News

U.S. will hold North Korea to nuclear commitments

The United States will hold North Korea to its pledge to account for its nuclear programs, the State Department said on Wednesday as Pyongyang remained silent after failing to meet a year-end deadline to give a full accounting of its nuclear arms program.

Cancer hospital evacuated after fire

A fire tore through the top floor of a world-leading cancer hospital in London on Wednesday, forcing the evacuation of all staff and patients, including some who were already undergoing operations.

Container ship runs aground off Dover

A large container ship has run aground off Dover in worsening seas, the coastguard said on Wednesday.

Britain has 'four different NHS systems'

Devolution has inspired four different National Health Service systems each with their own priorities, a health boss said on Wednesday.

UK seen giving green light to new nuclear plants

Britain is expected to give the go-ahead to a new generation of nuclear power stations next week, sparking a frenzy of deal-making by nuclear firms as well as a fresh challenge from environmental campaigners.

UK says Kenya crisis puts African democracy at risk

Britain called on Wednesday for an end to the tribal violence tearing Kenya apart after disputed elections and said a rapid and peaceful solution was vital for democracy in Africa.

Final poll shows Huckabee, Obama ahead in Iowa

US presidential hopefuls Mike Huckabee and Barack Obama lead Iowa's nominating caucuses.

Kenya death toll reaches 300

Death toll in Kenya post-election clashes hits 300, according to local rights organisation and international group.

Over 700 Indian Christians move to relief camps to avoid attacks

Over 700 Christians in India have taken shelter in government-run relief camps, fearing attacks by Hindu extremist groups.

Report: China allowing 40 North Korean refugees to seek asylum

The Chinese Government has reportedly decided to allow about 40 North Korean refugees to leave for a third country months before the upcoming Beijing Olympics.

Fundraiser cycling to every Anglican cathedral in British Isles

One man from Letton in Herefordshire is hoping to raise thousands for charity by cycling to every Anglican cathedral in the British Isles.

Pope says family key to peace

In his New Year message to millions of Catholics worldwide on Tuesday, Pope Benedict reaffirmed the status of the family as one of the most important foundations for peace in the world.

Anglican bishop urges Communion not to sweep homosexuality under rug

A senior Church of England bishop has urged the Anglican Communion to face up to the controversial issue of homosexuality in the Church at this year's landmark Lambeth Conference.

Kenya's Kibaki charges 'ethnic cleansing' by rivals

President Mwai Kibaki's government accused rival Raila Odinga's backers on Wednesday of responsibility for an explosion of tribal violence over a disputed presidential poll that has plunged Kenya into turmoil.

Olmert hints Jerusalem division is inevitable

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert signalled on Tuesday Israel might have no choice but to share Jerusalem with the Palestinians in a peace deal, citing international pressure for compromise over the holy city.

Troubles for Anglican Church in Zimbabwe continue

The Anglican Church in Zimbabwe has continued to experience problems in the face of clashes between two rival groups in a dispute over church leadership.