non-Muslims in the United States, according to an academic study.
Analysis of coverage of all terrorist attacks in the US between 2011 and 2015 found there was a 449 per cent increase in media attention when the perpetrator was Muslim.
Muslims committed just 12.4 per cent of attacks during the period studied but received 41.4 per cent of news coverage, the survey found.
US faces a new wave of homegrown political violence and terrorism
The authors said the finding suggests the media is making people disproportionately fearful of Muslim terrorists.
Scientists studied US newspaper coverage of every terrorist attack on American soil and counted up the total number of articles dedicated to each attack.
They found that the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, which was carried out by two Muslim attackers and killed three people, received almost 20 per cent of all coverage relating to US terror attacks in the five-year period.
In contrast, reporting of a 2012 massacre at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin that left six people dead and was carried out by Wade Michael Page – a white man, constituted just 3.8 per cent of coverage.
A mass shooting by Dylann Roof, who is also white, at an African-American church in Charleston, South Carolina, killed nine people but received only 7.4 per cent of media coverage, while a 2014 attack by Frazier Glenn Miller on a Kansas synagogue left three dead but accounted for just 3.3 per cent of reports.
Analysis of coverage of all terrorist attacks in the US between 2011 and 2015 found there was a 449 per cent increase in media attention when the perpetrator was Muslim.
Muslims committed just 12.4 per cent of attacks during the period studied but received 41.4 per cent of news coverage, the survey found.
US faces a new wave of homegrown political violence and terrorism
The authors said the finding suggests the media is making people disproportionately fearful of Muslim terrorists.
Scientists studied US newspaper coverage of every terrorist attack on American soil and counted up the total number of articles dedicated to each attack.
They found that the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, which was carried out by two Muslim attackers and killed three people, received almost 20 per cent of all coverage relating to US terror attacks in the five-year period.
In contrast, reporting of a 2012 massacre at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin that left six people dead and was carried out by Wade Michael Page – a white man, constituted just 3.8 per cent of coverage.
A mass shooting by Dylann Roof, who is also white, at an African-American church in Charleston, South Carolina, killed nine people but received only 7.4 per cent of media coverage, while a 2014 attack by Frazier Glenn Miller on a Kansas synagogue left three dead but accounted for just 3.3 per cent of reports.
All of the above attacks are considered to meet widely-used definitions of terrorism, according to researchers at Georgia State University.
The authors said their finding debunked Donald Trump’s suggestion, made in February, that the media is not reporting terrorist attacks carried out by Muslims.
“When President Trump asserted that the media does not cover some terrorist attacks enough, it turns out that he was correct,” they wrote. “However, his assertion that attacks by Muslim perpetrators received less coverage is unsubstantiated.
“Regardless of other factors, attacks perpetrated by Muslims receive a disproportionate amount of media coverage. In the present data, Muslims perpetrated 12.4 per cent of the attacks yet received 41.4 per cent of the news coverage.
“By covering terrorist attacks by Muslims dramatically more than other incidents, media frame this type of event as more prevalent. Based on these findings, it is no wonder that Americans are so fearful of radical Islamic terrorism. Reality shows, however, that these fears are misplaced.”
The authors said their finding debunked Donald Trump’s suggestion, made in February, that the media is not reporting terrorist attacks carried out by Muslims.
“When President Trump asserted that the media does not cover some terrorist attacks enough, it turns out that he was correct,” they wrote. “However, his assertion that attacks by Muslim perpetrators received less coverage is unsubstantiated.
“Regardless of other factors, attacks perpetrated by Muslims receive a disproportionate amount of media coverage. In the present data, Muslims perpetrated 12.4 per cent of the attacks yet received 41.4 per cent of the news coverage.
“By covering terrorist attacks by Muslims dramatically more than other incidents, media frame this type of event as more prevalent. Based on these findings, it is no wonder that Americans are so fearful of radical Islamic terrorism. Reality shows, however, that these fears are misplaced.”
Saudi Arabia 'top of the list' in funding extremism in Britain
Saudi Arabia is "undoubtedly at the top of the list" when it comes to funding Islamist extremism in Britain, it has been claimed.
The Henry Jackson Society said a clear and growing link can be drawn between overseas money, which mainly comes from Saudi Arabia, and the recent wave of attacks in the UK and Europe.
But Saudi Arabia's UK embassy has labelled the claim "categorically false".
Tom Wilson, who wrote the right-leaning Henry Jackson Society's report, said: "While entities from across the Gulf and Iran have been guilty of advancing extremism, those in Saudi Arabia are undoubtedly at the top of the list.
"Research indicates that some Saudi individuals and foundations have been apparently heavily involved in exporting an illiberal, bigoted Wahhabi ideology."
The think-tank has called for a public inquiry into the issue.
The kingdom's 60-year campaign to export Wahhabism, a strict interpretation of Islam, has led to support for mosques and Islamic institutions that appear to have links to extremism, the organisation said.
It found there have been "numerous" cases of Britons who have joined jihadist groups in Iraq and Syria whose radicalisation is thought to be linked to foreign-funded institutions and preachers.
The Henry Jackson Society said foreign funding for British extremism comes mainly from governments and state-backed foundations in the Gulf, along with Iran.
Mr Wilson added: "There is a clear and growing link between foreign funding of Islamist extremism and the violent terrorism we have witnessed across the UK and Europe.
"The key now is to get ahead of the issue and find out the full extent of what has been going on. A public inquiry would go some way to informing the debate."
Prime Minister Theresa May, who visited Saudi Arabia earlier this year, has faced accusations she is "kowtowing" to the kingdom by "suppressing" a report into the funding of extremist groups in the UK.
An inquiry was ordered by her predecessor David Cameron in 2015, but reports have suggested the findings may never be published because of the sensitivity of the information regarding Saudi Arabia.
Labour MP Dan Jarvis said the report "sheds light on what are extremely worrying links between Saudi Arabia and the funding of extremism here in the UK" and called on the Government to release the inquiry's report.
A Government spokesman said: "Defeating the evil ideology of Islamist extremism is one of the greatest challenges of our time.
"The Commission for Counter-Extremism, which the PM announced earlier this year, will have a key role to play in this fight.
"We are determined to cut off the funding which fuels the evils of extremism and terrorism, and will work closely with international partners to tackle this shared global threat, including at the upcoming G20 summit."
The Saudi embassy said the kingdom "has not and does not support or fund any group that has direct or indirect links to any terrorist organisation".
It said in a statement: "Accusations that blame the Kingdom for radicalising a small number of individuals are baseless and lack credible evidence. Terrorist ideology knows no nationality, language or borders.
"All charitable donations to educational and religious establishments by the Saudi state are made to registered charities in the UK.
"Saudi charities are prohibited from transferring money abroad and cannot operate abroad except through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre or the Saudi Red Crescent, which is a semi-government entity.
"Saudi Arabia has been at the forefront of fighting the spread of extremism and terrorism at home and abroad."
The Henry Jackson Society said a clear and growing link can be drawn between overseas money, which mainly comes from Saudi Arabia, and the recent wave of attacks in the UK and Europe.
But Saudi Arabia's UK embassy has labelled the claim "categorically false".
Tom Wilson, who wrote the right-leaning Henry Jackson Society's report, said: "While entities from across the Gulf and Iran have been guilty of advancing extremism, those in Saudi Arabia are undoubtedly at the top of the list.
"Research indicates that some Saudi individuals and foundations have been apparently heavily involved in exporting an illiberal, bigoted Wahhabi ideology."
The think-tank has called for a public inquiry into the issue.
The kingdom's 60-year campaign to export Wahhabism, a strict interpretation of Islam, has led to support for mosques and Islamic institutions that appear to have links to extremism, the organisation said.
It found there have been "numerous" cases of Britons who have joined jihadist groups in Iraq and Syria whose radicalisation is thought to be linked to foreign-funded institutions and preachers.
The Henry Jackson Society said foreign funding for British extremism comes mainly from governments and state-backed foundations in the Gulf, along with Iran.
Mr Wilson added: "There is a clear and growing link between foreign funding of Islamist extremism and the violent terrorism we have witnessed across the UK and Europe.
"The key now is to get ahead of the issue and find out the full extent of what has been going on. A public inquiry would go some way to informing the debate."
Prime Minister Theresa May, who visited Saudi Arabia earlier this year, has faced accusations she is "kowtowing" to the kingdom by "suppressing" a report into the funding of extremist groups in the UK.
An inquiry was ordered by her predecessor David Cameron in 2015, but reports have suggested the findings may never be published because of the sensitivity of the information regarding Saudi Arabia.
Labour MP Dan Jarvis said the report "sheds light on what are extremely worrying links between Saudi Arabia and the funding of extremism here in the UK" and called on the Government to release the inquiry's report.
A Government spokesman said: "Defeating the evil ideology of Islamist extremism is one of the greatest challenges of our time.
"The Commission for Counter-Extremism, which the PM announced earlier this year, will have a key role to play in this fight.
"We are determined to cut off the funding which fuels the evils of extremism and terrorism, and will work closely with international partners to tackle this shared global threat, including at the upcoming G20 summit."
The Saudi embassy said the kingdom "has not and does not support or fund any group that has direct or indirect links to any terrorist organisation".
It said in a statement: "Accusations that blame the Kingdom for radicalising a small number of individuals are baseless and lack credible evidence. Terrorist ideology knows no nationality, language or borders.
"All charitable donations to educational and religious establishments by the Saudi state are made to registered charities in the UK.
"Saudi charities are prohibited from transferring money abroad and cannot operate abroad except through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre or the Saudi Red Crescent, which is a semi-government entity.
"Saudi Arabia has been at the forefront of fighting the spread of extremism and terrorism at home and abroad."
Angela Merkel attacks Donald Trump's foreign policy stance ahead of G20 showdown
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has condemned Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy, criticising his administration for adapting a “winners and losers” view of the world rather than focusing on cooperation.
Ms Merkel – who no longer considers the US a friend based on her political party’s campaign material – is set to meet with Mr Trump later this week at a summit in Germany with 20 global leaders. But in the days ahead of their trip to Hamburg, the German Chancellor has set herself up for potential clashes with the US President over climate change and free trade.
Mr Trump has been widely criticised for his anti-globalisation policies that are focused on cementing his “America First” doctrine, such as his withdrawal of the US from the Paris climate change agreement. Meanwhile, his supporters have praised what they see as his commitment to protecting US jobs.
Donald Trump lashes out at China over North Korea trade
“As G20 president, it is my job to work on possibilities for agreement and not to contribute to a situation where a lack of communication prevails,” Ms Merkel told Die Zeit weekly.
Ms Merkel – who no longer considers the US a friend based on her political party’s campaign material – is set to meet with Mr Trump later this week at a summit in Germany with 20 global leaders. But in the days ahead of their trip to Hamburg, the German Chancellor has set herself up for potential clashes with the US President over climate change and free trade.
Mr Trump has been widely criticised for his anti-globalisation policies that are focused on cementing his “America First” doctrine, such as his withdrawal of the US from the Paris climate change agreement. Meanwhile, his supporters have praised what they see as his commitment to protecting US jobs.
Donald Trump lashes out at China over North Korea trade
“As G20 president, it is my job to work on possibilities for agreement and not to contribute to a situation where a lack of communication prevails,” Ms Merkel told Die Zeit weekly.
However, she added that differences should not be pushed under the table.
“While we are looking at the possibilities of cooperation to benefit everyone, globalisation is seen by the American administration more as a process that is not about a win-win situation but about winners and losers,” she said.
She added that comments from one of Mr Trump’s security advisers about how the world is an arena, not a global community, contradicted her views.
Germany wants everyone to benefit from economic progress rather than only a few, she said.
Europe must pool its energy, she said, adding that ideas of an economic government for the euro zone and of a European finance minister, put forward by new French President Emmanuel Macron, were “two important thoughts”.
“While we are looking at the possibilities of cooperation to benefit everyone, globalisation is seen by the American administration more as a process that is not about a win-win situation but about winners and losers,” she said.
She added that comments from one of Mr Trump’s security advisers about how the world is an arena, not a global community, contradicted her views.
Germany wants everyone to benefit from economic progress rather than only a few, she said.
Europe must pool its energy, she said, adding that ideas of an economic government for the euro zone and of a European finance minister, put forward by new French President Emmanuel Macron, were “two important thoughts”.
North Korea long-range missile test: Trump slams China
President Donald Trump has hit out at China following North Korea's test of an intercontinental ballistic missile.
The US leader has been attempting to get Beijing to rein in Pyongyang's nuclear programme.
But he pointed to a big rise in trade between China and North Korea as evidence that America should not rely on Beijing.
Mr Trump tweeted: "Trade between China and North Korea grew almost 40% in the first quarter. So much for China working with us - but we had to give it a try!"
The missile test was a "new escalation of threat" to the world, US secretary of state Rex Tillerson has warned.
Image:Kim Jong Un celebrates the launch with military officers
Calling for Pyongyang's "provocative" test to be discussed by the UN Security Council, Mr Tillerson said the White House intends to "enact stronger measures to hold DPRK accountable".
The secretary of state added that the US "will never accept a nuclear-armed North Korea" and said President Trump and his national security team are "continuing to assess the situation".
The missile launch occurred just hours before US Independence Day celebrations and days before G20 leaders were due to discuss steps to rein in North Korea's weapons programme.
In response, US and South Korean soldiers fired "deep strike" precision missiles into South Korean territorial waters.
Military officials said the launches were a show of force to demonstrate US-South Korean solidarity.
:: The North Korea dilemma: Trump's five options
Image:The missile reached an altitude of 2,802km and flew 933km, North Korea claimed
Analysts said North Korea's "landmark" Hwasong-14 missile, which was launched from North Pyongan Province, could reach Alaska.
North Korea said the ICBM reached an altitude of 2,802km (1,740 miles) and flew 933km (580 miles) for about 40 minutes before landing in the Sea of Japan.
Japan's data appeared to back up these claims, with the defence ministry claiming the altitude "greatly exceeded" 2,500km (1,550 miles).
According to North Korean state media, the missile is capable of carrying a "large, heavy nuclear warhead" that can withstand re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere.
