bbc--2020-01-11--Prince Harry and Meghan: Talks 'progressing well' over couple's future

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex hope talks over their future roles in the Royal Family can be concluded `` sooner rather than later '' , a source has told PA news agency .
Meetings are said to be `` progressing well '' , with the UK and Canadian governments consulted .
The couple have said they plan to step back as senior royals and split their time between the UK and North America .
Meghan has returned to Canada to join her son Archie amid the ongoing talks .
The family spent Christmas there , before returning to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from royal duties .
The Queen , the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge have asked senior staff to work with the Sussex household and government to find a solution within days , according to BBC royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell .
• Your questions answered on Harry and Meghan statement • Why Meghan and Harry have Canada in their sights Speaking about the duke and duchess , a source told PA news agency : `` They , like everyone , are hopeful this can all be worked out , sooner rather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone 's interest for this to be figured out , and figured out quickly , but not at the expense of the outcome . ''
Meanwhile , the couple 's official Instagram account returned to publicising their appearances .
Pictures were posted showing the couple during a private visit on Tuesday to a community kitchen in north Kensington , west London , which cooked meals for families displaced by the Grenfell Tower fire and contributed to a recipe book backed by Meghan .
In their statement on Wednesday , the duke and duchess @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` revised media approach '' , engaging with `` grassroots media organisations '' and using their Instagram account , which has more than 10 million followers , to `` personally share moments in their lives directly with members of the public '' .
The Royal Family was said to be `` hurt '' at the couple 's announcement about their plans to step back as senior royals .
Palace sources have told BBC royal correspondent Jonny Dymond that Prince Harry and Meghan did not consult any other royal about making their personal statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Royal Family about the Sussexes ' future - but they were at an early stage , he said .
In their announcement on Wednesday evening , Prince Harry and Meghan revealed they intend `` to step back as 'senior ' members of the Royal Family , and work to become financially independent '' .
They plan to split their time between the UK and North America , while `` continuing to honour our duty to the Queen , the Commonwealth , and our patronages '' .
The decision came `` after many months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they added .
Despite the couple 's decision , Harry will remain sixth in line to the throne .
• Where do Prince Harry and Meghan get their money ?
• How Meghan ‘ tripped and fell ’ into Harry ’ s life Former royal press secretary Dickie Arbiter said attempting to be `` half in and half out '' of the Royal Family had been tried before 30 years ago by the Earl and Countess of Wessex and `` it did n't work '' .
The pair both experienced difficulties pursuing careers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full-time `` working royals '' .
`` You 're either a royal or you 're not a royal - you ca n't have one leg in one camp and another leg in another camp , '' Mr Arbiter said , adding that Prince Harry had a number of senior roles which could not be done in a `` half-hearted way '' .
US President Donald Trump told Fox News he thought the announcement from Harry and Meghan was `` sad '' .
He said : `` I do n't want to get into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such respect for the Queen , it should n't be happening to her . ''
Last October , Prince Harry and Meghan publicly revealed their struggles under the media spotlight .
After returning to the UK after their six-week break in Canada on Tuesday , Harry , 35 , and Meghan , 38 , visited Canada 's High Commission in London to thank the country for hosting them and said the warmth and hospitality they had received was `` unbelievable '' .
Former actress Meghan , who is American , lived and worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the popular US drama Suits , and she has several Canadian friends .
The pair were already preparing to launch their own Sussex Royal charity , which they set up after splitting from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge 's foundation in June last year .
It was revealed in December the couple had made an application to trademark their Sussex Royal brand across a string of items including books , calendars , clothing , charitable fundraising , education and social care services .
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bbc--2020-01-11--Taiwan election: Tsai bids for second term against contender Han

Polls have closed in Taiwan 's presidential election , whose outcome will shape the island 's relationship with China .
Tsai Ing-wen , running for a second term , favours the status quo , and does not want closer ties with Beijing .
Meanwhile , her main rival , Han Kuo-yu , promises to ease tensions with China .
Ahead of the vote , Ms Tsai was leading in the polls - which some observers attribute to her support for the protests in Hong Kong .
Her stance is popular with those who fear Taiwan being overtaken by mainland China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unified with the mainland one day .
President Tsai insists Taiwan 's future should be decided by its 23 million people .
Voters were also choosing the next members of the Taiwanese legislature , where Ms Tsai 's party has had a majority .
About 19 million people were registered to vote in Saturday 's election .
Polling stations closed at 16:00 ( 08:00 GMT ) and results are expected before the end of the day .
For practical purposes , Taiwan is an independent state - it has its own elected government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has claimed sovereignty over it since the end of the Chinese civil war in 1949 .
It says Taiwan must eventually be reunited with China , by force if necessary .
China refuses to have diplomatic relations with any country that recognises Taiwan as a sovereign nation .
All but a handful of countries have picked Beijing , but most maintain an ambiguous relationship with Taiwan through trade .
The US is also legally bound to supply Taiwan with the means to defend itself .
Where do the candidates stand on China ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ existing mechanisms '' , according to her website - meaning she does not want to compromise Taiwan 's de facto independence .
In a speech on the Hong Kong protests in June , she said `` anyone who tries to undermine Taiwan 's sovereignty and democracy , or use them as political bargaining chips , will fail '' .
She had also rejected Taiwan ever operating under the `` one country , two systems '' political system used in Hong Kong since it returned to China in 1997 - calling it `` not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this week , she said Taiwan should `` learn a lesson '' from Hong Kong : `` If we do n't insist [ on maintaining Taiwan 's independence ] , we 'll be losing everything we have now . ''
Mr Han and his party the Kuomintang ( KMT ) favour closer ties with China - which they say will bring economic growth - but do not seek unification .
The KMT once ruled China , before fleeing to Taiwan in 1949 after losing to the communist forces in the civil war .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hong Kong and China in March , and has reportedly said a formal declaration of Taiwanese independence would be `` scarier then syphilis '' .
A third candidate , James Soong , is running for his minor People First Party .
What are the other issues ?
Although the economy has grown during Ms Tsai 's presidency , exports have fallen and wage growth is sluggish .
Saturday is also the first presidential election since Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage .
The move was rejected in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a special law in order to comply with an earlier court ruling .
Ms Tsai said it was `` a big step towards true equality '' .
What are the candidates ' backgrounds ?
Ms Tsai , 63 , was a law professor before entering politics .
She studied at Cornell in the US and the London School of Economics , as well as in Taiwan .
She is accused of being elitist , but her stance on same-sex marriage , language rights and other issues have won her support among younger voters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mayor of Kaohsiung , is seen as more down-to-earth , and has projected a plain-talking everyman image .
He has embraced nicknames , including `` bald guy '' , and a recent talk-show appearance saw the host apologise for poking fun at him .
`` Continue , everyone is happy , '' he replied .
`` It 's good in a society with a democratic and free atmosphere ... just one request , no jokes about my hairline ! ''

All but a handful of countries have picked Beijing, but most maintain an ambiguous relationship with Taiwan through trade. The US is also legally bound to supply Taiwan with the means to defend itself.


bbc--2020-01-11--Grizelda Grootboom: 'How my best friend trafficked me for sex'

Grizelda Grootboom was trafficked by a `` friend '' when she was 18 years old .
She was tied in @ @ @ @ @ in Johannesburg and was forced to work as a sex slave .
She has since @ @ @ @ @ Exit '' to help get women out of sex slavery and prostitution .
According to @ @ @ @ @ women in Africa are being trafficked every year .

Grizelda Grootboom is a victim of sex trafficking, but the reality that she was trafficked by her best friend is hurting her more.
She said the incident happened when she decided to relocate from Cape Town to Johannesburg in hopes of starting life afresh with someone she called a 'friend' when she was 18 years old.
The United Nations says thousands of women in Africa are being trafficked every year.
Grizelda Grootboom has since written a book called ‘Exit’ to help get women out of sex slavery and prostitution.
Video producers: Anne Okumu and Thuthuka Zondi for The She Word.


bbc--2020-01-11--Tortoise with species-saving sex drive returns to Galápagos

A giant tortoise whose legendary libido has been credited with saving his species from extinction is to return to the wild on the Galápagos Islands .
Diego was among 14 male tortoises selected to take part in a breeding programme on Santa Cruz Island .
The programme has been a success , producing more than 2,000 giant tortoises since it began in the 1960s .
Diego 's sex drive was said to be one of the main reasons .
The 100-year-old tortoise has fathered hundreds of progeny , around 800 by some estimates .
The programme has now finished , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ native island of Española in March , the Galápagos National Parks service ( PNG ) said .
• Fireworks banned on the Galapagos to protect wildlife He will join a 1,800-strong tortoise population , at least 40 % of which park rangers believe he has fathered .
`` He 's contributed a large percentage to the lineage that we are returning to Española , '' Jorge Carrion , the park 's director , told AFP news agency .
`` There 's a feeling of happiness to have the possibility of returning that tortoise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ park service believes Diego was taken from the Galápagos 80 years ago by a scientific expedition .
Around 50 years ago , there were only two males and 12 females of Diego 's species alive on Espanola .
To save his species , Chelonoidis hoodensis , Diego was brought in from California 's San Diego Zoo .
Diego is currently in quarantine before his triumphant return to Española , considered one of the oldest parts of the Galápagos .
The Galápagos Islands , 906km ( 563 miles ) west of continental Ecuador , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worldwide for their unique array of plants and wildlife .
The indigenous species found on the Galápagos , including iguanas and tortoises , played a key role in the development of Charles Darwin 's Theory of Evolution .
Tourists across the globe travel there to see its biodiversity .

