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Filibuster_HK
Yemen war: Ceasefire takes effect in Hudaydah after skirmishes
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-46600430
Fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Houthi rebels in the city of Hudaydah has reportedly subsided, after a ceasefire came into effect overnight.
Skirmishes continued for several hours following the start of the UN-brokered truce at midnight (21:00 GMT), but locals now say it is relatively calm.
UN envoy Martin Griffiths said the initiative seemed to be working so far.
The battle for Hudaydah threatened the operation of its port, which is crucial to the delivery of aid supplies.
Half of the war-torn country's population - 14 million people - are on the brink of famine and an estimated 85,000 children may have died from malnutrition.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-46600430
Fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Houthi rebels in the city of Hudaydah has reportedly subsided, after a ceasefire came into effect overnight.
Skirmishes continued for several hours following the start of the UN-brokered truce at midnight (21:00 GMT), but locals now say it is relatively calm.
UN envoy Martin Griffiths said the initiative seemed to be working so far.
The battle for Hudaydah threatened the operation of its port, which is crucial to the delivery of aid supplies.
Half of the war-torn country's population - 14 million people - are on the brink of famine and an estimated 85,000 children may have died from malnutrition.
Filibuster_HK
Brexit: cabinet meets to discuss ramping up plans for no deal
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2018/dec/18/brexit-cabinet-meets-to-discuss-ramping-up-plans-for-no-deal
Cabinet ministers are expected to agree plans to significantly ramp up no-deal planning, allocating money from a £2bn contingency fund to departments such as the Home Office and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Ministers will be presented with three options at a meeting on Tuesday morning, to wind down preparations, keep them at a similar level or step up preparations, one cabinet source said, with the latter almost certain to be chosen.
Some cabinet ministers believe it is time to show more central command in no-deal planning. Previously, departments had been given some freedom to decide when and what they spent.
Several ministers are expected to push for no deal to become Whitehall’s “central planning assumption.”
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2018/dec/18/brexit-cabinet-meets-to-discuss-ramping-up-plans-for-no-deal
Cabinet ministers are expected to agree plans to significantly ramp up no-deal planning, allocating money from a £2bn contingency fund to departments such as the Home Office and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Ministers will be presented with three options at a meeting on Tuesday morning, to wind down preparations, keep them at a similar level or step up preparations, one cabinet source said, with the latter almost certain to be chosen.
Some cabinet ministers believe it is time to show more central command in no-deal planning. Previously, departments had been given some freedom to decide when and what they spent.
Several ministers are expected to push for no deal to become Whitehall’s “central planning assumption.”
Filibuster_HK
Former Trump adviser Flynn to be sentenced for lying to FBI
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-russia-flynn/former-trump-adviser-flynn-to-be-sentenced-for-lying-to-fbi-idUSKBN1OH0D7
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A judge will decide on Tuesday whether former national security adviser Michael Flynn should be sent to prison for lying to the FBI in a case stemming from an investigation into possible collusion between President Donald Trump’s election campaign team and Russia in the run-up to the 2016 vote.
Hours before U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan was to sentence Flynn in Washington at a hearing at 11 a.m. ET, Trump appeared to offer support for his former aide.
Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller, who is leading the investigation into Russian interference, has asked Sullivan not to imprison Flynn, a former general, because of his military service and his “substantial” cooperation with the probe.
Flynn pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to FBI agents about his conversations with Sergei Kislyak, the Russian ambassador in Washington at the time.
Flynn told investigators in January 2017 that he had not discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia with Kislyak, when in fact he had, according to his plea agreement.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-russia-flynn/former-trump-adviser-flynn-to-be-sentenced-for-lying-to-fbi-idUSKBN1OH0D7
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A judge will decide on Tuesday whether former national security adviser Michael Flynn should be sent to prison for lying to the FBI in a case stemming from an investigation into possible collusion between President Donald Trump’s election campaign team and Russia in the run-up to the 2016 vote.
Hours before U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan was to sentence Flynn in Washington at a hearing at 11 a.m. ET, Trump appeared to offer support for his former aide.
Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller, who is leading the investigation into Russian interference, has asked Sullivan not to imprison Flynn, a former general, because of his military service and his “substantial” cooperation with the probe.
Flynn pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to FBI agents about his conversations with Sergei Kislyak, the Russian ambassador in Washington at the time.
Flynn told investigators in January 2017 that he had not discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia with Kislyak, when in fact he had, according to his plea agreement.
Filibuster_HK
Donald Trump's troubled charity foundation to shut down
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-46611178
US President Donald Trump's troubled charity foundation has agreed to close down amid allegations that he and others illegally misused its funds.
The move was announced by the Attorney General of New York State, Barbara Underwood, who will supervise the distribution of its remaining monies.
Ms Underwood said the case against Mr Trump and his children Donald Jr, Ivanka and Eric would continue.
In a statement, she said there had been "a shocking pattern of illegality involving the Trump Foundation - including unlawful co-ordination with the Trump presidential campaign, repeated and wilful self-dealing, and much more".
She continued: "This amounted to the Trump Foundation functioning as little more than a chequebook to serve Mr Trump's business and political interests."
