news--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Shop prices fall at fastest rate in 14 years as retailers try to survive

Retail prices last month suffered their biggest monthly drop since 2006 , according to the latest data .
Clothing and furniture retailers were among those discounting heavily in an effort to attract shoppers and survive the coronavirus crisis .
The pandemic forced non-essential shops to close in March in an effort to limit the spread of the virus , although many have been able to operate online .
For most , the restrictions are set to be eased on 15 June .
The BRC-Nielsen shop price index for May showed that prices slid by 2.4 % in May , following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dickinson , chief executive of the British Retail Consortium , said : `` Shop prices in May fell at their fastest rate since 2006 , which was largely driven by the drop in non-food prices .
`` Clothing and furniture saw the biggest drop as retailers ran promotions to encourage consumer spending and attempted to mitigate recent losses . ''
Non-food prices fell by 4.6 % in May - the sharpest decline since December 2006 - compared to a fall of 3.7 % in April .
Meanwhile , food inflation eased to 1.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April .
Fresh food prices were up 0.5 % from a 1 % increase in the previous month .
Ms Dickinson added : `` Year-on-year food prices increased slightly due to higher business costs , implementing social distancing measures and the upward pressure from labour shortages , but were down on the previous month as more home-grown produce became available .
`` We expect to see continued upward pressure on food prices from the effects of the pandemic in the coming months , while non-food prices are likely to remain deflationary with subdued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mike Watkins , head of retailer and business insight at Nielsen , said : `` With the retail industry coping with store closures and social distancing limitations , it 's no surprise to see shop price inflation slowing in recent weeks .
`` Across the major supermarkets with sales growths in high single digits in May , the consumer spend on promotions has also been at an all-time low , but there has been little upwards pressure on prices .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ summer with the importance of seasonal foods and with the supply chain still disrupted , we can anticipate some volatility in prices . ''
This week until Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
If you 'd like to be in our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Retail prices last month suffered their biggest monthly drop since 2006, according to the latest data.
Clothing and furniture retailers were among those discounting heavily in an effort to attract shoppers and survive the coronavirus crisis.
The pandemic forced non-essential shops to close in March in an effort to limit the spread of the virus, although many have been able to operate online.
For most, the restrictions are set to be eased on 15 June.
The BRC-Nielsen shop price index for May showed that prices slid by 2.4% in May, following April's 1.7% decline.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: "Shop prices in May fell at their fastest rate since 2006, which was largely driven by the drop in non-food prices.
"Clothing and furniture saw the biggest drop as retailers ran promotions to encourage consumer spending and attempted to mitigate recent losses."
Non-food prices fell by 4.6% in May - the sharpest decline since December 2006 - compared to a fall of 3.7% in April.
Meanwhile, food inflation eased to 1.5% from the 1.8% increase in April.
Advertisement
Fresh food prices were up 0.5% from a 1% increase in the previous month.
Ms Dickinson added: "Year-on-year food prices increased slightly due to higher business costs, implementing social distancing measures and the upward pressure from labour shortages, but were down on the previous month as more home-grown produce became available.
"We expect to see continued upward pressure on food prices from the effects of the pandemic in the coming months, while non-food prices are likely to remain deflationary with subdued sales."
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
Mike Watkins, head of retailer and business insight at Nielsen, said: "With the retail industry coping with store closures and social distancing limitations, it's no surprise to see shop price inflation slowing in recent weeks.
"Across the major supermarkets with sales growths in high single digits in May, the consumer spend on promotions has also been at an all-time low, but there has been little upwards pressure on prices.
"However, as we move towards summer with the importance of seasonal foods and with the supply chain still disrupted, we can anticipate some volatility in prices."
This week until Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-06-03--Hong Kong: Three million people could come to live in the UK if China imposes new law

Boris Johnson has pledged to allow nearly three million Hong Kong citizens the right to live and work indefinitely in the UK , with a route to full citizenship , if China imposes a controversial new national security law on the city .
The prime minister described the potential move as `` one of the biggest changes in our visa system in history '' .
It is a significant escalation in the UK 's objections to Beijing 's plans .
