Mild temperatures could make it the warmest Christmas Day on record, forecasters say.
Areas in the South are expected to reach 15C (59F), pushing close to the record of 15.6C (60F) registered in Devon in 1920.
But while parts of England will be bathed in sunshine, there could be snow in northern Scotland and bookmakers have cut the odds on a white Christmas.
The contrasting weather is the result of Storm Conor, which is pulling mild air behind it as it approaches the north of the UK.
The latest storm will follow Storm Barbara, which caused travel disruption and power cuts in the north of Scotland on Friday.
The Met Office has issued 11 weather warnings for Boxing Day.
The most serious are in place for the Highlands, Orkney and Shetland, where winds could reach 90mph.
Those areas were the worst hit by Storm Barbara, which cut power to more than 25,000 homes.
Met Office meteorologist Chris Page said: "Because of the wind direction from the southwest, Storm Conor brings up some milder air which means temperatures will only drop to lows of 9 (48F) and 10C (50F), making it a very mild start to Christmas day.
"We'll see some clearer, drier spells in Scotland but the sunshine will be in the south and with southwesterly winds dragging up more mild air we could even see some records broken.
"It could maybe reach 15C which could make it the warmest Christmas day of record in the last 100 years.
"For Scotland though, we could still see a touch of snow."
Scotland's Transport Minister Humza Yousaf has chaired a meeting of the Scottish Government's resilience committee to prepare for the impacts of Storm Conor.
He said: "The worst of Storm Conor is once again expected to affect the north of Scotland, the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland, bringing heavy rain and winds of up to 90mph.
"I can assure the travelling public that our transport operators and trunk road operating companies are working hard to keep services and roads running.
"However, safety is always our top priority, so we are seeing likely to see disruption to ferries and possibly flights to the islands. It is important to remember that operators do not cancel services lightly."
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Under-pressure Trump to dissolve charitable foundation
US President-elect Donald Trump says he will be dissolving his philanthropic foundation - the Donald J Trump Foundation - to avoid conflicts of interest once he takes over at the White House.
However, the move has been dismissed by the attorney general office which, in a statement released to US media on Saturday, said Trump could not yet close the foundation because it was still under investigation by New York attorney general Eric Schneiderman.
"The Trump Foundation is still under investigation by this office and cannot legally dissolve until that investigation is complete," Schneiderman spokeswoman Amy Spitalnick said.
Trump's portfolio of US and overseas business interests and holdings, as well as his his philanthropic foundation, have come under increased scrutiny since his election.
"The foundation has done enormous good work over the years in contributing millions of dollars to countless worthy groups, including supporting veterans, law enforcement officers and children," Trump said in a statement.
"However, to avoid even the appearance of any conflict with my role as president I have decided to continue to pursue my strong interest in philanthropy in other ways."
His private foundation has been at the centre of several controversies - including how much money he has actually given it - and is under investigation.
A Washington Post investigation in June said Trump had given just a fraction of the money he had promised to charity, and it was only after public pressure that he made good on a pledge to cough up $1m to a nonprofit group for veterans.
His move to close the foundation comes amid intense criticism of Trump's ethics and transparency choices on the way into the White House.
Trump has pledged to disclose his tax returns but has yet to follow through. He says they are being audited.
On December 15, he was scheduled to hold a news conference to announce plans for his business during his four-year term in office, but it was postponed to an undetermined date in January.
So far the 70-year-old billionaire has said only that his two adult sons, Donald Jr and Eric, would take over and that the company would do no new deals while he serves as president.
Saturday, December 24, 2016
India to build statue twice the size of the Statue of Liberty
India is to build the world's tallest statue - twice the size of the Statue of Liberty.
The proposed 630ft (192 metre) statue of Shivaji, a 16th century ruler from western India, will be built off the coast of Mumbai.
The construction - on land reclaimed from the Arabian Sea - is due to be completed in 2019.
The country's Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the project, expected to cost of 36bn rupees (£430m).
The statue will be more than 100ft higher than the current tallest monument - a 503ft Buddha in Henan province, China.
But the project has attracted significant criticism.
More than 29,000 people have signed a petition asking the government to spend the money on infrastructure and development instead.
"Apart from a waste of money, this statue is going to be terrible for the environment, for the traffic situation in South Bombay and a security nightmare," the Change.org petition said.
It is not the first time a large amount of money has been spent on a statue in India.
In 2014, after Prime Minister Modi was sworn into office, the government set aside £27m in its national budget for building memorials.
Projects currently under way, including one in the Prime Minister's home state of Gujarat, have exceeded their budget ten-fold.
The proposed 630ft (192 metre) statue of Shivaji, a 16th century ruler from western India, will be built off the coast of Mumbai.
The construction - on land reclaimed from the Arabian Sea - is due to be completed in 2019.