Under the terms of the deal to shut down the foundation, Ms Underwood said, it could only be dissolved under judicial supervision and could only distribute its assets "to reputable organisations approved by my office".
She added: "This is an important victory for the rule of law, making clear that there is one set of rules for everyone.
"We'll continue to move our suit forward to ensure that the Trump Foundation and its directors are held to account for their clear and repeated violations of state and federal law."
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-46611178
US President Donald Trump's troubled charity foundation has agreed to close down amid allegations that he and others illegally misused its funds.
The move was announced by the Attorney General of New York State, Barbara Underwood, who will supervise the distribution of its remaining monies.
Ms Underwood said the case against Mr Trump and his children Donald Jr, Ivanka and Eric would continue.
In a statement, she said there had been "a shocking pattern of illegality involving the Trump Foundation - including unlawful co-ordination with the Trump presidential campaign, repeated and wilful self-dealing, and much more".
She continued: "This amounted to the Trump Foundation functioning as little more than a chequebook to serve Mr Trump's business and political interests."
Under the terms of the deal to shut down the foundation, Ms Underwood said, it could only be dissolved under judicial supervision and could only distribute its assets "to reputable organisations approved by my office".
She added: "This is an important victory for the rule of law, making clear that there is one set of rules for everyone.
"We'll continue to move our suit forward to ensure that the Trump Foundation and its directors are held to account for their clear and repeated violations of state and federal law."
Filibuster_HK
Brexit: Cabinet 'ramps up' no-deal planning
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-46600850
The cabinet has decided to "ramp up" preparations for a no-deal Brexit amid uncertainty over the fate of Theresa May's proposed EU exit deal.
It allocated to ministries £2bn set aside in case the UK leaves on 29 March without MPs having accepted any deal.
Letters will be sent to 140,000 firms updating them on what they should do while 3,500 troops will be put on standby to help government departments.
Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable said it amounted to "psychological warfare".
With 101 days left until Brexit and many MPs still opposed to the government's withdrawal agreement, which MPs will vote on in mid-January, ministers met for a longer-than-normal two and a half hour meeting.
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-46600850
The cabinet has decided to "ramp up" preparations for a no-deal Brexit amid uncertainty over the fate of Theresa May's proposed EU exit deal.
It allocated to ministries £2bn set aside in case the UK leaves on 29 March without MPs having accepted any deal.
Letters will be sent to 140,000 firms updating them on what they should do while 3,500 troops will be put on standby to help government departments.
Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable said it amounted to "psychological warfare".
With 101 days left until Brexit and many MPs still opposed to the government's withdrawal agreement, which MPs will vote on in mid-January, ministers met for a longer-than-normal two and a half hour meeting.
Filibuster_HK
Opposition parties table vote of no-confidence in government
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/vote-of-noconfidence-brexit-uk-government-theresa-may-labour-snp-lib-dems-plaid-cymru-greens-a8689906.html
The Scottish National Party (SNP) and other opposition parties have tabled a vote of no-confidence in the government.
It comes after Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn demanded a Commons vote on the prime minister’s future after she confirmed a vote on her Brexit deal would not take place until after Christmas.
The SNP, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru and the Greens tabled a vote of no-confidence in the government following a meeting.
They said the decision follows constant pressure on Mr Corbyn to table a motion of no-confidence in the government under the Fixed Term Parliaments Act, which he has not done.
SNP Westminster Leader Ian Blackford MP met with Liberal Democrat Leader Vince Cable, Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts and Green MP Caroline Lucas on Tuesday and they took a joint decision to put forward a vote of no confidence in the names of the opposition leaders.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/vote-of-noconfidence-brexit-uk-government-theresa-may-labour-snp-lib-dems-plaid-cymru-greens-a8689906.html
The Scottish National Party (SNP) and other opposition parties have tabled a vote of no-confidence in the government.
It comes after Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn demanded a Commons vote on the prime minister’s future after she confirmed a vote on her Brexit deal would not take place until after Christmas.
The SNP, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru and the Greens tabled a vote of no-confidence in the government following a meeting.
They said the decision follows constant pressure on Mr Corbyn to table a motion of no-confidence in the government under the Fixed Term Parliaments Act, which he has not done.
SNP Westminster Leader Ian Blackford MP met with Liberal Democrat Leader Vince Cable, Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts and Green MP Caroline Lucas on Tuesday and they took a joint decision to put forward a vote of no confidence in the names of the opposition leaders.
Filibuster_HK
Belgium's PM Charles Michel submits resignation amid migration row
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-46611320
Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel has offered his resignation just days after one of his main coalition partners quit in a row over migration.
Mr Michel lost the backing of the nationalist New Flemish Alliance (N-VA) over his support for a UN migration deal signed in Marrakech last week.
His move follows angry demonstrations in Brussels against the UN pact.
Mr Michel has told King Philippe of his decision. The king has yet to announce whether he will accept the resignation.
Mr Michel, 42, took office in October 2014 after forming a right-wing coalition, becoming at 38 the country's youngest prime minister since 1841.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-46611320
Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel has offered his resignation just days after one of his main coalition partners quit in a row over migration.
Mr Michel lost the backing of the nationalist New Flemish Alliance (N-VA) over his support for a UN migration deal signed in Marrakech last week.