Previously , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab had only said the offer would be available to the 350,000 current holders of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kong and their dependants .
However , Mr Johnson has said he would extend the same offer to a further 2.5 million people in Hong Kong who do not hold a BNO passport but are eligible for one .
Last month , China announced plans to directly impose a new national security law in Hong Kong .
The detail of the legislation is currently being drafted but , under the current proposals , many fear the law could be used to diminish Hong Kong 's traditional freedoms of the press , of speech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The law also would allow mainland Chinese security services to operate in Hong Kong .
Protesters have taken to the streets in Hong Kong to demonstrate , despite coronavirus social distancing restrictions still being in place .
On Wednesday , Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said the central government would not back down on the proposed legislation .
She spoke during a trip to Beijing to discuss the new law .
Writing in the South China Morning Post and The Times , Mr Johnson said the law on Hong Kong would `` curtail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` Britain would then have no choice but to uphold our profound ties of history and friendship with Hong Kong . ''
China has previously said it reserved the right to take `` countermeasures '' against the UK .
Foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian last month said : `` All such BNO passport holders are Chinese nationals and if the UK insists on changing this practice it will not only violate its own stance but also international law . ''
On Wednesday , China 's foreign ministry said it had lodged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raab 's comments , who on Tuesday told Beijing to `` step back from the brink '' over Hong Kong .
The foreign ministry added the UK has no jurisdiction or supervision over Hong Kong and that any threat to the city 's stability and prosperity was from foreign forces .
A BNO passport is a travel document that does not confer citizenship rights but allows holders to travel to the UK for up to six months , without the automatic right to live or work there .
They were issued to people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handover from the UK to China in 1997 .
Anyone born before 1997 in Hong Kong is eligible for one .
Under Mr Johnson 's plan BNO passport holders would be allowed to stay and work in the UK for 12 months , which could be renewed each year - opening up a path to citizenship .
The intervention is likely to worsen relations between the UK and China , which are deteriorating on a number of fronts , including the COVID-19 pandemic and the role of Chinese tech company Huawei in Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told Sky News the UK is set to rethink its policy on China as views within government harden .
Public opinion in the UK has also shifted with a recent YouGov poll finding that , given the current situation in Hong Kong , 42 % of British adults would support giving BNO passport holders from Hong Kong greater rights to come and live in Britain , with 24 % opposed .
Mr Johnson has urged China to rethink its approach .
He added : `` I still hope that China will remember that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and leadership .
`` As China plays a greater role on the international stage - commensurate with its economic prowess - then its authority will rest not simply on its global weight but on its reputation for fair dealing and magnanimity .
`` Britain does not seek to prevent China 's rise ; on the contrary we will work side-by-side on all the issues where our interests converge , from trade to climate change .
We want a modern and mature relationship , based on mutual respect and recognising China 's place in @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson has pledged to allow nearly three million Hong Kong citizens the right to live and work indefinitely in the UK, with a route to full citizenship, if China imposes a controversial new national security law on the city.
The prime minister described the potential move as "one of the biggest changes in our visa system in history".
It is a significant escalation in the UK's objections to Beijing's plans.
Previously, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab had only said the offer would be available to the 350,000 current holders of a British National Overseas passport in Hong Kong and their dependants.
However, Mr Johnson has said he would extend the same offer to a further 2.5 million people in Hong Kong who do not hold a BNO passport but are eligible for one.
Last month, China announced plans to directly impose a new national security law in Hong Kong.
The detail of the legislation is currently being drafted but, under the current proposals, many fear the law could be used to diminish Hong Kong's traditional freedoms of the press, of speech and of protest, among others.
The law also would allow mainland Chinese security services to operate in Hong Kong.
Protesters have taken to the streets in Hong Kong to demonstrate, despite coronavirus social distancing restrictions still being in place.
Advertisement
On Wednesday, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said the central government would not back down on the proposed legislation.
She spoke during a trip to Beijing to discuss the new law.
Writing in the South China Morning Post and The Times, Mr Johnson said the law on Hong Kong would "curtail its freedoms and dramatically erode its autonomy".