A giant tortoise whose legendary libido has been credited with saving his species from extinction is to return to the wild on the Galápagos Islands.


bbc--2020-01-11--Kim-Trump personal relations 'not enough to resume' US-North Korea talks

North Korea has received birthday greetings from US President Donald Trump for Kim Jong-un , but says their personal relationship is not enough to restart nuclear negotiations .
Mr Kim could personally like Mr Trump , but would not lead his country on the basis of his feelings , said foreign ministry adviser Kim Kye Gwan .
He said no talks were possible unless the US accepted the North 's demands .
Relations between the two countries have deteriorated in recent months .
Mr Kim and Mr Trump held face-to-face talks in 2018 and last year aimed at denuclearisation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refuses to lift sanctions until North Korea fully abandons its nuclear programme .
In a statement carried out by state news agency KCNA , Mr Kye , a veteran diplomat who was involved in previous disarmament negotiations , said Pyongyang would not give up its nuclear facilities in return for partial sanctions relief .
`` The reopening of dialogue between [ North Korea ] and the US may be possible only under the condition of the latter 's absolute agreement on the issues raised by the former , but we know well that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do so , '' he said .
The adviser also said there would `` never be such negotiations as that in Vietnam '' - a reference to the second Trump-Kim summit during which the North offered to dismantle the Yongbyon nuclear complex in return for all sanctions on the country lifted .
The talks , held in 2019 , broke down after the US refused to do so .
Earlier this month , Mr Kim declared that North Korea would abandon its moratorium on nuclear and long-range ballistic missile tests and said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new strategic weapon '' .
But he left a door open for dialogue , saying the scope of any testing would depend on the US `` attitude '' .
The North conducted several smaller weapons tests late in 2019 , in what was seen as an attempt to pressure the US into making concessions .
Mr Kye also confirmed the country had received Mr Trump 's personal letter congratulating Mr Kim for his birthday , believed to be on 8 January , but said it would be `` absent-minded '' to expect a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which he described as `` not bad '' .
`` Although Chairman Kim Jong-un has good personal feelings about President Trump , they are , in the true sense of the word , 'personal ' , '' he said .
`` We have been deceived by the US , being caught in the dialogue with it for over one year and a half , and that was the lost time for us . ''
Prof Mason Richey at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul told Reuters news agency : `` [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ door on diplomacy any more than it already was , but he underlined how the US and North Korea have fundamentally different strategic interests with almost no meaningful overlap . ''
How did we get here ?
• Throughout 2017 , North Korea tests nuclear devices and ICBMs able to reach the US mainland .
• On 1 January 2018 , Kim Jong-un says he 's `` open to dialogue '' with both South Korea and the United States .
• June 2018 : Mr Kim and Mr Trump hold historic face-to-face talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vague , unspecific terms .
• Kim Jong-un also meets with South Korean President Moon Jae-in several times , including once in North Korea .
• In February 2019 , he meets Donald Trump again in Vietnam but the talks end early without agreement .
• In June that year , they have an impromptu but largely symbolic meeting at the demilitarised zone ( DMZ ) that separates North and South Korea .
The adviser also warned South Korea against trying to act as a mediator between the US and the North .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Korea said Mr Trump had asked the country 's authorities to pass on birthday greetings to North Korea .
For South Korea to meddle in personal relations between Mr Kim and Mr Trump was `` presumptuous '' , Mr Kye said , adding that there was a `` special liaison channel '' between the two leaders .
South Korea 's presidency has declined to comment .

"The reopening of dialogue between [North Korea] and the US may be possible only under the condition of the latter's absolute agreement on the issues raised by the former, but we know well that the US is neither ready nor able to do so," he said.


bbc--2020-01-11--Australia fires: Phoebe Waller-Bridge auctions Golden Globes outfit for relief effort

Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge has put her Golden Globes outfit up for auction on eBay to raise money for the Australian bushfire crisis .
The 34-year-old wore the gold tuxedo from Australian designers Ralph & Russo at the awards ceremony , where she won two accolades for her TV comedy-drama .
With a starting bid of 77,000 Australian dollars ( £41,000 ) , the auction is set to end on 20 January .
Waller-Bridge is one of a number of celebrities to support the aid effort .
Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton said he will donate more than £380,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised A $ 1m ( £528,514 ) for the bushfire appeal after his `` baggy green '' Australia cap was sold at auction .
Leonardo DiCaprio 's environmental group has donated 3 million US dollars ( £2.3m ) towards the relief effort , while Sir Elton John , actor Chris Hemsworth and Pink have also donated .
Waller-Bridge 's custom made tuxedo is closest to a UK size 12 , according to the listing .
She has also signed the label of the lace and silk trouser suit .
In a video shared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the writer and actress showed fans where celebrities had touched the outfit , including Tom Hanks when he shook her hand , Sir Elton John giving her a hug and the shoulder where Olivia Colman `` rested her cheek '' .
`` Most significantly perhaps , if you are a Fleabag fan , this suit is completely covered head to toe in Andrew Scott hugs , '' she added .
Money raised will be donated to the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief & Recovery Fund , WIRES Wildlife Rescue Emergency Fund and Wildlife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm very excited that this stunning , one-of-a-kind , couture tuxedo created by Australian geniuses Ralph & Russo will continue its journey by contributing to this urgent cause .
`` If money raised by its auction can help raise funds to fight the disaster in Australia , the future impact of this suit will be far greater than the luck it brought me and the Fleabag team at the Golden Globes last weekend . ''

"If money raised by its auction can help raise funds to fight the disaster in Australia, the future impact of this suit will be far greater than the luck it brought me and the Fleabag team at the Golden Globes last weekend."


bbc--2020-01-11--US anger at UK extradition bid for diplomat's wife

The United States has criticised the UK 's request to extradite an American accused of killing motorcyclist Harry Dunn , calling it `` highly inappropriate '' .
Mr Dunn , 19 , died after being hit by a car allegedly driven by suspect Anne Sacoolas , who left the country for the US claiming diplomatic immunity .
The Home Office submitted a request on Friday to extradite her to the UK .
Dunn family spokesman Radd Seiger said she will `` 100 % be coming back '' .
`` I have no doubt in my mind , the only thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he told BBC Breakfast .
`` This campaign wo n't stop until Anne Sacoolas is back in the UK facing the justice system .
There is no celebration and until she is back , we wo n't rest .
`` This lady is accused of taking Harry 's life , then fleeing the country .
No-one is above the law in modern society .
You do n't get to move to a country , break a law in that country and then leave . ''
Mr Seiger said that under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pleased '' the UK authorities had taken the `` huge step towards justice '' , but if the Trump administration was to ignore or reject the request , it would be re-presented should another administration come into power .
The extradition request is sent via the British Embassy to the US State Department .
A lawyer will then decide whether it falls under the dual-criminality treaty , where the alleged offence is a crime in both countries and carries a prison sentence of at least a year .
The maximum sentence for causing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' imprisonment , although this is usually reserved for the most serious cases .
The US may reject the request for extradition , arguing that Mrs Sacoolas is still entitled to diplomatic immunity .
The crash happened outside RAF Croughton , where Mrs Sacoolas ' husband Jonathan worked as an intelligence officer .
Mr Dunn died after his motorbike was in collision with a car owned by Mrs Sacoolas .
The 42-year-old left the UK shortly after the crash on 27 August and returned to the US , prompting a justice campaign by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Tim Dunn .
Mrs Sacoolas was charged in December by the Crown Prosecution Service with causing death by dangerous driving and the Home Office submitted its extradition request to the US Department of Justice .
A spokeswoman for the US State Department said : `` It is the position of the United States government that a request to extradite an individual under these circumstances would be an abuse .
`` The use of an extradition treaty to attempt to return the spouse of a former diplomat by force would establish an extraordinarily @ @ @ @

Mr Seiger said that under the circumstances, the family was "really pleased" the UK authorities had taken the "huge step towards justice", but if the Trump administration was to ignore or reject the request, it would be re-presented should another administration come into power.


bbc--2020-01-11--Texas governor to reject new refugees under Trump order

The Republican governor of Texas , Greg Abbott , has said the state will not accept new refugees under the US government 's resettlement programme .
The decision means Texas will become the first state known to do so .
Last year US President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing states to opt out of the programme .
On Friday , Mr Abbott said Texas had done `` more than its share in assisting the refugee resettlement process '' .
Refugee agencies have criticised the move , with one calling it `` deeply disappointing '' .
• US slashes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Texas has large refugee populations in several of its major cities .
In the 2018 fiscal year , Texas took in 1,697 refugees - more than any other state , but a large drop from 4,768 in the previous fiscal year .
Justifying his decision in a letter to the US State Department , Mr Abbott argued that the state should be focused on `` those who are already here , including refugees , migrants , and the homeless - indeed , all Texans '' .
On that basis , Mr Abbott said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refugee resettlement '' in 2020 , but added that the decision `` does not deny any refugee access '' to the US .
Refugees who are already settled in other states , Mr Abbott said , will be allowed to move to Texas if they choose .
However , resettlement agencies say they would not have access to federal resettlement benefits , such as housing .
In September last year , President Trump announced that states must actively consent to any resettlement of refugees after June 2020 .
So far , the governors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they will opt in to the government programme .
• Why are more people fleeing home than ever before ?
• The Africans risking death to reach the US Mr Trump has made reducing immigration a key aim of his administration .
The president has slashed the number of refugees allowed into the country for the 2020 fiscal year to 18,000 - a record low .
About 30,000 refugees were resettled in the US during the previous fiscal year .
The previous lowest admissions figure was in 2002 , after the 9/11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed into the US .
Since taking office in 2017 , Mr Trump has sought to reduce the number of immigrants and refugees coming to the country .
A controversial travel ban on mostly Muslim countries is one policy he has pursued to do so .
The travel ban affects nationals from seven countries , five of which are majority Muslim : Iran , Libya , Somalia , Syria and Yemen .
The other two are North Korea and Venezuela .
The Associated Press reports that the Trump administration will seek to expand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite being repeatedly thwarted by legal challenges .

