birminghammail--2020-03-18--Education Secretary announces schools will close from Friday

Schools in every part of the UK will close from Friday , Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has announced .
He said : `` After schools shut their gates on Friday afternoon , they will remain closed until further notice . ''
There will be some exceptions , and children of key workers including NHS staff , police or delivery staff will still attend school .
And vulnerable children , such as those receiving support from social services , will also continue to attend school .
Mr Williamson said nurseries , sixth-forms and colleges would also close .
The Government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arguing that coronavirus does not appear to affect children while forcing parents to care for their children could make staff shortages in the health sevice worse .
Mr Johnson confirmed English schools would close after the Welsh Government said all schools in Wales will close for an early Easter break by Friday , and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced schools in Scotland will also close by the end of the week .
The Government had previously resisted calls to close schools , saying NHS workers are among those who may need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But head teachers have warned they are so short-staffed due to Covid-19 that they are struggling to stay open .
There is the possibility of some schools staying open for the pupils of key workers – which would include NHS staff .
A further 32 people in England have died after testing positive for Covid-19 , NHS England said .
A statement from NHS England said : “ A further 32 people , who tested positive for the coronavirus ( Covid-19 ) have died , bringing the total number of confirmed reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patients were aged between 59 and 94 years old and had underlying health conditions .
“ Their families have been informed.
” Across the UK as a whole , 104 people have died .
The patients died in hospitals run by the following NHS Trusts : More than 200,000 cases of confirmed coronavirus have been reported around the world , the World Health Organisation said .
And 8,000 people globally have lost their lives , the global health body said .

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Schools in every part of the UK will close from Friday, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has announced.
He said: "After schools shut their gates on Friday afternoon, they will remain closed until further notice."
There will be some exceptions, and children of key workers including NHS staff, police or delivery staff will still attend school.
And vulnerable children, such as those receiving support from social services, will also continue to attend school.
Mr Williamson said nurseries, sixth-forms and colleges would also close.
The Government has previously said schools should stay open, arguing that coronavirus does not appear to affect children while forcing parents to care for their children could make staff shortages in the health sevice worse.
Mr Johnson confirmed English schools would close after the Welsh Government said all schools in Wales will close for an early Easter break by Friday, and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced schools in Scotland will also close by the end of the week.
The Government had previously resisted calls to close schools, saying NHS workers are among those who may need to stay home and look after their children.
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But head teachers have warned they are so short-staffed due to Covid-19 that they are struggling to stay open.
There is the possibility of some schools staying open for the pupils of key workers – which would include NHS staff.
A further 32 people in England have died after testing positive for Covid-19, NHS England said.
A statement from NHS England said: “A further 32 people, who tested positive for the coronavirus (Covid-19) have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in England to 99.
“Patients were aged between 59 and 94 years old and had underlying health conditions.
“Their families have been informed.” Across the UK as a whole, 104 people have died.
The patients died in hospitals run by the following NHS Trusts:
Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – 2
London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust – 3
King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – 2
Barts Health NHS Trust – 3
North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust – 1
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust – 1
St Georges University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – 1
Epsom and St. Helier NHS Trust – 1
The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust – 1
Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust – 3
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust – 2
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust – 1
Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust – 1
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – 1
Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust – 1
Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust – 1
Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust – 4
Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust – 1
East Sussex Healthcare Trust – 1
Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust – 1
More than 200,000 cases of confirmed coronavirus have been reported around the world, the World Health Organisation said.
And 8,000 people globally have lost their lives, the global health body said.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Clubs circle for Villa target Santamaria - reports

Aston Villa were denied in their attempt to beat other European teams to the punch to one of the continent 's most highly-rated talents in January .
Angers midfielder Baptiste Santamaria is of interest to clubs such as Sevilla and Villarreal due to his performance levels for the Ligue 1 side , and Angers are trying to attract as much attention as possible to raise Santamaria 's price tag .
According to ABC Sevilla , Villa swooped in with an early offer in January , but Angers played tough .
A bid of ten million euros was rejected by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to return .
It is believed that Santamaria 's value will only rise , and Angers know that all too well .
Villa 's initial offer set a bar that has yet to be cleared - but it is obvious that their 'low ' bid was not enough to tempt Angers .
A second bid from Villa may be in the works - but it will depend on a lot of circumstances changing .
Namely - the club 's survival situation will need to be cleared up , as will the status of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus break and delay .
What 's more , Villa could be in for a rehaul of their recruitment department , with Jesus Garcia Pitarch reportedly lined up for a summer axe .
At any rate , the club may be priced out of their interest , now that Santamaria has caught the eye .

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Aston Villa were denied in their attempt to beat other European teams to the punch to one of the continent's most highly-rated talents in January.
Angers midfielder Baptiste Santamaria is of interest to clubs such as Sevilla and Villarreal due to his performance levels for the Ligue 1 side, and Angers are trying to attract as much attention as possible to raise Santamaria's price tag.
According to ABC Sevilla, Villa swooped in with an early offer in January, but Angers played tough. A bid of ten million euros was rejected by the French club, and Villa are yet to return.
It is believed that Santamaria's value will only rise, and Angers know that all too well.
And now Leicester City are said to have joined the race to sign him.
Villa's initial offer set a bar that has yet to be cleared - but it is obvious that their 'low' bid was not enough to tempt Angers.
A second bid from Villa may be in the works - but it will depend on a lot of circumstances changing.
However, Brendan Rodgers side - already guaranteed of their Premier League status next season - could now find themselves in the driving seat to complete the transfer, according to the Express.
Tottenham Hotspur and Everton have also been linked with his services.
Aston Villa's survival situation will need to be cleared up before they can swoop to make an improved bid, as will the status of the Premier League calendar due to the coronavirus break and delay.
What's more, Villa could be in for a rehaul of their recruitment department, with Jesus Garcia Pitarch reportedly lined up for a summer axe.
At any rate, the club may be priced out of their interest, now that Santamaria has caught the eye.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Ex West Brom winger a summer transfer target for Championship pair

West Bromwich Albion 's failed loanee Chris Willock is a reported summer transfer target for Championship rivals Cardiff City and Swansea City .
Willock , who caught the eye in Albion ’ s under 23s side but never made an appearance in the first-team , only signed for the club last summer on a season-long loan from Portuguese side Benfica .
The forward scored seven goals in all competitions , and provided six Premier League 2 assists in Albion colours .
Yet after failing to break into Slaven Bilic ’ s first team plans , he was permitted to cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ window and found his way to another side in the second tier , Huddersfield Town .
The Terriers , managed by Danny Cowley , were understood to be fans of Willock from earlier in the season and got their man in a beat-the-deadline deal .
And Willock has made an immediate impact at the John Smith ’ s Stadium ; he ’ s made seven league appearances to date , three of them starts , and scored the opener in a 2-1 win over Bristol City last month .
He thought he might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week earlier when his goal-bound effort was turned in from close range by teammate Steven Mounie , but ultimately Cowley has found room for him in his side .
Now Football Insider claim that both Swansea , who were on the wrong end of that Willock/Mounie goal , and Welsh rivals Cardiff have taken great interest in Willock and are weighing up offers to Benfica in the summer window .
Willock , a product of the Arsenal academy , has a contract at Benfica that currently runs until the summer of 2022 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ first-teamer Joe and Gillingham and ex-Manchester United trainee Matty .

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West Bromwich Albion's failed loanee Chris Willock is a reported summer transfer target for Championship rivals Cardiff City and Swansea City.
Willock, who caught the eye in Albion’s under 23s side but never made an appearance in the first-team, only signed for the club last summer on a season-long loan from Portuguese side Benfica.
The forward scored seven goals in all competitions, and provided six Premier League 2 assists in Albion colours.
Yet after failing to break into Slaven Bilic’s first team plans, he was permitted to cut the loan short in the January transfer window and found his way to another side in the second tier, Huddersfield Town.
The Terriers, managed by Danny Cowley, were understood to be fans of Willock from earlier in the season and got their man in a beat-the-deadline deal.
And Willock has made an immediate impact at the John Smith’s Stadium; he’s made seven league appearances to date, three of them starts, and scored the opener in a 2-1 win over Bristol City last month.
He thought he might’ve opened his Terriers account a week earlier when his goal-bound effort was turned in from close range by teammate Steven Mounie, but ultimately Cowley has found room for him in his side.
Now Football Insider claim that both Swansea, who were on the wrong end of that Willock/Mounie goal, and Welsh rivals Cardiff have taken great interest in Willock and are weighing up offers to Benfica in the summer window.
Willock, a product of the Arsenal academy, has a contract at Benfica that currently runs until the summer of 2022.
He is the brother of current Gunners first-teamer Joe and Gillingham and ex-Manchester United trainee Matty.


