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UK Hostage Murder Threat 'Against Sharia'

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 20 September 2014 | 16.12

A group of Muslim scholars has made a direct appeal to Islamic State (IS) militants to release British hostage Alan Henning.

In a video message posted online, the men told the 47-year-old's captors that killing him would be against Islamic law.

Mr Henning, a taxi driver from Salford, was delivering aid in Syria when he was captured in December near the town of al Dana.

Shaykh Haitham al Haddad, a qadi or judge in the Sharia council in London, said: "This is to confirm that executing this man is totally haram (sinful), is impermissible, prohibited according to Sharia for a number of reasons."

Ustadh Abu Eesa, director at Prophetic Guidance in Manchester, said Mr Henning had joined a Muslim charity convoy because he "passionately believes in helping the most needy".

He said: "No matter what our differences, no matter how differently we see the world, what there is no doubt about is that the killing of an innocent man is not permitted in the religion of Allah.

"It is not permissible whatsoever to harm a person who believes that he is safe among the people he is working with. This safety must be honoured."

Alan Henning Mr Henning, 47, had driven an ambulance to Syria to deliver aid

A third scholar, Imam Shakeel Begg from the Lewisham Islamic Centre, said Mr Henning was innocent.

He added: "Whatever your grievance, whatever your cause, this man is innocent."

It comes after more than 100 Muslim leaders signed a statement pleading for IS to release Mr Henning and branding them "monsters" for the murder of fellow hostage David Haines.

In a letter in the Independent newspaper, they said: "We, the undersigned British Muslim Imams, organisations and individuals, wish to express our horror and revulsion at the senseless murder of David Haines and the threat to the life of our fellow British citizen, Alan Henning."

Mr Henning appeared at the end of a video released by IS militants last Saturday in which Mr Haines was beheaded. The video contained a threat that he would be killed next.

Separate video footage - filmed before his capture - showed him saying it was "all worthwhile" to ensure aid got to where it was most needed in Syria.


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Devolution Wranglings Could End In Stalemate

Devo Max: What New Powers Can Scotland Have?

Updated: 4:18pm UK, Friday 19 September 2014

David Cameron has pledged new powers for Scotland that some have said amount to Devo Max. However, it's not quite as clear cut as that.

What is Devo Max?

Scottish Parliament basically gets power over everything - apart from defence and foreign affairs. Maximum devolution.

Is that on offer?

No it's not, although some say David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband have come close to that.

What powers does Scotland already have?

It makes its own laws on health, education, law and order, environment, social services, housing, local government, tourism, agriculture, forestry, fisheries and some areas of transport. It can also raise or lower its income tax by 3p, but has not used this power.

What does Westminster have control of?

Defence, social security, immigration, benefits, foreign policy, employment, broadcasting, trade and industry, nuclear energy, oil, gas and electricity, consumer affairs and the constitution.

What powers will be given away in this quasi Devo Max deal?

It is not entirely clear. More power over setting income tax is definitely on the agenda, and control of housing benefits too. Holyrood is unlikely to get control over the oil take or corporation tax.

Under Gordon Brown's 12-point plan, giveaways include power over borrowing, job creation, social care and employment rights. The Scottish Parliament will also be confirmed as permanent, binding future governments to ensure its continued existence.

But what about England, Wales and Northern Ireland?

Well, Mr Cameron has also promised more powers for Wales and Northern Ireland and to listen to the "millions of voices of England". He has promised to address the problem of "English votes for English laws" or the West Lothian question as it is also called. 

At the moment Scotland's 59 MPs can vote on matters that affect all of the UK but English MPs cannot vote on Scottish matters where powers have been devolved to Holyrood. 

With the promise of new powers for Scotland's Parliament, it has led to calls of "unfair" and for England to get more powers and the Prime Minister has said he will deliver. A sort of devolution revolution, if you will. 

Leader of the House of Commons William Hague is in charge of drawing up these plans but do expect that the Lib Dems and Labour will have rival versions. No cross-party consensus has been reached as with devolved powers for Scotland.

Make no mistake, it's a major shake-up - and yes, it will be an election issue.

So when is all this going to happen?

Gordon Brown has tabled a House of Commons debate over his planned 12-point power giveaway and the timetable for its delivery in mid-October.

There intention is that a new draft law to be drawn up by January 25 (Burns Night). Alex Salmond has agreed to talks to thrash out the details of these new powers but he will clearly be trying to get as close to delivering Devo Max as he can - having lost the battle for independence. It will not be passed until after the General Election in May but as there is a cross-party agreement theoretically, this should not provide a problem.

But the plans for England, Wales and Scotland do not have to work to the same timetable. They could be far more contentious as the parties are unlikely to agree on plans. Any English votes for English laws will put Labour at a distinct disadvantage as it effectively loses 40 MPs if its Scottish politicians are not included.

In addition, English MPs may be reluctant to allow new powers for Scotland to go through when they don't know "what's in it for them". 

In short, this could get messy and take a very long time.


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Brown To Set Out Vision For Scotland's Future

Devo Max: What New Powers Can Scotland Have?

Updated: 4:18pm UK, Friday 19 September 2014

David Cameron has pledged new powers for Scotland that some have said amount to Devo Max. However, it's not quite as clear cut as that.

What is Devo Max?

Scottish Parliament basically gets power over everything - apart from defence and foreign affairs. Maximum devolution.

Is that on offer?

No it's not, although some say David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband have come close to that.

What powers does Scotland already have?

It makes its own laws on health, education, law and order, environment, social services, housing, local government, tourism, agriculture, forestry, fisheries and some areas of transport. It can also raise or lower its income tax by 3p, but has not used this power.

What does Westminster have control of?

Defence, social security, immigration, benefits, foreign policy, employment, broadcasting, trade and industry, nuclear energy, oil, gas and electricity, consumer affairs and the constitution.

What powers will be given away in this quasi Devo Max deal?

It is not entirely clear. More power over setting income tax is definitely on the agenda, and control of housing benefits too. Holyrood is unlikely to get control over the oil take or corporation tax.

Under Gordon Brown's 12-point plan, giveaways include power over borrowing, job creation, social care and employment rights. The Scottish Parliament will also be confirmed as permanent, binding future governments to ensure its continued existence.

But what about England, Wales and Northern Ireland?