The US leader has been attempting to get Beijing to rein in Pyongyang's nuclear programme.
But he pointed to a big rise in trade between China and North Korea as evidence that America should not rely on Beijing.
Mr Trump tweeted: "Trade between China and North Korea grew almost 40% in the first quarter. So much for China working with us - but we had to give it a try!"
The missile test was a "new escalation of threat" to the world, US secretary of state Rex Tillerson has warned.
Image:Kim Jong Un celebrates the launch with military officersCalling for Pyongyang's "provocative" test to be discussed by the UN Security Council, Mr Tillerson said the White House intends to "enact stronger measures to hold DPRK accountable".
The secretary of state added that the US "will never accept a nuclear-armed North Korea" and said President Trump and his national security team are "continuing to assess the situation".
The missile launch occurred just hours before US Independence Day celebrations and days before G20 leaders were due to discuss steps to rein in North Korea's weapons programme.
In response, US and South Korean soldiers fired "deep strike" precision missiles into South Korean territorial waters.
Military officials said the launches were a show of force to demonstrate US-South Korean solidarity.
:: The North Korea dilemma: Trump's five options
Image:The missile reached an altitude of 2,802km and flew 933km, North Korea claimedAnalysts said North Korea's "landmark" Hwasong-14 missile, which was launched from North Pyongan Province, could reach Alaska.
North Korea said the ICBM reached an altitude of 2,802km (1,740 miles) and flew 933km (580 miles) for about 40 minutes before landing in the Sea of Japan.
Japan's data appeared to back up these claims, with the defence ministry claiming the altitude "greatly exceeded" 2,500km (1,550 miles).
According to North Korean state media, the missile is capable of carrying a "large, heavy nuclear warhead" that can withstand re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere.
David Cameron calls austerity opponents 'selfish'
David Cameron has dramatically deepened the Cabinet split on public sector wages by claiming those who want to lift the 1% pay cap are "selfish".
The former Prime Minister, who with George Osborne was the architect of the policy, controversially re-ignited the row among top Tories in a speech in the Far East.
Opponents condemned him for opposing pay rises for groups like nurses and firefighters when - it is claimed - he is now earning up to £100,000 for making speeches abroad.
His remarks, coming just hours before this week's Prime Minister's Questions, will almost certainly also be exploited by the Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn in his weekly Commons clash with Theresa May.
Speaking at an Asia Leadership Conference in Seoul, South Korea, Mr Cameron said: "The opponents of so-called austerity couch their arguments in a way that make them sound generous and compassionate.
"They seek to paint the supporters of sound finances as selfish, or uncaring. The exact reverse is true.
"Giving up on sound finances isn't being generous, it's being selfish: spending money today that you may need tomorrow."
:: Cabinet ministers pile pressure on Theresa May to ease austerity
His attack was no doubt aimed at Cabinet Brexiteers Boris Johnson and Michael Gove, who have led calls to scrap the public sector cap, and was immediately condemned by the Conservatives' political opponents.
Mr Cameron's comments also reveal the extent of his bitterness at what his allies regard as their treachery in opposing him in last year's EU referendum, which prompted his immediate resignation as PM after he was defeated.
Earlier this week Mr Osborne published a cartoon in the London Evening Standard, which he now edits, showing the Foreign Secretary jumping on an anti-austerity bandwagon being pulled by Mr Corbyn.
Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell led the backlash against the former PM, declaring: "Only David Cameron would say that hard working people seeing their living standards fall back and their pay suppressed is good for them.
"It just further shows how out of touch he was then, and still remains today.
"The austerity measures such as the public sector pay cuts that he brought in, which Theresa May has continued, were meant to divide communities and undermine working people.
The former Prime Minister, who with George Osborne was the architect of the policy, controversially re-ignited the row among top Tories in a speech in the Far East.
Opponents condemned him for opposing pay rises for groups like nurses and firefighters when - it is claimed - he is now earning up to £100,000 for making speeches abroad.
His remarks, coming just hours before this week's Prime Minister's Questions, will almost certainly also be exploited by the Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn in his weekly Commons clash with Theresa May.
Speaking at an Asia Leadership Conference in Seoul, South Korea, Mr Cameron said: "The opponents of so-called austerity couch their arguments in a way that make them sound generous and compassionate.
"They seek to paint the supporters of sound finances as selfish, or uncaring. The exact reverse is true.
"Giving up on sound finances isn't being generous, it's being selfish: spending money today that you may need tomorrow."
:: Cabinet ministers pile pressure on Theresa May to ease austerity
His attack was no doubt aimed at Cabinet Brexiteers Boris Johnson and Michael Gove, who have led calls to scrap the public sector cap, and was immediately condemned by the Conservatives' political opponents.
Mr Cameron's comments also reveal the extent of his bitterness at what his allies regard as their treachery in opposing him in last year's EU referendum, which prompted his immediate resignation as PM after he was defeated.
Earlier this week Mr Osborne published a cartoon in the London Evening Standard, which he now edits, showing the Foreign Secretary jumping on an anti-austerity bandwagon being pulled by Mr Corbyn.
Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell led the backlash against the former PM, declaring: "Only David Cameron would say that hard working people seeing their living standards fall back and their pay suppressed is good for them.
"It just further shows how out of touch he was then, and still remains today.
"The austerity measures such as the public sector pay cuts that he brought in, which Theresa May has continued, were meant to divide communities and undermine working people.
Tuesday, July 4, 2017
North Korea claims first intercontinental ballistic missile launch
North Korea claims to have successfully tested its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) - contradicting US and South Korean officials who earlier said it was an intermediate-range missile.
The latest in a series of test-firings appears to be the secretive state's longest-range ballistic missile launch to date - and comes as America prepared to mark its independence day.
US weapons analysts said the missile was capable of reaching Alaska, as US President Donald Trump urged China to "end this nonsense once and for all".
In January, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boasted the country was in the final stages of preparing to test launch its first ICBM - a further step towards his declared goal of a nuclear weapons system capable of hitting the US mainland.
"It won't happen," Mr Trump vowed at the time.
If Tuesday's launch is confirmed as an ICBM, it would be considered a game-changer by countries looking to check North Korea's attempts to build a nuclear-tipped missile that could reach the United States.
The "landmark" Hwasong-14 missile launch from Pyongyang's North Phyongan province was overseen by Mr Kim, state TV said.
A female broadcaster proclaimed the North "a strong nuclear power state" which had "a very powerful ICBM that can strike any place in the world".
It reached an altitude of 2,802km (1,740 miles) and flew 933km (580 miles) for about 40 minutes before landing in the Sea of Japan in the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
South Korean President Moon Jae-in said: "We assume it a medium long-range ballistic missile. But we still plan to devise necessary measures assuming it may have been an ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile).
"If it is ICBM, we will need to come up with the corresponding measures."
The latest in a series of test-firings appears to be the secretive state's longest-range ballistic missile launch to date - and comes as America prepared to mark its independence day.
US weapons analysts said the missile was capable of reaching Alaska, as US President Donald Trump urged China to "end this nonsense once and for all".
In January, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boasted the country was in the final stages of preparing to test launch its first ICBM - a further step towards his declared goal of a nuclear weapons system capable of hitting the US mainland.
"It won't happen," Mr Trump vowed at the time.
If Tuesday's launch is confirmed as an ICBM, it would be considered a game-changer by countries looking to check North Korea's attempts to build a nuclear-tipped missile that could reach the United States.
The "landmark" Hwasong-14 missile launch from Pyongyang's North Phyongan province was overseen by Mr Kim, state TV said.
A female broadcaster proclaimed the North "a strong nuclear power state" which had "a very powerful ICBM that can strike any place in the world".
It reached an altitude of 2,802km (1,740 miles) and flew 933km (580 miles) for about 40 minutes before landing in the Sea of Japan in the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
South Korean President Moon Jae-in said: "We assume it a medium long-range ballistic missile. But we still plan to devise necessary measures assuming it may have been an ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile).
"If it is ICBM, we will need to come up with the corresponding measures."
Grenfell Tower fire inquiry head Sir Martin Moore-Bick 'to increase probe's scope'
The chair of the Grenfell Tower fire inquiry is reportedly prepared to increase the scope of his investigation and consider the "broad" causes of the blaze.
Campaigners have called for Sir Martin Moore-Bick to be replacedafter he said the inquiry would be "pretty well limited" to examining the causes of the fire, how it spread and how to prevent similar fires in future.
However, a source told the Press Association the retired judge was also looking to examine issues tracing back to building regulations at the time the block was erected.
"He is very happy to look at why there were warnings that weren't listened to, these were the allegations," the source said.
Campaigners have called for Sir Martin Moore-Bick to be replacedafter he said the inquiry would be "pretty well limited" to examining the causes of the fire, how it spread and how to prevent similar fires in future.
However, a source told the Press Association the retired judge was also looking to examine issues tracing back to building regulations at the time the block was erected.
"He is very happy to look at why there were warnings that weren't listened to, these were the allegations," the source said.
Narendra Modi to become first Indian PM to visit Israel
Narendra Modi will become the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel when he arrives on Tuesday.
Mr Modi, who recently said India and the Jewish state share a "deep and centuries-old" connection, is expected to agree military and cyber security deals.
Observers note he will not travel to Ramallah or meet Palestinian leaders, as visiting dignitaries often do.
The visit is seen by some as a turning point on India's position on Israel.
Here is what the focus will be on over the next three days:
Defence deals will be top of the agenda
For years, Israel and India have been working closely together on counter-terrorism and defence issues and India has been a regular customer of arms from the Jewish state.
Working to modernise its military to counter China and Pakistan, India is now Israel's biggest arms market, thought to be worth about $1bn (£770,000) per year, according to Reuters news agency.
Mr Modi, who recently said India and the Jewish state share a "deep and centuries-old" connection, is expected to agree military and cyber security deals.
Observers note he will not travel to Ramallah or meet Palestinian leaders, as visiting dignitaries often do.
The visit is seen by some as a turning point on India's position on Israel.
Here is what the focus will be on over the next three days:
Defence deals will be top of the agenda
For years, Israel and India have been working closely together on counter-terrorism and defence issues and India has been a regular customer of arms from the Jewish state.
Working to modernise its military to counter China and Pakistan, India is now Israel's biggest arms market, thought to be worth about $1bn (£770,000) per year, according to Reuters news agency.
Monday, July 3, 2017
YouTube Star Stevie Ryan Dies at 33
YouTube star Stevie Ryan died over the weekend in her Los Angeles home, in what authorities have ruled a suicide.
The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office ruled Ryan's death on Saturday a suicide by hanging. Ryan, who was 33, became known for her Little LocaYouTube series and celebrity impersonations. She starred in the VH1 comedy series Stevie TV and was a co-host on Brody Jenner's talk show Sex with Brody.
Ryan had spoken out in recent days about the death of her grandfather.
"The man of my dreams will now only be in my dreams. I'll miss you everyday, forever. I love you my Pa," she said in a Twitter post on Friday.
Ryan hosted a podcast about depression, called Mentally Ch(ill). In a recent episode, she also discussed her grandfather's death.
“I’m just worried that this is going to send me into a deeper depression,” she said during the episode, according to People.
The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office ruled Ryan's death on Saturday a suicide by hanging. Ryan, who was 33, became known for her Little LocaYouTube series and celebrity impersonations. She starred in the VH1 comedy series Stevie TV and was a co-host on Brody Jenner's talk show Sex with Brody.
Ryan had spoken out in recent days about the death of her grandfather.
"The man of my dreams will now only be in my dreams. I'll miss you everyday, forever. I love you my Pa," she said in a Twitter post on Friday.
Ryan hosted a podcast about depression, called Mentally Ch(ill). In a recent episode, she also discussed her grandfather's death.
“I’m just worried that this is going to send me into a deeper depression,” she said during the episode, according to People.
Maria Menounos battles brain tumor
Maria Menounos announced on Monday that she will step down as co-anchor of E! News after she was diagnosed with a brain tumor.
The 39-year-old has held the position since 2015 after she joined the network in 2014.
“Our thoughts and support go out to Maria and her family and we wish them all the best knowing that Maria will tackle this with the same fierce dedication she is known for,” said Adam Stotsky, president of E! Entertainment. “We are grateful for Maria’s many contributions to E! over the past three years.”
The 39-year-old has held the position since 2015 after she joined the network in 2014.
“Our thoughts and support go out to Maria and her family and we wish them all the best knowing that Maria will tackle this with the same fierce dedication she is known for,” said Adam Stotsky, president of E! Entertainment. “We are grateful for Maria’s many contributions to E! over the past three years.”
Donald Trump offers to 'help' terminally ill toddler Charlie Gard
Donald Trump has made an unexpected intervention in the debate over terminally ill toddler Charlie Gard.
The US President said he would be "delighted" to "help" the boy after doctors won a definitive court case to end his life-support treatment.
Charlie suffers from a rare genetic condition and has brain damage.
Mr Trump waded into the debate by referencing Pope Francis' plea for the toddler's parents to be allowed to "accompany and treat their child until the end".
The US President wrote on Twitter: "If we can help little #CharlieGard, as per our friends in the U.K. and the Pope, we would be delighted to do so."
Image:Donald Trump at a meeting with South Korea's Moon Jae-in on 30 June, 2017.
After, Charlie's parents Connie Yates and Chris Gard posted a link to the tweet on their campaign Facebook page with heart emojis and the message: "If he's still fighting, we're still fighting!!! Xxx."
The pair had raised £1.3m in donations to fly Charlie to the US for treatment known as nucleoside bypass therapy.
But medics at Great Ormond Street Hospital fought the bid, saying the operation was experimental and would not help him.
Judges in the High Court, Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court ruled against the parents and in favour of the doctors.
On Tuesday, the European Court of Human Rights refused to intervene.
Image:Connie Yates and Chris Gard with their son Charlie Gard
Mr Gard and Ms Yates said afterwards that they were told Charlie would have his life support switched off on Friday.
The pair claimed they were denied their final wish to take him home to die.
The US President said he would be "delighted" to "help" the boy after doctors won a definitive court case to end his life-support treatment.