His move follows angry demonstrations in Brussels against the UN pact.
Mr Michel has told King Philippe of his decision. The king has yet to announce whether he will accept the resignation.
Mr Michel, 42, took office in October 2014 after forming a right-wing coalition, becoming at 38 the country's youngest prime minister since 1841.
Filibuster_HK
Hungary’s opposition plans more protests after ‘slave law’ passes
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/dec/18/hungary-opposition-plans-more-protests-after-slave-law-passes-viktor-orban
Hungary’s beleaguered political opposition has vowed to keep up the pressure on the country’s far-right prime minister, Viktor Orbán, after a week of protests in which thousands came on to the streets of Budapest, and four MPs were roughed up by security guards after attempting to get their demands across on state television.
The protests were triggered by a so-called “slave law”, passed amid chaotic scenes in the Hungarian parliament last Wednesday, which allows employers to force employees to work overtime, and lets them delay payment for up to three years. It was passed together with legislation that provides for greater government control over the court system, the latest move by Orbán’s Fidesz party to capture independent state institutions.
A number of different opposition parties are cooperating on a joint strategy to keep pressure on the government.
“We’re closely cooperating on a daily basis, and are planning roadblocks and further demonstrations if the president signs this into law,” said Tímea Szabó, of the opposition LMP party. She also said the opposition would announce civil disobedience action, though she refused to specify what it had in mind.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/dec/18/hungary-opposition-plans-more-protests-after-slave-law-passes-viktor-orban
Hungary’s beleaguered political opposition has vowed to keep up the pressure on the country’s far-right prime minister, Viktor Orbán, after a week of protests in which thousands came on to the streets of Budapest, and four MPs were roughed up by security guards after attempting to get their demands across on state television.
The protests were triggered by a so-called “slave law”, passed amid chaotic scenes in the Hungarian parliament last Wednesday, which allows employers to force employees to work overtime, and lets them delay payment for up to three years. It was passed together with legislation that provides for greater government control over the court system, the latest move by Orbán’s Fidesz party to capture independent state institutions.
A number of different opposition parties are cooperating on a joint strategy to keep pressure on the government.
“We’re closely cooperating on a daily basis, and are planning roadblocks and further demonstrations if the president signs this into law,” said Tímea Szabó, of the opposition LMP party. She also said the opposition would announce civil disobedience action, though she refused to specify what it had in mind.
Filibuster_HK
Lebanon set to get new national unity government in days: politicians
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-government/lebanon-set-to-get-new-national-unity-government-in-days-politicians-idUSKBN1OH0MY
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon is on track to form a new national unity government in the next few days, politicians said on Tuesday, raising hopes for an end to more than seven months of wrangling that has darkened the outlook for its struggling economy.
Efforts to form the new government, led by Prime Minister-designate Saad al-Hariri, have been obstructed by conflicting demands for cabinet seats that must be parceled out in line with a finely balanced, sectarian political system.
Heavily indebted and suffering from a stagnant economy, Lebanon is in dire need of an administration that can set about long-stalled reforms to put public debt on a sustainable footing.
“Matters are moving quickly and if things stay like this without obstacles - and I don’t expect obstacles - the government will soon see the light,” Major General Abbas Ibrahim, a top security official involved in efforts to end the impasse, said in a televised news conference.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lebanon-government/lebanon-set-to-get-new-national-unity-government-in-days-politicians-idUSKBN1OH0MY
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon is on track to form a new national unity government in the next few days, politicians said on Tuesday, raising hopes for an end to more than seven months of wrangling that has darkened the outlook for its struggling economy.
Efforts to form the new government, led by Prime Minister-designate Saad al-Hariri, have been obstructed by conflicting demands for cabinet seats that must be parceled out in line with a finely balanced, sectarian political system.
Heavily indebted and suffering from a stagnant economy, Lebanon is in dire need of an administration that can set about long-stalled reforms to put public debt on a sustainable footing.
“Matters are moving quickly and if things stay like this without obstacles - and I don’t expect obstacles - the government will soon see the light,” Major General Abbas Ibrahim, a top security official involved in efforts to end the impasse, said in a televised news conference.
Filibuster_HK
Michael Flynn sentencing delayed to allow more time for Mueller cooperation
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2018/dec/18/trump-michael-flynn-sentencing-russia-mueller
The sentencing of Donald Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn has been delayed during a live-wire court hearing filled with stunning reversals in which the judge accused him of having “sold your country out”.
Flynn had faced sentencing on Tuesday for the crime of lying to federal investigators about conversations he had with the Russian ambassador during the presidential transition period.
But Flynn made the request after US district judge Emmet Sullivan noted that it would be “rare” for him to be sentenced before his cooperation with prosecutors is complete. A member of special counsel Robert Mueller’s team told the judge it was possible that Flynn, who has sat for 19 interviews with Mueller’s team, might not be done cooperating.
The request to delay followed a stern rebuke of Flynn by Sullivan and a warning from the judge that Flynn could go to prison.
In a lacerating lecture before the delay was granted, Sullivan told the retired three-star general: “Arguably, you sold your country out.”
He said: “I’m not hiding my disgust, my disdain, for this criminal offense.”