Well, Mr Cameron has also promised more powers for Wales and Northern Ireland and to listen to the "millions of voices of England". He has promised to address the problem of "English votes for English laws" or the West Lothian question as it is also called. 

At the moment Scotland's 59 MPs can vote on matters that affect all of the UK but English MPs cannot vote on Scottish matters where powers have been devolved to Holyrood. 

With the promise of new powers for Scotland's Parliament, it has led to calls of "unfair" and for England to get more powers and the Prime Minister has said he will deliver. A sort of devolution revolution, if you will. 

Leader of the House of Commons William Hague is in charge of drawing up these plans but do expect that the Lib Dems and Labour will have rival versions. No cross-party consensus has been reached as with devolved powers for Scotland.

Make no mistake, it's a major shake-up - and yes, it will be an election issue.

So when is all this going to happen?

Gordon Brown has tabled a House of Commons debate over his planned 12-point power giveaway and the timetable for its delivery in mid-October.

There intention is that a new draft law to be drawn up by January 25 (Burns Night). Alex Salmond has agreed to talks to thrash out the details of these new powers but he will clearly be trying to get as close to delivering Devo Max as he can - having lost the battle for independence. It will not be passed until after the General Election in May but as there is a cross-party agreement theoretically, this should not provide a problem.

But the plans for England, Wales and Scotland do not have to work to the same timetable. They could be far more contentious as the parties are unlikely to agree on plans. Any English votes for English laws will put Labour at a distinct disadvantage as it effectively loses 40 MPs if its Scottish politicians are not included.

In addition, English MPs may be reluctant to allow new powers for Scotland to go through when they don't know "what's in it for them". 

In short, this could get messy and take a very long time.


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Scottish Referendum: What They're Saying

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 19 September 2014 | 16.12

Supporters of both the Yes and No campaigns have been giving their reactions to Scotland's decision to reject independence.

Prime Minister David Cameron: "The people of Scotland have spoken and it is a clear result. They've kept our country of four nations together and like millions of other people, I am delighted.

"As I said during the campaign, it would have broken my heart to see our United Kingdom come to an end and I know that this sentiment was shared not just by people across our country but also around the world.

"Now the debate has been settled for a generation, or as Alex Salmond has said, perhaps for a lifetime. So there can be no disputes, no reruns - we have heard the settled will of the Scottish people.

Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond speaks at the "Yes" Campaign headquarters in Edinburgh, Scotland Alex Salmond: 'I accept that verdict of the people'

Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond: "Scotland has by majority decided not at this stage to become an independent country and I accept that verdict of the people, and I call on all Scots to follow suit in accepting the democratic verdict of the people of Scotland.

"The process by which we have made our decision as a nation reflects enormous credit upon Scotland.

Rowling to publish 2nd crime novel Harry Potter author JK Rowling gave financial backing to the No campaign

"A turnout of 86% is one of the highest in the democratic world for any election or any referendum in history - this has been a triumph for the democratic process and for participation in politics."

Better Together campaign chair Alistair Darling: "The people of Scotland have spoken. We have chosen unity over division and positive change rather than needless separation."

Nicola Sturgeon embraces yes campaigners in Glasow Nicola Sturgeon said the campaign was 'a joy to be part of'

Author and Better Together supporter J K Rowling: "Been up all night watching Scotland make history. A huge turnout, a peaceful democratic process: we should be proud."

Scottish Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon: "This campaign has been a joy to be part of, it's quite unlike anything I've ever been part of in my life before.

"As have thousands and thousands of others, I have given my heart and soul to this campaign but what has been amazing are the number of people who have never been involved in politics before, who have never campaigned as part of a political movement before, who have got involved."

Nick Clegg Nick Clegg said the result was welcome 'in a dangerous and uncertain world'

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg: "I'm absolutely delighted the Scottish people have taken this momentous decision to safeguard our family of nations for future generations.

"In a dangerous and uncertain world I have no doubt we are stronger, safer, and more prosperous together than we ever could be apart.

"But a vote against independence was clearly not a vote against change and we must now deliver on time and in full the radical package of newly devolved powers to Scotland.

Better Together's Jim Murphy: "We are going to have to make a success of the decision Scotland has made.

"While I'm delighted, there is no time or space for triumph and we have got to get on and offer that devolution package we offered and unite the country around that.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby: "Over the past few weeks the campaign has touched on such raw issues of identity and been so closely fought that it has generated profound questioning and unsettlement far beyond Scotland.

"The decision by the Scottish people to remain within the United Kingdom, while deeply disappointing to many, will be welcomed by all those who believe that this country can continue to be an example of how different nations can work together for the common good within one state.

UKIP leader Nigel Farage: "The way that Westminster handled this was abysmal from the start.

"A series of promises were made on behalf of the English. The English are 86% by population of this union, they've been left out of all of this ( The Barnett formula) for the past 18 years ... what most English people want is a fair settlement."

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson: "Scotland had the biggest, broadest conversation about our future. We have to come together again & move forward together. It's all our home."

Northern Ireland's First Minister Peter Robinson: "Delighted Scotland has voted to remain in the Union.  We are better together."

Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones: "Pleased the people of Scotland have voted to remain in the Union – together we will shape a new constitutional future for the UK."

Conservative MP Mark Reckless on Twitter: "I am so pleased to be able to tell the children this morning that Mummy won't be becoming a foreigner."


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Scotland Votes No: PM Promises New Powers

Devo Max: What Devolution Revolution Means

Updated: 9:51am UK, Friday 19 September 2014

David Cameron has pledged new powers for Scotland that some have said amount to Devo Max. However, it's not quite as clear cut as that.

What is Devo Max?

Scottish Parliament basically gets power over everything - apart from defence and foreign affairs. Maximum devolution.

Is that on offer?

No it's not, although some say David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband have come close to that.

What powers does Scotland already have?

It makes its own laws on health, education, law and order, environment, social services, housing, local government, tourism, agriculture, forestry, fisheries and some areas of transport. It can also raise or lower its income tax by 3p, but has not used this power.

What does Westminster have control of?

Defence, social security, immigration, benefits, foreign policy, employment, broadcasting, trade and industry, nuclear energy, oil, gas and electricity, consumer affairs and the constitution.

What powers will be given away in this quasi Devo Max deal?

