www4acaa4f9

Brixit

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 17:02:09 GMT

What does Brexit mean?

“Brexit” is the short-hand term being used to describe the UK’s exit from the European Union (EU).

The UK voted to leave the EU following a referendum in June 2016. In March 2017, the UK Government started the process of leaving the EU by triggering Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union. The UK is expected to remain a member of the EU until 29 March 2019.

What is Article 50?

Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union is a provision in law which sets out how a Member State can leave the EU.

What has been announced by the European Council in November 2018?

The EU and UK have signed a Withdrawal Deal on the UK’s departure from the EU, including a transition period until 31 December 2020. They have also agreed a top level political agreement on the future UK-EU relationship which is not legally binding at this stage.

Following the June 2016 referendum vote to leave the European Union (EU), the UK Government started the exit process by triggering Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union in March 2017. This exit is being referred to as ‘Brexit’.

The UK is due to leave the European Union (EU) on 29 March 2019.

On 25 November 2018 the European Council announced that the EU and the UK signed a Withdrawal Agreement for the UK’s departure from the EU on 29 March 2019.

On 15 January 2019 the UK parliament declined to support the UK Government’s Withdrawal Deal for the UK’s departure from the EU. Our Brexit planning continues unchanged. This is because we have been preparing for a number of scenarios including a ‘no deal’ scenario to ensure we can continue to support our customers.

We will continue to monitor the situation regularly to ensure we’re ready for Brexit, our aim is to support customers with the same level of service and range of products as we do today.

Key Dates to remember:

October 17-18th 2018

The European Council summit. Discussion on Withdrawal Agreement plus frame work for future relation.

December 13th 2018

The European Council summit. Last schedule for 2018 summit.

The UK Parliament

December 2018 - February 2019

Members of parliament expected to vote on the withdrawal Agreement.

Also to be approved in the European Parliament in a plenary vote.

March 2019

European Council Summit

Final Council Summit

March 29th 2019

The UK Parliament

Pass on Implementation Bill

March 29th 2019

The UK Leaves the European Union

At 23:00 or 11:00pm UK time.

March 29th 2019

If agreed upon a Transitionary Period

The UK will be subject to the European Council Rules until the of 2020.

May 23 -26th 2019

The European Council

Election for the European Parliament.

Where a total of 27 European countries will assemble.

The UK will not be represented.

December 31st 2020

The UK Transitory period

Ends if agreed upon by the

European Council

What happens next?

The Withdrawal Deal now needs be approved by member states and the UK & European Parliaments. It is expected that the full future EU-UK deal, including for financial services will be worked through during the transition period.

Which countries that are currently in the European Council?

The EU currently consists of:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the UK.

Which countries are included in the European Economic Area (EEA)?

The EEA includes EU countries and also Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

It allows them to be part of the EU’s single market.

Switzerland is neither an EU nor EEA member but is part of the single market - this means Swiss nationals have the same rights to live and work in the UK as other EEA nationals.

Further Information

For more information on Brexit:

FCA Brexit site - https://www.fca.org.uk/eu-withdrawal
UK Government Brexit site - https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-exiting-the-european-union
Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Brexit site - http://www.cbi.org.uk/business-issues/brexit-and-eu-negotiations/

https://personal.natwest.com/personal/support-centre/brexit-hub.html?M=Y&A=3&PS=P1&AT=ZJ&ES=01&CIN=E32AF478380BC2929128AB7FE1426AB36719B899&BIN=EFE43DEF97EB295FE99C3753F2D740D7B36DF689&CS=C3&CDE1=Y&CDE2=&CDE3=N&CDE4=N&CDE5=N&CDE6=Y&CDE7=NR&CDE8=N&CDE11=N&CDE12=N&CDE13=N&CDE14=N&CDE15=N&CDE16=Y&CDE17=N&CDE18=N&CDE19=N&CDE20=N&CDE21=N&CDE22=N&CDE23=N&CDE24=N&CDE25=NE&CDE30=N&CDE31=N&CDE32=N&CDE33=0&CDE35=N&CDE36=N&CDE37=N&CDE38=N&CDE40=N&CDE41=N&CDE42=N&CDE43=N&CDE45=N&CDE46=N&CDE47=N

Jamaican Returning Residents

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 17:02:05 GMT

Returning Resident hand book

Message regarding Returning Residents incidents in Jamaica,

from H.E. Seth George Ramocan, CD, High Commissioner for Jamaica

December 5, 2018

Dear Fellow Jamaicans and Friends of Jamaica,

I am deeply saddened, as you no doubt are, to receive news of the untimely deaths in Jamaica of two (2) members of the Jamaican family. I wish to convey deepest condolences on behalf of the staff of the Jamaican High Commission and indeed the Government of Jamaica, to the families of Ms. Karen Cleary-Brown and Ms. Barbara Findlay.

These regrettable incidents have highlighted the need for, and the importance of the Government of Jamaica’s relentless efforts to curtail the scourge of crime which continues to negatively affect families, as well as Jamaica’s local and international image. Please be assured of the Government’s commitment in addressing this serious challenge through the implementation of deliberate strategies, such as the States of Public Emergency and the Zones of Special Operations (ZOSO), as well as various social intervention programmes. While these initiatives have assisted in reducing the overall levels of crime, the situation remains a grave concern and as such, the Government of Jamaica is resolute in its crime fighting efforts.

Please find attached for information, the recently published “ Returning Residents Safety Handbook” which was previously transmitted. The Handbook has useful information on the various Government initiatives, as well as essential contacts in relation to the Government’s thrust towards a safe and secure environment for all Jamaicans.

Please share this Handbook among your networks.

Kind regards.

Seth George Ramocan, CD

High Commissioner

Jamaican High Commission

1-2 Prince Consort Road

London SW7 2BZ

http://jhcuk.org/news/message-from-h.e.-seth-george-ramocan-cd-high-commissioner-for-jamaica

RETURNING RESIDENTS INFORMATION

Returning Residents Safety Hand Book - revised Dec. 2018

This is an excerpt from the Returning Residents Information Booklet . You may download and view the booklet in its entirety, including important import customs duty rates and exemptions.

In recognition of the need to facilitate the relocation and resettlement of those Jamaicans who return home to retire, invest, work or share experiences and expertise gained abroad, the Government of Jamaica instituted a number of procedures aimed at simplifying the bureaucratic processes. One such procedure was the introduction of the Charter for Long-term Returning Residents in 1993.

In addition to some general guidelines, there is specific information on the following areas:

Eligibility for duty concessions
Importation of personal and household effects
Tools of trade
The Clearance of unaccompanied Baggage
Importation of Motor Vehicles
Vital Contact Information

Download and view the Returning Residents Information booklet

Motor Vehicle Importation

http://jhcuk.org/assets/files/Final%20%20Motor%20Vehicle%20Policy.pdf

Banquet and Dance

airiamdelivery@gmail.com (Lady Simone ) — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 15:27:42 GMT

Jamaica and the World Custom Organisation

airiamdelivery@gmail.com (Lady Simone ) — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 15:14:18 GMT

WCO AND UNCTAD WORK HAND IN HAND TO SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ASYPM IN JAMAICA

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) conducted a joint mission in Jamaica from 24 to 30 May 2018. The mission aimed at developing Jamaica’s expertise in data analytics capacities in the ASYCUDA Performance Measurement (ASYPM) module. ASYPM utilizes the customs data (operational and transactional) present in the ASYCUDA World (AW) system to study operational trends and assist in the decision-making process. The indicators are intelligence-based and used to produce quantitative data to illustrate reforms and processes.