"Britain would then have no choice but to uphold our profound ties of history and friendship with Hong Kong."
China has previously said it reserved the right to take "countermeasures" against the UK.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian last month said: "All such BNO passport holders are Chinese nationals and if the UK insists on changing this practice it will not only violate its own stance but also international law."
On Wednesday, China's foreign ministry said it had lodged stern representations with the UK over Mr Raab's comments, who on Tuesday told Beijing to "step back from the brink" over Hong Kong.
The foreign ministry added the UK has no jurisdiction or supervision over Hong Kong and that any threat to the city's stability and prosperity was from foreign forces.
A BNO passport is a travel document that does not confer citizenship rights but allows holders to travel to the UK for up to six months, without the automatic right to live or work there.
They were issued to people in Hong Kong before the territory's handover from the UK to China in 1997. Anyone born before 1997 in Hong Kong is eligible for one.
Under Mr Johnson's plan BNO passport holders would be allowed to stay and work in the UK for 12 months, which could be renewed each year - opening up a path to citizenship.
The intervention is likely to worsen relations between the UK and China, which are deteriorating on a number of fronts, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the role of Chinese tech company Huawei in Britain's 5G network.
Whitehall sources have told Sky News the UK is set to rethink its policy on China as views within government harden.
Image: Protesters have continued to take place despite coronavirus social distancing restrictions
Image: China has approved a draft of the new legislation
Public opinion in the UK has also shifted with a recent YouGov poll finding that, given the current situation in Hong Kong, 42% of British adults would support giving BNO passport holders from Hong Kong greater rights to come and live in Britain, with 24% opposed.
Mr Johnson has urged China to rethink its approach.
He added: "I still hope that China will remember that responsibilities go hand in glove with strength and leadership.
"As China plays a greater role on the international stage - commensurate with its economic prowess - then its authority will rest not simply on its global weight but on its reputation for fair dealing and magnanimity.
"Britain does not seek to prevent China's rise; on the contrary we will work side-by-side on all the issues where our interests converge, from trade to climate change. We want a modern and mature relationship, based on mutual respect and recognising China's place in the world."


news--2020-06-03--George Floyd death: Family demand justice as protesters defy city curfews

The mother of George Floyd 's daughter has made an emotional plea for justice , sobbing as she insisted he was a good man `` no matter what anybody thinks '' .
With her six-year-old daughter Gianna clinging to her , Roxie Washington said she wanted all four officers involved in Mr Floyd 's death to pay for the killing , which has sparked fierce protests across the US and the world .
`` At the end of the day , they get to go home and be with their families .
Gianna does n't have a father .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , graduate .
He will never walk her down the aisle . ''
Ms Washington made her remarks during a news conference at Minneapolis City Hall .
`` He loved her , he loved her so much , '' she said .
`` I 'm here for my baby .
I 'm here for George because I want justice for him , and I want justice for him because he was good .
No matter what anybody thinks , he was good . ''
George Floyd , 46 , died last week in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes while arresting him for allegedly using a counterfeit $ 20 note in a shop .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Ms Washington 's plea came as protests over his death continued across America , with around 40 cities imposing curfews .
But things were calmer than on Monday - when police fired tear gas at crowds in the US capital as Donald Trump made his way for a photo opportunity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park near the White House .
The crowd started thinning out on its own after 8pm - an hour after a curfew went into place - with a few hundred remaining , chanting at police .
Around 1,600 army troops have been deployed to the Washington region .
They are not yet involved in policing the protests but a Pentagon spokesman said they were on `` heightened alert '' .
In New York , there were arrests as well as some reports of looting as thousands of demonstrators remained on the streets after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fearing a repeat of the violence of the day before , had boarded up their windows However , mayor Bill de Blasio rejected calls from Mr Trump to bring in the National Guard after the president tweeted that `` lowlifes and losers are ripping you apart '' .
There were also `` hundreds '' of arrests in Los Angeles overnight , said a police spokesperson , as protesters ignored the 6pm curfew .
Sky 's reporter at one demonstration in Hollywood said it appeared that police wanted to avoid confrontation .
