thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Teacher in coronavirus-ravaged China says there's light at end of the tunnel

An Irish teacher living in China says the lockdown system in Wuhan has been effective as shopping malls , restaurants and shops re-open after seven weeks of quarantine .
Katie Hayes , a kindergarten teacher from Cork , has been self-isolating for almost two months with her mother and sister in Harbin in the north , around four hours by plane to Wuhan .
The 27-year-old told Cork 's Red FM that China is starting to come out of the coronavirus crisis and encouraged people to have faith in the lockdown system , claiming “ it does work ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot better .
Today is the first day that malls , shops and restaurants have opened again .
We can go out of the complex now everyday , there ’ s no monitoring of our movements .
“ Secondary schools and universities will probably open around the third week of March , but kindergartens won ’ t be open until maybe the middle of April ” .
In total , China has had more than 80,000 confirmed cases and suffered over 3,000 deaths .
But the country is finally seeing light at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 24 hours saw just 13 new cases ( a stark contrast from Italy ’ s 4,207 ) which Katie says is down to foreigners bringing the virus back to China .
“ We had 198 confirmed cases in Harbin , and now we have 178 treated so once the confirmed and treated match up we ’ ll be virus-free .
“ Nationally , the numbers are reducing , but in the last week , there 've been foreigners coming into Beijing and Shanghai and they have brought back the virus with them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ onwards anyone coming in from any country to China has to be self-quarantined for 14 days .
Before , it was only for affected countries like Italy , Japan , Korea but now it ’ s for anywhere outside China.
” So just how did China manage to turn themselves from the epicentre of the coronavirus , with several thousand new cases per day at its worst , to near total eradication ?
According to Katie , the answer is simple : Lockdown .
“ Ireland needs to shut the country down , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faster , ” Katie advised .
“ Harbin had 198 cases but for the last two-three weeks we haven ’ t had any new cases so lockdown does work , it is working and it has worked .
There ’ s proof of it here in China.
” In China , all citizens are required to use an app that tracks their location at all times .
Now , before entering a store , a mall or any business , citizens scan their phone on a QR code located at the entrance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the country over the past 14 days and gives them a green or red tick for entry .
“ People need to realise that if you put the country on lockdown it ’ s actually ok.
It ’ s not going to do damage .
To keep the elderly and vulnerable people safe , going on lockdown is the best thing you can do.
” The debate as to whether face masks do more harm than good has been continuing since this epidemic emerged .
The HSE have repeatedly advised that face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are healthy .
In contrast , Chinese people have been known to wear masks for even the earliest of cold symptoms , ever since the SARS epidemic swept through the nation in the early 2000s .
“ All my Chinese friends have been asking me ‘ why are people abroad not wearing masks ?
’ .
`` I ’ m reading online that supposedly they don ’ t work and you can still get sick if you wear a mask .
“ In China , we have to , legally , wear masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the place not wearing any masks , we can get arrested and put in 14-day quarantine or jail .
Katie was also clear to point out that while her country is right to be commended for stopping the spread of the virus so quickly , the world should not forget that the virus originated in China by consuming wild animals .
Katie said while the eating of wild animals has since been banned in certain Chinese cities , the world shouldn ’ t forget how this mess started to ensure something like @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Katie Hayes, 27, who lives in China, is urging people to have faith in the lockdown system as the country begins to open social spaces
Teacher in coronavirus-ravaged China says there's light at end of the tunnel
An Irish teacher living in China says the lockdown system in Wuhan has been effective as shopping malls, restaurants and shops re-open after seven weeks of quarantine.
Katie Hayes, a kindergarten teacher from Cork, has been self-isolating for almost two months with her mother and sister in Harbin in the north, around four hours by plane to Wuhan.
The 27-year-old told Cork's Red FM that China is starting to come out of the coronavirus crisis and encouraged people to have faith in the lockdown system, claiming “it does work”.
“It’s been a long, long, looong seven weeks," RSVP Live reports.
“But it’s getting a lot better. Today is the first day that malls, shops and restaurants have opened again. We can go out of the complex now everyday, there’s no monitoring of our movements.
“Secondary schools and universities will probably open around the third week of March, but kindergartens won’t be open until maybe the middle of April”.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
In total, China has had more than 80,000 confirmed cases and suffered over 3,000 deaths. But the country is finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel.
The last 24 hours saw just 13 new cases (a stark contrast from Italy’s 4,207) which Katie says is down to foreigners bringing the virus back to China.
“We had 198 confirmed cases in Harbin, and now we have 178 treated so once the confirmed and treated match up we’ll be virus-free.
“Nationally, the numbers are reducing, but in the last week, there've been foreigners coming into Beijing and Shanghai and they have brought back the virus with them.
“I read online that from tonight onwards anyone coming in from any country to China has to be self-quarantined for 14 days. Before, it was only for affected countries like Italy, Japan, Korea but now it’s for anywhere outside China.”
Image: JEROME FAVRE/EPA-EFE/REX) JEROME FAVRE/EPA-EFE/REX)
So just how did China manage to turn themselves from the epicentre of the coronavirus, with several thousand new cases per day at its worst, to near total eradication? According to Katie, the answer is simple: Lockdown.
“Ireland needs to shut the country down, otherwise it’s going to spread faster,” Katie advised.
“Harbin had 198 cases but for the last two-three weeks we haven’t had any new cases so lockdown does work, it is working and it has worked. There’s proof of it here in China.”
In China, all citizens are required to use an app that tracks their location at all times. Now, before entering a store, a mall or any business, citizens scan their phone on a QR code located at the entrance, that checks if they have been out of the country over the past 14 days and gives them a green or red tick for entry.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
“People need to realise that if you put the country on lockdown it’s actually ok. It’s not going to do damage. To keep the elderly and vulnerable people safe, going on lockdown is the best thing you can do.”
The debate as to whether face masks do more harm than good has been continuing since this epidemic emerged. The HSE have repeatedly advised that face masks are not necessary for people who are healthy.
In contrast, Chinese people have been known to wear masks for even the earliest of cold symptoms, ever since the SARS epidemic swept through the nation in the early 2000s.
“All my Chinese friends have been asking me ‘why are people abroad not wearing masks?’.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
"I’m reading online that supposedly they don’t work and you can still get sick if you wear a mask.
“In China, we have to, legally, wear masks. If we’re seen walking around the place not wearing any masks, we can get arrested and put in 14-day quarantine or jail.
Katie was also clear to point out that while her country is right to be commended for stopping the spread of the virus so quickly, the world should not forget that the virus originated in China by consuming wild animals.
Katie said while the eating of wild animals has since been banned in certain Chinese cities, the world shouldn’t forget how this mess started to ensure something like this doesn’t happen again.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Malin Andersson pens stunning poem for late baby girl ahead of Mother's Day

Malin Andersson has penned the most stunning poem dedicated to her late baby girl Consy .
The former Love Island star , 26 , was left devastated after her newborn baby passed away at just four weeks old after being born seven weeks premature .
Ahead of Mother 's Day , brave Malin wrote down her feelings about being a mother , and how she will always consider herself Consy 's mother , even if other people do n't .
Taking to Instagram to share her thought-provoking words with fans , the former Love Island star thanked TFL 's All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throughout the underground system .
Alongside a picture of a board with the poem hand-written on it , Malin wrote : `` This ones for the mumma ’ s that think they aren ’ t .
Thank you @ allontheboard for putting my poem up for this Sunday '' .
Malin 's touching poem read : `` I 'll always be your mum baby girl , no-one will ever take that away from me .
`` I 'll always be your mum baby girl , I know you 're up in heaven smiling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always be your mum baby girl , never forgetting the kicking in my stomach , and the way you used to spin .
`` I 'll always be your mum baby girl , always staying strong .
For whoever says I 'm not a mum ... is completely wrong '' .
After sharing the stunning poem , it was n't long before Malin 's fans rushed to share their love and compassion for her bravery .
One grateful follower shared : `` Needed this today .
We 're in self isolation until the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3rd Birthday/angelversary on the 30th .
My hearts been breaking knowing we ca n't do anything special to remember him this year '' .
Another mother who shares Malin 's experience explained : `` No matter what , we will always be their Mummies , and they will always be our babies '' .
`` Bless you and your angel baby girl sweetheart '' a third wrote .
It did n't stop there though as more adoring fans insisted that the former Love Island star was nothing but an inspiration to them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are such a strong woman , going through more than most could deal with '' .
`` Your baby girl is always yours and you always hers .
You should be so proud of yourself .
You 're an inspiration to us all '' .
Another echoed : `` Malin , you ’ re a true lighthouse .
Thank you so much for this you special lady '' .
Consy-Gloria , named after Malin ’ s late mother who passed away from stomach cancer in November 2017 , was born with a rare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left the TV star `` empty .
Speaking candidly about her daughters passing , Malin previously told OK !
Magazine : `` I played with her hands and feet while she was in the incubator , but I couldn ’ t hold her .
I also got involved in nappy changes and was expressing [ breast milk ] so that she could have my milk .
`` She was 4lb 8oz , so too small for surgery .
All I could do was hope for a miracle . ''
Malin recalled the day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she asked : `` Why me ? ''
`` We went to see her body in the morgue and she looked so peaceful but I still couldn ’ t hold her .
I ’ d carried a baby for seven months and then nothing .
I felt empty , I have a scar where my baby has been taken out of me but there is no baby .
`` I am a mum without a baby .
I couldn ’ t stop thinking , why me ? ''

