PRIME minister Theresa May has been cautioned against “whitewashing” any inquiries on former foreign secretary Boris Johnson’s remarks about burqas, as a leading charity has warned hate crime aimed at Muslim women had spiked since his divisive comments.
In a letter on Monday (13), the Muslim Council of Britain said no one should be allowed
to “victimise minorities with impunity”.
Conservative MP Johnson compared women in burqas and niqabs to “bank robbers” and “letter boxes” in a newspaper column earlier this month, sparking a debate among fellow politicians and community leaders.
May criticised Johnson’s comments last Wednesday (8), stating his remarks had caused offence and it was “wrong to have used [the] language”.
Calls for an urgent inquiry by the Conservative party have been made by leading politicians such as Tory peer and former party chair Baroness Warsi, who has previously accused the governing party of harbouring Islamophobic views. The Conservatives deny the allegation.
Lord Sheikh, the founder of the Conservative Muslim Forum, said last week that Johnson should have the whip withdrawn.
Labour MP Rushanara Ali said Johnson’s comments were an “indefensible and dangerous attempt” to stir up hatred towards Muslims at a time when Islamophobia has spiked in the UK.
“Johnson is pandering to the far-right instead of standing up for British values such as the protection of minority rights, including freedom of religious expression,” Ali, who represents Bethnal Green and Bow, said.
Fellow Labour MP Rupa Huq, who represents Ealing Central and Acton in London, shared
Ali’s sentiments, calling Johnson’s comments “deliberately calculated and divisive”.
Meanwhile, Tell Mama, a national project which records and measures anti-Muslim incidents
across the UK, has reported a spike in incidents of abuse aimed at Muslim women since the comments were made public.
Fiyaz Mughal OBE, the founder of Tell Mama, confirmed a “direct link” between the politician’s comments and an impact of Muslim women.
“Mr Johnson thinks his flippant comments were funny, and while his comments were about
the burqa, perpetrators see any visibly identifiable woman and off they go with their bigotry and prejudice,” Mughal said.
The Muslim Council of Britain also confirmed they had received hate mail which referred to the same derogatory language as Johnson used in his column.
Mohammad Yasin, a Labour politician representing Bedford, told Eastern Eye it was “unacceptable” women have been subjected to abuse due to Johnson’s comments.
“His unnecessarily offensive and calculated comments were not about opening a fair and honest debate, but an insult to women of a minority within a minority group,” Yasin said.
“We have now had over a week of public comment and opinion and political argument within government over whether it is acceptable to sneer at Muslim women in religious dress.
“In my view, this is precisely the divisive conversation Mr Johnson knew his comments
would provoke in the country.”
Labour MP Afzal Khan told Eastern Eye he had called for an inquiry into Islamophobia in the
Tory party for some time now, but had always “been rebuffed”.
The representative for Manchester Gorton also noted the Muslim Council of Britain had presented the party with “irrefutable” evidence of conduct which fell foul of the party’s code of conduct.
“Until the party launches an independent inquiry examining the problem, it will not convince Muslims or other minorities that its house is in order,” he said.
Both politicians shared similar sentiments on the use the burka, stating women should be able to choose what they wear.
“It is for women for all faiths and none to decide how they wish to dress,” Yasin said.
However, there has been some support for Johnson. Comic Rowan Atkinson wrote a public
letter to The Times last week advising him not to apologise and former Tory chief whip Andrew Mitchell said the MP had used “colourful language”, but Johnson should not refute his comments.
In an opinion piece in The Telegraph last Saturday (11), Dr Qanta Ahmed wrote she was thankful for Johnson’s comments. She added much of the hysteria was focused on his analogies rather than his points.
“The nation fails to recognise that Mr Johnson generously – but, in my view as an observant Muslim woman, mistakenly – welcomed British Muslim women as free to choose to wear the veil,” Dr Ahmed said. “…Like many other Muslim women, I am thankful Boris said what he did. To criticise the niqab and to criticise Muslim women are two very different things.”
However, Muslim campaigner Shelina Janmohamed said if Johnson was genuine in addressing the issue, he would have spoken in a more “respectful way”.
“I think people should not be distracted by the fact that there are strong opinions about the
burqa and realise this is one more example of an environment where it is okay to talk about minorities in a way that generates hatred, bigotry and violence,” Janmohamed told Eastern Eye.