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2018/dec/18/trump-michael-flynn-sentencing-russia-mueller
The sentencing of Donald Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn has been delayed during a live-wire court hearing filled with stunning reversals in which the judge accused him of having “sold your country out”.
Flynn had faced sentencing on Tuesday for the crime of lying to federal investigators about conversations he had with the Russian ambassador during the presidential transition period.
But Flynn made the request after US district judge Emmet Sullivan noted that it would be “rare” for him to be sentenced before his cooperation with prosecutors is complete. A member of special counsel Robert Mueller’s team told the judge it was possible that Flynn, who has sat for 19 interviews with Mueller’s team, might not be done cooperating.
The request to delay followed a stern rebuke of Flynn by Sullivan and a warning from the judge that Flynn could go to prison.
In a lacerating lecture before the delay was granted, Sullivan told the retired three-star general: “Arguably, you sold your country out.”
He said: “I’m not hiding my disgust, my disdain, for this criminal offense.”
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伏羽忍冬
This is treason then.
個官好明顯有火, 我諗有兩個原因:
1) 由於涉及未完成/未公開嘅調查, 但又Flynn關事, 所以公開嘅陳詞書有好多內容都係刪減左(份補充memo 6頁紙有近半都黑左
2) 個官好可能不滿Flynn日前仲賴FBI跣佢. 係控方陳詞出爐後, Flynn律師上星期再求情, 其中一個point係暗示Flynn畀FBI跣:
" The agents did not provide General Flynn with a warning of the penalties for making a false statement under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 before, during, or after the interview. ."
(...)
"General Flynn’s case also differs from that of George Papadopoulos, who pled guilty to making false statements regarding his communications with Russians and Russian intermediaries. Mr. Papadopoulos was specifically notified of the seriousness of the investigation, and “was told that he may have important information to provide.” He was warned that lying to investigators was a “federal offense” that could get him 'in trouble.'"
https://www.politico.com/story/2018/12/11/flynn-pleads-with-judge-for-no-jail-time-1059161
(內有Flynn律師求情書)
話FBI無同佢講對FBI 9up係會出事
個思路同Trump講嘅"perjury trap"如出一轍, 但過左兩日就畀Special Counsel Office屌到開花:
"A sitting national security adviser, former head of an intelligence agency, retired lieutenant general and 33-year veteran of the armed forces knows he should not lie to federal agents,"
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/14/us/politics/michael-flynn-fbi-donald-trump.html
(內有SCO counter memo)
指以Flynn嘅經歷同身分, 無理由唔知對聯邦探員講大話有幾嚴重(其實對執法人員講大話會出事是常識吧
而且Flynn可能搵左自己笨, 小弟之前提過, SCO份陳詞書, 有提過可以輕判Flynn到唔洗坐都ok:
"Given the defendant’s substantial assistance and other considerations set forth below, a sentence at the low end of the guideline range—including a sentence that does not impose a term of incarceration—is appropriate and warranted."
但係呢份memo, 雖然都係建議輕判, 無再強調紅左嗰句
"While the circumstances of the interview do not present mitigating considerations, assuming the defendant continues to accept responsibility for his actions, his cooperation and military service continue to justify a sentence at the low end of the guideline range."
再過兩日直頭公開埋訊問細節, 再駁斥多次, 見下面報導:
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/mueller-s-office-releases-notes-michael-flynn-s-fbi-interview-n949141
所以你見到衛報內文提到, 個官問得好清楚:
"Sullivan expressed concern that Flynn had not accepted his guilt after all, asking Flynn’s lawyer, Rob Kelner, whether he believed Flynn was entrapped by the FBI. 'No, your honor,' said Kelner.
Asked whether he was aware that lying to the FBI was illegal, Flynn replied: 'I was aware.'"
個官好明顯要留庭上record, 要佢自打嘴巴, 唔畀佢狡辯
如果HuffPost記者嘅文字紀錄準確, 個官仲話唔保證Flynn可以唔洗坐監
https://twitter.com/ryanjreilly/status/1075074559341158400
我嘅結論係控方同法官都非常唔妥佢對FBI講大話之餘, 仲暗示FBI跣佢先講大話, Flynn三分顏色上大紅玩出火
:^(
個官好明顯有火, 我諗有兩個原因:
1) 由於涉及未完成/未公開嘅調查, 但又Flynn關事, 所以公開嘅陳詞書有好多內容都係刪減左(份補充memo 6頁紙有近半都黑左
:^(
2) 個官好可能不滿Flynn日前仲賴FBI跣佢. 係控方陳詞出爐後, Flynn律師上星期再求情, 其中一個point係暗示Flynn畀FBI跣:
" The agents did not provide General Flynn with a warning of the penalties for making a false statement under 18 U.S.C. § 1001 before, during, or after the interview. ."
(...)