Refugees who are already settled in other states, Mr Abbott said, will be allowed to move to Texas if they choose. However, resettlement agencies say they would not have access to federal resettlement benefits, such as housing.


bbc--2020-01-10--Neil Peart: Rush drummer dies aged 67

Neil Peart: Rush drummer dies aged 67

Neil Peart , drummer and lyricist for Canadian rock band Rush , has died from brain cancer aged 67 .
The musician , considered one of rock 's greatest ever drummers , died on Tuesday in Santa Monica , California .
Rush , the band he played with for 45 years , confirmed his death in a statement posted to Twitter .
The statement said Peart , their `` soul brother '' , had been suffering from glioblastoma - a type of brain cancer - for three-and-a-half years .
`` It is with broken hearts and the deepest sadness that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday our friend , soul brother and band mate of over 45 years , Neil , has lost his incredibly brave three-and-a-half-year battle with brain cancer , '' the statement says .
A spokesperson for the Peart family also confirmed the drummer 's death to US music magazine , Rolling Stone .
Placed at number four in Rolling Stone 's list of all-time greatest drummers , Peart was well-known for his technical proficiency and animated live performances .
He joined Rush in 1974 , drawing influences from hard rock , jazz and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four decades .
Peart retired from Rush in 2015 after the band 's final tour , saying the time had come to take himself `` out of the game '' .
The group , which also featured singer-bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson , recorded hits including The Spirit Of Radio and Tom Sawyer .
The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 .
Peart is reportedly survived by his wife , photographer Carrie Nuttall , and daughter Olivia .
Musicians have paid tribute to Peart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frontman Gene Simmons , who described Peart as a `` kind soul '' .
He added : `` My prayers and condolences to the Peart family , fans and friends . ''
Actor and Tenacious D musician Jack Black tweeted : `` The master will be missed - Neil Peart RIP . ''

"It is with broken hearts and the deepest sadness that we must share the terrible news that on Tuesday our friend, soul brother and band mate of over 45 years, Neil, has lost his incredibly brave three-and-a-half-year battle with brain cancer," the statement says.


bbc--2020-01-11--N Ireland parties return to stalled parliament

Sinn Féin and the DUP will re-enter devolved government in Northern Ireland after three years of deadlock on Saturday .
The two parties have supported a deal to restore Stormont 's political institutions .
The British and Irish governments published the draft proposals on Thursday , after nine months of talks .
Stormont 's power-sharing coalition , led by the DUP and Sinn Féin , collapsed in January 2017 over a green energy row .
• How the parties got a done deal • Three years of political deadlock at Stormont Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed the agreement , tweeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the people of Northern Ireland '' .
Sinn Féin and the DUP are expected to elect a speaker of the assembly and appoint executive ministers in the afternoon .
The proceedings will be streamed live on the BBC News NI website from 13:00 GMT , there will also be coverage on BBC Two NI from 15:30 GMT .
What will happen later ?
This will be an exceptionally rare Saturday sitting of the assembly .
We know , thanks to an order paper released by the assembly , how the day is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enter the chamber , they first have to elect a new Speaker .
Then the DUP and Sinn Féin , as the biggest unionist and nationalist parties , will nominate a first minister and a deputy first minister who will lead the executive .
The parties will then select a new justice minister , through a cross-community vote , meaning it requires a majority of unionists and nationalists .
The job has only ever been held by the cross-community Alliance Party , and most recently independent unionist MLA Claire Sugden , but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
After that , the remaining executive posts will be filled , with the parties ' respective sizes dictating how many portfolios they are allocated , according to the D'Hondt system .
The proceedings are estimated to finish at about 16:30 GMT , but given a new era is beginning at Stormont , the day could run on a good bit longer .
Relations between the DUP and Sinn Féin had deteriorated in recent years as the two parties were diametrically opposed not only on Northern Ireland 's position within the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irish language ; same-sex marriage ; abortion and how to deal with the legacy of the Troubles .
But unexpectedly it was a row over a green energy scheme which pushed their relationship past breaking point .
The Renewable Heat Incentive ( RHI ) scheme was set up by DUP leader Arlene Foster when she was enterprise minister , but it ran over budget and at one point threatened to cost taxpayers £490m .
Sinn Féin demanded that Mrs Foster step aside as first minister during an inquiry into the RHI scheme and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of government on 9 January 2017 .
Two key sticking points in the Stormont talks were around an Irish language act and the petition of concern .
The purpose of petition of concern is to protect one community from legislation that would favour another and a valid petition requires the signatures of 30 MLAs .
The draft deal says there is to be `` meaningful reform '' of the petition , which would be `` reduced and returned to its intended purpose '' and would `` only be used in the most exceptional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having used every other mechanism '' .
The proposed deal would see legislation created for the appointment of both an Irish language commissioner and an Ulster-Scots commissioner .
Earlier , Irish language group Conradh na Gaeilge welcomed the draft deal as `` historic advancement but added it `` falls very much short '' of promises for an Irish Language act .
Other key points in the deal include the Northern Ireland Executive settling an ongoing pay dispute with nurses and increasing policing numbers .
What did the parties say about the deal ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Stormont press conference on Friday that her party will nominate ministers to an executive .
She said Sinn Féin was up for a return to `` genuine power sharing '' .
DUP leader Arlene Foster described the proposals as a `` fair and balanced deal '' .
`` I know there will be challenges in the deal , not least we need to make sure we have the finances to be able to deal with all of the issues in Northern Ireland that are present at the moment , particularly in and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Social Democratic and Labour Party ( SDLP ) leader Colum Eastwood confirmed on Friday that his party will return to Stormont when the assembly is recalled .
The Alliance Party also confirmed on Friday night it would support the deal .
The Ulster Unionist Party are meeting on Saturday morning to decide .
How has the DUP and Sinn Féin 's decision been received ?
Tánaiste ( Irish Deputy Prime Minister ) Simon Coveney , who helped broker the deal , said : `` History is being made today . ''
He added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two largest parties in Northern Ireland that they both are committed to re-entering an executive and establishing a functioning Stormont assembly again .
The leaders of Ireland 's main churches welcomed the agreement , saying it offered `` new hope '' and a `` new start '' for Northern Ireland 's political institutions .
In a joint statement , the leaders of the Church of Ireland , Methodist Church in Ireland , Roman Catholic Church , Presbyterian Church in Ireland and the Irish Council of Churches said the government 's proposals `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and just society '' .
However , the Orange Order earlier said it has `` very serious concerns '' about the deal and could not support the proposal to appoint an Irish language commissioner .

The draft deal says there is to be "meaningful reform" of the petition, which would be "reduced and returned to its intended purpose" and would "only be used in the most exceptional circumstances and as a last resort, having used every other mechanism".


bbc--2020-01-11--India's first trans queen: 'Show yourself loud and proud'

Nitasha Biswas won India 's first transgender beauty pageant in 2017 .
Now she works as a model and campaigns @ @ @ @ @ recent changes in the law have made life a little easier for the country 's @ @ @ @ @ face widespread discrimination .

Nitasha Biswas won India's first transgender beauty pageant in 2017. Now she works as a model and campaigns for transgender rights.
Though recent changes in the law have made life a little easier for the country's trans community, they still face widespread discrimination.
Video by Tulika Bhatnagar & Shaad Midhat


bbc--2020-01-11--Week in pictures: 4 - 10 January 2020

Week in pictures: 4 - 10 January 2020

A drone photo shows thousands of Iranians attending the funeral ceremony of General Qasem Soleimani , the head of Iran @ @ @ @ @ Tehran .
General Soleimani was killed at Baghdad airport on 3 January in a strike @ @ @ @ @ Trump .
As people gathered for the general 's burial in his hometown of Kerman @ @ @ @ @ and more than 200 injured in a stampede .

Image caption,
A drone photo shows thousands of Iranians attending the funeral ceremony of General Qasem Soleimani, the head of Iran's Quds Force, in Tehran. General Soleimani was killed at Baghdad airport on 3 January in a strike ordered by US President Donald Trump. As people gathered for the general's burial in his hometown of Kerman, fifty people were killed and more than 200 injured in a stampede.


bbc--2020-01-11--Paper sculptor Lisa Lloyd rustles up worldwide success

Lisa Lloyd has become an international success with her paper designs .
They 've been featured on the front covers @ @ @ @ @ to personal and corporate buyers around the world .
The artist , from Hove , @ @ @ @ @ thousands of pieces of paper to create her intricate designs .