In highly interactive sessions, the WCO and UNCTAD presented the current work on Performance Measurement, a topic of critical importance in both organizations’ strategic agendas. In relation to the data validation, the facilitators alongside the Project Performance Team members reduced the priority indicators to a more workable number and were able to identify trends and specific procedures that after embedded in the AW, will facilitate the calculation of clearance time for all declarations.

An Action Plan was defined to keep the track of future activities and follow-up on specific requirements, such as data extraction and uploading into ASYPM. The CEO/Commissioner of Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) and incoming CBC10 Chair, Mrs. Velma Ricketts Walker, stressed her continued support in ensuring that staff continue to acquire performance measurement expertise to facilitate informed decisions.

https://www.jacustoms.gov.jm/article/wco-and-unctad-work-hand-hand-support-implementation-asypm-jama...

World Customs Organisation

http://www.wcoomd.org/en/media/newsroom/2018/june/wco-and-unctad-work-hand-in-hand-to-support-the-im...

Returning Residents to Jamaica

airiamdelivery@gmail.com (Lady Simone ) — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 15:14:16 GMT

Additional Security Support Systems for Returning Residents

The JCF is offering assurance to returning residents that their safety and security remains a high priority of the organization, Strategies and support systems are currently being bolstered for their protection. This comes against the background of the recent incidents against returning residents and the concerns expressed by members of the Diaspora to the Commissioner, whilst in recent meetings in the United Kingdom.

Some of the measures being pursued are the establishment of a point of contact for the Diaspora to address specific concerns about cases; it is also being considered to establish a service to do background checks on request, of persons who returning residents wish to employ. A Liaison Officer will also be appointed in each Police division to monitor and provide returning residents with timely feedback on policing matters. Meetings will also be held regularly at the divisional level to enhance the sharing of important information.

This will be augmented with a number of investigative strategies that will pay particular attention to cases involving returning residents. Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Crime, Mr. Selvin Hay, says “Our focus on the safety and protection of our returning residents is unequivocal. We take all reported incidents of crimes against them seriously and will further our work with our partners in Government and Non-Government Organisations to ensure communities are safe spaces for all who live, work or visit.” This, he says, will be complemented by the review of all unsolved serious crimes committed against returning residents.

The Police are also reminding returning residents to do their due diligence before entering into arrangements, as this may minimise their risk of being exposed to persons who may be seeking to get close to them with the intention of victimising them for financial or other gains, and to immediately report any threats or crimes committed against them to the Police.

http://jhcuk.org/news/news-release-additional-security-support-systems-for-returning-residents

Tesco New Secret Stores

airiamdelivery@gmail.com (Lady Simone ) — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 15:14:13 GMT

Tesco plans for mystery new-format stores

Tesco is planning to open a number of stores in a mystery new format.

The store chain, the country's biggest food retailer, would not comment, but there are strong hints the new-look stores will be aimed at challenging discounters, such as Aldi and Lidl.

A whole range of jobs are on offer at new-format stores in Wandsworth, London, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire and Immingham, Lincolnshire.

Reports suggest it could be called Jack's, after Tesco founder Jack Cohen.

The job adverts, which are headed "Tesco - New Store Format" all contain a line saying: "The new retail format will be operated separately from the core Tesco business and as such benefits offered will be different from those offered at Tesco."

Tesco's move comes as retailers face an increasingly competitive environment.

Since their entry into the UK, discount chains Aldi and Lidl have steadily increased their share of the market and now account for 14% of grocery sales.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-44921617

Me the Bee

airiamdelivery@gmail.com (Lady Simone ) — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 15:14:10 GMT

The 13-year-old who built a best-selling lemonade brand

The BBC's weekly The Boss series profiles a different business leader from around the world. This week we spoke to Mikaila Ulmer, the 13-year-old chief executive of Me & The Bees Lemonade.

Mikaila Ulmer's lemonade is now stocked in more than 500 stores across the US, but unfortunately she has slipped to a "C" in her maths class.

Running a successful business is very much a full-time job, but Mikaila - the founder and boss of Me & The Bees Lemonade - also has to make time for her school work.

Just 13 years old, one day she will be in class, the next she could be speaking at an entrepreneurship conference.

"It is not the easiest, that is for sure," she says.

"Sometimes I have to miss classes to do an interview, or travel for a TV show. Or I'll miss a big show or presentation because I have a large project or test at school."

Now selling 360,000 bottles of her lemonade a year, with stockists including upmarket supermarket chain Whole Foods Market, Mikaila is one of the youngest business owners in the US.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-44860428

Brexit Accidental No Deal

airiamdelivery@gmail.com (Lady Simone ) — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 15:12:49 GMT

Brexit: Jeremy Hunt warns EU of 'no deal by accident'

Jeremy Hunt has warned that without a "change in approach from the EU negotiators", there is now a "very real risk of a Brexit no deal by accident".

The foreign secretary said "many" in the EU believed they just had to "wait long enough and Britain will blink" but "that's not going to happen".

He warned of "unintended geopolitical consequences" with just Vladimir Putin "rejoicing" if there was no deal.

Germany's foreign minister says it wants a deal "not a disorderly Brexit".

Heiko Maas, who held talks with Mr Hunt in Berlin, said: "We know that everyone has to make mutual concessions to get this deal.

"We know that the European Union has its interests, overall interests, so not just individual member-states but EU institutions.

"And of course Britain doesn't want to unnecessarily complicate framework conditions for economic activity, but also security questions, or our foreign policy cooperation.

"It becomes more difficult anyway as a non-member of the European Union.

"So, we've agreed we will prepare bilaterally for the time after Brexit."

Mr Hunt said a no deal would be "challenging" but the UK would still "thrive economically".

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-44918262

Jamaica 56th Anniversary Church Service

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 14 May 2018 14:32:54 GMT

Second Anniversary of the Windrush Generation

BCIC launches first regional office in Barbados

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 14 May 2018 14:32:47 GMT

British Caribbean Insurance Company Limited (BCIC), Jamaica’s second largest insurance company, is expanding its regional footprint with the beginning of operations in Barbados.

BCIC’s first branch in Barbados opened recently, backed by the trademark service, knowledge and capacity that has helped build its more than J$6 billion company over the last 55-years.

The launch of BCIC in Barbados fulfils a long-time desire of the ICD group and its chairman Joseph M Matalon, to expand BCIC into the Caribbean region.

BCIC’s operations in Barbados will be the first for the company outside of Jamaica, which is owned jointly by the ICD Group (68.5 per cent) and the Victoria Mutual Building Society (31.5 per cent). BCIC offers general, home, and motor vehicle insurance with the latter representing the bulk of its business and will offer the same categories of stellar products in Barbados.