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Stockpiling rules and supermarket opening times for Tesco,  Aldi, Asda and more

Supermarket shopping has become a pretty unreal experience - with empty shelves and long queues becoming the norm .
Chains such as Asda and Tesco are doing their very best to lessen the alarming panic buying and deal with government advice on social distancing .
Shops have also taken sensible measures to ensure there is enough food in their stores for everyone by introducing a shopping hour for the elderly and most vulnerable .
There have been major changes to opening hours so stores can restock empty shelves and help manage staffing issues .
Here is the latest news on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's major supermarket stores .
Tesco stores will now be shut at 10pm to allow for restocking .
The chain had initially put restrictions on products including nappies , milk anti-bacterial wipes , dried pasta and toilet roll .
However , customers can now only buy three items in every product line .
Tesco has also closed meat , fish , deli counters in an effort redeploy staff .
Vulnerable and elderly customers will be given priority between 9am and 10am on Mondays , Wednesdays and Fridays .
The budget retailer currently allows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ product .
A spokesperson for Aldi said the amount was “ still significantly more than most customers would buy in a normal shopping trip '' .
All Aldis across the city will close at 8pm Monday - Saturday .
Sunday opening hours remain unchanged .
Typical opening times : Monday - Saturday 8am - 8pm .
Sunday 10 -6pm .
Please check on the Aldi website for specific stores as opening times may vary .
The chain has urged customers not to enter the store before 9am on Fridays so the most vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is restricting shoppers to three items on all food and closing its cafes and pizza counters , while reducing the opening hours of all its 24-hour stores for re-stocking .
Customers can now buy a maximum of three of any grocery product and a maximum of two of the most popular items including soap , UHT milk and toilet paper .
It has closed all cafes , meat , fish and pizza counters to redeploy staff to stock up shelves and also free up warehouse space for products .
Elderly and vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
From Monday March 23 , elderly shoppers and those with a disability will also have priority access to online delivery slots .
Sainsbury ’ s click and collect service is also expanding from March 23 , with more collections sites opening over the next few days .
Monday - Sunday 7am - 10pm or 7am - 9pm Please check the store locator site for opening hours for specific stores .
( The first hour of opening for all stores is set aside for OAPs and the vulnerable ) .
The store has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to expand its home delivery service to cope with demand and ensure all shelves are frequently replenished .
The Coventry Road , Small Heath store is open Monday - Saturday 7am - 10pm .
And 10pm - 4pm on Sundays .
But opening hours vary from store to store .
Please visit Morrisons store finder for more information .
Iceland has also placed purchasing restrictions on some in demand items .
They have also reserved 8am time slots to give the vulnerable and the elderly a chance to shop in store .
Each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8am - 9am to get their shopping first .
Iceland has five stores in the Birmingham area including Handsworth and Smethick and five other stores in the surrounding towns including West Bromwich , Wednesbury and Walsall .

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Supermarket shopping has undergone huge changes amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Stores have had to introduce rationing to clamp down on panic buying and change opening times so they have chance to restock the shelves.
Tesco, Marks & Spencer and Sainbsury's have announced a golden shopping hour for NHS and social care workers, so they can join older and vulnerable shoppers in having less competition for restocked shelves.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson says he will be speaking to supermarket bosses about efforts to keep supplies flowing and how to overcome the panic buying that is gripping the UK.
Shelves have been stripped of essential items and stores are also taking on thousands of temporary and permanent workers to deal with the increased demand.
Here is the latest news on shopping times and purchase limits at major supermarket stores.
Tesco
Some Tesco Extra stores and larger Metro stores have reduced their hours to between 6am and 10pm, so they can restock shelves overnight.
Customers can now only buy three items in every product line.
Tesco has also closed meat, fish, deli counters in an effort redeploy staff. Vulnerable and elderly customers will be given priority between 9am and 10am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Tesco superstores are now typically open Monday - Saturday 6am - 10pm and 11am - 5pm on Sunday.
Tesco Express opening hours are Monday - Sunday, 6am - 10pm.
Times vary from store to store. Find your nearest Tesco here
Aldi
The budget supermarket chain has changed its opening hours.
Aldi’s opening hours are 8am to 9pm from Monday to Saturday, and 11am to 5pm on Sundays.
To check your local store, visit Aldi's website.
The store currently allows customers to buy four of any one product. A spokesperson for Aldi said the amount was "still significantly more than most customers would buy in a normal shopping trip."
Asda
(Image: Nick Horner)
Asda is closing its 24-hour stores between 12am and 6am on a temporary basis.
The chain has urged customers not to enter the store before 9am on Fridays so the most vulnerable can use this time to shop.
A number of restrictions are now in place at Asda due to the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak.
The supermarket confirmed via Twitter that customers would now be able to buy up to three of any product across all food items, toiletries and cleaning products.
Stores are typically open 8am - 10pm Monday - Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday.
To check opening hours for specific stores, visit the Asda store locater site as times can vary.
Sainsbury's
(Image: Getty Images)
Sainsbury’s has announced changes to how its home delivery service will work during the coronavirus outbreak.
The retailer used its Twitter account to share the news with its customers where it detailed further plans to prioritise elderly and vulnerable customers.
In its tweet, it said: "We are prioritising elderly and vulnerable customers for online delivery slots.
"If you consider yourself to be vulnerable and do not receive an email from us today, please visit our Groceries Online website tomorrow (Monday) for information on how to contact us."
Bosses have also pledged to introduce separate priority shopping times for NHS staff and elderly customers.
Across its stores, 30 minutes will be reserved from 7.30am to 8am from Monday to Saturday for NHS and social care workers - and will open for elderly customers from 8am to 9am every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Mike Coupe, Sainsbury’s CEO, said: "We have listened to feedback and decided to allow NHS and social care workers to shop in our supermarkets for half an hour before they open each day.
"We’re delighted to be able to offer priority shopping to all the hard-working NHS staff across the country who are working so hard to keep us all safe and well."
Please check the store locator site for opening hours for specific stores. (The first hour of opening for all stores is set aside for OAPs and the vulnerable).
Morrisons
Morrisons has introduced purchase limits for high demand products.
The store has switched off its app temporarily and also announced it is creating 3,500 jobs to expand its home delivery service to cope with demand and ensure all shelves are frequently replenished.
It has not yet changed opening times or introduced any special shopping times for the elderly or NHS.
Delivery drivers are not permitted to enter houses or hand over shopping bags on your doorstep. Any items in your order that have been replaced with something else because your choice was out of stock can no longer be handed back when the delivery arrives, as part of its new social distancing rules.
Shopping orders can be changed no later than 48 hours before delivery. Attempts to change your order after that might end up with it being cancelled.
And the store added: "To ensure more customers have access to everyday essentials we are introducing a restriction of only three items per customer on every product line online. Where products are on a multi buy, e.g. 10 for £3, you can still enjoy the offer if you buy a combination of 10 products in the same offer but you will be limited to 3 of any variety in that offer."
The Coventry Road, Small Heath store is open Monday - Saturday 7am - 10pm. And 10pm - 4pm on Sundays. But opening hours vary from store to store.
Visit Morrisons store finder for more information.
Lidl
Lidl has no dedicated shopping hours for the NHS or elderly and is maintaining its normal opening times at present.
It says it is limiting sales of certain items to four per purchase.
Find your nearest Lidl and its opening hours here - most stores are sticking to their 8am to 10pm times for Monday to Saturday, and either 10am to 4pm or 11am to 5pm on Sundays.
Iceland
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
Iceland will open its supermarkets early for elderly customers to visit before stores open to the public.
Each day, elderly shoppers can visit between 8am - 9am to get their shopping first.
The store has now introduced a daily slot for NHS workers to shop.
Monday to Saturday
First hour of trading - priority hours for elderly and vulnerable people
Final hour of trading - NHS staff only
To check opening times at your local store, visit www.iceland.co.uk.
Marks and Spencer
M&S stores have confirmed that older and more vulnerable customers, as well as NHS workers, will have time set apart for them to make sure they are able to purchase the essentials they need.
A statement read: “Supporting our customers and communities during this difficult time is our number one priortiy.
“We want to make sure everyone has access to the items they need, so we are setting aside the first hour of trading on certain days for our older and vulnerable customers, and for our brilliant NHS and emergency workers.
“For older and vulnerable customers, this will start tomorrow on Friday 20th March, and going forward after that, on Mondays and Thursdays.
“For NHS and emergency workers, this will be Tuesdays and Fridays.
Find your nearest M&S store here