Lisa Lloyd has become an international success with her paper designs.
They've been featured on the front covers of magazines and have sold to personal and corporate buyers around the world.
The artist, from Hove, East Sussex, works with thousands of pieces of paper to create her intricate designs.


bbc--2020-01-11--From Iran to #Sussexit: 2020's biggest stories explained

Less than two weeks into the new year , you 'd be forgiven for already falling behind on the news .
The start of 2020 has seen a flurry of significant events around the world .
From a deadly plane crash to the British Royals - here is a catch-up of some of the biggest news stories so far this year .
US and Iran go close to war Tension between the US and Iran reached its most strained point in decades .
Relations have gradually soured under the Trump administration , but reached a new low over recent events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington blamed an Iranian-backed militia for the death of an American contractor and bombed bases associated with the group in response .
The deadly raids sparked a backlash and the US embassy in Baghdad was attacked by protesters .
Then on 3 January Qasem Soleimani - one of Iran 's most senior military figures - was killed in a US drone strike .
Why does it matter ?
Soleimani was widely viewed as the second most powerful person in Iran .
Millions came out to mourn him and leaders vowed `` severe revenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sparked fears of escalation or even imminent war between the two nations .
What comes next ?
After a period of mourning , Iran launched missiles at bases in Iraq housing the US military on 8 January , but no-one was killed in the strikes .
It is unclear if retaliatory actions will continue between the two but President Donald Trump said Iran `` appears to be standing down '' .
Hours later came news of another major event .
• The US , Iran and Soleimani explained Shortly after Iran launched strikes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emerged a passenger plane had crashed in Tehran .
It soon became clear that all 176 people on board Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 had been killed .
Iranian officials were quick to blame technical problems , but the timing raised suspicion .
A day later it emerged western intelligence sources had evidence the plane might have been shot down .
Early on Saturday , Iran 's military said the plane had been shot down due to human error , saying it had flown close to a sensitive site belonging to the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter ?
There were dozens of Iranians on the flight but also citizens of six other countries - including 57 Canadians and 11 Ukrainians , as well as people from Sweden , the UK , Afghanistan and Germany .
If a commercial flight is brought down , even `` unintentionally '' as Iran 's military is now saying , it is an extremely serious matter .
• What we know about Iran plane crash • Who were the victims of crash ?
The 8th of January had already been highly eventful .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Duchess of Sussex announced their decision to `` step back '' as senior members of the Royal Family .
Prince Harry and Meghan said they intended to become financially independent and split their time between the UK and North America .
Why does it matter ?
The news sent shockwaves through the international media , with headlines like `` Megxit '' splashed across newspaper front pages .
Buckingham Palace was said to be `` disappointed '' and `` hurt '' at the announcement .
Such an action is almost unprecedented in modern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move to Edward VIII 's decision to abdicate the throne in 1936 .
What comes next ?
Much about the practicalities of their plan remains unclear , though the couple have maintained they will continue to `` honour '' their duty to the Queen .
People have joked about potential career options for the pair , with Meghan already having an `` open invite '' to join a US reality show .
A palace spokeswoman said discussions for the plan were at an `` early stage '' and said there were `` complicated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through '' .
• How the internet reacted to # Sussexit Australia is continuing to struggle with massive and destructive bushfires .
Millions of hectares of land have burned , thousands of homes have been destroyed and at least 27 people have died - including volunteer firefighters .
The situation has been fuelled by record-breaking temperatures and months of severe drought .
Why does it matter ?
Aside from the dangers to property and the public , there is great concern about the ecological impact of the fires .
People are worried in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimates saying hundreds of millions may have died and many habitats been destroyed .
Social media has been filled with campaigns to save animals and the fires even took centre stage in speeches at the Golden Globes on 6 January .
The crisis has piled pressure on Prime Minister Scott Morrison , who has been snubbed by fire victims and forced to apologise for taking a holiday during the crisis .
What comes next ?
The scale of the fires has provoked sharp criticism of the government 's climate policies from parts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morrison 's handling of the crisis .
Tens of thousands demonstrated across major cities on Friday calling for the country to transition away from fossil fuels .
Reynhard Sinaga , originally from Indonesia , was publicly identified for the first time on 6 January .
He was found guilty of 159 sex offences against 48 men , who he lured to his Manchester flat before drugging and raping them .
The 36-year-old has been jailed for life with a minimum 30-year sentence .
Why does it matter ?
Sinaga has been described as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal history '' .
The shocking case has provoked discussion in the media about male rape , including stigma , as well as around the dangers of drink spiking .
What comes next ?
Sinaga recorded his crimes on his phone and is suspected of raping dozens of more men , who police have been unable to identify .
After his crimes were made public , police said they had a `` significant number '' of calls from new potential victims .
• Do men know enough about spiking ?
These are just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other news : • The stand-off over the next stages of Donald Trump 's impeachment has continued to rumble on • Jury selection started in the New York trial of Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein , who on 6 January got hit with new charges in Los Angeles • MPs gave their final backing to a bill to implement the UK government 's Brexit deal with the country due to leave the EU on 31 January • There has been intense speculation about how the businessman Carlos Ghosn managed to leave Japan while awaiting @

Less than two weeks into the new year, you'd be forgiven for already falling behind on the news. The start of 2020 has seen a flurry of significant events around the world.


bbc--2020-01-10--Australia fires: Vineyard owner's grief and determination

Australia 's deadly wildfires have devastated huge swathes of territory and left thousands homeless .
Many businesses have also been destroyed , among them vineyards which have taken generations to grow , as the BBC 's Peter Hoskins writes .
`` It 's a bit like losing a parent , a mother or father , '' says James Tilbrook .
He is no stranger to wildfires .
The Adelaide Hills region , where his winery and vineyard once stood , had twice been hit by major blazes in the two decades he 's tended this land .
When smoke appeared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 December he knew it was going to be bad but could only hope his 20 acres ( 8 hectares ) would again be spared .
As the flames grew closer there was nothing that could be done but flee the fire .
He returned to a scene of almost total devastation .
`` I started looking around me , and all the land was black . ''
For him , the emotional impact was akin to losing a close family member and the grieving process that follows .
`` You know , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or maybe up to a week afterwards , you 're absolutely in shock and then you go to the funeral ... and it 's another shock . ''
Within a matter of hours the Tilbrook family had been left without a livelihood , as well as facing the huge cost of replacing what had been lost in the fire .
`` From the business point of view , we 've lost our income , we 've lost our livelihood . ''
`` I 'm reckoning that two years-worth of income , plus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half a million ( Australian ) dollars ( £262,800 ; $ 344,000 ) .
`` Then there 's all the cost of the vineyard ... potentially another $ 200,000 ... You 're talking about $ 700,000 . ''
Mr Tilbrook 's story is one that has been seen time and time again as the bushfires swept across Australia , hitting large parts of the wine industry .
Since September , at least 27 people have died in fires , which have destroyed more than 10 million hectares across the country .
The fires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to them , is seriously affecting producers , according to industry lobby group Australian Grape and Wine .
Tony Battaglene , the group 's chief executive told the BBC that the situation may not improve any time soon .
`` I wish the worst was behind us .
Our bushfire season in Australia traditionally starts around December and will go on for three or four months .
We have started very early this year , so it 's very early days indeed . ''
`` From the photos and the pictures you 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there 's a lot more to burn , but I can assure you there is . ''
Australian Grape and Wine says Queensland and the Adelaide Hills region have been hit particularly hard .
In Queensland it predicts that production for 2020 is likely to be a fraction of last year 's due to water shortages .
The fires have also potentially wiped out a third of wine production in the Adelaide Hills region , according to the area 's industry association .
Of the region 's 3,300 hectares of vineyards , around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bushfires .
Producers do n't just face the direct impact of the blazes but also smoke damage , or so-called `` smoke taint '' .
Bushfire smoke can permeate the skin of the grapes as they ripen , causing wine to have an unpleasant smoky taste .
'Battle on ... keep trying' Geoff Weaver owns a vineyard at Lenswood , high in the Adelaide Hills , which was also damaged in December .
He told the BBC : `` We 've lost all our sheds and equipment .
We 've also lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He said , for that third of his vines : `` We 've lost this year 's crop , the 2020 crop .
We 'll also lose the 2021 . ''
But Mr Weaver sent a defiant message to his fellow winemakers , telling them : `` Battle on .
Keep trying to make the best wine you possibly can and challenge the world markets with the best wines we can make in Australia . ''
That spirit of determination was echoed by James Tilbrook .
He said he 'd been overwhelmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help rebuild his vineyard and winery .
`` A mixture of anger getting angry about stuff that you should n't really get angry about , tears when you get upset about stuff but joy at the same time that you 've got these little wins , and also faith in humanity that people are there to help . ''
Much of that support has come through the vineyard 's Facebook page , with professionals from electricians to lawyers offering expertise , and materials , as well as people who just came along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basically put out posts that have been shared and shared and shared and shared again .
As a result we 've had a lot of volunteers , we 've had about a hundred so far . ''
`` We definitely could n't have done it without all these people . ''

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bbc--2020-01-11--Qasem Soleimani: Crisis puts Mid-East friends and foes on edge