The former Love Island star was left devastated after her baby girl passed away when she was just four weeks old after being born seven weeks premature
Malin Andersson has penned the most stunning poem dedicated to her late baby girl Consy.
The former Love Island star, 26, was left devastated after her newborn baby passed away at just four weeks old after being born seven weeks premature.
Ahead of Mother's Day, brave Malin wrote down her feelings about being a mother, and how she will always consider herself Consy's mother, even if other people don't.
Taking to Instagram to share her thought-provoking words with fans, the former Love Island star thanked TFL's All On The Board for sharing her poem throughout the underground system.
Alongside a picture of a board with the poem hand-written on it, Malin wrote: "This ones for the mumma’s that think they aren’t. Thank you @allontheboard for putting my poem up for this Sunday".
Image: missmalinsara/Instagram) missmalinsara/Instagram)
Malin's touching poem read: "I'll always be your mum baby girl, no-one will ever take that away from me.
"I'll always be your mum baby girl, I know you're up in heaven smiling and floating free.
"I'll always be your mum baby girl, never forgetting the kicking in my stomach, and the way you used to spin.
"I'll always be your mum baby girl, always staying strong. For whoever says I'm not a mum... is completely wrong".
Image: missmalinsara/Instagram) missmalinsara/Instagram)
After sharing the stunning poem, it wasn't long before Malin's fans rushed to share their love and compassion for her bravery.
One grateful follower shared: "Needed this today. We're in self isolation until the 31st and it's my baby boys 3rd Birthday/angelversary on the 30th. My hearts been breaking knowing we can't do anything special to remember him this year".
Another mother who shares Malin's experience explained: "No matter what, we will always be their Mummies, and they will always be our babies".
"Bless you and your angel baby girl sweetheart" a third wrote.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
It didn't stop there though as more adoring fans insisted that the former Love Island star was nothing but an inspiration to them.
"That's absolutely beautiful. You are such a strong woman, going through more than most could deal with".
"Your baby girl is always yours and you always hers. You should be so proud of yourself. You're an inspiration to us all".
Another echoed: "Malin, you’re a true lighthouse. Thank you so much for this you special lady".
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Consy-Gloria, named after Malin’s late mother who passed away from stomach cancer in November 2017, was born with a rare heart condition and her devastating death has left the TV star "empty.
Speaking candidly about her daughters passing, Malin previously told OK! Magazine: "I played with her hands and feet while she was in the incubator, but I couldn’t hold her. I also got involved in nappy changes and was expressing [breast milk] so that she could have my milk.
"She was 4lb 8oz, so too small for surgery. All I could do was hope for a miracle."
Malin recalled the day after baby Consy passed away, saying she asked: "Why me?"
"We went to see her body in the morgue and she looked so peaceful but I still couldn’t hold her. I’d carried a baby for seven months and then nothing. I felt empty, I have a scar where my baby has been taken out of me but there is no baby.
"I am a mum without a baby. I couldn’t stop thinking, why me?"


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Denise Van Outen's horrific Neighbours death in fireball leaves viewers stunned

Neighbours viewers were stunned tonight when Denise Van Outen 's character was killed in a fireball .
The Neighbours 35th anniversary special week claimed it 's first victim as Prue Wallace died in a dramatic explosion .
Prue was in tears as she desperately tried to reach Gary Canning to save their relationship and left an emotional message on his voicemail declaring her love .
She then left another tear-jerking message for Harlow , who was trying to rescue Bea on the island , blaming her for ruining her wedding but then wishing her happiness .
Prue said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll be pleased to know everything has fallen apart for me .
I ’ m lost in the middle of nowhere and don ’ t know where I am .
The wedding is off - congratulations .
I hope you ’ re happy .
I do hope you ’ re happy .
I do .
My little Lolo . ''
After getting lost , Prue then stopped her card and reached down to open the honeymoon package in the passenger seat .
She was hoping to grab a bottle of champagne but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As she opened up the gift it exploded and a massive fireball consumed the car .
Neighbours viewers took to Twitter after watching Prue 's explosive final scenes .
One viewer said : `` Omg so Prue had the bomb package , an interesting twist .
She has to be one of the deaths then and it makes sense she is the most disposable of characters . ''
A third said : `` Holy s*** Pru was blown up by the bomb !
!
! ''
There was still no sign of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after being attacked by Finn .
Finn slammed a rock over his head twice , before placing his body in a small boat and setting him off to sea - also breaking a hole in the boat so that Toadie would drown .
Is Toadie going to be the second death ?
Neighbours airs weekdays at 1:45pm and 5:30pm , with the late night specials all this week at 10pm on Channel 5 .

Is this the end for Toadie?
Is this the end for Toadie?
The Neighbours 35th anniversary special week claimed it's first victim as Prue Wallace was killed in a dramatic explosion
Neighbours viewers were stunned tonight when Denise Van Outen's character was killed in a fireball.
The Neighbours 35th anniversary special week claimed it's first victim as Prue Wallace died in a dramatic explosion.
Prue was in tears as she desperately tried to reach Gary Canning to save their relationship and left an emotional message on his voicemail declaring her love.
She then left another tear-jerking message for Harlow, who was trying to rescue Bea on the island, blaming her for ruining her wedding but then wishing her happiness.
Prue said: "If you ever listen to this you’ll be pleased to know everything has fallen apart for me. I’m lost in the middle of nowhere and don’t know where I am. The wedding is off - congratulations. I hope you’re happy. I do hope you’re happy. I do. My little Lolo."
Image: Channel 5) Channel 5) Image: Channel 5) Channel 5)
After getting lost, Prue then stopped her card and reached down to open the honeymoon package in the passenger seat.
She was hoping to grab a bottle of champagne but was in for a very nasty surprise.
As she opened up the gift it exploded and a massive fireball consumed the car.
Image: Channel 5) Channel 5)
Neighbours viewers took to Twitter after watching Prue's explosive final scenes.
One viewer said: "Omg so Prue had the bomb package, an interesting twist. She has to be one of the deaths then and it makes sense she is the most disposable of characters."
"Denise van Outta Here," added another.
A third said: "Holy s*** Pru was blown up by the bomb!!!"
Image: Channel 5) Channel 5) Image: Channel 5) Channel 5)
There was still no sign of Toadfish, who is presumed dead, after being attacked by Finn.
Finn slammed a rock over his head twice, before placing his body in a small boat and setting him off to sea - also breaking a hole in the boat so that Toadie would drown.
Is Toadie going to be the second death?
Neighbours airs weekdays at 1:45pm and 5:30pm, with the late night specials all this week at 10pm on Channel 5.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Exclusive: Martyn Rooney says postponing Tokyo Olympics is only fair to athletes

Martyn Rooney has vowed to run alone up hills and jump on and off boxes - if that is the only way to get him to the Olympics in shape .
But the two-time European champion says it would be preferable for Games chiefs to “ do what ’ s right for athletes ” in the face of the global coronavirus pandemic and postpone Tokyo 2020 .
Trying to train when facilities are closed , events cancelled and the country on the brink of total lockdown has become almost impossible , he warned .
Of greater concern to the 400 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now potentially dangerous - not only to the athletes , but to their families , coaches and support staff .
Rooney said : “ The International Olympic Committee ( IOC ) needs to make a clear call .
“ I know they are saying they ’ re going to wait and wait , but maybe just go for that delay .
Do what ’ s right for the athletes .
“ And it ’ s not just us .
It ’ s support staff like my coach , who has health issues and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us at the moment .
You can ’ t put people ’ s lives at risk.
” Alejandro Blanco , president of Spain ’ s Olympic Committee , added his influential voice to those calling for a postponement .
Blanco claimed the Games being allowed to start as scheduled on July 24 would be unfair on athletes unable to train as it `` would result in unequal conditions '' .
One of those is Katarina Johnson-Thompson , who complained that conflicting advice from Olympic organisers and politicians had made training “ impossible ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ no solution will be ideal in this situation ” and say for that reason “ we are counting on the responsibility and solidarity of the athletes ” .
Rooney , 32 , insists nobody is about to throw in the towel .
“ When my track closes I ’ ll go run some hills on my own , jump on and off boxes and do all those basic things , ” said the 2008 Beijing bronze medalist .
“ But is that going to be enough to get you ready for an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is nice to think you could just turn up to the Olympics and run fast straight away but it doesn ’ t work like that .
“ You need time and competitions in which to build .
You also need a definite date for which to aim .
Without one , how much motivation do you have to go through the horrible sessions ?
“ It ’ s not just that , ” Rooney added .
“ The news keeps reminding us you have to look after your family and elderly neighbours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get them ill. “ I don ’ t want to get my coach and physios ill .
I don ’ t want to risk spreading any illness unnecessarily .
At the end of the day we run for people ’ s pleasure .
It ’ s kind of entertainment .
The IOC says it is committed to finding a solution with the “ least negative ” impact for the competitors .
But given what she termed “ the state of humanity ” , IOC member Hayley Wickenheiser branded the organisation 's conviction that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and irresponsible ” .