“We are focused on replicating our Jamaican success over the last five decades in Barbados. We’re bringing our way of thinking about insurance and insurance products to the table, and most importantly, we are taking our ‘customer comes first’ attitude as well,” said Peter Levy, BCIC’s managing director.

“Our innovative products and great customer service have served us well in Jamaica and the people of Barbados will now have a chance to think, unthink and rethink everything they think they know about insurance,” continued Levy, who also heads the Barbados team.

Expanded Responsibilies

Several other Jamaicans have had their responsibilities expanded to include management of the BCIC Barbados operations including Dorothy Russell-Clarke and Monique Cohen, general managers for Claims & Legal, and Insurance Solutions respectively. Michelle Anderson, general manager for Sales & Distribution, Garth Rowe, general manager finance, marketing manager Simone Foote and information technology manager Benjamin Pringle have also seen their roles expanded to cover BCIC Barbados.

Among other things, BCIC is known for its service model that puts considerable focus on claims resolution. The company responds to and resolves claims faster than industry times and Levy is hoping it will be a primary differentiator for BCIC in Barbados. Levy said BCIC is also bringing improved efficiencies through its online portal, enhanced product benefits, packages and discounts as well as insurance premium financing.

“We think first of what a customer wants and the situations that they face. If we can think ahead, then we get to pleasantly surprise them and enhance their quality of life beyond their expectations.” Levy added. “Our innovations are rooted in creating customer comfort and peace of mind.”

Source: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20170721/bcic-launches-first-regional-office-barbados

Re-entry Permit to the USA

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 14 May 2018 14:32:42 GMT

Collection of Re-entry Permit Travel Documents from USCIS London

If you filed an Application for Travel Document (USCIS Form I-131), and you have requested that your re-entry permit travel document be sent to the U.S. Consulate or the USCIS Field Office – London , then you can use our status PDF to check if your re-entry permit travel document has arrived.

(Please note that historically, it normally takes at least two weeks from the time your reentry permit is mailed for this office to receive it).

This list was last updated on/for: Friday, 11 May 2018:

Click for the latest list of Re-Entry Permits Received by USCIS (PDF, 2 pages)

If your reentry permit is listed, please see our instructions about an Appointment for Reentry Permit Collection (PDF, 1 page).

President Trump is coming to the UK

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 14 May 2018 14:32:34 GMT

It’s official! President Trump is coming to the UK on July 13.

Official portrait of Ambassador Robert Wood Johnson

This op-ed by Ambassador Johnson was featured in the Sun on Sunday of April 29, 2018.

It’s official! President Trump is coming to the UK July 13th. Put the date in your calendar because I guarantee this is a visit you are not going to want to miss. President Trump is not only the leader of the most powerful country in the world. He is the closest friend and ally Britain could ever hope to have in the Oval Office.

The UK has always been special to President Trump. His mother was born and raised here and this country is in his blood. He loves your amazing countryside, your proud history and your deep sense of tradition. He respects your skill in business and industry. But of all the things that make this country great, it is the spirit and resolve of the British people which the President admires above all.

We know that the British can always be counted on to go the distance. When Americans and Brits are together, there is nothing we can’t do. Together we’ve won wars and secured peace. We’ve traded and grown prosperous. We’ve made incredible scientific breakthroughs and unimaginable leaps in technology. It doesn’t matter whether times are good or times are bad, when America and Britain stand together, we are at our very best.

No one understands that more than President Trump. On his mission to make America great for ordinary men and women, he wants Britain by our side making the same journey. When he appointed me his Ambassador, he was clear: our goal is to bring America and Britain closer than ever before.

Our alliance has already been unrivalled for decades and decades. Today our Armed Forces are so interoperable, we can just swap crews on each other’s planes. Our intelligence agencies work very closely, side by side.

It’s exactly the same story when you look at our economic partnership. We are so close we invest more in each other than in any other country – over a trillion dollars’ worth of investment. American businesses choose Britain for their headquarters. British companies head Stateside to start their global journeys. And together we create millions of jobs – almost 50,000 in my home state of New Jersey alone.

But the President is right to want to take our special relationship to another level. For starters, there is huge potential to do more business together. President Trump has slashed tax and regulation and unleashed the full power of American industry. As a business man, he understood what needed to be done to get businesses investing – and more importantly, hiring.

The American economy is now booming in a way I’ve never seen before. Investment and jobs are flooding back. Factories are opening up once again. Business and consumer confidence has never been higher. Now is the time for British companies to break into America’s huge market and grow their businesses like never before.

The future is full of opportunity for trade. When the UK cuts loose from the EU, you will have the option to sign trade deals with countries around the world. Of course, this will be dependent on the final agreement the UK strikes with the EU. But if there is room to negotiate a trade deal, no one would be more enthusiastic than the President. President Trump has supported Brexit from the outset. He has made it clear he would love to sign a deal. And he would never let America’s best ally wait at the back of the line.

He would also never desert Britain in your hour of need – just look at how we responded when the Russians launched their nerve agent attack on British soil. But Russia is not the only threat. Despite all the signs that our pressure is starting to pay off, North Korea remains a significant threat. We’ve also seen rising aggression from China and Iran. We’ve seen the inhuman use of chemical weapons. We’ve seen the devastation caused by international terrorists and criminals.

Now is not the time to let our guard down. America and Britain must strengthen our joint military defense. We must lead NATO forward. We must invest in the latest equipment for our troops. We must fortify our cyber defenses against the hourly onslaughts of our adversaries.

So this visit by the President is very important for both our countries. History has shown that there is no greater alliance. But our alliance is as necessary today as it has ever been. Having President Trump as such a close friend and ally at this time could not be more important.

https://uk.usembassy.gov/where-is-the-new-us-embassy-in-london-who-is-american-ambassador/

Ministry of Foreign Affaires and Foreign Trade of Barbados

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 14 May 2018 14:32:26 GMT

The Windrush Generation The View from Europe David Jessop

For years now, Caribbean High Commissioners, activists, church organisations and community oriented Caribbean companies have been raising with the British government and parliamentarians the shocking way in which undocumented members of the Caribbean Diaspora who came to Britain between 1948 and 1971 have been treated.

This has involved, in the absence of proof of citizenship, the British authorities denying individuals of Caribbean origin medical care and pensions, and in some cases holding them in custody pending deportation. This treatment comes despite their demonstrable contribution to British society and life-long residence in Britain.

However, an interview on the BBC’s morning domestic radio news programme ‘Today’, which is said to shape Britain’s national political dialogue, changed all of that.

The High Commissioner for Barbados, Guy Hewitt, in an impassioned and personal series of comments, spoke movingly about the plight and suffering of many members of the Windrush generation and their experience of a form of persecution by the British authorities.

In what must be an all-time first for a Caribbean diplomat, he turned the issue into a front-page story for a week in every single British newspaper and made the appalling treatment of possibly thousands of individuals in the Caribbean Diaspora in Britain the lead item on every radio and television news programme.

The story that he told not only emotionally touched huge numbers of British people, but demonstrated the profoundly wrong ways in which a group of individuals of Caribbean origin have been treated in a manner best described as Kafkaesque. In doing so, he turned their personal experience into a national political issue reaching to the highest levels of government.