"General Flynn’s case also differs from that of George Papadopoulos, who pled guilty to making false statements regarding his communications with Russians and Russian intermediaries. Mr. Papadopoulos was specifically notified of the seriousness of the investigation, and “was told that he may have important information to provide.” He was warned that lying to investigators was a “federal offense” that could get him 'in trouble.'"
https://www.politico.com/story/2018/12/11/flynn-pleads-with-judge-for-no-jail-time-1059161
(內有Flynn律師求情書)
話FBI無同佢講對FBI 9up係會出事
:^(
個思路同Trump講嘅"perjury trap"如出一轍, 但過左兩日就畀Special Counsel Office屌到開花:
"A sitting national security adviser, former head of an intelligence agency, retired lieutenant general and 33-year veteran of the armed forces knows he should not lie to federal agents,"
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/14/us/politics/michael-flynn-fbi-donald-trump.html
(內有SCO counter memo)
指以Flynn嘅經歷同身分, 無理由唔知對聯邦探員講大話有幾嚴重(其實對執法人員講大話會出事是常識吧
:^(
而且Flynn可能搵左自己笨, 小弟之前提過, SCO份陳詞書, 有提過可以輕判Flynn到唔洗坐都ok:
"Given the defendant’s substantial assistance and other considerations set forth below, a sentence at the low end of the guideline range—including a sentence that does not impose a term of incarceration—is appropriate and warranted."
但係呢份memo, 雖然都係建議輕判, 無再強調紅左嗰句
:^(
"While the circumstances of the interview do not present mitigating considerations, assuming the defendant continues to accept responsibility for his actions, his cooperation and military service continue to justify a sentence at the low end of the guideline range."
再過兩日直頭公開埋訊問細節, 再駁斥多次, 見下面報導:
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/mueller-s-office-releases-notes-michael-flynn-s-fbi-interview-n949141
所以你見到衛報內文提到, 個官問得好清楚:
"Sullivan expressed concern that Flynn had not accepted his guilt after all, asking Flynn’s lawyer, Rob Kelner, whether he believed Flynn was entrapped by the FBI. 'No, your honor,' said Kelner.
Asked whether he was aware that lying to the FBI was illegal, Flynn replied: 'I was aware.'"
個官好明顯要留庭上record, 要佢自打嘴巴, 唔畀佢狡辯
:^(
如果HuffPost記者嘅文字紀錄準確, 個官仲話唔保證Flynn可以唔洗坐監
:^(
https://twitter.com/ryanjreilly/status/1075074559341158400
我嘅結論係控方同法官都非常唔妥佢對FBI講大話之餘, 仲暗示FBI跣佢先講大話, Flynn三分顏色上大紅玩出火
:^(
Filibuster_HK
Brexit: EU reveals no-deal plans
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-46617152
The European Commission says it has started to implement its preparations for a no-deal Brexit - in case the UK crashes out of the EU without a plan.
It has announced temporary measures to try to reduce the impact, but says it cannot counter all the problems it expects.
As PM Theresa May's proposed exit plan flounders in Parliament, both sides are preparing for the worst-case situation.
The UK has allocated £2bn ($2.5bn) in funding to government departments.
The European Commission's measures are designed to limit disruption in certain key areas, such as finance and transport, if Brexit goes ahead in March without a deal.
"These measures will not - and cannot - mitigate the overall impact of a 'no-deal' scenario," it said in a statement.
"This is an exercise in damage limitation," added commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis in a news conference, saying a contingency plan was necessary "given the continued uncertainty in the UK".
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-46617152
The European Commission says it has started to implement its preparations for a no-deal Brexit - in case the UK crashes out of the EU without a plan.
It has announced temporary measures to try to reduce the impact, but says it cannot counter all the problems it expects.
As PM Theresa May's proposed exit plan flounders in Parliament, both sides are preparing for the worst-case situation.
The UK has allocated £2bn ($2.5bn) in funding to government departments.
The European Commission's measures are designed to limit disruption in certain key areas, such as finance and transport, if Brexit goes ahead in March without a deal.
"These measures will not - and cannot - mitigate the overall impact of a 'no-deal' scenario," it said in a statement.
"This is an exercise in damage limitation," added commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis in a news conference, saying a contingency plan was necessary "given the continued uncertainty in the UK".
Filibuster_HK
Commission reaches budget deal with Italy
https://www.politico.eu/article/commission-reaches-budget-deal-with-italy/
Italy escaped the European Commission's wrath Wednesday after giving ground in its controversial spending plans for 2019 that include a flat tax and a basic income for the poor.
Rome’s initiatives would have pushed its budget deficit next year to 2.4 percent of economic output, well above the previous Italian government’s promises of keep the figure closer to 0.8 percent of gross domestic product.
But a clash looks to be averted — for now — after Rome agreed to lower its deficit to 2.04 percent.
https://www.politico.eu/article/commission-reaches-budget-deal-with-italy/
Italy escaped the European Commission's wrath Wednesday after giving ground in its controversial spending plans for 2019 that include a flat tax and a basic income for the poor.
Rome’s initiatives would have pushed its budget deficit next year to 2.4 percent of economic output, well above the previous Italian government’s promises of keep the figure closer to 0.8 percent of gross domestic product.
But a clash looks to be averted — for now — after Rome agreed to lower its deficit to 2.04 percent.
Filibuster_HK
Congress to push stop-gap funding bill with no border wall money
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-congress-budget/congress-to-push-stop-gap-funding-bill-with-no-border-wall-money-idUSKBN1OI1ST
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Congress began advancing legislation on Wednesday to fund several federal agencies through Feb. 8 to avert a partial government shutdown, but without including money for a U.S.-Mexico border wall that President Donald Trump demanded.
