January 2021 - United Kingdom Special Weapons News

Britain Allowing Hong Kongers to Seek Residency Under New Policy VOA 31 Jan 2021 -- Millions of Hong Kong residents who seek to leave the territory amid a new national security law imposed by China are now able to apply to live and work in Britain.
China will take 'further action' after derecognizing BN(O) passports Global Times 31 Jan 2021 -- China has officially withdrawn its recognition of British National (Overseas), or BN(O), passports as a valid travel and ID document starting from Sunday (January 31) as the UK began accepting citizenship applications for BN(O)-eligible Hong Kong residents starting on the same day. Experts said this is just the first of many countermeasures that China can take to retaliate against the UK regarding the violation of China's sovereignty.
Playing the 'BN(O) card' a losing game for UK: Global Times editorial Global Times 31 Jan 2021 -- The UK started from Sunday implementing new policies to accept citizenship applications for Hong Kong residents who possess British National (Overseas) [BN(O)] passports. The Chinese Foreign Ministry and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government have announced they will "no longer recognize this passport as a valid travel document or for identification" starting from Sunday.
Chinese central govt agencies blast UK for betraying trust over so-called BNO passport for HK residents Global Times 31 Jan 2021 -- Both the liaison office of the central government in Hong Kong and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council denounced the UK's new immigration scheme which grants a pathway to citizenship for Hong Kong residents with BN(O) passports, calling it an act of treachery and manipulation to turn a large proportion of the Hong Kong people into "second-class citizens."
Britain betrays trust over so-called BNO passport: various sectors in Hong Kong People's Daily 31 Jan 2021 -- In response to the British government's announcement of the so-called British National Overseas (BNO) passport and visa policy, various sectors in Hong Kong said it was a breach of trust and justice, and that it was natural for China to oppose it and take countermeasures.
British citizenship plan for Hong Kong residents leaves China less than impressed Press TV 31 Jan 2021 -- A British plan to offer Hong Kong residents a path to British citizenship will take effect on Sunday (January 31).
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 30 Jan 2021 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
UK Emergency Medical Team deployed to Eswatini to support coronavirus response UK FCDO 30 Jan 2021 -- UK medics will help treat some of the most serious coronavirus cases and stem the pandemic
China will no longer recognize UK-issued BNO passport People's Daily 30 Jan 2021 -- China will no longer recognize the so-called British National Overseas (BNO) passport as a travel document and ID document from Jan. 31, and reserves the right to take further actions, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told a regular news briefing Friday.
EU Drug Regulator Approves AstraZeneca Vaccine for Emergency Use VOA 29 Jan 2021 -- European Union regulators on Friday approved the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, the third vaccine approved for use on the European continent.
EU May Block Pfizer Vaccine Exports to UK to Ensure Stable Supplies Within Bloc – Reports Sputnik 29 Jan 2021 -- The European Union may block the export of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine to the United Kingdom as a means of retaining stable vaccine supplies for its member states, media reported.
UK records another 28,680 coronavirus cases, 1,239 deaths People's Daily 29 Jan 2021 -- Another 28,680 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 3,743,734, according to official figures released Thursday.
UK Records 1,245 More COVID-19 Deaths on Friday SPA 29 Jan 2021 -- The United Kingdom recorded a further 1,245 deaths within 28 days of a positive COVID-19 test on Friday, up from 1,239 the day before, Reuters quoted government data as showing.
UK Awaits Explanations From EU About Possible Vaccines Exports Control Sputnik 29 Jan 2021 -- The United Kingdom is waiting for an explanation from the European Commission about the bloc's intentions to control the export of coronavirus vaccines, including to Northern Ireland a country subject to the regulation of the European Single Market, the office of Prime Minister Boris Johnson said.
Three more countries added to UK travel "red list" amid coronavirus variant concerns Global Times 29 Jan 2021 -- The British government on Thursday announced its decision to ban travel from the United Arab Emirates, Burundi and Rwanda as it takes further action to prevent the spread of the COVID variant.
Hong Kong BN(O) visa: UK government to honour historic commitment Gov.UK 29 Jan 2021 -- The UK government will deliver on its commitment to open a new visa for Hong Kong BN(O) status holders on Sunday 31 January.
China Derecognizes BNO Passports as UK Launches Hong Kong Visa Scheme Radio Free Asia 29 Jan 2021 -- As the U.K. geared up to launch a new pathway to citizenship for Hong Kong residents amid an ongoing crackdown on public dissent, China said on Friday it will no longer recognize British National Overseas (BNO) passports that are the key to the scheme.