Other marches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Houston , Boston and Seattle - where people lay on the floor with their hands behind their back mimicking the position Mr Floyd was in when he died .
Demonstrations have also spread around the world , and in Paris riot officers fired tear gas at protesters who threw missiles and set fires during an unauthorised demonstration against police violence and racial injustice .
Several thousand people had previously rallied peacefully for two hours around the main Paris courthouse in homage to George Floyd and to Adama Traore , a French black man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had banned the protest because of coronavirus restrictions that banned any gathering of more than 10 people .

The mother of George Floyd's daughter has made an emotional plea for justice, sobbing as she insisted he was a good man "no matter what anybody thinks".
With her six-year-old daughter Gianna clinging to her, Roxie Washington said she wanted all four officers involved in Mr Floyd's death to pay for the killing, which has sparked fierce protests across the US and the world.
"At the end of the day, they get to go home and be with their families. Gianna doesn't have a father.
Image: Gianna clung to her mother during the press conference
"He will never see her grow up, graduate. He will never walk her down the aisle."
Ms Washington made her remarks during a news conference at Minneapolis City Hall.
"He loved her, he loved her so much," she said.
"I'm here for my baby. I'm here for George because I want justice for him, and I want justice for him because he was good. No matter what anybody thinks, he was good."
George Floyd, 46, died last week in Minneapolis after police officer Derek Chauvin was filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes while arresting him for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 note in a shop.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Advertisement
Ms Washington's plea came as protests over his death continued across America, with around 40 cities imposing curfews.
But things were calmer than on Monday - when police fired tear gas at crowds in the US capital as Donald Trump made his way for a photo opportunity.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 NY police arrest protesters breaking 8pm curfew
Image: Police blocked protesters from the entrance to Manhattan Bridge
In Washington, people gathered outside Lafayette Park near the White House.
The crowd started thinning out on its own after 8pm - an hour after a curfew went into place - with a few hundred remaining, chanting at police.
Around 1,600 army troops have been deployed to the Washington region.
They are not yet involved in policing the protests but a Pentagon spokesman said they were on "heightened alert".
Image: Protesters face up to police at a peaceful demonstration in Boston
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 Thousands lie down on Portland Bridge
In New York, there were arrests as well as some reports of looting as thousands of demonstrators remained on the streets after its 8pm curfew.
Some businesses, fearing a repeat of the violence of the day before, had boarded up their windows
However, mayor Bill de Blasio rejected calls from Mr Trump to bring in the National Guard after the president tweeted that "lowlifes and losers are ripping you apart".
There were also "hundreds" of arrests in Los Angeles overnight, said a police spokesperson, as protesters ignored the 6pm curfew.
Image: Protesters in LA closed off part of Sunset Boulevard
Sky's reporter at one demonstration in Hollywood said it appeared that police wanted to avoid confrontation.
Other marches took place in Portland, Miami, Houston, Boston and Seattle - where people lay on the floor with their hands behind their back mimicking the position Mr Floyd was in when he died.
Demonstrations have also spread around the world, and in Paris riot officers fired tear gas at protesters who threw missiles and set fires during an unauthorised demonstration against police violence and racial injustice.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:23 Police officers take the knee at New Jersey rally
Several thousand people had previously rallied peacefully for two hours around the main Paris courthouse in homage to George Floyd and to Adama Traore, a French black man who died in police custody.
Police had banned the protest because of coronavirus restrictions that banned any gathering of more than 10 people.


news--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Ministers defend quarantine saying 'we will all suffer if we get this wrong'

The quarantine plan for people arriving in the UK is vital to prevent a second coronavirus peak , the home secretary has insisted as she prepares to face her critics in the Commons .
Ahead of a statement to MPs on the controversial policy , Priti Patel said `` we will all suffer if we get this wrong '' , adding that tourism will recover faster if COVID-19 is kept in retreat .
Ms Patel has defended her plan in a Daily Telegraph article co-written with the transport secretary , Grant Shapps , amid claims the government is planning a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tory rebellion .