It is not entirely clear. More power over setting income tax is definitely on the agenda, and control of housing benefits too. Holyrood is unlikely to get control over the oil take or corporation tax.

Under Gordon Brown's 12-point plan, giveaways include power over borrowing, job creation, social care and employment rights. The Scottish Parliament will also be confirmed as permanent, binding future governments to ensure its continued existence.

But what about England, Wales and Northern Ireland?

Well, Mr Cameron has also promised more powers for Wales and Northern Ireland and to listen to the "millions of voices of England". He has promised to address the problem of "English votes for English laws" or the West Lothian question as it is also called. 

At the moment Scotland's 59 MPs can vote on matters that affect all of the UK but English MPs cannot vote on Scottish matters where powers have been devolved to Holyrood. 

With the promise of new powers for Scotland's Parliament, it has led to calls of "unfair" and for England to get more powers and the Prime Minister has said he will deliver. A sort of devolution revolution, if you will. 

Leader of the House of Commons William Hague is in charge of drawing up these plans but do expect that the Lib Dems and Labour will have rival versions. No cross-party consensus has been reached as with devolved powers for Scotland.

Make no mistake, it's a major shake-up - and yes, it will be an election issue.

So when is all this going to happen?

Gordon Brown has tabled a House of Commons debate over his planned 12-point power giveaway and the timetable for its delivery in mid-October.

There intention is that a new draft law to be drawn up by January 25 (Burns Night). Alex Salmond has agreed to talks to thrash out the details of these new powers but he will clearly be trying to get as close to delivering Devo Max as he can - having lost the battle for independence. It will not be passed until after the General Election in May but as there is a cross-party agreement theoretically, this should not provide a problem.

But the plans for England, Wales and Scotland do not have to work to the same timetable. They could be far more contentious as the parties are unlikely to agree on plans. Any English votes for English laws will put Labour at a distinct disadvantage as it effectively loses 40 MPs if its Scottish politicians are not included.

In addition, English MPs may be reluctant to allow new powers for Scotland to go through when they don't know "what's in it for them". 

In short, this could get messy and take a very long time.

:: Watch live: Scottish referendum coverage now on Sky News Sky 501, Virgin Media 602, Freesat 202, Freeview 132.

:: Live coverage is also available on sky.com/news and Sky News for iPad and on your mobile phone.


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Scotland Vote Not A Total Disaster For Salmond

Alienation Sparked Historic Scotland Poll

Updated: 12:54am UK, Friday 19 September 2014

By Adam Boulton, Sky News Presenter

The genesis of Scotland's independence vote really lies in the outcome of the 2010 General Election.

The Labour governments under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown broadly reflected how Scots had voted and they restored the Scottish Parliament after a 300-year adjournment.

But in 2010 Scots ended up with a Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition Government, although Labour MPs had been elected in 41 out of Scotland's 59 Constituencies.

The Conservatives have just one MP north of the border.

There was a mood of alienation from Westminster politics which was ripe for exploitation.

The Scottish National Party capitalised and in the 2011 elections for the Holyrood parliament they won a remarkable overall majority in spite of a proportional representation voting system - 69 out of 129 seats.

This gave Alex Salmond, the SNP leader and Scotland's First Minister, a clear mandate to hold a referendum on Scotland's future and he began negotiations with the UK Prime Minister with whom authority to hold binding plebiscites ultimately lay.

On October 15, 2012 David Cameron and Mr Salmond signed the Edinburgh Agreement announcing a decisive referendum on Scotland's future.

The agreement gave Mr Salmond most of what he was asking for.

The question would be "Should Scotland be an independent country?" rather than "Should Scotland remain part of the UK?" - giving independence the traditional advantage of being a Yes campaign.

Mr Cameron insisted it should be an all-or-nothing vote by ruling out a second question offering the softer option of further devolution.

Since so-called "devo-max" is now a last-minute offer from the No side anyway, Mr Cameron will face potentially politically fatal recriminations for the way he handled these negotiations should Yes win the day.

But for most of the two years leading up to the referendum, there was a complacent assumption in London that No would prevail.

Even after Mr Salmond published his blueprint, Scotland's Future, last November the opinion polls remained static at around 60% for No and 40% for Yes.

The UK Government decided to frame the referendum as an argument for Scottish voters alone, ignoring the consequences for the rest of the UK.

Mr Cameron refused to engage in TV debates with Mr Salmond, leaving that job to Alistair Darling, the former Labour chancellor and a Scottish MP.

The Better Together No campaign focused on the possible pitfalls of independence rather than highlighting the advantages of union with England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

This strategy was greatly aided by a speech from the Governor of the Bank of England this spring, pointing out the difficulties an independent Scotland would have continuing to use the pound sterling as its currency.

The currency question has been the Achilles heel of Mr Salmond's campaign.

Originally, he saw Scotland as a member of the Eurozone but abandoned that after the 2008 financial crisis.

Under his revised plans an independent Scotland would keep the Queen, the pound and most other aspects of the Union as well as membership of Nato and the EU.

Mr Salmond failed to produce compelling evidence that his putative partners would agree to his deals.

But he dismissed the doubters as "scaremongers" in a UK Government-run "Project Fear".

With just 11 days to go until polling, the mood changed dramatically for both sides.

A single opinion poll by YouGov for the Sunday Times put independence in the lead by 51% to 49%.

A shocked Mr Cameron cancelled parliamentary business to lead an emergency delegation to Scotland.

He, Ed Miliband and Nick Clegg all hit the campaign trail for No.

In an emotional speech in Glasgow the Prime Minister appealed "head, heart and soul" for Scots to stick with the Union.

A stream of big businesses including Standard Life insurance, RBS and major phone companies warned of dire economic consequences if Scotland went independent.

Backed by a "vow" from the three UK party leaders, Mr Brown swung into action, promising "Scottish Home Rule" if it rejected full independence.

But by now the Yes campaign felt it had momentum behind it and brushed off negative predictions, which seemed to have little impact on the polls.

A record 97% of those eligible to vote, 4.3m people, registered for the referendum.

If Yes could turn them out, victory appeared to be in its grasp.

Yes supporters tended to be younger, poorer and more outspoken than those on the No side.

There were allegations of intimidating behaviour and a "sour atmosphere" according to Mr Darling.