“We’ll soon take up a simple measure that will continue government funding into February so that we can continue this vital (border security) debate after the new Congress has convened” in January, said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
A Senate Democratic aide said the appropriations bill, which would keep the Department of Homeland Security and several other agencies operating on a temporary basis, was expected to pass the Senate either on Wednesday or Thursday.
The House of Representatives would then have to pass the bill and hope that Trump signs it into law, avoiding a shutdown because existing funding for the agencies will expire at midnight on Friday.
By postponing decisions on spending for the agencies that also includes the departments of Justice, Commerce, Interior and Agriculture, Democrats will be in a somewhat stronger bargaining position next year when they take majority control of the House.
Democrats and many Republicans have challenged the wisdom of giving Trump $5 billion this year to build a wall - which carries an estimated $24 billion price tag - that they argue would be less effective in securing the border than building on a mix of tools already in place.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-congress-budget/congress-to-push-stop-gap-funding-bill-with-no-border-wall-money-idUSKBN1OI1ST
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Congress began advancing legislation on Wednesday to fund several federal agencies through Feb. 8 to avert a partial government shutdown, but without including money for a U.S.-Mexico border wall that President Donald Trump demanded.
“We’ll soon take up a simple measure that will continue government funding into February so that we can continue this vital (border security) debate after the new Congress has convened” in January, said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
A Senate Democratic aide said the appropriations bill, which would keep the Department of Homeland Security and several other agencies operating on a temporary basis, was expected to pass the Senate either on Wednesday or Thursday.
The House of Representatives would then have to pass the bill and hope that Trump signs it into law, avoiding a shutdown because existing funding for the agencies will expire at midnight on Friday.
By postponing decisions on spending for the agencies that also includes the departments of Justice, Commerce, Interior and Agriculture, Democrats will be in a somewhat stronger bargaining position next year when they take majority control of the House.
Democrats and many Republicans have challenged the wisdom of giving Trump $5 billion this year to build a wall - which carries an estimated $24 billion price tag - that they argue would be less effective in securing the border than building on a mix of tools already in place.
Filibuster_HK
Syria conflict: US officials withdraw troops after IS 'defeat'
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-46623617
The Trump administration says US troops are being withdrawn from Syria, after the president said the Islamic State (IS) group had been "defeated".
The Pentagon said it was transitioning to the "next phase of the campaign" but did not give details.
Some 2,000 troops have helped rid much of north-eastern Syria of IS, but pockets of fighters remain.
It had been thought defence officials wanted to maintain a US presence to ensure IS did not rebuild.
There are also fears a US withdrawal will cede influence in Syria and the wider region to Russia and Iran.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-46623617
The Trump administration says US troops are being withdrawn from Syria, after the president said the Islamic State (IS) group had been "defeated".
The Pentagon said it was transitioning to the "next phase of the campaign" but did not give details.
Some 2,000 troops have helped rid much of north-eastern Syria of IS, but pockets of fighters remain.
It had been thought defence officials wanted to maintain a US presence to ensure IS did not rebuild.
There are also fears a US withdrawal will cede influence in Syria and the wider region to Russia and Iran.
Filibuster_HK
Theresa May will be ‘forced to back down’ over migrant curbs
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2018/dec/19/theresa-may-will-be-forced-to-back-down-over-migrant-curbs
Rebellious ministers believe Theresa May will be forced to allow workers earning as little as £21,000 to enter the UK after Brexit in the face of intense lobbying from businesses demanding the right to employ low-skilled workers from abroad.
The prime minister had wanted to limit the vast majority of immigration to people with jobs paid £30,000 and over, but had already had to concede there would be a further year of consultation on the threshold after a cabinet revolt.
And within hours of the publication of the government’s long-awaited immigration white paper on Wednesday, uproar from business groups over the proposals deepened the cracks in what had been intended as one of the flagship policies for May’s vision of post-Brexit Britain.
Philip Hammond, the chancellor, and Greg Clark, business secretary, who led the revolt, now expect employers’ groups to lobby hard to slash the prime minister’s preferred £30,000 threshold.
The white paper sets out how free movement from the EU will end after 2021. Free movement is widely regarded as one of the key reasons for the Brexit vote.
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2018/dec/19/theresa-may-will-be-forced-to-back-down-over-migrant-curbs
Rebellious ministers believe Theresa May will be forced to allow workers earning as little as £21,000 to enter the UK after Brexit in the face of intense lobbying from businesses demanding the right to employ low-skilled workers from abroad.
The prime minister had wanted to limit the vast majority of immigration to people with jobs paid £30,000 and over, but had already had to concede there would be a further year of consultation on the threshold after a cabinet revolt.
And within hours of the publication of the government’s long-awaited immigration white paper on Wednesday, uproar from business groups over the proposals deepened the cracks in what had been intended as one of the flagship policies for May’s vision of post-Brexit Britain.
Philip Hammond, the chancellor, and Greg Clark, business secretary, who led the revolt, now expect employers’ groups to lobby hard to slash the prime minister’s preferred £30,000 threshold.
