Queen set to given Royal Assent to Brexit Bill

Queen set to given Royal Assent to Brexit Bill

World Unknown   07:11

After several weeks of debate on the floors House of Commons and House of Lords, after the end of the various legal tussle between the government and concerned citizens. Her Majesty the Queen is now going to give the Royal Assent for the UK to official kick-start the exit process from the EU.

Once the bill otherwise known as the European Union (Notification of Withdrawal) Bill, becomes law, it will empower the PM to trigger Article 50 that will official start the exit deal with the other 7 EU member states

According to sources from the government, it is probable that the monarch’s Royal Assent may be signed at about 11am

Government sources say Royal Assent is likely to be granted at around 11am.

Such a bill has never been rejected by the monarch since 1707 apart from when Queen Anne refused it for a Bill for settling the militia in Scotland.

The bill's passing into law follows a difficult day for the Government in which ministers were accused of "driving towards a cliff-edge with a blindfold on".

Surprisingly, Brexit Secretary David Davis has been made to accept the fact that the office he heads is yet to make an assessment of the economic consequences of a failed Brexit deal with the EU.

His admission was despite the Prime Minister repeatedly saying she thinks no deal is better than a bad deal.

Scotland to have its own national currency after independence - Alex Salmond

Scotland to have its own national currency after independence - Alex Salmond

World Unknown   13:03

Following the controversial question asked Joanna Cherry few days ago, it appears the former First Minister and a strong advocate for Scottish independence Alex Salmond has come up with a solution, saying Scotland could let go of the British pound and get its own national currency, should they leave the rest of the UK.

He stated that Scotland does not need neither the euro nor the pound, but then he also said the pound sterling would be put to use pending when the new currency comes into circulation.

Salmon speaking also stated that Scotland would seek to remain in the EU single market, in the even of Scotland splitting from the rest of the UK.

Nonetheless it would now have to initially leave the European Union (EU) after Theresa May ruled out a second independence referendum before Brexit.

He told the Financial Times: “The question of continuity that matters is continuity within the single marketplace, the European Economic Area.

“Don’t underestimate the reservoir of goodwill that Scotland has now.”

Ms Strugeon's hopes for a fresh vote for independence - just four years after the 'once in a generation' 2014 vote - initially sent the pound plunging as markets feared fresh uncertainty for Britain's future.

But Mrs May's refusal to bow to the Scottish First Minister helped pushed sterling higher yesterday, along with signs the Bank of England could be getting closer to raising interest rates.

Spanish MEP expresses hope of the UK rejoining the EU one day

Spanish MEP expresses hope of the UK rejoining the EU one day

World Unknown   11:25

Another EU leader representing Spain in the EU Parliament has joined in condemning Brexit, warning of a “cold” world outside the EU during a fanatical Pro-EU speech. His speech captures the “threat” the EU will face as well as the UK in its “selfish” Brexit. Saying that, it is not all about leaving the EU, but leaving “the dreams that we share”.

Mr González Pons said: “Brexit is the most selfish decision taken in the years since Winston Churchill saved Europe with the blood sweat and tears of the English.

“Europe is not a market, it is the desire to live together. To leave Europe isn’t leaving a market, it’s leaving the dreams that we share.

“We can have a common market, but if we don't have shared dreams we have nothing. Europe is the peace that came off the duster of the Second World War.”

Pointing out that the EU was the “only alternative” in an increasingly globalised world.

He said: “Europe is today more alone than ever before, but the people don't understand. Europe without a doubt is the best solution, and we don't know how to explain it to our citizens.

“Globalisation means that Europe today is inevitable, the only alternative. But Brexit shows us the Europe is reversible that we can go back in history. Outside Europe is a cold place.”

Mr González Pons also speaking about the European bloc’s triumphs, said: “Europe is the return of freedom to Greece, Spain and Portugal,” he said. “Europe is the fall of the Berlin wall. Europe is the end of communism, Europe is the welfare state, its democracy.

“Europe is fundamental rights. Could we live without these? Could we leave all of these? For a market, will we leave all of this behind?

“I hope at the next summit of Rome, we talk not about what Europe owes us, but what we owe to Europe.”

He however did not end his speech without saying of the possibilities of Britain returning to the European bloc one day.

“Europe is the only spring that our continent has known in all its history,” the politician said. “I’m one of those that hopes that from the day that the Prime Minister announces that one day the English will come home to Europe.”

EU leaders threaten to make Theresa May "see sense" in her hard Brexit stance

EU leaders threaten to make Theresa May "see sense" in her hard Brexit stance

World Unknown   09:04

With the look of things, it is becoming apparent that EU leaders are just awaiting for the triggering of Article 50 by Theresa May to unleash their venom.

This assertion is made based on the fact that EU socialists’ top dog have announced full readiness to make the PM “see sense” in resolve to stick to hard Brexit stance.