But both he and Mr Salmond promised to accept the outcome even if it meant defeat for their side - and to work to re-unite the divided Scots.

:: Watch live: Scottish referendum coverage on Sky News Sky 501, Virgin Media 602, Freesat 202, Freeview 132.

:: Live coverage is also available on sky.com/news and Sky News for iPad and on your mobile phone.


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Decision Day For Voters: Scots Go To Polls

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 18 September 2014 | 16.12

By Jon Craig, Chief Political Correspondent

Scottish people have started voting in a referendum that will change Britain forever, whatever the outcome.

Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond was pictured outside Ritchie Hall polling station in Strichen, Aberdeenshire, after polls opened this morning.

Gordon Brown Gordon Brown outside a polling station in Fife

Meanwhile, former PM Gordon Brown was photographed with No campaigners outside the polling station at North Queensferry Community Centre, Fife. 

Elsewhere, long queues began to form outside polling stations across the country.

Scottish referendum decision time promo

A Yes vote at the end of a hard-fought campaign will bring an end to the Union of the United Kingdom that has stood for 307 years.

Voters will be asked a simple question: "Should Scotland be an independent country?"

Alex Salmond Alex Salmond outside a polling station in Aberdeenshire

Four million people will take part in the referendum which is expected to produce a turnout as high as 90%.

More than 2,600 schools, sports centres and local halls have opened their doors to voters.

After the polls close at 10pm tonight, counting of the votes takes place at 32 regional centres all over Scotland and then once each result is in, the numbers will be sent to the main counting centre in Edinburgh.

Decision time Scotland

The earliest declarations, at around 2am on Friday, will include North Lanarkshire, Orkney, East Lothian and Perth and Kinross.

The latest, at 6am, is expected to be Aberdeen. Dundee is expected at 3am and Edinburgh and Glasgow at 5am.

:: Watch live: Scottish referendum coverage from 9pm on Sky News Sky 501, Virgin Media 602, Freesat 202, Freeview 132.


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Scotland: Keep Up With Events As They Unfold

Polls have opened in Scotland but what next? Here is the timetable of what to expect over the next 24 hours and where you can find our correspondents.

Thursday:

7am Polling stations open.

7.30am Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon votes in Broomhouse, Glasgow.

9am Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond to cast his vote in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, while Gordon Brown votes in North Queensferry.

9.30am Better Together campaign leader Alistair Darling votes in Edinburgh.

9pm A Sky News special programme dedicated to the referendum begins.

Scottish referendum decision time promo

10pm Polls close.

Midnight The counting of ballot papers gets under way across Scotland's 32 local authorities.

Throughout the day, Sky News correspondents will be reporting from Scotland as voters go to the polls. During the morning, political correspondent Anushka Asthana will be in Glasgow before political editor Faisal Islam takes over from Holyrood, Edinburgh, at midday. Scotland bureau chief James Matthews begins reports from 3pm.  

Friday:

2am First seven councils expected to declare their results: East Lothian, Inverclyde, Moray, North Lanarkshire, the Orkney Islands, Perth and Kinross and the Western Isles.

2.30am Clackmannanshire votes declared.

Decision time Scotland

3am Aberdeenshire, Angus, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Falkirk, Renfrewshire, South Lanarkshire, Stirling and West Dunbartonshire to declare - that will bring counting to just under half the votes to be counted.

3.30am Midlothian, Shetland, South Ayreshire, Argyll, West Lothian and East Dunbartonshire to declare.

4am Fife and Highland to declare.

4.30am North Ayrshire will declare votes.

5am Declarations expected from the Scottish Borders, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Final outcome may now be clear.

6am Aberdeen will be the last to declare.

7am: Chief counting officer Mary Pitcaithly expected to announce result from the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston outside Edinburgh.

Overnight and into the morning Sky News correspondents and presenters provide detailed coverage and analysis of the poll.  Adam Boulton reports on the central count at the Royal Highland Centre, in Ingliston, Edinburgh, while fellow anchor Kay Burley reports on the count from Glasgow. Niall Paterson reports on the Aberdeenshire count, while Mark White covers North Lanarkshire. Rachel Younger covers Orkney and Jon Craig covers Dundee. Meanwhile, Anushka Asthana reports from the No campaign HQ in Glasgow and Faisal Islam from the Yes HQ in Edinburgh. Throughout the night our correspondents will also provide analysis from Westminster and Sky News HQ in west London.   

:: Watch live: Scottish referendum coverage from 9pm on Sky News Sky 501, Virgin Media 602, Freesat 202, Freeview 132.


16.12 | 0 komentar | Read More

Missing Alice Gross Suspect 'A Murder Convict'

The Latvian builder that police are looking for in connection with the disappearance of Alice Gross has a murder conviction in his native country.

Police have now named Arnis Zalkalns as a suspect, and revealed that as well as the murder conviction, he has been previously arrested in London for an indecent assault on a young girl.

The 41-year-old was caught on CCTV cycling along the path where Alice was last seen, and Scotland Yard have been urging him to come forward.

CCTV of suspect in murder of Alice Gross, Arnis Zalkalns Lower left, Arnie Zalkalns cycling along Alice's route, 15 minutes later

Zalkalns has not accessed his bank account or used his mobile phone since September 3, and has not returned home since this date.

At a press conference, investigators confirmed it may be possible that someone is helping the convicted murderer, by providing him with money or somewhere to stay.

It is thought Zalkalns has been in the UK since 2007 - however, he left his passport at home in Ealing since disappearing two weeks ago.

Police have warned the Latvian man "clearly poses a risk to the public", and has warned anyone who sees the suspect not to approach him.

More follows...


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Two Dead In Helicopter Crash Off Flamborough

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 17 September 2014 | 16.12

Two men have died after a helicopter crashed into the sea near a lighthouse at Flamborough, East Yorkshire.

The RAF and the local air ambulance, as well as lifeboats from Flamborough and Bridlington, were called to the scene just after noon on Tuesday.

The bodies were recovered shortly after 5pm, said a Humberside Police spokesman.

The helicopter was a private charter and had taken off from an airfield near Edinburgh.

Helicopter crash in Flamborough, East Yorkshire Golfers at the Flamborough Head club saw the aircraft disappear from view Coastguard vehicles

It was due to refuel at Humberside Airport around the time it crashed and then head on to a destination near Retford, Nottinghamshire.