As the week went on the media carried heart rending interviews with ordinary members of the Windrush generation whose proof of residence had been lost by officials, who had been denied medical treatment, and who had been told they would be deported to a country, Jamaica, where they knew no one and had not been since early childhood.

It was a story that has dominated UK consciousness, causing politicians in both political parties and in particular the British Prime Minister who was Home Office Minister (interior ministry) at the time that the UK’s ‘hostile environment’ policy on undocumented migrants was ordered, to run for cover. What was then said was often equally shocking, demonstrating a lack of understanding among leading politicians of the personal implications of agreeing to policies that touch some of those in society least able to defend themselves.

Because the issue arose in the week in which the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (CHOGM) was being held in London the issue had focus. The presence of Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness and others, enabled the message to be amplified and for the region to insist on a meeting with the British Prime Minister, Theresa May.

In the past during CHOGM this had always been the case, but it seems that Downing Street officials, regarding the Caribbean as being of little political consequence and then tone-deaf to what was unfolding, had to rapidly reverse their position and indicate that Mrs May would meet with CARICOM Prime Ministers.

Since then, apologies have been issued and a special unit has been set up in the Home Office to address the issue of the Windrush generation of undocumented migrants living in Britain. Despite this it is widely believed on the street that some older residents of Caribbean origin have been deported.

It is a story that will continue to run and one which Caribbean Governments and the Diaspora will need to ensure continues to hold British public attention.

In part it may do so because it has resonance with what happens after Brexit. In something close to a rerun of what happened when the countries of the Caribbean went to independence, as many as three million EU citizens living in the UK, will need to register if they too are not to fall foul of the UK ‘hostile environment’ approach which requires landlords, employers and public services to require proof of residence.

What is significant about the events of the last week in the UK is that it demonstrated how a confluence of timing, events and a willingness to speak out can bring about change.

Other than the issue of re-banding the UK’s Air Passenger Duty, largely a symbolic win for the region in 2014, the Caribbean and its diaspora has struggled to be taken notice of politically in London.

Uniquely, however, all of this was taking place as Commonwealth leaders were gathering in London for their biennial summit; one at which Britain was hoping to re-engage with the Commonwealth, deepening friendships and shared values and as the advocates of Brexit hope, enabling new trade deals to be struck.

Notwithstanding, the headlines in the days before the summit suggested the opposite, that the UK was rejecting some of those from the Caribbean generation that had demonstrably provided the greatest contribution to the UK’s post second world war recovery.

While the British Government may now be moving more generally to redefine its approach to immigration in ways that speak to its benefits, it will have to do much more to demonstrate that it has shed its past belief in aggressively reducing migrant numbers by picking on those who are least able to defend themselves.

In an indication that the events of the last week may have hit home, the government’s Environment Secretary, Michael Gove, a potential contender for the future leadership of Britain’s Conservative Party, told the media that government had to be more positive about the vital contribution of immigration to the economy and public services.

In speaking out, the Caribbean has not only helped the Windrush generation and made Britain more aware of its colonial past, it has caused the UK government to begin to recognise that a hostile environment for migrants is unacceptable.

http://foreign.gov.bb/featured/256-we-have-overcome

Ministry of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 14 May 2018 14:32:12 GMT

New Head of Mission receives Instrument of Appointment

New Head of Mission receives Instrument of Appointment

27 April 2018

PORT OF SPAIN: 26TH APRIL, 2018

Senator the Honourable Dennis Moses, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs presented the Instrument of Appointment on behalf of Dr. The Honourable Keith Rowley, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, to Mr. Stephen B. Seedansingh, Jr., as Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador-designate to the People’s Republic of China on 26th April, 2018 at the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs. His Excellency Stephen B. Seedansingh Jr., will assume duties in China with accreditation to Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea and Thailand.

In addition to congratulating Ambassador-designate Seedansingh on his appointment, Minister Moses thanked him for his willingness to serve Trinidad and Tobago and emphasized that his Ambassadorship is an important one since China has been identified in the Government’s Official Policy Document as a country with which we wish to intensify relations. Minister Moses pointed out that despite the numerous achievements of our multi-faceted bilateral relationship thus far, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructural and economic cooperation, there is room for further growth and advancement in the interest of both countries. His Excellency was advised that he would be guided by the Government’s policy framework which underscores that the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs and its diplomatic network of overseas missions must be at the frontline of projecting the interests of Trinidad and Tobago internationally.

In concluding, the Minister advised the Ambassador that his immersion in his new role would be immediate as he will be involved in the upcoming Official Visit of the Prime Minister to China which provides significant opportunity for bolstering the relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and China.

Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs

Click to view official media release- New Head of Mission receives Instrument of Appointment - 26 April 2018

Up Coming Events!

Corpus Christi Date: 31/05Corpus Christi is a long-standing tradition in our islands, going back to our pre-British occupation by the Catholic Spaniards. Though mainly observed by Roman Catholics, it is a designated public holiday. This special Feast Day is celebrated on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday, in commemoration of the institution of the Holy Eucharist. The impressive processions that take place (the biggest is in front of the Cathedral on Independence Square in Port of Spain) give you just a glimpse into the sacredness and significance of the occasion.

http://www.ttconnect.gov.tt/gortt/portal/ttconnect/!ut/p/a1/04_Sj9CPykssy0xPLMnMz0vMAfGjzOK9A40MTD0tjQ38Aw0sDYyCPA1dDUy9jd3DzIEKIlEUBLm7ARW4mhp6eIcZGxgYEKffAAdwJKg_ODVPP1w_Cq8yLwMMBZjOBCvA446C3NCICs9MRwB0Pa7D/dl5/d5/L2dJQSEvUUt3QS80SmlFL1o2X0tRMjA1STkzME9RMDkwMlJJMUUwNUszR0ow/

Barbados Tax and Duty Free

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 11:09:27 GMT

Duties Charged on Select Imports

Most excisable goods are subject to the tax at a specific rate, with the exception of motor vehicles, which are subject to ad valorem rates (tax based on the value of the item). Very few items are exempt from excise taxes. These include motor vehicles imported by the diplomatic corps and other organisations exempt from customs duty under Part II-B of the Customs Tariff. Excise Tax is charged on four categories of goods: Motor Vehicles; Tobacco Products; Alcoholic Beverages and Petroleum Products.

Value Added Tax

Value Added Tax is charged at the rate of 17.5%. This tax is compounded and is charged on the total of the CIF Value and any other import taxes. Some goods are zero-rated.