Contrary to speculation, the US economy is growing and 235,000 jobs created in February

Contrary to speculation, the US economy is growing and 235,000 jobs created in February

World Unknown   10:59

Contrary to all the negative projections made by anti-Trump media houses to scuttle his ascendancy to the US presidency, recent data has revealed that the US economy has been experiencing steady growth. As a result, the government is now set to adjust the cost of borrowing to suit the current trend in order to keep the economy booming.

The Federal Reserve has now put interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point - the second rise in three months, due to improvements in key sectors of the US economy. Report shows that about 235,000 jobs were created in February, a growth which has proved all the project fear campaigners to shame.

Within the period, US shares experienced some gains, while the USD fall abruptly due to lack of plan that rates might rise.

The Fed's forecasts also saw the US economy developing by 2.1% in 2017, unchanged from its December forecast.

The latest rise in rates was due to the official jobs figures published on Friday, which were better than what was projected.

Steadily increasing rates are a sign that the US is gradually being weaned off the stimulus of cheap borrowing costs that helped nurse it back to health after the recession.

Fed chair Janet Yellen said: "The economy continues to expand at a moderate pace."

Economists think the next Fed hike will come no earlier than June as the central bank will want time to assess the likelihood that Mr Trump's plans will be passed by Congress.

However, Rising US rates have some kind of global consequences especially for developing countries most susceptible to higher dollar borrowing costs.

It contrasts with the UK, where rates were slashed to 0.5% in 2009 and cut further to 0.25% in the wake of last year's Brexit vote.

Lucy O'Carroll, chief economist at Aberdeen Asset Management, told Sky News it would have been an "enormous surprise" if the Fed had not raised rates in its latest policy announcement.

She said policymakers did not seem too worried about the possibility of soaring inflation.

"I think it was a very measured and reassuring message," she said.

Latest survey reveals that anit-EU sentiment among Scots may hamper Nicola Sturgeon's clamour for another indyref

Latest survey reveals that anit-EU sentiment among Scots may hamper Nicola Sturgeon's clamour for another indyref

World Unknown   10:17

It appears the Scottish First Minister may get her drive for another Scottish indyref through if she insists on taking Scotland bank to the EU. This is because she is gradually losing public support in that regard, as most Scots are not wanting to be put under Brussels rule anymore.

According to a recent analysis, there is a rise of anti-EU feeling in the Scotland, as result, her plans to leave the rest of the UK and rejoin the European Union is not being welcomed by of the Scottish people.

The ScotCen annual Scottish social attitudes survey found that two in three Scots (67 per cent) either want Britain to leave the EU (25 per cent) or for the EU’s powers to be reduced (42 per cent).

This was a 14 point rise in Euroscepticism in Scotland from 2014 and 27 per cent increase based on opinions in 1999 when the Scottish Parliament was opened.

In the meantime, Spanish Foreign minister Alfonso Dastis has again confirmed that his country would reject any effort to keep Scotland in the EU and instead a newly independent country would have to “go to the back of the queue” to join the bloc.

His confirmation comes after it was alleged that British Prime Minister will reject all efforts made by Ms Sturgeon to sink Brexit deal by pushing for a second Scottish indyref which is suggested to take place between Autumn 2018 and Spring 2019 before a deal with the EU is concluded.

Report has it that members Mrs May’s party have also clearly told the PM to allow the Scottish people to hold the referendum, but only if it would be done after the 2021 Scottish Parliament election.

Yorkshire Tory MP Rishi Sunak said: “It seems hard to block a referendum but we should push the timing until after Brexit so the choice is clearer for people. A good deal will strengthen the case for the Union.”

In parliament an imperious Mrs May dismissed the SNP demands mocking former First Minister Alex Salmond, who is now the SNP’s foreign affairs spokesman in Westminster.

"Those in Scotland who talk about having a second independence referendum should remember what (Mr Salmond) said," said Mrs May.

"It was a once-in-a-generation vote that took place in September 2014.

"It seems a generation now is less than three years."

The disposition in parliament was summed up by Tory MP Richard Drax when he described Ms Sturgeon’s actions as “totally irresponsible”. Saying the First Minister move for another referendum was taking Scottish people "over a cliff like lemmings to economic ruin."

Reacting swiftly, the First Minister attempted to prove to that her mandate as a First Minister is greater than that of Theresa May to call for a Scottish referendum. Saying: “I was elected as FM on a clear manifesto commitment. The PM is not yet elected by anyone.”

The author of the ScotCen report, Professor John Curtice said: “The commitment to the EU of many of those who voted to Remain does not appear to be strong enough that they are likely to be persuaded by the outcome of the EU referendum to change their preference for staying in the UK.

“Meanwhile, there is a risk that linking independence closely to the idea of staying in the EU could alienate some of those who currently back leaving the UK.

“Nicola Sturgeon might have been wiser to have stayed her hand, for on current trends there is a real possibility that demographic change will help produce a majority for independence in the not too distant future anyway.”