“As a nation, we need to have a moment of soul-searching about why it is okay to whip up hate against a minority.”
Janmohamed admitted she had suffered from “vast” amounts of abuse on social media since the comments had come to light.
In 2016-17, information from the police across England and Wales showed there were approximately 80,400 reported hate crimes. This was a 29 per cent an increase from the year before. An estimated 78 per cent of these crimes are racially motivated.
Shaista Gohir OBE, chair of the Muslim Women’s Network UK (MWNUK), told Eastern Eye Johnson deliberately used language similar to racists. She thinks it is to target “intolerant voters”.
“Rather than challenge their attitudes, he is pandering to them because he wants to be the next PM,” she said. “Someone like him is not for fit nor responsible enough to lead the Tory party or be leader on this country.”
Qari Muhammad Asim MBE, a senior Imam, told Eastern Eye the column has “[fanned] the flames of Islamophobia.”
Asked for his view on burkas and hijabs, Asim – who is worship leader at Makkah Masjid mosque in Leeds – stressed it was not a compulsory garment.
Asim further highlighted that not only did the “derogatory” statements play into the hands of the far-right, but also to extremists inspired by militant ideology.
“They try to radicalise young people by saying there is no place for you in British society, then a senior politician is ridiculing members of the Muslim community,” he said. “It is a huge concern.”
As Eastern Eye went to print, Johnson had yet to comment on his remarks.
Police officers stand guard between an anti fascist group and Tommy Robinson supporters during an anti-immigration rally organised by British anti-immigration activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, in London, Britain, September 13, 2025.
THE British government has defended its new migrant returns deal with France after a High Court ruling temporarily blocked the deportation of an Eritrean asylum seeker, marking an early legal setback to the scheme.
The 25-year-old man, who arrived in Britain on a small boat from France on August 12, was due to be placed on an Air France flight from Heathrow to Paris on Wednesday (17) morning. But on Tuesday (16), Judge Clive Sheldon granted an interim injunction, saying there was a “serious issue to be tried” over his claim to be a victim of trafficking.
The ruling gives the asylum seeker 14 days to provide more evidence before a full legal hearing.
Government minister Liz Kendall acknowledged the court’s decision was a setback but insisted it would not derail the wider “one-in, one-out” pilot deal with France.
“This is one person, it is not going to undermine the fundamental basis of this deal,” she told Times Radio. “This decision is disappointing but it won’t prevent the rest of that deal going ahead.”
Under the agreement, signed in July and launched in August, Britain can return migrants who arrive by small boats and are judged ineligible for asylum, including those who passed through a safe country. In exchange, the UK will accept an equal number of migrants from France who apply for visas through an online platform. The pilot scheme will run until June 2026.
So far this year more than 31,000 people have crossed the Channel in small boats, adding to political pressure on prime minister Keir Starmer. Immigration has become a dominant issue in Britain, often eclipsing concerns over the economy, as the government struggles to deter irregular crossings.
The returns were expected to begin this week, but several deportation attempts have already been delayed after migrants lodged last-minute legal challenges. More than 90 people detained for removal have pending cases, according to charities. France is due to begin its first repatriations under the deal on Saturday (20), its home ministry confirmed.
Lawyers for the Eritrean man argued that sending him back to France would expose him to “a real risk of destitution” and that his trafficking claim should be resolved before any removal. Sonali Naik, representing the asylum seeker, said the government had acted prematurely.
The Home Office, however, argued in court that the UK-France scheme was essential to “disincentivise illegal and dangerous crossings and favour legal migration routes.” Kate Grange, counsel for the government, warned that delays in one case could encourage others to file similar claims, undermining the agreement’s deterrent effect.
Charities have also raised concerns that the deal will face “all sorts of challenges”. Pierre Makhlouf, from Bail for Immigration Detainees, said: “If the government presumed that the removals would actually take place this week, then they might be premature. Those who are here will fight very hard.”
The Starmer government regards the deal as a central part of its efforts to control migration and to blunt the rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party, which has made gains in opinion polls with its anti-immigration message.
Despite the court ruling, ministers stressed the government remained committed to the returns policy. “Playing in the subcontinent always presents a challenge and we have selected a team to be competitive in these conditions,” said Kendall. “We will continue to pursue this agreement because it is in the interests of both countries and of the migrants themselves.”