The white paper sets out how free movement from the EU will end after 2021. Free movement is widely regarded as one of the key reasons for the Brexit vote.
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Filibuster_HK
Aluminum plunges, Rusal shares soar as U.S. to lift sanctions
https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-deripaska/u-s-to-withdraw-sanctions-from-aluminum-giant-rusal-idUKKCN1OI2AS
(Reuters) - The U.S. Treasury said it will lift sanctions on the core empire of Russian businessman Oleg Deripaska, including aluminum giant Rusal and its parent En+, watering down the toughest penalties imposed since Moscow’s 2014 annexation of Crimea.
In April, the U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on Deripaska, Rusal, En+ and other companies in which he owns stakes, citing “malign activities” by Russia, prompting turmoil in global aluminum markets.
After lobbying by European governments, Washington postponed enforcement of the sanctions and started talks with Deripaska’s team on removing Rusal and En+ from the blacklist if he ceded control of Rusal.
Deripaska will remain under sanctions, the Treasury said. However, the three Deripaska companies - Rusal, En+ and power firm EuroSibEnergo - have agreed to restructure to reduce Deripaska’s stakes.
Rusal shares soared as much as 26.8 percent on Thursday to their highest since April, the month when the sanctions were announced.
U.S. imposes fresh Russia sanctions for election meddling
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-treasury/u-s-imposes-fresh-russia-sanctions-for-election-meddling-idUSKCN1OI27F
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States imposed fresh Russia-related sanctions on Wednesday, expanding a blacklist of individuals allegedly involved in a Kremlin-backed campaign to meddle with the 2016 U.S. presidential election, among other misdeeds.
The U.S. Treasury Department twinned that development with an announcement that it would lift sanctions on major aluminum company Rusal and two other firms tied to Oleg Deripaska after a deal was struck to sever the Russian oligarch’s control over them.
Deripaska himself will remain under sanctions, Treasury said.
https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-deripaska/u-s-to-withdraw-sanctions-from-aluminum-giant-rusal-idUKKCN1OI2AS
(Reuters) - The U.S. Treasury said it will lift sanctions on the core empire of Russian businessman Oleg Deripaska, including aluminum giant Rusal and its parent En+, watering down the toughest penalties imposed since Moscow’s 2014 annexation of Crimea.
In April, the U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on Deripaska, Rusal, En+ and other companies in which he owns stakes, citing “malign activities” by Russia, prompting turmoil in global aluminum markets.
After lobbying by European governments, Washington postponed enforcement of the sanctions and started talks with Deripaska’s team on removing Rusal and En+ from the blacklist if he ceded control of Rusal.
Deripaska will remain under sanctions, the Treasury said. However, the three Deripaska companies - Rusal, En+ and power firm EuroSibEnergo - have agreed to restructure to reduce Deripaska’s stakes.
Rusal shares soared as much as 26.8 percent on Thursday to their highest since April, the month when the sanctions were announced.
U.S. imposes fresh Russia sanctions for election meddling
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-treasury/u-s-imposes-fresh-russia-sanctions-for-election-meddling-idUSKCN1OI27F
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States imposed fresh Russia-related sanctions on Wednesday, expanding a blacklist of individuals allegedly involved in a Kremlin-backed campaign to meddle with the 2016 U.S. presidential election, among other misdeeds.
The U.S. Treasury Department twinned that development with an announcement that it would lift sanctions on major aluminum company Rusal and two other firms tied to Oleg Deripaska after a deal was struck to sever the Russian oligarch’s control over them.
Deripaska himself will remain under sanctions, Treasury said.
Filibuster_HK
Turkey says Syrian Kurdish militants will be buried in ditches: Anadolu
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-turkey/turkey-says-syrian-kurdish-militants-will-be-buried-in-ditches-anadolu-idUSKCN1OJ0N8
ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey said Kurdish militants east of the Euphrates in Syria “will be buried in their ditches when the time comes”, after President Donald Trump began what will be a total withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria.
Trump’s decision to pull out completely was confirmed by U.S. officials and is expected in the coming months. The move stunned U.S. lawmakers and allies and upends American policy in the Middle East. For NATO ally Turkey, however, the news is likely to be welcome.
The two countries have long had their relations strained by differences over Syria, where the United States has backed the Syrian Kurdish YPG in the fight against Islamic State. Turkey considers the YPG a terrorist group and an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-turkey/turkey-says-syrian-kurdish-militants-will-be-buried-in-ditches-anadolu-idUSKCN1OJ0N8
ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey said Kurdish militants east of the Euphrates in Syria “will be buried in their ditches when the time comes”, after President Donald Trump began what will be a total withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria.
Trump’s decision to pull out completely was confirmed by U.S. officials and is expected in the coming months. The move stunned U.S. lawmakers and allies and upends American policy in the Middle East. For NATO ally Turkey, however, the news is likely to be welcome.
The two countries have long had their relations strained by differences over Syria, where the United States has backed the Syrian Kurdish YPG in the fight against Islamic State. Turkey considers the YPG a terrorist group and an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).
Filibuster_HK
Russia's Putin agrees with Trump that Islamic State defeated in Syria
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-russia-putin-syria/russias-putin-agrees-with-trump-that-islamic-state-defeated-in-syria-idUSKCN1OJ1BG
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that he largely agreed with U.S. President Donald Trump that Islamic State had been defeated, but added that he was skeptical whether the United States would withdraw fully from Syria.