Charlie suffers from a rare genetic condition and has brain damage.
Mr Trump waded into the debate by referencing Pope Francis' plea for the toddler's parents to be allowed to "accompany and treat their child until the end".
The US President wrote on Twitter: "If we can help little #CharlieGard, as per our friends in the U.K. and the Pope, we would be delighted to do so."
Image:Donald Trump at a meeting with South Korea's Moon Jae-in on 30 June, 2017.After, Charlie's parents Connie Yates and Chris Gard posted a link to the tweet on their campaign Facebook page with heart emojis and the message: "If he's still fighting, we're still fighting!!! Xxx."
The pair had raised £1.3m in donations to fly Charlie to the US for treatment known as nucleoside bypass therapy.
But medics at Great Ormond Street Hospital fought the bid, saying the operation was experimental and would not help him.
Judges in the High Court, Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court ruled against the parents and in favour of the doctors.
On Tuesday, the European Court of Human Rights refused to intervene.
Image:Connie Yates and Chris Gard with their son Charlie GardMr Gard and Ms Yates said afterwards that they were told Charlie would have his life support switched off on Friday.
The pair claimed they were denied their final wish to take him home to die.
Huge gun haul heading for UK stopped at Channel Tunnel
Seventy-nine viable guns have been discovered in a vehicle which was about to enter Britain.
Border Force officers seized the weapons, along with ammunition, from the vehicle's trailer on the French side of the Channel Tunnel at Coquelles, near Calais.
The 4mm and 6mm handguns and bullets were hidden in specially adapted engine blocks.
Image:Two men have been charged in connection with the raid
Officers were acting on intelligence gathered over a number of days.
Two men, Janusz Michek, 59, and Denis Kolencukov, 23, have been charged in connection with the raid, which was part of a joint operation by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and detectives from Scotland Yard's organised crime unit.
Michek, a Polish national, was one of seven people in the vehicle and was held at the scene.
Image:The vehicle was stopped in France as it prepared to enter Britain
Kolencukov, originally from the Czech Republic but residing in Slough, was arrested as he arrived in Dover from Dunkirk.
The pair were charged with two firearms offences and remanded in custody after appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates Court.
No further action will be taken against six Polish nationals arrested in Coquelles - four women aged 58, 41, 17 and 15 and two men aged 26 and 22.
Image:Officers carried out the raid acting on intelligence gathered over a number of days
Graham Gardner, the NCA's deputy director of investigations, said: "Our recent threat assessment highlights that handguns are still commonly favoured by some criminal groups in the UK.
"They may not be the largest firearm, but they are easily concealable and lethal in the hands of anyone prepared to use them."
Detective Chief Superintendent Michael Gallagher, from the organised crime unit, said: "I have no doubt that a number of these weapons were destined for the streets of London, where they would have caused misery and unspeakable damage to the community."
Border Force officers seized the weapons, along with ammunition, from the vehicle's trailer on the French side of the Channel Tunnel at Coquelles, near Calais.
The 4mm and 6mm handguns and bullets were hidden in specially adapted engine blocks.
Image:Two men have been charged in connection with the raidOfficers were acting on intelligence gathered over a number of days.
Two men, Janusz Michek, 59, and Denis Kolencukov, 23, have been charged in connection with the raid, which was part of a joint operation by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and detectives from Scotland Yard's organised crime unit.
Michek, a Polish national, was one of seven people in the vehicle and was held at the scene.
Image:The vehicle was stopped in France as it prepared to enter BritainKolencukov, originally from the Czech Republic but residing in Slough, was arrested as he arrived in Dover from Dunkirk.
The pair were charged with two firearms offences and remanded in custody after appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates Court.
No further action will be taken against six Polish nationals arrested in Coquelles - four women aged 58, 41, 17 and 15 and two men aged 26 and 22.
Image:Officers carried out the raid acting on intelligence gathered over a number of daysGraham Gardner, the NCA's deputy director of investigations, said: "Our recent threat assessment highlights that handguns are still commonly favoured by some criminal groups in the UK.
"They may not be the largest firearm, but they are easily concealable and lethal in the hands of anyone prepared to use them."
Detective Chief Superintendent Michael Gallagher, from the organised crime unit, said: "I have no doubt that a number of these weapons were destined for the streets of London, where they would have caused misery and unspeakable damage to the community."
President Donald Trump's most memorable tweets
Donald Trump is more attached to his Twitter account that any US president since the social media website's invention.
Whether it is advertising his latest appearance on Fox and Friends, railing against the "Fake News Media", or his regular refrain of "Make America Great Again" (tweeted in caps, of course), barely a day goes by when this President doesn't tweet.
Among his most controversial recently is the tweet of a clip showing him punching a person with a CNN logo on his face before walking away unscathed, a tweet that some have said promotes violence against those in the media.
The "Fake News Media" is a regular subject of Mr Trump's tweets - whether it's CNN, print giants the New York Times and Washington Post or, indeed, any media outlet that does not say what he thinks it should.
He abused TV hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, branding him "psycho" and her "crazy" and claimed she was "bleeding badly from a face-lift" when he saw them at his Florida estate in December.
Sometimes his tweets provoke anger, such as his criticism of London Mayor Sadiq Khan in the days following the terror attacks in London.
Mr Trump was widely slammed for taking the Mayor's remarks out of context and for further tweets that appeared to use the attacks to promote his own agenda.
Other times the Trump Tweets spark confusion, such as the bizarre term "covfefe".
He wrote "Despite the constant negative press covfefe". That tweet was later deleted but not before it naturally set friends and foes alike on an excited (but ultimately pointless) search for the word's meaning.
Memes were born and the mystery word even trended but what he meant by tweeting such nonsense was never clarified.
Various celebrities have come in for the Trump Twitter Treatment, among them Arianna Huffington, Sir Alan Sugar and Rosie O'Donnell, who has enjoyed a decade-long feud with The Donald.
Actress Meryl Streep ("overrated") and ex-California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (who was "even worse" on The Apprentice) are among the latest.
He also spreads the fun around other countries, with Germany especially coming in for criticism for not paying up defence-wise. He also hit out at Sweden for its immigration programme.
Rapper Snoop Dogg shot a toy gun at his likeness in a music video and Mr Trump was having none of it.
And, speaking of Mr Trump predecessor, Barack Obama gets accused of making bad deals, spending too much money and, most often, spying on the Trump campaign during the election. Mr Trump thunders: "This is McCarthyism!".
It's no secret that the US President is very proud of his daughter Ivanka. He has used Twitter to praise and protect her, saying that she was "treated so unfairly" by a business that decided to stop selling her fashion brand.
But one of the most common themes of Mr Trump's tweets is America's security.
He praises veterans and the military while occasionally relaying the number of crimes in Chicago for his 33 million followers. He saves most of his frustration (and capital letters) for his comments on the long-running saga of his beloved travel ban. "See you in court!"
Whether it is advertising his latest appearance on Fox and Friends, railing against the "Fake News Media", or his regular refrain of "Make America Great Again" (tweeted in caps, of course), barely a day goes by when this President doesn't tweet.
Among his most controversial recently is the tweet of a clip showing him punching a person with a CNN logo on his face before walking away unscathed, a tweet that some have said promotes violence against those in the media.
The "Fake News Media" is a regular subject of Mr Trump's tweets - whether it's CNN, print giants the New York Times and Washington Post or, indeed, any media outlet that does not say what he thinks it should.
He abused TV hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, branding him "psycho" and her "crazy" and claimed she was "bleeding badly from a face-lift" when he saw them at his Florida estate in December.
Sometimes his tweets provoke anger, such as his criticism of London Mayor Sadiq Khan in the days following the terror attacks in London.
Mr Trump was widely slammed for taking the Mayor's remarks out of context and for further tweets that appeared to use the attacks to promote his own agenda.
Other times the Trump Tweets spark confusion, such as the bizarre term "covfefe".
He wrote "Despite the constant negative press covfefe". That tweet was later deleted but not before it naturally set friends and foes alike on an excited (but ultimately pointless) search for the word's meaning.
Memes were born and the mystery word even trended but what he meant by tweeting such nonsense was never clarified.
Various celebrities have come in for the Trump Twitter Treatment, among them Arianna Huffington, Sir Alan Sugar and Rosie O'Donnell, who has enjoyed a decade-long feud with The Donald.
Actress Meryl Streep ("overrated") and ex-California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (who was "even worse" on The Apprentice) are among the latest.
He also spreads the fun around other countries, with Germany especially coming in for criticism for not paying up defence-wise. He also hit out at Sweden for its immigration programme.
Rapper Snoop Dogg shot a toy gun at his likeness in a music video and Mr Trump was having none of it.
And, speaking of Mr Trump predecessor, Barack Obama gets accused of making bad deals, spending too much money and, most often, spying on the Trump campaign during the election. Mr Trump thunders: "This is McCarthyism!".
It's no secret that the US President is very proud of his daughter Ivanka. He has used Twitter to praise and protect her, saying that she was "treated so unfairly" by a business that decided to stop selling her fashion brand.
But one of the most common themes of Mr Trump's tweets is America's security.
He praises veterans and the military while occasionally relaying the number of crimes in Chicago for his 33 million followers. He saves most of his frustration (and capital letters) for his comments on the long-running saga of his beloved travel ban. "See you in court!"
Gunmen open fire near French mosque injuring eight people
Two men have carried out a shooting near a mosque in Avignon leaving eight people injured, the French prosecutor's office has said.
According to witness accounts, at least two armed men got out of a car around 10.30pm on Sunday near the Arrahma mosque and opened fire.
None of the wounded are said to have life-threatening injuries.
The prosecutor ruled out any connection with terrorism.
"From what we know this evening, the mosque was not targeted. The fact that it happened in the street of the religious establishment was unconnected with it," the prosecutor said.
None of the wounded are said to have life-threatening injuries.
The prosecutor ruled out any connection with terrorism.
"From what we know this evening, the mosque was not targeted. The fact that it happened in the street of the religious establishment was unconnected with it," the prosecutor said.
Sunday, July 2, 2017
Casualties reported as car bombs rock Damascus
A number of people have been killed or wounded after a suicide bombing struck an eastern district of Damascus, according to a Syrian state television report.
It said security forces intercepted three suicide car bombers on Sunday morning, blowing up two at the entrance to the city.
The third was able to enter the city and blew himself up after being surrounded in Tahrir Square, causing several deaths and leaving a number of people wounded.
Syrian state news agency SANA quoted a senior police official saying that "terrorists simultaneously blew up three cars", two of them on the road to Damascus airport southeast of the capital and a third in the eastern Sahat Al-Tahrir district.
"The terrorist bombings killed and wounded several civilians and caused physical damage to the area," the official said.
It was not immediately clear if the two explosions on airport road, at the entrance of the city, were caused by the suicide bombers or if their bombs were detonated by security forces.
Damascus has been spared the large-scale battles that have devastated other major Syrian cities during the country's six-year civil war.
But dozens of people have been killed in bombings, particularly on the outskirts of the capital.
In mid-March, bomb attacks on a courthouse and restaurant in Damascus killed 32 people. They were claimed by the Islamic State group.
That came days after two explosions that left 74 dead in the capital's Old City and were claimed by the hardline Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham alliance, led by the former al-Qaeda affiliate Jabhat Fateh al-Sham.
It said security forces intercepted three suicide car bombers on Sunday morning, blowing up two at the entrance to the city.
The third was able to enter the city and blew himself up after being surrounded in Tahrir Square, causing several deaths and leaving a number of people wounded.
Syrian state news agency SANA quoted a senior police official saying that "terrorists simultaneously blew up three cars", two of them on the road to Damascus airport southeast of the capital and a third in the eastern Sahat Al-Tahrir district.
"The terrorist bombings killed and wounded several civilians and caused physical damage to the area," the official said.
It was not immediately clear if the two explosions on airport road, at the entrance of the city, were caused by the suicide bombers or if their bombs were detonated by security forces.
Damascus has been spared the large-scale battles that have devastated other major Syrian cities during the country's six-year civil war.
But dozens of people have been killed in bombings, particularly on the outskirts of the capital.
In mid-March, bomb attacks on a courthouse and restaurant in Damascus killed 32 people. They were claimed by the Islamic State group.
That came days after two explosions that left 74 dead in the capital's Old City and were claimed by the hardline Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham alliance, led by the former al-Qaeda affiliate Jabhat Fateh al-Sham.
Saturday, July 1, 2017
State officials refuse to turn over voters' sensitive data to Donald Trump's election panel
President Donald Trump is trying to compile a list of voter data from all 50 states by compiling an extensive range of information on American voting habits going back over a decade.
The President’s commission on election integrity sent letters to all 50 states asking for voter names, birthdays, the last four digits of their Social Security numbers, and their voting records from 2006 until today. But, state officials from red and blue states alike are fighting back.
Officials more than 10 states, including Virginia, California, New York, and Kentucky all refused to honour the request for their voter roll data, saying they had an obligation to protect the fairness of their elections.
The White House called the refusals a "political stunt".
“At best this commission was set up as a pretext to validate Donald Trump’s alternative election facts, and at worst it is a tool to commit large-scale voter suppression,” Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat, said.
California Secretary of State Alex Padilla argued that the request would only serve to legitimise the President’s false claims that there was widespread voter fraud in the 2016 election, which Mr Trump says is why he lost the popular vote by nearly three million votes.
“I will not provide sensitive voter information to a commission that has already inaccurately passed judgement that millions of Californians voted illegally,” Mr Padilla said, referring to the President’s claims that Californians voted illegally en-masse. “California’s participation would only serve to legitimise the false and already debunked claims of massive voter fraud by the President, Vice President, and [Kansas Secretary of State Kris] Kobach.”
The President’s commission on election integrity sent letters to all 50 states asking for voter names, birthdays, the last four digits of their Social Security numbers, and their voting records from 2006 until today. But, state officials from red and blue states alike are fighting back.
Officials more than 10 states, including Virginia, California, New York, and Kentucky all refused to honour the request for their voter roll data, saying they had an obligation to protect the fairness of their elections.
The White House called the refusals a "political stunt".