The country's Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the project, expected to cost of 36bn rupees (£430m).
The statue will be more than 100ft higher than the current tallest monument - a 503ft Buddha in Henan province, China.
But the project has attracted significant criticism.
More than 29,000 people have signed a petition asking the government to spend the money on infrastructure and development instead.
"Apart from a waste of money, this statue is going to be terrible for the environment, for the traffic situation in South Bombay and a security nightmare," the Change.org petition said.
It is not the first time a large amount of money has been spent on a statue in India.
In 2014, after Prime Minister Modi was sworn into office, the government set aside £27m in its national budget for building memorials.
Projects currently under way, including one in the Prime Minister's home state of Gujarat, have exceeded their budget ten-fold.
Russian jet carrying 91 including famous military band crashes near Sochi
A Russian military jet with 91 people on board has crashed shortly after take-off near Sochi, the Defence ministry said.
The ministry said the plane was carrying the famous Alexandrov military band for a concert at the Russian air base in Syria.
The missing aircraft is a Tu-154, a Soviet-designed three-engine airliner.
It disappeared minutes after take-off over the Black Sea.
Russia's RIA news agency, citing an unidentified security source, said preliminary data indicated the plane had crashed because of a technical malfunction.
It was not immediately possible to verify that report.
The plane had departed at 5:40am local time (0240 GMT) from Adler, south of the Black Sea resort city of Sochi.
It was conducting a routine flight to Russia's Hmeimim airbase outside the coastal Syrian city of Latakia, the ministry said.
Search and rescue groups have now found the crash site, close to the coast, it is being reported.
The Defence Ministry said that there were 83 passengers and eight crew on board.
The ministry said the plane was carrying the famous Alexandrov military band for a concert at the Russian air base in Syria.
The missing aircraft is a Tu-154, a Soviet-designed three-engine airliner.
It disappeared minutes after take-off over the Black Sea.
Russia's RIA news agency, citing an unidentified security source, said preliminary data indicated the plane had crashed because of a technical malfunction.
It was not immediately possible to verify that report.
The plane had departed at 5:40am local time (0240 GMT) from Adler, south of the Black Sea resort city of Sochi.
It was conducting a routine flight to Russia's Hmeimim airbase outside the coastal Syrian city of Latakia, the ministry said.
Search and rescue groups have now found the crash site, close to the coast, it is being reported.
The Defence Ministry said that there were 83 passengers and eight crew on board.
Israel hits back after UN resolution condemns settlements
Israel has hit back at the US after it allowed a vote to pass in the UN Security Council demanding an end to the building of settlements on occupied territory.
The vote was the first since 1979 to condemn Israel's settlement policy as, previously, the US had shielded its ally from such resolutions by using its veto power.
America also gives more than $3bn (£2.4bn) a year in defence aid to Israel but, under the Obama administration, it has become frustrated with continued settlement building in the West Bank, which Israel has occupied for nearly 50 years.
A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "Israel rejects this shameful anti-Israel resolution at the UN and will not abide by its terms.
"The Obama administration not only failed to protect Israel against this gang-up at the UN, it colluded with it behind the scenes."
The US move was seen by some as a parting shot from Barack Obama to his successor Donald Trump, just weeks before the latter's inauguration.
Mr Trump had earlier joined with Mr Netanyahu in urging the Obama administration to veto the resolution as it was presented by Egypt.
The President-elect had written on social media that peace between the Israelis and Palestinians "will only come through direct negotiations between the parties and not through the imposition of terms by the United Nations".
He had added the resolution "puts Israel in a very poor negotiating position and is extremely unfair to all Israelis".
That draft was put on hold but it made a reappearance with sponsorship from New Zealand, Malaysia, Senegal and Venezuela.
It was this resolution that was passed 14 to zero with the help of the US's shock abstention.
The US ambassador to the UN Samantha Power said: "We cannot stand in the way of this resolution as we seek to preserve a chance of attaining our longstanding objective of two states living side by side in peace and security.
"The settlement problem has gotten so much worse that it is now putting at risk the very viability of that two-state solution."
Israel has also responded by re-calling its ambassadors to New Zealand and Senegal, although it does not have diplomatic relationships with Malaysia or Venezuela.
Israel may fare better with the next US administration, however.
Donald Trump, who is just weeks away from his inauguration, had wanted the US to veto the resolution and tweeted after the vote: "As to the U.N., things will be different after Jan. 20th."
The incoming president has already signalled a possible change in US policy by appointing one his lawyers - a fundraiser for a major Israeli settlement - as Washington's new ambassador to Israel.
The vote was the first since 1979 to condemn Israel's settlement policy as, previously, the US had shielded its ally from such resolutions by using its veto power.