China Will No Longer Recognize Hong Kongers' British National Overseas Passport VOA 29 Jan 2021 -- China said Friday it will not recognize the British National Overseas passport for Hong Kong residents after Jan. 31, as Britain is planning to admit millions of people from its former colony to take residency and eventually British citizenship.
China rejects BN(O) passport as travel document Global Times 29 Jan 2021 -- China will no longer recognize so-called British National Overseas BN(O) passports as valid travel documents and identity certificates starting Sunday, the day when the UK opened applications for BN(O) holders in Hong Kong for British citizenship.
UK's scheme to offer Hong Kongers path to citizenship angers China Press TV 29 Jan 2021 -- The United Kingdom has launched an immigration visa scheme that will offer millions of qualifying Hong Kong citizens a path to British citizenship, with Beijing underlining that it would not recognize the immigration program, which comes in response to China's new security laws in the former colony.
China Will 'No Longer Recognise' UK-Issued BNO Passport for Hong Kongers Sputnik 29 Jan 2021 -- The UK government previously announced it would grant citizenship to up to 3 million of Hong Kong's residents starting Sunday. According to the Foreign Office, holders of British National Overseas passports will be able to apply to live and work in Britain for up to five years.
Britain Refuses EU's Demand for Vaccine Doses VOA 28 Jan 2021 -- A vaccine war has erupted between Britain and the European Union with Brussels demanding that tens of millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses earmarked for Britain, and made by a British pharmaceutical company, be diverted to Europe to make up for a shortfall in promised deliveries.
UK to impose mandatory hotel quarantine for arrivals returning from "red list" countries: PM People's Daily 28 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Wednesday that Britain will impose mandatory hotel quarantine for arrivals returning from "red list" countries.
UK-Linked Coronavirus Variant Cases in France Triple in Mere Weeks Sputnik 28 Jan 2021 -- France has seen three times more cases of the new coronavirus strain originating in the United Kingdom within less than a month, the French government's spokesman Gabriel Attal told the France Inter broadcaster on Thursday.
Defence Secretary visits Kenya and Somalia to discuss Al Shabaab UK MOD 28 Jan 2021 -- Ben Wallace travelled to the two East African nations to enhance security cooperation in the battle against terror group Al Shabaab and other shared threats.
National elections as the path to a stable Libya UK FCDO 28 Jan 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Jonathan Allen at the Security Council briefing on Libya
Tensions Escalate Between EU, AstraZeneca Over Vaccine Delivery VOA 27 Jan 2021 -- Tensions escalated Wednesday between the European Union and the British-Swedish drug maker AstraZeneca regarding the company's failure to meet a target to deliver 400 million doses of its COVD-19 vaccine to the regional bloc.
As UK Hits 100,000 COVID Deaths, Government Vows to 'Learn Lessons' VOA 27 Jan 2021 -- Looking through family photographs at his home in Leeds, England, Gordon Bonner, 86, said he was lost in a "hinterland of despair and desolation." It's been nine months since Muriel, his wife of 63 years, died from COVID-19. He was called to her bedside for the final moments.
UK coronavirus-related death toll tops 100,000 People's Daily 27 Jan 2021 -- The number of people who died within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test in Britain has surpassed 100,000 after another 1,631 have been confirmed, according to official figures released Tuesday.
Secretary Blinken's Call with UK Foreign Secretary Raab US Dept. of State 27 Jan 2021
Readout - Foreign Secretary call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken UK FCDO 27 Jan 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has spoken with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken
£230 million contract to bolster Royal Navy torpedoes UK MOD 27 Jan 2021 -- Cutting-edge Spearfish and Sting Ray torpedoes carried by the Royal Navy are receiving a £230 million maintenance uplift.
Britain Surpasses 100K COVID-19 Deaths VOA 26 Jan 2021 -- Britain's health department reported Tuesday the nation's death toll from COVID-19 has surpassed 100,000 people.
UK passes grim milestone of 100,000 Covid-19 deaths Press TV 26 Jan 2021 -- The Covid-19 pandemic has now claimed more than 100,000 lives in the UK, thus bringing the government's mishandling of the crisis into even sharper relief.
Normalisation should help deliver Israeli-Palestinian peace UK FCDO 26 Jan 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the Security Council briefing on the Middle East
Reiterating the UK's full support for the Secretary-General's call for a global ceasefire UK FCDO 26 Jan 2021 -- Statement by UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward at Security Council briefing on resolution 2532 on Covid-19
£30-million injection for UK's first uncrewed fighter aircraft UK MOD 25 Jan 2021 -- The UK's first fleet of uncrewed fighter aircraft is one step closer to reality following a £30-million contract to design and manufacture a prototype in a three-year deal supporting more than 100 jobs in Belfast.