“At best this commission was set up as a pretext to validate Donald Trump’s alternative election facts, and at worst it is a tool to commit large-scale voter suppression,” Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat, said.
California Secretary of State Alex Padilla argued that the request would only serve to legitimise the President’s false claims that there was widespread voter fraud in the 2016 election, which Mr Trump says is why he lost the popular vote by nearly three million votes.
“I will not provide sensitive voter information to a commission that has already inaccurately passed judgement that millions of Californians voted illegally,” Mr Padilla said, referring to the President’s claims that Californians voted illegally en-masse. “California’s participation would only serve to legitimise the false and already debunked claims of massive voter fraud by the President, Vice President, and [Kansas Secretary of State Kris] Kobach.”
Designer Nipples Set to Trend
Too big, too small, uneven and saggy. For years women’s breasts have been met with far-reaching criticism, leading to body issues and unnecessary worry.
But, as if we don’t have enough to contend with, we’re now being asked to reconsider what’s normal when it comes to our nips.
These days it seems no ordinary boob job will do, after one surgeon revealed that he has seen a huge surge in the number of women asking for nipple operations.
In as little as six months, Dr Norman Rowe, a plastic surgeon based in New York City, says that the weekly number of nipple patients has more than quadrupled, from four a week to around 18.
“Nothing is above cosmetic surgery now, people are looking at every detail. It's not enough now to get a breast augmentation or rhinoplasty - women want to fine-tune every element. And these days, that's possible.”
Worryingly, this is a trend that Rowe says is driven by the fashion of celebrities like Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Rihanna wearing sheer tops or dresses that leave their nipples exposed.
As such, he reports women being triggered to ask him for lighter nipples, smaller areolas and more symmetry.
“You see a lot of celebrities now wearing see-through dresses,” he said.
“My patients come in with pictures from magazines of nipples that they want; they want to wear see-through dresses too, and that makes them take a closer look at their nipples.”
In some instances, patients are even asking for more protruding nipples that will show when they go braless.
“For want of a better word, they want headlights,' Dr Rowe explains.
“I've had a number of women tell me that, when they're wearing a bathing suit, they want their nipples to be more prominent.”
While the free the nipple movement remains important to gender equality, it seems that the increased attention to the area has created a whole new area of insecurity for women.
But, as if we don’t have enough to contend with, we’re now being asked to reconsider what’s normal when it comes to our nips.
These days it seems no ordinary boob job will do, after one surgeon revealed that he has seen a huge surge in the number of women asking for nipple operations.
In as little as six months, Dr Norman Rowe, a plastic surgeon based in New York City, says that the weekly number of nipple patients has more than quadrupled, from four a week to around 18.
“Nothing is above cosmetic surgery now, people are looking at every detail. It's not enough now to get a breast augmentation or rhinoplasty - women want to fine-tune every element. And these days, that's possible.”
Worryingly, this is a trend that Rowe says is driven by the fashion of celebrities like Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Rihanna wearing sheer tops or dresses that leave their nipples exposed.
As such, he reports women being triggered to ask him for lighter nipples, smaller areolas and more symmetry.
“You see a lot of celebrities now wearing see-through dresses,” he said.
“My patients come in with pictures from magazines of nipples that they want; they want to wear see-through dresses too, and that makes them take a closer look at their nipples.”
In some instances, patients are even asking for more protruding nipples that will show when they go braless.
“For want of a better word, they want headlights,' Dr Rowe explains.
“I've had a number of women tell me that, when they're wearing a bathing suit, they want their nipples to be more prominent.”
While the free the nipple movement remains important to gender equality, it seems that the increased attention to the area has created a whole new area of insecurity for women.
Thousands march for equal marriage rights in Northern Ireland
Thousands of people marched through the centre of Belfast on Saturday calling for equal marriage rights for the LGBT community.
Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK where same sex couples cannot get married, while the Republic voted gay marriage into law two years ago.
There have been five separate votes on the issue in Stormont, the last of which in 2015 saw the assembly narrowly vote in favour of gay marriage equality.
But the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has vetoed any law change, arguing that they are protecting the "traditional" definition of marriage.
Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK where same sex couples cannot get married, while the Republic voted gay marriage into law two years ago.
There have been five separate votes on the issue in Stormont, the last of which in 2015 saw the assembly narrowly vote in favour of gay marriage equality.
But the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has vetoed any law change, arguing that they are protecting the "traditional" definition of marriage.
Thousands join anti-government protests in UK
Protesters voiced anger over austerity and the recent Grenfell Tower disaster [Shafik Mandhai/Al Jazeera]
London, UK- Activists in the UK have called on Prime Minister Theresa May to stand down at a large demonstration in London.
Thousands attended Saturday's protest, which was backed by senior members of the opposition Labour party, as well as grassroots left-wing groups.
The protests comes as opponents of the Conservative leader try to up the pressure on her newly-formed government, which only received majority backing in parliament after the party formed a pact with the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).
May failed to secure enough seats to form a Conservative government outright in the June general election and was forced to seek agreement with the DUP to guarantee the ability to pass key legislation.
John Rees, a writer and activist with the People's Assembly, which part-organised the protest said he wanted to force the government to call another election.
"No one voted for a government that has to bribe the bigots of the DUP with £1.5bn ($1.95bn) to cling on to office," he told Al Jazeera, adding "Theresa May is on warning: if she isn't gone by the autumn there will be a protest like no other at the Tory party conference in October."
The DUP deal has been criticised for the large sum of money May released to Northern Ireland to secure it, as well as the DUP's ties to unionist militias and socially conservative platform.
The Conservatives say the deal gives the country the "certainty" and stability it requires over the coming years, as Britain leaves the EU.
A woman holds a banner criticising Theresa May and the DUP [Shafik Mandhai/Al Jazeera]
Opponents have also targeted the prime minister over the Grenfell Tower disaster, which killed at least 80 people according to an official estimate that is universally expected to rise.
Critics regard the Conservative party's austerity policies as responsible for the lax safety measures, which led to the deadly fire.
"I feel the Conservatives are responsible for what happened (at Grenfell)," said protester Lottie Bowes, adding: "They (government) have made cuts to social housing and don't care about health and safety rules."
"They've ignored entire sections of the community in this country for too long and now they need to go."
Grenfell inquiry
Conservative figures for their part have rejected the accusations and what they term the 'politicisation' of the tragedy.
The government has called for an official inquiry into the causes of the fire and has ordered checks on other buildings to ensure they are not at risk.
"I am determined that there will be justice for all the victims of this terrible tragedy and for their families who have suffered so terribly," May said earlier this week.
The main beneficiary of the pressure on May has been the Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn, who defied expectation during the election to secure more seats for the party.
Opinion polls that once had his party trailing the Conservatives by up to 25 points, now give Labour a lead of around five points.
May has said the current parliament will last for two years to oversee Brexit negotiations, which will conclude with the UK's departure from the EU in March 2019.
Thousands attended Saturday's protest, which was backed by senior members of the opposition Labour party, as well as grassroots left-wing groups.
The protests comes as opponents of the Conservative leader try to up the pressure on her newly-formed government, which only received majority backing in parliament after the party formed a pact with the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).
May failed to secure enough seats to form a Conservative government outright in the June general election and was forced to seek agreement with the DUP to guarantee the ability to pass key legislation.
John Rees, a writer and activist with the People's Assembly, which part-organised the protest said he wanted to force the government to call another election.
"No one voted for a government that has to bribe the bigots of the DUP with £1.5bn ($1.95bn) to cling on to office," he told Al Jazeera, adding "Theresa May is on warning: if she isn't gone by the autumn there will be a protest like no other at the Tory party conference in October."
The DUP deal has been criticised for the large sum of money May released to Northern Ireland to secure it, as well as the DUP's ties to unionist militias and socially conservative platform.
The Conservatives say the deal gives the country the "certainty" and stability it requires over the coming years, as Britain leaves the EU.
A woman holds a banner criticising Theresa May and the DUP [Shafik Mandhai/Al Jazeera]
Opponents have also targeted the prime minister over the Grenfell Tower disaster, which killed at least 80 people according to an official estimate that is universally expected to rise.
Critics regard the Conservative party's austerity policies as responsible for the lax safety measures, which led to the deadly fire.
"I feel the Conservatives are responsible for what happened (at Grenfell)," said protester Lottie Bowes, adding: "They (government) have made cuts to social housing and don't care about health and safety rules."
"They've ignored entire sections of the community in this country for too long and now they need to go."
Grenfell inquiry
Conservative figures for their part have rejected the accusations and what they term the 'politicisation' of the tragedy.
The government has called for an official inquiry into the causes of the fire and has ordered checks on other buildings to ensure they are not at risk.
"I am determined that there will be justice for all the victims of this terrible tragedy and for their families who have suffered so terribly," May said earlier this week.
The main beneficiary of the pressure on May has been the Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn, who defied expectation during the election to secure more seats for the party.
Opinion polls that once had his party trailing the Conservatives by up to 25 points, now give Labour a lead of around five points.
May has said the current parliament will last for two years to oversee Brexit negotiations, which will conclude with the UK's departure from the EU in March 2019.
New island appears off North Carolina triggering warning to swimmers
A new island has appeared off the coast of North Carolina but people have been warned not to swim there because of the threat of sharks and rip currents.
The sandbar, nicknamed Shelly Island because of its abundance of seashells and pebbles, emerged from the sea in April and has now grown in size to about a mile long and 145 metres wide.
The spit of land cannot be reached on foot and swimmers have been told to stay away because of the potential dangers.
Shelly Island is just off the tip of Cape Point in Buxton and there are sharks and stingrays in the area.
The narrow 15 metre-wide strip of water between the island and the mainland has also formed a "river" that creates a strong rip current, say experts.
Bill Smith, president of the North Carolina Beach Buggy Association, told the Virginian Pilot: "We're worried about shark bites, but we're more worried about drownings."
There could also be hooks from decades of fishing lurking just below the sand.
Image:A 'river' has formed between the island and the mainland. Pic: @chadonkaCape Point is a constantly changing spit of sand of about 100 acres. Sometimes the tip points south and sometimes it points north.
The land shrinks and expands depending on currents and storms and the same forces were likely to have formed the sandbar, according to experts.
Shelly Island could shrink or even disappear by next year, or it could expand and connect to the point.
Anyone who does want to venture there has been advised to go by boat, kayak or paddleboard as they will be more used to the tides and strong currents.
Chad Koczera was one of the first people to explore the newly-formed island on 31 May.
He told CBS News: "We were driving to the Point after a storm to collect shells when we spotted an area we couldn't get to by car."
He then used his drone camera to get a better look at the narrow island and has now posted photos of the sandbar which have gone viral.
Donald Trump ends 'strategic patience' with North Korea
Donald Trump has declared the end to an "era of strategic patience" with North Korea as he vowed to defend the US and its allies against Pyongyang.
Appearing in the White House Rose Garden with South Korea's leader Moon Jae-in, the US President branded North Korea a "menace" with "no respect for human life".
He demanded the rogue state "choose a better path and do it quickly", condemned the country as a "reckless and brutal regime" and said "millions of their own people have starved to death."
Beyond North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile activity, concern in the US has grown recently after the death of Otto Warmbier.
The US student fell into a coma while in North Korean custody and died just days after being returned to the US.
Mr Trump said: "The North Korean dictatorship has no regard for the safety and security of its people or its neighbours and has no respect for human life - and that's been proven over and over again."
He thanked President Moon for offering his condolences over Mr Warmbier's death.
Mr Trump added: "The US calls on nations around the world to implement sanctions and demand that the North Korean regime chose a better path and do it quickly for a better future for its long-suffering people."
Image:Donald Trump met Moon Jae-in at the White House
The meeting between the two leaders on Friday was seen as important both diplomatically and economically.
Mr Trump praised the alliance between the US and South Korea as "a cornerstone of peace and security in a very, very dangerous part of the world".
The US President also accepted an invitation to South Korea later this year.
Mr Trump vowed to start reducing the US trade deficit by renegotiating a trade deal with South Korea.
The US had a $27.6bn trade deficit with South Korea last year and Mr Trump said: "We cannot allow that to continue. That's not a good deal."
The two leaders did not take questions, marking the second consecutive foreign visit where Mr Trump has not taken questions alongside a world leader he is hosting at the White House.
Mr Moon's visit to Washington DC came after Mr Trump approved a series of measures designed to ratchet up pressure on North Korea, while also sending signals to China about America's declining patience over efforts to tackle Pyongyang.
On Thursday, the Treasury Department imposed new sanctions on a Chinese bank, while the State Department approved a $1bn arms deal with Taiwan.
Both moves appeared aimed at unsettling China, with the US having repeatedly urged Beijing to pressure North Korea into changing its behaviour.
Appearing in the White House Rose Garden with South Korea's leader Moon Jae-in, the US President branded North Korea a "menace" with "no respect for human life".
He demanded the rogue state "choose a better path and do it quickly", condemned the country as a "reckless and brutal regime" and said "millions of their own people have starved to death."
Beyond North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile activity, concern in the US has grown recently after the death of Otto Warmbier.
The US student fell into a coma while in North Korean custody and died just days after being returned to the US.
Mr Trump said: "The North Korean dictatorship has no regard for the safety and security of its people or its neighbours and has no respect for human life - and that's been proven over and over again."
He thanked President Moon for offering his condolences over Mr Warmbier's death.
Mr Trump added: "The US calls on nations around the world to implement sanctions and demand that the North Korean regime chose a better path and do it quickly for a better future for its long-suffering people."
Image:Donald Trump met Moon Jae-in at the White HouseThe meeting between the two leaders on Friday was seen as important both diplomatically and economically.
Mr Trump praised the alliance between the US and South Korea as "a cornerstone of peace and security in a very, very dangerous part of the world".
The US President also accepted an invitation to South Korea later this year.
Mr Trump vowed to start reducing the US trade deficit by renegotiating a trade deal with South Korea.
The US had a $27.6bn trade deficit with South Korea last year and Mr Trump said: "We cannot allow that to continue. That's not a good deal."
The two leaders did not take questions, marking the second consecutive foreign visit where Mr Trump has not taken questions alongside a world leader he is hosting at the White House.
