BBC在线收听下载:缅甸政府宣布精简政府规模

短语讲解：

1. But the tough policies have been widely criticized by human rights groups as well as the United Nations.

as well as 也，又
例句：Boys as well as girls are taught cookery in school these days.
现在学校里男女学生都学烹饪。

2. Last year, in response to that criticism, Australia agreed to take in an additional 12,000 Syrian refugees through legitimate channels.

agree to 同意， 赞成， 同意照办
例句：We cannot agree to consign the goods.
我们不同意寄售此货。

3. Mr Obama wants Britain to stay in the EU. A referendum on Britain's membership takes place in June.

take place 发生，举行
例句：His graduation will never take place if he doesn't get to work.
如果他不下功夫，就永远不会毕业。

4. The letter which has been sent to the White House warns the president that interfering in the issue would be an unfortunate milestone at the end of his term in office.

at the end of 在…结尾，在…末端
例句：At the end of the concert, the audience stood and clapped.
音乐会结束时，观众起立鼓掌。

5. Over the next few days, the names of the new ministers are expected to be announced.

be expected to 被期待做某事; 有望做某事; 期许
例句：I shall be expected to shell out the money for the party.
我将要支付这个集会的费用。