"Naval Defender 21" Exercise Continues with Participation of US, British Forces SPA 25 Jan 2021 -- The Royal Saudi Naval Forces continues, with participation of its counterpart United States' Navy and a British Minesweeper, at the Eastern Fleet site, in Jubail.
Readout of President Joseph R. Biden Call with Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom The White House 23 Jan 2021
Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's Call With U.K. Secretary of State for Defense Ben Wallace DoD 23 Jan 2021
Role Reversal for US and Post-Brexit Britain VOA 22 Jan 2021 -- Well-placed geographically and politically between America and Europe, Britain has long marketed itself as the diplomatic bridge linking the two continents.
Britain's COVID-19 lockdown may not end until summer: Johnson Press TV 22 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has become more cautious about ending the national coronavirus lockdown, saying that tough measures may continue into the spring and even beyond, as a top scientific adviser compared some hospitals in the country to "a war zone."
UK records another 37,892 coronavirus cases, 1,290 deaths People's Daily 22 Jan 2021 -- Another 37,892 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 3,543,646, according to official figures released Thursday.
UK records highest daily coronavirus death toll People's Daily 21 Jan 2021 -- Another 1,820 people in Britain have died within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test, the highest number of deaths reported on a single day since the outbreak began in the country, according to official figures released Wednesday.
£102-million investment in detect and destroy system for British Army UK MOD 21 Jan 2021 -- The British Army has invested £102-million in a high-end surveillance system which allows frontline soldiers to detect and engage enemy targets in seconds.
Joint Statement on the Situation in Libya US Dept. of State 21 Jan 2021 -- The following joint statement was issued by the Governments of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.
UK joint statement on progress made by the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum UK FCDO 21 Jan 2021 -- The Governments of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States respond to recent progress made by the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum.
Ensuring humanitarian access and a political solution to end crises in Syria UK FCDO 20 Jan 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Jonathan Allen at the Security Council briefing on Syria
UK Reports Record 1,820 New COVID-19 Deaths on Wednesday SPA 20 Jan 2021 -- Britain reported a record number of deaths from COVID-19 on Wednesday, with 1,820 people dying within 28 days of positive coronavirus test, surpassing the previous peak set a day earlier, Reuters cited the British government data as showing.
Iraq approves use of Chinese, British COVID-19 vaccines; Israel extends lockdown for 10 days People's Daily 20 Jan 2021 -- Iraq on Tuesday approved the emergency use of China's Sinopharm and British AstraZeneca vaccines to contain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, Israel decided to extend nationwide lockdown for 10 days.
UK coronavirus-related deaths top 90,000 People's Daily 20 Jan 2021 -- The number of people who have died within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test has surpassed the grim milestone of 90,000 in Britain after another 1,610 were confirmed, according to official figures released Tuesday.
Record Covid-19 deaths as pandemic shows no sign of abating Press TV 19 Jan 2021 -- A record number of people have died of Covid-19 in the UK in the past 24 hours as the latest surge in the pandemic – driven mostly by the new coronavirus variant dubbed the "British Virus" – continues to exact a heavy human toll.
Joint Statement on Carrier Strike Group 2021 Joint Declaration Signing UK MOD 19 Jan 2021 -- Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and US Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher C. Miller have co-signed the UK-US Joint Declaration for the Carrier Strike Group 2021 deployment.
Statement on Carrier Strike Group 2021 Joint Declaration Signing DoD 19 Jan 2021 -- Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher C. Miller and UK Secretary of State for Defense Ben Wallace have co-signed the Joint Declaration for the Carrier Strike Group 2021 deployment.
Iran Producing Half-a-Kilo of High-Grade Uranium Fuel Per Day, Says Atomic Energy Chief Sputnik 19 Jan 2021 -- The UK, France and Germany issued a joint statement on Saturday condemning Iran for resuming high-grade uranium enrichment in breach of the 2015 nuclear energy deal — which Washington pulled out of in 2017, re-imposing sanctions on Tehran.
100 UK armoured patrol vehicles donated to the Lebanese Army UK MOD 18 Jan 2021 -- The vehicles, worth £1.5 million, will further reinforce the stability on the Lebanese border with Syria.