Imagine , if you will , a Middle East situation room with four of the region 's key leaders who have been watching the recent confrontation between the US and Iran unfold .
At the table is Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ; caretaker Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi ; and Hassan Nasrallah , leader of Iran 's Lebanese ally , the militant Hezbollah movement .
They 've just been listening to what sounded like a `` mission accomplished '' speech from US President Donald Trump .
Most of them , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sigh of relief .
But they are scratching their heads about what this turbulent week means for their future .
For Mohammed bin Salman , the speech signals an immediate danger averted .
It 's true the crown prince has previously been outspoken about what he 's called the `` evil '' nature of Iran 's leadership in recent years .
But the Saudis have been urging de-escalation since Mr Trump ordered the assassination of top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike in Baghdad , afraid of becoming engulfed in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington , and their enemy , Tehran .
And if Saudi Arabia had been caught in the crossfire , there was no guarantee the US would have struck back on its behalf .
It did n't last year , when two oil installations were disabled in an attack blamed on Iran .
That experience deepened doubt that the Saudis could rely on the man in the White House , who seemed to be telegraphing that he did n't want to get drawn into another Middle East war .
So they began exploring diplomatic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But wait , is the equation changing ?
Is the Trump administration more prepared now to take military action in its ongoing confrontation with Iran ?
Or did Soleimani , that master military strategist , take a wrong step across the `` red line '' of targeting Americans ?
`` You 've got to understand elections , '' let 's imagine Mr Netanyahu saying .
The conversation turns to the recent attack on the US embassy in Baghdad during a protest by supporters of Iran-backed Iraqi militias .
It goes something like this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there was n't much damage , so Soleimani thought he 'd get away with sending a strong message .
But Mr Trump was probably thinking about the 1979 hostage crisis at the US embassy in Iran , which sunk [ then President ] Jimmy Carter .
`` It 's even more likely he was thinking about the 2012 attack on the US consulate in Benghazi , for which he 's lambasted the Obama administration .
He even tweeted that the incident was the 'Anti-Benghazi ' .
He did n't want to head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
US officials have variously justified the killing as self-defence to prevent an `` imminent '' attack on American interests , and a show of deterrence to Iran to signal that the president 's previous restraint was not a sign of weakness .
The Israeli prime minister is almost certainly hoping it 's the latter .
The Israelis were deeply concerned by the lack of US military retaliation last year for alleged Iranian attacks in the region .
`` It would be better if we were n't alone , '' the chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , General Aviv Kochavi , said darkly in end-of-the year remarks .
`` Suddenly we are no longer alone ! ''
crowed Israeli defence correspondent Alex Fishman after the strike on Soleimani .
`` This is a strategic miracle ! ''
The Israelis are also rid of their number one enemy .
Israeli analysts say Qasem Soleimani was the author and executor of a plan to entrench an Iranian military presence - via proxies and otherwise - in countries around Israel , what they call a `` ring of fire '' .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been quiet about the drone strike , like the Saudis seemingly hoping to avoid getting caught in the crossfire .
Mr Abdul Mahdi probably feels like he has been thrown into a fire during the past week .
The US strike toppled him off the tightrope on which he 's been trying to balance alliances with both the US and Iran .
The Iraqi foreign ministry summoned ambassadors from both countries to chastise them for using Iraq as their battleground .
He can be grateful that Iran gave President Trump a face-saving way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , by firing missiles at bases that caused no casualties .
But he 's still in the hot seat .
The US is a demanding if inconsistent ally .
Yet when cornered , Mr Abdul Mahdi found it safer to side with the pro-Iran forces in Iraq .
The powerful Shia politicians and militias have been given a new shot of legitimacy after months of popular protests against their grip on the country .
They 've condemned America 's violation of Iraqi sovereignty and demanded that its 5,200 troops there leave .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come of that .
But the fallout from the assassination has created uncertainty about the staying power of a US military presence .
Mr Abdul Mahdi has said there 's no other way `` otherwise we are speeding toward confrontation '' .
That is the goal of Hassan Nasrallah .
As one of the most senior figures left standing in Qasem Soleimani 's regional network of proxy forces - the US air strike also killed the powerful Iraqi paramilitary leader , Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis - he feels the weight of responsibility to continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his death .
That should focus on hitting US military assets , he has said .
So far he has n't mentioned Israel - Hezbollah 's usual target .
Perhaps the Iranians do n't think it 's a good idea to reignite that front on top of everything else right now .
Hassan Nasrallah is probably still trying to game out the new landscape - what does this mean for the so-called `` axis of resistance '' now that its prime architect is gone ; and how will he step into the breach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenged Hezbollah 's domestic political dominance ?
Let 's imagine that , after this meeting breaks up , the Hezbollah chief plans to debrief Syrian President Bashar al-Assad , who 's been tied up with a rare visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin .
Without Qasem Soleimani 's crucial help , Mr Assad 's regime would almost certainly not have survived Syria 's civil war .
The Iranian general 's cruel counter-insurgency methods have left many Syrians rejoicing at his death .
But how will the country take shape now , without the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubt that 's what Mr Putin , Iran 's ally in Syria , is trying to gauge , along with the question that has consumed our situation room .
Was this Mr Trump 's parting shot before exiting the region , or is the US really back in the game ?
And have the Americans struck a mortal blow to Iran 's regional reach , or unwittingly aided its long-term goal of expelling US troops from the region ?

Hassan Nasrallah is probably still trying to game out the new landscape - what does this mean for the so-called "axis of resistance" now that its prime architect is gone; and how will he step into the breach given the turmoil in Lebanon that's challenged Hezbollah's domestic political dominance?


bbc--2020-01-10--Samira Ahmed case: What is equal pay?

Samira Ahmed case: What is equal pay?

BBC presenter Samira Ahmed has successfully taken the broadcaster to court after she was paid less than a male colleague doing similar work .
So what exactly is equal pay , and how can you find out if you are not being paid enough ?
Equal pay is the legal right for men and women to be paid the same for : • Doing the same , or similar , jobs • Doing work that has been rated as `` equivalent '' , or in the same grade • Doing work of `` equal value '' , where jobs might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of skill Pay does not just refer to salaries .
It also includes employee benefits like holidays and pension contributions , as well as company cars and bonuses .
It has been part of UK law since the 1970 Equal Pay Act , and is now also part of the Equality Act 2010 .
It means all employees are entitled to equal pay , regardless of whether they are on full-time , part-time , or temporary contracts .
• Samira Ahmed 's BBC equal pay tribunal ends : Who said what ?
How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being paid equally ?
Discussing pay with colleagues can be awkward .
But it can be a good first step in finding out whether or not you are being paid equally .
Looking at salary ranges in job adverts from your employer , or finding out the typical rate for similar jobs in the same industry can also be helpful .
The Advisory , Conciliation and Arbitration Service ( Acas ) provides impartial advice to workers and bosses on workplace disputes or issues .
It says any employee who suspects they are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to explain if there is a pay difference .
An employer may be able to defend themselves from a claim if they prove the reason for the difference is due to a genuine factor and is not based on the sex of the employee .
An employee can try to resolve the issue first with their boss or HR .
They could also raise a grievance , which is a formal complaint .
If that does n't work , they can complain to an employment tribunal , independent bodies which deal with work-related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to contact Acas first , which offers a voluntary early conciliation procedure to try and resolve things without a tribunal .
An equal pay claim can be taken to tribunal up to six months after leaving the role .
There are no fees but if you choose to pay for a lawyer that could be expensive .
The person bringing the claim must point to a `` comparator '' .
That is , someone of the opposite gender currently or previously working for the same employer , doing the same or equivalent work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The tribunal can order contracts to be amended , compensation , or up to six years ' back pay to be awarded to the employee .
As our Reality Check team found out , cases are not solved very often at tribunal .
That is partly because demonstrating different jobs are of equal value can be a difficult and drawn-out process .
Lisa Ayling , solicitor and employment law specialist , says many equal pay cases are settled before tribunal stage is reached .
She adds : `` Women are more tempted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they realise the legal hurdles to overcome are complex , time-consuming and expensive . ''
What famous cases have there been ?
Presenter Samira Ahmed has successfully taken the BBC to an employment tribunal over alleged unequal pay .
Ms Ahmed said she was underpaid for hosting audience feedback show Newswatch when compared with Jeremy Vine 's salary for Points of View .
The journalist had argued she was owed almost £700,000 in back pay .
Carrie Gracie previously resigned from her role as China editor in a dispute over equal pay at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underpaying her and said it `` has now put this right '' by giving her back pay .
She donated the full , undisclosed amount to charity .
Several other high-profile cases have come to a head in recent years .
Last year , Glasgow City Council agreed to pay out a reported £548m to compensate thousands of women who were paid less than men in jobs of the same grade .
More than 8,000 women employed in schools , nurseries and in cleaning and catering services by the council had been on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK .
Supermarket Asda also lost an appeal in a long-running legal dispute over equal pay in January .
The decision meant that lower-paid shop staff , mostly women , can compare themselves with higher-paid warehouse workers , who are mostly men .
Is equal pay the same as the gender pay gap ?
No .
Equal pay is awarding men and women the same amount to do identical or equivalent work , and is a legal requirement for businesses .
The gender pay gap refers to the percentage difference between average hourly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a company , sector or across the country .
If women are being paid more , that 's called a negative pay gap .
Having a gender pay gap is not illegal , but it is compulsory for all UK employers with more than 250 workers to publish their gender pay gap data .

What is equal pay and how can you find out if you are getting it? Published 12 November 2020
Image source, Getty Images
The BBC has been cleared of unlawful acts of pay discrimination against women, following an investigation by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
But it was warned it needed to make "improvements to increase transparency and rebuild trust with women at the organisation".
So what exactly is equal pay, and how can you find out if you are not being paid enough?
What is equal pay?
Equal pay is the legal right for men and women to be paid the same for:
Doing the same, or similar, jobs
Doing work that has been rated as "equivalent", or in the same grade
Doing work of "equal value", where jobs might be different but require a similar level of skill
Pay does not just refer to salaries. It also includes employee benefits like holidays and pension contributions, as well as company cars and bonuses.
It has been part of UK law since the 1970 Equal Pay Act, and is now also part of the Equality Act 2010. It means all employees are entitled to equal pay, regardless of whether they are on full-time, part-time, or temporary contracts.
What is the equal pay problem at the BBC?
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Carrie Gracie's statement after BBC apologises for unequal pay
The EHRC investigation started in March 2019 after several high-profile cases involving pay discrimination at the BBC.
The commission, said the BBC accepted that "its historical practices were not fit for purpose and has made significant changes since 2015".
More than 500 women have been awarded rises since 2017 after making complaints. The corporation said most related to the issue of fair pay rather than equal pay.
How do I find out if I am being paid equally?
Discussing pay with colleagues can be awkward, but can be a good start in finding out if you are being paid equally.
Monitoring salary ranges in your employer's job adverts, or finding out the typical rate for similar jobs in the same industry can also help.
Image source, Getty Images
The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) provides impartial advice to workers and bosses. It says any employee who suspects they are not receiving equal pay can ask their manager to explain any pay difference.
An employer may be able to defend a claim if they prove the reason for the difference is because of a genuine factor and not based on the employee's sex.
How do I claim equal pay?
An employee can try to resolve the issue first with their boss or HR. They could also raise a grievance, which is a formal complaint.
If that doesn't work, they can complain to an employment tribunal, independent bodies which assess work-related legal claims. But the claimant must first contact Acas, which offers a voluntary early conciliation procedure to try to resolve things without a tribunal.
An equal pay claim can go to a tribunal up to six months after leaving the role. There are no fees, but if you pay for a lawyer that could be expensive.
The person bringing the claim must point to a "comparator". That is, someone of the opposite gender currently or previously working for the same employer, doing the same or equivalent work and receiving more pay or benefits.
The tribunal can order contracts to be amended, compensation, or up to six years' back pay to be awarded to the employee.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The Ford machinists' strike in Dagenham became a celebrated moment in the campaign for equal pay
However, cases are not solved very often at tribunal. That is partly because demonstrating different jobs are of equal value can be a difficult and drawn-out process.
Lisa Ayling, solicitor and employment law specialist, says many cases are settled before a tribunal is needed.
She adds: "Women are more tempted to settle equal pay than other claims because they realise the legal hurdles to overcome are complex, time-consuming and expensive."
What famous cases have there been?
Last year, Glasgow City Council agreed to pay out a reported £548m to compensate thousands of women who were paid less than men in jobs of the same grade.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Thousands of women marched in Glasgow in one of the UK's biggest equal pay strikes
More than 8,000 women employed in schools, nurseries and in cleaning and catering services by the council had been on the biggest-ever equal pay strike in the UK.
Supermarket Asda also lost an appeal in a long-running legal dispute over equal pay in January.
The decision meant that lower-paid shop staff, mostly women, can compare themselves with higher-paid warehouse workers, who are mostly men.
Is equal pay the same as the gender pay gap?
No. Equal pay is awarding men and women the same amount to do identical or equivalent work, and is a legal requirement for businesses.
The gender pay gap refers to the percentage difference between average hourly earnings for all men and women in a company, sector or across the country. If women are being paid more, that's called a negative pay gap.