House of Lords give Nicola Sturgeon another blow concerning Sottish independence

House of Lords give Nicola Sturgeon another blow concerning Sottish independence

World Unknown   13:25

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon suffers another major blow from Lords saying her relentless clamour for a second indyref is “disruptive” and “divisive” - as well as distracting from home politics in Scotland.

Lord Dunlop while responding to a question asked by Lord West of Spithead as per what response the Government would give to Nicola Sturgeon on her plans, insisted that Sturgeon is being asked to back off.

He further said: “A little over two years ago people in Scotland voted decisively to remain part of the UK in a referendum.

“This Government remains of the view there should not be a further referendum on independence. Even at this late hour we call on the Scottish Government to take it off the table.

“Another referendum would be divisive and cause huge economic uncertainty at the worst possible time.”

Lord West of Spithead asked the Government to “give clarity” to the Scottish people by guaranteeing a referendum would only be heard after Brexit talks, so they have the chance to understand the details of the new arrangement.

Nevertheless, Ms Sturgeon has insisted the referendum could be held in summer 2018.

Lord Dunlop said: “Nicole Sturgeon said yesterday she wanted the UK to get a good deal.

“I can think of nothing more calculated to undermine the achievement of a good deal than holding a divisive and disruptive independence referendum during the last six months of one of the most important peace time negotiations this country has ever faced.

At this time we should be working together to get the best possible deal for the whole of the UK, and each part of the UK, and particularly Scotland.”

Labour Lord McAvoy maintained that there is absolutely “no desire” in Scotland for a second referendum on independence.

He said: “It is simply not in Scotland’s best interests.

“Especially not at a time when what we need is stability and a period of calm, not yet more uncertainty.

“Before the 2014 vote the SNP said the vote was a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity and promised to abide by the result.

“The SNP has been agitated for another referendum and will seize upon any excuse.”

Nicola Sturgeon disappointed by EU leaders for saying Scotland will queue up like any to join the union

Nicola Sturgeon disappointed by EU leaders for saying Scotland will queue up like any to join the union

World Unknown   06:33

Big blow, as Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s push for another independence referendum hits the brick moments after she delivered a speech. Since after the Brexit vote last year, the First Minister has been using clamouring tirelessly for a second referendum to leave the UK, using the issue of membership of the EU single market as an excuse.

It has been said that despite the threat for another IndyRef, Edinburgh will not be given any special treatment in whatever way. This was disclosed by the Commission in a response Sturgeon’s referendum speech.

The First Minister has argued over and over that the EU is going to give the Scottish people a special arrangement for them to remain in the EU if the Scottish people vote in favour of leaving the UK, saying such a move will not in any way cause any controversy, especially in adopting the euro.

However, critics from different quarters have condemned the assertions made by the First Minister, saying it is a pure fantasy. To make it worse, EU leaders have bluntly refused to give any waiver to Scotland even if it breaks out from the UK to retain membership of the EU, as they have resolved to threat Scotland as any other country wanting to join the EU.

This was affirmed by the Commission’s representative as much after being asked about the claims in certain quarters which states that Edinburgh would be made to “turn the clock back to zero” in order to negotiate new EU membership from scratch.

Maragritis Schinas told reporters at a briefing that Brussels would apply the “Barroso doctrine” to Scotland’s case, an argument which states that regions opting for independence automatically lose their EU membership by opting to become a new country.

In 2012 the then Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso slapped down claims by Alex Salmond that Scots could vote to leave Britain and still keep their membership of the bloc, saying it was incompatible with both EU and international law.

He said: "I am not going to speculate now about possible secessions, it is not my job. But I can tell you that to join the European Union, yes, we have a procedure. It is a procedure of international law.

"A new state, if it wants to join the European Union, has to apply to become a member like any state. In fact, I see no country leaving and I see many countries wanting to join.

"A state has to be a democracy first of all, and that state has to apply to become a member of the European Union and all the other member states have to give their consent."

Mr Barroso said: “In case there is a new country, a new state, coming out of a current member state, it will have to apply and the application and the accession to the European Union will have to be approved by all the other member states of the European Union.

“I don’t want to interfere on your referendum here, your democratic discussion here, but of course it will be extremely difficult to get the approval of all the other member states to have a new member coming from one member state.

“We have seen Spain has been opposing even the recognition of Kosovo, for instance.

“So it is to some extent a similar case because it’s a new country and so I believe it’s going to be extremely difficult, if not impossible, a new member state coming out of one of our countries getting the agreement of the others.”

And quizzed about Ms Sturgeon’s announcement of a new independence referendum today, Mr Schinas was less than lukewarm and offered no encouragement whatsoever that Scotland would be in line for EU membership in the event of a vote for secession.

He said: “We’ve got no particular position at the moment because these events are currently taking place.

“The commission fully respects the legal, constitutional rights of the member states to organise things as they like.