“I don’t want to get my coach and physios ill. I don’t want to risk spreading any illness unnecessarily. At the end of the day we run for people’s pleasure. It’s kind of entertainment. Is that essential? Not really”
Martyn Rooney has vowed to run alone up hills and jump on and off boxes - if that is the only way to get him to the Olympics in shape.
But the two-time European champion says it would be preferable for Games chiefs to “do what’s right for athletes” in the face of the global coronavirus pandemic and postpone Tokyo 2020.
Trying to train when facilities are closed, events cancelled and the country on the brink of total lockdown has become almost impossible, he warned.
Of greater concern to the 400 metres star is that it is also now potentially dangerous - not only to the athletes, but to their families, coaches and support staff.
Image: Aflo/REX) Aflo/REX)
Rooney said: “The International Olympic Committee (IOC) needs to make a clear call.
“I know they are saying they’re going to wait and wait, but maybe just go for that delay. Do what’s right for the athletes.
“And it’s not just us. It’s support staff like my coach, who has health issues and is not allowed to be anywhere near us at the moment. You can’t put people’s lives at risk.”
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Alejandro Blanco, president of Spain’s Olympic Committee, added his influential voice to those calling for a postponement.
Blanco claimed the Games being allowed to start as scheduled on July 24 would be unfair on athletes unable to train as it "would result in unequal conditions".
One of those is Katarina Johnson-Thompson, who complained that conflicting advice from Olympic organisers and politicians had made training “impossible” for her.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
The IOC concede that “no solution will be ideal in this situation” and say for that reason “we are counting on the responsibility and solidarity of the athletes”.
Rooney, 32, insists nobody is about to throw in the towel.
“When my track closes I’ll go run some hills on my own, jump on and off boxes and do all those basic things,” said the 2008 Beijing bronze medalist.
“But is that going to be enough to get you ready for an Olympic Games? Probably not.
Image: Getty) Getty)
“It is nice to think you could just turn up to the Olympics and run fast straight away but it doesn’t work like that.
“You need time and competitions in which to build. You also need a definite date for which to aim. Without one, how much motivation do you have to go through the horrible sessions?
“It’s not just that,” Rooney added. “The news keeps reminding us you have to look after your family and elderly neighbours, you don’t want to get them ill.
Image: Getty) Getty)
“I don’t want to get my coach and physios ill. I don’t want to risk spreading any illness unnecessarily. At the end of the day we run for people’s pleasure. It’s kind of entertainment.
“Is that essential? Not really.”
The IOC says it is committed to finding a solution with the “least negative” impact for the competitors.
But given what she termed “the state of humanity”, IOC member Hayley Wickenheiser branded the organisation's conviction that the Games would go ahead "insensitive and irresponsible”.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--'Act fast to save jobs as 200,00 people become unemployed amid coronavirus'

An estimated 200,000 people have lost their jobs since the virus struck .
This number could easily quadruple if there is no urgent action from the Government .
Boris Johnson may have acted with the best intentions but telling people to avoid pubs , restaurants and other meeting places has been a disaster for the retail and hospitality sectors .
The Government is promising to announce a package of support in the next few days to protect workers during this challenging time .
A better course would have been to have put these measures in place at the same time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not just an economic priority but a social one .
Many low-paid workers may face the choice of losing their income if they stay at home or soldiering on to work where they risk either falling ill or infecting others .
We should be following the example of Denmark , Norway and Austria where the state has agreed to underwrite the cost of salaries making sure people stay in work .
Next , the Government must raise sick pay and improve support for the two million who earn too little to be entitled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefits , end the five week wait for Universal Credit and offer support for those most in need .
The virus does not discriminate so the Government should not discriminate in who it helps .
In a bow to the inevitable yesterday it announced schools will close from tomorrow .
This is not a decision taken lightly when it will cause disruption to millions .
But ministers urgently need to explain how students will be assessed now exams have been cancelled .
They also need to set out how the reduced service for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will support children on free school meals or with special needs .
Many parents will struggle with childcare , especially as turning to grandparents is not an option .
They need more help and guidance .
Experts predict most household chores will be done by robots by 2040 .
Couples will have to argue over who changes the batteries ...

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Voice of the Mirror)

The Government caused unnecessary panic dragging its heels on revealing package of support to protect workers while instructing people to miss employment to isolate
Voice of the Mirror: Act fast to save jobs as 200,00 people become unemployed
An estimated 200,000 people have lost their jobs since the virus struck.
This number could easily quadruple if there is no urgent action from the Government.
Boris Johnson may have acted with the best intentions but telling people to avoid pubs, restaurants and other meeting places has been a disaster for the retail and hospitality sectors.
The Government is promising to announce a package of support in the next few days to protect workers during this challenging time.
A better course would have been to have put these measures in place at the same time as the new guidelines. This is not just an economic priority but a social one.
Many low-paid workers may face the choice of losing their income if they stay at home or soldiering on to work where they risk either falling ill or infecting others.
Image: PA) PA)
We should be following the example of Denmark, Norway and Austria where the state has agreed to underwrite the cost of salaries making sure people stay in work.
Next, the Government must raise sick pay and improve support for the two million who earn too little to be entitled to it.
Ministers must also raise benefits, end the five week wait for Universal Credit and offer support for those most in need. The virus does not discriminate so the Government should not discriminate in who it helps.
In a bow to the inevitable yesterday it announced schools will close from tomorrow. This is not a decision taken lightly when it will cause disruption to millions.
Image: CAMERA PRESS/TPG) CAMERA PRESS/TPG)
But ministers urgently need to explain how students will be assessed now exams have been cancelled. They also need to set out how the reduced service for key workers will work and how they will support children on free school meals or with special needs.
Many parents will struggle with childcare, especially as turning to grandparents is not an option. They need more help and guidance.
Row botics...
Experts predict most household chores will be done by robots by 2040.
Couples will have to argue over who changes the batteries...


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Friends reunion special 'delayed due to coronavirus pandemic' by HBO Max

The reunion special for Friends has reportedly been delayed due to the coronavirus crisis .
A source has revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that the classic US sitcom 's unscripted episode has been pushed back by its home streaming service HBO Max and studio Warner Bros .
It was set to film on March 23 and 24 .
The publication noted : `` A formal filming date has not yet been determined as it 's unclear when any programming will be able to resume production . ''
The special episode would have seen core cast members David Schwimmer , Jennifer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Matt Le Blanc , and Matthew Perry reunite together on screen for the first time since the show ended .
It was reported by the publication that the stars would be paid $ 2.5 million and $ 3 million for their participation in the episode .
The release of the show would have launched the HBO Max streaming service in the US , being accompanied by the entire series of Friends upon its start date .
The new show is being executive produced by the six cast members too and will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Stage 24 of the Warner Bros .
Studio .
HBO Max is said to still be intending to launch in May despite th issues caused by the international health crisis .
The Friends reunion special follows a long line of shows to be delayed as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic that is sweeping the globe .
The UK death toll has risen to 104 following the death of 32 people in the last 24 hours .
London remains the epicentre of the country ’ s outbreak , with 10 deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with fatalities jumping by 46 per cent in a single day .
The number of positive test results for the virus has jumped from 1,950 to 2,626 .
Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033 .

The reunion special for classic American sitcom Friends has reportedly been delayed by the coronavirus pandemic by HBO Max and Warner Bros.
The reunion special for Friends has reportedly been delayed due to the coronavirus crisis.
A source has revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that the classic US sitcom's unscripted episode has been pushed back by its home streaming service HBO Max and studio Warner Bros.
It was set to film on March 23 and 24.
The publication noted: "A formal filming date has not yet been determined as it's unclear when any programming will be able to resume production."
The special episode would have seen core cast members David Schwimmer, Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt Le Blanc, and Matthew Perry reunite together on screen for the first time since the show ended.
Image: NBCUniversal via Getty Images) NBCUniversal via Getty Images)
It was reported by the publication that the stars would be paid $2.5 million and $3 million for their participation in the episode.
The release of the show would have launched the HBO Max streaming service in the US, being accompanied by the entire series of Friends upon its start date.
The new show is being executive produced by the six cast members too and will be shot on the classic series' lot of Stage 24 of the Warner Bros. Studio.
Image: Internet Unknown) Internet Unknown)
HBO Max is said to still be intending to launch in May despite th issues caused by the international health crisis.
The Friends reunion special follows a long line of shows to be delayed as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic that is sweeping the globe.
The UK death toll has risen to 104 following the death of 32 people in the last 24 hours.
London remains the epicentre of the country’s outbreak, with 10 deaths in the English capital alone today, with fatalities jumping by 46 per cent in a single day.
The number of positive test results for the virus has jumped from 1,950 to 2,626.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Former PM Gordon Brown tells businesses not to axe staff amid coronavirus crisis

A former Prime Minister and the new Governor of the Bank of England have told businesses : “ Do not fire your staff.
” As Nissan shut its Sunderland plant , the pound and FTSE 100 slumped , and the hospitality trade warned of collapse , former Labour PM Gordon Brown urged Boris Johnson to follow other countries to avoid mass unemployment .
While welcoming the £330billion package announced on Tuesday , Mr Brown said the Government should send a message to employers : “ Do not fire your workers .
“ Let ’ s find a way to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Denmark and Sweden are protecting earnings , Italy has blocked redundancies and even Donald Trump is planning to send Americans $ 1,000 cheques .
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak has not made business grants and loans on offer conditional on workers being kept on .
In an article for the Mirror , Mr Brown said it was “ absolutely right ” for the Government to give zero interest rate business loans , a grants rates holiday and tax deferrals .
He said : “ In a crisis , governments have to act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice from accountants will be to balance the books even if that means making workers redundant.
” Bank of England boss Andrew Bailey appealed to firms to think twice before firing staff .
He urged employers : “ Stop , look at what ’ s available , come and talk to us.
” He has not ruled out handing money directly to households and businesses to cope with the crisis .
Mr Bailey said : “ Everything is on the table that is reasonable ” .
Millions of tenants were thrown a lifeline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on evictions announced .
A mortgage payment holiday will , at the same time , help landlords .
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said : “ No renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home.
” At PMQs yesterday , Mr Johnson pledged : “ We will be bringing forward further measures to support workers of all kinds through this crisis.
” Ministers are meeting unions and business groups to discuss such new measures , but they are expected to stick to mechanisms already in place , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Credit .
The Mirror today sets out its demands for action to protect workers .
They include guaranteed wages for millions of staff , with any financial help for firms linked to their support for their workers .
The promised statutory sick pay must be at living wage level and there must be an immediate increase in benefit payments and an end to the five-week wait for Universal Credit .
There must also be direct help for foodbanks , and tax credits for the self-employed based on the last three years ’ earnings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government was working “ at pace ” to help workers , but admitted that given the scale of the challenge they would not be “ perfectly targeted ” .
On another torrid day for stock markets across the world , the FTSE 100 slumped 214 points and the pound fell more than 4 % against the dollar , to $ 1.15 , its second lowest since 1985. Business Secretary Alok Sharma insisted ministers were already working on plans to help those at risk .
He said : “ I know this is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They are concerned about their livelihoods .
“ The Prime Minister has been clear that we will do whatever it takes to protect people ’ s health , to protect people ’ s livelihoods.
” But Kate Nicholls , of trade body UKHospitality , said : “ Businesses are laying off tens of thousands of staff because they have no income.
” She said the sector was suffering before the outbreak hit , with 150,000 to 200,000 staff laid off since January .
She added : “ Most of those will have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will only have been short , and could have been a few days.
” Selfridges has temporarily closed its stores , but staff will still be paid .
Pret a Manger said there were no changes to “ pay policies ” , even though some branches have shut .
All McDonald ’ s are now takeaways , drive-thrus and delivery operations , with no seating available .
Energy suppliers and the Government have launched an an emergency package to help vulnerable customers .
Those with pre-payment meters who are unable to leave home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ post .
Customers who can not afford their bills will get support from suppliers .