bbc--2020-01-11--US Open champion Andreescu out of Australian Open with knee injury

US Open champion Bianca Andreescu has withdrawn from the Australian Open in Melbourne as she continues her recovery from a knee injury .
The Canadian , ranked sixth in the world , picked up the injury at the season-ending WTA Finals in October .
Andreescu beat Serena Williams at Flushing Meadows in September to win her maiden Grand Slam title .
`` I have to respect the recuperation plan for my knee and body , '' the 19-year-old wrote on Twitter .
`` I feel better and stronger every day but the Australian Open is unfortunately too soon in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second round in Melbourne in 2019 .
Another absentee from the Australian Open will be Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro , 31 .
The 2009 US Open winner has been battling problems with his right knee since June last year when he underwent surgery .
Del Potro , a two-time Melbourne quarter-finalist , was ranked in the top 10 a year ago , but has fallen to 120 in the singles rankings after six months out of action .
• 'We had to wear our masks indoors ' - Swan on preparing for @ @ @ @

Last updated on .From the section Tennis
Bianca Andreescu beat Serena Williams to win the US Open in 2019
2020 Australian Open Venue: Melbourne Park Dates: 20 January to 2 February Coverage: Listen on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and online; Live text on selected matches on the BBC Sport website and app.
US Open champion Bianca Andreescu has withdrawn from the Australian Open in Melbourne as she continues her recovery from a knee injury.
The Canadian, ranked sixth in the world, picked up the injury at the season-ending WTA Finals in October.
Andreescu beat Serena Williams at Flushing Meadows in September to win her maiden Grand Slam title.
"I have to respect the recuperation plan for my knee and body," the 19-year-old wrote on Twitter.
"I feel better and stronger every day but the Australian Open is unfortunately too soon in my rehab process."
Andreescu reached the second round in Melbourne in 2019.
Another absentee from the Australian Open will be Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro, 31.
The 2009 US Open winner has been battling problems with his right knee since June last year when he had surgery.
Del Potro, twice a Melbourne quarter-finalist, was ranked in the top 10 a year ago, but has fallen to 120 in the singles rankings after six months out of action.


bbc--2020-01-11--Williams into Auckland final with 43-minute win

Serena Williams thrashed fellow American Amanda Anisimova in just 43 minutes to reach the final of the Auckland International .
The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion , searching for her first title since the 2017 Australian Open , hammered the 18-year-old 6-1 6-1 .
Williams , 38 , will face Jessica Pegula in the final after the unseeded American overcame Williams ' doubles partner Caroline Wozniacki .
• US Open champion Andreescu out of Australian Open with knee injury • 'We had to wear our masks indoors ' - Swan on preparing for Australian Open during bushfires Williams will feature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she and Wozniacki play in the doubles final on Sunday .
Should the American win either , it will be her first title since becoming a mother .
She played aggressively against 2019 French Open semi-finalist Anisimova , hitting five aces , converting all five of her break points and winning 77 % of first serves .
`` I knew I was playing a really great player and an even better person and I knew I had to come out serious , '' Williams said .
`` My daughter 's only two - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ myself but considering everything , I 'm doing pretty good . ''
In the Brisbane International , Karolina Pliskova reached the final with a victory over Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka .
Defending champion Pliskova , who is second in the world rankings , fought back to beat world number four Osaka 6-7 ( 10-12 ) 7-6 ( 7-3 ) 6-2 .
She will play American Madison Keys on Sunday after Keys beat two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova 3-6 6-2 6-3 .
World number one Ashleigh Barty will feature in Sunday 's doubles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Barty is donating all her prize money from Brisbane to the bushfire relief fund - she has already donated her A $ 32,129 ( £16,955 ) second-round singles prize money to the cause .
Barty and Bertens will face Hsieh Su-wei and Barbora Strycova in the final .

Last updated on .From the section Tennis
Serena Williams is searching for her first singles title since the 2017 Australian Open
Serena Williams thrashed fellow American Amanda Anisimova in just 43 minutes to reach the final of the Auckland Classic.
The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, searching for her first title since the 2017 Australian Open, hammered the 18-year-old 6-1 6-1.
Williams, 38, will face Jessica Pegula in the final after the unseeded American overcame Williams' doubles partner Caroline Wozniacki.
Pegula beat the Dane 3-6 6-4 6-0.
Williams will feature in two finals in one day when she and Wozniacki play in the doubles final on Sunday.
Should the American win either, it will be her first title since becoming a mother.
She played aggressively against 2019 French Open semi-finalist Anisimova, hitting five aces, converting all five of her break points and winning 77% of first serves.
"I knew I was playing a really great player and an even better person and I knew I had to come out serious," Williams said.
"My daughter's only two - I tend to be really hard on myself but considering everything, I'm doing pretty good."
In the Brisbane International, Karolina Pliskova reached the final with a victory over Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka.
Defending champion Pliskova, who is second in the world rankings, fought back to beat world number four Osaka 6-7 (10-12) 7-6 (7-3) 6-2.
She will play American Madison Keys on Sunday after Keys beat two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova 3-6 6-2 6-3.
World number one Ashleigh Barty will feature in Sunday's doubles final with Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands.
Barty is donating all her prize money from Brisbane to the bushfire relief fund - she has already donated her A$32,129 (£16,955) second-round singles prize money to the cause.
Barty and Bertens will face Hsieh Su-wei and Barbora Strycova in the final.


bbc--2020-01-10--'One of worst number two seed teams I've ever seen' - can Packers hold off Seahawks?

It 's time for you to put your NFL prediction skills to the test .
With eight teams remaining in the race to Super Bowl LIV , our experts Osi Umenyiora and Jason Bell have picked the winners from three of this weekend 's four play-off games and explained their reasons .
But who do you agree with ?
You can vote below .
Jason : This will be won or lost at the line of scrimmage .
Both teams want to run the ball , I do n't think the Titans will be able to run against the Ravens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up front who can stop that running game - I 'm going for the Ravens .
Osi : Titans should n't go in to this game with any fears , they 've just beat the biggest bully in the park - the Patriots .
Saying that , I still think it wo n't be enough for them to get past the Ravens .
Jason : I 'm going with the Chiefs , I 'm really excited to see these two quarterbacks play , the defensive backs of the Texans will really struggle in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't enjoy the way the Texans played football last week it was really sloppy .
If they go in with that attitude against Kansas City they 'll get their doors blown off and I think that 's exactly what 'll happen - I 'm sticking with the Chiefs .
Jason : I 'm going with Green Bay because they 're playing at home .
I 'm ready for that Aaron Rodgers magic and , although both defences are poor , Green Bay 's is definitely stronger .
Osi : I 've said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are one of the worst number two seed teams I 've ever seen .
This is the end of the road for them and I think Seattle will beat them purely because they 're the better football team .
Watch the NFL Show on BBC One at 00:00 GMT on Sunday , 12 January .