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Universal Credit contingency fund payment - the new rules for emergency cash

Families and individuals who are struggling with finances because of the coronavirus crisis are turning to the welfare system for help .
Those who do not earn enough to qualify for statutory sick pay have been told by the Government they can try applying for Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance instead .
And for self-employed people whose earnings go up and down from month to month - and may now be dwindling at a terrifying rate because of the effects of the coronavirus - , the Minimum Income Floor has been temporarily abolished .
That means UC payments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their actual earnings not on an assumed level of pay .
It 's one piece of good news for freelancers who are reporting that their work diaries are being wiped out because they are self-isolating or assignments have been cancelled .
For those who are already on Universal Credit - or newly applying for it - there are a few options that can help provide some extra money .
Universal Credit contingency fund ( UCCF ) payments are a hot topic many people are asking about at the moment - but how do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
In Northern Ireland , where Universal Credit is paid twice a month , these contingency fund payments are offered to those who are receiving the benefit but are in financial difficulty .
Changes were recently made to the UCCF - which has been running since November 2017 - and they came into effect in January 2020 .
From that date , the fund would now be part of the Northern Ireland Government 's Discretionary Support Scheme .
Payments from the UCCF are made available in the form of non-repayable grants , limited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claimants facing hardship as a result of difficulties not due to any fault on their part and who have already received a benefit-transfer or new-claim advance of their first UC payment .
The change means that the requirement for claimants to receive a UC advance payment before being eligible for a payment from the UCCF was removed .
Officials said this would make the eligibility criteria for accessing UCCF less restrictive .
Around £2 million a year is put into the fund .
Removing the restriction means more people will apply for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cash put into the fund , officials say they may have to reduce the amount given in payouts .
This will be assessed at the end of March 2020 .
In its first two years , there have been 8,573 applications for cash from the fund and a total of just over £948,000 has been paid out .
It means just over £100 is typically given to each applicant , on average .
A report said : “ The volume of claims to the UCCF to date has been unexpectedly modest and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the requirement to initially claim a UC Advance before applying .
However it is anticipated the change in policy will lead to an increase in applications . ''
To request a payment , you must phone the Finance Support Service or contact your work coach .
The number to call is 0800 587 2750 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday .
Northern Ireland claimants can also get an advance on their first payment or apply for a Budgeting Advance to cover the cost of emergency expenses such as household essentials , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those in the UK , advances on the first payment are also available , along with Budgeting Advances , as part of the emergency help for Universal Credit claimants .
Alternative Payment Arrangements can also be requested .
This could mean UK claimants getting their Universal Credit fortnightly rather than once a month , or for rent payments to be sent directly to landlords rather than expecting claimants to pay housing costs themselves .
Another option is a hardship loan .
This is a form of financial assistance for those who are struggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been sanctioned .
Sanctions are financial penalties imposed for breaking the conditions of a benefit claim .
It means Universal Credit can be reduced or even stopped altogether as a punishment for things like failing to attend jobcentre appointments .
If such a sanction leaves you unable to pay for rent , food , heating or hygiene needs , then a hardship loan can be requested .
It must be paid back out of future Universal Credit payments .
And many other forms of financial help are also available , including council tax @ @ @ @ @ @

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Families and individuals who are struggling with finances because of the coronavirus crisis are turning to the welfare system for help.
Those who do not earn enough to qualify for statutory sick pay have been told by the Government they can try applying for Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance instead.
And for self-employed people whose earnings go up and down from month to month - and may now be dwindling at a terrifying rate because of the effects of the coronavirus - the Minimum Income Floor has been temporarily abolished.
That means UC payments for the self-employed are worked out on their actual earnings not on an assumed level of pay. It's one piece of good news for freelancers who are reporting that their work diaries are being wiped out because they are self-isolating or assignments have been cancelled.
For those who are already on Universal Credit - or newly applying for it - there are a few options that can help provide some extra money.
Universal Credit contingency fund (UCCF) payments are a hot topic many people are asking about at the moment - but how do they work and where are they available?
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
In Northern Ireland, where Universal Credit is paid twice a month, these contingency fund payments are offered to those who are receiving the benefit but are in financial difficulty.
Changes were recently made to the UCCF - which has been running since November 2017 - and they came into effect in January 2020.
From that date, the fund would now be part of the Northern Ireland Government's Discretionary Support Scheme.
Payments from the UCCF are made available in the form of non-repayable grants, limited to one per year, to new claimants facing hardship as a result of difficulties not due to any fault on their part and who have already received a benefit-transfer or new-claim advance of their first UC payment.
The change means that the requirement for claimants to receive a UC advance payment before being eligible for a payment from the UCCF was removed.
Officials said this would make the eligibility criteria for accessing UCCF less restrictive.
Around £2 million a year is put into the fund. Removing the restriction means more people will apply for a UCCF payment and if this exceeds the cash put into the fund, officials say they may have to reduce the amount given in payouts. This will be assessed at the end of March 2020.
In its first two years, there have been 8,573 applications for cash from the fund and a total of just over £948,000 has been paid out. It means just over £100 is typically given to each applicant, on average.
A report said: “The volume of claims to the UCCF to date has been unexpectedly modest and it is unlikely that this is solely attributable to the requirement to initially claim a UC Advance before applying. However it is anticipated the change in policy will lead to an increase in applications."
To request a payment, you must phone the Finance Support Service or contact your work coach. The number to call is 0800 587 2750 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday.
Northern Ireland claimants can also get an advance on their first payment or apply for a Budgeting Advance to cover the cost of emergency expenses such as household essentials, childcare costs or removal fees.
For those in the UK, advances on the first payment are also available, along with Budgeting Advances, as part of the emergency help for Universal Credit claimants.
Alternative Payment Arrangements can also be requested. This could mean UK claimants getting their Universal Credit fortnightly rather than once a month, or for rent payments to be sent directly to landlords rather than expecting claimants to pay housing costs themselves.
Another option is a hardship loan. This is a form of financial assistance for those who are struggling with living costs because they’ve been sanctioned.
Sanctions are financial penalties imposed for breaking the conditions of a benefit claim. It means Universal Credit can be reduced or even stopped altogether as a punishment for things like failing to attend jobcentre appointments.
If such a sanction leaves you unable to pay for rent, food, heating or hygiene needs, then a hardship loan can be requested. It must be paid back out of future Universal Credit payments.
And many other forms of financial help are also available, including council tax reductions - find out more here


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Landlord evictions banned over next three months