“And the Barroso doctrine, whether that would apply? Yes, that would apply, obviously.”

The confirmation throws a huge spanner in the works of Ms Sturgeon’s independence bid, as it means Edinburgh will now have to go through the long and gruelling process of joining the EU and could face its membership being vetoed by other member states.

Theresa May has so far refused to say whether or not the Tories will allow the legislation required for a second vote to pass, whilst Labour has confirmed that it will fight it in Holyrood but will not oppose it if it comes to Westminster.

British Government expresses serious concerns over the influx of migrants as summer draws nearer

British Government expresses serious concerns over the influx of migrants as summer draws nearer

World Unknown   08:45

It has been revealed that within the 67 days of this year, about 20,000 migrants from different parts of the world have crossed to Europe’s mainland by sea. And experts have warned that the trend may increase each day as summer draws nearer with a fairer weather condition expected in the Mediterranean.

Accordingly, the French government have proactively moved ahead to close six motorways service stations leading to Calais in order to make it impossible for illegal immigrants sneak into UK-board lorries.

James Hookham, deputy chief executive of the Freight Transport Association, has stated that: “Our members have reported signs that migrants are returning to Calais and French motorway operator Sanef’s move to close truck parking areas at services near the port due to problems confirms this.

“The French authorities need to take action before the situation gets any worse.

“We don’t want to see a return to last summer’s chaos when drivers suffered threats and intimidation at unprecedented levels.”

Tory MP and Brexit Secretary David Davies said: “The European nations are aiding and abetting this chaotic exodus by sending out rescue boats to pick up thousands of migrants trying to enter the Continent illegally from North Africa.

“They should be taking them straight back to ports and safe refugee camps so they are not incentivised to risk their lives trying.

“I hope this worrying development doesn’t herald the return to the chaotic events of last year.”

Report has  it that British drivers have for over two years faced with a wave of life threatening scenarios on their way to Calais ferry terminal, as these migrants always use burning blockaded as a way of forcing drivers to slow down all vehicles going back to the UK in order to help them break into the lorries.

Road Haulage Association chief executive Richard Burnett have also said: “We always advise our international drivers not to stop within 100 miles of Calais unless they absolutely have to.

"To even consider yet another summer of misery is quite simply out of the question.

“If Sanef remains resolute not to reopen the rest areas we will be demanding more security is deployed on the approach roads and that includes the French military.”

EU Commission president expresses strong optimism that Britain will re-join the EU

EU Commission president expresses strong optimism that Britain will re-join the EU

World Unknown   08:35

There seem to be some of good news for the UK should Brexit does not meet the desired needs of the country after leaving the EU. This is coming as the Commission’s President Jean-Claude Juncker, is of the believe that Britain could re-join the EU some day in the future. ‘I would like to be in the same boat as the British.’

Juncker clearly expressed his dislike for Brexit when he announced saying “I don’t like Brexit.”

“I would like to be in the same boat as the British. The day will come when the British re-enter the boat. I hope,” he added.

In a matter of days, the British PM will be putting in motion Brexit negotiation once she triggers Article 50 this month.

But Juncker said Brexit doesn’t mean “the end of our continental ambitions.”

“I had the impression from colleagues I talked to in the room that … the Brexit issue is encouraging the others to continue. Unfortunately, not the British,” he said.

Niger Delta ‘oil thieves’ said they want the government to give them recognition and legalise their crude oil refining activities

Niger Delta ‘oil thieves’ said they want the government to give them recognition and legalise their crude oil refining activities

South Unknown   12:34

At last after several years of attacks and counter attacks between Niger Delta ‘oil thieves’ the boys have come out to state clearly what they want.

During a press interview with Sky News, the boys narrated how they are desperately fight to be recognised as legitimate and bring a lasting solution to the grave environmental pollution their activities are causing the volatile region.

According to Sky News, one of the Niger Delta kingpin operating in the creeks identified as Emo, stated how about 2,000 people of the region are being employed by him: "There are no jobs. We have nothing to do. You understand?

"That is why we are seeking help. We are begging for the government to assist us. You understand? We know what we're doing is wrong but we have no option."

During the press coverage with Sky, Emo admitted to the reporters that, it is not he was not aware of the effect their activities have on oil prices globally and locally, however, him and his workers feel the only alternative to survive is to steal oil.

"We are desperate," he said. "We have no jobs and no future."

Emo travels to different places with heavily armed guards to protect him from his enemies and other oil thieves.

Also the journalists were taken to one of Emo’s camps in Rivers State via speedboat, which is about 19 miles from Port Harcourt.

This area is lawless and kidnapping is rife.

Though Sky News crew went with their own security guards, Emo still went on to assure them all of his own personal guards who are hidden all over the mangrove swamps as they watch them arrive.

"They know me. They will not attack us," he said.