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AN ASIAN senior heart surgeon, who abused his position to sexually assault female members of staff, has been jailed for six years.
Dr Amal Bose, from Lancaster, was convicted of 12 counts of sexual assault against five colleagues at Blackpool Victoria Hospital between 2017 and 2022. He was cleared of two other charges.
According to Lancashire Police, the jury heard during the trial earlier this year that Bose was “the root cause of a toxic and sexualised culture” at the hospital. His behaviour included inappropriately touching women and making sexualised comments.
Despite claiming his actions were “only flirting” and “banter”, Bose was found guilty by a jury in June. He appeared at Preston Crown Court on Monday (15), where he was sentenced to six years in prison.
In personal statements read to the court, the victims said Bose’s behaviour had left them feeling unsafe at work and less able to trust male colleagues. Some changed their working patterns to avoid him, called in sick, or were even forced to leave the profession.
One victim said Bose had not only violated her body but also the trust and respect that should exist in any professional workplace. Others described experiencing anxiety, panic attacks and a loss of confidence.
Detective chief inspector (temporary) Kirsty Wyatt said: “Everyone should feel able to go to work and feel safe, confident and secure. Bose has undermined that by abusing his position of power to sexually assault female members of staff, and in doing so he has caused enormous damage.”
She added: “I would like to thank the victims for having the courage to come forward and speak about what happened to them – that cannot have been easy. While he may have considered his behaviour as merely flirting, his actions have clearly had a deep and lasting impact on his victims, and in some cases have caused them to abandon the profession they loved.”
Wyatt also praised the jury and the Crown Prosecution Service for their handling of the case. “I hope the guilty verdicts give others who may have suffered similar ordeals the confidence to report it to us, safe in the knowledge we will investigate professionally and sensitively,” she said.
(PTI)
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Donald Trump and Narendra Modi shake hands as they attend a joint press conference at the White House on February 13, 2025.
Both leaders reaffirm commitment to India-US partnership
Trade talks resume in New Delhi amid tariff tensions
India defends purchase of discounted Russian oil
US PRESIDENT Donald Trump on Tuesday called Indian prime minister Narendra Modi and greeted him ahead of his 75th birthday. The phone call sparked hopes of a reset in India-US ties, which had been under strain after Washington doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent.
In a social media post, Modi said that like Trump, he is also "fully" committed to taking the India-US comprehensive and global partnership to "new heights."
"Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday," Modi wrote on X. "Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict."
Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 16, 2025
Trump praises Modi
Trump said Modi is "doing a tremendous job" and thanked him for supporting his efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
"Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job," Trump said on Truth Social. "Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the war between Russia and Ukraine."
The call came a day before Modi’s 75th birthday and was the first since the US imposed 50 per cent tariffs on India.
Trade talks in New Delhi
The call coincided with a new round of India-US talks in New Delhi on a proposed bilateral trade agreement.
A spokesperson at the US embassy said: "Assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch had a positive meeting in Delhi with his counterpart Ministry of Commerce and Industry special secretary Rajesh Agrawal on September 16 to discuss next steps in bilateral trade negotiations."
Tariffs and tensions
The phone call followed social media exchanges between the two leaders in recent days, which indicated intent to rebuild ties.
Relations had been strained after the Trump administration doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, including a 25 per cent additional duty on India’s purchase of Russian crude oil. India described the action as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable."
In recent weeks, several Trump administration officials, including White House trade adviser Peter Navarro, used offensive language while criticising India’s energy ties with Russia.
India defends Russian oil purchases
India has maintained that its energy procurement is based on national interest and market factors. It turned to Russian crude offered at discounted prices after Western sanctions on Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Ongoing trade negotiations
The fresh round of trade talks came after Modi responded to Trump’s recent remarks on addressing "trade barriers."
Trump had said he looked forward to speaking with Modi in the "upcoming weeks" and expressed confidence that both sides could finalise the proposed deal.
Modi has said India and the US are natural partners and that both sides are working to conclude the negotiations.