Ron Marwood, chairman of the local golf club, which fringes the cliffs, described the helicopter as probably having just two to four seats.

He told Sky News he had heard a change in engine noise and then it "just disappeared".

Flamborough map

"It was flying along quite happily. The engine noise seemed to change - that was the first I sort of took notice of it," said Mr Marwood.

"It appeared to be coming in, as if to try and get in close to the cliff and maybe land on the cliff, because it's all cornfields and that.

"But it disappeared below the level of the cliff."

Ron Marwood Ron Marwood said the helicopter disappeared below the cliff

Visibility was around three to four miles and emergency services arrived within minutes, Mr Marwood said.

It is believed the helicopter was a JetRanger type.

A team from the Government's Air Accidents Investigation Branch is now investigating.

Members of the public are being warned to stay away from the crash site due to dangerous cliff edges and aviation fuel in the water.


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A Third Of Women 'Victims Of Domestic Abuse'

One in three women in Britain have suffered domestic violence, according to a new survey.

And the poll found more than a third of victims (35%) had kept it a secret from friends and family.

National women's charity Refuge said the findings suggested an increased awareness of the crime among women, but that it remained a hidden problem.

The YouGov poll, commissioned by the charity and ITV's Loose Women show, defined domestic violence as an incident of threatening behaviour, violence or emotional abuse.

Refuge chief executive Sandra Horley, CBE, said: "We don't know the true extent of domestic violence because so many women don't disclose their experiences to anyone. It's a hidden problem.

"This survey shows that one woman in three have experienced domestic violence.

"This could indicate that more women are aware of the problem and are better able to recognise the signs of abuse.

"It is not surprising to me that this poll has shown that domestic violence affects huge numbers of women in this country."

The survey showed that of the victims who had revealed the abuse, nearly half (43%) thought it was not serious enough to involve other people.

A third thought it was a private matter and 14% thought their partner's behaviour was a normal part of being in a relationship.

Of all the women that took part in the survey, nearly one in four (23%) said they would not know how to help a victim.

Ms Horley added: "Domestic violence is all about power and control. It is purposeful, systematic, patterned behaviour designed to exert control over a partner.

"The truth is that domestic violence is not a private matter.

"It is a huge social issue that affects the whole of our society."

The poll of 2,244 women was carried out online between September 3 and 5. The data was weighted to represent all British women.


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Missing Alice Gross' Mum In 'Come Home' Plea

The mother of Alice Gross has said there is "not a moment" she does not wonder where her missing daughter is as she made an appeal for help finding her.

Rosalind Hodgkiss encouraged anyone with information about the 14-year-old's whereabouts to "come forward to the police and get her home because that's where she belongs and she needs to be here with us".

There have been no sightings of the schoolgirl since August 28, despite public appeals and a massive search.

Police are asking Arnis Zalkalns to contact them as he went missing a week after Alice Gross disappeared and he cycled along the same canal where she went missing Police say Arnis Zalkalns may have information that could help find Alice

Her mobile phone has not been used since she sent a text to her father that day 

Her rucksack was found on a footpath running beside the River Brent between Hanwell Bridge and the Grand Union Canal.

Ms Hodgkiss told Crimewatch: "There's not a moment of the day that you don't think about Alice and where she is, what might have happened or why she might have gone missing.

"It's almost impossible to describe what that pain feels like but we just want her to know: please Alice, if you're out there, come home."

Her appeal came as police released the photo of a Latvian builder they would like to speak to in connection with the investigation.

Arnis Zalkalns, 41, is known to travel on the same stretch of the Grand Union Canal as where the schoolgirl was last seen on the evening of August 28, and has not been seen himself for almost two weeks.

Alice Gross missing in Hanwell Alice Gross, 14, went missing from Hanwell

Scotland Yard said he left his home in Ealing, west London, on September 4 and would normally have met a friend to cycle to work, but he did not show up.

They said the disappearance of Mr Zalkalns, who has a partner and child, is "completely out of character".

Detective Superintendent Carl Mehta, of the Met's homicide and major crime unit, said: "At this stage we simply want to speak to him, as he may well have important information that can help our search for Alice."

"I would stress that based on what we know now there is no evidence to suggest that Arnis and Alice knew each other. This continues to be a fast moving investigation, and this is one of a number of lines of enquiry that we are urgently looking into."


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Thai Murders: Police Focus On Migrant Workers

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 16 September 2014 | 16.12

Police investigating the "gruesome" killing of two British tourists in Thailand say they are looking at whether someone from the migrant worker community could be involved.

The bodies of 24-year-old David Miller, from Jersey, and 23-year-old Hannah Witheridge, from Great Yarmouth, were discovered semi-naked on a beach in Koh Tao on Monday.

A bloodstained hoe, believed to be the murder weapon, was found nearby.

The manhunt originally centred on an apparently British backpacker, but Thai police now appear to have changed tack.

THAILAND-BRITAIN-TOURISM-CRIME The victims were removed in blue body bags

"We are focusing on migrant workers because of the surrounding witnesses and evidence, including the video footage," Major General Kiattipong Khawsamang said.

"We are sweeping hotels, bars, businesses and residences of migrant workers on the beach to find the suspect."

Police have released CCTV stills in the area, one of which reportedly shows the two victims, who had met on the island, walking hand-in-hand.

A suspect, believed to be Asian, appears in a later image, but police say they are following a number of leads.

Friends and family pay tribute to British duo David Miller and Hannah Witheridge as CCTV points police to migrant workers. Friends have paid tribute to the victims on social media

Some 70 officers are now on the island and defence minister Prawit Wongsuwan said police hoped "to make an arrest as soon as possible".

Ms Witheridge's father Tony said his family was "distraught" at receiving "the most devastating news".

Meanwhile, Mr Miller's former headmaster at Victoria College in Jersey, Alun Watkins, described him as a "bright young man and a talented artist" and said his death was "hard to comprehend".

Friends have paid tribute to the victims on social media.

Mr Miller's girlfriend, Jessy Howorth, said: "My best friend and the love of my life. We were meant to have so much more time together but I'll continue loving you everyday forever."

Koh Tao island The island of Koh Tao is a popular holiday destination

Friend Ellie Griffiths said: "So shocked and upset to hear about the death of such an incredibly warm, charismatic, smiley and insightful person.