Mr Moon's visit to Washington DC came after Mr Trump approved a series of measures designed to ratchet up pressure on North Korea, while also sending signals to China about America's declining patience over efforts to tackle Pyongyang.
On Thursday, the Treasury Department imposed new sanctions on a Chinese bank, while the State Department approved a $1bn arms deal with Taiwan.
Both moves appeared aimed at unsettling China, with the US having repeatedly urged Beijing to pressure North Korea into changing its behaviour.
Arkansas nightclub shooting: at least 17 injured after gunman opens fire
At least 17 people have been left injured after a gunman opened fire at a nightclub in Little Rock, Arkansas, according to police.
Officers said via Twitter that all the victims at the Power Lounge are alive and one who was previously listed in critical condition is now stable.
#UPDATE as of now ALL 17 confirmed shooting victims are alive. We will provide additional updates as needed.
Officers said via Twitter that all the victims at the Power Lounge are alive and one who was previously listed in critical condition is now stable.
#UPDATE as of now ALL 17 confirmed shooting victims are alive. We will provide additional updates as needed.
David Davis and Boris Johnson 'want PM to loosen Brexit stance'
A former top aide to David Davis has suggested the Brexit Secretary wants Theresa May to scrap her "red lines" on Britain's EU exit.
Despite her General Election disaster, the Prime Minister has stuck to her Brexit plan's hardline stance on leaving the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) and gaining full control over immigration.
But it has been claimed two of the most senior members of her Cabinet want Mrs May to soften her position because it is making Brexit negotiations "very difficult".
James Chapman, Mr Davis' chief of staff until the General Election, described how both his former boss and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson might be keen for the Prime Minister to rethink her Brexit vision.
Where Mrs May has taken "absolutist positions on particular issues", such as the ECJ, Mr Chapman said the Prime Minister had "hamstrung" the UK in exit talks with the EU.
He suggested Mrs May had "set a red line" on the ECJ for the purposes of her Tory party conference speech last year.
Mr Chapman insisted "there isn't anyone better" in Parliament than Mr Davis to negotiate Brexit, telling BBC Radio 4's The Week In Westminster: "He's a very tough, resilient operator.
"There have been red lines that have been set for him, that make the job he has to do very difficult."
Asked if any Brexit-supporters in the upper ranks of Government would want Mrs May to rethink her pre-election Brexit plan, Mr Chapman said: "If you consider the two most powerful Brexiters in the Cabinet; David Davis and Boris Johnson, they're actually pretty liberal on issues like immigration.
"I think that there would be room to recalibrate some of this approach but at the moment she is showing no willingness to do this.
"She said that when she delivered the Lancaster House speech that's the plan and that's what she is sticking to.
"Now this is a new Parliament, there's a new reality. She has to get these things through Parliament. There's an enormous amount of legislation."
He claimed if the Prime Minister doesn't show "more flexibility" and "pragmatism" then "she won't get this stuff through Parliament".
Mr Chapman highlighted withdrawal from the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom), which governs the peaceful use of nuclear energy within the EU, as one area where Parliament was likely to force Mrs May into reversing her position.
He suggested the Prime Minister had committed to leaving Euratom because the treaty is governed by the ECJ and allows the free movement of nuclear scientists.
Mr Chapman said: "We're withdrawing from it because of this absolutist position on the European Court."
Despite her General Election disaster, the Prime Minister has stuck to her Brexit plan's hardline stance on leaving the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) and gaining full control over immigration.
But it has been claimed two of the most senior members of her Cabinet want Mrs May to soften her position because it is making Brexit negotiations "very difficult".
James Chapman, Mr Davis' chief of staff until the General Election, described how both his former boss and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson might be keen for the Prime Minister to rethink her Brexit vision.
Where Mrs May has taken "absolutist positions on particular issues", such as the ECJ, Mr Chapman said the Prime Minister had "hamstrung" the UK in exit talks with the EU.
He suggested Mrs May had "set a red line" on the ECJ for the purposes of her Tory party conference speech last year.
Mr Chapman insisted "there isn't anyone better" in Parliament than Mr Davis to negotiate Brexit, telling BBC Radio 4's The Week In Westminster: "He's a very tough, resilient operator.
"There have been red lines that have been set for him, that make the job he has to do very difficult."
Asked if any Brexit-supporters in the upper ranks of Government would want Mrs May to rethink her pre-election Brexit plan, Mr Chapman said: "If you consider the two most powerful Brexiters in the Cabinet; David Davis and Boris Johnson, they're actually pretty liberal on issues like immigration.
"I think that there would be room to recalibrate some of this approach but at the moment she is showing no willingness to do this.
"She said that when she delivered the Lancaster House speech that's the plan and that's what she is sticking to.
"Now this is a new Parliament, there's a new reality. She has to get these things through Parliament. There's an enormous amount of legislation."
He claimed if the Prime Minister doesn't show "more flexibility" and "pragmatism" then "she won't get this stuff through Parliament".
Mr Chapman highlighted withdrawal from the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom), which governs the peaceful use of nuclear energy within the EU, as one area where Parliament was likely to force Mrs May into reversing her position.
He suggested the Prime Minister had committed to leaving Euratom because the treaty is governed by the ECJ and allows the free movement of nuclear scientists.
Mr Chapman said: "We're withdrawing from it because of this absolutist position on the European Court."
Gulf crisis: Qatar FM meets UN Security Council
Qatar's foreign minister met with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Friday to discuss the crisis [Reuters]Qatar's foreign minister has asked members of the United Nations Security Council to urge a Saudi-led bloc of states to lift their blockade on the Gulf country, nearly one month after it began.
Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on Friday met with non-permanent members of the Security Council at the Qatari mission to the UN in the US state of New York, urging them to speak out publicly on his country's behalf.
Al Thani told Al Jazeera he gave them "updates on the situation" and urged "all of them to call for a lifting of the blockade on Qatar".
Qatar envoy to UK : Saudi-led blockade is collective punishment
Qatar was "trying to encourage all the parties to enter a serious dialogue to try to put an end to this," the foreign minister said.
The meeting took place one day after Al Thani's visit to Washington DC, "where US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson promised to try to help resolve the gulf crisis," Al Jazeera's Kristen Saloomey, reporting from New York, said.
Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut diplomatic ties with Qatar on June 5 over allegations that it supports "extremism" and is too close to Iran - charges Doha has repeatedly denied.
After more than two weeks, the four Arab countries gave Doha a 10-day ultimatum to comply with a 13-point list of demands in exchange for the end of the anti-Qatar measures.
Friday, June 30, 2017
Morning Joe hosts Mika Brzezinski & Joe Scarborough respond to Donald Trump
Revenge is always a dish better served cold.
TV hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski delayed the start of their vacation to respond to Donald Trump’s misogynistic facelift tweet, claiming that the President is “vicious to women” because he fears them.
“I’m fine,” Ms Brzezinski said. “My family brought me up really tough. This is absolutely nothing for me personally. But I’m very concerned about what this once again reveals about the president of the United States.”
“The president’s tweets, whether they’re personally aimed at me … that doesn’t bother me one bit. It does worry me about the country.”
“It's been fascinating and frightening and really sad for our country,” Ms Brzezinski added. “We're OK,” said Mr Scarborough said. “The country's not.”
When Mr Trump announced he was running for the White House, former congressman Mr Scarborough and co-host Ms Brzezinski, his fiancee, were considered supportive of his bid for the Republican nomination. Mr Trump appeared frequently, on their MSNBC show, Morning Joe, and consider them to be “believers”, if not outright supporters.
But their relationship soured, and took a sharp turn for the worse after Mr Scarborough penned an article in the Washington Post last year expressing concerns about Mr Trump.
This week, Mr Trump sparked widespread outcry when he posted two tweets about the anchors.
“I heard poorly rated @Morning Joe speaks badly of me (don’t watch anymore),” he said.
“Then how come low I.Q. Crazy Mika, along with Psycho Joe, came ... to Mar-a-Lago 3 nights in a row around New Year’s Eve, and insisted on joining me. She was bleeding badly from a facelift. I said no.”
The comments were widely condemned, both by Mr Trump’s opponents and members of the Republican party. Observers - used to Mr Trump’s unprecedented behaviour since he assumed the presidency - said he had crossed yet another red line.
Mr Scarborough and Ms Brzezinski also responded to Mr Trump, with a joint op-ed article in the Post.
“President Trump launched personal attacks against us Thursday, but our concerns about his unmoored behavior go far beyond the personal,” they wrote.
“America’s leaders and allies are asking themselves yet again whether this man is fit to be president. We have our doubts, but we are both certain that the man is not mentally equipped to continue watching our show, ‘Morning Joe’.”
The couple appearance on Friday morning spread over more than half-an-hour. At times, Mr Scarborough's comments veered towards the pompous and sanctimonious.
Yet Ms Brzezinski spoke very candidly, admitting to the facelift operation that Mr Trump had mocked. "I'm very open about it," she said. "I'm very happy about it."
Mr Scarborough claimed he had been told by senior members of Mr Trump’s team they were worried about his mental health. He said they had also been told things they were not able to say on the air.
Ms Brzezinski added: “He has once again shown the world that he can be played, that he can be tweaked, that he can be goaded. “That is what I’m worried about.”
TV hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski delayed the start of their vacation to respond to Donald Trump’s misogynistic facelift tweet, claiming that the President is “vicious to women” because he fears them.
“I’m fine,” Ms Brzezinski said. “My family brought me up really tough. This is absolutely nothing for me personally. But I’m very concerned about what this once again reveals about the president of the United States.”
“The president’s tweets, whether they’re personally aimed at me … that doesn’t bother me one bit. It does worry me about the country.”
“It's been fascinating and frightening and really sad for our country,” Ms Brzezinski added. “We're OK,” said Mr Scarborough said. “The country's not.”
When Mr Trump announced he was running for the White House, former congressman Mr Scarborough and co-host Ms Brzezinski, his fiancee, were considered supportive of his bid for the Republican nomination. Mr Trump appeared frequently, on their MSNBC show, Morning Joe, and consider them to be “believers”, if not outright supporters.
But their relationship soured, and took a sharp turn for the worse after Mr Scarborough penned an article in the Washington Post last year expressing concerns about Mr Trump.
This week, Mr Trump sparked widespread outcry when he posted two tweets about the anchors.
“I heard poorly rated @Morning Joe speaks badly of me (don’t watch anymore),” he said.
“Then how come low I.Q. Crazy Mika, along with Psycho Joe, came ... to Mar-a-Lago 3 nights in a row around New Year’s Eve, and insisted on joining me. She was bleeding badly from a facelift. I said no.”
The comments were widely condemned, both by Mr Trump’s opponents and members of the Republican party. Observers - used to Mr Trump’s unprecedented behaviour since he assumed the presidency - said he had crossed yet another red line.
Mr Scarborough and Ms Brzezinski also responded to Mr Trump, with a joint op-ed article in the Post.
“President Trump launched personal attacks against us Thursday, but our concerns about his unmoored behavior go far beyond the personal,” they wrote.
“America’s leaders and allies are asking themselves yet again whether this man is fit to be president. We have our doubts, but we are both certain that the man is not mentally equipped to continue watching our show, ‘Morning Joe’.”
The couple appearance on Friday morning spread over more than half-an-hour. At times, Mr Scarborough's comments veered towards the pompous and sanctimonious.
Yet Ms Brzezinski spoke very candidly, admitting to the facelift operation that Mr Trump had mocked. "I'm very open about it," she said. "I'm very happy about it."
Mr Scarborough claimed he had been told by senior members of Mr Trump’s team they were worried about his mental health. He said they had also been told things they were not able to say on the air.
Ms Brzezinski added: “He has once again shown the world that he can be played, that he can be tweaked, that he can be goaded. “That is what I’m worried about.”
Quran for proof that Islam is a peaceful religion
The so-called Jihadi groups, which consist of extremist Muslims of every faction: ranging from Salafis, Wahhabis, Al-Qaeda, Taliban, Isis and many more, consider themselves as advocates of True Islam. These terrorists claim that the Paris, London and New York attacks are supported and justified by the Quran.
Meanwhile, the majority of Muslims condemn those atrocities.
For those on the outside of the debate, this may seem like a confusing situation. Which side speaks the truth? Is Islam a dangerous religion?
Here are the reasons why the Quran doesn’t support the actions of terrorist groups both in the reasons for waging war and what it is appropriate to do when there is defensive justification for war.
To be frank, God does give conditional permission for Muslims to wage war; however there are strict guidelines for this which jihadists do not adhere to.
Here are some of the terms and conditions: first, Muslims cannot pre-emptively initiate a war. They are only allowed to act in defense. Muslims have permission from God to fight back only when they are expelled from their houses or lands. War can be waged if there is a situation where defenseless people are under attack and ask their Muslim allies for help. The last reason for a just war is when war breaks out between two groups of believers and one party does not intend to stop it in spite of a proposed truce.
Even for battles and fights, the Quran has set limitations and frameworks. If the enemy proposes peace, Muslims should immediately stop the war. Second, Muslims are not allowed to transgress the divine justice: “fight for the cause of God, those who fight you, but do not transgress, for God does not love the transgressors.” The idea of unrestricted, apocalyptic warfare as proposed by Isis is totally un-Islamic. Third, Muslims have to treat prisoners of war with honour, not behead them, as seen recently in the bloody propaganda videos spread by the so called Islamic state. Prisoners should be released after the war, either in exchange for Muslims captives or only as a favour. Also Muslims do not have permission to keep prisoners of war, enslave them, or use them as future soldiers. Finally, followers of Islam are not allowed to force their religious beliefs upon their enemies.
According to the Quran, jihadists obliterate one of the most important commandments about relationships with other nations. The Quran indicates that Muslims should not seek hostility towards those who haven’t sought any war against them. The verse mentions that Muslims have to establish mutual relationships with those who have not expelled, nor have helped to expel, Muslims from their lands. Thus it becomes clear that the Quran has not hindered the Muslims from being kind and just toward free-thinkers.