Foreign Secretary statement: Arrest of Alexey Navalny UK FCDO 18 Jan 2021 -- The Foreign Secretary has responded to the arrest of Alexey Navalny by the Russian authorities
UK plans to end COVID-19 lockdown in March: local media People's Daily 18 Jan 2021 -- The British government is planning to end the COVID-19 lockdown in March after cabinet members agreed that waiting until the summer when most people will have been vaccinated would lead to yet more economic misery, British media reported Sunday.
UK records another 38,598 coronavirus cases People's Daily 18 Jan 2021 -- Another 38,598 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, the lowest daily increase since the start of the year, according to official figures released Sunday.
More than 4 million Britons receive first COVID-19 vaccine dose, official reports say SPA 18 Jan 2021 -- More than four million people have received the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in Britain, according to official data on Monday which showed there had been a further 37,535 cases reported and 599 deaths within 28 days of a positive test, Reuters quoted the report as saying.
UK 'seriously concerned' by Israel's West Bank settlement expansion Press TV 18 Jan 2021 -- The British government has expressed serious concern about Israeli plans to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank, calling for an immediate halt to the illegal construction as the move could threaten future peace negotiations.
Enhancing cooperation between the Arab nations and bringing peace and stability to the region UK FCDO 18 Jan 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the Security Council briefing on cooperation between the UN and the League of Arab States
Gibraltar Set to Drop Border Restrictions With Spain in New Post-Brexit Agreement Sputnik 17 Jan 2021 -- The United Kingdom formally left the European Union's structures on 31 December 2020. Gibraltar, which is a British Overseas Territory (BOT), shares a border with Spain, which remains an EU member. While the UK has rejected free movement, a new post-Brexit agreement for the rock would allow for eased movement between the two.
AEOI rejects E3 accusation of military implications in uranium metal production Press TV 17 Jan 2021 -- Iran's atomic energy organization responds to a statement by the three European signatories to the landmark 2015 nuclear deal, rejecting the accusation that its plan to produce uranium metal-based fuel has military implications.
UK to close all travel corridors to keep out new COVID variants Global Times 16 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Friday that Britain will close all travel corridors to the country from 0400 GMT on Monday in a bid to keep out new coronavirus variants.
AEOI issues statement in response to E3 IRNA 16 Jan 2021 -- The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) in response to three European countries' remarks in a statement on Saturday reiterated the issue of metallic uranium factory differs from the production of advanced fuel, silicide, to be used in Tehran Research Reactor (TRR).
E3 calls on Iran to halt R&D activities aimed at producing new fuel for Tehran reactor Press TV 16 Jan 2021 -- The three European signatories to a landmark 2015 nuclear agreement signed between Iran and major world powers have called on Tehran to halt its research and development (R&D) activities, claiming they are against the deal.
France, Britain, Germany Call On Iran To Halt Uranium Metal Work RFE/RL 16 Jan 2021 -- European powers have warned Iran against starting work on uranium metal-based fuel for a research reactor, saying it contravened the 2015 nuclear deal.
E3 Statement on the JCPoA: 16 January 2021 UKFCDO 16 Jan 2021
UK bans arrivals from South American countries, Portugal over new coronavirus variant People's Daily 15 Jan 2021 -- The British government on Thursday announced its decision to ban arrivals from more than a dozen South American countries and Portugal starting from Friday, after the detection of a new coronavirus variant.
UK records 55,761 new cases of COVID-19, 3.2 mln people now vaccinated SPA 15 Jan 2021 -- Britain recorded 55,761 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, an increase on the 48,682 cases recorded the previous day, with the number of people receiving a first dose of the vaccination rising to 3.2 million, according to government data, Reuters reported.
UK records 1,248 new COVID-19 deaths, down from record level SPA 15 Jan 2021 -- Britain reported 1,248 new deaths within 28 days of a positive COVID-19 test on Thursday, down from a record high of more than 1,500 seen the previous day, Reuters reported.
Britain to Require COVID-19 Tests for Visitors to Prevent New Strains VOA 15 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Friday that travel corridors into the nation would be closed to fight the spread of COVID-19.
British Army trains 500th Somali soldier in infantry skills UK MOD 15 Jan 2021 -- Troops from Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment shared key military skills with Somali National Army soldiers to help them conduct effective security operations.
Taking swift action on the economy, humanitarian funding and humanitarian access in Yemen UK FCDO 14 Jan 2021 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the Security Council briefing on Yemen
£76m contract boosts F-35 Lightning fleet support UK MOD 14 Jan 2021 -- A £76 million aircraft support contract, supporting more than 170 jobs, will maximise the availability and capability of the UK's F-35 Lightning stealth jets, ensuring they are ready for combat operations across the globe.