Duties Charged on Select Imports

Generally, most items are subject rate of duty of 20%. Below are a few examples that are exceptions to this:

Product

Agriculture
Commercial and New Furniture Clothing
Jewelry
Motor Cars
T-Shirts

Rate of Duty

40% 60% 60% 60% 45% 115%

Import License Required

Yes Yes

Calculation of Duties and Taxes
A Specific Example of the method of calculation of duties and taxes is provided below:

Customs Value
Import Duty: 20% of Customs Value ($100.00 * 20%) Environmental Levy: 1% of Customs Value ($100.00 * 1%)

Value Added Tax: 17.5% of (Customs Value Plus Sum of Duties and Taxes) (($100.00 + $20.00 + $1.00)*17.5%)

$100.00 $20.00 $1.00 $21.18

Total Duties and Taxes: ($20.00 + $1.00 + $21.18) $42.18

Payment of Duties and Taxes

The Customs Department will release your goods after all import requirements have been met, including the payment of duties and taxes. Upon receiving your payment, the computer system will print a detailed statement on the copies of your Customs Declaration. You will receive copies of the Customs ( http://businessbarbados.com/investor-guide/exporting-and-importing/ ) declaration with the printed statement. One of the copies will serve as your receipt.

Uncertified cheques may be accepted subject to the following conditions:

Youmusthavetwopiecesofpersonalidentification,oneofwhichmustbeaphoto identification;
Nochequepreviouslyissuedbyyouhasbeenreturnedforinsufficientfunds;
Thepaymentyouaremakingisnotforapenalty;
ThechequeisfromarecognisedBarbadianfinancialinstitution;and
Thechequeisnotwrittenbyorpayabletoathirdparty.

There is presently an Account Holders Module in place that allows for Importers to take delivery of their goods and pay the duties and taxes within 10 days of assessment of the declaration. A Bond must be executed to provide security for the duty liability. The Customs ( http://businessbarbados.com/investor-guide/exporting-and-importing/ ) and Excise Department is in the process of migrating to a Prepayment System, which allows importers to deposit sums of money with the Department and to draw down on these deposits and replenish them as necessary. Importers may contact the Computer Division for further details. Importers who have rush shipments and wish to clear them outside of the official hours may do so, but would be required to pay fees and travelling costs for the extra attendance of Customs personnel. Additional fees are required where the extra attendance of personnel from other regulatory agencies is necessary.

Connect with us for more relevant Informations.

Sending Barrels to Jamaica

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 16:31:15 GMT

Here are five easy steps for clearing them

https://www.jacustoms.gov.jm/branch/barrel

Biometric Passport

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 17:41:40 GMT

WHAT IS MOBILE PASSPORT CONTROL?
Mobile Passport Control (MPC) allows U.S. citizens and Canadian visitors to use the Mobile Passport app to expedite their entry process into the United States. It is the first app authorized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for eligible travelers with a smartphone or tablet to submit their passport information and answer CBP inspection-related questions prior to CBP inspection. Much like Automated Passport Control (APC), the app does not require pre-approval and is free to use. The app streamlines the traveler inspection process and enables CBP officers to focus more on the inspection and less on administrative functions.

HOW DOES MPC WORK?
Eligible travelers can download the Mobile Passport app from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Travelers will be prompted to create a profile via the app with their passport information. The profile includes the traveler’s name, gender, date of birth, and country of citizenship. Upon landing in the United States, travelers will complete the “New Trip” section by selecting their arrival airport and airline, taking a self-photo, and answering a series of CBP inspection-related questions. Once the traveler submits their transaction through the app, the traveler will receive an electronic receipt with an Encrypted Quick Response (QR) code. Travelers then bring their passport and mobile device with their digital bar-coded receipt to a CBP officer to finalize their inspection for entry into the United States.

WHERE CAN ELIGIBLE TRAVELERS USE MPC?
MPC is available to U.S. citizens and Canadian visitors at the following 21 U.S. international airports and one sea port of entry:

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
• Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
• William P. Hobby Houston International Airport (HOU)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
• Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• San Jose International Airport (SJC)
• Seattle Sea-Tac Airport (SEA)
• Tampa International Airport (TPA)
• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
• Port Everglades (PEV)
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control

New restrictions on food permit to the United States of America

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 17:20:50 GMT

Bringing food into the U.S.A without a permit is a thing of the past
According to the U.S.A Border agency

Many agriculture products are prohibited entry into the United States from certain countries because they may carry plant pests and foreign animal diseases. All agriculture items must be declared and are subject to inspection by a CBP Agriculture Specialist at ports of entry to ensure they are free of plant pests and foreign animal diseases. Prohibited or restricted items may include meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and products made from animal or plant materials. For generally allowed food items please visit USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Declared agriculture items, in non-commercial quantities, that are found to be prohibited or restricted by the CBP Agriculture Specialists can be abandoned at the port of entry should the traveler wish to continue into the U.S. However, undeclared prohibited agriculture items will be confiscated and can result in the issuance of a civil penalty to the traveler for failure to declare the prohibited item. All agricultural items that are abandoned or confiscated at ports of entry are destroyed in accordance with USDA approved destruction methods to prevent spread of pests and diseases.
Agricultural pests and diseases are a threat to U.S. crop production and to the livestock industry. Some animal diseases can be highly contagious and could cause severe economic damage to livestock and result in losses in production, which could lead to increased costs for meat and dairy products. Plant pests and disease, as well as invasive plant material can cause crop loss and also damage lawns, ornamental plants, and trees. Plant pest infestations can result in increased costs to consumers due to pest eradication efforts as well as lower crop yields. High risk plant pest and animal disease outbreaks within the U.S. could also adversely affect the economy as a result of reduced trade of U.S. origin goods to countries around the world.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security are partners in the effort to protect American agriculture against the introduction of pests and diseases at our nation's ports of entry. USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service determines what agricultural products are admissible into the U.S. and what products pose a risk and should be prohibited or restricted entry. U.S. Customs and Border Protection enforce these agricultural rules and regulations at ports of entry. Learn more about protecting agriculture.
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/agricultural-items

Barbie Ferreira, Jordyn Woods and more reveal what they wish people would stop saying to plus-size models.

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 18:37:40 GMT

A group of prominent plus-size and curve models have shared there comments.

A group of prominent plus-size and curve models have shared the common things people say to them about their bodies and size – and what people need to stop telling them.
UK size 16 model Barbie Ferreira, who gained a huge following for featuring in an un-retouched advert for American Eagle Outfitters campaign and through modelling for American Apparel, led the discussion in a video for Teen Vogue. She was joined by Hunter McGrady, Olivia Wilson, Jordyn Woods and Riley Ticotin for the talk.

McGrady, who has an Instagram following of 160,000, said she is tired of people constantly telling her she is “brave” simply because she is a curve model.
Similarly, model Wilson said she has been told: “Oh my god, you’re so lucky you get paid to eat.”
Woods, who has an Instagram following of 2.1 million, was discovered by her modelling agent on the social media site. Already in the public eye to some thanks to her appearances on Keeping Up with the Kardashians (she is a good friend of Kylie Jenner) she has since gone on to model for brands like Boohoo and Addition Elle.
Woods said something she gets particularly irked by is that when she posts photographs of herself exercising fans warn her “not to get too skinny”. Ferreira chimed in saying when she does the same she gets told: “Nooo I thought you were confident!”

Ticotin, a UK size 16 model for brands including Asos, says she wishes she did not get told she has a “great body” for a plus-size model. “Why can’t I just have a great body for life?” she asked.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/barbie-ferreira-jordyn-woods-hunter-mcgrady-riley-ticotin-p...

Japan's giant sinkhole starts sinking again after being repaired in two days.