"Your absence on this planet will be missed and often thought about, I'm so pleased and honoured to have known you Dave."

A Facebook tribute page was set up in memory of Miss Witheridge.

Kal Sylvan Holmes, a friend, said: "Just found out a friend from school was murdered in Thailand. I feel sick and upset."

The victims' bodies, found roughly 100 yards from the scene of a beach party, were taken away in blue body bags.

Police Colonel Prachum Ruangthong said: "The man was chopped in the back and on the side of his head, while the woman was chopped in her face.

Friends and family pay tribute to British duo David Miller and Hannah Witheridge as CCTV points police to migrant workers. Local people gathered for a candlelit vigil

"It's very gruesome."

Local people gathered on the beach last night for a candlelit vigil in memory of the pair.

Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-ocha said: "This should not have happened in Thailand. It will affect our image in the eyes of international countries."


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Fog Causing Flight Delays At London Airport

Heavy fog has blanketed much of southern England, causing delays to flights and visibility to drop below 100m in some areas.

East Anglia, London and the East Midlands have been affected, but Kent appears to be worst hit.

A photo of a foggy Gatwick Airport taken by Martin McCarthy Heavy fog at Gatwick Airport. Pic: Martin McCarthy

London City Airport is experiencing flight delays of up to five hours, while Heathrow and Gatwick airports said they were operating normally.

The low visibility also caused flight delays in other European cities, with airports in Lisbon, Amsterdam and Zurich affected, according to air safety navigation company    Eurocontrol.

Back in the UK, the Met Office has issued a severe weather warning.

Met Office map Yellow 'be aware' warning for fog in the UK

"Widespread fog is affecting much of East Anglia, southeast England and the East Midlands this morning with visibility reduced to 100m or less in places," the Met Office said.

"The public should be aware that this will lead to difficult travelling conditions during this morning's busy period.

"The fog should gradually lift and disperse during the morning."

The Woolwich Ferry in London suspended operations, while Kent Police warned people to take care.

Sky News weather presenter Isobel Lang said the fog was fairly widespread.

"It's pretty poor too as we head up across northern England and into southern Scotland," she said.

"It's not the worst of the foggy mornings we've had and probably not the worst we will have as we come into autumn proper. But it's bad enough to cause disruption."


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Inflation Slips But House Price Growth Surges

Official figures have charted an easing in the annual rate of inflation but house price growth accelerating to a seven-year high.

Separate releases by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed CPI inflation at 1.5% - falling back from 1.6% the previous month - with the biggest contributions coming from the supermarket price war and falling petrol costs.

The means that while wage growth remains much weaker that the rate of inflation - maintaining the squeeze on earnings - the gap was slightly reduced.

The ONS statistics on house prices however showed that purchasers would need to dig deeper for a deposit.

The average cost of a home rose 11.7% to a new record high of £272,000 in the year to July, though annual growth in London slipped slightly to a rate of 19.1% from 19.3% the previous month.

The study - by nation - showed prices rose 12% in England, 7.4% in Wales, 7.6% in Scotland and 4.5% in Northern Ireland.

The official ONS figures lag other major market surveys, which have previously suggested that growth levels slowed in August.

But its report showed several UK regions saw property prices reach fresh all-time highs in July.

The East Midlands, West Midlands and South West joined London, the East and the South East in having price levels higher than their pre-financial crisis peaks of 2007/08, the ONS said.

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Ex-Cabbie Held By IS 'Does A Lot For Others'

Written By Unknown on Senin, 15 September 2014 | 16.12

Hollande: Threat From Islamic State Is Global

Updated: 10:08am UK, Monday 15 September 2014

International efforts to combat Islamic State militants have taken on an added urgency after the beheading of a British aid worker and the threat to kill a second UK hostage.

The brutal murder of David Haines comes amid moves to form a broad coalition against the terror group which has grabbed large swathes of territory in Syria and Iraq.

Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond is attending a summit - spearheaded by French President Francois Hollande and Iraqi President Fuad Masum in Paris this morning - bringing together 30 countries to co-ordinate a response to the IS threat.

Mr Hollande opened the summit warning: "The terrorist threat is global and the response must be global... There is no time to lose."

Mr Masum told delegates there was a need for a "quick response"  to the Islamist group which he said had "committed massacres and genocidal crimes".

Prince Saud al Faisal, foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, and representatives of the six-nation Gulf Co-operation Council (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are also among the delegates at the conference.

Ahead of the talks, Washington said several countries in the Middle East had offered to join airstrikes against the militants, while Australia said it would send aircraft and personnel and France announced it would begin reconnaissance missions over Iraq.

Prime Minister David Cameron, who is under pressure to act following the killing of Mr Haines, has given no indication over whether he would commit military forces to airstrikes.

Video footage of the British aid worker's death showed a knife-wielding militant who speaks with a British accent.

The clip also included a threat to kill a second hostage, Alan Henning, who was a volunteer on an aid convoy.

It follows the beheadings of two American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff.

Mr Cameron vowed to "hunt down" the "monsters" who killed Mr Haines, and said the crime would "strengthen our resolve" to smash the extremist network which has seized swathes of Iraq and Syria.

He said the UK would seek to "mobilise the broadest possible support to bear down" on IS at the United Nations.

"This is not about British combat troops on the ground, it is about working with others to extinguish this terrorist threat," he said.

"As this strategy intensifies we are ready to take whatever steps are necessary to deal with this threat and keep our country safe."

Explaining Mr Cameron's dilemma, Sky's Chief Political Correspondent Jon Craig said: "He tried to get a vote in Parliament last year on missile strikes on Syria.

"Thirty or so Conservative MPs voted against, as did Labour, and he lost the vote. He was humiliated. So he doesn't particularly want to go down that route again."

US Secretary of State John Kerry, who is also in Paris and has been touring the Middle East to rally support, told CBS: "We have countries in this region, countries outside of this region, in addition to the United States, all of whom are prepared to engage in military assistance, in actual strikes if that is what it requires."

However, Iraq's president has said it is "not necessary" for Arab powers to join airstrikes against Islamic State.


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PM: We Will 'Hunt Down' David Haines' Killers

David Cameron has vowed that Britain will "hunt down" those responsible for the murder of British aid worker David Haines and bring them to justice.