But at the same time , the ministers said they would review the quarantine policy - due to begin on Monday - `` when safe to do so '' , and suggested they may agree to `` air bridges '' between Britain and low-risk countries .
In a bid to reassure Tory MPs who are opposed to the quarantine plan , Ms Patel and Mr Shapps confirmed the government is working with the transport industry on agreements with other countries .
Defending the policy , the ministers wrote : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevent new cases being brought in from abroad and to prevent a second wave of the virus .
`` Right now , airport COVID-19 tests or rapid temperature tests simply are n't as effective .
Infected passengers might not have any symptoms , and tests might not work as well if you 've only just caught the virus .
`` Which is why it is right that we ask those who are travelling to our country to follow the measures that our own citizens are undertaking to continue to stop the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to follow the rules designed to protect our families , friends and loved ones , so should visitors to our country .
`` And by stopping people coming in from spreading the virus further , we can control it and get back to normal sooner - meaning the tourism industry will be up and running faster . ''
In a message to critics , the ministers added : `` We know that this will mean that challenges continue in the coming weeks , but that 's why we have an unprecedented package of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world - both for employees and businesses .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' But we will all suffer if we get this wrong and that is why it is crucial that we introduce these measures now .
Let 's not throw away our progress in tackling this deadly virus .
We owe it to the thousands who have died . ''
Hinting at a possible climb-down later this month , they said : `` As with all COVID-19 policies , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures , looking at global infection rates , the measures in place around the world , and the latest scientific advances .
`` We are working with the transport industry to see how we can introduce agreements with other countries when safe to do so , so we can go abroad and tourists can come here .
`` But as the prime minister has outlined , we must take it one step at a time .
We must keep the country safe from potentially infected passengers unknowingly spreading the virus to others in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health always comes first . ''
The ministers confirm that from Monday , people arriving to the UK will need to self-isolate for 14 days .
Travel details and passenger contact information will need to be provided .
There will be spot checks and fines .
A increasing number of MPs - including senior Tories - have spoken out against the quarantine plan over fears it could further harm the UK 's struggling aviation sector .
And critics have rallied behind the proposal of air bridges being established with low-risk destinations , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , health minister Edward Argar was cautious about the prospect of Britons being able to enjoy a holiday this summer .
`` I really hope people will be able to enjoy a holiday later this year , '' he told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show .
`` But it is hugely important that I say we can only do things like that when the infection rate and the risk of a second spike are so reduced .
`` I do n't think we 're in a position to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reeves , the shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster , said her party supported the quarantine plan .
`` We want people to be able to enjoy a holiday but we have got to stop a second spike in this virus , so it 's right that we put in place those measures at airports and ports , '' she said .
`` They should have been in place in March and then , perhaps , we would n't be in the dire situation we are - with one of the worst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK . ''
This week until Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the @ @ @ @ @ @

The quarantine plan for people arriving in the UK is vital to prevent a second coronavirus peak, the home secretary has insisted as she prepares to face her critics in the Commons.
Ahead of a statement to MPs on the controversial policy, Priti Patel said "we will all suffer if we get this wrong", adding that tourism will recover faster if COVID-19 is kept in retreat.
Ms Patel has defended her plan in a Daily Telegraph article co-written with the transport secretary, Grant Shapps, amid claims the government is planning a retreat in the face of a growing Tory rebellion.
Image: Priti Patel insists the measures will prevent a second wave of the virus
But at the same time, the ministers said they would review the quarantine policy - due to begin on Monday - "when safe to do so", and suggested they may agree to "air bridges" between Britain and low-risk countries.
In a bid to reassure Tory MPs who are opposed to the quarantine plan, Ms Patel and Mr Shapps confirmed the government is working with the transport industry on agreements with other countries.
Defending the policy, the ministers wrote: "Self-isolation for those arriving is designed to prevent new cases being brought in from abroad and to prevent a second wave of the virus.
"Right now, airport COVID-19 tests or rapid temperature tests simply aren't as effective. Infected passengers might not have any symptoms, and tests might not work as well if you've only just caught the virus.
"Which is why it is right that we ask those who are travelling to our country to follow the measures that our own citizens are undertaking to continue to stop the spread of the virus.