The only Nigerian navy boat, which is patrolling the waterways long before they reach Emo's illegal refinery, stopped them and demanded them to hand over all their fuel to them.

Despite a well-vaunted military campaign to put a stop to the illegal activities here, corruption is apparent and part of the problem.

“As we approach the illegal refineries, we see a plume of smoke indicating others are burning the crude.”

“Many of the thieves have stopped daytime burning to avoid being attacked by the Nigerian military.”

However, the government-authorised crackdown does not stop the stealing. It only sets them back for a short time.

"We have been attacked," Emo said. "It causes a lot of oil spillage and then we just start up again."

His audacity is quite astounding, so much that, he was asked by a member of the crew repeatedly about him being so outspoken about his illegal work and he replies: "I don't care. What can they do to me?

"I want to become legal. I want the government to say we can be legal and do this legally."

The damage to the area is extensive with oil everywhere, coating the mangrove swamps, all over the water and washing much further down the Delta polluting water supplies for thousands of others downstream.

I will persuade EU nations to allow British nationals to retain their freedom of movement – Guy Verhofstadt

I will persuade EU nations to allow British nationals to retain their freedom of movement – Guy Verhofstadt

World Unknown   12:30

EU Parliament Chief Brexit negotiator Guy Verhofstadt has hinted that he is going to put in his best to persuade the 27 EU member states to permit British nationals to retain their freedom of movement and every other rights they have even after Brexit.

In his statement, Verhofstadt said that UK nationals should be given the liberty to apply for the rights individually.

His statement was made after the British Prime Minister Theresa May attended the very last EU summit in Brussels, before the triggering of Article 50 which is billed to take place this month.

Mr Verhofstadt told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "All British citizens today have also EU citizenship.

"That means a number of things: the possibility to participate in the European elections, the freedom of travel without problem inside the union."

He further that: "We need to have an arrangement in which this arrangement can continue for those citizens who on an individual basis are requesting it."

Similarly, Theresa May had always stressed the need for both parties to prioritize the future of British citizens and their EU counterparts in the Brexit negotiation as early as possible, in order to arrest the rising tensions and uncertainties.

Though the PM has repeatedly said that she is ready to secure the rights of EU nationals living in the UK, as long as EU nations will do same to UK nationals in their countries. However, people within and outside the government has been accusing the PM for using EU nationals as “bargaining chips”

Mr Verhofstadt also stated that he had received over a thousand letters from British citizens who do not want to lose their connection with "European civilisation".

In the past he had called on Brussels to be "open and generous" to individual UK citizens, and said politicians were considering how to allow them to maintain their ties to the continent.

Theresa May bows to pressure by Tory MPs over Hammond's controversial National Insurance Charges

Theresa May bows to pressure by Tory MPs over Hammond's controversial National Insurance Charges

World Unknown   10:40

British Prime Minister appears to have broken the promises made by her party to the British people after she gave her support to Philip Hammond’s divisive National Insurance charges.

However, after some members of her party revolted against her on the issue, the PM bowed to pressure and retreated on when the controversial charges will be introduced, saying, rather being part of the Financial Bill, they will be brought in as part of separate legislation in the autumn.

Though it has been claimed by Labour that the PM’s move to put brakes on Hammond’s Budget proposals was a "partial U-turn" and said she was rowing back on Philip Hammond's plans.

During her speech in Brussels, she said the proposals would make National Insurance "simpler, fairer and more progressive".

Mrs May also stated that the Chancellor's paper would contain details about reforms "along with some changes we plan to make on rights and protections for self-employed workers, including on issues like pension rights and parental rights and maternity pay".

Furthermore, she said: "The decision on National Insurance was taken in the context of a rapidly changing labour market in which the number of people in self-employment - often doing the same work as people employed more traditionally - is rising rapidly."

The Prime Minister also said the shift towards self-employment was "eroding the tax base" and making it harder to pay for public services "on which ordinary working families depend".

She said the National Insurance changes go "some way towards fixing that".

In a swift response to the PM’s move to pave way for more concessions to her rebel MPs, shadow chancellor John McDonnell has challenged her to show leadership and scrap the proposals.

"The fact the Prime Minister won't fully support her own Chancellor's Budget measure, and has been forced by Labour to row back on it just 24 hours after he delivered his speech in Parliament, shows the level of disarray that exists at the top of Government," he said.

"What is even more alarming is that the Government didn't stop and think before announcing such a tax hike."

Threateningly for the Prime Minister and Chancellor, at about 20 the scale of the backbench rebellion is now greater than the Government's majority of 17 in the Commons, which means they could face defeat in a showdown with the rebels.

One of the latest to join the revolution, Craig Mackinlay, told Sky News: "This is a move which has understandably generated negative headlines and I do have concerns about breaking manifesto commitments and the fairly small amount of revenue this is likely to generate."

On the other hand there was good news for Mr Hammond as his controversial National Insurance changes won the support of the Institute of Fiscal Studies in its analysis of his Budget measures.