Landlords are to be banned from starting eviction proceedings against tenants .
Due to the coronavirus pandemic , the government has announced tenants will be protected over the next three months of uncertainty .
Renters in private and social accommodation will be safe from new evictions thanks to emergency legislation being introduced to ease financial pressure on households across the UK .
It was announced yesterday that homeowners will be entitiled to a three-month mortgage payment holiday and now this is to be extended to landlords whose tenants are experiencing financial difficulties due to COVID-19 .
Follow our live updates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Robert Jenrick MP said : `` The government is clear – no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home , nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts .
`` These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage .
Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started .
`` These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this very difficult time . ''
It is hoped this will help to alleviate pressure to meet mortgage payments and therefore save mounting pressure on tenants too .
At the end of the three-month period , landlords and tenants will be expected to work together to establish an affordable repayment plan , taking into account tenants ’ individual circumstances .
According to homeless charity Shelter , more than 20 million renters in England urgently need protection and it estimates that over 50,000 households could face eviction through the courts over the next six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Neate , chief executive at Shelter , said : “ News the government is to legislate to stop renters being evicted from their homes during the coronavirus crisis , will come as a great relief to many people .
Without this decisive action tens of thousands of renters would have faced eviction in the coming months , while potentially trying to isolate and protect themselves and others . ''
She added : “ At Shelter we ’ d already heard horror stories from terrified renters threatened with eviction by irresponsible landlords , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behaviour will be stopped in its tracks .
“ The government has done the right thing .
There are 20 million renters in England who will benefit from this protection - which is a vital emergency measure to keep people safe and in their homes .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Elly Blake, Zoe Chamberlain)

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Landlords are to be banned from starting eviction proceedings against tenants.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the government has announced tenants will be protected over the next three months of uncertainty.
Renters in private and social accommodation will be safe from new evictions thanks to emergency legislation being introduced to ease financial pressure on households across the UK.
It was announced yesterday that homeowners will be entitiled to a three-month mortgage payment holiday and now this is to be extended to landlords whose tenants are experiencing financial difficulties due to COVID-19.
Follow our live updates on the coronavirus in Birmingham here
(Image: Getty Images)
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP said: "The government is clear – no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home, nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts.
"These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage. Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started.
"These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring everyone gets the support they need at this very difficult time."
It is hoped this will help to alleviate pressure to meet mortgage payments and therefore save mounting pressure on tenants too.
At the end of the three-month period, landlords and tenants will be expected to work together to establish an affordable repayment plan, taking into account tenants’ individual circumstances.
According to homeless charity Shelter, more than 20 million renters in England urgently need protection and it estimates that over 50,000 households could face eviction through the courts over the next six months without this emergency legislation.
Polly Neate, chief executive at Shelter, said: “News the government is to legislate to stop renters being evicted from their homes during the coronavirus crisis, will come as a great relief to many people. Without this decisive action tens of thousands of renters would have faced eviction in the coming months, while potentially trying to isolate and protect themselves and others."
She added: “At Shelter we’d already heard horror stories from terrified renters threatened with eviction by irresponsible landlords, including vital NHS workers. Now this shocking behaviour will be stopped in its tracks.
“The government has done the right thing. There are 20 million renters in England who will benefit from this protection - which is a vital emergency measure to keep people safe and in their homes.”


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Pundit claims Man Utd want Villa’s Jack Grealish for one reason

Manchester United are pursuing Jack Grealish because of the Aston Villa captain ’ s similarity to Bruno Fernandes , it has been claimed .
Grealish , Villa ’ s best player this season , is on the wanted list at Old Trafford this summer having impressed United ’ s recruitment team .
The 24-year-old has scored nine goals and provided eight assists having taken his game to another level after playing a vital role in Villa ’ s return to the Premier League .
United spent £49m to land Fernandes from Sporting in January and the Portugal international has made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s side .
European football expert Gabriele Marcotti says Grealish would fit in perfectly at United because he has a similar attitude to Fernandes - and predicted signing the Villa midfielder and Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund could cost up to £200m .
`` I think getting them [ Grealish and Jadon Sancho ] is probably going to cost you the best part of £200m , '' Marcotti is quoted as saying by the Express .
`` People seem to adore Grealish .
I know he 's somebody who stands out more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he does with his shinpads , because of his hair .
`` What I like about it though , in terms of attitude , we 've all praised Bruno Fernandes for his personality and the fact that the guy 's got cojones - Grealish does too .
`` I think this is something United could use actually , some very strong , visible , personalities as well .
That would certainly help . ''
Grealish is under contract at Villa until 2023 and he was widely tipped to receive his first England call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friendly matches against Italy and Denmark were cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak .

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Manchester United are pursuing Jack Grealish because of the Aston Villa captain’s similarity to Bruno Fernandes, it has been claimed.
Grealish, Villa’s best player this season, is on the wanted list at Old Trafford this summer having impressed United’s recruitment team.
The 24-year-old has scored nine goals and provided eight assists having taken his game to another level after playing a vital role in Villa’s return to the Premier League.
United spent £49m to land Fernandes from Sporting in January and the Portugal international has made an immediate impact for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.
European football expert Gabriele Marcotti says Grealish would fit in perfectly at United because he has a similar attitude to Fernandes - and predicted signing the Villa midfielder and Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund could cost up to £200m.
"I think getting them [Grealish and Jadon Sancho] is probably going to cost you the best part of £200m," Marcotti is quoted as saying by the Express.
"People seem to adore Grealish. I know he's somebody who stands out more than he should because of the stuff he does with his shinpads, because of his hair.
"What I like about it though, in terms of attitude, we've all praised Bruno Fernandes for his personality and the fact that the guy's got cojones - Grealish does too.
"I think this is something United could use actually, some very strong, visible, personalities as well. That would certainly help."
Grealish is under contract at Villa until 2023 and he was widely tipped to receive his first England call up before this month’s planned friendly matches against Italy and Denmark were cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Mums' misery at FOUR WEEK wait for supermarket deliveries

Birmingham mums are despairing as demand for supermarket deliveries means that , for many , the earliest available slots are three weeks away due to coronavirus panic buying .
One mum , who placed an order today ( March 19 ) said the first delivery she could book was for 26 days time , on April 14 .
Another added that the earliest she could get was four weeks away , with Sainsbury 's .
Others shared their frustrations on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page , saying that they 've had grocery orders cancelled at the last minute due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been made , they 've arrived with up to 20 items unavailable .
Azra Rashid said : `` Can ’ t even get one three weeks away . ''
Sara O ’ Reilly-Whitehead added : `` I couldn ’ t even get one in three weeks .
The slots all ran put saying not available .
No click and collect either . ''
Sarah Armes said : `` Nothing up to April 8 . ''
To try to combat panic-buying supermarket bosses have now taken action with many limiting purchasing volumes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it does n't seem to be doing much for online orders and delivieries .
Find out what your supermarket is doing here And , even those who have managed to get slots have found that their deliveries have been cancelled because their items were unavailable .
This has just happened to Diane Jobbins who had placed her order with Tesco a few weeks ago .
She explained : `` Just because you booked a slot doesn ’ t mean you will have a delivery , I had my grocery cancelled this morning because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picked from the shelves .
`` I ’ d already booked slots up to 9th april , won ’ t hold my breath , I ’ m a regular customer online but if there nothing on the shelves in the shops to pick then they can ’ t deliver . ''
For many shoppers , when their deliveries finally arrive , they are finding lots of items are missing because they are unavailable when being packed .
Isobel Howard said : `` I ’ ve got a delivery from Sainsbury ’ s coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ email from them informs 18 items substituted , 8 items out of stock !
Reckon I ’ ve done quite well lol . ''
Janine Basten I booked a delivery with Tesco last week it ’ s due to be delivered on Tuesday and I ’ ve all ready had 20 items become unavailable . ''

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Birmingham mums are despairing as demand for supermarket deliveries means that, for many, the earliest available slots are three weeks away due to coronavirus panic buying.
One mum, who placed an order today (March 19) said the first delivery she could book was for 26 days time, on April 14. Another added that the earliest she could get was four weeks away, with Sainsbury's.
Others shared their frustrations on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page, saying that they've had grocery orders cancelled at the last minute due to lack of supplies or that when deliveries have been made, they've arrived with up to 20 items unavailable.
Scarlat Oana said: "Sainsbury's is 4 weeks."
Azra Rashid said: "Can’t even get one three weeks away."
Sara O’Reilly-Whitehead added: "I couldn’t even get one in three weeks. The slots all ran put saying not available. No click and collect either."
Sarah Armes said: "Nothing up to April 8."
To try to combat panic-buying supermarket bosses have now taken action with many limiting purchasing volumes and introducing quiet hours for the elderly but it doesn't seem to be doing much for online orders and delivieries. Find out what your supermarket is doing here
And, even those who have managed to get slots have found that their deliveries have been cancelled because their items were unavailable.
This has just happened to Diane Jobbins who had placed her order with Tesco a few weeks ago. She explained: "Just because you booked a slot doesn’t mean you will have a delivery, I had my grocery cancelled this morning because items weren’t available to be picked from the shelves.
"I’d already booked slots up to 9th april, won’t hold my breath, I’m a regular customer online but if there nothing on the shelves in the shops to pick then they can’t deliver."
For many shoppers, when their deliveries finally arrive, they are finding lots of items are missing because they are unavailable when being packed.
Isobel Howard said: "I’ve got a delivery from Sainsbury’s coming tonight, booked two weeks ago, email from them informs 18 items substituted, 8 items out of stock! Reckon I’ve done quite well lol."
Janine Basten I booked a delivery with Tesco last week it’s due to be delivered on Tuesday and I’ve all ready had 20 items become unavailable."