"As we continue to follow the rules designed to protect our families, friends and loved ones, so should visitors to our country.
Advertisement
"And by stopping people coming in from spreading the virus further, we can control it and get back to normal sooner - meaning the tourism industry will be up and running faster."
In a message to critics, the ministers added: "We know that this will mean that challenges continue in the coming weeks, but that's why we have an unprecedented package of support - the most comprehensive in the world - both for employees and businesses.
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
"But we will all suffer if we get this wrong and that is why it is crucial that we introduce these measures now. Let's not throw away our progress in tackling this deadly virus. We owe it to the thousands who have died."
Hinting at a possible climb-down later this month, they said: "As with all COVID-19 policies, the government will review these and other measures, looking at global infection rates, the measures in place around the world, and the latest scientific advances.
"We are working with the transport industry to see how we can introduce agreements with other countries when safe to do so, so we can go abroad and tourists can come here.
"But as the prime minister has outlined, we must take it one step at a time. We must keep the country safe from potentially infected passengers unknowingly spreading the virus to others in society and ensure that the public's health always comes first."
The ministers confirm that from Monday, people arriving to the UK will need to self-isolate for 14 days.
Travel details and passenger contact information will need to be provided. There will be spot checks and fines.
A increasing number of MPs - including senior Tories - have spoken out against the quarantine plan over fears it could further harm the UK's struggling aviation sector.
And critics have rallied behind the proposal of air bridges being established with low-risk destinations, in order to get people flying again.
However, health minister Edward Argar was cautious about the prospect of Britons being able to enjoy a holiday this summer.
"I really hope people will be able to enjoy a holiday later this year," he told Sky News' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show.
"But it is hugely important that I say we can only do things like that when the infection rate and the risk of a second spike are so reduced.
"I don't think we're in a position to say that yet."
Labour's Rachel Reeves, the shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said her party supported the quarantine plan.
"We want people to be able to enjoy a holiday but we have got to stop a second spike in this virus, so it's right that we put in place those measures at airports and ports," she said.
"They should have been in place in March and then, perhaps, we wouldn't be in the dire situation we are - with one of the worst death rates in the world - in the UK."
This week until Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson urges people not to gather with others indoors as weather worsens

Boris Johnson has urged people not to start gathering indoors as the weather worsens , warning it could undermine the progress made in the fight against the coronavirus .
Speaking at the latest COVID-19 news conference in Downing Street , the prime minister told Britons : `` Some of you may be tempted to move the gatherings you 've been enjoying outdoors indoors out of the rain .
I really urge you : do n't do that . ''
A total of 39,728 people have now died in hospitals , care homes and the wider community after testing positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase of 359 from the day before .
Sir Patrick Vallance , the government 's chief scientific adviser , said the country had to `` tread very carefully '' as it started to come out of the coronavirus lockdown .
He said there could still be as many as 8,000 new cases of the virus a day in the UK , while the rate of transmission of COVID-19 remained close to 1 .
`` We have relatively large numbers still not coming down fast , '' Sir Patrick said .
`` That gives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to tread very cautiously , '' he said .
England 's chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , said that although the COVID-19 alert level remained unchanged at 4 , the lockdown could start to be eased .
He said this was because the government 's five tests were being met and the two measures were separate and not interlinked .
Mr Johnson said the government had eased the restrictions on gathering outside - with up to six people from different households allowed to meet provided they practise social distancing - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The evidence shows the risks of transmission are much lower outdoors , '' the PM explained .
`` And the risks of passing on the virus are significantly higher indoors which is why gatherings inside other people 's homes are still prohibited .
`` Breaking these rules now could undermine and reverse all the progress that we 've made together .
`` I have no doubt that wo n't happen . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker As the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the measures it will be introducing to try and keep the virus under control is a quarantine on international travellers arriving in the UK .
But the move has proven controversial , with warnings that it will cause huge damage to the aviation and travel industries .
The PM defended the plans , but in a move to placate opposition he said the government will `` explore the possibility '' of `` travel corridors '' with countries that have low rates of COVID-19 .