America also gives more than $3bn (£2.4bn) a year in defence aid to Israel but, under the Obama administration, it has become frustrated with continued settlement building in the West Bank, which Israel has occupied for nearly 50 years.
A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "Israel rejects this shameful anti-Israel resolution at the UN and will not abide by its terms.
"The Obama administration not only failed to protect Israel against this gang-up at the UN, it colluded with it behind the scenes."
The US move was seen by some as a parting shot from Barack Obama to his successor Donald Trump, just weeks before the latter's inauguration.
Mr Trump had earlier joined with Mr Netanyahu in urging the Obama administration to veto the resolution as it was presented by Egypt.
The President-elect had written on social media that peace between the Israelis and Palestinians "will only come through direct negotiations between the parties and not through the imposition of terms by the United Nations".
He had added the resolution "puts Israel in a very poor negotiating position and is extremely unfair to all Israelis".
That draft was put on hold but it made a reappearance with sponsorship from New Zealand, Malaysia, Senegal and Venezuela.
It was this resolution that was passed 14 to zero with the help of the US's shock abstention.
The US ambassador to the UN Samantha Power said: "We cannot stand in the way of this resolution as we seek to preserve a chance of attaining our longstanding objective of two states living side by side in peace and security.
"The settlement problem has gotten so much worse that it is now putting at risk the very viability of that two-state solution."
Israel has also responded by re-calling its ambassadors to New Zealand and Senegal, although it does not have diplomatic relationships with Malaysia or Venezuela.
Israel may fare better with the next US administration, however.
Donald Trump, who is just weeks away from his inauguration, had wanted the US to veto the resolution and tweeted after the vote: "As to the U.N., things will be different after Jan. 20th."
The incoming president has already signalled a possible change in US policy by appointing one his lawyers - a fundraiser for a major Israeli settlement - as Washington's new ambassador to Israel.
Weather warnings as Storm Conor to arrive on Christmas Day
Power has been restored to over 20,000 homes in Scotland after storm Barbara brought high winds and disrupted travel - but a new storm is brewing.
Conor is forecast to sweep over parts of the country through Christmas Day and Boxing Day, bringing further misery for travellers.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) said that by Saturday morning engineers had restored power to more than 21,000 homes.
Image Caption:Porthcawl, Wales, as Storm Barbara hits the country
All 13,000 customers whose households were affected by a lightning strike in Lewis and Harris have been reconnected within two hours.
However, 762 customers remain without power on the islands of Lewis, Jura and Shetland.
At its height Storm Barbara brought wind speeds of more than 80mph and lightning strikes across the north west of Scotland and the Western Isles.
Difficult conditions and warnings remain in place for Christmas Eve.
Image Caption:The sunrise over Bingham, Nottinghamshire
The Met Office has issued yellow "be aware" warnings for Scotland's central belt and northwards on Saturday.
The most frequent snow showers are expected to fall north of the Central Belt, with 5-10cm of snow possible on higher ground.
ScotRail said it planned to run services as scheduled on Christmas Eve with the possibility of some minor alterations, and ferry services remain subject to cancellations and revised schedules.
But there could be a north/south split over the festive weekend and Boxing Day.
The southeast is forecast to enjoy a mild Christmas Day, possibly with record temperatures.
But elsewhere weather warnings are in place as Conor is expected to bring more high winds and a risk of lightning to the Western Isles, north-west Highlands, Orkney and Shetland.
Dean Hall, a Met Office forecaster, said: "For Christmas Eve there is a north/south split across the UK.
"We still have very gusty, squally conditions across much of Scotland and the north of England and Northern Ireland with further showers, some heavy at times and turning wintry over higher ground."
He added: "England and Wales will get away with a much drier and brighter day."
Conor is forecast to sweep over parts of the country through Christmas Day and Boxing Day, bringing further misery for travellers.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) said that by Saturday morning engineers had restored power to more than 21,000 homes.
Image Caption:Porthcawl, Wales, as Storm Barbara hits the countryAll 13,000 customers whose households were affected by a lightning strike in Lewis and Harris have been reconnected within two hours.
However, 762 customers remain without power on the islands of Lewis, Jura and Shetland.
At its height Storm Barbara brought wind speeds of more than 80mph and lightning strikes across the north west of Scotland and the Western Isles.
Difficult conditions and warnings remain in place for Christmas Eve.
Image Caption:The sunrise over Bingham, NottinghamshireThe Met Office has issued yellow "be aware" warnings for Scotland's central belt and northwards on Saturday.
The most frequent snow showers are expected to fall north of the Central Belt, with 5-10cm of snow possible on higher ground.
ScotRail said it planned to run services as scheduled on Christmas Eve with the possibility of some minor alterations, and ferry services remain subject to cancellations and revised schedules.
But there could be a north/south split over the festive weekend and Boxing Day.