The former Prime Minister, who oversaw the UK's response to the 2008 financial crisis, welcomed the £330bn package for businesses and says staff should be kept "ready for the recovery”
A former Prime Minister and the new Governor of the Bank of England have told businesses: “Do not fire your staff.”
As Nissan shut its Sunderland plant, the pound and FTSE 100 slumped, and the hospitality trade warned of collapse, former Labour PM Gordon Brown urged Boris Johnson to follow other countries to avoid mass unemployment.
While welcoming the £330billion package announced on Tuesday, Mr Brown said the Government should send a message to employers: “Do not fire your workers.
“Let’s find a way to keep them on – ready for the recovery."
Denmark and Sweden are protecting earnings, Italy has blocked redundancies and even Donald Trump is planning to send Americans $1,000 cheques.
Image: Andy Commins / Daily Mirror) Andy Commins / Daily Mirror)
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak has not made business grants and loans on offer conditional on workers being kept on.
In an article for the Mirror, Mr Brown said it was “absolutely right” for the Government to give zero interest rate business loans, a grants rates holiday and tax deferrals.
He said: “In a crisis, governments have to act – but everyone knows that the play-safe advice from accountants will be to balance the books even if that means making workers redundant.”
Bank of England boss Andrew Bailey appealed to firms to think twice before firing staff. He urged employers: “Stop, look at what’s available, come and talk to us.”
He has not ruled out handing money directly to households and businesses to cope with the crisis.
Mr Bailey said: “Everything is on the table that is reasonable”.
Millions of tenants were thrown a lifeline last night, with a three-month ban on evictions announced.
A mortgage payment holiday will, at the same time, help landlords. Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “No renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home.”
At PMQs yesterday, Mr Johnson pledged: “We will be bringing forward further measures to support workers of all kinds through this crisis.”
Ministers are meeting unions and business groups to discuss such new measures, but they are expected to stick to mechanisms already in place, such as statutory sick pay and Universal Credit. The Mirror today sets out its demands for action to protect workers.
They include guaranteed wages for millions of staff, with any financial help for firms linked to their support for their workers.
The promised statutory sick pay must be at living wage level and there must be an immediate increase in benefit payments and an end to the five-week wait for Universal Credit.
There must also be direct help for foodbanks, and tax credits for the self-employed based on the last three years’ earnings.
Mr Sunak told MPs yesterday the Government was working “at pace” to help workers, but admitted that given the scale of the challenge they would not be “perfectly targeted”. On another torrid day for stock markets across the world, the FTSE 100 slumped 214 points and the pound fell more than 4% against the dollar, to $1.15, its second lowest since 1985.
One analyst declared: “The bloodbath is resuming.”
Business Secretary Alok Sharma insisted ministers were already working on plans to help those at risk.
He said: “I know this is a very anxious time for lots of people. They are concerned about their livelihoods.
“The Prime Minister has been clear that we will do whatever it takes to protect people’s health, to protect people’s livelihoods.”
But Kate Nicholls, of trade body UKHospitality, said: “Businesses are laying off tens of thousands of staff because they have no income.” She said the sector was suffering before the outbreak hit, with 150,000 to 200,000 staff laid off since January.
She added: “Most of those will have had a degree of notice but it will only have been short, and could have been a few days.”
Selfridges has temporarily closed its stores, but staff will still be paid. Pret a Manger said there were no changes to “pay policies”, even though some branches have shut.
All McDonald’s are now takeaways, drive-thrus and delivery operations, with no seating available.
Energy suppliers and the Government have launched an an emergency package to help vulnerable customers.
Those with pre-payment meters who are unable to leave home can get pre-loaded pay cards in the post.
Customers who cannot afford their bills will get support from suppliers.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Mum's plea for pasta for autistic son is answered in the best way

A mum who appealed for penne pasta so she can feed her autistic son during the coronavirus pandemic was left overwhelmed by the responses .
Tabatha Stirling , from Leith in Edinburgh , was unable to find any pasta for her 12-year-old son Teddy , who has Asperger 's and a selective eating condition , due to panic-buyers emptying supermarket shelves .
Teddy 's condition is common in autistic children and means that certain colours , textures and smells can put them off eating , Edinburgh Live reports .
Tabatha said she was initially not worried about panic-buyers stockpiling certain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extent when she tried to go shopping herself : She said : “ It really ramped up this week , I took my 5 year old after school to Sainsbury ’ s and it was shocking .
Do you have a coronavirus story to share ?
Email webnews @ mirror.co.uk “ That really nailed it down , there was an older lady that passed me and she said this is like when the war was on and there was rationing , but there was more food on the shelves during the war than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ask if anyone could help her as she faced concerns over how she was going to feed her son , tweeting : “ Hello , does anyone have penne pasta ?
`` My son is autistic and has very restricted eating .
Penne is the only pasta he ‘ can ’ eat .
After just a short while , the online community both on Twitter and Facebook showed support for Tabatha ’ s request , resulting in her receiving more than 200 messages and tweets of generous offers .
Donors included restaurant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their Edinburgh branch for a bag .
Tabatha said : “ I ’ ve had four packets sent to my house already and there seems to be more to come .
Some people just found me on Facebook and said ‘ I ’ ve got two packets they ’ re yours ’ .
“ I ’ m so grateful and appreciative , it shows that social media can be used for the power of good.
” She added : “ I was so appreciative and it shows now things like autism are taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being seen as being important to support .
“ In a crisis the good and the bad come out but the good always comes out stronger , which is lovely if you ’ re on your own , having strangers looking out for you .
”

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Sian Traynor, Lorraine King)

The British public are very concerned about the availability of pasta in Tesco
The British public are very concerned about the availability of pasta in Tesco
Tabatha Stirling, from Leith in Edinburgh, was unable to find any pasta for her 12-year-old son Teddy, who has Asperger's and a selective eating condition, due to coronavirus panic-buyers
Coronavirus: Mum of autistic boy pleads for pasta and is inundated with kindness
A mum who appealed for penne pasta so she can feed her autistic son during the coronavirus pandemic was left overwhelmed by the responses.
Tabatha Stirling, from Leith in Edinburgh, was unable to find any pasta for her 12-year-old son Teddy, who has Asperger's and a selective eating condition, due to panic-buyers emptying supermarket shelves.
Teddy's condition is common in autistic children and means that certain colours, textures and smells can put them off eating, Edinburgh Live reports.
Tabatha said she was initially not worried about panic-buyers stockpiling certain long life items but only realised the extent when she tried to go shopping herself:
She said: “It really ramped up this week, I took my 5 year old after school to Sainsbury’s and it was shocking.
Do you have a coronavirus story to share? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk
Image: Tabatha Stirling/Twitter) Tabatha Stirling/Twitter)
“That really nailed it down, there was an older lady that passed me and she said this is like when the war was on and there was rationing, but there was more food on the shelves during the war than now.”
So Tabatha took to Twitter to ask if anyone could help her as she faced concerns over how she was going to feed her son, tweeting:
“Hello, does anyone have penne pasta?
"My son is autistic and has very restricted eating. Penne is the only pasta he ‘can’ eat.
Image: Getty Images/Dorling Kindersley) Getty Images/Dorling Kindersley)
After just a short while, the online community both on Twitter and Facebook showed support for Tabatha’s request, resulting in her receiving more than 200 messages and tweets of generous offers.
Donors included restaurant chain Prezzo who invited Tabatha to visit their Edinburgh branch for a bag.
Tabatha said: “I’ve had four packets sent to my house already and there seems to be more to come. Some people just found me on Facebook and said ‘I’ve got two packets they’re yours’.
“I’m so grateful and appreciative, it shows that social media can be used for the power of good.”
She added: “I was so appreciative and it shows now things like autism are taken very seriously, nowadays it is clearly being seen as being important to support.
“In a crisis the good and the bad come out but the good always comes out stronger, which is lovely if you’re on your own, having strangers looking out for you.”