Mr Johnson would not be drawn on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abroad on holiday this year .
`` I 'm not going to give advice on individuals ' travel arrangements , but you know what the Foreign Office guidance is ... everybody at the moment should avoid non-essential travel , '' he said , adding : `` We have got to knock this virus on the head . ''
Asked about the economic impact of the pandemic , Mr Johnson admitted that `` tragically there will be many , many job losses '' .
`` That is just inevitable , '' the PM said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` activist '' approach to reviving the economy .
For instance , Mr Johnson said he believed it was `` vital '' to make sure that young people who were likely to be the hardest hit were guaranteed apprenticeships .
The PM also said he wanted to reduce the two-metre social distancing rule , despite Professor Whitty warning it would continue for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` We want to take some more steps to unlock our society and try to get back to as normal as possible , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latest briefing .
`` Eventually I would like to do such things as reducing the two-metre rule , for instance .
`` But all those changes , all that future progress depends entirely on our ability to keep reducing the incidents and driving down that disease . ''

Boris Johnson has urged people not to start gathering indoors as the weather worsens, warning it could undermine the progress made in the fight against the coronavirus.
Speaking at the latest COVID-19 news conference in Downing Street, the prime minister told Britons: "Some of you may be tempted to move the gatherings you've been enjoying outdoors indoors out of the rain. I really urge you: don't do that."
A total of 39,728 people have now died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for the coronavirus in the UK, an increase of 359 from the day before.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 10:01 A look at the government's COVID testing plan
Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's chief scientific adviser, said the country had to "tread very carefully" as it started to come out of the coronavirus lockdown.
He said there could still be as many as 8,000 new cases of the virus a day in the UK, while the rate of transmission of COVID-19 remained close to 1.
"We have relatively large numbers still not coming down fast," Sir Patrick said.
"That gives relatively little room for manoeuvre. We have to tread very cautiously," he said.
England's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said that although the COVID-19 alert level remained unchanged at 4, the lockdown could start to be eased.
He said this was because the government's five tests were being met and the two measures were separate and not interlinked.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:02 The search for a coronavirus cure
Mr Johnson said the government had eased the restrictions on gathering outside - with up to six people from different households allowed to meet provided they practise social distancing - "for a very specific reason".
"The evidence shows the risks of transmission are much lower outdoors," the PM explained.
"And the risks of passing on the virus are significantly higher indoors which is why gatherings inside other people's homes are still prohibited.
"Breaking these rules now could undermine and reverse all the progress that we've made together.
"I have no doubt that won't happen."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
As the government takes England out of lockdown, one of the measures it will be introducing to try and keep the virus under control is a quarantine on international travellers arriving in the UK.
This will include returning Britons.
But the move has proven controversial, with warnings that it will cause huge damage to the aviation and travel industries.
The PM defended the plans, but in a move to placate opposition he said the government will "explore the possibility" of "travel corridors" with countries that have low rates of COVID-19.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 Home Secretary Priti Patel said that the UK is now
Mr Johnson would not be drawn on whether Britons would be able to go abroad on holiday this year.
"I'm not going to give advice on individuals' travel arrangements, but you know what the Foreign Office guidance is... everybody at the moment should avoid non-essential travel," he said, adding: "We have got to knock this virus on the head."
Asked about the economic impact of the pandemic, Mr Johnson admitted that "tragically there will be many, many job losses".
"That is just inevitable," the PM said, adding that ministers would take an "activist" approach to reviving the economy.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:57 Lancet study backs distancing and face masks
For instance, Mr Johnson said he believed it was "vital" to make sure that young people who were likely to be the hardest hit were guaranteed apprenticeships.
The PM also said he wanted to reduce the two-metre social distancing rule, despite Professor Whitty warning it would continue for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We want to take some more steps to unlock our society and try to get back to as normal as possible," Mr Johnson said as he wrapped up the latest briefing.
"Eventually I would like to do such things as reducing the two-metre rule, for instance.
"But all those changes, all that future progress depends entirely on our ability to keep reducing the incidents and driving down that disease."