Scotland Further Tightens COVID-19 Restrictions VOA 13 Jan 2021 -- Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced Wednesday the government will tighten its lockdown measures, while stepping up its vaccination program in an effort to halt the spread of COVID-19 in the country.
British Health Secretary Hopes Current Situation is Peak of Pandemic VOA 13 Jan 2021 -- British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said Wednesday he is hoping the nation's current situation is the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, as infection rates and hospitalizations are at or near record levels.
UK police to be "quicker" to enforce coronavirus lockdown rules: official People's Daily 13 Jan 2021 -- British police will be "quicker" to enforce restriction rules during England's national lockdown amid mounting concerns over some of the public bending the curb rules, a senior British official said Tuesday.
UK records another 45,533 coronavirus cases, 1,243 deaths People's Daily 13 Jan 2021 -- Another 45,533 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 3,164,051, according to official figures released Tuesday.
Britain: Boris Johnson Says COVID-19 Lockdown is 'Working' as Hospital Cases Fall Sputnik 13 Jan 2021 -- PM Boris Johnson promised a "phased" relaxation of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions — currently at nationwide lockdown level — once the nearly-14 million most vulnerable had been vaccinated against the deadly virus.
Record 5,300 UK Armed Forces Servicemen Engaged in COVID-19 Response, Government Says Sputnik 13 Jan 2021 -- The record 5,300 servicemen of the United Kingdom's Armed Forces are engaged in COVID-19 operation across the UK and abroad, and play crucial role in providing support to the National Health Service (NHS), the government said on Wednesday.
UK Reports 1,564 COVID Deaths, New Record and 47,525 Cases SPA 13 Jan 2021 -- Britain today, on Wednesday reported 1,564 new deaths within 28 days of a positive test from COVID-19, a record daily toll, with another 47,525 additional cases, Reuters reported.
Boris Johnson describes 'very very tough' situation as Covid-19 deaths hit new record Press TV 13 Jan 2021 -- Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has acknowledged the scale of the latest Covid-19 crisis by admitting the situation is "very, very tough" and the strain on the National Health Service (NHS) staff is "colossal".
UK records highest daily death toll since start of COVID-19 People's Daily 14 Jan 2021 -- Another 1,564 have died within 28 days of a positive test, the highest daily increase since the pandemic began in the country, according to official figures released Wednesday.
British Lawmakers Demand 'Coherent' Policy Toolkit to Counter China VOA 13 Jan 2021 -- The world's leading democracies should form a coalition to counter China's human rights abuses at home and its support for authoritarianism overseas, according to a prominent group of British lawmakers.
China urges UK, Canada to revoke Xinjiang imports ban Global Times 13 Jan 2021 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday urged Canada and UK to immediately revoke their measures on imports from Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, saying such untenable measures were made based on lies and false information and were only a farce made by a few politicians.
Beijing Urges London, Ottawa to Cancel Restrictions on Imports From China's Xinjiang Sputnik 13 Jan 2021 -- China is calling on the United Kingdom and Canada to withdraw restrictions on trade with companies from the province of Xinjiang imposed under the false pretext of human rights violations and the use of forced labour, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Wednesday.
Covid-19 cause of more 'excess deaths' in UK since World War Two Press TV 12 Jan 2021 -- The full scale of the coronavirus pandemic's impact on UK public health and demographics is beginning to emerge, and the details make for grim reading.
British Officials Crack Down on COVID-19 Rule Violators VOA 12 Jan 2021 -- A top British police official Tuesday said officers have issued about 45,000 fines for violations of COVID-19 restrictions and that they will issue more to keep the infection from spreading.
Divisions emerge between police and government over lockdown rules Press TV 12 Jan 2021 -- As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to exact a terrible toll on the health and lives of British citizens, there are signs that divisions are forming between senior police officers and the upper reaches of government over the management of the crisis.
UK PM warns of "false complacency" amid coronavirus vaccine rollout People's Daily 12 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday warned against "false complacency" as the country is seeking to speed up the coronavirus vaccine rollout.
Britain Launches Largest Ever Vaccination Program VOA 11 Jan 2021 -- The British government Monday launched an ambitious coronavirus vaccination plan, with the goal of having 15 million citizens inoculated by the middle of next month.
UK Unveils Vaccination Plan, Says Meeting Target With 2.3Mln Already Vaccinated Sputnik 11 Jan 2021 -- The UK government on Monday unveiled a mammoth vaccination distribution plan to cover tens of millions of people in the country.