The permission to fight in the Quran mainly has defensive and reactive purpose. A true follower of the Quran is not allowed to initiate a war and even when a just war breaks out Muslims are not allowed to kill innocent people. This is the Islam that many Muslim’s follow; fundamentally it is a guideline for living peacefully alongside people of all other religions and nationalities.
For those on the outside of the debate, this may seem like a confusing situation. Which side speaks the truth? Is Islam a dangerous religion?
Here are the reasons why the Quran doesn’t support the actions of terrorist groups both in the reasons for waging war and what it is appropriate to do when there is defensive justification for war.
To be frank, God does give conditional permission for Muslims to wage war; however there are strict guidelines for this which jihadists do not adhere to.
Here are some of the terms and conditions: first, Muslims cannot pre-emptively initiate a war. They are only allowed to act in defense. Muslims have permission from God to fight back only when they are expelled from their houses or lands. War can be waged if there is a situation where defenseless people are under attack and ask their Muslim allies for help. The last reason for a just war is when war breaks out between two groups of believers and one party does not intend to stop it in spite of a proposed truce.
Even for battles and fights, the Quran has set limitations and frameworks. If the enemy proposes peace, Muslims should immediately stop the war. Second, Muslims are not allowed to transgress the divine justice: “fight for the cause of God, those who fight you, but do not transgress, for God does not love the transgressors.” The idea of unrestricted, apocalyptic warfare as proposed by Isis is totally un-Islamic. Third, Muslims have to treat prisoners of war with honour, not behead them, as seen recently in the bloody propaganda videos spread by the so called Islamic state. Prisoners should be released after the war, either in exchange for Muslims captives or only as a favour. Also Muslims do not have permission to keep prisoners of war, enslave them, or use them as future soldiers. Finally, followers of Islam are not allowed to force their religious beliefs upon their enemies.
According to the Quran, jihadists obliterate one of the most important commandments about relationships with other nations. The Quran indicates that Muslims should not seek hostility towards those who haven’t sought any war against them. The verse mentions that Muslims have to establish mutual relationships with those who have not expelled, nor have helped to expel, Muslims from their lands. Thus it becomes clear that the Quran has not hindered the Muslims from being kind and just toward free-thinkers.
The permission to fight in the Quran mainly has defensive and reactive purpose. A true follower of the Quran is not allowed to initiate a war and even when a just war breaks out Muslims are not allowed to kill innocent people. This is the Islam that many Muslim’s follow; fundamentally it is a guideline for living peacefully alongside people of all other religions and nationalities.
How to Delete your Facebook Account
Mark Zuckerberg kicked off Facebook’s F8 developer conference this week with a keynote detailing a number of his grand visions of the future.
Augmented reality, advanced chat bots and a rather grim-looking social VR app called Spaces are the next-generation products Mr Zuckerberg will use to keep us glued to our screens.
While the social network is a handy tool for staying in touch with friends and organising events, it's become bigger and far more powerful than the site many of us originally signed up to.
Facebook can be and has been called out for a wide range of perceived misdemeanors. In some circles, it's long been viewed as a rather sinister threat to privacy and criticised for its tax practices, but more recent issues, such as the spread of fake news, the site’s approach to illegal content and incredibly disturbing uses of Facebook Live are particularly troubling.
However, for many, it’s simply a colossal waste of time.
Regardless of why you want to cut ties with Facebook, here’s how to deactivate and delete your account now.
Deactivate
Unless you’re absolutely sure you want to get rid of your Facebook account once and for all, we’d recommend going down the deactivation route.
Deactivating your account hides your profile from friends and search, but allows you to resurrect your account – complete with friends, updates, pictures and Likes – if you ever decide to return, simply by entering your login information.
To deactivate your Facebook account:
Click the downwards-pointing arrow in the top-right corner of the screen
Select Settings
Open the Security section
Choose the Deactivate Your Account option at the bottom of the menu
Delete
Deleting your account is a major step, so think it through before committing. Facebook can take up to 90 days to process account deletion requests, but once your account's gone, it’s gone.
Before taking the plunge, it’s well worth downloading a copy of the data Facebook has on you.
To do this:
Click the downwards-pointing arrow in the top-right corner of the screen
Select Download a copy of your Facebook data
Once that’s done, you’re ready to delete your account. Bear in mind, however, that your sent messages will continue to exist even when all other traces of your account are gone.
To permanently delete your Facebook account:
Head to Facebook’s Delete Account page
Select Delete My Account
Augmented reality, advanced chat bots and a rather grim-looking social VR app called Spaces are the next-generation products Mr Zuckerberg will use to keep us glued to our screens.
While the social network is a handy tool for staying in touch with friends and organising events, it's become bigger and far more powerful than the site many of us originally signed up to.
Facebook can be and has been called out for a wide range of perceived misdemeanors. In some circles, it's long been viewed as a rather sinister threat to privacy and criticised for its tax practices, but more recent issues, such as the spread of fake news, the site’s approach to illegal content and incredibly disturbing uses of Facebook Live are particularly troubling.
However, for many, it’s simply a colossal waste of time.
Regardless of why you want to cut ties with Facebook, here’s how to deactivate and delete your account now.
Deactivate
Unless you’re absolutely sure you want to get rid of your Facebook account once and for all, we’d recommend going down the deactivation route.
Deactivating your account hides your profile from friends and search, but allows you to resurrect your account – complete with friends, updates, pictures and Likes – if you ever decide to return, simply by entering your login information.
To deactivate your Facebook account:
Click the downwards-pointing arrow in the top-right corner of the screen
Select Settings
Open the Security section
Choose the Deactivate Your Account option at the bottom of the menu
Delete
Deleting your account is a major step, so think it through before committing. Facebook can take up to 90 days to process account deletion requests, but once your account's gone, it’s gone.
Before taking the plunge, it’s well worth downloading a copy of the data Facebook has on you.
To do this:
Click the downwards-pointing arrow in the top-right corner of the screen
Select Download a copy of your Facebook data
Once that’s done, you’re ready to delete your account. Bear in mind, however, that your sent messages will continue to exist even when all other traces of your account are gone.
To permanently delete your Facebook account:
Head to Facebook’s Delete Account page
Select Delete My Account
Angela Merkel votes against same sex marriage
Angela Merkel has voted against same-sex marriage in Germany because she believes that “marriage is between a man and woman”.
Despite her opposition, the Bundestag voted to legalise equal marriage by 393 votes to 226, and the Chancellor said she hoped the move would improve social cohension.
“For me, marriage in German law is marriage between a man and a woman and that is why I did not vote in favour of this bill today,” she told reporters moments after the historic vote.
“I hope that the vote today not only promotes respect between different opinions but also brings more social cohesion and peace.”
The Chancellor said she supported the bill’s introduction of full adoption rights for same-sex couples – a move she had previously opposed – and was fighting anti-LGBT discrimination.
Despite her opposition, the Bundestag voted to legalise equal marriage by 393 votes to 226, and the Chancellor said she hoped the move would improve social cohension.
“For me, marriage in German law is marriage between a man and a woman and that is why I did not vote in favour of this bill today,” she told reporters moments after the historic vote.
“I hope that the vote today not only promotes respect between different opinions but also brings more social cohesion and peace.”
The Chancellor said she supported the bill’s introduction of full adoption rights for same-sex couples – a move she had previously opposed – and was fighting anti-LGBT discrimination.
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Apple Is Quietly Scrubbing the App Store
Apple has made a small, but important change to its App Store guidelines that could have a profound impact on the apps available in its marketplace.
Following the company's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) earlier this month, Apple changed its App Store review guidelines to now ban "apps created from a commercialized template or app generation service," accordingto TechCrunch, which found the change. In other words, any apps that are made with tools that produce copycat programs could be rejected from Apple's marketplace.
While most apps available to the company's iPhones are originally designed using traditional design tools, like Apple's own XCode program, there are thousands that rely upon templates. In most cases, the template-based apps are designed by developers who don't have formal coding knowledge or simply want to get a program to the App Store quickly to capitalize on a trend. For instance, after the simple game Flappy Bird become an overnight success in the App Store, thousands of clones that used a similar template flooded the App Store in hopes of attracting users to their similar gameplay.
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However, the new App Store guidelines would allow Apple (AAPL, +1.43%) to ban certain apps that egregiously use templates to deliver software. The revised guidelines will ostensibly help Apple manage spam apps that are designed with templates to quickly get programs into the App Store that serve ads or perform unnecessary functions for developer financial gain.
There are several legitimate template-based app services available to users, allowing them to quickly create programs for Apple's iPhone. They include services like PhoneGap and TapJet, as well as Apple's own app suite with IBM, which allows corporate customers to create programs for their operations using pre-defined features.
So far, Apple hasn't targeted those companies, and although the company cites commercialized templates in its new guidelines, it's unlikely it will turn its attention to those services. According to TechCrunch, which has been analyzing the change, Apple has removed "hundreds of thousands" of apps as part of a broader App Store scrubbing over the past year. But Apple has left popular template-based services alone and is instead focusing on less-useful services that quickly produce lookalike apps for users to scam or spam iPhone owners.
For its part, Apple hasn't commented on the how the change might affect developers and users, and the company doesn't share its app removal tally with the public.
Apple did not respond to a Fortune request for comment on the report.
Following the company's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) earlier this month, Apple changed its App Store review guidelines to now ban "apps created from a commercialized template or app generation service," accordingto TechCrunch, which found the change. In other words, any apps that are made with tools that produce copycat programs could be rejected from Apple's marketplace.
While most apps available to the company's iPhones are originally designed using traditional design tools, like Apple's own XCode program, there are thousands that rely upon templates. In most cases, the template-based apps are designed by developers who don't have formal coding knowledge or simply want to get a program to the App Store quickly to capitalize on a trend. For instance, after the simple game Flappy Bird become an overnight success in the App Store, thousands of clones that used a similar template flooded the App Store in hopes of attracting users to their similar gameplay.
Get Data Sheet, Fortune’s technology newsletter
However, the new App Store guidelines would allow Apple (AAPL, +1.43%) to ban certain apps that egregiously use templates to deliver software. The revised guidelines will ostensibly help Apple manage spam apps that are designed with templates to quickly get programs into the App Store that serve ads or perform unnecessary functions for developer financial gain.
There are several legitimate template-based app services available to users, allowing them to quickly create programs for Apple's iPhone. They include services like PhoneGap and TapJet, as well as Apple's own app suite with IBM, which allows corporate customers to create programs for their operations using pre-defined features.
So far, Apple hasn't targeted those companies, and although the company cites commercialized templates in its new guidelines, it's unlikely it will turn its attention to those services. According to TechCrunch, which has been analyzing the change, Apple has removed "hundreds of thousands" of apps as part of a broader App Store scrubbing over the past year. But Apple has left popular template-based services alone and is instead focusing on less-useful services that quickly produce lookalike apps for users to scam or spam iPhone owners.
For its part, Apple hasn't commented on the how the change might affect developers and users, and the company doesn't share its app removal tally with the public.
Apple did not respond to a Fortune request for comment on the report.
French general accused of using fighter jet for weekend commutes to ProvenceHow
The acting chief of the French air force has been accused of using a fighter jet to commute home at weekends.
General Richard Reboul is alleged to have used an Alpha Jet at least 10 times over the last year, flying between his workplace in Bordeaux to his weekend property in Provence.
Flying at its maximum speed of 620mph (1,000kmph), the jet would have been able to complete the 327-mile trip (600km) in just half an hour.
The commute would normally take around seven hours by train, six hours by car or an hour by conventional plane, followed by a 30-minute car ride.
Using around 800l (176 gallons) of fuel per hour, French satirical newspaper Le Canard Enchaine estimated the fighter jet journeys could have cost the air force and French taxpayers tens of thousands of euros over the past year.
The alleged misuse came to light after General Reboul switched to a small military transporter for his trip, along with a pilot and co-pilot, who are said to have dropped him off and returned to collect him on Monday morning, the Canard reported.
France's new defence minister, Florence Parly, has ordered an investigation, saying there would be "consequences" if the alleged "abuse of resources" is confirmed.
General Reboul stepped in as interim air force chief after his superior, General Serge Soulet, died in May.
Alpha Jets are normally used for training purposes and light attack missions, and additionally perform in Patrouille de France, the country's aerobatic display team.
General Richard Reboul is alleged to have used an Alpha Jet at least 10 times over the last year, flying between his workplace in Bordeaux to his weekend property in Provence.
Flying at its maximum speed of 620mph (1,000kmph), the jet would have been able to complete the 327-mile trip (600km) in just half an hour.
The commute would normally take around seven hours by train, six hours by car or an hour by conventional plane, followed by a 30-minute car ride.
Using around 800l (176 gallons) of fuel per hour, French satirical newspaper Le Canard Enchaine estimated the fighter jet journeys could have cost the air force and French taxpayers tens of thousands of euros over the past year.
The alleged misuse came to light after General Reboul switched to a small military transporter for his trip, along with a pilot and co-pilot, who are said to have dropped him off and returned to collect him on Monday morning, the Canard reported.
France's new defence minister, Florence Parly, has ordered an investigation, saying there would be "consequences" if the alleged "abuse of resources" is confirmed.
General Reboul stepped in as interim air force chief after his superior, General Serge Soulet, died in May.
Alpha Jets are normally used for training purposes and light attack missions, and additionally perform in Patrouille de France, the country's aerobatic display team.
Labour seeks to exploit Tory divisions over Brexit
Labour will seek to exploit government division on Brexit today in the final round of House of Commons votes on the Queen's Speech.
Jeremy Corbyn will call for MPs to back a "jobs first" Brexit that delivers the "exact same benefits" as the single market and customs union.
He will hope his amendment to the Government's legislative programme can exploit apparent Tory divisions on whether to prioritise the economy or immigration in the Brexit negotiations.
Labour's wide-ranging amendment also reproduces many of the policies in its manifesto and Mr Corbyn urged MPs of all sides to support it, claiming Mrs May had no mandate for continued austerity.
Mr Corbyn said: "I'm hoping that some Conservatives would recognise that the writing is on the wall for the economics of austerity and the economics of greater inequality.
"I would also hope that the other opposition parties would recognise that what we're saying actually makes good, sound common sense.