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Juice Wrld's estate worth at least $3.3 million after his tragic death at 21

Jucie Wrld 's estate is thought to be worth a huge $ 3.3 million , despite his tender age of just 21 when he died .
The rapper , whose real name was Jarad Higgins , died on December 8 , last year , after allegedly swallowing multiple pills in an attempt to hide them from police about to board his plane .
He suffered a fatal seizure at Chicago 's Midway Airport .
Legal documents obtained by TMZ state that the star 's estate is worth a massive $ 3,278,867.49 .
The wealth is partly made up of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be worth around $ 1,490,000 .
His money is spread across several bank account , with one said to have $ 1,001,515.68 sitting in it .
Juice Wrld also had a huge collection of pricey watches and jewellery thought to be worth almost $ 460,000 .
But it 's thought that he could have had even more money in trusts outside of his estate .
The star 's cause of death was confirmed as an accidental overdose of Oxycodone .
The Cook County Medical Examiner said that they found toxic levels of Oxycodone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often rapped about taking the addictive codeine cough syrup .
Law enforcement officers said they found a bottle of it on the plane after Juice 's death .
His mum Carmella Wallace has said her late son `` battled with prescription drug dependency '' .
On the day he died , the pilot of his plane had raised the alarm after noticing that weapons were being carried on the flight from Los Angeles .
FBI and FAA agents were waiting on the ground when the plane landed .
It 's reported that Juice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bid to hide them from the feds while they searched through his and his entourage 's luggage .
He 's said to have taken the pills at some point before the plane landed and the feds conducting their search .
He collapsed and is believed to have been conscious when he was taken to a medical centre , but he died shortly after that .
Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033

The rapper - real name Jarad Higgins - died on December 8 after allegedly swallowing multiple pills in an attempt to hide them from police about to board his plane
Juice Wrld's estate worth at least $3.3 million after his tragic death at 21
Jucie Wrld's estate is thought to be worth a huge $3.3 million, despite his tender age of just 21 when he died.
The rapper, whose real name was Jarad Higgins, died on December 8, last year, after allegedly swallowing multiple pills in an attempt to hide them from police about to board his plane. He suffered a fatal seizure at Chicago's Midway Airport.
Legal documents obtained by TMZ state that the star's estate is worth a massive $3,278,867.49.
The wealth is partly made up of his Miami condo, which is thought to be worth around $1,490,000.
His money is spread across several bank account, with one said to have $1,001,515.68 sitting in it.
Image: Scott Garfitt/REX) Scott Garfitt/REX)
Juice Wrld also had a huge collection of pricey watches and jewellery thought to be worth almost $460,000.
But it's thought that he could have had even more money in trusts outside of his estate.
The star's cause of death was confirmed as an accidental overdose of Oxycodone.
The Cook County Medical Examiner said that they found toxic levels of Oxycodone and codeine in his system.
Juice often rapped about taking the addictive codeine cough syrup.
Image: AFF-USA/REX) AFF-USA/REX)
Law enforcement officers said they found a bottle of it on the plane after Juice's death.
His mum Carmella Wallace has said her late son "battled with prescription drug dependency".
On the day he died, the pilot of his plane had raised the alarm after noticing that weapons were being carried on the flight from Los Angeles.
Image: Christopher Polk/REX) Christopher Polk/REX)
FBI and FAA agents were waiting on the ground when the plane landed.
It's reported that Juice swallowed a number of pills in a bid to hide them from the feds while they searched through his and his entourage's luggage.
He's said to have taken the pills at some point before the plane landed and the feds conducting their search.
He collapsed and is believed to have been conscious when he was taken to a medical centre, but he died shortly after that.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Dancing On Ice's Linda Lusardi 'extremely ill' after contracting coronavirus

Linda Lusardi says she has been struck down with coronavirus .
The former Dancing On Ice star , 61 , took to social media to share her symptoms and to reveal that she has been feeling 'extremely ill ' for the past number of days .
Linda revealed that news after casually telling a fan that she 's contracted the virus on Twitter .
After a beloved fan asked the former Loose Women star to wish her grandfather a happy birthday , the TV star claimed that she did n't have the energy as she has 'the corona ' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ill with Corona at the moment '' she replied to the polite tweet .
Stunned by her unexpected health admission , Linda 's fans rushed to share their well wishes and prayers for the former Dancing On Ice star .
One shocked follower wrote : `` Oh my god .
That 's such awful news .
I hope you recover quickly and are keeping safe Linda '' .
While others wrote : `` So sorry to hear you 're feeling bad and have caught this horrid sickness .
Praying for you '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and are getting all the rest you need .
You got this '' .
`` Ca n't believe this news .
You 're a strong lady though and you 'll fight this .
Do n't worry , do n't fret pet ! ''
a fourth reassured .
Linda was a once a regular on the Loose Women panel and appeared on Dancing On Ice in 2008 , finishing in eighth place with pro dancer Daniel Whiston .
Linda joins an already growing list of celebrities who have been struck down with the sickness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As well as that , Idris Elba tested positive for the virus and went into immediate self-isolation .
The Luther star and Hollywood actor said he did n't even have any symptoms before being diagnosed .
The 47-year-old shared a video on Twitter and wrote : `` This morning I tested positive for Covid 19 .
I feel ok , I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus .
`` Stay home people and be pragmatic .
I will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ m doing .
No panic . ''
Talking to the camera as wife Sabrina stood alongside him , the actor said : `` Hey what 's up guys , so look , this morning I got some test results back for coronavirus and it came back positive .
`` Yeah and it sucks .
Listen , I 'm doing okay .
Sabrina has n't been tested and she 's doing okay . ''
He added : `` I did n't have any symptoms .
I got tested because I realised I was exposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' I found out last Friday they were tested positive , I quarantined myself and got tested immediately and got the results back today .
`` Look , this is serious , now 's the time to really think about social distancing , washing your hands '' .

The former Dancing On Ice star has told her followers that she's almost certain she is suffering with the symptoms of the deadly COVID -19
Linda Lusardi says she has been struck down with coronavirus.
The former Dancing On Ice star, 61, took to social media to share her symptoms and to reveal that she has been feeling 'extremely ill' for the past number of days.
Linda revealed that news after casually telling a fan that she's contracted the virus on Twitter.
After a beloved fan asked the former Loose Women star to wish her grandfather a happy birthday, the TV star claimed that she didn't have the energy as she has 'the corona'.
"Sorry Kerry. I am extremely ill with Corona at the moment" she replied to the polite tweet.
Stunned by her unexpected health admission, Linda's fans rushed to share their well wishes and prayers for the former Dancing On Ice star.
Image: Rex) Rex)
One shocked follower wrote: "Oh my god. That's such awful news. I hope you recover quickly and are keeping safe Linda".
While others wrote: "So sorry to hear you're feeling bad and have caught this horrid sickness. Praying for you".
"Linda, hope you recover quickly and are getting all the rest you need. You got this".
"Can't believe this news. You're a strong lady though and you'll fight this. Don't worry, don't fret pet!" a fourth reassured.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Linda was a once a regular on the Loose Women panel and appeared on Dancing On Ice in 2008, finishing in eighth place with pro dancer Daniel Whiston.
Linda joins an already growing list of celebrities who have been struck down with the sickness including Tom Hanks and his wife Ruth.
As well as that, Idris Elba tested positive for the virus and went into immediate self-isolation.
The Luther star and Hollywood actor said he didn't even have any symptoms before being diagnosed.
Image: Idris Elba/Twitter) Idris Elba/Twitter)
The 47-year-old shared a video on Twitter and wrote: "This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus.
"Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how I’m doing. No panic."
Talking to the camera as wife Sabrina stood alongside him, the actor said: "Hey what's up guys, so look, this morning I got some test results back for coronavirus and it came back positive.
"Yeah and it sucks. Listen, I'm doing okay. Sabrina hasn't been tested and she's doing okay."
He added: "I didn't have any symptoms. I got tested because I realised I was exposed to someone who had also tested positive.
" I found out last Friday they were tested positive, I quarantined myself and got tested immediately and got the results back today.
"Look, this is serious, now's the time to really think about social distancing, washing your hands".


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Army puts 20,000 troops on coronavirus standby for new 'Covid Support Force'

The Ministry of Defence has put 20,000 troops on standby to deal with the coronavirus crisis .
As many as 150 troops are learning to drive oxygen tankers to supply hospitals .
The troops will form part of the new `` Covid Support Force '' .
Today the death toll in the UK reached 104 with that figure expected to rise in the coming days and weeks .
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said : “ The men and women of our Armed Forces stand ready to protect Britain and her citizens from all threats , including Covid-19 .
Do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Email webnews @ mirror.co.uk '' The unique flexibility and dedication of the services means that we are able to provide assistance across the whole of society in this time of need .
“ From me downwards the entirety of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces are dedicated to getting the nation through this global pandemic.
” Major General Charlie Stickland Assistance Chief of the Defence Staff Operations and Commitments said : “ Putting more personnel at a higher state of readiness and having our Reserves on standby gives us greater flexibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they require our assistance .
“ The Covid Support Force , potentially drawing upon our highly skilled scientists at Dstl or oxygen tanker drivers , will form part of a whole force effort to support the country during its time of need .
`` Our servicemen and women are committed to maintain our operational output and delivering any support the Government requires.
” The news comes hours after it is said that government officials are braced for coronavirus `` lockdown '' measures to be ramped up in London within days .
Boris Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on lockdown - and said `` further and faster measures '' may be needed .
Whitehall sources today told the Mirror lockdown-style measures in London - which Boris Johnson admitted is `` a few weeks ahead '' of the rest of the country - are `` imminent '' .
A senior Downing Street source vehemently denied anything had been decided .
Britain 's government set out emergency legislation on Tuesday to tackle the growing outbreak , with measures including giving powers to police and immigration officers to detain people and put them in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The new measures we will be introducing in the Emergency Coronavirus Bill this week will only be used when it is absolutely necessary and must be timed to maximise their effectiveness , '' health minister Matt Hancock said in a statement .
The legislation , which also includes measures to allow recently retired National Health Service staff and social workers to return to work , will be brought before parliament tomorrow .
Schools across the UK will shut their gates from Friday in a landmark move to deal with the coronavirus outbreak .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ had Covid-19 but not shown symptoms has been hailed as a “ game-changer ” .
The Government ’ s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said Public Health England ’ s ( PHE ) work on the antibody test is “ progressing very fast ” , and will provide valuable insight into the pandemic .
Mr Johnson said : “ The great thing about having a test to see whether you ’ ve had it enough , is suddenly a green light goes on above your head and you can go back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that you are most unlikely to get it again .
“ So for an economic point of view , from a social point of view , it really could be a game-changer . ''