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 18:32:39 GMT

Engineers impressed the world with speed of their job

A giant sinkhole in Japan that was apparently fixed within two days - in a repair that impressed the world - has been closed off once more after the ground began sinking again.
The enormous chasm, 15 metres deep and 30 metres wide, ripped apart the Fukuoka city road but was repaired within 48 hours after a mammoth engineering effort.
However, on Saturday, workmen observed 30 square metres of the road had sunk by around seven centimetres, forcing police to close it overnight.No damage was caused by the shifting ground and Hakata Street was later reopened.
It later emerged that engineers expected the repaired road to move a small amount following the repair, but this was not publicised by city officials.
The movement was caused as filler material - mostly soil, cement and sand - used to plug the sinkhole began to compress underground. Workers used 7,000 cubic metres of debris to fill the hole and anticipated it would take some time to settle.
The city mayor, Soichiro Takashima, issued an apology on Facebook.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/japan-sinkhole-fukuoka-road-engineering-mayor-soichiro-...

Donald Trump threatens to terminate Cuba deal if ‘Cuba is unwilling to make a better deal’

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 18:27:19 GMT

Mr Trump waded into the issue with a comment on Twitter

Mr Trump waded into the issue with a comment on Twitter Donald Trump has stormed into the uncertainty over the US’s future relationship with Cuba by threatening to scrap recent moves by Barack Obama to end a diplomatic stand-off that lasted more than 50 years. “If Cuba is unwilling to make a better deal for the Cuban people, the Cuban/American people and the U.S. as a whole, I will terminate deal,” Mr Trump said on Twitter on Monday, four days after the death of Cuban leader Fidel Castro. http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/donald-trump-cuba-deal-terminate-threaten-latest-a7443711.h...

Democratic National Committee tells FBI its headquarters 'may have been bugged' after finding evidence

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 18:23:03 GMT

The accusations that foes used a device to listen in on DNC calls

The accusations that foes used a device to listen in on DNC calls are reminiscent of the Watergate scandal in the 1970sThe DNC discovered a radio signal, which could have picked up phone calls
The Democratic National Committee has reportedly submitted evidence to the Federal Bureau of Investigation to suggest its headquarters were bugged.
As reported by Mother Jones, two anonymous DNC officials said that a sweep of its offices in Washington DC found a radio signal device near the chairman’s office which could have been used to listen to phone calls.
"We were told that this was something that could pick up calls from cell phones," a DNC official told the publication."The guys who did the sweep said it was a strong indication."
No device or possible culprits were discovered, however.
The two sources said the DNC had sent this information to the FBI, which did not comment.
The sweep in late October was ordered by Donna Brazile shortly after undercover conservative reporter James O’Keefe released a set of hidden cameraa videos to undermine the Democrats. The party became worried that Republicans or Russian intelligence agencies were trying to infiltrate their headquarters by posing as volunteers who operated phone banks and carried out other election activities.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/dnc-hack-russia-republican-democrat-bugged-headquar...

Could Hillary Clinton challenge the US election results over hacking fears?

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 18:18:23 GMT

Ms Clinton's team have spoken to scientists and lawyers who claim there is a trend between electronic voting and ballots for Donald Trump.

Ms Clinton's team have spoken to scientists and lawyers who claim there is a trend between electronic voting and ballots for Donald Trump.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton concedes the presidential election on November 9 Getty

Why are we asking this now?
A group of renowned computer scientists and lawyers are urging the Secretary of State to challenge the results in three swing states because of claims of possible evidence of hacking or manipulation. The coalition claims that counties within Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania, which relied on electronic-voting machines, voted largely in favour of Donald Trump. The trio of key states were won by Mr Trump.
In Wisconsin for example, Ms Clinton received 7 per cent fewer votes in the counties that used electronics instead of optical scanners and paper ballots.
Based on this statistical analysis, the Democrat supposedly may have been denied as many as 30,000 votes. She lost Wisconsin by 27,000 votes.
The group have reportedly said that while they have not found evidence of hacking - the pattern needs to be looked at by an independent review
It’s not the first time suggestions of hacking have surrounded US politics.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-elections/could-hillary-clinton-appeal-us-electi...

Brexit: Michael Gove's attack on OBR forecast for 'missing £200m-a-week dividend' dismissed by watchdog

ladysk20395@gmail.com (AIRIAM LORD) — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 18:14:40 GMT

The independent Office for Budget Responsibility hit back

The independent Office for Budget Responsibility hit back - pointing out that, in its gloomy economic calculations, the so-called ‘Brexit dividend’ had already been spent
Michael Gove has been left red-faced after the Treasury watchdog dismissed his claim that its gloomy economic forecast missed a £200m-a-week "Brexit dividend".
The former Justice Secretary hailed the small print of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) document, arguing it confirmed a huge potential spending boost from Brexit.
An open letter, signed by two other Tory former cabinet ministers, said: “The OBR has revealed that the British people will get back over £10bn net a year once we leave the EU.
“We believe that this Brexit dividend should be spent on our priorities - the most important of which is our NHS.”
But OBR chairman Robert Chote immediately dismissed the claim, pointing out the watchdog had included the money in its calculations – and had already assumed the money would be spent.
Therefore, Mr Gove and the other signatories were wrong to say the refund – even if Britain achieves it in full, in the Brexit negotiations – would temper the OBR’s stark warnings.
After the Autumn Statement, its report said Britain will have borrow an extra £122bn by 2022 – of which almost £58.7bn is a ‘black hole’ opened up because of the uncertainty created by EU withdrawal.
The annual budget deficit is forecast to be £30bn in 2019-20, instead of the £10bn projected in March, a staggering £40 billion swing into the red.
And Chancellor Philip Hammond will even struggle with his fresh target to wipe out the Budget deficit in the next Parliament - which could mean as late as 2025.
scald=4909606:sdl_editor_representation
Gallery title
Mr Chote told the BBC: “We assumed that any money that is saved from the net expenditure transfers we currently make to the European Union will be spent on something else.
“That’s why the public finances don’t improve to the degree that they would if we saved that money altogether.
“If you do spend all of it, then obviously the public finances are affected by that.”
The position is confirmed by page 158 of the OBR report, which reads: “For this forecast, we have made the fiscally neutral assumption that any reduction in these transfers to the EU would be recycled fully into extra domestic spending.”
The Labour MP Chuka Umunna said: “It's hard to believe someone with such a dodgy grasp of basic maths ever managed to become Education Secretary.
“We know what Michael Gove needs for Christmas - a calculator. And he ought to apologise for still peddling misleading figures and trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the British people.”
The letter was also signed by former ministers John Redwood and Peter Lilley, along with leading Leave-supporting Labour MP Gisela Stuart.
“If you do spend all of it, then obviously the public finances are affected by that.”
The position is confirmed by page 158 of the OBR report, which reads: “For this forecast, we have made the fiscally neutral assumption that any reduction in these transfers to the EU would be recycled fully into extra domestic spending.”
The Labour MP Chuka Umunna said: “It's hard to believe someone with such a dodgy grasp of basic maths ever managed to become Education Secretary.
“We know what Michael Gove needs for Christmas - a calculator. And he ought to apologise for still peddling misleading figures and trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the British people.”
The letter was also signed by former ministers John Redwood and Peter Lilley, along with leading Leave-supporting Labour MP Gisela Stuart.
Even the claim of a £200m-a-week payback from Brussels is little more than half the £350m-a-week which the Leave campaign claimed during the referendum campaign – emblazoning it, notoriously, on the side of a red bus.
Mr Gove’s letter formed part of a furious onslaught launched by pro-Brexit Conservative MPs and newspapers against the OBR’s forecasts.
Iain Duncan Smith, the former Cabinet minister accused the watchdog of putting out “another utter doom and gloom scenario”, on the back of past failures.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/brexit-dividend-money-michael-gove-claim-obr-dismissed...