Episode 20 of the NFL Show airs on BBC One at 00:00 GMT on Sunday, 12 January.
It's time for you to put your NFL prediction skills to the test.
With eight teams remaining in the race to Super Bowl LIV, our experts Osi Umenyiora and Jason Bell have picked the winners from three of this weekend's four play-off games and explained their reasons.
But who do you agree with? You can vote below.
Saturday: Tennessee Titans at Baltimore Ravens (kick-off 01:15 GMT Sunday)
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Jason: This will be won or lost at the line of scrimmage. Both teams want to run the ball, I don't think the Titans will be able to run against the Ravens defence as they have some huge people up front who can stop that running game - I'm going for the Ravens.
Osi: Titans shouldn't go in to this game with any fears, they've just beat the biggest bully in the park - the Patriots. Saying that, I still think it won't be enough for them to get past the Ravens.
Sunday: Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs (20:05 GMT)
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Jason: I'm going with the Chiefs, I'm really excited to see these two quarterbacks play, the defensive backs of the Texans will really struggle in this game.
Osi: I didn't enjoy the way the Texans played football last week it was really sloppy. If they go in with that attitude against Kansas City they'll get their doors blown off and I think that's exactly what'll happen - I'm sticking with the Chiefs.
Sunday: Seattle Seahawks at Green Bay Packers (23:40 GMT)
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Jason: I'm going with Green Bay because they're playing at home. I'm ready for that Aaron Rodgers magic and, although both defences are poor, Green Bay's is definitely stronger.
Osi: I've said it before - I think Green Bay Packers are one of the worst number two seed teams I've ever seen. This is the end of the road for them and I think Seattle will beat them purely because they're the better football team.
Watch the NFL Show on BBC One at 00:00 GMT on Sunday, 12 January.


bbc--2020-01-11--ATP Cup: Novak Djokovic beats Daniil Medvedev to put Serbia into final

Novak Djokovic put Serbia into the inaugural ATP Cup final as they beat Russia 3-0 in Sydney .
The world @ @ @ @ @ finalist Daniil Medvedev 6-1 5-7 6-4 to give Serbia an unassailable 2-0 lead .
Dusan @ @ @ @ @ number 17 Karen Khachanov 7-5 7-6 ( 7-1 ) before Viktor Troicki and Nikola Cacic @ @ @ @ @ in the doubles .
Serbia will play either Spain or Australia in Sunday 's final @ @ @ @ @ of the best players in the world and he showed today why , '' Djokovic @ @ @ @ @ `` This was the most difficult challenge I have had so far this year .
@ @ @ @ @ champion later withdrew from the ATP event in Adelaide , which begins on 12 January @ @ @ @ @ the first Grand Slam of the year - starts on 20 January .
• US @ @ @ @ @ Australian Open with knee injury • 'We had to wear our masks indoors ' - @ @ @ @ @ Open during bushfires

Last updated on .From the section Tennis
Rafael Nadal has won 19 Grand Slam titles as a singles player
Rafael Nadal will play Novak Djokovic as Spain take on Serbia in the inaugural ATP Cup final in Sydney.
Top-ranked Nadal came from a set down to beat Australia's Alex de Minaur 4-6 7-5 6-1 and give Spain an unassailable 2-0 lead over the hosts.
World number two Djokovic had earlier beaten US Open finalist Daniil Medvedev 6-1 5-7 6-4 as Serbia beat Russia 3-0.
Djokovic beat Nadal in straight sets in last year's Australian Open final and leads their head-to-head 28-26.
He has also not lost to Nadal on a hard court since the 2013 US Open final.
The Australian Open - the first Grand Slam of the year - begins on 20 January, eight days after the ATP Cup finishes.
Nadal lost his quarter-final singles match to Belgium's David Goffin and was punished for a slow start by De Minaur, who is at a career-high of 18th in the rankings.
However, as De Minaur tired, Nadal went up a level, racing to a 4-0 lead in the deciding set before serving out victory on his first attempt.
Roberto Bautistua Agut had given Spain a lead in the tie after breezing past Nick Kyrgios 6-1 6-4, before Feliciano Lopez and Pablo Carreno Busta won in the doubles.
"Novak likes to play here and Serbia has a great team and is playing very well," Nadal said.
"But Roberto played an amazing match and we have a good team, so we are ready for it."
Djokovic overcomes 'most difficult challenge of year so far'
Novak Djokovic is the reigning Australian Open and Wimbledon champion
Djokovic has not lost a match at the event, although he has dropped sets in his past two matches against Medvedev and Canada's Denis Shapovalov.
However, he was able to overcome the highly-rated Medvedev to seal Serbia's place in the final after Dusan Lajovic had beaten world number 17 Karen Khachanov 7-5 7-6 (7-1).
Viktor Troicki and Nikola Cacic then made it a clean sweep in the doubles with a 6-4 7-6 (9-7) win over Teimuraz Gabashvili and Konstantin Kravchuk.
"Medvedev is one of the best players in the world and he showed today why," Djokovic said after their rubber.
"This was the most difficult challenge I have had so far this year."
The 16-time Grand Slam champion later withdrew from the ATP event in Adelaide, which begins on 12 January. The Australian Open - the first Grand Slam of the year - starts on 20 January.
The 24-nation event started with six groups of four teams, who each played three round-robin ties. The ties - comprising two singles matches and one doubles - are best of three.


bbc--2020-01-06--Pakistan forgiveness laws: The price of getting away with murder

The murder was so brutal it shocked even the hardened detectives who arrived at the scene on the outskirts of Pakistan 's capital , Islamabad .
Bushra Iftikhar , a 28-year-old housewife , had been stabbed with such force that the knife her assailant used had bent out of shape , and he had continued the attack with a screwdriver .
The couple had four children already , and at the time of her death Bushra Iftikhar was pregnant with their fifth .
Why exactly her husband killed her remains unclear .
He claimed in court to have been suffering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recollection of the incident .
Her family says he accused her of wanting to convert to another religious sect .
But what does seem clear is that Sami Ullah was a violent man .
He had previously been accused of the attempted murder of a neighbour , and of being part of a violent argument at a restaurant .
Police believe he should have been in prison , but instead he did n't even face a proper trial .
According to Bushra Iftikhar 's brother , Sami Ullah 's family were influential in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the victims of those earlier cases .
`` In the old cases , he gave money and quickly got out of prison , '' Mohammad Zakaria bluntly told the BBC .
Under Pakistani law , victims or their families have the right to forgive suspects in a number of serious crimes , including most instances of murder .
All they have to do is state in court that they forgive a suspect `` in the name of God '' .
In reality , legal observers agree that the primary motive for that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the informal payment of money to victims is not illegal .
The provisions allowing crimes of bodily harm to be `` settled '' or `` forgiven '' were introduced in the 1990s as part of a set of Islamic-inspired legal reforms .
Supporters of the system say it helps reduce pressure on Pakistan 's already overburdened and delay-ridden court system , and reduces the likelihood of feuds developing .
But according to one study , the murder conviction rate in the country dropped from 29 % in 1990 , before the laws @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2000 .
• Slut-shamed in Pakistan for being abducted • The price of speaking out against police killings Critics argue the law can give repeat offenders a sense of impunity , and is a tool for the more powerful to evade justice .
Bushra Iftikhar 's brother believes the fact her killer was never punished in any of his previous cases only made him grow more violent .
`` He became arrogant .
He thought : ' I did this , and nothing happened .
Now I 'm free and the law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sami Ullah 's family admit the previous cases had ended in what are often termed `` compromises '' , but insist they had agreed them to avoid a drawn-out legal process , not because Sami Ullah was guilty .
Sami Ullah is currently appealing against a death sentence after being convicted of murder .
Ashtar Ausaf Ali , who served as attorney general under the previous government , put forward plans to reform the laws in 2015 whilst still retaining the element of forgiveness .
`` A person has the right to forgive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his office in the city of Lahore , but he added that crime was n't just a matter for an individual , but for society .
His idea was to introduce mandatory minimum sentences , so that `` people would know that they can not put a price tag on a crime '' .
Despite being supported by some clerics , Mr Ali 's proposals were blocked by a number of Islamist politicians .
At the moment , there seems little prospect of them being resurrected .
The current law is a source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers and criminal prosecutors .
Courts do have the right to reject settlements if they believe they are coerced , but most observers agree that due to the number of cases in the court system , they rarely investigate thoroughly .
Meanwhile , one detective told me he had come across dozens of examples of offenders reaching a settlement with their alleged victims only to go on to reoffend .
He said the police would spend time and resources investigating a crime only for the case to end abruptly .
Then there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be the beneficiaries of such `` settlements '' .
In August , CCTV images of a thief sticking his tongue out at the camera as he stole a bank card from a cash machine in the central Pakistani city of Faisalabad went viral on social media .
But the case took a grim turn as shortly after Salahuddin Ayubi was arrested by police , he died in custody .
Suspicions mounted after another video emerged of Salahuddin Ayubi , who apparently initially pretended to police that he was deaf and mute , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his arms behind his back while another interrogated him .
Salahuddin 's father , Muhammad Afzal , initially pressed for justice for his son , who is believed to have suffered from a mental illness .
However , a month later , he announced he was forgiving the policemen accused of killing him `` in the name of God '' .
The `` settlement '' or `` compromise '' in that case is understood to have consisted of an agreement the authorities would build a new 8km ( five-mile ) road in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new gas pipeline , not to mention the payment of an undisclosed sum of money .
Salahuddin 's father seemed content with the deal , which was brokered by a radical cleric with links to the intelligence services .
But others , who do n't have powerful backers or the weight of public pressure behind them , often end up feeling as if they have no choice but to agree with what is being offered to them .
In a village outside Lahore , I met the family of another man who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been detained after wrongly being accused of murder .
The BBC is not revealing the family 's names in order to protect them from repercussions , but they say a mixture of coercion and money led them to drop the case against the police officers they hold responsible for his death .
`` We have n't forgiven them in our hearts , '' the victim 's brother told me .
`` We never will , but we were helpless . ''
He said a steady stream of local politicians and influential figures had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fight for justice .
`` They would say : 'Do a deal .
If you do n't , you wo n't be able to do anything anyway .
Maybe they 'll go to jail for six months or a year , after that they 'll be freed and can make all sorts of trouble for you . '
'' The family are poor and were offered enough money to buy a house , something they would have struggled ever to do otherwise .
They accepted , but the mother remained distraught at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I wish to God that we were still living in a rented house , and my son was still alive , '' she said .
`` They took my son and gave me money for a house , what kind of deal is that ? ''