Speaking from Downing Street after chairing a meeting of Cobra, Mr Cameron described Islamic State extremists as "monsters" who are part of a "fanatical organisation".

"We will hunt down those responsible and bring them to justice, no matter how long it takes," Mr Cameron said.

"David Haines was an aid worker. He went into harm's way, not to harm people but to help his fellow human beings in the hour of their direst need, from the Balkans to the Middle East.

"David Haines was a British hero. The fact that an aid worker was taken, held and brutally murdered at the hand of Islamic State sums up what this organisation stands for.

Jihadist who appears in video with David Haines A man wearing black addresses David Cameron in the video

"They boast of their brutality. They claim to do this in the name of Islam. That is nonsense - Islam is a religion of peace."

Earlier in the day Mr Cameron held emergency talks with senior representatives of the military, the security services, the Foreign Office and the Home Office.

He returned to Downing Street shortly after midnight when IS released a video which showed Mr Haines' death.

Government sources say the death will not change Britain's policy and Parliament will not be recalled.

But Mr Cameron said Britain's security depends upon taking action against the extremists.

DO NOT RESIZE. Photo of David Haines. Pic credit: Lance Baldwin Mr Haines has been described as a 'British hero' (Pic: Lance Baldwin)

"It must strengthen our resolve. We must recognise that it will take time to eradicate a threat like this. It will require, as I have described, action at home and abroad," he said.

"This is not something we can do on our own. We have to work with the rest of the world.

"Ultimately, our security as a nation, the way we go about our everyday lives in this free and tolerant society that is Britain, has always depended on our readiness to act against those who stand for hatred and who stand for destruction."

David Haines Mr Haines was taken hostage in Syria last year

The footage of Mr Haines' death shows a knife-wielding militant who speaks with a British accent.

The clip also includes a threat to kill a second hostage, later named as Alan Henning, who was a volunteer on an aid convoy.

In the video, Mr Haines looks into the camera and makes a statement, holding Mr Cameron responsible for his own "execution".

In the statement, which appears to have been made under duress, he said: "You entered voluntarily into a coalition with the United States against the Islamic State just as your predecessor Tony Blair did, following a trend against our British prime ministers who can't find the courage to say 'no' to the Americans.

"Unfortunately it is we the British public that in the end will pay the price for our Parliament's selfish decisions."

David Cameron returns to Downing Street Mr Cameron returned to Downing Street for crisis talks

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "All the signs are that the video is genuine. We have no reason to believe it is not."

The aid agency that Mr Haines was working for when he was taken hostage in 2013 said it was "appalled and horrified" by the killing.

"ACTED strongly condemns with the utmost of force these crimes. In this tragic moment, our thoughts are with his family, friends and loved ones," the agency said.

The killing comes just weeks after American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff were beheaded by Islamic State (IS). Those deaths were also filmed, and the videos were released on the internet.


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British Tourists Found Dead On Thailand Beach

The naked bodies of two British tourists who had apparently been attacked with a hoe have been found on a beach, police have said.

The victims - believed to be a 23-year-old woman and 24-year-old man - were found with gruesome head wounds on a rocky beach on Koh Tao, an island in Surat Thani province known for its diving sites and stunning beaches.

The victims' clothes and a hoe with blood stains were found nearby, Colonel Prachum Ruangthong from Thailand's police force said.

Police suspect the two were slain with the hoe, leaving deep wounds on their heads.

Koh Tao island The island is a four hour boat trip from the Thai mainland

The pair were at a party on Sunday night 100m from where their bodies were found, Sky sources understand.

Investigators have been checking CCTV footage from nearby restaurants, hotels and shops for clues, Col Prachum said.

It is unclear whether either victim had been sexually assaulted.

Police are understood to be in the process of contacting the victims' families.

The Foreign Office has said it is aware of the reports and is urgently looking into them. 

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Cameron Faces Biggest International Dilemma

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 14 September 2014 | 16.12

Widespread Revulsion Over Briton's Beheading

Updated: 10:09am UK, Sunday 14 September 2014

Politicians and community leaders have joined together to condemn the murder of British aid worker David Haines.

Prime Minister David Cameron and Labour leader Ed Miliband put out tweets soon after news broke at around 11.25pm on Saturday that the Foreign Office were trying to verify a video that had emerged on the internet showed Mr Haines being beheaded.

Mr Cameron said: "The murder of David Haines is an act of pure evil. My heart goes out to his family who have shown extraordinary courage and fortitude."

Mr Miliband said: "I am sickened at the disgusting, barbaric killing of David Haines."

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said it was "a crime of the most horrendous kind".

"This murderous organisation calls itself Islamic State. But it is not a state, it is a brutal terrorist outfit whose actions are an affront to every peace loving Muslim around the world." 

Alex Salmond, First Minister of Mr Haines' native Scotland, said in a statement: "His murder will be totally condemned by all people with any sense of humanity.

"Our thoughts, sympathies and prayers are with the family members and friends of Mr Haines."

Peter Wishart, the MP for Perth, where Mr Haines once lived, said: "Perth feels a much diminished place this morning with the news of the brutal, appalling death of its brave, selfless son, David Haines."

US President Barack Obama said in a statement: "The United States strongly condemns the barbaric murder of UK citizen David Haines.

"Our hearts go out to the family of Mr Haines and to the people of the United Kingdom. The United States stands shoulder to shoulder tonight with our close friend and ally in grief and resolve.

"We will work with the United Kingdom and a broad coalition of nations from the region and around the world to bring the perpetrators of this outrageous act to justice, and to degrade and destroy this threat to the people of our countries, the region and the world."

The US is working to build an international coalition to target the Islamic State militants who carried out the killing of Mr Haines, as well as US journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff.

Muslim community leaders said the acts of IS do not represent the faith and highlighted that many other victims of the group have been Muslims themselves.

Mohammed Shafiq, chief executive of the Ramadhan Foundation, said: "In the coming days we need to come together as a nation to stand in solidarity with David's family and resolute in our determination to defeat terrorism. Whatever the costs or sacrifices we will defeat terrorism."

Dr Qari Asim, imam of the Makkah Mosque in Leeds and a leading Sunni scholar, said: "This vile and unwarranted terrorist attack is the actions of cowards and I condemn it completely.

