Public hearings have begun in the United Kingdom regarding the 2018 death of Dawn Sturgess, a British woman who was exposed to the nerve agent Novichok, a substance used in an attempt to assassinate a former Russian double agent. The inquiry will explore the circumstances surrounding Sturgess’s death and the wider ramifications of the Novichok attack, which severely strained relations between the UK and Russia.
In his new memoir, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson heaps praise on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a ‘change-maker’ and recalling a powerful connection they shared during their first meeting. Johnson also highlights the strong India-UK relationship and credits himself for paving the way for a free-trade deal between the two countries, thanks to Modi’s leadership.
British Airways has become the first airline to recognize the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card as a valid form of photo identification for domestic flights within the UK. This move demonstrates the airline’s commitment to supporting veterans and acknowledges their service to the country.
BYD, a leading global electric vehicle brand, has expanded its footprint in the UK with the opening of a new Sales and Service branch near the Lakeside Shopping Centre in London. This marks a significant step for BYD in the UK market, offering consumers greater accessibility to its innovative electric vehicle lineup and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable transportation.
Prince Harry has been invited to spend Christmas in the UK by his uncle, Charles Spencer. However, Meghan Markle’s reluctance to return due to security concerns may complicate the plans. Harry’s extended solo trip abroad, including a potential secret visit with the Royal Family, has fueled speculation about his Christmas plans.
British Finance Minister Rachel Reeves has pledged to introduce ‘guardrails’ for public investment spending in her upcoming budget, aiming to reassure investors about an expected rise in public debt. Reeves, preparing for her first budget statement on October 30th, is committed to boosting investment in infrastructure and a net-zero economy. The focus on careful management of public finances comes amidst concerns about the impact of increased borrowing on the UK’s bond market.
India has welcomed the agreement between the UK and Mauritius on the return of Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago, including Diego Garcia. India played a quiet but crucial role in the negotiations, supporting Mauritius’s claim while encouraging both sides to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. The agreement secures the future of the US-UK military base at Diego Garcia for at least 99 years, while paving the way for the return of displaced islanders.
In a historic agreement, the UK has relinquished sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while retaining control of Diego Garcia for the next 99 years. This move marks the completion of Mauritius’ decolonization and secures the future of a strategically important US-UK military base.
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused French President Emmanuel Macron of seeking to punish Britain for leaving the European Union during Brexit negotiations. In his upcoming memoir, Johnson claims Macron saw Brexit as a personal slight and used various tactics, including weaponizing the issue of migrants crossing the Channel, to make Britain’s exit difficult.
Greece has issued a warning to UK tourists, advising them to remain cautious as severe weather, including storms, heavy rain, and strong winds, is expected to hit popular holiday destinations in the coming days. The warning comes as similar stormy conditions are also predicted to affect parts of the UK, with Scotland expecting strong winds on Monday.