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Irresponsible horse owner fined after pony's collar embeds into head

An irresponsible owner has been banned from keeping horses for a decade after a head collar became so embedded into a pony 's head it began pouring with blood when removed .
Patrick Eagle was hauled before Birmingham magistrates ' Court after RSPCA inspector - Charlotte Melvin - visited a group of cobs in Walsall .
Charlotte noticed a strong smell of infection when she approached the last pony during a visit to the field off Bentley Lane on October 18 , 2019 .
On closer inspection Charlotte discovered that the pony , a piebald colt estimated to be around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severely embedded headcollar .
The wound was very badly infected and full of maggots , the court was told .
Charlotte contacted the RSPCA - who investigated the case - along with police , local vets and a transporter .
The pony , later named Moses , was removed under Section 18.5 of the Animal Welfare Act and transported to the vets for urgent treatment .
He remained there for four days due to the extent of the injury caused by the headcollar , before being transported to World Horse Welfare Penny Farm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full recovery from his injury in the expert care of the Penny Farm team and will be found a new home via the charity ’ s rehoming scheme when he is ready .
Eagle , of Deans Road , Wolverhampton , was given a 12-week sentence suspended for 12 months and was ordered to pay of £400 in costs on Monday , March 9 .
He will also have to carry out 60 hours of unpaid work .
Charlotte said : “ Given how horrific the wound from his headcollar was , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recovery Moses has made .
Moses ’ suffering could so easily have been prevented and it ’ s awful to think that he could have been left like that if someone hadn ’ t cared enough to report the situation .
“ If anyone ever has concerns for a horse ’ s welfare they should call our Welfare Line on 0300 333 6000 with first-hand current information .
Thanks to the person who reported him , Moses is now happy and healthy and will be able to find a loving new home through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Howells said : `` The injury sustained by Moses highlights just how serious poorly fitted head collars can become .
`` These injuries are fully preventable and there is no excuse for allowing such an injury to occur .
Head collars should only be left on where absolutely necessary and should be checked daily to prevent rubbing .
`` Thanks to the care provided by vets and World Horse Welfare during the RSPCA ’ s investigation Moses has made a full recovery and will be looking for a new home in the near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welfare should call the RSPCA helpline on 0300 1234 999 .

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An irresponsible owner has been banned from keeping horses for a decade after a head collar became so embedded into a pony's head it began pouring with blood when removed.
Patrick Eagle was hauled before Birmingham magistrates' Court after RSPCA inspector - Charlotte Melvin - visited a group of cobs in Walsall.
Charlotte noticed a strong smell of infection when she approached the last pony during a visit to the field off Bentley Lane on October 18, 2019.
On closer inspection Charlotte discovered that the pony, a piebald colt estimated to be around two years of age, had a severely embedded headcollar.
The wound was very badly infected and full of maggots, the court was told.
Charlotte contacted the RSPCA - who investigated the case - along with police, local vets and a transporter.
The pony, later named Moses, was removed under Section 18.5 of the Animal Welfare Act and transported to the vets for urgent treatment.
He remained there for four days due to the extent of the injury caused by the headcollar, before being transported to World Horse Welfare Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre.
Moses made a full recovery from his injury in the expert care of the Penny Farm team and will be found a new home via the charity’s rehoming scheme when he is ready.
Eagle, of Deans Road, Wolverhampton, was given a 12-week sentence suspended for 12 months and was ordered to pay of £400 in costs on Monday, March 9.
He will also have to carry out 60 hours of unpaid work.
Charlotte said: “Given how horrific the wound from his headcollar was, I’m really happy with the recovery Moses has made. Moses’ suffering could so easily have been prevented and it’s awful to think that he could have been left like that if someone hadn’t cared enough to report the situation.
“If anyone ever has concerns for a horse’s welfare they should call our Welfare Line on 0300 333 6000 with first-hand current information. Thanks to the person who reported him, Moses is now happy and healthy and will be able to find a loving new home through our rehoming scheme.”
RSPCA inspector Fiona Howells said: "The injury sustained by Moses highlights just how serious poorly fitted head collars can become.
"These injuries are fully preventable and there is no excuse for allowing such an injury to occur. Head collars should only be left on where absolutely necessary and should be checked daily to prevent rubbing.
"Thanks to the care provided by vets and World Horse Welfare during the RSPCA’s investigation Moses has made a full recovery and will be looking for a new home in the near future."
Anyone concerned about animal welfare should call the RSPCA helpline on 0300 1234 999.


birminghammail--2020-03-19--UK coronavirus deaths rise to 144 as more than 64,000 people tested

The number of deaths due to COVID-19 in the UK has risen to 144 .
According to Department of Health figures , at 1pm on Thursday March 19 , there had been 3,269 confirmed cases from a total of 64,621 people tested .
Earlier this afternoon , Boris Johnson said we can 'turn the tide ' on the coronavirus pandemic within the UK within 12 weeks .
Addressing the public in his daily news conference , he commended people 's efforts to follow government advice on social distancing , adding : `` We can send it packing if the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's vital because that 's how we 're going to reduce the peak . ''
Follow our live updates on coronavirus in the Midlands here He also said there was great scientific progress being made on 'where the virus is ' which will make a 'huge difference to how we are able to manage the disease going forward . '
Plans are being put in place to buy hundreds of thousands of coronavirus tests to tell people if they have the disease .
The test , thought to be as 'simple as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to save thousands of lives .
During his daily news conference on March 19 , the Prime Minister said : `` It is early days but if it works we will buy hundreds and thousands as soon as practicable . ''

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The number of deaths due to COVID-19 in the UK has risen to 144.
According to Department of Health figures, at 1pm on Thursday March 19, there had been 3,269 confirmed cases from a total of 64,621 people tested.
Earlier this afternoon, Boris Johnson said we can 'turn the tide' on the coronavirus pandemic within the UK within 12 weeks.
Addressing the public in his daily news conference, he commended people's efforts to follow government advice on social distancing, adding: "We can send it packing if the public takes the steps outlined. And that's vital because that's how we're going to reduce the peak."
Follow our live updates on coronavirus in the Midlands here
He also said there was great scientific progress being made on 'where the virus is' which will make a 'huge difference to how we are able to manage the disease going forward.'
Plans are being put in place to buy hundreds of thousands of coronavirus tests to tell people if they have the disease.
The test, thought to be as 'simple as a pregnancy test', could potentially help to save thousands of lives.
During his daily news conference on March 19, the Prime Minister said: "It is early days but if it works we will buy hundreds and thousands as soon as practicable."


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Aston Villa player ‘convinced’ to make transfer by Arsenal ace

Aston Villa winger Trezeguet has been convinced to leave Aston Villa by Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny , reports in Turkey @ @ @ @ @ , who only joined Villa eight months ago , is already being linked with a @ @ @ @ @ of the summer transfer window .
Turkish media are reporting that Besiktas are keen on @ @ @ @ @ him one of their priority targets ahead of next season .
The Egypt international previously @ @ @ @ @ 's Super Lig , scoring 24 goals for Kasimpasa in 65 appearances .
Now , @ @ @ @ @ been talked into the move by Arsenal star and international teammate Elneny .
The report @ @ @ @ @ currently on loan at the Emirates from Besiktas , persuaded the Villa flier to agree @ @ @ @ @ conversation between the pair .
Trezeguet is under contract until 2023 following his £8.75m switch @ @ @ @ @ last year .
He has featured 31 times in all competitions this season , scoring @ @ @ @ @ assists .