VIDEO CLAIMS TO SHOW A FLEET OF TANKS BEING MOVED AROUND THE UK OVERNIGHT
VIDEO CLAIMS TO SHOW A FLEET OF TANKS BEING MOVED AROUND THE UK OVERNIGHT
As many as 150 troops are learning to drive oxygen tankers to supply hospitals treating coronavirus patients. They will form part of the new "Covid Support Force"
The Ministry of Defence has put 20,000 troops on standby to deal with the coronavirus crisis.
As many as 150 troops are learning to drive oxygen tankers to supply hospitals.
An 10,000 extra personnel, on top of 10,000 already at “high readiness”, will be part of a “Covid Support Force” ready to help Government departments and local resilience forums.
Reservists could be drafted into help as the crisis escalates.
Meanwhile, a Navy hospital ship which supported operations to curb the ebola outbreak could be used to treat coronavirus patients.
The Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel Argus, which was based off West Africa in 2014-15 during the ebola crisis, could be used to ease pressure on packed NHS wards.
Today the death toll in the UK reached 104 with that figure expected to rise in the coming days and weeks.
Commons Defence Committee chairman Tobias Ellwood - a former Armed Forces minister - explained the role of 20,000 troops on standby would likely be to “keep Britain moving”.
Image: AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images)
Mr Ellwood is not in charge of deploying troops or in the MOD, but has close contact with ministers in his committee role.
He told ITV’s Good Morning Britain: “Initially it’ll be logistics, it’ll be providing extra support - let’s say for law and order. So they won’t be going out arresting people, nothing like that.
“But they may be taking over let’s say guarding No10, we’ve been that in the past, relieving those police officers for them to go and do other duties.
“They may be helping in hospital support - we have a huge medical capability in the Armed Forces, they could be called up to do that, some of that is already happening.
“There may be in a worst case situation makeshift morgues that are put forward, but also making sure our fuel is moved around the country and other support in that manner as well.”
Mr Ellwood added: “We know that the workforces have been depleted - not just on the tubes, and so forth, in hospitals and schools and tanker drivers.
“This is where the Armed Forces step in and do this absolutely brilliantly. We’ve seen it in the past.
“There’s no need to be anxious about this - these people are the British people, they’re in our society already. I’m a reservist myself.”
He said troops have been working with department for a number of weeks to work out how to “infill” to keep Britain moving.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “The men and women of our Armed Forces stand ready to protect Britain and her citizens from all threats, including Covid-19.
Do you have a coronavirus story to share? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk
Image: Reading Post) Reading Post)
"The unique flexibility and dedication of the services means that we are able to provide assistance across the whole of society in this time of need.
“From me downwards the entirety of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces are dedicated to getting the nation through this global pandemic.”
The military has already been involved in bringing home Britons from the Diamond Princess cruise ship and assisting with repatriation flights from China and Japan.
It is playing a key role in returning to the UK passengers affected by an outbreak on the Fred Olsen ship Braemar.
Scientists at the top-secret Defence Science and Technology Laboratory at Porton Down are working urgently on the project to tackle the spread of coronavirus.
The lab was key to identifying Novichok as the poison used by Russian agents in Salisbury, Wilts, in a botched assassination attempt on two Russian citizens in 2018.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Some 38 members from the Royal Logistics Corps have already been sent to help local resilience forum planners respond to Covid-19.
Various military exercises have been cancelled or scaled-back.
And the Ministry of Defence has cancelled rest-and-recuperation leave for troops returning from overseas operations.
Some could be quarantined to check for symptoms of the virus, meaning they are fit and ready when needed.
Troops could be called on to “backfill” for police, prison officers and Border Force staff diverted from normal duties or off sick.
But there are no plans for the military to become involved in maintaining public order.
Armed Forces personnel may also help convert hotels into makeshift hospital wards.
Major General Charlie Stickland Assistance Chief of the Defence Staff Operations and Commitments said: “Putting more personnel at a higher state of readiness and having our Reserves on standby gives us greater flexibility to support public services as and when they require our assistance.
“The Covid Support Force, potentially drawing upon our highly skilled scientists at Dstl or oxygen tanker drivers, will form part of a whole force effort to support the country during its time of need.
Image: PA) PA)
"Our servicemen and women are committed to maintain our operational output and delivering any support the Government requires.”
The news comes hours after it is said that government officials are braced for coronavirus "lockdown" measures to be ramped up in London within days.
Boris Johnson tonight did not rule out putting London on lockdown - and said "further and faster measures" may be needed.
Whitehall sources today told the Mirror lockdown-style measures in London - which Boris Johnson admitted is "a few weeks ahead" of the rest of the country - are "imminent".
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Image: NurPhoto/PA Images) NurPhoto/PA Images)
A senior Downing Street source vehemently denied anything had been decided.
Britain's government set out emergency legislation on Tuesday to tackle the growing outbreak, with measures including giving powers to police and immigration officers to detain people and put them in isolation to protect public health.
"The new measures we will be introducing in the Emergency Coronavirus Bill this week will only be used when it is absolutely necessary and must be timed to maximise their effectiveness," health minister Matt Hancock said in a statement.
The legislation, which also includes measures to allow recently retired National Health Service staff and social workers to return to work, will be brought before parliament tomorrow.
Schools across the UK will shut their gates from Friday in a landmark move to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.
A coronavirus test that reveals who has had Covid-19 but not shown symptoms has been hailed as a “game-changer”.
The Government’s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said Public Health England’s (PHE) work on the antibody test is “progressing very fast”, and will provide valuable insight into the pandemic.
Mr Johnson said: “The great thing about having a test to see whether you’ve had it enough, is suddenly a green light goes on above your head and you can go back to work safe and confident in the knowledge that you are most unlikely to get it again.
“So for an economic point of view, from a social point of view, it really could be a game-changer."


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--UK's floating hospital ship could be used in military fight against coronavirus

A Navy hospital ship which supported operations to curb the ebola outbreak could be used to treat coronavirus patients .
The Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel Argus , which was based off West Africa in 2014-15 during the ebola crisis , could be used to ease pressure on packed NHS wards .
It is among measures being examined by Armed Forces ' chiefs as the military response to the Covid-19 pandemic ramps up .
Helicopters and other aircraft could be made available to help .
Some 20,000 troops will be put on standby as the disease escalates .
An 10,000 extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at “ high readiness ” , will be part of a “ Covid Support Force ” ready to help Government departments and local resilience forums .
Plans include training 150 specialist tanker drivers to deliver oxygen to the NHS .
Reservists could be drafted into help as the crisis escalates .
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said : “ The men and women of our Armed Forces stand ready to protect Britain and her citizens from all threats , including Covid-19 .
“ The unique flexibility and dedication of the services means that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole of society in this time of need .
“ From me downwards , the entirety of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces are dedicated to getting the nation through this global pandemic.
” The military has already been involved in bringing home Britons from the Diamond Princess cruise ship and assisting with repatriation flights from China and Japan .
It is playing a key role in returning to the UK passengers affected by an outbreak on the Fred Olsen ship Braemar .
Scientists at the top-secret Defence Science and Technology @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the project to tackle the spread of coronavirus .
The lab was key to identifying Novichok as the poison used by Russian agents in Salisbury , Wilts , in a botched assassination attempt on two Russian citizens in 2018 .
Some 38 members from the Royal Logistics Corps have already been sent to help local resilience forum planners respond to Covid-19 .
Various military exercises have been cancelled or scaled-back .
And the Ministry of Defence has cancelled rest-and-recuperation leave for troops returning from overseas operations .
Some could be quarantined to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meaning they are fit and ready when needed .
Troops could be called on to “ backfill ” for police , prison officers and Border Force staff diverted from normal duties or off sick .
But there are no plans for the military to become involved in maintaining public order .
Armed Forces personnel may also help convert hotels into makeshift hospital wards .
Major General Charlie Stickland , Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff for operations and commitments , said : “ Putting more personnel at a higher state of readiness and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greater flexibility to support public services as and when they require our assistance .
“ The Covid Support Force , potentially drawing upon our highly-skilled scientists at DSTL or oxygen tanker drivers , will form part of a whole force effort to support the country during its time of need .
“ Our servicemen and women are committed to maintain our operational output and delivering any support the Government requires .
”