"If you want a future that works for all you've got to invest in it. You can't cut your way to prosperity: you invest your way to prosperity."
The Tory minority government has to get through the final vote on its legislative programme on Thursday afternoon.
On Wednesday evening, it defeated a Labour amendment calling for an end to the public sector pay cap by 323 votes to 309, a majority of 14.
Jeremy Corbyn will call for MPs to back a "jobs first" Brexit that delivers the "exact same benefits" as the single market and customs union.
He will hope his amendment to the Government's legislative programme can exploit apparent Tory divisions on whether to prioritise the economy or immigration in the Brexit negotiations.
Labour's wide-ranging amendment also reproduces many of the policies in its manifesto and Mr Corbyn urged MPs of all sides to support it, claiming Mrs May had no mandate for continued austerity.
Mr Corbyn said: "I'm hoping that some Conservatives would recognise that the writing is on the wall for the economics of austerity and the economics of greater inequality.
"I would also hope that the other opposition parties would recognise that what we're saying actually makes good, sound common sense.
"If you want a future that works for all you've got to invest in it. You can't cut your way to prosperity: you invest your way to prosperity."
The Tory minority government has to get through the final vote on its legislative programme on Thursday afternoon.
On Wednesday evening, it defeated a Labour amendment calling for an end to the public sector pay cap by 323 votes to 309, a majority of 14.
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Hero officer describes fight with London Bridge attackers
A hero police officer who fought all three London Bridge attackers with only his baton says there was "instant darkness" when he was stabbed in the head by one of the terrorists.
PC Wayne Marques, 38, had not long begun a night shift when he heard screams.
After spotting customers and bouncers at a nearby bar standing "like deers in the headlights", he knew something was wrong.
Initially he thought it was pub fight or a gang fight "at the most".
But he soon witnessed people being attacked in Borough High Street.
PC Marques said: "I don't remember everything that happened that night. Part of my memory is still in patches.
"I remember being on patrol. Me and my colleague were on London Bridge Street.
"I heard a female's scream. It was definitely a woman's scream. I heard one scream that sort of echoed and made its way up London Bridge Street, on my left hand side.
"So I looked down the street and I couldn't see who was screaming.
"But what did attract my attention is that there is a little restaurant that becomes a club and a restaurant at weekends, called Tito's.
"I remember the bouncers and the people in the queue, the people having a cigarette.
"Every single one of them, they were like statues."
Image:PC Marques fought all three attackers with only his baton
PC Marques continued: "I remember grabbing my baton with my right hand and I racked (extended) it.
"I took a deep breath and I just charged the first one (attacker).
"As I got near him I swung at him with everything I had as hard as I could, straight through his head, trying to go for like a knock-out blow."
He heard the attacker "yelp in pain".
PC Marques, who was stabbed numerous times, had major injuries to his head, left hand and left leg.
He has recovered his sight after being wounded just above the right eye.
Discussing that horrific injury, PC Marques said: "He'd hit me so hard that my right eye went lights out straight away. I just went blind."
He believes the fight, in which he was set upon by all three attackers, lasted for up to 90 seconds.
"The second one and the third one, I was basically fighting left to right," he said, "because I only had one eye so I'm moving left to right, left to right."
At that stage the first attacker stabbed him in the leg.
"I'm thinking, 'S***, there's a knife in my leg while I'm fighting the second one and the third one,"' he said.
After he'd been stabbed in the hand he remembered little except "swinging (my baton) all over the place".
Regarding his injuries, PC Marques said he "didn't realise how badly I was hurt".
He added: "The adrenaline, the fighting, all of that, I could feel what they were doing to me but I couldn't feel it at the same time.
"I could just feel that I'd been cut and hurt."
PC Wayne Marques, 38, had not long begun a night shift when he heard screams.
After spotting customers and bouncers at a nearby bar standing "like deers in the headlights", he knew something was wrong.
Initially he thought it was pub fight or a gang fight "at the most".
But he soon witnessed people being attacked in Borough High Street.
PC Marques said: "I don't remember everything that happened that night. Part of my memory is still in patches.
"I remember being on patrol. Me and my colleague were on London Bridge Street.
"I heard a female's scream. It was definitely a woman's scream. I heard one scream that sort of echoed and made its way up London Bridge Street, on my left hand side.
"So I looked down the street and I couldn't see who was screaming.
"But what did attract my attention is that there is a little restaurant that becomes a club and a restaurant at weekends, called Tito's.
"I remember the bouncers and the people in the queue, the people having a cigarette.
"Every single one of them, they were like statues."
Image:PC Marques fought all three attackers with only his batonPC Marques continued: "I remember grabbing my baton with my right hand and I racked (extended) it.
"I took a deep breath and I just charged the first one (attacker).
"As I got near him I swung at him with everything I had as hard as I could, straight through his head, trying to go for like a knock-out blow."
He heard the attacker "yelp in pain".
PC Marques, who was stabbed numerous times, had major injuries to his head, left hand and left leg.
He has recovered his sight after being wounded just above the right eye.
Discussing that horrific injury, PC Marques said: "He'd hit me so hard that my right eye went lights out straight away. I just went blind."
He believes the fight, in which he was set upon by all three attackers, lasted for up to 90 seconds.
"The second one and the third one, I was basically fighting left to right," he said, "because I only had one eye so I'm moving left to right, left to right."
At that stage the first attacker stabbed him in the leg.
"I'm thinking, 'S***, there's a knife in my leg while I'm fighting the second one and the third one,"' he said.
After he'd been stabbed in the hand he remembered little except "swinging (my baton) all over the place".
Regarding his injuries, PC Marques said he "didn't realise how badly I was hurt".
He added: "The adrenaline, the fighting, all of that, I could feel what they were doing to me but I couldn't feel it at the same time.
"I could just feel that I'd been cut and hurt."
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Donald Trump's bid to replace Obamacare dealt blow as healthcare bill vote delayed
Donald Trump has suffered an embarrassing setback on a key campaign pledge after Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell delayed a vote on his legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
The draft bill was meant to mollify moderates and hardliners in the Republican Party, but opposition quickly mounted on both sides.
The news that 22 million would lose health insurance coverage, from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), dealt a major blow.
The Republican bill now will not be considered until after the Senate's week-long 4 July recess.
There are deep ideological divides in the discussion of the bill.
Image:Trump and members of Congress discuss the Affordable Care Act
For hardline Republicans, the plan did not go far enough.
They demanded states be allowed to waive a ban on insurance companies charging sick people more, and they wanted states to be given the chance to opt out more easily.
Moderate Republicans, however, felt it went too far. They wanted more investment in mental health and addiction programmes.
The draft bill struggled from the outset. Three Republican senators said they would vote against the motion to begin debate before it even hit the Senate floor. With the party requiring 50 votes to push the bill through, it could only afford to lose two. Many more members expressed reservations.
The legislation was drafted in secret and the President largely took a back seat. But minutes before news broke of an imminent delay, the White House scrambled to invite senators to discuss the issues.
A bus waited outside the capitol and at the same time Mr McConnell told reporters he would work to get more on side.
Image:Donald Trump with families whose insurance premiums reportedly rose after the Affordable Care Act
That olive branch came too late for any legislative progress. Mr Trump is learning just how difficult and complicated healthcare is.
Unlike the first House bill, the Senate did not wait for the floor to debate before pulling the plug. The stakes are high and some senators have already said they cannot see themselves being swayed.
Mr Trump will likely try to remind them of their promise to repeal and replace Obamacare, but Republicans are quickly realising that owning healthcare is not easy.
If they win, they know they will still have to spend years defending taking away health insurance from tens of millions of Americans.
But they cannot afford to walk away empty handed. If they struggle to pass this, making headway on tax reform and infrastructure will be even harder.
The draft bill was meant to mollify moderates and hardliners in the Republican Party, but opposition quickly mounted on both sides.
The news that 22 million would lose health insurance coverage, from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), dealt a major blow.
The Republican bill now will not be considered until after the Senate's week-long 4 July recess.
There are deep ideological divides in the discussion of the bill.
Image:Trump and members of Congress discuss the Affordable Care ActFor hardline Republicans, the plan did not go far enough.
They demanded states be allowed to waive a ban on insurance companies charging sick people more, and they wanted states to be given the chance to opt out more easily.
Moderate Republicans, however, felt it went too far. They wanted more investment in mental health and addiction programmes.
The draft bill struggled from the outset. Three Republican senators said they would vote against the motion to begin debate before it even hit the Senate floor. With the party requiring 50 votes to push the bill through, it could only afford to lose two. Many more members expressed reservations.
The legislation was drafted in secret and the President largely took a back seat. But minutes before news broke of an imminent delay, the White House scrambled to invite senators to discuss the issues.
A bus waited outside the capitol and at the same time Mr McConnell told reporters he would work to get more on side.
Image:Donald Trump with families whose insurance premiums reportedly rose after the Affordable Care ActThat olive branch came too late for any legislative progress. Mr Trump is learning just how difficult and complicated healthcare is.
Unlike the first House bill, the Senate did not wait for the floor to debate before pulling the plug. The stakes are high and some senators have already said they cannot see themselves being swayed.
Mr Trump will likely try to remind them of their promise to repeal and replace Obamacare, but Republicans are quickly realising that owning healthcare is not easy.
If they win, they know they will still have to spend years defending taking away health insurance from tens of millions of Americans.
But they cannot afford to walk away empty handed. If they struggle to pass this, making headway on tax reform and infrastructure will be even harder.
Cholera breaks out in IS-Philippines war zone in Marawi
The first cases of cholera have been recorded in emergency shelters for families fleeing the conflict in the southern Philippines city of Marawi.
Almost a quarter of a million people have been forced to leave their homes, as the fight against IS-linked militants enters its second month.
Tens of thousands are now living in crowded evacuation centres, where the regional health secretary told Sky News conditions are "below the threshold of any human being".
The cholera cases have been isolated, but he said there was particular concern over the potential for the spread of Malaria and Dengue Fever, which is known to be a problem in Marawi.
"We want a regular uninterrupted supply of clean water, toilets for them to use, and of course decent living conditions," Kadil Sinolinding, Secretary of Health for Mindanao, told Sky News.
More than three thousand people are living at the centre, we saw four working toilets.
"The evacuation centre is way below the threshold of any human being," Mr Sinolinding said.
"But people content themselves. We are surviving. We are all survivors here."
The small rural clinic where he spoke has become a basic hospital.
We watched as a young boy was rushed in with a head injury.
He had fallen outside in the rain. He needed stitches, but was otherwise okay.
In a quiet corner, a mother sat comforting her son on a camp-bed as he was treated for severe dehydration.
Nearby one-year-old Abdul Salam Acmad was attached to a drip, suffering from diarrhoea, which can be especially dangerous in young children.
The nurses said his family had walked the three miles here from Marawi.
We were told four children died from the symptoms of diarrhoea before they could reach medical help after escaping the city.
Three were two years old or younger.
Almost a quarter of a million people have been forced to leave their homes, as the fight against IS-linked militants enters its second month.
Tens of thousands are now living in crowded evacuation centres, where the regional health secretary told Sky News conditions are "below the threshold of any human being".
The cholera cases have been isolated, but he said there was particular concern over the potential for the spread of Malaria and Dengue Fever, which is known to be a problem in Marawi.
"We want a regular uninterrupted supply of clean water, toilets for them to use, and of course decent living conditions," Kadil Sinolinding, Secretary of Health for Mindanao, told Sky News.
More than three thousand people are living at the centre, we saw four working toilets.
"The evacuation centre is way below the threshold of any human being," Mr Sinolinding said.
"But people content themselves. We are surviving. We are all survivors here."
The small rural clinic where he spoke has become a basic hospital.
We watched as a young boy was rushed in with a head injury.
He had fallen outside in the rain. He needed stitches, but was otherwise okay.
In a quiet corner, a mother sat comforting her son on a camp-bed as he was treated for severe dehydration.
Nearby one-year-old Abdul Salam Acmad was attached to a drip, suffering from diarrhoea, which can be especially dangerous in young children.
The nurses said his family had walked the three miles here from Marawi.
We were told four children died from the symptoms of diarrhoea before they could reach medical help after escaping the city.
Three were two years old or younger.
Sunday, June 25, 2017
London Eye and Waterloo Pier evacuated after authorities find World War-era bomb
Cordons have been lifted after the London Eye and Waterloo Pier were evacuated following the reported discovery of a World War-era bomb.
A spokesman for Scotland Yard has reportedly confirmed authorites have found a bomb from World War I or II in the Thames near the tourist hotspot.
People on the London Eye were told to evacuate immediately.
One Twitter user posted that she had been asked to disembark the London Eye ten minutes after the discovery was found.
"So we barely made it on the #londoneye before everyone was evacuated. News, anyone?"
The official Thames Clipper service twitter account announced that the London Eye Pier had been re-opened after an hour, and apologised for the inconvenience.
It said the boat service would resume as per the timetable.
The area also features the popular London Aquarium and the sites see close to 4 million visitors every year.
A spokesman for Scotland Yard has reportedly confirmed authorites have found a bomb from World War I or II in the Thames near the tourist hotspot.
People on the London Eye were told to evacuate immediately.
One Twitter user posted that she had been asked to disembark the London Eye ten minutes after the discovery was found.
"So we barely made it on the #londoneye before everyone was evacuated. News, anyone?"
The official Thames Clipper service twitter account announced that the London Eye Pier had been re-opened after an hour, and apologised for the inconvenience.
It said the boat service would resume as per the timetable.
The area also features the popular London Aquarium and the sites see close to 4 million visitors every year.
148 dead as Pakistan oil tanker crashes and explodes
At least 148 people - including children - have been killed after an oil tanker carrying 40,000 litres of fuel flipped over and burst into flames on a highway in Pakistan.
Residents had flocked to the tanker with jerry cans, buckets and other containers to collect leaking fuel from it after it overturned.
It was travelling from the southern port city of Karachi to Lahore when the driver lost control and it crashed near the city of Bahawalpur at around 6.30am.
Some reports suggested the tanker had suffered a burst tyre. The driver survived and is in custody.
