news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: The lockdown can't last forever, but 'caution' will be the watchword

Coronavirus : The lockdown ca n't last forever , but 'caution ' will be the watchword Coronavirus : The lockdown ca n't last forever , but 'caution ' will be the watchword The lockdown was introduced at the end of March to slow the spread of COVID-19 We are in the seventh week of lockdown and the government is now beginning to draw a roadmap of how we might navigate our way through this crisis now we have passed the peak of the epidemic .
On Monday , officials at the business department held talks with employers , trade unions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pull together a plan to get the country back to work .
Sky News has seen all seven of the guidance documents drawn up by ministers - taking in workplaces from hotels and restaurant staff to factory , shop and office workers - that forms the basis of getting people back to work in the coming weeks .
Employers will be expected to help staff and customers maintain the 2m ( 6.5ft ) distance , and most employees will work from home .
In factories and warehouses , equipment should be cleaned frequently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shops will have to limit the number of customers through their doors .
Hotels will have to keep bars and restaurants closed .
An obvious omission in each document is instructions on the use of face masks and personal protective equipment .
On that , it 's `` guidance to follow '' .
This is all too vague for the unions , who want far more detailed guidelines and have stressed to ministers and officials they can not sign up to these plans unless they issue binding requirements around worker safety rather than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figure told me : `` We need to make sure workers feel safe and we want proper guidance on masks and personal protective equipment .
We want clear instructions to employers .
`` The government are looking at it from a political point of view of soundbites and moving to a new phase .
We are looking at it from a safety and practical point of view . ''
The conversations are beginning behind closed doors , but in the coming days it will become a national conversation between the government and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and , critically , convince people to return to work and send their children back to school .
`` It 's going to take a bit of time , '' one union figure told me .
`` We 've got to take people on a journey to get them back to work .
They are anxious and they have watched as tens of thousands of people have died .
So the concern is real . ''
You can see how the government is preparing the ground to move the public on .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ app - being trialled this week on the Isle of Wight - to make it easier to track the virus and prevent it spreading through the population by alerting users when they have come into contact with someone who has had coronavirus symptoms .
Another will be the use of masks , with the prime minister last week saying that he believed face coverings `` will be useful '' in terms of slowing the spread and giving people `` confidence '' to return to the workplace .
Then there is the science and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the disease .
Mr Johnson announced on his return to Downing Street last Monday that his priority was to keep the reproduction rate of the disease - the R0 - below one to stop the spread .
This metric will form the backbone of the government 's strategy in convincing the public that the risk of being outside their home is diminishing .
Lifting the lockdown will not be a linear path .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to easing us back into a `` new normal '' of living with the disease as we await a vaccine or effective treatments , but ministers will have to bend our freedoms and restrictions to the shape of the disease .
Local areas could be put back into lockdown if spikes in the disease pop up .
It is all designed to show the public the government has a handle on the epidemic .
The lockdown can not last like this forever .
Our children need to return to school , our businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs to get back to work .
But the watchword will be caution .
Our streets , our trains , our tubes are not going to be as they once were for some time yet .

Behind closed doors, the conversations have begun. In the days to come it will become a national conversation.
Coronavirus: The lockdown can't last forever, but 'caution' will be the watchword
The lockdown was introduced at the end of March to slow the spread of COVID-19
We are in the seventh week of lockdown and the government is now beginning to draw a roadmap of how we might navigate our way through this crisis now we have passed the peak of the epidemic.
On Monday, officials at the business department held talks with employers, trade unions and industry bodies as they try to pull together a plan to get the country back to work.
Sky News has seen all seven of the guidance documents drawn up by ministers - taking in workplaces from hotels and restaurant staff to factory, shop and office workers - that forms the basis of getting people back to work in the coming weeks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 How will the UK get back to work?
Employers will be expected to help staff and customers maintain the 2m (6.5ft) distance, and most employees will work from home. In factories and warehouses, equipment should be cleaned frequently and employers should consider staggering shifts.
Shops will have to limit the number of customers through their doors. Hotels will have to keep bars and restaurants closed.
An obvious omission in each document is instructions on the use of face masks and personal protective equipment. On that, it's "guidance to follow".
This is all too vague for the unions, who want far more detailed guidelines and have stressed to ministers and officials they cannot sign up to these plans unless they issue binding requirements around worker safety rather than just advice.
As one senior union figure told me: "We need to make sure workers feel safe and we want proper guidance on masks and personal protective equipment. We want clear instructions to employers.
"The government are looking at it from a political point of view of soundbites and moving to a new phase. We are looking at it from a safety and practical point of view."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:43 Isle of Wight residents to trial new app
The conversations are beginning behind closed doors, but in the coming days it will become a national conversation between the government and the public about how to lift the lockdown and, critically, convince people to return to work and send their children back to school.
"It's going to take a bit of time," one union figure told me.
"We've got to take people on a journey to get them back to work. They are anxious and they have watched as tens of thousands of people have died. So the concern is real."
You can see how the government is preparing the ground to move the public on.
One key tool will be a new contact-tracing app - being trialled this week on the Isle of Wight - to make it easier to track the virus and prevent it spreading through the population by alerting users when they have come into contact with someone who has had coronavirus symptoms.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:06 'It's humanity against the virus'
Another will be the use of masks, with the prime minister last week saying that he believed face coverings "will be useful" in terms of slowing the spread and giving people "confidence" to return to the workplace.
Then there is the science and the laser focus on the reproduction rate of the disease.
Mr Johnson announced on his return to Downing Street last Monday that his priority was to keep the reproduction rate of the disease - the R0 - below one to stop the spread.
This metric will form the backbone of the government's strategy in convincing the public that the risk of being outside their home is diminishing.
Lifting the lockdown will not be a linear path.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The UK government wants to take a national approach to easing us back into a "new normal" of living with the disease as we await a vaccine or effective treatments, but ministers will have to bend our freedoms and restrictions to the shape of the disease.
Local areas could be put back into lockdown if spikes in the disease pop up. It is all designed to show the public the government has a handle on the epidemic.
The lockdown cannot last like this forever.
Our children need to return to school, our businesses need to start operating again. Britain needs to get back to work.
But the watchword will be caution. Our streets, our trains, our tubes are not going to be as they once were for some time yet.


news--2020-06-12--Coronavirus: EasyJet founder sells £13m stake amid row

The founder of easyJet is selling shares in the airline for the first time since 2015 amid continuing tensions with its board about a multibillion pound aircraft order .
Sky News has learnt that the concert party of shareholders comprising Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou and members of his family sold a chunk of stock for £13m on Friday .
The disposal , which takes Sir Stelios 's stake down to just under 33 % , comes three weeks after the tycoon lost a bid to oust four easyJet board members .
Since that extraordinary general meeting was held on 22 May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resigned anyway , along with two non-executive directors - including deputy chairman Charles Gurassa .
The news of Sir Stelios 's decision to sell easyJet shares for the first time in nearly five years has emerged on the day that the airline formally launched a joint legal action with Ryanair and British Airways ' parent company , International Airlines Group , to force the government to scrap its 14-day quarantine for passengers arriving in the UK .
Like other carriers , easyJet has announced plans to axe thousands of jobs because of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company to abandon a £4.5bn order with Airbus for new planes and has publicly predicted that the company will go bust unless it does .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The tycoon , who founded easyJet in 1995 before floating it five years later , has offered a £5m `` bounty '' for information from a whistleblower that leads to the order being cancelled .
A filing about the change in Sir Stelios 's concert party 's shareholding is expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later on Friday or early next week .