The southeast is forecast to enjoy a mild Christmas Day, possibly with record temperatures.
But elsewhere weather warnings are in place as Conor is expected to bring more high winds and a risk of lightning to the Western Isles, north-west Highlands, Orkney and Shetland.
Dean Hall, a Met Office forecaster, said: "For Christmas Eve there is a north/south split across the UK.
"We still have very gusty, squally conditions across much of Scotland and the north of England and Northern Ireland with further showers, some heavy at times and turning wintry over higher ground."
He added: "England and Wales will get away with a much drier and brighter day."
Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt dies in hospital in Spain at 68
Status Quo's Rick Parfitt has died in hospital in Spain after suffering a severe infection, his manager has said.
The 68-year-old guitarist had been taken to hospital in Marbella on Thursday, "following complications to a shoulder injury".
His son, Rick Parfitt Jr, said on Twitter: "I cannot describe the sadness I feel right now.
To many he was a rockstar, to me he was simply 'Dad', and I loved him hugely. RIP Pappa Parf."
The Surrey-born musician had recently pulled out of a Status Quo tour after suffering a heart attack in the summer.
At the time his manager, Simon Porter, said Parfitt had "died" for several minutes, and the episode had affected him mentally.
There had been health concerns for years. In 1997, Parfitt underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery following decades of touring with the band.
Nevertheless, he still enjoyed the "odd pint" and said he would not be becoming a "born-again Christian".
Last year, Status Quo notched up 500 weeks in the British album charts - something achieved by few musicians.
One of their most famous appearances was in 1985 at Live Aid, beginning their set with Rockin All Over The World.
Queen's Brian May has paid tribute, saying: "Shocked and so sad to hear of the passing of Rick Parfitt.
"Hard to find words. You truly joyfully rocked our world. RIP dear buddy. Bri."
Spandau Ballet's Martin Kemp said: "RIP you lovely man Rick Parfitt!
"You rocked all around the world and back again!! One of rocks great characters you will be missed!"
Parfitt's manager and family said in a statement: "We are truly devastated to have to announce that Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt has passed away at lunchtime today.
"He died in hospital in Marbella, Spain as a result of a severe infection, having been admitted to hospital on Thursday evening following complications to a shoulder injury incurred by a previous fall.
"This tragic news comes at a time when Rick was hugely looking forward to launching a solo career with an album and autobiography planned for 2017 following his departure from Status Quo's touring activities on medical advice.
"He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, fellow band members, management, crew and his dedicated legion of fans from throughout the world, gained through 50 years of monumental success with Status Quo.
"Rick is survived by his wife Lyndsay, their twins Tommy and Lily and Rick's adult children Rick Jnr and Harry.
"No further comment will be made at this time and Rick's family, and the band, ask for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time."
The 68-year-old guitarist had been taken to hospital in Marbella on Thursday, "following complications to a shoulder injury".
His son, Rick Parfitt Jr, said on Twitter: "I cannot describe the sadness I feel right now.
To many he was a rockstar, to me he was simply 'Dad', and I loved him hugely. RIP Pappa Parf."
The Surrey-born musician had recently pulled out of a Status Quo tour after suffering a heart attack in the summer.
At the time his manager, Simon Porter, said Parfitt had "died" for several minutes, and the episode had affected him mentally.
There had been health concerns for years. In 1997, Parfitt underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery following decades of touring with the band.
Nevertheless, he still enjoyed the "odd pint" and said he would not be becoming a "born-again Christian".
Last year, Status Quo notched up 500 weeks in the British album charts - something achieved by few musicians.
One of their most famous appearances was in 1985 at Live Aid, beginning their set with Rockin All Over The World.
Queen's Brian May has paid tribute, saying: "Shocked and so sad to hear of the passing of Rick Parfitt.
"Hard to find words. You truly joyfully rocked our world. RIP dear buddy. Bri."
Spandau Ballet's Martin Kemp said: "RIP you lovely man Rick Parfitt!
"You rocked all around the world and back again!! One of rocks great characters you will be missed!"
Parfitt's manager and family said in a statement: "We are truly devastated to have to announce that Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt has passed away at lunchtime today.
"He died in hospital in Marbella, Spain as a result of a severe infection, having been admitted to hospital on Thursday evening following complications to a shoulder injury incurred by a previous fall.
"This tragic news comes at a time when Rick was hugely looking forward to launching a solo career with an album and autobiography planned for 2017 following his departure from Status Quo's touring activities on medical advice.
"He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, fellow band members, management, crew and his dedicated legion of fans from throughout the world, gained through 50 years of monumental success with Status Quo.
"Rick is survived by his wife Lyndsay, their twins Tommy and Lily and Rick's adult children Rick Jnr and Harry.
"No further comment will be made at this time and Rick's family, and the band, ask for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time."
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