The 28,000-tonne, 575ft, Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel Argus could be the latest weapon as Britain battles Covid-19
UK's floating hospital ship could be used in military fight against coronavirus
A Navy hospital ship which supported operations to curb the ebola outbreak could be used to treat coronavirus patients.
The Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel Argus, which was based off West Africa in 2014-15 during the ebola crisis, could be used to ease pressure on packed NHS wards.
It is among measures being examined by Armed Forces' chiefs as the military response to the Covid-19 pandemic ramps up.
Helicopters and other aircraft could be made available to help.
Some 20,000 troops will be put on standby as the disease escalates.
An 10,000 extra personnel, on top of 10,000 already at “high readiness”, will be part of a “Covid Support Force” ready to help Government departments and local resilience forums.
Plans include training 150 specialist tanker drivers to deliver oxygen to the NHS.
Reservists could be drafted into help as the crisis escalates.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “The men and women of our Armed Forces stand ready to protect Britain and her citizens from all threats, including Covid-19.
“The unique flexibility and dedication of the services means that we are able to provide assistance across the whole of society in this time of need.
Image: PA) PA)
“From me downwards, the entirety of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces are dedicated to getting the nation through this global pandemic.”
The military has already been involved in bringing home Britons from the Diamond Princess cruise ship and assisting with repatriation flights from China and Japan.
It is playing a key role in returning to the UK passengers affected by an outbreak on the Fred Olsen ship Braemar.
Scientists at the top-secret Defence Science and Technology Laboratory at Porton Down are working urgently on the project to tackle the spread of coronavirus.
The lab was key to identifying Novichok as the poison used by Russian agents in Salisbury, Wilts, in a botched assassination attempt on two Russian citizens in 2018.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Some 38 members from the Royal Logistics Corps have already been sent to help local resilience forum planners respond to Covid-19.
Various military exercises have been cancelled or scaled-back.
And the Ministry of Defence has cancelled rest-and-recuperation leave for troops returning from overseas operations.
Some could be quarantined to check for symptoms of the virus, meaning they are fit and ready when needed.
Troops could be called on to “backfill” for police, prison officers and Border Force staff diverted from normal duties or off sick.
But there are no plans for the military to become involved in maintaining public order.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Armed Forces personnel may also help convert hotels into makeshift hospital wards.
Major General Charlie Stickland, Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff for operations and commitments, said: “Putting more personnel at a higher state of readiness and having our reserves on standby gives us greater flexibility to support public services as and when they require our assistance.
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
“The Covid Support Force, potentially drawing upon our highly-skilled scientists at DSTL or oxygen tanker drivers, will form part of a whole force effort to support the country during its time of need.
“Our servicemen and women are committed to maintain our operational output and delivering any support the Government requires.”


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--PL meeting amid coronavirus crisis is most crucial in division's history

It really should not matter , yet it does .
It matters to the millions of fans , to the players currently kicking their heels , the staff whose incomes remain in limbo and , of course , the chairmen keen for the show to go on .
So when chief executive Richard Masters hosts today ’ s Premier League meeting in London it will be the most crucial since the competition ’ s inception .
The meeting will be held by conference call and cover two key areas – competition scheduling and finance .
No definitive solutions are expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the 20 member clubs and a way through the minefield will be sought , taking into consideration the self-interest of every club .
Mirror Sport understands there is a definite will to finish the season from the Premier League , come what may .
Voiding the campaign is understood not to be an option at this stage .
It means Liverpool will have the chance to complete what would be a first title win in 30 years .
Sheffield United will have the chance to win their game in hand and displace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fourth Champions League place , should Manchester City ’ s Champions League ban stand .
Aston Villa , with a game in hand on the other two teams in the bottom three , will have the opportunity to leapfrog their way out of the drop zone .
Playing all 92 games at a neutral venue in the Midlands , as has been mooted , is also fraught with difficulty .
Clubs based elsewhere are already unhappy at the prospect , arguing that it would hand an advantage to Wolves , Villa and Leicester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an edge to clubs with fewer games left to play at home than away .
Today ’ s meeting will look at the earliest possible point at which football can restart , taking into account the general health of the country with concern that the coronavirus is some way away from hitting its peak in the UK .
The feeling is that with UEFA having cleared the runway by postponing the European Championships until next year , a sporting way forward will be made easier for leagues in England , France , Germany @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season will also be of paramount importance because of the financial implications .
The Premier League is the most-watched sports league in the world , broadcast in 212 territories to 643 million homes with a potential TV audience of 4.7 billion people .
Questions remain for the TV , digital and radio companies that have entered into contracts for the 2019/20 season , in terms of the football they have lost and how the conclusion of the season will be broadcast .
Clubs are concerned that if next season starts late , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ late , creating problems over wages and transfer fees they are committed to paying .
The conundrum is the reason why today ’ s sit-down is the most significant the Premier League will ever hold – and an early test of Masters ’ leadership .

The Premier League will meet with its 20 member clubs on Thursday to discuss how they proceed amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic causing a suspension to the season
It really should not matter, yet it does.
It matters to the millions of fans, to the players currently kicking their heels, the staff whose incomes remain in limbo and, of course, the chairmen keen for the show to go on.
So when chief executive Richard Masters hosts today’s Premier League meeting in London it will be the most crucial since the competition’s inception.
The meeting will be held by conference call and cover two key areas – competition scheduling and finance.
No definitive solutions are expected today, but proposals will be put to the 20 member clubs and a way through the minefield will be sought, taking into consideration the self-interest of every club.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
Mirror Sport understands there is a definite will to finish the season from the Premier League, come what may. Voiding the campaign is understood not to be an option at this stage.
It means Liverpool will have the chance to complete what would be a first title win in 30 years.
Sheffield United will have the chance to win their game in hand and displace Manchester United in what could be the fourth Champions League place, should Manchester City’s Champions League ban stand.
Aston Villa, with a game in hand on the other two teams in the bottom three, will have the opportunity to leapfrog their way out of the drop zone.
Playing all 92 games at a neutral venue in the Midlands, as has been mooted, is also fraught with difficulty. Clubs based elsewhere are already unhappy at the prospect, arguing that it would hand an advantage to Wolves, Villa and Leicester.
Also, that it would hand an edge to clubs with fewer games left to play at home than away.
Today’s meeting will look at the earliest possible point at which football can restart, taking into account the general health of the country with concern that the coronavirus is some way away from hitting its peak in the UK.
The feeling is that with UEFA having cleared the runway by postponing the European Championships until next year, a sporting way forward will be made easier for leagues in England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.
Restarting the season will also be of paramount importance because of the financial implications. The Premier League is the most-watched sports league in the world, broadcast in 212 territories to 643 million homes with a potential TV audience of 4.7 billion people.
poll loading Should the clubs complete the season? 0+ VOTES SO FAR Yes No
Questions remain for the TV, digital and radio companies that have entered into contracts for the 2019/20 season, in terms of the football they have lost and how the conclusion of the season will be broadcast.
Clubs are concerned that if next season starts late, then the TV money may in turn arrive late, creating problems over wages and transfer fees they are committed to paying.
The conundrum is the reason why today’s sit-down is the most significant the Premier League will ever hold – and an early test of Masters’ leadership.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Man Utd ready to break bank to seal Jude Bellingham transfer

Manchester United are ready to beat a host of suitors to secure the signature of talented Birmingham City teenager Jude Bellingham .
Sixteen-year-old Bellingham has also been a target for Borussia Dortmund as well as several of United 's Premier League rivals , but the Red Devils have shown more determination than most to bring him to Old Trafford .
The club gave Bellingham and his family a tour of their Carrington training complex last week , allowing the star and his parents access to the club 's inner workings despite stringent rules on visitors during the coronavirus pandemic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ now ready to put together a package worth around £30million to sign the England youth international .
Birmingham have vowed that they wo n't stand in Bellingham 's way over a summer transfer , as long as his prospective suitors met his asking price .
The teenager does n't turn 17 until June 29 , when he can pen his first professional deal and earn up to £100,000 a week at United .
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward have identified Bellingham as a priority summer arrival as they seek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signing exciting young British players .
Bellingham became the youngest player ever to play for Birmingam when he appeared for the first-team at the age of 16 years and 38 days , surpassing a record set by Trevor Francis .
He has scored four goals in 35 games this season , and was also linked with moves to Liverpool , Manchester City and Arsenal .
It was Dortmund who quickly jumped to the front of the queue alongside United for the youngster though , as the German giants looked to team him up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However United now look set to win the battle for one of the hottest properties in English football .

The 16-year-old Birmingham City midfielder recently paid a visit to United's Carrington training ground with his family, and United are now at the head of the queue to sign him
Manchester United are ready to beat a host of suitors to secure the signature of talented Birmingham City teenager Jude Bellingham.
Sixteen-year-old Bellingham has also been a target for Borussia Dortmund as well as several of United's Premier League rivals, but the Red Devils have shown more determination than most to bring him to Old Trafford.
The club gave Bellingham and his family a tour of their Carrington training complex last week, allowing the star and his parents access to the club's inner workings despite stringent rules on visitors during the coronavirus pandemic.
Mirror Sport has learned that United are now ready to put together a package worth around £30million to sign the England youth international.
Image: PA) PA)
Birmingham have vowed that they won't stand in Bellingham's way over a summer transfer, as long as his prospective suitors met his asking price.
The teenager doesn't turn 17 until June 29, when he can pen his first professional deal and earn up to £100,000 a week at United.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward have identified Bellingham as a priority summer arrival as they seek to follow the club's policy of signing exciting young British players.
Bellingham became the youngest player ever to play for Birmingam when he appeared for the first-team at the age of 16 years and 38 days, surpassing a record set by Trevor Francis.
Image: Manchester United via Getty Images) Manchester United via Getty Images)
He has scored four goals in 35 games this season, and was also linked with moves to Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal.
It was Dortmund who quickly jumped to the front of the queue alongside United for the youngster though, as the German giants looked to team him up with fellow English talent Jadon Sancho.
However United now look set to win the battle for one of the hottest properties in English football.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Premier League to plead with clubs to finish season at crunch meeting

The Premier League will plead with its 20 member clubs to finish the season when they meet on Thursday .
Options will be put forward during a conference call for the top flight to be ready when it is safe to play again .
It is understood the will from the Premier League is to resolve all outstanding issues from the 2019/20 season , also to complete its contractual obligations to broadcasters around the world .
It comes amid concern that the season could be voided as the coronavirus spreads .
It also comes after clubs in the Football League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the games begin again .
An EFL statement said : “ The primary objective , in order to protect competition integrity , is to deliver a successful conclusion to the 2019/20 season , subject to the overriding priority around health and well-being .
“ Plans continue to be developed on the agreed principle that it is in the best interests of the EFL and clubs to complete the current season at the appropriate time .
“ Conversations will continue with the EFL ’ s counterparts at the FA , the Premier League , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football achieves a joined-up and collaborative approach.
” The Premier League has been suspended until at least April 4 but the shutdown could last months .
Although Liverpool , 25 points clear at the top of the Premier League , are expected to wrap up their title win , the Champions League places and Europa League places are yet to be resolved .
So too the relegation places .
In the race for the top four - assuming Manchester City ’ s Champions League ban stands - Sheffield United have a game in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be the final qualifying place .
Aston Villa , second from bottom , would leapfrog the three teams above them if they win their game in hand .

