Plan to suspend UK Parliament weeks before Brexit approved

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II has approved a request by its Prime Minister Boris Johnson to suspend parliament from the middle of next month.

In a move prompting a furious political row there, the UK parliament will be suspended in the week beginning September 9th until October 14th.

This is the date on which a new 'Queen's speech' - a traditional event which details the legislative agenda of the parliament - will be held.

Coveney says "no amount of political grandstanding" can shift blame for no-deal Brexit

The Tánaiste has warned that "no amount of political grandstanding" can change the fact that a no-deal Brexit will only happen if the UK Government chooses it.

Simon Coveney was delivering a speech in France after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson moved to suspend the UK Parliament with just weeks to go before the Brexit deadline.

Speaking in France this afternoon, Simon Coveney said the EU remains committed to exploring alternative arrangements to the Brexit border backstop, " in the future, or now, if and when they exist."

Ireland to expand presence in 'nearest EU neighbour after Brexit' France

The Irish Government has announced plans to expand the country's footprint in France.

It is part of a new strategy for France between now and 2025.

Tánaiste Simon Coveney held bilateral talks with French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe in Paris on Wednesday.

High Court grants permission to bring proceedings against meat plant protester

Dawn Meats has been granted permission to bring attachment and committal proceedings against a protester at a meat plant back to the High Court on Friday.

It comes after farmers continued to block access to factories, despite a High Court injunction stopping them from protesting.

The pickets have stemmed from a row over beef prices.

M&S to change name of 'Porn Star Martini' following complaint

Retailer Marks & Spencer has been told to change the name its Porn Star Martini, following a complaint.

The complainant was concerned that the product uses the word 'Porn Star' links the alcoholic product to sexual success.

This is because 'porn stars' are idolised as people who have sexual success and are paid for doing so, the complaint claims.

Main image: Anti-Brexit supporters take part in a protest in front of the Houses of Parliament in London | Image: Vudi Xhymshiti/AP/Press Association Images