While granting interview to Sky News, Mr Hammond said the plan would make the system fairer considering that employees and self-employed workers have access to similar benefits from the state.

"It's only right and fair we should take a small step to closing the gap between the treatment of employed and self-employed people," he said.

Mr Hammond insisted that with Brexit the circumstances had changed since the 2015 manifesto.

"No Conservative likes to increase taxes, National Insurance or anything else," he said. "But our job is to do what needs to be done to get Britain match-fit for its future."

But Conservative MPs and the Government's opponents angrily pointed to a manifesto pledge on tax and National Insurance given by David Cameron during the 2015 general election campaign.

As MPs continued debating the Budget in the Commons, shadow chancellor John McDonnell accused the Chancellor of a "manifesto betrayal" and accused him of hiking taxes on minicab drivers, low-paid drivers, self-employed cleaners and plumbers.

And former shadow cabinet member Angela Eagle told MPs: "No-one will ever believe a Tory election promise ever again."

Clamour for a second Scottish independence referendum a distraction - Theresa May

Clamour for a second Scottish independence referendum a distraction - Theresa May

World Unknown   09:14

Report has it that the much clamoured second independence referendum for Scotland by the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon may not see  the light of the day as Theresa May’s government appears to be adamant to the call by Sturgeon to hold the proposed referendum by 2018. Saying that listening to such a threat by Sturgeon is a “distraction”.

During a media chat with the BBC, Nicola Sturgeon pointed stressed that she was "not ruling anything out" and was not "bluffing" over the referendum.

Nevertheless, does not see any need for a second indyref, even after the Scottish people massively voted to remain in the EU.

"The referendum was held only in 2014. It was a fair, decisive and legal vote," he said.

"Both sides agreed to abide by that and we think both sides should. Continued discussion around a second referendum is a distraction."

In the last vote, support for independence in Scotland stood at 45%, and recent polls show most Scots do not want another vote on secession.

On the other hand Ms Sturgeon has said that the result of the Brexit referendum, when Scotland voted to stay in the European Union but the UK as a whole voted to leave, gives her a mandate to call a new vote.

On the contrary, Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale accused Ms Sturgeon of seeking to "sow division and uncertainty, at a time when the country needs to pull together more than ever".

Scottish second indyref suggested to hold Autumn 2018

Scottish second indyref suggested to hold Autumn 2018

World Unknown   12:12

With the current happenings, it appears the Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon has edged nearer to making a demand for a second Scottish independence referendum as claims one in 2018 could be "common sense".

Ms Sturgeon further reiterated that her call for a second indyref is not a bluff as it may be called in autumn 2018.

Former Scottish First Minister, Alex Salmond, has repeatedly suggested this as a likely date and Sturgeon’s remarks will fuel speculation of an announcement at next week's SNP conference.

The SNP leader has repeatedly argued that another poll would be "almost necessary" if her demands for a bespoke Brexit deal are not met by Prime Minister Theresa May, due to the fact that majority of the Scottish people voted to remain in the EU.

Nonetheless the comments made in a BBC interview generated anger among opponents who said the First Minister should "put the country first".

Asked about autumn 2018 Ms Sturgeon told Brexit: Britain’s Biggest Deal: “Within that window, er I guess of when the, the sort of outline of a UK deal, becomes clear on the UK exiting the EU, I think would be the common sense time for, Scotland to have that choice, if that is the road we choose to go down.”

Pressed by presenter Laura Kuenssberg if she "not was ruling out autumn 2018”, Ms Sturgeon replied: “I’m not ruling anything out.”

Earlier this week former SNP deputy leader Jim Sillar made it clear that  he would not vote for independence if it would Scotland re-joining the EU.

Mr Sillars, 79, who played a leading role in 2014's Yes campaign, stressed that he does not want to be ruled by "an unelected, self-serving elite" in Brussels.

Also, Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson condemned Ms Sturgeon's latest comments saying it demonstrated the "SNP is hell bent on taking Scotland back to another divisive independence referendum".

Ms Davidson added: "She knows that a referendum would inflict further damage on Scotland's economy.

"It is therefore deeply irresponsible for the First Minister of Scotland to cast this cloud of uncertainty over our future.

"She needs to put the country first for once. People in Scotland don't want a second referendum, and the SNP doesn't have a mandate for one.

Rather than cast our future under further doubt, Nicola Sturgeon needs to act like a First Minister, provide some certainty for Scotland, and rule it out."

Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale also stated: “This is yet another attempt by Nicola Sturgeon to sow division and uncertainty, at a time when the country needs to pull together more than ever.

“The First Minister has been all over the place – one week she threatens a vote, the next week she backs away from one.

"Nicola Sturgeon could provide much needed clarity on Scotland's future by ruling out another independence referendum altogether."