Brexit: Theresa May's Government has 'no plan' and needs up to 30,000 extra civil servants to cope - leaked report

admin@ciutz.co.uk (Blog Admin) — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 12:58:21 GMT

'No common strategy has emerged,' warns memo to Cabinet Office British Prime Minister Theresa May Getty

Up to 30,000 new civil servants need to be hired to cope with the immense workload generated by Brexit ( http://www.independent.co.uk/topic/brexit ) , according to a report that found Theresa May ( http://www.independent.co.uk/topic/TheresaMay ) ’s Government has no coherent plan for Britain’s departure from the European Union.

A leaked document obtained by The Times ( http://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/news/cabinet-split-threatens-to-derail-may-s-brexit-talks-hxfwmv2td ) , titled “Brexit Update”, warns that a recruitment drive was progressing too slowly because of threats from the Cabinet Office and Treasury that departments will have to make existing budgets cover the cost.

“Despite extended debate among permanent secretaries, no common strategy has emerged,” says the memo, warning that more than 500 Brexit-related projects were “beyond the capacity and capability” of Government.

Every department has developed a ‘bottom-up’ plan of what the impact of Brexit could be - and its plan to cope with the ‘worst case’.

The report, dated 7 November, ( http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/brexit-theresa-may-leaked-document-reveals-still-no-plan-article-50-a7417931.html ) is understood to have been prepared for the Cabinet Office by a consultant under his own initiative, The Times reports.

What is the difference between hard and soft Brexit? Everything you need to know

Speculation remains over what kind of relationship the UK will develop with our partners after we leave the bloc

Why are we asking this now?

After repeatedly stating that “Brexit means Brexit”, Theresa May has confirmed she will trigger Britain’s exit from the European Union by the end of March 2017, beginning two years of formal negotiations.

But despite this timescale, speculation remains over what kind of relationship the UK will develop with our partners after we leave the bloc.

There are a myriad of possible post-EU arrangements being discussed and, although there are no definitive definitions, they can be loosely categorised as “hard” or “soft” Brexit options.

In her opening speech to the Conservative conference, the Prime Minister unveiled a tougher stance on EU withdrawal than she has previously taken, by seemingly backing a hard Brexit with controls on immigration at its core.

"Let me be clear," said Ms May ( http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/theresa-may-backlash-conference-speech-brexit-article-50-a7342046.html ) . "We are not leaving the European Union only to give up control of immigration again. And we are not leaving only to return to the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice," adding those wanting to do everything possible to preserve access to the single market were looking at Brexit the "wrong way".

So, what is Hard Brexit?

Favoured by ardent Brexiteers, a hard Brexit arrangement would likely see the UK give up full access to the single market and full access of the customs union along with the EU.

The arrangement would prioritise giving Britain full control over its borders, making new trade deals and applying laws within its own territory.

Initially, this would mean the UK would likely fall back on World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules for trade with its former EU partners.

What are the pros and cons?

The International Trade Secretary, Liam Fox ( http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/hard-brexit-eu-referendum-liam-fox-speech-a7337471.html ) , has said a hard approach would benefit the UK by making it a global trading nation. He said that "the UK is a full and founding member of the WTO", during a speech in Geneva last Tuesday,

German business leaders have expressed a similar view. Markus Kerber of the German BDI group told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "It's better to have a hard Brexit that works than to have a fudge in the middle that has to be renegotiated or doesn't politically work and you have uncertainty lingering on."

A hard Brexit, however, could see British goods and services subject to tariffs, adding 10 per cent, for example, to the cost of exported cars. While sectors such as agriculture could lose protections against cheap imports from abroad.

Leaving the customs union would mean a significant increase in bureaucratic checks on goods passing through ports and airports. And nations such as the US and Australia have said that reaching a new trade agreements with the EU would take priority.

And what is soft Brexit?

This approach would leave the UK's relationship with the EU as close as possible to the existing arrangements, and is preferred by many Remainers.

The UK would no longer be a member of the EU and would not have a seat on the European Council. It would lose its MEPs and its European Commissioner. But, it would keep unfettered access to the European single market.

Goods and services would be traded with the remaining EU states on a tariff-free basis and financial firms would keep their "passporting" rights to sell services and operate branches in the EU. Britain would remain within the EU's customs union, meaning that exports would not be subject to border checks.

National models for this sort of deal include Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, which are not members of the EU but have access to the single market by being part of the European Economic Area.

It is likely that a "soft Brexit" deal would insist on Britain observing the "four freedoms", meaning continued free access for European nationals to work and settle in the UK.

What are the pros and cons?

Pro-EU MPs argue that maintaining “proper connections” with the EU’s trading arrangements is a matter of national interest.

Senior Conservative MP Neil Carmichael ( http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/tory-group-vows-to-fight-economic-damage-from-harsh-brexit-a7341976.html ) has said a "harsh Brexit" must be avoided at all costs suggesting it could "damage our economy, damage our capacity as a nation to perform capably in the future and actually damage Europe.”

Kathleen Brooks, director of research at City Index, said a ‘hard Brexit’, is likely to come “at the cost” of a period of economic disruption, which is “likely to be negative for the pound".

Experts warn that London’s position as a financial hub will be dealt a severe blow if the UK left the single market. However, that access is contingent on countries agreeing to let European Union citizens live and work anywhere in the bloc.

Theresa May claimed people who talk about a “trade-off” between controlling immigration and trading with Europe are looking at things the “wrong way”, arguing that soft Brexit is "subverting" democracy and attempting to "kill" the process by "delaying it".

Planned Parenthood supporters donate money in Mike Pence's name

admin@ciutz.co.uk (Blog Admin) — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 12:58:19 GMT

Pence has previously said the law permitting abortion should be 'consigned to the ash heap of history'

Sexual health organisation reports surge in support after shock election result Getty Images

Donations to abortion provider Planned Parenthood ( https://www.plannedparenthood.org/ ) have surged as people make contributions in the name of the pro-life vice president-elect Mike Pence ( http://www.independent.co.uk/topic/mike-pence ) .

In the wake of Donald Trump's remarkable election result, the sexual health organisation reported a surge in support of almost 80,000 ( http://fortune.com/2016/11/12/trump-iud-planned-parenthood/ ) donations.

Donald Trump's ( http://www.independent.co.uk/topic/DonaldTrump ) running mate is known as an outspoken opponent of abortion rights and during the presidential campaign vowed he would consign US law permitting abortion, Roe v Wade, to the "ash heap of history, where it belongs”.