The founder of easyJet is selling shares in the airline for the first time since 2015 amid continuing tensions with its board about a multibillion pound aircraft order.
Sky News has learnt that the concert party of shareholders comprising Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou and members of his family sold a chunk of stock for £13m on Friday.
Image: The stock disposal takes the tycoon's stake down to just under 33%
The disposal, which takes Sir Stelios's stake down to just under 33%, comes three weeks after the tycoon lost a bid to oust four easyJet board members.
Since that extraordinary general meeting was held on 22 May, the company's finance chief has resigned anyway, along with two non-executive directors - including deputy chairman Charles Gurassa.
The news of Sir Stelios's decision to sell easyJet shares for the first time in nearly five years has emerged on the day that the airline formally launched a joint legal action with Ryanair and British Airways' parent company, International Airlines Group, to force the government to scrap its 14-day quarantine for passengers arriving in the UK.
Like other carriers, easyJet has announced plans to axe thousands of jobs because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Sir Stelios wants the company to abandon a £4.5bn order with Airbus for new planes and has publicly predicted that the company will go bust unless it does.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The tycoon, who founded easyJet in 1995 before floating it five years later, has offered a £5m "bounty" for information from a whistleblower that leads to the order being cancelled.
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A filing about the change in Sir Stelios's concert party's shareholding is expected to be disclosed by the London Stock Exchange later on Friday or early next week.
A spokesman for easyGroup declined to comment.


news--2020-06-12--Coronavirus: UK economy nosedives by a quarter during lockdown

Britain 's economy slumped by a quarter over the coronavirus lockdown , according to the Office for National Statistics .
It comes after the UK suffered the biggest collapse in GDP ever seen - plunging by 20.4 % in April .
Taken together with the 5.8 % fall recorded in the previous month when the COVID-19 restrictions came into force , the economy was around 25 % smaller in April than it was in February , said statisticians .
The grim data underlines the damage inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic , which saw many businesses shut down in a bid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reacting to the figures , health minister Edward Argar told Sky News the drop was `` clearly a significant contraction '' but was `` not unexpected '' given the health crisis .
Widespread contractions across the economy contributed to the fall in GDP .
In the three months to April , the ONS data shows that accommodation and food services plummeted by 40.1 % , with the closure of hotels , bars and restaurants throughout March and April .
Manufacturing and construction also saw significant falls of 10.5 % and 18.2 % respectively @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happened to the economy in May until next month , but it is likely to show another dramatic drop , as it covers the a period before restrictions started to ease in some parts of the economy .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said : `` In line with many other economies around the world , coronavirus is having a severe impact on our economy .
`` The lifelines we 've provided with our furlough scheme , grants , loans and tax cuts have protected thousands of businesses and millions of jobs - giving us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy reopens .
`` We 've set out our plan to gradually and safely reopen the economy .
Next week , more shops on the high street will be able to open again as we start to get our lives a little bit more back to normal . ''
Labour 's shadow chancellor Anneliese Dodds raised concerns the economic hit to the UK was likely to be worse than other developed countries .
Speaking to Sky News , she said : `` We have urged the chancellor to look again at what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all ' approach to economic support , putting all the different sectors together .
`` You can just imagine the situation for a hairdresser or people who work in a pub , they are not going to be able to return to work for really quite some time and unless support is provided for them we will see an extra wave of unemployment coming in . ''
Jonathan Athow , deputy national statistician for economic statistics , said : `` April 's fall in GDP is the biggest the UK has ever seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last month and almost 10 times larger than the steepest pre-COVID-19 fall .
`` In April , the economy was around 25 % smaller than in February .
`` Virtually all areas of the economy were hit , with pubs , education , health and car sales all giving the biggest contributions to this historic fall .
`` Manufacturing and construction also saw significant falls , with manufacture of cars and housebuilding particularly badly affected .
`` The UK 's trade with the rest of the world was also badly affected by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the import and export of cars , fuels , works of art and clothing . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker CBI lead economist Alpesh Paleja said : `` This data confirms what we already knew - that the economy was hit hard as it entered lockdown .
`` The government has listened to business ' needs , and reflected them well in the schemes currently in place .
`` Going forward , both the Job Retention Scheme and financing support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the evolving economic situation .
`` This will leave us well placed to build an ambitious vision for our economic recovery , one that prioritises jobs , investment and tackling pre-crisis inequalities across our society . ''
Scale of the monumental fall is enough to take the breath away Ed Conway , economics editor Everyone knew it would be bad .
But this bad ?
We have never seen economic output fall as sharply as it did in the month of April .
We will almost certainly never see anything like it again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something a bit like this - a monumental fall as the economy went into lockdown - the scale of it is nonetheless enough to take the breath away .
Put April 's 20.4 % contraction together with March 's fall and you 're talking about the UK economy being a quarter smaller than it was before COVID-19 hit .
When the Bank of England and Office for Budget Responsibility said a month or two ago that we were facing a recession the likes of which this country had n't seen for three centuries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It turns out they might have even been a bit conservative with their economic scenarios .
Gross domestic product , it 's worth saying , may be a bit of economic terminology , but it matters for all of us .
For it is very simply a count of all the money generated and economic activity carried out across the UK in a given period .
It is , for all its faults , the best measure of how well we are doing as an economy , how much income we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collapse like this is of deep significance .
It goes without saying that the UK is in recession : we all knew that .
It also goes without saying that this will be a very unusual recession - unusually deep but with an unusually quick bounce back .
The real question is how soon that bounce happens and how close it takes the economy to where it was before the virus struck .
And on that front the news is quite worrying .
Most economists long ago gave up on the idea of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are back to where we were within a few months .
Instead the expectation , one fuelled by the OECD 's latest forecasts earlier this week , is that it will take many years to get back to where we started .
And the longer lockdown goes on for , the deeper the recession will be .

Britain's economy slumped by a quarter over the coronavirus lockdown, according to the Office for National Statistics.
It comes after the UK suffered the biggest collapse in GDP ever seen - plunging by 20.4% in April.
Taken together with the 5.8% fall recorded in the previous month when the COVID-19 restrictions came into force, the economy was around 25% smaller in April than it was in February, said statisticians.
The grim data underlines the damage inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic, which saw many businesses shut down in a bid to curb the spread of infection.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 13:11 GDP: 'Clearly significant contraction'
Reacting to the figures, health minister Edward Argar told Sky News the drop was "clearly a significant contraction" but was "not unexpected" given the health crisis.
Widespread contractions across the economy contributed to the fall in GDP.
In the three months to April, the ONS data shows that accommodation and food services plummeted by 40.1%, with the closure of hotels, bars and restaurants throughout March and April.
Manufacturing and construction also saw significant falls of 10.5% and 18.2% respectively.
The ONS will not reveal what happened to the economy in May until next month, but it is likely to show another dramatic drop, as it covers the a period before restrictions started to ease in some parts of the economy.
Advertisement
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: "In line with many other economies around the world, coronavirus is having a severe impact on our economy.
"The lifelines we've provided with our furlough scheme, grants, loans and tax cuts have protected thousands of businesses and millions of jobs - giving us the best chance of recovering quickly as the economy reopens.
"We've set out our plan to gradually and safely reopen the economy. Next week, more shops on the high street will be able to open again as we start to get our lives a little bit more back to normal."
Labour's shadow chancellor Anneliese Dodds raised concerns the economic hit to the UK was likely to be worse than other developed countries.
Speaking to Sky News, she said: "We have urged the chancellor to look again at what seems to be a 'one size fits all' approach to economic support, putting all the different sectors together.
"You can just imagine the situation for a hairdresser or people who work in a pub, they are not going to be able to return to work for really quite some time and unless support is provided for them we will see an extra wave of unemployment coming in."
Jonathan Athow, deputy national statistician for economic statistics, said: "April's fall in GDP is the biggest the UK has ever seen, more than three times larger than last month and almost 10 times larger than the steepest pre-COVID-19 fall.
"In April, the economy was around 25% smaller than in February.
"Virtually all areas of the economy were hit, with pubs, education, health and car sales all giving the biggest contributions to this historic fall.
"Manufacturing and construction also saw significant falls, with manufacture of cars and housebuilding particularly badly affected.
"The UK's trade with the rest of the world was also badly affected by the pandemic, with large falls in both the import and export of cars, fuels, works of art and clothing."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
CBI lead economist Alpesh Paleja said: "This data confirms what we already knew - that the economy was hit hard as it entered lockdown.
"The government has listened to business' needs, and reflected them well in the schemes currently in place.
"Going forward, both the Job Retention Scheme and financing support programmes should remain agile and responsive to the evolving economic situation.
"This will leave us well placed to build an ambitious vision for our economic recovery, one that prioritises jobs, investment and tackling pre-crisis inequalities across our society."
Scale of the monumental fall is enough to take the breath away
Ed Conway, economics editor
Everyone knew it would be bad. But this bad?
We have never seen economic output fall as sharply as it did in the month of April. We will almost certainly never see anything like it again.
And while most of us expected something a bit like this - a monumental fall as the economy went into lockdown - the scale of it is nonetheless enough to take the breath away.
Put April's 20.4% contraction together with March's fall and you're talking about the UK economy being a quarter smaller than it was before COVID-19 hit.
When the Bank of England and Office for Budget Responsibility said a month or two ago that we were facing a recession the likes of which this country hadn't seen for three centuries, some thought them guilty of hyperbole.
It turns out they might have even been a bit conservative with their economic scenarios.
Gross domestic product, it's worth saying, may be a bit of economic terminology, but it matters for all of us.
For it is very simply a count of all the money generated and economic activity carried out across the UK in a given period.
It is, for all its faults, the best measure of how well we are doing as an economy, how much income we are generating and sharing out. So a collapse like this is of deep significance.
It goes without saying that the UK is in recession: we all knew that.
It also goes without saying that this will be a very unusual recession - unusually deep but with an unusually quick bounce back.
The real question is how soon that bounce happens and how close it takes the economy to where it was before the virus struck.
And on that front the news is quite worrying.
Most economists long ago gave up on the idea of a quick, V-shaped recovery where we are back to where we were within a few months.
Instead the expectation, one fuelled by the OECD's latest forecasts earlier this week, is that it will take many years to get back to where we started.
And the longer lockdown goes on for, the deeper the recession will be.