She said: “Well, I’m not and I never have been and, you know, I always think that sometimes kind of says more about them than it says about me because it, it suggests that there are politicians in Westminster who think Brexit and all of this is some kind of game.

"It’s not a game, it’s really, really serious and the implications for the UK are serious and the implications for Scotland are serious."

Theresa May to storm EU summit as the union prepares to re-elect Donald Tusk

Theresa May to storm EU summit as the union prepares to re-elect Donald Tusk

World Unknown   11:17

UK Prime Minister Theresa May to storm the EU as the union prepares to re-elect Donald Tusk as the Council president, as it is alleged to be Mrs May’s last EU leaders’ summit before she triggers the long waited Article 50 by the end of March.

Report has it that Mrs May will attend the first day of the Brussels summit, where leaders from the 28-country bloc will discuss migration, security and economic growth.

But she will leave after dinner on Thursday night, to pave way for the remaining 27 leaders to discuss the next summit - in Rome on 25 March - which will celebrate the EU's 60th anniversary.

Although Brexit is not officially on the agenda at the EU summit but Mrs May has used these occasions to discuss Brexit-related issues with other leaders, for example the status of EU nationals in the UK.

The summit may be overshadowed, however, by a diplomatic headache regarding Mr Tusk. This is because the Prime Minister of Poland Beata Szydlo wrote to the Mrs May and other leaders of the EU for them to get rid of the current president Donald Tusk. As he is being accused of influencing domestic politics.

The bitter row between former Polish Prime Minister Mr Tusk and Ms Szydlo's Law and Justice Party has led to Warsaw suggesting a challenger for the job - Polish MEP Jacek Saryusz-Wolski.

The disagreement will come to a head at the commencement of the conference, when leaders of the union will vote on whether Mr Tusk should continue in the role until the end of November 2019.

If not carefully handled, the quarrel could potentially bring about huge implications for Mrs May, as she needs support of EU leaders to get her Brexit negotiations through, once Article 50 is triggered.

Though Mrs May’s spokesman reportedly said that she will not make public her plan for the EU election, but said: "The Prime Minister has been clear that she thinks that he (Mr Tusk) is doing a good job."

£50 BILLION DIVORCE BILL: You must pay- UK told

£50 BILLION DIVORCE BILL: You must pay- UK told

World Unknown   15:09

With the look of things emerging lately, it appears Brexit negotiation may not start in a friendly manner due to the controversial bill the EU

is asking the UK to pay, which the EU is not agreeing to.

The EU is now being accused of trying to strong-arm Britain to make payment of the enormous £50bn to Brussels before any negotiation starts with the UK.

The said amount was calculated and presented by the remaining 27 member states of the EU, as fee Britain would have to pay as part of its obligation as a member of the EU .

Recall that members of the House of Lords brought up a report which says no laws that oblige a country to continue funding the EU after it leaves, something that has been met with outrage.

In response, leader of the Socialist Group in the European Parliament, Gianni Pittella, accused Prime Minister Theresa May of “bullying” tactics. Warning that the PM’s plans would soon get a reality check.

According to him: “Theresa May is a bull in a china shop. She likes playing the role of the hardliner, but she’s just coming across as fully inadequate to live up to this incredibly delicate historical phase.

“Against this background, it is extremely important that the UK is called upon to honour all financial obligations falling due, up to and including the date of its withdrawal.”

But the PM got more confidence when the Lords report came out, as it falls in line with most of her arguments.

On the other hand the European Commission’s chief Brexit negotiator is expecting the UK to pay into the EU budget in 2019 and 2020, with possibilities the UK could be forking out until 2023.

This they said is partly due to payments for EU-funded infrastructure not being settled for two or three years after being agreed.

Mr Pittella insisted that until the UK pays its ‘bill’, there can be no progress on negotiations, in particular securing a free trade deal.

He said: “Without an agreement on this and other crucial issues, talks on future relationships between the EU and UK cannot start.

“Madam May is fully aware of this, but she’s still fooling herself that the EU can be impressed by her bullying attitude.

“The reality will soon wake her up.

“Negotiations between the European Union and UK should be concluded in good faith and a spirit of mutual respect to ensure the orderly exit of the UK from the EU.”

Despite some viewing the hefty bill as punishment for the UK leaving, a high-ranking EU diplomat dismissed the claims.

They said: “This is not the price of leaving, and it shouldn’t be represented as that.

“This is simply what the UK owes. If you buy a pint in a bar, you have to pay for it even if you don’t drink it.”

Anti-Brexit billboard across the UK spurs outrage

Anti-Brexit billboard across the UK spurs outrage

World Unknown   11:15

Findings reveals that several billboards made by Leave Voters are beginning to emerge from different locations in the UK having anti-Brexit posters such as: price hike, hate crime, violation of family rights of EU citizens to mention but a few.

It was also revealed that campaign group stop the Silence crowdfunded nearly £70,000 in just ten days to raise funds in their desperate fight against a so-called ‘hard’ Brexit.