"An attack on a British citizen is an attack on Britain and we raise our voices as a community united to deplore the actions of the terrorists ISIS."

Sayed Ali Abbas Razawi, joint secretary of the Majlis-e-Ulama, which represents the majority of Shia Muslims in the United Kingdom and Europe, said: "I condemn wholeheartedly this deplorable act of despicable violence.

"Our whole nation has been shocked and devastated by this act of utter terrorism. ISIS hides behind its false interpretation of Islam, claiming to kill in the name of Islam and we reject this unreservedly, they are criminals and villains."

Shaukat Warriach, founder of Imamsonline.com and chief executive of Faith Associates, an organisation which works with Imams and mosques across the UK, said: "We are all Britons, united in our grief and anger and deplore the actions of ISIS.

"The holy Quran says: 'the taking of one innocent life is like taking all of Mankind'; the attack on one of our citizens is an attack on all of us."

Mr Haines' former employer Nonviolent Peaceforce said in a statement: "Nonviolent Peaceforce (NP) is deeply saddened by the murder of our friend and former colleague.

"David served NP in South Sudan in 2012 and was known and beloved by many of us. He protected people under threat with courageous determination whilst always demonstrating a sense of humility and where required humour. We are outraged by his brutal murder."


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Brother: David 'Helped Whoever Needed Help'

David Haines' brother has paid tribute to the aid worker, describing him as "just another bloke" who "helped whoever needed help".

Mike Haines released a statement through the Foreign Office in which he describes his brother's life and work and also says how much he will be "terribly" missed.

The statement says: "My name is Mike Haines, I am brother to David Haines, who was recently murdered in cold blood.

"David was like so very many of us, just another bloke.

"Born in 1970 to parents who loved us both, our childhood was centred around our family.

"Holidays in caravans and tents, days away as a family which we remember fondly. David and I were brought up to know right from wrong, although we might not with the innocence of youth have always chosen right.

"David was a good brother, there when I needed him and absent when I didn't. I hope that he felt the same way about me.

"He was, in the right mood, the life and soul of the party and on other times the most stubborn irritating pain in the ass. He would probably say the same about me.

A British UN Protection Force armoured vehicle in Bosnia Mr Haines served with the UN in the Balkans

"After leaving school he worked with the Royal Mail before joining the RAF as an aircraft engineer.

"He married his childhood sweetheart Louise and in the due process of time had a wee lass Bethany. He was - and no doubt wherever he is - exceptionally proud of Bethany.

"David served with the UN in the Balkans, helping people in real need. There are many accolades from people in that region that David helped. He helped whoever needed help, regardless of race, creed or religion.

"During this time David began to decide that humanitarian work was the field he wanted to work in.

"David left the RAF and was employed by Scotrail. As with every job, David entered into it with enthusiasm. David met and married his second wife Dragana and they have a four-year-old daughter Athea.

"David was most alive and enthusiastic in his humanitarian roles. His joy and anticipation for the work he went to do in Syria is for myself and family the most important element of this whole sad affair.

"He was and is loved by all his family and will be missed terribly."

The statement ended with the Foreign Office saying that the family have asked for privacy.


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Hostage David Haines' Murder 'Evil', PM Says

David Cameron has condemned the beheading of British aid worker David Haines by Islamic State, describing it as an "act of pure evil".

A video released by the militant organisation shows 44-year-old father of two Mr Haines being murdered.

In a statement put out by Downing Street, Mr Cameron says: "This is a despicable and appalling murder of an innocent aid worker. It is an act of pure evil.

"My heart goes out to the family of David Haines who have shown extraordinary courage and fortitude throughout this ordeal.

"We will do everything in our power to hunt down these murderers and ensure they face justice, however long it takes."

Mr Haines' brother Mike said his sibling was "just another bloke" who "helped whoever needed help" until he was murdered "in cold blood".

David Cameron returns to Downing Street David Cameron returned to Downing Street with his head bowed

Mr Haines was thought to have been held captive by militant group Islamic State after being kidnapped from a Syrian refugee camp near the border with Turkey last year.

Mr Cameron has returned to Downing Street and will chair a Cobra meeting today at 10am with representatives from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the Ministry of Defence and the Home Office.

The release of the video came hours after Mr Haines' family urged his captors to contact them.

In the video, the victim looks into the camera and makes a statement, holding Mr Cameron responsible for his own "execution".

In the statement, which appears to have been made under duress, he said: "You entered voluntarily into a coalition with the United States against the Islamic State just as your predecessor Tony Blair did, following a trend against our British prime ministers who can't find the courage to say 'no' to the Americans.

"Unfortunately it is we the British public that in the end will pay the price for our Parliament's selfish decisions."

Jihadist who appears in video with David Haines A man dressed in black addresses David Cameron in the video

A spokesperson from the FCO said: "All the signs are that the video is genuine. We have no reason to believe it is not."

The killing comes just weeks after American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff were beheaded by Islamic State (IS). Those deaths were also filmed, and the videos were released on the internet.

In the new video, a man dressed in black stood behind Mr Haines. The man seemed to speak with an English accent.

After Mr Haines finished his statement, the man said: "This British man has to pay the price for your promise, Cameron, to arm the peshmerga against the Islamic State.

"Your evil alliance with America which continues to strike the Muslims of Iraq and most recently bombed the Haditha Dam will only accelerate your destruction."

David Haines David Haines worked as an aid worker

"If you, Cameron, persist in fighting the Islamic State then you like your master Obama will have the blood of your people on your hands."

Another man who Sky News is not naming, said by IS to be British, then appears at the end of the video and is threatened with being killed.

The Foreign Office said Mr Haines' family wished to be left alone.

US President Barack Obama has put out a statement saying: "Our hearts go out to the family of Mr Haines and to the people of the United Kingdom.

"The United States stands shoulder to shoulder tonight with our close friend and ally in grief and resolve."

France strongly condemned the murder and called for an international mobilisation to fight the Islamist group.

"The heinous murder of David Haines shows once again how the international community must mobilise against Daesh," the French presidency said in statement, referring to the Arabic acronym for IS.

The murders have prompted a number of commentators to call for swift and firm action. Former head of the Army Lord Dannatt said the UK should respond by playing its role in the assault against IS promised by Mr Obama.

"What we absolutely need to do is not be cowed in any way by yet another foul murder of a hostage," he said.


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