news--2020-06-26--Coronavirus: Bank of England 'ready to take action' after economy tanks 20%

The head of the Bank of England has said it stands `` ready to take action '' after the UK suffered a record economic collapse over the coronavirus lockdown .
However , while governor Andrew Bailey acknowledged the 20.4 % drop in GDP in April was `` a dramatic and big number '' , he said there were `` signs of the economy now beginning to come back to life '' .
His comments came after the Office for National Statistics said the economy was around 25 % smaller in April than it was in February , before the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underlined the damage inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic , which saw many businesses shut down in a bid to curb the spread of infection .
Mr Bailey said : `` Obviously it 's a dramatic and big number .
But it 's not surprising , the economy clearly closed out substantially at the end of March into April , so not surprising .
`` The big question is what happens next .
We 've been monitoring a lot of very high frequency data these days ... which is why , we had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to happen in April .
`` We see signs of the economy now beginning to come back to life in the high frequency data .
`` Obviously it 's early days .
I do n't want to emphasise too much .
It 's a gradual coming back into life .
But we do see those signs .
So I think that 's evidence of things starting up again . ''
But he argued the big question was how much long-term economic damage the public health emergency had caused .
Mr Bailey said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got to be very focused on , because that 's where jobs get lost .
`` Now we hope that will be as small as possible , but we have to be ready and ready to take action , not just the Bank of England , but more broadly on what we can do to offset those longer-term and damaging effects .
`` So we stand ready to take action .
We 've already taken very big action , and that 's still going on I should say .
And we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still very much in the midst of this . ''
Widespread contractions across the economy contributed to the fall in GDP .
In the three months to April , the ONS data shows that accommodation and food services plummeted by 40.1 % , with the closure of hotels , bars and restaurants throughout March and April .
Manufacturing and construction also saw significant falls of 10.5 % and 18.2 % respectively .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the figures were no surprise as Britain 's huge services sector was being hit particularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expressed confidence that the economy `` will bounce back '' .
Scale of the monumental fall is enough to take the breath away Ed Conway , economics editor Everyone knew it would be bad .
But this bad ?
We have never seen economic output fall as sharply as it did in the month of April .
We will almost certainly never see anything like it again .
And while most of us expected something a bit like this - a monumental fall as the economy went into lockdown - the scale of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breath away .
Put April 's 20.4 % contraction together with March 's fall and you 're talking about the UK economy being a quarter smaller than it was before COVID-19 hit .
When the Bank of England and Office for Budget Responsibility said a month or two ago that we were facing a recession the likes of which this country had n't seen for three centuries , some thought them guilty of hyperbole .
It turns out they might have even been a bit conservative with their economic scenarios .
Gross domestic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may be a bit of economic terminology , but it matters for all of us .
For it is very simply a count of all the money generated and economic activity carried out across the UK in a given period .
It is , for all its faults , the best measure of how well we are doing as an economy , how much income we are generating and sharing out .
So a collapse like this is of deep significance .
It goes without saying that the UK is in recession : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes without saying that this will be a very unusual recession - unusually deep but with an unusually quick bounce back .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The real question is how soon that bounce happens and how close it takes the economy to where it was before the virus struck .
And on that front the news is quite worrying .
Most economists long ago gave up on the idea of a quick , V-shaped recovery where we are back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
Instead the expectation , one fuelled by the OECD 's latest forecasts earlier this week , is that it will take many years to get back to where we started .
And the longer lockdown goes on for , the deeper the recession will be .

The head of the Bank of England has said it stands "ready to take action" after the UK suffered a record economic collapse over the coronavirus lockdown.
However, while governor Andrew Bailey acknowledged the 20.4% drop in GDP in April was "a dramatic and big number", he said there were "signs of the economy now beginning to come back to life".
His comments came after the Office for National Statistics said the economy was around 25% smaller in April than it was in February, before the COVID-19 restrictions came into force.
The figures underlined the damage inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic, which saw many businesses shut down in a bid to curb the spread of infection.
Mr Bailey said: "Obviously it's a dramatic and big number. But it's not surprising, the economy clearly closed out substantially at the end of March into April, so not surprising.
"The big question is what happens next. We've been monitoring a lot of very high frequency data these days... which is why, we had a reasonably good read on what was going to happen in April.
"We see signs of the economy now beginning to come back to life in the high frequency data.
"Obviously it's early days. I don't want to emphasise too much. It's a gradual coming back into life. But we do see those signs. So I think that's evidence of things starting up again."
But he argued the big question was how much long-term economic damage the public health emergency had caused.
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Mr Bailey said: "That's the thing we've got to be very focused on, because that's where jobs get lost.
"Now we hope that will be as small as possible, but we have to be ready and ready to take action, not just the Bank of England, but more broadly on what we can do to offset those longer-term and damaging effects.
"So we stand ready to take action. We've already taken very big action, and that's still going on I should say. And we have to be ready for that because we are still very much in the midst of this."
Image: Andrew Bailey acknowledges the unprecedented drop in GDP is 'a dramatic and big number'
Widespread contractions across the economy contributed to the fall in GDP.
In the three months to April, the ONS data shows that accommodation and food services plummeted by 40.1%, with the closure of hotels, bars and restaurants throughout March and April.
Manufacturing and construction also saw significant falls of 10.5% and 18.2% respectively.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:32 PM: 'We are a resilient and dynamic economy'
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the figures were no surprise as Britain's huge services sector was being hit
particularly hard by social distancing measures, but expressed confidence that the economy "will bounce back".
Scale of the monumental fall is enough to take the breath away
Ed Conway, economics editor
Everyone knew it would be bad. But this bad?
We have never seen economic output fall as sharply as it did in the month of April. We will almost certainly never see anything like it again.
And while most of us expected something a bit like this - a monumental fall as the economy went into lockdown - the scale of it is nonetheless enough to take the breath away.
Put April's 20.4% contraction together with March's fall and you're talking about the UK economy being a quarter smaller than it was before COVID-19 hit.
When the Bank of England and Office for Budget Responsibility said a month or two ago that we were facing a recession the likes of which this country hadn't seen for three centuries, some thought them guilty of hyperbole.
It turns out they might have even been a bit conservative with their economic scenarios.
Gross domestic product, it's worth saying, may be a bit of economic terminology, but it matters for all of us.
For it is very simply a count of all the money generated and economic activity carried out across the UK in a given period.
It is, for all its faults, the best measure of how well we are doing as an economy, how much income we are generating and sharing out. So a collapse like this is of deep significance.
It goes without saying that the UK is in recession: we all knew that.
It also goes without saying that this will be a very unusual recession - unusually deep but with an unusually quick bounce back.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The real question is how soon that bounce happens and how close it takes the economy to where it was before the virus struck.
And on that front the news is quite worrying.
Most economists long ago gave up on the idea of a quick, V-shaped recovery where we are back to where we were within a few months.
Instead the expectation, one fuelled by the OECD's latest forecasts earlier this week, is that it will take many years to get back to where we started.
And the longer lockdown goes on for, the deeper the recession will be.


news--2020-06-12--Marcus Rashford: Manchester United striker helps £20m children's meal fund

Footballer Marcus Rashford has vowed he will `` keep fighting until no child in the UK has to worry about where their next meal is coming from '' .
The Manchester United striker has been working with charity FareShare during the coronavirus lockdown , which originally aimed to raise £100,000 to help supply food to children who usually have free school meals , but are currently unable to access them .
That target was reached in a matter of days and Rashford , 22 , has already helped raise more than £20m for the charity .
The England international announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ target , to raise enough money by the end of June to supply three million meals to vulnerable people , has now been reached .
In a message to his followers on Twitter he wrote : `` Guys , I have amazing news !
`` We had a goal that by end of June we would be able to supply 3 million meals to vulnerable people across the UK .
Today we have met the financial goal to provide these meals .
Thank you all so much for the support .
`` And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is so much more to do .
`` Trust me when I say , I will keep fighting until no child in the UK has to worry about where their next meal is coming from .
This is England in 2020 and families need help . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Last week , Rashford received a special recognition award from the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester for his charity work .
He said : `` From being young I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a position that I could help I would and I 'm so proud of what we 've achieved so far . ''
He added : `` We wo n't stop until children and their parents no longer have to worry about where their next meal is coming from . ''