Under Pakistani law, victims or their families have the right to forgive suspects in a number of serious crimes, including most instances of murder. All they have to do is state in court that they forgive a suspect "in the name of God". In reality, legal observers agree that the primary motive for that "forgiveness" is normally financial, and the informal payment of money to victims is not illegal.


bbc--2020-01-11--Iran plane crash: Protesters condemn 'lies' on downed jet

Hundreds of protesters have taken to the streets in Iran 's capital , Tehran , to vent anger at officials , calling them liars for having denied shooting down a Ukrainian passenger plane .
Protests took place outside at least two universities , with tear gas reportedly fired .
US President Donald Trump tweeted support for the `` inspiring '' protests .
Iran on Saturday admitted downing the jet `` unintentionally '' , three days after the crash that killed 176 people .
Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 , en route to Kyiv , was shot down on Wednesday near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take-off , and only hours after Iran had fired missiles at two air bases housing US forces in Iraq .
• What we know about flight PS752 Those attacks were Iran 's response to the US killing of senior Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike in Baghdad on 3 January .
Dozens of Iranians and Canadians , as well as nationals from Ukraine , the UK , Afghanistan and Germany died on the plane .
What happened at the protests ?
Students gathered outside at least two universities , Sharif and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay respect to the victims .
Protests turned angry in the evening .
The semi-official Fars news agency carried a rare report of the unrest , saying up to 1,000 people had chanted slogans against leaders and tore up pictures of Soleimani .
The students called for those responsible for the downing the plane , and those they said had covered up the action , to be prosecuted .
Chants included `` commander-in-chief resign '' , referring to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei , and `` death to liars '' .
Fars said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who were blocking roads .
Social media footage appeared to show tear gas being fired .
Social media users also vented anger at the government 's actions .
One wrote on Twitter : `` I will never forgive the authorities in my country , the people who were on the scene and lying . ''
The protests were , however , far smaller than the mass demonstrations across Iran in support of Soleimani after he was killed .
What has been the reaction ?
President Trump tweeted in both English and Farsi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and suffering Iranian people : I have stood with you since the beginning of my presidency and my government will continue to stand with you .
`` We are following your protests closely .
Your courage is inspiring . ''
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo tweeted video of the protests in Iran , saying : `` The voice of the Iranian people is clear .
They are fed up with the regime 's lies , corruption , ineptitude , and brutality of the IRGC [ Revolutionary Guards ] under Khamenei 's kleptocracy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ deserve a better future . ''
The UK 's Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab issued an angry statement after British ambassador Rob Macaire was arrested `` without grounds or explanation '' in a `` flagrant violation of international law '' at one of the protests in Tehran .
Mr Macaire was detained at the demonstration outside Amir Kabir and was later released .
Mr Raab said Iran could `` continue its march towards pariah status ... or take steps to de-escalate tensions and engage in a diplomatic path forwards '' .
How did the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Iran had denied reports its missiles had brought down the plane , with one spokesman accusing Western nations of `` lying and engaging in psychological warfare '' .
But on Saturday morning , a statement read on state TV accepted the plane had been shot down .
He said a missile operator had acted independently and alone , mistaking the plane for a `` cruise missile '' as there had been reports that such missiles had been fired at Iran .
`` He had 10 seconds to decide .
He could have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and under such circumstances he took the wrong decision , '' Gen Hajizadeh said .
`` He was obliged to make contact and get verification .
But apparently , his communications system had some disruptions . ''
Gen Hajizadeh said the military would upgrade its systems to prevent such `` mistakes '' in the future .
He said he had `` wished he was dead '' after being told of the missile strike .
Gen Hajizadeh said he had informed the authorities about what had happened on Wednesday , raising questions about why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ayatollah Khamenei said there was `` proof of human error '' , while President Hassan Rouhani said Iran `` deeply regrets this disastrous mistake '' .
Foreign Minister Javad Zarif laid part of the blame on the US .
`` Human error at a time of crisis caused by US adventurism led to [ this ] disaster , '' he said .
How have Canada and Ukraine reacted ?
Both Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with Mr Rouhani on Saturday .
• Plane crash victims 'were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so many Canadians on the plane ?
Mr Trudeau said he was `` outraged and furious '' and had told Mr Rouhani that there must be a full investigation with `` full clarity on how such a horrific tragedy could have occurred '' .
Mr Trudeau said : `` Canada will not rest until we get the accountability , justice and closure the families deserve ... they are hurt , angry and grieving and they want answers . ''
Mr Zelensky , who has demanded compensation and an apology , said Mr Rouhani @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involved in this air disaster will be brought to justice '' .
In the Canadian city of Edmonton , Pegah Salari is helping to organise a memorial service for the victims from the city on Sunday .
She says the latest admission by Iran means `` now it 's more than grief '' , first felt in the Iranian-Canadian community there .
`` It 's anger , frustration , '' she said .
Many on the plane were living there , including 10 people - faculty members , students , and alumni - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salari is openly critical and distrustful of the Iranian government and is watching news of the protests in Iran with both trepidation and hope .
There are some in the Iranian diaspora in Canada who support the government in Tehran , which can cause tension , she said .
For the moment , that has been set aside , Ms Salari says .
`` It 's not a political matter , it has nothing to do with economics .
This for the first time is a human tragedy and all those lost lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eyes . ''

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bbc--2020-01-11--Iran plane crash: Missile struck underneath cockpit - Ukraine

Ukraine 's top security official , Oleksiy Danilov , has told the BBC that his country 's investigators had already @ @ @ @ @ brought down a Ukrainian passenger jet , before Iran changed its position .
After initially @ @ @ @ @ admitted that Ukraine International Airlines flight PS-752 crashed as a result of `` human error @ @ @ @ @ as a cruise missile .

Ukraine's top security official, Oleksiy Danilov, has told the BBC that his country's investigators had already gathered evidence that a missile brought down a Ukrainian passenger jet, before Iran changed its position.
After initially denying responsibility, Tehran has admitted that Ukraine International Airlines flight PS-752 crashed as a result of "human error" when it was misidentified as a cruise missile.


bbc--2020-01-11--Queen and Prince Harry to hold talks over Sussexes' future

The Queen and the Duke of Sussex are to hold talks at Sandringham on Monday to discuss the future roles of Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex .
Palace officials have also told the BBC the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge are expected to attend the meeting .
The Sussexes say they plan to step back as senior members of the royal family .
There is no suggestion that a conclusion will be reached at the meeting .
But the BBC 's royal correspondent Jonny Dymond says it is hoped that the talks will produce a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to defining the couple 's new relationship with the Royal Family - in line with the Queen 's wish to find a solution within days .
He added that there were still `` formidable obstacles '' to overcome in the talks .
• Your questions answered on Harry and Meghan statement • Why Meghan and Harry have Canada in their sights • How could the Sussexes make money ?
Monday 's gathering at the Queen 's estate in Norfolk follows several meetings and consultations in the wake of the couple 's announcement earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page , Prince Harry and Meghan said they intended to `` step back '' as senior members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent .
The Queen , Prince Charles , William and Harry are expected to review a range of possibilities for the Sussexes , taking into account the plans outlined by Prince Harry and Meghan .
If a deal is agreed in the coming days , there is a general understanding that it will take some time to implement .
Monday 's royal summit may not be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out ; but enough progress has been made by palace staff and civil servants for the most senior members of the family to meet to discuss some pretty concrete proposals on the way ahead for Prince Harry and Meghan .
There are still formidable obstacles - it 's not at all clear how much in the way of royal duties the prince and Meghan see themselves doing .
On that will hang issues such as funding and liaison between the palace and Prince Harry and Meghan 's new organisation .
Unpicking the current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one , that lasts , will be even tougher .
There 's a strong desire to get this done .
But equally the deal must be robust and workable .
Precedent is being established here - a way of doing things that may extend in years to come to other members of the royal family .
Meghan returned to Canada to join her son Archie amid the ongoing talks , which have involved the UK and Canadian governments .
She and Prince Harry had been in Canada over Christmas , before they returned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six-week break from royal duties .
On Friday , the couple 's official Instagram account returned to publicising their appearances .
Pictures were posted showing the couple during a private visit on Tuesday to a community kitchen in north Kensington , west London , where meals were cooked for families displaced by the Grenfell Tower fire .
• Where do Prince Harry and Meghan get their money ?
• How Meghan ‘ tripped and fell ’ into Harry ’ s life In their announcement on Wednesday evening , Prince Harry and Meghan revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK and North America , while `` continuing to honour our duty to the Queen , the Commonwealth , and our patronages '' .
The Royal Family was said to be `` hurt '' at the couple 's announcement .
It is understood the Queen was not consulted in advance of their decision .
Last October , Prince Harry and Meghan publicly revealed their struggles under the media spotlight .
Former actress Meghan , who is American , lived and worked in Toronto where she starred in the popular US drama Suits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launch their own Sussex Royal charity , which they set up after splitting from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge 's foundation in June last year .
It was revealed in December the couple had made an application to trademark their Sussex Royal brand across a string of items including books , calendars , clothing , charitable fundraising , education and social care services .
Do you have any questions about Harry and Meghan 's decision to step back as senior royals ?
In some cases your question will be published , displaying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
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Monday's royal summit may not be the last such gathering needed to sort things out; but enough progress has been made by palace staff and civil servants for the most senior members of the family to meet to discuss some pretty concrete proposals on the way ahead for Prince Harry and Meghan.


bbc--2020-01-11--Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman?

Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman?

On Saturday , hundreds gathered to mourn the death of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman , the @ @ @ @ @ .
After overthrowing his father in a bloodless coup ruled for almost 50 years , @ @ @ @ @ as a leader ?

On Saturday, hundreds gathered to mourn the death of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman, the Arab world's longest-serving ruler.
After overthrowing his father in a bloodless coup ruled for almost 50 years, but what was he like as a leader?