Trump said on Wednesday that the United States had defeated the radical Islamist militant group in Syria, and that this fulfilled the only goal for keeping U.S. troops in the country.
France says Islamic State not defeated, troops to remain in Syria
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-france/france-says-islamic-state-not-defeated-troops-to-remain-in-syria-idUSKCN1OJ0U6
PARIS (Reuters) - France will keep troops in northern Syria for now because Islamic State militants have not been wiped out - contrary to the view of Washington - and continue to pose a threat to French interests, officials said.
France is a leading member of the U.S.-led coalition fighting militants in Syria and Iraq and has around 1,000 troops including special forces based in the north of the country, deployed alongside local Kurdish and Arab forces.
French diplomats told Reuters on Wednesday President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw all 2,000 U.S. troops from the region had taken Paris by surprise. U.S. officials justified the decision by saying Islamic State had been entirely defeated.
Defence Minister Florence Parly acknowledged on Twitter that the militant group had been weakened and lost some 90 percent of its territory, but said the battle was not over.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-russia-putin-syria/russias-putin-agrees-with-trump-that-islamic-state-defeated-in-syria-idUSKCN1OJ1BG
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that he largely agreed with U.S. President Donald Trump that Islamic State had been defeated, but added that he was skeptical whether the United States would withdraw fully from Syria.
Trump said on Wednesday that the United States had defeated the radical Islamist militant group in Syria, and that this fulfilled the only goal for keeping U.S. troops in the country.
France says Islamic State not defeated, troops to remain in Syria
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-france/france-says-islamic-state-not-defeated-troops-to-remain-in-syria-idUSKCN1OJ0U6
PARIS (Reuters) - France will keep troops in northern Syria for now because Islamic State militants have not been wiped out - contrary to the view of Washington - and continue to pose a threat to French interests, officials said.
France is a leading member of the U.S.-led coalition fighting militants in Syria and Iraq and has around 1,000 troops including special forces based in the north of the country, deployed alongside local Kurdish and Arab forces.
French diplomats told Reuters on Wednesday President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw all 2,000 U.S. troops from the region had taken Paris by surprise. U.S. officials justified the decision by saying Islamic State had been entirely defeated.
Defence Minister Florence Parly acknowledged on Twitter that the militant group had been weakened and lost some 90 percent of its territory, but said the battle was not over.
Filibuster_HK
EU takes China to WTO again over technology transfers
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-eu-china-wto/eu-takes-china-to-wto-again-over-technology-transfers-idUSKCN1OJ1AP
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union launched a second challenge against China at the World Trade Organization on Thursday over laws it says force the transfer of technology in areas including electric vehicles and biotechnology.
The European Commission, which oversees trade policy in the 28-member European Union, said in a statement that it was significantly broadening and deepening the scope of its WTO action against China.
The EU’s new challenge focuses on Chinese laws that regulate the approval of investments for electric vehicles and biotechnology and the approval of joint ventures across sectors.
The Commission said that the Chinese laws imposed requirements on foreign companies operating in China, contravening a commitment not to do so made when Beijing joined the WTO.
“The so-called performance requirements force or induce European companies to transfer technology to their joint ventures with Chinese partners in exchange for the necessary administrative approvals by the Chinese authorities,” the Commission said.
“Foreign companies are also required to carry out research and development activities in China,” it continued.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-eu-china-wto/eu-takes-china-to-wto-again-over-technology-transfers-idUSKCN1OJ1AP
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union launched a second challenge against China at the World Trade Organization on Thursday over laws it says force the transfer of technology in areas including electric vehicles and biotechnology.
The European Commission, which oversees trade policy in the 28-member European Union, said in a statement that it was significantly broadening and deepening the scope of its WTO action against China.
The EU’s new challenge focuses on Chinese laws that regulate the approval of investments for electric vehicles and biotechnology and the approval of joint ventures across sectors.
The Commission said that the Chinese laws imposed requirements on foreign companies operating in China, contravening a commitment not to do so made when Beijing joined the WTO.
“The so-called performance requirements force or induce European companies to transfer technology to their joint ventures with Chinese partners in exchange for the necessary administrative approvals by the Chinese authorities,” the Commission said.
“Foreign companies are also required to carry out research and development activities in China,” it continued.
Hungary's public broadcaster MTVA has become the latest target of demonstrators angry at the government's controversial new labour law.
Protesters took to the streets for the fifth consecutive day to object to what they call "slave laws".
Earlier two independent MPs were thrown out of MTVA's headquarters after they tried to broadcast a petition against the measures.
Since they were forcibly ejected other opposition MPs have taken their places.
New rules mean companies can demand up to 400 hours of overtime a year and delay payment for it for three years, though that is disputed by an MEP from the governing party.
At least 10,000 people rallied in Budapest on Sunday - a rare large-scale anti-government demonstration in Hungary, where Prime Minister Viktor Orban's policies enjoy widespread support, despite repeated condemnation from other EU nations.
The government says the labour reform will benefit workers as well as companies who need to fill a labour shortage.