Black photographs highlighting four faces with their mouths enclosed in duct tape have been erected in areas such as London, Bournemouth and Cardiff over the past few days.

They read: “We did not vote for price hikes, hate crimes, brutal Brexit, deal or no deal.

“The people are speaking, is parliament listening?”

Other posters in line to be put up list “losing our families”, “leaving the single market”, “losing funding” and “losing our rights” as some of the group’s objections to the EU exit.

The group is also planning to fund a bus to drive around Westminster in a last ditch effort to try and encourage politicians ahead of further votes on the brexit bill.

According to campaigner Liz Holmes, founder of Stop the Silence: "The Government is ignoring millions of people who are worried about the Brexit cliff-edge, however they voted in the referendum.

"Billboards are the obvious way to get concerns off social media and literally onto the streets of the UK.

"We all want a good deal. We do not believe the Government’s current ‘deal or no deal’ position will achieve that. It should be country first, not Brexit first."

As a result of the success attained during their initial crowdfunder, the group has now launched a second and already raised more than £7,000 of a £35,000 target.

Writing on Facebook, the group said: "This campaign encourages peers to listen to the people as it considers safeguards to guarantee that the final deal will be in the best interests of the people.

"The campaign and group aim to influence the character and quality of debate in Parliament over the next two years, in a way which fully engages and involves the views of the entire electorate, much of which has diverse expectations of the Brexit process.

"The campaign intends to emphasise the foundational British values of open debate and tolerance, where ongoing democratic dialogue must remain accessible, and available, to all of its citizens. “

Brexit may not achieve UK government net migration target – House of Lords

Brexit may not achieve UK government net migration target – House of Lords

World Unknown   07:00

It has been made known once again that contrary to speculations, Brexit may not necessary bring net migration target to a reality or increase wages for the UK worker, however, it has the probability of shortening skills which are needed in key sectors, as reported by the House of Lords.

So far, the Home Secretary Amber Rudd has said "we will be ending free movement as we know it" and the Prime Minister has made that the current arrangements with the EU which allows for free movement will be halted.

According to the report from the Lords EU Home Affairs Sub-Committee bringing to an end free movement of EU nationals in the UK may only have little or no impact. This is because he explained that prior to the referendum, net migration were most driven by non-EU citizens.

The report said: "Restoration of national control over EU migration may or may not, therefore, deliver a reduction in overall net migration."

Furthermore, the Lords' report also warns extending the non-EU work permit system to EU migrants could make it harder for employers to sponsor EU workers, causing labour shortages in areas such as health and farming.

Brexit Secretary David Davis has already warned it could take years for Brits to be trained to fill the gaps in low-skilled jobs left by EU workers.

Baroness Prashar, chair of the committee, called for a "transitional phase" in dealing with EU migrants and stated that: "Crucial sectors of the economy depend on EU migrant labour, so it is essential that any changes don't endanger the vibrancy of the UK economy."

Also speaking, a Home Office spokesman said: "Once we have left the European Union it will be the Government that sets our immigration rules.

"We are currently considering the various options as to how EU migration might work once we have left and it would be wrong to set out further positions at this stage."

British Muslim ghettos accused of Islamic extremism in the country

British Muslim ghettos accused of Islamic extremism in the country

World Unknown   09:23

Findings which was done by one UK’s top expert on radicalisation have shown that Britain’s “Muslim ghettos” are to blame for Islamic extremism within the UK.

The investigation which was made by Maajid Nawaz, the founding chairman of Quilliam, a counter-extremism think tank, criticised calls young Muslims were being radicalised online in their bedrooms as a “myth” and was “side-stepping the problem”.

According to the finding, it was claimed that “lack of integration” within communities was makes it “easier” for terrorist organisations to recruit young Muslims.

 Saying that about a tenth of all UK’s Islamic terrorists emanates from only five council wards located in Birmingham.

The 1,000-page analysis, obtained by The Sunday Times, displayed isolated Muslim neighbourhoods were further likely to have a greater number of terror-related convictions.

The also shows that offences became doubled in the last five years, with the number of those convicted but hitherto unknown to the authorities rising sharply.

Featuring on his Sunday radio show, the host resounded the contents of the report, as he claimed a “vast majority of terrorists are linked to networks within our communities”.

“This failure to integrate means the community itself suffers,” he said.

“Those areas where there is a concentrated Muslim ghetto that isn’t mixing with the rest of the country, those insulated communities end up producing people that do not understand the values of our country.

“And it is, therefore, easier to recruit them to terrorist organisations.”

The 38-year-old also used the moment to call on Muslim communities to “take responsibility” for integrating better within British society.

He went further saying: “To claim terrorists are radicalised in bedrooms sides steps that problem of community responsibility. This lone wolf myth needs to be debunked.

“The overwhelming number of terrorists are linked to networks which exist within our communities.”