Flexing COVID lockdown rules "could be fatal": UK health secretary People's Daily 11 Jan 2021 -- British Health Secretary Matt Hancock on Sunday warned that flexing the COVID-19 lockdown rules "could be fatal", urging the general public to stay at home amid surging coronavirus infections.
UK records another 54,940 coronavirus cases, 563 deaths People's Daily 11 Jan 2021 -- Another 54,940 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 3,072,349, according to official figures released Sunday.
Concerns mount over UK's mass Covid-19 vaccination program Press TV 11 Jan 2021 -- As the pandemic rages in the UK, driven for the most part by the new coronavirus variant, popularly referred to as the "British Virus", the British government has been at pains to showcase its success in rolling out a mass vaccination program.
British, South African COVID Variants Spreading Around Globe VOA 10 Jan 2021 -- The British variant of the COVID-19 virus, thought by scientists to be much more contagious, has been found in France and Russia, according to news reports Sunday.
NHS under 'very serious pressure' as Covid-related hospital admissions soar Press TV 10 Jan 2021 -- As coronavirus infections reach new highs on a daily basis, there are signs the National Health Service (NHS) is beginning to creak under the pressure.
Britain's Hospitals Facing 'Worst Crisis in Living Memory' VOA 10 Jan 2021 -- Britain's hospitals are on the brink of being overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients and the country's National Health Service is facing its "worst crisis in living memory," a senior government official warned Sunday.
HK govt refutes 'appalling' joint statement by Australia, US, UK, Canada Global Times 10 Jan 2021 -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on Sunday refuted the joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, UK and US over the arrested Hong Kong anti-government figures, saying it is "appalling" to see some foreign government officials make comments that seemingly suggest people holding certain political beliefs should be immune to legal sanctions.
European Powers to Boost Asia Presence to Counter China VOA 09 Jan 2021 -- Germany, France and Britain each plan to boost their military presence in the Indo-Pacific region, a move analysts say is aimed at countering China and showing support for the U.S., Japan and other regional allies.
Joint Statement on Hong Kong US Dept. of State 09 Jan 2021 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
London Mayor Declares 'Major Incident' Due To COVID-19 Threat VOA 08 Jan 2021 -- London Mayor Sadiq Khan Friday declared a "major incident" in the city, due to the rapid spread of COVID-19 there, which he said could overwhelm the National Health Service if it remains unchecked.
UK records highest daily COVID-19 death toll since April People's Daily 08 Jan 2021 -- Britain reported a further 1,162 coronavirus-related deaths in the latest 24-hour period, the highest since April 21, official figures showed Thursday.
UK Royal Air Force F-35 Jets to Get Third-Generation Spear Missiles Sputnik 08 Jan 2021 -- The UK Department of Defence has signed a contract to supply the British Royal Air Force (RAF) with Spear 3 missiles.
UK records highest coronavirus death toll since April, with new high in daily cases Global Times 07 Jan 2021 -- Britain reported a further 1,041 coronavirus-related deaths in the latest 24-hour period, the highest since April, official figures showed Wednesday.
UK lawmakers overwhelmingly approve England lockdown People's Daily 07 Jan 2021 -- British lawmakers on Wednesday overwhelmingly approved the government's decision to impose the new national lockdown in England, the third of its kind since the coronavirus pandemic began in the country.
Britain's Johnson Defends Lockdown Decision to Parliament VOA 06 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson told parliament Wednesday that the government had "no choice but to return to a national lockdown," as health officials estimate that one in every 50 people in the nation have had COVID-19 in the last week.
UK faces new lockdown with tougher battle ahead against COVID-19 pandemic People's Daily 06 Jan 2021 -- Millions of Britons woke up Tuesday to face new strict lockdown measures requiring them to stay indoors as COVID-19 infections continue to spiral upwards.
Boris Johnson warns of extended lockdown as death toll mounts Press TV 06 Jan 2021 -- Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has dashed hopes of a timely end to England's lockdown by saying the latest tough restrictions will not be removed with a "big bang" but instead there will be a "gradual unwrapping".
New daily coronavirus cases in UK top 60,000 for first time People's Daily 06 Jan 2021 -- The number of new daily confirmed cases of coronavirus in Britain topped 60,000 for the first time on Tuesday since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, official figures showed.
New daily coronavirus cases in UK top 60,000 for first time Global Times 06 Jan 2021 -- The number of new daily confirmed cases of coronavirus in Britain topped 60,000 for the first time on Tuesday since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, official figures showed.
£550m F-35 missile contract signed UK MOD 06 Jan 2021 -- A £550 million contract for new surface-attack missiles will secure hundreds of UK jobs and provide unrivalled lethality for the UK's F-35B Lightning jets, Defence Minister Jeremy Quin announced today.