In the past few months, several rounds of talks were held, but a deal could not be reached due to differences in areas including agriculture and dairy.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Forecasters say 30–40mm of rain is likely to fall widely
Two yellow weather warnings issued for parts of Wales and the Midlands
Up to 70mm of rain expected, bringing risk of flooding, power cuts and travel delays
Flood alerts in place for rivers in Cumbria, Devon, Cornwall and Carmarthenshire
Residents advised to prepare emergency kits and stay updated with forecasts
Heavy rainfall set to cause disruption
The Met Office has issued two yellow weather warnings covering parts of Wales and the Midlands today, with forecasters warning of potential flooding, travel disruption and power cuts. Between 6am and 11am, persistent downpours are expected to sweep eastwards, bringing nearly a month’s worth of rain in just a few hours.
Areas under warning
South and southwest Wales are expected to be worst affected, with Ceredigion, Conwy, Gwynedd and Powys in the Midlands also on alert. In Wales, warnings apply to Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea and the Vale of Glamorgan.
Rainfall and flood risks
Forecasters say 30–40mm of rain is likely to fall widely, with some southwest-facing hills facing totals of 50–70mm. The Met Office has cautioned that flooding of homes and businesses is possible, while spray and standing water could make journeys hazardous. Public transport, including bus and rail services, is also likely to be affected.
Flood alerts already in place
Flood alerts have already been issued in parts of Cumbria, including along the River Greta and River Derwent near Keswick, where nearby campsites face risk. In the southwest, alerts are in force for the Exmoor rivers in Devon and the Upper River Tamar on the Devon-Cornwall border. Natural Resources Wales has issued further alerts for rivers in Carmarthenshire, Llanelli, Llangennech, Pwll and Burry Port.
Public advice and emergency preparation
The Met Office has urged residents in affected areas to prepare a flood plan and consider assembling an emergency kit. Recommended items include torches, spare batteries, a mobile phone power pack and essential supplies in case of power cuts. Officials stress the importance of checking travel updates and staying informed, as weather warnings can change quickly.
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Donald Trump and Melania Trump exit Air Force One after arriving at London Stansted Airport for a state visit on September 16, 2025 in Stansted, Essex.
Trump begins his second state visit to the UK with a royal welcome at Windsor Castle
Prince William, Catherine, King Charles and Queen Camilla take part in ceremony
State banquet and trade talks with prime minister Keir Starmer scheduled
Protests and security operation mark visit amid political challenges
US PRESIDENT Donald Trump began his unprecedented second state visit to Britain on Wednesday with a lavish welcome from King Charles and the royal family at Windsor Castle.
The visit opened with heir to the throne Prince William and his wife Catherine greeting Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, before King Charles and Queen Camilla joined them for a carriage procession through the grounds of Windsor Castle. A wreath was laid on the tomb of Queen Elizabeth, who died in 2022.
UK officials said the visit involves the largest military ceremonial welcome for a state visit in living memory, with 1,300 troops, 120 horses, a military band ceremony, and a flypast by US and British F-35 fighter jets alongside the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows display team.
Trump, who has often expressed admiration for the British monarchy, said on arrival: “A lot of things here warm my heart.” He described Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment, as “my friend.” Earlier this year, Trump had written on social media, “I Love King Charles.”
The day will conclude with a white-tie state banquet at Windsor Castle, where Trump and King Charles are expected to deliver speeches.
prime minister Keir Starmer will host Trump on Thursday at Chequers for talks on trade, investment, and international issues including Ukraine and Gaza.
Britain is seeking to deepen economic ties and build on a new technology pact covering AI, quantum computing, and civil nuclear energy. Microsoft has pledged 31 billion pounds ($42 billion) in UK investments.
“Basically, I’m there also on trade. They want to see if they can refine the trade deal a little bit. We made a deal, and it’s a great deal. And I’m into helping them,” Trump said before departing for Britain. “They’d like to see if they could get a little bit better deal, so we’ll talk to them.”
The visit comes at a time of political challenges for Starmer, who last week dismissed UK ambassador to Washington Peter Mandelson over links to the late Jeffrey Epstein. Trump has also been linked to the Epstein scandal, which he has called a “hoax.”
The issue resurfaced on Tuesday night when protesters projected images of Trump and Epstein onto Windsor Castle. Police said four people were arrested for malicious communications over what was described as an unauthorised projection stunt.
A large security operation is in place for the visit, with 1,600 officers deployed in London to manage planned protests.
Trump is the first US president and the first elected politician to be invited for two state visits by a British monarch.