The evangelical Christian has also made numerous attempts to end government funding for sexual health clinics, and as governor of Indiana he passed restrictive laws on abortion in the state.

Users on Instagram shared a post ( https://www.instagram.com/p/BMrzPhHBdKM/ ) encouraging others to make the donation to Planned Parenthood, while on Twitter people posted images of a donation form filled out with Mr Pence’s name and office address ( https://twitter.com/ViolettesPage/status/797912605192949766 ) .

Musician Bethany Cosentino from shared an Instagram post ( https://www.instagram.com/p/BMrzPhHBdKM/ ) and said: “You should donate no matter what but omg this is genius.“

A Facebook page called “Donate $5 to Planned Parenthood in Honor of Mike Pence ( https://www.facebook.com/Donate-5-to-Planned-Parenthood-in-Honor-of-Mike-Pence-113006572107111/ ) ," was already in existence, which seeks to “flood” the Indiana governor’s office with thank you cards from the pro-choice organisation.

Mr Trump ran an anti-choice campaign and at one point suggested women who had abortions should be “punished”.

He later retracted the statement and said he thought abortions should be available in cases of rape, incest or where the health of the mother was in danger.

Such statements, alongside Mr Trump’s plans to scrap the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, have fuelled concerns that the Trump administration would work to limit access to birth control and contraception.

Access to abortion is already recorded to be falling in the US and American women are reported increasingly be turning to mail order pills ( http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/us-abortion-clinics-mail-order-rise-republicans-restrictions-funding-planned-parenthood-a7411461.html ) to terminate pregnancies.

But the Planned Parenthood Federation of America was defiant in the wake of Mr Trump's election victory.

Cecile Richards president of the group said in a statement: “We will never back down and we will never stop fighting to ensure that patients have access to the care they need, people who come from communities that need our continued support in this new reality – immigrants, people of color, the LGBTQ community, people of faith, and more."

She continued: “Health care should not be political.

There have been reports of women stocking up on contraceptive devices, such as IUDs, since the election result. ( http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/women-across-america-planning-to-get-iuds-before-donald-trump-possibly-removes-reproductive-rights-a7412406.html ) Multiple women on Twitter have declared that they will make sure they have long-term contraception in place before Mr Trump enters the White House.

Pro-life advocates fear Trump’s appointment of judges to the Supreme Court. In an interview with CBS ( http://www.cbsnews.com/news/60-minutes-donald-trump-family-melania-ivanka-lesley-stahl/ ) on Sunday he said he would appoint pro-life judges and said that if Roe v Wade were overturned, women would have to “go to another state”.

In addition to financial donations, Planned Parenthood has received an increase in the number of volunteers signing up and the hashtag StandWithPP ( https://twitter.com/hashtag/standwithpp ) has gained momentum.

“Since the election, we have seen an uptick in questions about access to health care, birth control, and the Affordable Care Act,” said Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosley, the chief medical officer of Planned Parenthood.

Barack Obama moves to protect funding for abortion clinics from attack by Donald Trump's Republicans

admin@ciutz.co.uk (Blog Admin) — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 12:58:18 GMT

“While we truly hope that birth control methods will be available, accessible and affordable to all women under the Trump administration, we understand people’s real concerns about losing access to birth control, which is basic health care for women.”

High profile figures such as Katy Perry have made large donations to the pro-choice organisation ( http://www.refinery29.com/2016/11/129634/katy-perry-planned-parenthood-donation ) , prompting others to make contributions.

Since Mr Trump's election, Barack Obama has moved to protect abortion funding ( http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-elections/barack-obama-permanently-protects-womens-right-to-abortion-planned-parenthood-donald-trump-a7411401.html ) by prosing a rule meaning funding for sexual health service could only be witheld if the services are not delivered "in an effective manner".

David Cameron 'charging £120,000 per hour for speeches on Brexit'

admin@ciutz.co.uk (Blog Admin) — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 12:58:16 GMT

The fee equates to £2,000 per minute

David Cameron pictured at Guildhall (Picture: Getty)

David Cameron is earning £120,000 per hour giving speeches about Brexit, it has been reported.

The former Prime Minister stood down from the role after losing the EU referendum in June and subsequently resigned as MP for Witney in September.

He is now giving paid talks about his experiences inside 10 Downing Street and recently charged £120,000 for one hour long talk, The Daily Mail reports. ( http://www.dailymail.co.uk/debate/article-3933022/Now-Cameron-rake-120-000-one-hour-talk-Former-PM-gives-speech-implications-Brexit-Wall-Street-financiers.html ) The sum equates to £2,000 per minute.

While Prime Minister, Mr Cameron earnt £143,462 per year, the standard salary for the role.

Mr Cameron reportedly gave the talk to Blackstone Properties in New York and discussed the fallout from his failed bid for a Remain vote in the Brexit referendum.

After leaving Number 10, many former Prime Ministers turn to the after-dinner talks circuit for income. Mr Cameron’s former coalition partner Nick Clegg has reportedly signed with an agency to charge ( http://www.cityam.com/221317/forget-politicians-salaries-its-afterwards-they-make-big-bucks ) a £35,000 booking fee for appearances.

Tony Blair is said to be worth £60 million, with his fortune arising from various sources including property, personal business and consultancy fees.

Fees for former premiers are said to be even higher in the US, where Bill Clinton once earnt more than $16.3 million in one year for 72 speeches.

UK JAMAICANS URGED TO REGULARISE STATUS

admin@ciutz.co.uk (Blog Admin) — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, Senator the Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. is urging United Kingdom (UK)-based Jamaicans to seek to regularise their status. This, he said, is important in protecting their interests and that of their families, and to avoid the pain arising from deportation. The State Minister was addressing a recent community meeting hosted by the Jamaican High Commission in London.

Senator Charles, who said he has assisted in immigration clinics overseas in the past, urged the UK-based Jamaicans to seek to increase their awareness of the issues and utilise mechanisms that are available to protect themselves. He encouraged them to participate in immigration seminars hosted by the High Commission as well as community groups.

Senator Charles expressed sympathy to families affected by the recent deportation of 42 Jamaicans from the UK. He urged persons to bring cases, concerns and proposals surrounding the issue of deportation to the attention of the Ministry, to ensure that the relevant support and advice can be given. “We have to look at how we can engage in a discussion with our sister governments. If upon examination of our agreement it is seen to lead to circumstances that are less than desirable, it could very well prompt a revisit.” he said.

Senator Charles also informed the community about the Government’s efforts to reduce the prison population as well as to strengthen rehabilitation for reintegration of offenders. He spoke about the Government’s long-term development plan as well as improvements in the education and health sectors.

He mentioned the recently launched Learning by Doing programme, aimed at improving the educational programmes at juvenile correctional facilities and supporting wards who struggle with learning difficulties and behavioural problems.

The meeting was also attended by Senator Kerensia Morrison. Senators Charles and Morrison were among a delegation of nine recently elected Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators, who were in the UK for a three-day visit to explore that country’s political landscape and the role of parliamentarians in a Westminster-style democracy.

according to the Jamaica high commission