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Aston Villa winger Trezeguet has been convinced to leave Aston Villa by Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny, reports in Turkey are sensationally claiming.
Trezeguet, who only joined Villa eight months ago, is already being linked with a move away from B6 ahead of the summer transfer window.
Turkish media are reporting that Besiktas are keen on the 25-year-old and have made him one of their priority targets ahead of next season.
The Egypt international previously spent two seasons in Turkey's Super Lig, scoring 24 goals for Kasimpasa in 65 appearances.
Now, Fotomac reports that he has been talked into the move by Arsenal star and international teammate Elneny.
The report says Elneny, who is currently on loan at Besiktas from the Emirates, persuaded the Villa flier to agree to the transfer during a conversation between the pair.
Trezeguet is under contract until 2023 following his £8.75m switch to Dean Smith's side last year. He has featured 31 times in all competitions this season, scoring four goals and providing three assists.


birminghammail--2020-03-19--British tourists taken off India flight amid coronavirus fears

A party of British tourists , including a Midlands couple , have been quarantined at a hotel in India after being “ offloaded ” from their return flight amid claims a member of their party had tested positive for coronavirus .
One of the 19-strong tour group told the PA news agency how they were strapped into their seats on board a Dubai-bound flight when a tannoy announcement was made naming them , and asking them to leave the aircraft .
Patrick Hodgson , from Highnam , Gloucestershire , said a male member of the group , thought to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously been taken to one side at the departure gate at Cochin airport in Kerala on Sunday .
Mr Hodgson said those taken off the plane after a “ quite brutal ” tannoy announcement were being held at a semi-decommissioned hotel near the airport , and had since undergone testing for coronavirus .
The 64-year-old , who thanked the Foreign Office for providing consular assistance , said : “ We were taken off the plane after we were sitting down and strapped in .
“ We were all ready to go and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our names and said please pick up all your belongings and leave the aircraft immediately .
It was quite humiliating – we had to do a walk of shame.
” Mr Hodgson said the group wanted to meet with Indian authorities to discuss when they could return to the UK , adding : “ We have had absolutely no visit whatsoever from anyone in authority .
“ We have been completely out of the loop and listening to second-hand information from local tour reps. ” Members of the party , including several people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have now undergone testing for the virus and are hoping that negative results over the next 24 hours will allow them to return to the UK .
Mr Hodgson said the group had been provided with conflicting accounts as to whether the man held back at the airport tested positive for coronavirus .
Party member Janet Leigh , aged 83 , from Dereham in Norfolk , urged the UK Government to do all it could to assist in securing their return to Britain , where they would be able to self-isolate .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept responsibility for those stranded , she said the flight company had agreed to reissue tickets , and said time was of the essence before potential further restrictions on air travel .
It is understood FCO staff have been in contact with those taken off the flight , their tour operator and the local authorities in Cochin , to ensure they were tested at the earliest opportunity and had access to necessary medication .
Consular assistance had been ramped up , Mr Hodgson said , adding : “ Meals are being delivered to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks , keeping distance and everything else .
“ We are not being treated badly at all but of course we are stuck here .
What we are now hoping is that we all test negative and are able to fly out on Saturday or Sunday.
” An FCO spokesperson said : “ We recognise that any British people currently overseas may be nervous about the impact of coronavirus on their travel and their health .
“ We are in close contact with travel providers and our international partners to provide support to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .
”

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A party of British tourists, including a Midlands couple, have been quarantined at a hotel in India after being “offloaded” from their return flight amid claims a member of their party had tested positive for coronavirus.
One of the 19-strong tour group told the PA news agency how they were strapped into their seats on board a Dubai-bound flight when a tannoy announcement was made naming them, and asking them to leave the aircraft.
Patrick Hodgson, from Highnam, Gloucestershire, said a male member of the group, thought to be suffering pneumonia, and his wife had previously been taken to one side at the departure gate at Cochin airport in Kerala on Sunday.
(Image: PA)
Mr Hodgson said those taken off the plane after a “quite brutal” tannoy announcement were being held at a semi-decommissioned hotel near the airport, and had since undergone testing for coronavirus.
The 64-year-old, who thanked the Foreign Office for providing consular assistance, said: “We were taken off the plane after we were sitting down and strapped in.
“We were all ready to go and then they announced over the PA and gave our names and said please pick up all your belongings and leave the aircraft immediately. It was quite humiliating – we had to do a walk of shame.”
Mr Hodgson said the group wanted to meet with Indian authorities to discuss when they could return to the UK, adding: “We have had absolutely no visit whatsoever from anyone in authority.
“We have been completely out of the loop and listening to second-hand information from local tour reps.”
Members of the party, including several people in groups particularly vulnerable to coronavirus, have now undergone testing for the virus and are hoping that negative results over the next 24 hours will allow them to return to the UK.
Mr Hodgson said the group had been provided with conflicting accounts as to whether the man held back at the airport tested positive for coronavirus.
Party member Janet Leigh, aged 83, from Dereham in Norfolk, urged the UK Government to do all it could to assist in securing their return to Britain, where they would be able to self-isolate.
In a statement urging the UK Government to accept responsibility for those stranded, she said the flight company had agreed to reissue tickets, and said time was of the essence before potential further restrictions on air travel.
It is understood FCO staff have been in contact with those taken off the flight, their tour operator and the local authorities in Cochin, to ensure they were tested at the earliest opportunity and had access to necessary medication.
Consular assistance had been ramped up, Mr Hodgson said, adding: “Meals are being delivered to doors and it’s all face masks, keeping distance and everything else.
“We are not being treated badly at all but of course we are stuck here. What we are now hoping is that we all test negative and are able to fly out on Saturday or Sunday.”
An FCO spokesperson said: “We recognise that any British people currently overseas may be nervous about the impact of coronavirus on their travel and their health.
“We are in close contact with travel providers and our international partners to provide support to those British people affected by ongoing measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19.”


birminghammail--2020-03-19--What Dr Tony Xia claims to be doing to help tackle coronavirus

Dr Tony Xia has posted a number of updates regarding his personal commitment to the global fight against the coronavirus .
The former Aston Villa owner credited the Healthcare and Bioscience division of his private RECON conglomerate with the creation of healthcare products designed to test and fight the COVID-19 outbreak , including ventilators ( of which the UK is in short supply of ) , hand sanitizer , surgical masks and test kits .
`` All staffs working at companies of RECON Healthcare and Bioscience division have been very busy supplying CoronaVirus Test kits , Hand wash sanitizer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many countries all over the world .
Thanks for everyone working hard to # FighTogether . ''
tweeted Xia .
On the tests , Xia mentioned the pay-off in his 'investment ' within RECON , which is producing rapid testing kits , as part of a worldwide ramping up in production of testing items .
`` Special thanks to people making the COVID-19 lgM/lgN antibody RapidTestKit .
With 15minutes , no need suffering taking the tests.Only need a finger drop blood , can test the result , accuracy is above 95 % ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investment in the bioscience , '' added the former Villa owner .
An article by WIRED states that a form of COVID-19 testing can rely on picking up antibodies - with a pregnancy test style plastic device , which can read positive or negative depending on whether COVID-19 antibodies exist in tested blood .
The test is usually ready within ten minutes , lining up with Xia 's claim .
`` That was I really referred to some country leaders about their arrogance , maybe ignorance ... hope it is not too late @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone , really really seriously !
# CoronaVirus # WearMusk `` tweeted Xia linking back to his Shakespeare quote , `` many cases in China proved that virus can survive in the air and spread through mouth , noses and even eyes .
Very very necessary to # wearmusk while out . ''
The Guardian 's science correspondent Hannah Devil wrote this week that a face mask is not a 'guarantee that you wo n't get sick ' - but says a mask still offers some level of protection .
Xia then shared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president of Brazil , Jair Bolsonaro - who had tested positive for the virus , before offering hygiene advice to his own following .
`` Advice : Put on surgical masks !
Wash your hands frequently !
No more party !
It will at least last two months as the situation like UK/USA going on ... # WashHandsNotEnough , '' he finished .