Footballer Marcus Rashford has vowed he will "keep fighting until no child in the UK has to worry about where their next meal is coming from".
The Manchester United striker has been working with charity FareShare during the coronavirus lockdown, which originally aimed to raise £100,000 to help supply food to children who usually have free school meals, but are currently unable to access them.
That target was reached in a matter of days and Rashford, 22, has already helped raise more than £20m for the charity.
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The England international announced on social media on Thursday a new target, to raise enough money by the end of June to supply three million meals to vulnerable people, has now been reached.
In a message to his followers on Twitter he wrote: "Guys, I have amazing news!
"We had a goal that by end of June we would be able to supply 3 million meals to vulnerable people across the UK. Today we have met the financial goal to provide these meals. Thank you all so much for the support.
"And whilst I'm celebrating this, there is so much more to do.
"Trust me when I say, I will keep fighting until no child in the UK has to worry about where their next meal is coming from. This is England in 2020 and families need help."
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Last week, Rashford received a special recognition award from the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester for his charity work.
He said: "From being young I knew that if I ever got in a position that I could help I would and I'm so proud of what we've achieved so far."
He added: "We won't stop until children and their parents no longer have to worry about where their next meal is coming from."


news--2020-06-11--Twitter says Chinese Communist Party ran tens of thousands of fake accounts

Twitter has confirmed that tens of thousands of accounts operated on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party have been targeting the Chinese diaspora with propaganda .
More than 23,000 accounts were identified at the core of the propaganda network , with another 150,000 accounts used to amplify their tweets , the company announced .
Twitter is now adding the tweets from the 23,750 accounts to its information operation archive , which the social media site established following the Russian state 's attempt to abuse the platform to manipulate the US elections in 2016 .
According to the company , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempting to expand the influence of the Chinese Communist Party abroad using a network `` involved in a range of manipulative and coordinated activities '' .
The network was uncovered by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute ( ASPI ) which said the propaganda was primarily focused on undermining support for the Hong Kong protesters last September .
Also regularly mentioned was the exiled Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui , and to a lesser extent the coronavirus pandemic and the independent state of Taiwan , which China claims sovereignty over .
These topics are seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to ASPI , which said they provide `` insight into how China 's party-state views external threats to its political power '' .
The accounts were also used to `` weaponise the US government 's response to domestic protest and civil unrest in order to create the perception of moral equivalence with the suppression of protest in Hong Kong '' the government funded think-tank warned .
`` While the Chinese Communist Party wo n't allow the Chinese people to use Twitter , our analysis shows it is happy to use it to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said ASPI 's Fergus Hanson .
`` Persistent , covert and deceptive influence operations like this one demonstrate the extent to which the party-state will target external threats to its political power .
`` Twitter 's initiative in making these datasets available for scrutiny is a powerful step in pushing back against this corrosion of the information environment , '' added Mr Hanson who directs ASPI 's International Cyber Policy Centre .
The accounts , which have now all been suspended , tweeted 348,608 times according to Twitter , although few had many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Chinese Communist Party which has ruled China country for more than 70 years , and was behind another 200,000 accounts which the company suspended last August .
The new network 's activity around COVID-19 began to build up in late January and spiked in late March , Twitter said .
False accounts spread narratives which praised China 's response to the outbreak while also using it to antagonise the US and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong .
Twitter is also adding another 1,152 accounts which have been tied to state-backed political propaganda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as 7,340 accounts doing the same for President Erdogan in Turkey .
Renee DiResta of the Stanford Internet Observatory welcomed Twitter making this information public - something which no other social media platform does .
`` Twitter 's transparency around takedowns , and their methods for ensuring access to data for researchers , offer a model for other companies to follow .
`` Collaborative research provides us with a way to learn from past operations and mitigate future malign efforts , '' Ms DiResta said .

Twitter has confirmed that tens of thousands of accounts operated on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party have been targeting the Chinese diaspora with propaganda.
More than 23,000 accounts were identified at the core of the propaganda network, with another 150,000 accounts used to amplify their tweets, the company announced.
Twitter is now adding the tweets from the 23,750 accounts to its information operation archive, which the social media site established following the Russian state's attempt to abuse the platform to manipulate the US elections in 2016.
Image: The propaganda mainly targeted the Hong Kong protests
According to the company, the campaign had been run since early 2017 attempting to expand the influence of the Chinese Communist Party abroad using a network "involved in a range of manipulative and coordinated activities".
The network was uncovered by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) which said the propaganda was primarily focused on undermining support for the Hong Kong protesters last September.
Also regularly mentioned was the exiled Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui, and to a lesser extent the coronavirus pandemic and the independent state of Taiwan, which China claims sovereignty over.
These topics are seen as priorities for the Chinese Communist Party according to ASPI, which said they provide "insight into how China's party-state views external threats to its political power".
The accounts were also used to "weaponise the US government's response to domestic protest and civil unrest in order to create the perception of moral equivalence with the suppression of protest in Hong Kong" the government funded think-tank warned.
"While the Chinese Communist Party won't allow the Chinese people to use Twitter, our analysis shows it is happy to use it to sow propaganda and disinformation internationally," said ASPI's Fergus Hanson.
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"Persistent, covert and deceptive influence operations like this one demonstrate the extent to which the party-state will target external threats to its political power.
"Twitter's initiative in making these datasets available for scrutiny is a powerful step in pushing back against this corrosion of the information environment," added Mr Hanson who directs ASPI's International Cyber Policy Centre.
Image: The Communist Party has ruled China for more than 70 years
The accounts, which have now all been suspended, tweeted 348,608 times according to Twitter, although few had many followers.
Twitter attributed the campaign to the Chinese Communist Party which has ruled China country for more than 70 years, and was behind another 200,000 accounts which the company suspended last August.
The new network's activity around COVID-19 began to build up in late January and spiked in late March, Twitter said.
False accounts spread narratives which praised China's response to the outbreak while also using it to antagonise the US and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong.
Image: The network also praised China's response to the pandemic
Twitter is also adding another 1,152 accounts which have been tied to state-backed political propaganda within Russia to its archive, as well as 7,340 accounts doing the same for President Erdogan in Turkey.
Renee DiResta of the Stanford Internet Observatory welcomed Twitter making this information public - something which no other social media platform does.
"Twitter's transparency around takedowns, and their methods for ensuring access to data for researchers, offer a model for other companies to follow.
"Collaborative research provides us with a way to learn from past operations and mitigate future malign efforts," Ms DiResta said.


news--2020-06-11--Windrush: Human rights watchdog reviewing UK's 'hostile environment' policy

Britain 's human rights watchdog is reviewing the Home Office 's `` hostile environment '' immigration policy that led to the Windrush scandal .
The Equality and Human Rights Commission ( EHRC ) is using its legal powers to assess whether , and how , the Home Office complied with its equality duties when devising policies that impacted the Windrush generation .
It will develop recommendations by September .
The watchdog highlighted the recent Black Lives Matter protests - following the killing of George Floyd in the US - and the impact of coronavirus on BAME communities for adding urgency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entrenched race inequalities '' in the UK .
The phrase `` hostile environment '' was notably used by former prime minister Theresa May during her six-year spell in charge of the Home Office to describe the government 's approach to dealing with illegal immigration .
It was blamed for immigration problems suffered by Caribbean migrants , some of whom were detained or deported despite having the right to live in Britain .
An independent report published in March , authored by Wendy Williams , found the Windrush scandal was `` foreseeable and avoidable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Home Office 's `` systemic operational failings '' .
EHRC chair David Isaac said : `` The Windrush scandal and hostile environment policies have cast a shadow across the UK and its values .
`` We are working with the Home Office to determine what must change so that this shameful period of our history is not repeated .
`` The impact of COVID-19 and the killing of George Floyd by US police officers has resulted in urgent calls for action to end the systemic and entrenched race inequalities that exist in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that all public bodies must promote inclusivity and opportunity by considering the impact their policies have on ethnic minorities .
`` We have long called for government to produce a comprehensive race equality strategy to tackle these injustices .
`` This assessment and the Home Office 's response to the recommendations in Wendy Williams 's report will focus on the importance of Public Sector Equality Duty to put our country 's values on track .
`` This work is part of our long-term strategy to tackle structural inequalities in Britain by ensuring public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` In this 10th year of the Equality Act , we will work with government to put equality at the heart of its decision-making so that everyone has a fair chance to thrive . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Labour 's shadow home secretary , Nick Thomas-Symonds , said : `` This is a damning indictment of the Conservatives and their failing of the Windrush generation .
`` It is an absolute scandal that the government allowed this situation to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to address quickly the deep hurt caused , including being so slow to process the compensation people are due . ''
Fellow Labour MP David Lammy , who was among more than 80 MPs to refer the Home Office to the EHRC last year , said : `` It is absolutely right that the EHRC has taken the unprecedented step of beginning legal action to review whether the Home Office broke equality laws in its appalling treatment of the Windrush generation . ''
The Home Office said Priti Patel , the current home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she could to `` right the wrongs '' endured by the Windrush generation .
`` We are carefully considering the findings of the Windrush lessons learned review and will respond shortly to those important recommendations , '' a spokesman said .
`` We will also work with the EHRC on the review they have launched . ''