European Powers Say Iran's Enrichment Could Undermine Nuclear Diplomacy RFE/RL 06 Jan 2021 -- Britain, France, and Germany have called on Iran to reverse its decision to restart uranium enrichment at the 20 percent level, describing the move as "a serious negative development" in violation of a 2015 nuclear accord.
UK, France, Germany Say Iran's 20% Uranium Enrichment Threatens Chances for Diplomacy Sputnik 06 Jan 2021 -- The United Kingdom, France and Germany expressed their concerns on Wednesday over Iran's move to resume uranium enrichment up to 20 percent at the Fordow facility, warning that it may shatter chances for "a return to diplomacy" under the incoming Joe Biden administration in the United States.
Hong Kong pro-democracy arrests: Foreign Secretary statement UK FCDO 06 Jan 2021 -- Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab comments on the arrest of over 50 pro-democracy politicians and activists under the National Security Law in Hong Kong.
British Judge Denies Bail to WikiLeaks' Founder Assange VOA 06 Jan 2021 -- A British judge has rejected a request to release WikiLeaks' founder Julian Assange on bail, ordering him to remain incarcerated while British courts determine whether he should face espionage charges in the United States.
British Judge Denies Bail To Assange As U.S. Appeals Decision Blocking Extradition RFE/RL Gandhara 06 Jan 2021 -- A British judge has denied bail to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange two days after she rejected an extradition request by the United States to face charges over the publication of secret U.S. military documents.
Julian Assange denied bail by the Old Bailey Press TV 06 Jan 2021 -- Barely two days after his extradition to the US was blocked on health grounds, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been denied bail by the Old Bailey in London.
UK Judge Denies Bail for Julian Assange During US Extradition Appeal Sputnik 06 Jan 2021 -- Judge Baraitser has repeatedly refused to grant the WikiLeaks publisher bail, declined to intervene with prison authorities to improve Assange's access to his legal team and case files, and failed to address his alleged mistreatment at the hands of prison officials.
UN human rights expert 'cautiously' welcomes UK court's refusal to extradite Julian Assange UN News 05 Jan 2021 -- An independent UN human rights expert has welcomed a British court's refusal to extradite Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to the United States on the basis that he would be exposed to oppressive conditions of imprisonment.
European Health Officials Cast Nervous Eye at Britain's Struggling Hospitals VOA 05 Jan 2021 -- Last April, European medical workers watched with rising horror as the health care system in parts of northern Italy buckled, overwhelmed by wave after wave of COVID-19-related patients.
Britain in Lockdown as Hospitals 'Overwhelmed' Amid New Coronavirus Outbreak VOA 05 Jan 2021 -- Britain entered another strict national lockdown Tuesday, amid a sudden and sharp resurgence in cases of COVID-19 linked to a new variant of the coronavirus.
Scotland's Sturgeon Says Trump Can't Come to Play Golf VOA 05 Jan 2021 -- Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said Tuesday that because of the newly-imposed COVID-19 lockdown, U.S. President Donald Trump would not be allowed in to play golf in the coming weeks.
Boris Johnson: More than a million people infected with Covid-19 in England Press TV 05 Jan 2021 -- Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has painted a grim picture of the coronavirus situation in England barely a day after he imposed the third national lockdown on the country.
Britain imposes fresh lockdown as new COVID-19 variant rampages Press TV 05 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has introduced a new lockdown for England in a bid to stem a surge in coronavirus cases driven by the new variant.
UK PM announces new coronavirus lockdown for England People's Daily 05 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Monday that England will enter a national lockdown from midnight, the third of its kind since the coronavirus pandemic began in the country.
UK PM to set out "further steps" to curb rising COVID infections: spokesman People's Daily 05 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will make a televised address Monday evening to set out "further steps" to fight the spread of COVID-19, according to a Downing Street spokesman.
UK records highest daily increase in coronavirus cases People's Daily 05 Jan 2021 -- Another 58,784 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, marking the highest daily increase in coronavirus cases since the pandemic began in the country, according to official figures released Monday.
Over 5,000 armed forces deployed in support of the COVID-19 response in the biggest homeland operation in peacetime UK MOD 04 Jan 2021 -- Over 5,000 UK Armed Forces personnel are currently deployed to support the response to the Coronavirus across the UK, working on 70 different tasks ranging from schools testing to the rollout of vaccines.
New COVID-19 Lockdowns in Britain; New Variant Found in New York VOA 04 Jan 2021 -- Britain's prime minister announced a fresh round of lockdowns Monday, closing schools and nonessential shops, as the country begins vaccinating health care workers and the elderly.