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Dr Tony Xia has posted a number of updates regarding his personal commitment to the global fight against the coronavirus.
The former Aston Villa owner credited the Healthcare and Bioscience division of his private RECON conglomerate with the creation of healthcare products designed to test and fight the COVID-19 outbreak, including ventilators (of which the UK is in short supply of), hand sanitizer, surgical masks and test kits.
"All staffs working at companies of RECON Healthcare and Bioscience division have been very busy supplying CoronaVirus Test kits, Hand wash sanitizer, Ventilators, thermometer,surgical masks to many countries all over the world. Thanks for everyone working hard to #FighTogether." tweeted Xia.
On the tests, Xia mentioned the pay-off in his 'investment' within RECON, which is producing rapid testing kits, as part of a worldwide ramping up in production of testing items.
"Special thanks to people making the COVID-19 lgM/lgN antibody RapidTestKit. With 15minutes, no need suffering taking the tests.Only need a finger drop blood, can test the result, accuracy is above 95%.... it’s surely my best investment in the bioscience," added the former Villa owner.
An article by WIRED states that a form of COVID-19 testing can rely on picking up antibodies - with a pregnancy test style plastic device, which can read positive or negative depending on whether COVID-19 antibodies exist in tested blood. The test is usually ready within ten minutes, lining up with Xia's claim.
"That was I really referred to some country leaders about their arrogance, maybe ignorance ... hope it is not too late to mend.... Take care yourself everyone, really really seriously! #CoronaVirus #WearMusk " tweeted Xia linking back to his Shakespeare quote, "many cases in China proved that virus can survive in the air and spread through mouth, noses and even eyes. Very very necessary to #wearmusk while out."
The Guardian's science correspondent Hannah Devil wrote this week that a face mask is not a 'guarantee that you won't get sick' - but says a mask still offers some level of protection.
Xia then shared an article regarding the health of the president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro - who had tested positive for the virus, before offering hygiene advice to his own following.
"Advice: Put on surgical masks! Wash your hands frequently! No more party! It will at least last two months as the situation like UK/USA going on... #WashHandsNotEnough ," he finished.


birminghammail--2020-03-19--West Brom receive strong promotion demand from pundit

The Championship season must be finished to give West Bromwich Albion and their promotion rivals the chance to go up to the Premier League .
That ’ s the view of John Barnes , who says all remaining fixtures have to take place ‘ however long it takes ’ .
Albion learned today their promotion bid has been placed further on hold after the suspension of fixtures due to the coronavirus was extended until April 30 .
There have been calls to scrap the 2019/20 campaign altogether as cases of Covid-19 continue to rise across the UK .
But Barnes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patient to ensure the season comes to a close to determine which clubs go up and which go down .
He told Sky Sports : “ If you ’ re going to give Liverpool the title who will then get relegated and promoted ?
“ You can ’ t just say , “ Liverpool get the title because we ’ re so far ahead ” because then what happens to Leeds , West Brom and Fulham ?
And what happens to the three teams at the bottom of the Premier League .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow this season to take place , however long it takes.
” Albion ’ s fixtures against Birmingham City , Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday were already postponed before today 's announcement and now the clashes with Hull City , Derby County , Blackburn Rovers , Fulham and Huddersfield Town have been called off too .
Barnes continued : “ You have leagues to be finished and I think leagues have to be finished , not just from Liverpool ’ s point of view or any other club in any country .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are talking about promotion and relegation all the way down the divisions .
“ So I think if the leagues can be delayed – you don ’ t have to rush back to them – maybe you have to write off a season .
“ Even if we have to start in July or August , what we have to do is finish these games even if it takes up until December , which writes off the next season .
”

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The Championship season must be finished to give West Bromwich Albion and their promotion rivals the chance to go up to the Premier League.
That’s the view of John Barnes, who says all remaining fixtures have to take place ‘however long it takes’.
Albion learned today their promotion bid has been placed further on hold after the suspension of fixtures due to the coronavirus was extended until April 30.
There have been calls to scrap the 2019/20 campaign altogether as cases of Covid-19 continue to rise across the UK.
But Barnes says football’s decision-makers must remain patient to ensure the season comes to a close to determine which clubs go up and which go down.
He told Sky Sports: “If you’re going to give Liverpool the title who will then get relegated and promoted?
“You can’t just say, “Liverpool get the title because we’re so far ahead” because then what happens to Leeds, West Brom and Fulham? And what happens to the three teams at the bottom of the Premier League.
“I think the best thing is to allow this season to take place, however long it takes.”
Albion’s fixtures against Birmingham City, Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday were already postponed before today's announcement and now the clashes with Hull City, Derby County, Blackburn Rovers, Fulham and Huddersfield Town have been called off too.
Barnes continued: “You have leagues to be finished and I think leagues have to be finished, not just from Liverpool’s point of view or any other club in any country.
“It’s obviously bigger than that, you are talking about promotion and relegation all the way down the divisions.
“So I think if the leagues can be delayed – you don’t have to rush back to them – maybe you have to write off a season.
“Even if we have to start in July or August, what we have to do is finish these games even if it takes up until December, which writes off the next season.”


birminghammail--2020-03-19--Robber banned from town centre after terrifying Co-op staff with 'HIV syringes'

Staff at a Birmingham supermarket were terrified when a robber threatened to infect them with HIV as he held-up a Co-op store .
Drug addict Oneil Briscoe first targeted the Co-op in Church Lane in Handsworth on November 8 when he stuffed items into his rucksack whilst waving an uncapped syringe at a frightened worker .
He then returned to rob the shop three more times between January 5 and 20 , each time terrorising staff and on one occasion brandishing a screwdriver at workers .
The 29-year-old , of no fixed address , also targeted Applegreen petrol station in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistant aside as he took cans of drink before again using a needle to threaten staff as he stole from the Farmfoods store on the same road .
Briscoe , 29 , is now behind bars after Lozells and East Handsworth police officers used CCTV images and local knowledge to link the thief to the offences and arrest him from an address in the Handsworth area a few days after committing the January offences .
He was sentenced to eight years and three months in jail after being convicted of six robberies and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or pointed weapon at Birmingham Crown Court last Friday ( 13 March ) .
In addition he was also banned from the centre of Handsworth for seven years with a Criminal Behaviour Order exclusion order .
Cathryn Orchard , prosecuting , told Birmingham Crown Court : `` The defendant got an uncapped needle out of his pocket and swung it towards the security guard missing him by inches . ''
She said it narrowly missed one of the guard 's colleagues and went on : `` The defendant told them : ' I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have HIV ' .
`` Nobody was going to challenge him in those circumstances . ''

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Staff at a Birmingham supermarket were terrified when a robber threatened to infect them with HIV as he held-up a Co-op store.
Drug addict Oneil Briscoe first targeted the Co-op in Church Lane in Handsworth on November 8 when he stuffed items into his rucksack whilst waving an uncapped syringe at a frightened worker.
He then returned to rob the shop three more times between January 5 and 20, each time terrorising staff and on one occasion brandishing a screwdriver at workers.
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The 29-year-old, of no fixed address, also targeted Applegreen petrol station in Holyhead Road where he shoved a sales assistant aside as he took cans of drink before again using a needle to threaten staff as he stole from the Farmfoods store on the same road.
Briscoe, 29, is now behind bars after Lozells and East Handsworth police officers used CCTV images and local knowledge to link the thief to the offences and arrest him from an address in the Handsworth area a few days after committing the January offences.
He was sentenced to eight years and three months in jail after being convicted of six robberies and three counts of possession of a blade or pointed weapon at Birmingham Crown Court last Friday (13 March).
In addition he was also banned from the centre of Handsworth for seven years with a Criminal Behaviour Order exclusion order.
Cathryn Orchard, prosecuting, told Birmingham Crown Court: "The defendant got an uncapped needle out of his pocket and swung it towards the security guard missing him by inches."
She said it narrowly missed one of the guard's colleagues and went on: "The defendant told them: 'I am going to stab you. I have HIV'.
"Nobody was going to challenge him in those circumstances."


