CERTAIN portions of the personal diaries and letters involving the last Viceroy of India, Lord Mountbatten, his wife Edwina and India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, will remain redacted, a UK tribunal has ruled.
Judge Sophie Buckley presided over the UK First-Tier Tribunal (Information Rights) appeal to decide whether some redacted sections of diaries and correspondence dating back to the 1930s can be fully released for open public access.
A three-member tribunal concluded recently that Southampton University did not “hold” any correspondence entitled “letters from Lady Mountbatten to Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of the newly independent India (33 files, 1948-60), along with copies of his letters to her” as part of its Broadlands Archive and was only "physically safeguarding the papers" on its premises.
“The information was not owned by the university, and its use was restricted both in contract and in practice to physically safeguarding the papers. This is akin to the papers being held by an expert storage company,” the tribunal decision read.
“Matters have moved on considerably since the decision notices… and the vast majority of the Mountbatten Papers have now been made public,” it noted.
Historian Andrew Lownie, who launched a four-year-long battle for the release of the papers for his book, The Mountbattens: The Lives and Loves of Dickie and Edwina Mountbatten, described the ruling as a victory that came “at a very high cost”.
He believes his fight was on the “crucial principles of censorship and freedom of information”.
“It has been a pyrrhic victory. Over 35,000 pages, 99 per cent of an important historical collection, has been released which will be important to future scholars and it has been a victory for free speech, academic freedom, access to archives and against government censorship,” said Lownie.
“My legal challenge has cost me an enormous amount financially – some £300,000, my savings for my old age and an inheritance for my children,” he said.
The author-historian, whose new book Traitor King: The Scandalous Exile of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, is out next month, said even the redacted material in the diaries and letters is likely to be “innocent”.
“This has simply been a face-saving exercise, but the withheld Edwina-Nehru correspondence bought at the same time with the same monies will shed fresh light on their relationship, when it began and how it shaped Independence and Partition,” he said.
“There is a huge public interest in that correspondence being released and campaigners should be lobbying Southampton University to exercise their £100 option [to acquire the ownership rights],” he said.
The papers cover an important period of British-Indian history, including when India's Partition was being overseen by Mountbatten and involves personal diaries and letters of both Lord Louis and wife Lady Edwina Mountbatten.
The Cabinet Office maintained that most of the information from those papers was already in the public domain and any withheld aspects “would compromise the UK's relations with other states", with reference to India and Pakistan.
In 2011, the University of Southampton bought Broadlands Archive from the Mountbatten family using public funds of more than £2.8 million with the intention of making the papers widely available.
However, the university then referred some of the correspondence to the Cabinet Office.
In 2019, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) found in favour of Lownie and ordered the release of the entire Broadlands Archive.
In response, the University of Southampton explained at the time that the correspondence between Lady Mountbatten and Nehru remained in private ownership and is “confidential, but the University has a future interest in it”.
It could have applied to purchase those letters, but reportedly chose not to.
The 2019 decision of the ICO was appealed, which was heard in the First-Tier Tribunal in November last year and has now been concluded.
In the lead up to the hearing, the Cabinet Office narrowed the number of exemptions they were seeking to impose so that most of the letters and diaries were available by then.
“This is a victory after four years of campaigning, but there is still a legal bill of £50,000 and so the crowfunding has to go on,” noted Lownie, in his Crowdjustice.com fundraiser appeal.
The author said he raised more than £63,000 in pledges from the website to fund the legal costs of the appeal.
The diaries of Mountbatten, a great-grandson of Queen Victoria, an uncle to the late Duke of Edinburgh and great-uncle to Prince Charles, also contain personal correspondence within the royal family – another factor cited behind some redactions.
In May last year, Southampton University said it was publishing online “previously unavailable papers” from the Broadlands Archives collection and that further material would be made available during the course of the year. It is claimed a majority of the material from the diaries is now in the public domain.
“The Broadlands Archives collection is one of the University Library's foremost collections of manuscripts... this substantial collection dates from the sixteenth century to the present. The material provides a preeminent resource for British politics in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries,” the university said.
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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. REUTERS/Jaimi Joy
UK defends France migrant returns deal after court blocks first removal
Sep 17, 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.”
(Agencies)
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Asian surgeon sentenced to six years for sexual assault
Sep 17, 2025
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.
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Trump greets Modi on 75th birthday, trade talks continue in Delhi
Sep 17, 2025
Highlights:
- 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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Met Office issues yellow weather warnings as heavy rain threatens flooding in 15 UK areas
Sep 17, 2025
Highlights:
- 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.
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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.
Getty Images
UK rolls out royal welcome as Trump begins second state visit
Sep 17, 2025
Highlights:
- 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.
(With inputs from agencies)
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