Britain's human rights watchdog is reviewing the Home Office's "hostile environment" immigration policy that led to the Windrush scandal.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is using its legal powers to assess whether, and how, the Home Office complied with its equality duties when devising policies that impacted the Windrush generation.
It will develop recommendations by September.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 'People traumatised' by Windrush scandal
The watchdog highlighted the recent Black Lives Matter protests - following the killing of George Floyd in the US - and the impact of coronavirus on BAME communities for adding urgency to calls to end "systemic and entrenched race inequalities" in the UK.
The phrase "hostile environment" was notably used by former prime minister Theresa May during her six-year spell in charge of the Home Office to describe the government's approach to dealing with illegal immigration.
It was blamed for immigration problems suffered by Caribbean migrants, some of whom were detained or deported despite having the right to live in Britain.
An independent report published in March, authored by Wendy Williams, found the Windrush scandal was "foreseeable and avoidable" and victims were let down by the Home Office's "systemic operational failings".
EHRC chair David Isaac said: "The Windrush scandal and hostile environment policies have cast a shadow across the UK and its values.
"We are working with the Home Office to determine what must change so that this shameful period of our history is not repeated.
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"The impact of COVID-19 and the killing of George Floyd by US police officers has resulted in urgent calls for action to end the systemic and entrenched race inequalities that exist in our country.
"The law requires that all public bodies must promote inclusivity and opportunity by considering the impact their policies have on ethnic minorities.
"We have long called for government to produce a comprehensive race equality strategy to tackle these injustices.
"This assessment and the Home Office's response to the recommendations in Wendy Williams's report will focus on the importance of Public Sector Equality Duty to put our country's values on track.
"This work is part of our long-term strategy to tackle structural inequalities in Britain by ensuring public bodies use the PSED more effectively.
"In this 10th year of the Equality Act, we will work with government to put equality at the heart of its decision-making so that everyone has a fair chance to thrive."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Labour's shadow home secretary, Nick Thomas-Symonds, said: "This is a damning indictment of the Conservatives and their failing of the Windrush generation.
"It is an absolute scandal that the government allowed this situation to arise and unforgivable that it has failed to address quickly the deep hurt caused, including being so slow to process the compensation people are due."
Fellow Labour MP David Lammy, who was among more than 80 MPs to refer the Home Office to the EHRC last year, said: "It is absolutely right that the EHRC has taken the unprecedented step of beginning legal action to review whether the Home Office broke equality laws in its appalling treatment of the Windrush generation."
The Home Office said Priti Patel, the current home secretary, was determined to do all she could to "right the wrongs" endured by the Windrush generation.
"We are carefully considering the findings of the Windrush lessons learned review and will respond shortly to those important recommendations," a spokesman said.
"We will also work with the EHRC on the review they have launched."


news--2020-06-12--Coronavirus: Which areas have taken the biggest economic hit of the lockdown?

Hotels , pubs and restaurants have borne the brunt of the economic havoc caused by the coronavirus pandemic , official figures show .
While nearly every part of the economy has shrunk as a result of the COVID-19 crisis - contributing to a record drop in GDP of 20.4 % - the closure-hit food and accommodation sector has seen the biggest downturn , plummeting by 40.9 % in the three months to April .
With people advised to stay at home and avoid travelling in a bid to curb the spread of the coronavirus , the transport sector contracted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economically important construction industry , including housebuilding , also took a similar-sized hit - recording a fall of 18.2 % .
The closure of most shops during the crisis saw the retail sector shrink by 14.5 % , while manufacturing fell by 10.5 % , with factories forced to shut and order books drying up .
Figures published by the Office for National Statistics reveal only one part of the economy did not shrink over the three months , that of public administration and defence , which was shown to have flatlined .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ move to ease the lockdown restrictions will help sow the seeds of the economic recovery .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was `` not surprised '' at the statistics , pointing out the UK was heavily dependent on services , which relied `` so much on human contact '' , but he predicted the UK economy would `` bounce back '' as the rules are gradually lifted .
However , speaking to Sky News , Peter Dixon , senior economist at Commerzbank , said : `` If you look at where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a major falling off the cliff and the question now is do we go further down or rebound slightly . ''
Data currently indicated the recovery would be a `` slow haul '' he said and added : `` At the moment I think it is going to be a fairly grim economic summer .
`` This really is unprecedented .
This is the economy really hitting the buffers very hard .
`` It 's a bit like a car crash .
When a car hits the barriers at high speed it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The concern is that the same will happen to the UK and indeed other economies around the world , particularly with regard to the labour market as a number of industries just ca n't back on their feet .
`` With the coronavirus job retention scheme likely to be phased out during the course of this year , then we will see just how resilient the economy is . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker With the easing of restrictions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will see a pick up in spending but suspect it will be a long time before we get back to the peaks prior to the crisis . ''
In the light of the bleak data , Tej Parikh , chief economist at the Institute of Directors , said many businesses will still need support as lockdown slowly lifts .
`` Emergency loan schemes have helped stop firms collapsing , but left many saddled with debt , '' he said .
`` Businesses will be reluctant to hire and spend on new projects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as social distancing eats into demand and productivity .
`` Firms will continue to face cashflow challenges in the months ahead . ''

Hotels, pubs and restaurants have borne the brunt of the economic havoc caused by the coronavirus pandemic, official figures show.
While nearly every part of the economy has shrunk as a result of the COVID-19 crisis - contributing to a record drop in GDP of 20.4% - the closure-hit food and accommodation sector has seen the biggest downturn, plummeting by 40.9% in the three months to April.
With people advised to stay at home and avoid travelling in a bid to curb the spread of the coronavirus, the transport sector contracted by 18.3% over the period.
The economically important construction industry, including housebuilding, also took a similar-sized hit - recording a fall of 18.2%.
The closure of most shops during the crisis saw the retail sector shrink by 14.5%, while manufacturing fell by 10.5%, with factories forced to shut and order books drying up.
Figures published by the Office for National Statistics reveal only one part of the economy did not shrink over the three months, that of public administration and defence, which was shown to have flatlined.
The government will be hoping that the move to ease the lockdown restrictions will help sow the seeds of the economic recovery.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was "not surprised" at the statistics, pointing out the UK was heavily dependent on services, which relied "so much on human contact", but he predicted the UK economy would "bounce back" as the rules are gradually lifted.
However, speaking to Sky News, Peter Dixon, senior economist at Commerzbank, said: "If you look at where the economy is now, obviously we have had a major falling off the cliff and the question now is do we go further down or rebound slightly."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:32 PM: 'We are a resilient and dynamic economy'
Data currently indicated the recovery would be a "slow haul" he said and added: "At the moment I think it is going to be a fairly grim economic summer.
"This really is unprecedented. This is the economy really hitting the buffers very hard.
"It's a bit like a car crash. When a car hits the barriers at high speed it leaves a lot of damage.
"The concern is that the same will happen to the UK and indeed other economies around the world, particularly with regard to the labour market as a number of industries just can't back on their feet.
"With the coronavirus job retention scheme likely to be phased out during the course of this year, then we will see just how resilient the economy is."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
With the easing of restrictions, he added: "I rather suspect we will see a pick up in spending but suspect it will be a long time before we get back to the peaks prior to the crisis."
In the light of the bleak data, Tej Parikh, chief economist at the Institute of Directors, said many businesses will still need support as lockdown slowly lifts.
"Emergency loan schemes have helped stop firms collapsing, but left many saddled with debt," he said.
"Businesses will be reluctant to hire and spend on new projects as they repair their finances, particularly as social distancing eats into demand and productivity.
"Firms will continue to face cashflow challenges in the months ahead."