birminghammail--2020-03-19--'Miss Hitler' contestant convicted of being member of banned far-right group

A former Miss Hitler beauty pageant contestant and her ex have been convicted of membership of banned extreme right group National Action .
The gang included Garry Jack , of Birmingham , who was labelled a 'foot soldier ' who had only joined the group a few months before it was banned .
He claimed he was not a racist despite claiming that Handsworth should be 'ethnically cleansed . '
The pageant contestant Alice Cutter , 23 , claimed she had been pestered by others into entering the competition under the name Miss Buchenwald – a reference to the Second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lengthy retrial at Birmingham Crown Court .
She flatly denied being a part of the group , which was labelled “ a racist , anti-Semitic and homophobic organisation ” by then home secretary Amber Rudd when it was banned in December 2016 .
But jurors rejected her denials after hearing evidence , including how Cutter exchanged hundreds of messages , many racist and anti-Semitic , and was still meeting other members months after the ban .
Prosecutors said Cutter , who joked about gassing synagogues and using a Jew ’ s head as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ central spoke ” among the organisation ’ s hard-core , and entered the pageant to drive recruitment .
She claimed never to have considered herself a member , even before the ban , despite attending meetings with group leaders and posing for a Nazi-style salute on the steps of Leeds Town Hall in 2016 .
Cutter also attended a demo in York in May 2016 .
She initially denied attending until footage emerged showing her standing with other masked NA members , giving the Nazi salute behind a banner that read “ Hitler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mark Jones , a former member of the British National Party ’ s youth wing , was also convicted of being a member , after being described by prosecutors as a “ leader and strategist ” .
Jones , who posted messages on Telegram as “ GrandaddyTerror ” , was National Action ’ s London regional organiser and a key designer of the group ’ s propaganda artwork .
He accepted posing for a photograph of him delivering a Nazi-style salute in Buchenwald ’ s execution room while holding a National Action flag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April and May 2016 .
Jones , who told jurors he carried out his death-camp salute as a “ controversial statement ” , also took a selfie inside the room holding the concentration camp ’ s ovens , where the remains of thousands of murdered Jews were incinerated .
Jones and Cutter , both of Sowerby Bridge , near Halifax , Yorkshire , described themselves in court as avowed national socialists , but denied any wrong-doing .
However , the jury at Birmingham Crown Court found both unanimously guilty following a retrial , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nine hours of deliberations .
Having split up in the course of the trial proceedings , they embraced in the dock before being taken down to the cells .
Also convicted of the same offence were 24 year-old Jack , from Heathland Avenue , Shard End , and 19-year-old Connor Scothern , of Bagnall Avenue , Nottingham .
Jack denied taking a photograph found on his phone of graffiti reading “ gas the Jews ” , despite repeatedly using anti-Semitic slurs in message and chat-group exchanges with other members .
The self-confessed Nazi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cultural Marxism ” , told jurors he considered himself a non-violent “ liberal ” in the pre-ban group .
Jack told jurors he was not a racist , despite sending a message saying “ Handsworth – first area in Birmingham that needs ethnic cleansing ” , claiming the remark had been “ tongue in cheek ” .
In a message to his then girlfriend , littered with racist language , he talked of threatening to have “ kerb-stomped ” a black person and , on another occasion , called an Asian male a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been given a one-year suspended jail sentence for plastering Birmingham ’ s Aston University campus with racially-aggravating National Action stickers in July 2016 , some of which read “ Britain is ours , the rest must go ” .
He planted the stickers with Alexander Deakin and Daniel Bogunovic , also since convicted of being group members , and another man , Chad Williams-Allen , of Bird End , West Bromwich .
Scothern , who was a one-time practising Muslim , and an Antifa – anti-fascist activist – before eventually joining National Action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But in messages he sent following the ban in August 2017 , he talked of setting up “ a clear and openly fascist youth movement ” .
He said : “ Even if this land is lost , which I don ’ t think it is , I ’ d rather die than capitulate.
” Addressing the four , Judge Paul Farrer QC , said : “ You have all been convicted of a serious terrorist offence .
“ A date will be be fixed in due course .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Richard Vernalls, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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A former Miss Hitler beauty pageant contestant and her ex have been convicted of membership of banned extreme right group National Action.
The gang included Garry Jack, of Birmingham, who was labelled a 'foot soldier' who had only joined the group a few months before it was banned.
He claimed he was not a racist despite claiming that Handsworth should be 'ethnically cleansed.'
The pageant contestant Alice Cutter, 23, claimed she had been pestered by others into entering the competition under the name Miss Buchenwald – a reference to the Second World War death camp – during a lengthy retrial at Birmingham Crown Court.
She flatly denied being a part of the group, which was labelled “a racist, anti-Semitic and homophobic organisation” by then home secretary Amber Rudd when it was banned in December 2016.
But jurors rejected her denials after hearing evidence, including how Cutter exchanged hundreds of messages, many racist and anti-Semitic, and was still meeting other members months after the ban.
Prosecutors said Cutter, who joked about gassing synagogues and using a Jew’s head as a football, had been a “central spoke” among the organisation’s hard-core, and entered the pageant to drive recruitment.
(Image: West Midlands Police)
She claimed never to have considered herself a member, even before the ban, despite attending meetings with group leaders and posing for a Nazi-style salute on the steps of Leeds Town Hall in 2016.
Cutter also attended a demo in York in May 2016.
She initially denied attending until footage emerged showing her standing with other masked NA members, giving the Nazi salute behind a banner that read “Hitler Was Right”.
Her ex-partner 25-year-old Mark Jones, a former member of the British National Party’s youth wing, was also convicted of being a member, after being described by prosecutors as a “leader and strategist”.
Jones, who posted messages on Telegram as “GrandaddyTerror”, was National Action’s London regional organiser and a key designer of the group’s propaganda artwork.
He accepted posing for a photograph of him delivering a Nazi-style salute in Buchenwald’s execution room while holding a National Action flag, on a trip to Germany in April and May 2016.
Jones, who told jurors he carried out his death-camp salute as a “controversial statement”, also took a selfie inside the room holding the concentration camp’s ovens, where the remains of thousands of murdered Jews were incinerated.
Jones and Cutter, both of Sowerby Bridge, near Halifax, Yorkshire, described themselves in court as avowed national socialists, but denied any wrong-doing.
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However, the jury at Birmingham Crown Court found both unanimously guilty following a retrial, lasting 10 weeks, after less than nine hours of deliberations.
Having split up in the course of the trial proceedings, they embraced in the dock before being taken down to the cells.
Also convicted of the same offence were 24 year-old Jack, from Heathland Avenue, Shard End, and 19-year-old Connor Scothern, of Bagnall Avenue, Nottingham.
Jack denied taking a photograph found on his phone of graffiti reading “gas the Jews”, despite repeatedly using anti-Semitic slurs in message and chat-group exchanges with other members.
The self-confessed Nazi, who said he was against “cultural Marxism”, told jurors he considered himself a non-violent “liberal” in the pre-ban group.
Jack told jurors he was not a racist, despite sending a message saying “Handsworth – first area in Birmingham that needs ethnic cleansing”, claiming the remark had been “tongue in cheek”.
In a message to his then girlfriend, littered with racist language, he talked of threatening to have “kerb-stomped” a black person and, on another occasion, called an Asian male a “f***ing rat”.
Jack had been given a one-year suspended jail sentence for plastering Birmingham’s Aston University campus with racially-aggravating National Action stickers in July 2016, some of which read “Britain is ours, the rest must go”.
He planted the stickers with Alexander Deakin and Daniel Bogunovic, also since convicted of being group members, and another man, Chad Williams-Allen, of Bird End, West Bromwich.
Scothern, who was a one-time practising Muslim, and an Antifa – anti-fascist activist – before eventually joining National Action, did not give evidence at trial.
But in messages he sent following the ban in August 2017, he talked of setting up “a clear and openly fascist youth movement”.
He said: “Even if this land is lost, which I don’t think it is, I’d rather die than capitulate.”
Addressing the four, Judge Paul Farrer QC, said: “You have all been convicted of a serious terrorist offence.
“You cannot be sentenced today.
“A date will be be fixed in due course.”