Scotland to Impose Full Lockdown as COVID-19 Cases Surge VOA 04 Jan 2021 -- Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said Monday the country will impose a total lockdown for the rest of January as a surging number of COVID-19 cases threatens to overwhelm hospitals.
UK needs tougher restrictions to tackle coronavirus: Health minister Press TV 04 Jan 2021 -- British Health Secretary Matt Hancock has called for tighter restrictions in some areas of the country to contain the rapid spread of a new variant of the coronavirus.
UK PM Johnson Announces Third National Lockdown as New Strain Runs Riot Sputnik 04 Jan 2021 -- More than 50,000 new cases of COVID-19 were recorded in the UK on Sunday, despite almost the entire country being under the two most-severe levels of restrictions and almost a million people already immunised against the virus.
Nicola Sturgeon orders national lockdown in Scotland Press TV 04 Jan 2021 -- Scotland's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has announced a nationwide lockdown beginning at midnight Tuesday (January 05).
UK records another 54,990 coronavirus cases, 454 deaths People's Daily 04 Jan 2021 -- Another 54,990 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 2,654,779, according to official figures released Sunday.
UK PM warns of tougher restrictions to curb rising coronavirus infections People's Daily 04 Jan 2021 -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Sunday that regional restrictions in England are "probably about to get tougher" in the coming weeks to curb rising coronavirus infections.
Top London hospital preparing for "COVID-only care" as intensive care patients soar People's Daily 04 Jan 2021 -- University College hospital, one of London's biggest hospitals, is battling to accommodate the fast-rising number of COVID-19 patients across the capital, warning that it is "on track to be almost COVID-only" as intensive care patients soar, local media reported.
Carrier Strike Group hits important milestone UK MOD 04 Jan 2021 -- The UK's Carrier Strike Group (CSG) has achieved a major milestone ahead of its first operational deployment this year.
Britain Refuses to Extradite 'Suicidal' WikiLeaks Founder to US VOA 04 Jan 2021 -- A British judge has ruled that Julian Assange, the founder of the whistleblowing website WikiLeaks, cannot be extradited to the United States because of the risk he could commit suicide in U.S. detention.
British Judge Rules WikiLeaks Founder Assange Can't Be Extradited To U.S. RFE/RL Gandhara 04 Jan 2021 -- A British judge has rejected a U.S. request to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to face charges over the publication of secret U.S. military documents because of concerns over his mental health.
UK court blocks Assange extradition to US, citing 'suicide fears' Press TV 04 Jan 2021 -- The founder of whistleblower website WikiLeaks Julian Assange should not be extradited to the United States to face trial for espionage charges, according to a UK judge.
UK Court Ruling Against Assange's Extradition Victory for All Journalists, Lawyer Says Sputnik 04 Jan 2021 -- The decision of a UK court to block WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange's extradition to the United States is a victory for all journalists, the whistleblower's Ecuadorean lawyer, Carlos Poveda, told Sputnik on Monday.
UK records highest daily increase in coronavirus cases People's Daily 03 Jan 2021 -- Another 57,725 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, marking the highest daily increase in coronavirus cases since the pandemic began in the country, according to official figures released Saturday.
Labor leader Keir Starmer calls for new national lockdown Press TV 03 Jan 2021 -- Labor Party leader, Keir Starmer, has taken the initiative on the spiraling Covid-19 crisis by urging the government to "impose" a new national lockdown "within 24 hours".
Britain Warns of New Lockdowns Amid Coronavirus Surge, Variant VOA 03 Jan 2021 -- Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned Sunday of new lockdowns to be issued across the country as cases of the coronavirus surge, particularly with a new variant spreading.
China warns UK against deploying warships to South China Sea Press TV 03 Jan 2021 -- China has sent a stern warning to the United Kingdom against plans to deploy warships to the disputed South China Sea, threatening that such a "hostile" move would provoke retaliation from Beijing.
Beijing Vows to Retaliate Against UK Aircraft Carrier's Possible Mission in S. China Sea Sputnik 02 Jan 2021 -- Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Tan Kefei has warned the Western powers against sending warships to the South China Sea, vowing that Beijing may retaliate.
Britain Reactivates Emergency Hospitals Amid Surge in COVID Infections VOA 01 Jan 2021 -- British health officials are reactivating emergency hospitals that were built at the start of the pandemic as the country struggles to cope with the spread of a more infectious variant of the coronavirus.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

January 2021 - United Kingdom Special Weapons News