news--2020-06-12--Queen to celebrate her birthday with official event - but away from public eye

The Queen will be seen at her first official outside event since the start of the coronavirus pandemic , as a small military parade is held to mark her official birthday .
A short ceremonial event will take place on Saturday in the grounds of Windsor Castle after Trooping The Colour , which was due to take place , had to be cancelled due to the restrictions introduced because of COVID-19 .
Usually thousands of people gather along the Mall and in front of Buckingham Palace to watch the military parade and to see members of the Royal Family as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ horseback , before appearing on the balcony together .
The display normally involves 1,400 parading soldiers , 200 horses , 400 musicians and culminates with a flypast over the palace Instead a brief military ceremony will take place inside the grounds of Windsor Castle carried out by a detachment from the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards , whose colour was due to be trooped this year at The Queen 's Birthday Parade on Horse Guards .
The Welsh Guards are currently stationed at Windsor Castle .
The soldiers and band of the Household Division @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moves to make sure they stay at least two metres apart .
Lieutenant Colonel Guy Stone , head of ceremonial events for the Household Division , led the military planning for this one-off event .
He told Sky News : `` It 's not a thousand soldiers and there are n't hundreds of horses , it 's very much smaller .
It 's modest , it 's discreet , it 's appropriate and it 's socially distanced .
So we will have 85 soldiers in parade , no horses this year very sadly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward to it .
`` It 's a chance for us to really make sure the Queen 's birthday is marked but also a chance for us to give gratitude for her guidance through this really difficult period . ''
Trooping The Colour has marked the official birthday of the monarch for more than 260 years .
The tradition was started by King George II whose birthday was in November .
Because the weather was n't very good at that time of year he decided to combine an official birthday parade with an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The palace is discouraging people from travelling to Windsor this weekend , due to social distancing restrictions .
Members of the public will not see any of the military parade as it will take place inside the castle grounds .
The Queen has been at Windsor Castle throughout the pandemic , along with her husband the Duke of Edinburgh , who celebrated his 99th birthday last Wednesday .
A new photograph of the couple was released to mark the occasion .
Her Majesty has n't been seen at any official events since lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her first official video call , with her daughter Princess Anne , talking to carers across the country to celebrate their efforts .
Her Majesty has recorded two televised messages for the nation during the pandemic , but both were filmed under strict restrictions to protect her from the virus .
She was photographed two weeks ago riding a pony in the grounds of Windsor Castle .
Another first for the history books This year was to have been the Welsh Guards ' turn to `` troop '' their Colour past the Queen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ceremonial high point of Her Majesty 's official birthday .
Like everything else in our lives , this could not proceed .
Coronavirus has changed everything .
Vulnerable people in society are being kept in isolation .
This includes the Queen , who became 94 at her last actual birthday on 21 April .
As head of state over 16 nations , she lives in Windsor Castle in what is described as HMS Bubble with the Duke of Edinburgh , who entered his 100th year this week .
Every day , her Household @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her safety .
For the first time in her 68-year reign , these soldiers will offer the simplest of tributes .
The ensign , who is mounting the Guard on the Castle , will carry the Queen 's Colour past his soldiers and lower it in salute to Her Majesty .
Guardsman David `` Griffiths 68 '' is the tallest soldier on this parade at 6ft 4 '' and with size 12 boots .
From Bangor in North Wales , he said that before preparing for this ceremony `` we have been testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for COVID-19 ... and learning to march with social distancing has been hard , but we 've nailed it '' .
The Colour is the symbolic and consecrated flag that represents the soul , history , and service of a regiment .
It is `` trooped '' so soldiers identify their emblem and know where it is kept to protect it in time of danger .
To mark this , the Colour will be held with the guardsman in Windsor Castle overnight after this unique ceremony .
Another first for the history of @ @ @

The Queen will be seen at her first official outside event since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, as a small military parade is held to mark her official birthday.
A short ceremonial event will take place on Saturday in the grounds of Windsor Castle after Trooping The Colour, which was due to take place, had to be cancelled due to the restrictions introduced because of COVID-19.
Usually thousands of people gather along the Mall and in front of Buckingham Palace to watch the military parade and to see members of the Royal Family as they travel in carriages, and on horseback, before appearing on the balcony together.
The display normally involves 1,400 parading soldiers, 200 horses, 400 musicians and culminates with a flypast over the palace
Instead a brief military ceremony will take place inside the grounds of Windsor Castle carried out by a detachment from the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, whose colour was due to be trooped this year at The Queen's Birthday Parade on Horse Guards.
The Welsh Guards are currently stationed at Windsor Castle. The soldiers and band of the Household Division have had to learn new ceremonial drill moves to make sure they stay at least two metres apart.
Lieutenant Colonel Guy Stone, head of ceremonial events for the Household Division, led the military planning for this one-off event.
He told Sky News: "It's not a thousand soldiers and there aren't hundreds of horses, it's very much smaller. It's modest, it's discreet, it's appropriate and it's socially distanced. So we will have 85 soldiers in parade, no horses this year very sadly, but we are very much looking forward to it.
"It's a chance for us to really make sure the Queen's birthday is marked but also a chance for us to give gratitude for her guidance through this really difficult period."
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Image: The celebrations will be inside the grounds of Windsor Castle
Trooping The Colour has marked the official birthday of the monarch for more than 260 years. The tradition was started by King George II whose birthday was in November. Because the weather wasn't very good at that time of year he decided to combine an official birthday parade with an annual military parade in the summer.
The palace is discouraging people from travelling to Windsor this weekend, due to social distancing restrictions.
Members of the public will not see any of the military parade as it will take place inside the castle grounds.
The Queen has been at Windsor Castle throughout the pandemic, along with her husband the Duke of Edinburgh, who celebrated his 99th birthday last Wednesday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:08 May: The Queen's VE Day anniversary message
A new photograph of the couple was released to mark the occasion.
Her Majesty hasn't been seen at any official events since lockdown started but this week took part in her first official video call, with her daughter Princess Anne, talking to carers across the country to celebrate their efforts.
Her Majesty has recorded two televised messages for the nation during the pandemic, but both were filmed under strict restrictions to protect her from the virus.
She was photographed two weeks ago riding a pony in the grounds of Windsor Castle.
Another first for the history books
Analysis by Alistair Bruce, royal commentator
This year was to have been the Welsh Guards' turn to "troop" their Colour past the Queen on Horse Guards Parade, as the ceremonial high point of Her Majesty's official birthday.
Like everything else in our lives, this could not proceed. Coronavirus has changed everything.
Vulnerable people in society are being kept in isolation. This includes the Queen, who became 94 at her last actual birthday on 21 April.
As head of state over 16 nations, she lives in Windsor Castle in what is described as HMS Bubble with the Duke of Edinburgh, who entered his 100th year this week.
Every day, her Household troops keep actual and ceremonial watch over her safety.
For the first time in her 68-year reign, these soldiers will offer the simplest of tributes. The ensign, who is mounting the Guard on the Castle, will carry the Queen's Colour past his soldiers and lower it in salute to Her Majesty.
Guardsman David "Griffiths 68" is the tallest soldier on this parade at 6ft 4" and with size 12 boots.
From Bangor in North Wales, he said that before preparing for this ceremony "we have been testing members of the NHS and general public for COVID-19... and learning to march with social distancing has been hard, but we've nailed it".
The Colour is the symbolic and consecrated flag that represents the soul, history, and service of a regiment. It is "trooped" so soldiers identify their emblem and know where it is kept to protect it in time of danger.
To mark this, the Colour will be held with the guardsman in Windsor Castle overnight after this unique ceremony.
Another first for the history of the guards.


news--2020-06-12--Coronavirus lockdown: What you can do from this weekend after changes across UK