Image:Large plumes of black smoke could be seen from a distance
Police had tried to seal off the area but became overwhelmed by the scores of people trying to reach the vehicle.
Officials said many of the victims were beyond recognition and that DNA tests were being carried out to identify the dead, adding that the number of fatalities was likely to rise.
The fire erupted after an oil tanker turned over and "victims rushed to collect spilt fuel", senior local government official Rana Mohammad Saleem Afzal told state television.
Image:It took firefighters around two hours to put out the blaze
He said residents were told about the leaking oil tanker over a loudspeaker at a local mosque.
"After about 10 minutes the tanker exploded in a huge fireball and enveloped the people collecting petrol. It was not clear how the fire started," said regional police chief Raja Riffat.
"According to the initial reports, somebody tried to light a cigarette. The spilt fuel caught fire, leading to the tanker's explosion," Jam Sajjad Hussain, spokesman for the rescue services, added.
Officials said around 140 others were injured in the explosion and were airlifted to nearby hospitals by army helicopters, some in a critical condition having suffered more than 80% burns to their bodies.
Image:Around 140 people were injured in the blast and taken to hospital
Flames and large plumes of black smoke could be seen from a distance as firefighters battled the blaze for two hours before it was out.
Witnesses described seeing the charred ruins of up to 30 motorbikes that had carried residents to the crash site.
Almost a dozen other vehicles were also destroyed by the inferno.
The tragedy happened on the eve of Eid ul-Fitr celebrations marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Pakistan.
Image:The oil tanker crashed and burst into flames near the city of Bahawalpur
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed his grief and ordered provincial leaders to ensure victims received "full medical assistance".
Pakistan has a poor record of fatal traffic accidents due to bad road conditions, poorly maintained vehicles and reckless driving.
In 2015, more than 60 people, including children, died when the bus they were travelling in collided with an oil tanker.
Residents had flocked to the tanker with jerry cans, buckets and other containers to collect leaking fuel from it after it overturned.
It was travelling from the southern port city of Karachi to Lahore when the driver lost control and it crashed near the city of Bahawalpur at around 6.30am.
Some reports suggested the tanker had suffered a burst tyre. The driver survived and is in custody.
Image:Large plumes of black smoke could be seen from a distancePolice had tried to seal off the area but became overwhelmed by the scores of people trying to reach the vehicle.
Officials said many of the victims were beyond recognition and that DNA tests were being carried out to identify the dead, adding that the number of fatalities was likely to rise.
The fire erupted after an oil tanker turned over and "victims rushed to collect spilt fuel", senior local government official Rana Mohammad Saleem Afzal told state television.
Image:It took firefighters around two hours to put out the blazeHe said residents were told about the leaking oil tanker over a loudspeaker at a local mosque.
"After about 10 minutes the tanker exploded in a huge fireball and enveloped the people collecting petrol. It was not clear how the fire started," said regional police chief Raja Riffat.
"According to the initial reports, somebody tried to light a cigarette. The spilt fuel caught fire, leading to the tanker's explosion," Jam Sajjad Hussain, spokesman for the rescue services, added.
Officials said around 140 others were injured in the explosion and were airlifted to nearby hospitals by army helicopters, some in a critical condition having suffered more than 80% burns to their bodies.
Image:Around 140 people were injured in the blast and taken to hospitalFlames and large plumes of black smoke could be seen from a distance as firefighters battled the blaze for two hours before it was out.
Witnesses described seeing the charred ruins of up to 30 motorbikes that had carried residents to the crash site.
Almost a dozen other vehicles were also destroyed by the inferno.
The tragedy happened on the eve of Eid ul-Fitr celebrations marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Pakistan.
Image:The oil tanker crashed and burst into flames near the city of BahawalpurPrime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed his grief and ordered provincial leaders to ensure victims received "full medical assistance".
Pakistan has a poor record of fatal traffic accidents due to bad road conditions, poorly maintained vehicles and reckless driving.
In 2015, more than 60 people, including children, died when the bus they were travelling in collided with an oil tanker.
Saturday, June 24, 2017
The Queen reported to West Yorkshire Police for 'not wearing seat belt'
The Queen has been reported to West Yorkshire Police for not wearing a seat belt in the official car for the State Opening of Parliament.
A 999 call was made by someone saying the monarch was not strapped in while being driven through London.
The phone call was confirmed in a tweet by the West Yorkshire force, which added the hashtags #not999 #notevenwestyorkshire.
Civil and criminal proceedings cannot be taken against the Queen in UK law.
Live updates and more stories from Yorkshire
The Queen travelled to Westminster alongside Prince Charles for the formal start of the Parliamentary year.
Her press office said it would not comment on the tweet.
Tom Donohoe, of West Yorkshire Police, said too often 999 calls were made for non emergencies.
"I cannot stress enough that the 999 number is for emergencies only," he said, adding that the force typically received more than 1,000 emergency calls a day.
It has previously published a list of inappropriate 999 calls that have taken up police time, including a fly being in a bedroom and a mouse on the loose.
As for the law regarding seat belts, the government website says: "You must wear a seat belt if one is fitted in the seat you are using."
It adds you can be fined £500 for not doing so, but there are some exceptions such as drivers reversing or a vehicle being used by police, fire or rescue services.
The Royal Family website says "the Queen is careful to ensure that all her activities in her personal capacity are carried out in strict accordance with the law".
A 999 call was made by someone saying the monarch was not strapped in while being driven through London.
The phone call was confirmed in a tweet by the West Yorkshire force, which added the hashtags #not999 #notevenwestyorkshire.
Civil and criminal proceedings cannot be taken against the Queen in UK law.
Live updates and more stories from Yorkshire
The Queen travelled to Westminster alongside Prince Charles for the formal start of the Parliamentary year.
Her press office said it would not comment on the tweet.
Tom Donohoe, of West Yorkshire Police, said too often 999 calls were made for non emergencies.
"I cannot stress enough that the 999 number is for emergencies only," he said, adding that the force typically received more than 1,000 emergency calls a day.
It has previously published a list of inappropriate 999 calls that have taken up police time, including a fly being in a bedroom and a mouse on the loose.
As for the law regarding seat belts, the government website says: "You must wear a seat belt if one is fitted in the seat you are using."
It adds you can be fined £500 for not doing so, but there are some exceptions such as drivers reversing or a vehicle being used by police, fire or rescue services.
The Royal Family website says "the Queen is careful to ensure that all her activities in her personal capacity are carried out in strict accordance with the law".
Insulation boards used on Grenfell Tower block withdrawn by firm
The insulating product used to clad Grenfell Tower before a disastrous fire will no longer be used on high-rise buildings, the manufacturer has said.
Celotex, which manufactures the RS5000 insulation boards used in the block's rainscreen cladding, says it is ceasing supply of the product in buildings over 18m tall immediately.
The firm had previously advertised on its website that "Celotex RS5000... is suitable for buildings above 18m".
The inferno at 24-storey Grenfell Tower in north Kensington left 79 dead or missing presumed dead.
Nine victims have so far been formally identified.
Earlier on Friday, police said tests had been carried out on both the cladding tiles and the insulation used in the refit of the tower and they "don't pass any safety tests".
Officers also revealed that the insulation was also found to be more flammable than the cladding tiles.
Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Fiona McCormack said: "What we are being told at the moment by the Building Research Establishment is that the cladding and insulation failed all safety tests."
Late on Friday, Celotex posted an update on its website that said: "In view of the focus on rainscreen cladding systems and the insulation forming part of them, Celotex believes that the right thing to do is to stop the supply of Celotex RS5000 for rainscreen cladding systems in buildings over 18 metres tall with immediate effect, including in
respect of ongoing projects, pending further clarity."
Celotex, which manufactures the RS5000 insulation boards used in the block's rainscreen cladding, says it is ceasing supply of the product in buildings over 18m tall immediately.
The firm had previously advertised on its website that "Celotex RS5000... is suitable for buildings above 18m".
The inferno at 24-storey Grenfell Tower in north Kensington left 79 dead or missing presumed dead.
Nine victims have so far been formally identified.
Earlier on Friday, police said tests had been carried out on both the cladding tiles and the insulation used in the refit of the tower and they "don't pass any safety tests".
Officers also revealed that the insulation was also found to be more flammable than the cladding tiles.
Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Fiona McCormack said: "What we are being told at the moment by the Building Research Establishment is that the cladding and insulation failed all safety tests."
Late on Friday, Celotex posted an update on its website that said: "In view of the focus on rainscreen cladding systems and the insulation forming part of them, Celotex believes that the right thing to do is to stop the supply of Celotex RS5000 for rainscreen cladding systems in buildings over 18 metres tall with immediate effect, including in
respect of ongoing projects, pending further clarity."
Pentagon releases images of Russian jet buzzing RC-135 spy plane
Photographs released by the US show a Russian SU-27 jet apparently flying within a few metres of an RC-135 spy plane.
The Pentagon accused Russia of carrying out an unsafe intercept of the reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the Baltic Sea earlier this week.
But the photographs released by the US European Command on Friday showed just how close the fighter jet came to the US aircraft.
NATO aircraft are being deployed as part of the organisation's annual Baltic Operations (BALTOPS), a multinational, maritime-focused live training event which first began in 1972, in the region close to Russia's border.
Image:The photographs showed just how close the fighter jet came to the US aircraft
Referring to the 19 June incident, the US military said that "due to the high rate of closure speed and poor control of the aircraft during the intercept, this interaction was determined to be unsafe".
But according to the Russian news agency TASS, it was the RC-135 plane which "made an attempt at approaching the Russian fighter jet making a provocative turn towards it".
CNN reported that there have been more than 30 interactions between US and Russian aircraft near the Baltic Sea since in recent weeks, most of which were "safe and professional" according to a US official.
"The vast majority of interactions we have, intercepts that occur when we fly and that are intercepted by the Russians are safe," said a Pentagon spokesperson.
"This is an exception, not the norm, but we were again operating in international airspace and did nothing to provoke," they added.
The Pentagon accused Russia of carrying out an unsafe intercept of the reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the Baltic Sea earlier this week.
But the photographs released by the US European Command on Friday showed just how close the fighter jet came to the US aircraft.
NATO aircraft are being deployed as part of the organisation's annual Baltic Operations (BALTOPS), a multinational, maritime-focused live training event which first began in 1972, in the region close to Russia's border.
Image:The photographs showed just how close the fighter jet came to the US aircraftReferring to the 19 June incident, the US military said that "due to the high rate of closure speed and poor control of the aircraft during the intercept, this interaction was determined to be unsafe".
But according to the Russian news agency TASS, it was the RC-135 plane which "made an attempt at approaching the Russian fighter jet making a provocative turn towards it".
CNN reported that there have been more than 30 interactions between US and Russian aircraft near the Baltic Sea since in recent weeks, most of which were "safe and professional" according to a US official.
"The vast majority of interactions we have, intercepts that occur when we fly and that are intercepted by the Russians are safe," said a Pentagon spokesperson.
"This is an exception, not the norm, but we were again operating in international airspace and did nothing to provoke," they added.
Friday, June 23, 2017
Twitter users hit back at Saudi-bloc's list of demands
Earlier on Friday, the Saudi-bloc submitted a 13-point list of demands to Qatar [Kacper Pempel/Reuters]Social media users have hit back with humour and their own list of grievances after reports emerged that Saudi Arabia and its allies issued a list of demands.
Almost immediately after the Saudi-led bloc's 13-point list of demands was made public on Friday, some Twitter users began posting their reactions under the hashtag "the list is refused".
Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar on June 5 over allegations the country funds "terrorism" and is too close to Iran - allegations Qatar has repeatedly denied.
Their steep list of demands, published by news agencies on Friday, includes calls on Qatar to shut down Al Jazeera Media Network, close a Turkish military base, scale down ties with Iran, and pay an unspecified sum in compensation.
Qatar now has 10 days to comply, according to the reports.
"Qatar refuses Saudi and the Emirates' conditions and answers them with this voice message," wrote one Twitter user, embedding a man singing an old Gulf song, asking his wife to "take your bag of clothes and leave my house for good" and telling her she has a "long tongue", implying she talks too much.
London Underground superbugs warning prompts deep-cleaning
Parts of the London Underground network will be deep-cleaned every night this summer after dangerous superbugs were discovered.
As part of air quality improvement measures announced by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, the intensified cleaning regime will aim to reduce commuters' exposure to dust and particles.
It comes after researchers at London Metropolitan University found 121 different types of bacteria and mould on public transport in the capital.
Eight of all the bacteria discovered were found to be among the most threatening to human health, with the Victoria Line deemed to be the dirtiest.
Image:1.37 billion passengers travel on the Tube every year
Around 50 Tube stations will be cleaned each night with magnetic wands and industrial vacuum cleaners used to remove dust, oil, grease and metal particles.
Mr Khan said: "I've asked for an updated scientific analysis of pollution on the Tube so we can fully assess the air quality levels and take appropriate measures to ensure that the air is clean."
The movement of trains along rail lines, engineering works and skin particles all contribute to dust on the network.
London Underground managing director Mark Wild said: "As scientific understanding of the effects of particles develops, we are ensuring that we're both using the very latest research and that we're doing everything possible to keep the air underground clean for our customers and staff."
As part of air quality improvement measures announced by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, the intensified cleaning regime will aim to reduce commuters' exposure to dust and particles.
It comes after researchers at London Metropolitan University found 121 different types of bacteria and mould on public transport in the capital.
Eight of all the bacteria discovered were found to be among the most threatening to human health, with the Victoria Line deemed to be the dirtiest.
Image:1.37 billion passengers travel on the Tube every yearAround 50 Tube stations will be cleaned each night with magnetic wands and industrial vacuum cleaners used to remove dust, oil, grease and metal particles.
Mr Khan said: "I've asked for an updated scientific analysis of pollution on the Tube so we can fully assess the air quality levels and take appropriate measures to ensure that the air is clean."
The movement of trains along rail lines, engineering works and skin particles all contribute to dust on the network.
London Underground managing director Mark Wild said: "As scientific understanding of the effects of particles develops, we are ensuring that we're both using the very latest research and that we're doing everything possible to keep the air underground clean for our customers and staff."
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