EXCLUSIVE: The Premier League will plead with its 20 member clubs to come together and ensure the current season is played to a finish at a crunch meeting on Thursday
The Premier League will plead with its 20 member clubs to finish the season when they meet on Thursday.
Options will be put forward during a conference call for the top flight to be ready when it is safe to play again.
It is understood the will from the Premier League is to resolve all outstanding issues from the 2019/20 season, also to complete its contractual obligations to broadcasters around the world.
It comes amid concern that the season could be voided as the coronavirus spreads. It also comes after clubs in the Football League voted yesterday to finish their season when the games begin again.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
An EFL statement said: “The primary objective, in order to protect competition integrity, is to deliver a successful conclusion to the 2019/20 season, subject to the overriding priority around health and well-being.
“Plans continue to be developed on the agreed principle that it is in the best interests of the EFL and clubs to complete the current season at the appropriate time.
“Conversations will continue with the EFL’s counterparts at the FA, the Premier League, the PFA and the LMA to ensure football achieves a joined-up and collaborative approach.”
The Premier League has been suspended until at least April 4 but the shutdown could last months.
Although Liverpool, 25 points clear at the top of the Premier League, are expected to wrap up their title win, the Champions League places and Europa League places are yet to be resolved. So too the relegation places.
In the race for the top four - assuming Manchester City ’s Champions League ban stands - Sheffield United have a game in hand on Manchester United for the what would be the final qualifying place.
Aston Villa, second from bottom, would leapfrog the three teams above them if they win their game in hand.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--NHS staff 'used as cannon fodder' in coronavirus 'war' due to lack of masks

Under-pressure NHS staff are “ putting their lives on the line ” due to a lack of masks and other protective kit as they treat suspected coronavirus patients .
A Mirror investigation today exposes the grim reality for medics on the frontline .
Doctors working at 15 hospital trusts warn they are being put at risk by not getting gear such as gloves , full surgical gowns , hoods and goggles – personal protection equipment or PPE .
In harrowing accounts provided via the Doctors ’ Association UK , one medic said : “ We ’ ve all seen the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t understand why the UK isn ’ t taking this seriously.
” Another told how they had young children and elderly parents at home .
“ I ’ m in the process of trying to find somewhere else to stay so that I don ’ t infect them , ” they said .
“ Everyone talks about the shortage of doctors , but then why use us as cannon fodder ?
” A senior consultant at one London hospital said the rate of patients needing to be intubated – when a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can be placed on a ventilator to help them breathe – had “ skyrocketed ” .
“ There is a very limited number of FSM-18 [ a type of facemask ] available .
We will soon all run out completely meaning we are rationing supplies.
” They said doctors and nurses might be forced to work closely with Covid-19 patients doing things like intubations even without masks in the coming hours , days and weeks to treat the sick .
“ The Government needs to get a grip of this situation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certain to get incredibly worse.
” Dr Natalie Ashburner , of the Doctors ’ Association UK , said : “ The correct PPE must be made available at every site that might require it .
This is vital in order to protect our patients but also to protect the lives of the life-savers.
” Hospitals listed as having shortages include Rotherham General Hospital , Bristol Children ’ s Hospital , Hillingdon Hospital in Uxbridge , Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and at St Thomas , Lewisham and two other unnamed hospitals in London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ merely a snapshot of the true scale of shortages .
Consultant paediatrician Dr John Puntis , co-chairman of Keep Our NHS Public , said without sufficient protection staff were “ quite literally ” expected to “ put their lives on the line.
” Yet on Tuesday NHS boss Simon Stevens told MPs the NHS had more than 28 million of the “ most intense ” kind of facemasks , with more in production .
Guidelines have been downgraded to say full protective equipment including “ FFP3 ” respirator masks , gowns , visor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needed for staff working in intensive care and intensive therapy units and high dependency units .
Public Health England insists that full FFP3 respirator masks were provided to all staff in the early days of the outbreak “ in excess of what is needed ” .
Jake Dunning , of PHE ’ s transmission experts , said : “ The main transmission risks for coronaviruses are exposure to droplets , inhalation of which is prevented by a surgical mask and contact-transfer of virus ( prevented by gloves , apron , careful doffing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is fine and true for most clinical scenarios in hospitals.
” At yesterday ’ s PMQs , Jeremy Corbyn told Boris Johnson : “ A senior doctor has said ‘ the rest of the world is providing staff with full protective gear and we ’ re restricting it ’ .
The PM replied : “ There is a massive effort going on ... to ensure that we have adequate supply of PPE equipment not just now but throughout the outbreak.
” Meanwhile , 890,000 people have signed a petition calling for NHS staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes as the Government announced it is ramping up mass testing from 4,000 to 25,000 a day .

Matt Hancock: We are getting more protective health equipment
Matt Hancock: We are getting more protective health equipment
EXCLUSIVE Doctors working at 15 hospital trusts warned they're being put at risk deprived of gloves, full surgical gowns, hoods and goggles as they tackle Covid-19
Coronavirus: NHS staff 'being used as cannon fodder' due to lack of masks
Under-pressure NHS staff are “putting their lives on the line” due to a lack of masks and other protective kit as they treat suspected coronavirus patients.
A Mirror investigation today exposes the grim reality for medics on the frontline.
Doctors working at 15 hospital trusts warn they are being put at risk by not getting gear such as gloves, full surgical gowns, hoods and goggles – personal protection equipment or PPE.
In harrowing accounts provided via the Doctors’ Association UK, one medic said: “We’ve all seen the news from China and Italy. I don’t understand why the UK isn’t taking this seriously.”
Another told how they had young children and elderly parents at home. “I’m in the process of trying to find somewhere else to stay so that I don’t infect them,” they said.
“Everyone talks about the shortage of doctors, but then why use us as cannon fodder?”
Image: PA Wire/Press Association Images) PA Wire/Press Association Images)
A senior consultant at one London hospital said the rate of patients needing to be intubated – when a tube is inserted through the airway so they can be placed on a ventilator to help them breathe – had “skyrocketed”.
“There is a very limited number of FSM-18 [a type of facemask] available. We will soon all run out completely meaning we are rationing supplies.”
They said doctors and nurses might be forced to work closely with Covid-19 patients doing things like intubations even without masks in the coming hours, days and weeks to treat the sick.
“The Government needs to get a grip of this situation and immediately otherwise an already desperate situation is certain to get incredibly worse.”
Image: Andrew Fosker/Shutterstock) Andrew Fosker/Shutterstock)
Dr Natalie Ashburner, of the Doctors’ Association UK, said: “The correct PPE must be made available at every site that might require it. This is vital in order to protect our patients but also to protect the lives of the life-savers.”
Hospitals listed as having shortages include Rotherham General Hospital, Bristol Children’s Hospital, Hillingdon Hospital in Uxbridge, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and at St Thomas, Lewisham and two other unnamed hospitals in London.
But this is likely to be merely a snapshot of the true scale of shortages.
Consultant paediatrician Dr John Puntis, co-chairman of Keep Our NHS Public, said without sufficient protection staff were “quite literally” expected to “put their lives on the line.”
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Yet on Tuesday NHS boss Simon Stevens told MPs the NHS had more than 28 million of the “most intense” kind of facemasks, with more in production.
Guidelines have been downgraded to say full protective equipment including “FFP3” respirator masks, gowns, visor, goggles and gloves are now only needed for staff working in intensive care and intensive therapy units and high dependency units.
Public Health England insists that full FFP3 respirator masks were provided to all staff in the early
days of the outbreak “in excess of what is needed”.
Jake Dunning, of PHE’s transmission experts, said: “The main transmission risks for coronaviruses are exposure to droplets, inhalation of which is prevented by a surgical mask and contact-transfer of virus (prevented by gloves, apron, careful doffing, hand hygiene etc).
“This is fine and true for most clinical scenarios in hospitals.”
At yesterday’s PMQs, Jeremy Corbyn told Boris Johnson : “A senior doctor has said ‘the rest of the world is providing staff with full protective gear and we’re restricting it’.
The PM replied: “There is a massive effort going on... to ensure that we have adequate supply of PPE equipment not just now but throughout the outbreak.”
Meanwhile, 890,000 people have signed a petition calling for NHS staff to be given routine testing. It comes as the Government announced it is ramping up mass testing from 4,000 to 25,000 a day.