Lockdown restrictions are continuing to ease across the UK as the number of coronavirus infections drops .
However , England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland differ slightly from each other in terms of coronavirus measures .
Adults living alone , or single parents with children under 18 , can now spend the night at another household and create a `` support bubble '' .
This is an attempt to make lockdown more bearable for those who have been cut off from friends and family since 23 March .
The relaxation does not apply to vulnerable people who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under conditions that they adhere to social distancing measures .
The types of shops that can open their doors include food retailers , clothing stores , charity shops and hardware home shops • Zoos and safari parks can reopen , but attractions will not be allowed to reopen indoor exhibitions such as reptile houses .
They must also ensure amenities including cafes are takeaway only • Secondary schools can start reopening , with pupils in Year 10 and 12 able to get some face-to-face time with teachers before the summer holidays • Face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Churches and other places of worship will be open for private prayer where people can `` reflect and pray '' while adhering to social distancing rules Last month , Boris Johnson gave an update on what restrictions would be lifted from 1 June , which included people gathering in groups of up to six people in public or private outdoor spaces and dental surgeries opening from 8 June .
You still can not exercise in an indoor sports court , gym or leisure centre , or go swimming in a public pool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off-limits , and you can not share a private vehicle with someone from another household .
People are also not allowed to invite anyone other than close family or friends , and someone from the deceased 's household , to a funeral .
• Restaurants and hotels : 4 July is the earliest point at which `` some of the hospitality industry and other public places '' could reopen , the PM said , but only if `` they are safe and enforce social distancing '' • Hairdressers : Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not reopen until 4 July `` at the very earliest '' Those over 70 should continue to take particular care to minimise contact with others outside their household .
If they do go out , they should be careful to maintain distance from others and should comply with social distancing rules .
Anyone who has been advised to shield by the NHS or their GP , including those 70 and over , should continue to do this until at least the end of June .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's restrictions could be eased further on 18 June following a `` steady decline '' in the death rate .
She said Scotland 's lockdown would be relaxed in a four-phase `` route map '' .
What you can do now : • Up to eight people from two households may gather outdoors , as long as people are social distancing • People are able to sit and sunbathe outdoors • Visits inside another household are not allowed • Non-contact sports like golf , fishing , bowls , outdoor swimming , canoeing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to travel - preferably walk or cycle - to carry out activities , but they should try to stay close to home • Garden centres are allowed to open - but none of their cafes • Some parts of the criminal justice system resume Scotland will move into phase two , possibly later this month , when the virus is considered `` controlled '' and the R number is consistently below 1 .
As part of its four-phase `` route map '' , lockdown measures to be relaxed in the future in Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work in June to prepare for schools reopening in new school year in August • Support for children going into primary one or moving from primary to secondary school • More children , not just of key workers , to have access to critical childcare , particularly outdoor nurseries • Meet outside with larger groups of friends and family , with social distancing • Meet people from another households indoors with social distancing • Indoor non-office-based workplaces , such as factories and labs , can resume once guidance is agreed • Small shops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with outdoor space , and places of worships can open - with marriages and civil partnerships allowed with limited attendees • Scotland 's sports minister has said professional football , rugby and horse racing will return behind closed doors during phase two of the easing of lockdown restrictions , however a date has not been set : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker • Closer to normal with different households meeting - although with social distancing • Schools to reopen on 11 August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of school and home learning • Childcare providers , larger shops , indoor pubs and restaurants , hairdressers , museums , cinemas , gyms and hotels can reopen • Live events with restricted numbers and funerals beyond close family • Relaxation of all restrictions `` in line with public health advice '' People are currently only allowed to meet members from one other household while outdoors and are urged not to travel further than five miles for leisure .
The next lockdown review is due to take place on 18 June .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from two different households in the same local area can meet up outdoors , but they must continue to maintain social distancing and strict hand hygiene • They must also stay local , meaning they must n't - as a general rule - travel more than five miles from home • Exceptions will be people travelling to work , to seek care or shopping for essentials if they are n't available locally • Vulnerable people who have been `` shielding '' from the virus have been advised they can exercise at times that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlimited exercise outdoors but must `` stay local '' , starting and ending at home and only with people from their household - with a quick break to eat something The Northern Ireland Executive has a `` pathway to recovery '' route map for easing the lockdown and some rules - within steps one and two of the five-stage plan - have been relaxed as the R number is currently estimated as being between 0.5 and 0.9 .
First Minister Arlene Foster said that people living alone will now be able to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support bubble '' .
There is no social distancing restriction attached and people can stay overnight if they wish .
But the relaxation does not apply to individuals who are shielding .
All non-essential shops , with a range of new hygiene and social distancing measures , were allowed to reopen on Friday .
What you can do now : • Groups of up to 10 people who do not share a household are allowed to meet outdoors two metres apart • Places of worship are open for private prayer , while drive-in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Non-contact outdoor activities are allowed , including fishing , golf , tennis and some water sports • No restrictions on private travel , as long as it is in Northern Ireland • Use face coverings if you can not social distance • Non-food retail outlets and some libraries are allowed to open • Phased return to office working but those who can should work from home • Gatherings of up to 30 people - with social distancing • Part-time schooling for priority groups , with in-school and remote learning • All `` contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and salons can open after a risk assessment • All school pupils go back on a part-time basis , with in-school and remote learning • Competitive sport to resume behind closed doors , or with spectator limits • Restaurants , pubs and cafes can open after a risk assessment , initially on a limited basis • Close physical contact sport allowed and return to full spectator competitive sport and live events • People can meet in large groups subject to social distancing

Lockdown restrictions are continuing to ease across the UK as the number of coronavirus infections drops.
However, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland differ slightly from each other in terms of coronavirus measures.
ENGLAND
Adults living alone, or single parents with children under 18, can now spend the night at another household and create a "support bubble".
This is an attempt to make lockdown more bearable for those who have been cut off from friends and family since 23 March.
The relaxation does not apply to vulnerable people who are shielding.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:45 PM eases lockdown with another household
From Monday:
Non-essential shops can reopen under conditions that they adhere to social distancing measures. The types of shops that can open their doors include food retailers, clothing stores, charity shops and hardware home shops
include food retailers, clothing stores, charity shops and hardware home shops Zoos and safari parks can reopen, but attractions will not be allowed to reopen indoor exhibitions such as reptile houses. They must also ensure amenities including cafes are takeaway only
Secondary schools can start reopening, with pupils in Year 10 and 12 able to get some face-to-face time with teachers before the summer holidays
Face coverings will be mandatory on public transport
Churches and other places of worship will be open for private prayer where people can "reflect and pray" while adhering to social distancing rules
Image: People in England can create 'support bubbles'
Last month, Boris Johnson gave an update on what restrictions would be lifted from 1 June, which included people gathering in groups of up to six people in public or private outdoor spaces and dental surgeries opening from 8 June.
You still cannot exercise in an indoor sports court, gym or leisure centre, or go swimming in a public pool.
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Outdoor gyms and playgrounds are still off-limits, and you cannot share a private vehicle with someone from another household.
People are also not allowed to invite anyone other than close family or friends, and someone from the deceased's household, to a funeral.
Image: People buying takeaway pints at a pub on Wandsworth Common in London
July
Restaurants and hotels: 4 July is the earliest point at which "some of the hospitality industry and other public places" could reopen, the PM said, but only if "they are safe and enforce social distancing"
Hairdressers: Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told Sky News that salons and barbers will not reopen until 4 July "at the very earliest"
Image: Hairdressers, barbers and salons will not be allowed to re-open until 4 July at the earliest
Advice for over-70s:
Those over 70 should continue to take particular care to minimise contact with others outside their household.
If they do go out, they should be careful to maintain distance from others and should comply with social distancing rules.
Anyone who has been advised to shield by the NHS or their GP, including those 70 and over, should continue to do this until at least the end of June.
SCOTLAND
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said this week she is "optimistic" that Scotland's restrictions could be eased further on 18 June following a "steady decline" in the death rate.
She said Scotland's lockdown would be relaxed in a four-phase "route map".
What you can do now:
Up to eight people from two households may gather outdoors, as long as people are social distancing
People are able to sit and sunbathe outdoors
Visits inside another household are not allowed
Non-contact sports like golf, fishing, bowls, outdoor swimming, canoeing and tennis are allowed
People are able to travel - preferably walk or cycle - to carry out activities, but they should try to stay close to home
Recycling and waste services resume
Outdoor industries like agriculture and construction resume
Garden centres are allowed to open - but none of their cafes
Some services like social work resume
Some parts of the criminal justice system resume
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:43 Two Scottish households can meet from Friday
Scotland will move into phase two, possibly later this month, when the virus is considered "controlled" and the R number is consistently below 1.
As part of its four-phase "route map", lockdown measures to be relaxed in the future in Scotland include:
Teachers to return to work in June to prepare for schools reopening in new school year in August
Support for children going into primary one or moving from primary to secondary school
More children, not just of key workers, to have access to critical childcare, particularly outdoor nurseries
Housing market to reopen
Gradual reopening of takeaway and drive-thru food outlets
In phase two:
Meet outside with larger groups of friends and family, with social distancing
Meet people from another households indoors with social distancing
Increased public transport capacity with peak time travel discouraged
University lab research to restart
Indoor non-office-based workplaces, such as factories and labs, can resume once guidance is agreed
People can move house
Small shops, outdoor markets, pubs and restaurants with outdoor space, and places of worships can open - with marriages and civil partnerships allowed with limited attendees
Scotland's sports minister has said professional football, rugby and horse racing will return behind closed doors during phase two of the easing of lockdown restrictions, however a date has not been set
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Phase three:
Closer to normal with different households meeting - although with social distancing
Schools to reopen on 11 August but with a "blended model" of school and home learning
Childcare providers, larger shops, indoor pubs and restaurants, hairdressers, museums, cinemas, gyms and hotels can reopen
Live events with restricted numbers and funerals beyond close family
Dentists to fully reopen
Phase four:
Relaxation of all restrictions "in line with public health advice"
WALES
People are currently only allowed to meet members from one other household while outdoors and are urged not to travel further than five miles for leisure.
The next lockdown review is due to take place on 18 June.
Image: People queue at Caerphilly Garden Centre in Cardiff
What you can do now:
People from two different households in the same local area can meet up outdoors, but they must continue to maintain social distancing and strict hand hygiene
They must also stay local, meaning they mustn't - as a general rule - travel more than five miles from home
Exceptions will be people travelling to work, to seek care or shopping for essentials if they aren't available locally
Vulnerable people who have been "shielding" from the virus have been advised they can exercise at times that are not too busy
People could already:
Carry out unlimited exercise outdoors but must "stay local", starting and ending at home and only with people from their household - with a quick break to eat something
Garden centres can reopen
Recycling centres and libraries can open
Image: Strict lockdown measures are still in place in Wales
NORTHERN IRELAND
The Northern Ireland Executive has a "pathway to recovery" route map for easing the lockdown and some rules - within steps one and two of the five-stage plan - have been relaxed as the R number is currently estimated as being between 0.5 and 0.9.
First Minister Arlene Foster said that people living alone will now be able to stay at one household in a so-called "support bubble". There is no social distancing restriction attached and people can stay overnight if they wish.
But the relaxation does not apply to individuals who are shielding.
All non-essential shops, with a range of new hygiene and social distancing measures, were allowed to reopen on Friday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 Confusion as UK nations diverge on lockdown
What you can do now:
Groups of up to 10 people who do not share a household are allowed to meet outdoors two metres apart
Garden and recycling centres have reopened
Places of worship are open for private prayer, while drive-in church services and cinemas are allowed
Non-contact outdoor activities are allowed, including fishing, golf, tennis and some water sports
No restrictions on private travel, as long as it is in Northern Ireland
Use face coverings if you cannot social distance
Non-food retail outlets and some libraries are allowed to open
Step three:
Phased return to office working but those who can should work from home
Gatherings of up to 30 people - with social distancing
Part-time schooling for priority groups, with in-school and remote learning
Museums, galleries, libraries to reopen
Concert and theatre rehearsals to resume
Image: Friends observe social distancing as they meet outside Stormont in Belfast
Step four:
All "contact" retail such as hairdressers, gyms and salons can open after a risk assessment
All school pupils go back on a part-time basis, with in-school and remote learning
Staggering demand for public transport
Wider range of gatherings allowed, including church services - subject to social distancing
Competitive sport to resume behind closed doors, or with spectator limits
Leisure centres to open
Outdoor concerts allowed on a restricted basis
Step five:


news--2020-06-11--Coronavirus: Children with autism 'stopped from seeing parents' during lockdown

Young people with autism and learning disabilities are suffering human rights abuses due to the impact of the coronavirus lockdown , an investigation has found .
A cross-party committee of MPs and lords listened to evidence from the mothers of two young people detained in institutions whose mental health spiralled downhill when the pandemic meant they were unable to see their parents .
Now the Joint Committee on Human Rights has made a number of recommendations to protect those who are most vulnerable .
Andrea Attree told the hearing : `` Dannielle suffers with paranoia so she thinks sometimes that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do n't like her .
`` It just heightens all those anxieties and then obviously the more anxious she becomes , the more she self-harms and it 's just a vicious circle . ''
Before lockdown , Andrea would visit twice a week on set days but for seven weeks she was n't allowed to see her daughter , who is 23 , even once .
`` It 's incredibly hard to see your daughter destroying herself , '' she said .
`` She feels she has got nothing to live for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will take that opportunity to try and end her life . ''
Chairwoman of the committee Harriet Harman MP said making sure parents are allowed to visit is vital .
`` The system should n't just treat them like a nuisance , because without parental visits often the young person gets worse and then is more subjected to forcible constraint and solitary confinement and then deteriorates again , '' she said .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A spokesperson for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals and other local health services has always supported visits across all inpatient settings `` when local organisations agree it is safe and appropriate to do so '' , adding that there must be `` no blanket ban '' .
But to ensure this happens , the report calls on NHS England to write to hospitals making sure they allow families access .
The recommendations to the government also add that figures on use of restraint and segregation must be published weekly by institutions .
Care Quality Commission inspections should be unannounced and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's been a history of abuse or malpractice and poor ratings .
There are also calls for a hotline to be set up for patients , families and staff to report abuse .
And priority should be given to discharging young people into safe homes in the community .
Finally , detailed data must be provided about those who have contracted and died from COVID-19 .
Edel Harris , chief executive of the charity Mencap , welcomed the report but added : `` What we really want is a much longer-term reform and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , because many young people with a learning disability and/or autism who are currently in these long-stay institutions are locked away , often many , many miles from their families . ''
Jane Harris , director of external affairs at the National Autistic Society , said : `` The autism mental health crisis has been a reality for much longer than coronavirus , but the pandemic has compounded thousands of people 's trauma .
`` The government and NHS England have the power to end this scandal once and for all , by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mental health services autistic people need .
Only this will end this vicious cycle . ''
For Andrea , the recommendations are `` a massive step in the right direction '' , but she says they will only be worthwhile if they are enforced and monitored .

Young people with autism and learning disabilities are suffering human rights abuses due to the impact of the coronavirus lockdown, an investigation has found.
A cross-party committee of MPs and lords listened to evidence from the mothers of two young people detained in institutions whose mental health spiralled downhill when the pandemic meant they were unable to see their parents.
Now the Joint Committee on Human Rights has made a number of recommendations to protect those who are most vulnerable.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 February: Government faces legal action over 'inhumane' treatment of autistic people
Andrea Attree told the hearing: "Dannielle suffers with paranoia so she thinks sometimes that I don't want to come or I don't like her.
"It just heightens all those anxieties and then obviously the more anxious she becomes, the more she self-harms and it's just a vicious circle."
Before lockdown, Andrea would visit twice a week on set days but for seven weeks she wasn't allowed to see her daughter, who is 23, even once.
"It's incredibly hard to see your daughter destroying herself," she said.
"She feels she has got nothing to live for, therefore at any given opportunity she will take that opportunity to try and end her life."
Chairwoman of the committee Harriet Harman MP said making sure parents are allowed to visit is vital.
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"The system shouldn't just treat them like a nuisance, because without parental visits often the young person gets worse and then is more subjected to forcible constraint and solitary confinement and then deteriorates again," she said.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
A spokesperson for the NHS said the national guidance sent to hospitals and other local health services has always supported visits across all inpatient settings "when local organisations agree it is safe and appropriate to do so", adding that there must be "no blanket ban".
But to ensure this happens, the report calls on NHS England to write to hospitals making sure they allow families access.
The recommendations to the government also add that figures on use of restraint and segregation must be published weekly by institutions.
Care Quality Commission inspections should be unannounced and the CQC must prioritise inspections where there's been a history of abuse or malpractice and poor ratings.
There are also calls for a hotline to be set up for patients, families and staff to report abuse.
And priority should be given to discharging young people into safe homes in the community.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 24:03 Growing up in a pandemic
Finally, detailed data must be provided about those who have contracted and died from COVID-19.
Edel Harris, chief executive of the charity Mencap, welcomed the report but added: "What we really want is a much longer-term reform and investment in the whole social care system, because many young people with a learning disability and/or autism who are currently in these long-stay institutions are locked away, often many, many miles from their families."
Jane Harris, director of external affairs at the National Autistic Society, said: "The autism mental health crisis has been a reality for much longer than coronavirus, but the pandemic has compounded thousands of people's trauma.
"The government and NHS England have the power to end this scandal once and for all, by investing in the social care and community mental health services autistic people need. Only this will end this vicious cycle."
For Andrea, the recommendations are "a massive step in the right direction", but she says they will only be worthwhile if they are enforced and monitored.