news--2020-06-03--UK prepared to sacrifice free trade deal with China to protect people of Hong Kong, Raab says

Britain ’ s foreign secretary is not looking for a Cold War with China .
In fact , Dominic Raab says there are many areas where the two countries collaborate , from climate change to the fight against coronavirus .
But it is becoming clear that this relationship with the world 's emerging superpower is not one the United Kingdom is willing to nurture at any cost .
A decision to call out President Xi Jinping over a national security law his country plans to impose on Hong Kong has put London and Beijing on a serious collision course once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This time though , China is in the ascendancy , while an international system of rules and institutions that underpin UK power and influence is under increased strain .
Add into the mix the global health emergency triggered by the coronavirus pandemic and Mr Raab 's Foreign and Commonwealth Office is navigating uniquely challenging waters .
Yet the foreign secretary remains confident the UK 's word still carries weight .
`` I think Britain still has an incredible role in the world as a force for good , '' he told Sky News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cited as an example the UK 's stance on Hong Kong - where it says it is calling out China for seeking to violate a Sino-British agreement that paved the way for the international financial hub to be handed back to Beijing in 1997 with its freedoms guaranteed for 50 years .
`` There is still - not in a colonial way , no one seriously thinks we are going back to that era - but actually Britain can be a force for good in a way that matches our interests and values @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raab was speaking on the day his boss , the prime minister , wrote that Britain would allow millions of Hong Kong residents a path to citizenship if China continues to push ahead with its security legislation for the territory .
The move - which would make it easier for nearly three million British National ( Overseas ) passport holders to live and work in the UK - drew a furious response from Beijing .
A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman accused the UK of having a `` Cold War mentality and colonial mindset @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raab , looking and sounding quite relaxed .
He was speaking in the vast Locarno Suite in the foreign office - selected to ensure social distancing was maintained with the Sky News crew .
`` It is nothing to do with containment , a new Cold War , anything like that .
It is simply a matter of living up to the responsibilities on both sides we have undertaken , '' he said .
The visa offer was made `` because we are not turning our back on the people of Hong Kong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if China does not back down .
A u-turn on such a high-profile issue appears extremely unlikely despite pressure from other western powers , led by the United States .
`` I do think it is right to work with our international partners to give China a breathing space if you like to have a look at this and see whether it is the right move and to work with our international partners about what we do next , '' Mr Raab said .
`` Equally we recognise China is a large power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a leading member of the international community .
`` I think the thing that will take the shine , if you like , off that rise - not just the economic impact of COVID-19 - but also if it can not live up to the deals that it makes , '' he said .
`` It comes down to an issue of trust .
Leading members of the international community , including China need to live up to their responsibilities otherwise fundamentally why would anyone trust them with any other deals we might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ? ''
Asked whether the UK was willing to sacrifice a trade deal with China to stand up for its values , the foreign secretary said : `` Us extending the UK BNO passport holder offer to come to the UK in the way that I have described is not contingent on a free trade deal or anything like that , we would n't allow that to get in the way of us living up to our responsibilities as a matter of principle both for moral reasons and international standing .
`` That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue having a conversation with China about all of these things .
`` We are not threatening anything .
We are just pointing out as a matter of black and white in the joint declaration that China signed that it is in violation , direct violation , of undertakings freely given and we expect - as we expect any member of the international community as they expect of us - China to live up to those responsibilities . ''
The tough talk on Hong Kong appears to be part of a hardening of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to what then Prime Minister David Cameron described as the `` golden era '' of British relations with the Asian powerhouse .
The National Security Council met on Tuesday to discuss China .
Intelligence officers are reviewing a decision by the UK to allow the Chinese telecommunications company Huawei to play a role in the next generation 5G network .
There is also suspicion that Chinese state-backed hackers are seeking to use cyber attacks to steal secrets from research institutes working on developing vaccines and treatment for COVID-19 .
Asked whether UK policy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` It is probably right to say that - more than the UK adjusting its approach from a point of view of strategy or anything like that - we are adjusting to the behaviour of China , whether it is in the field of cyber or in the field of IP [ intellectual property ] theft and now in relation to Hong Kong . ''
That said , post-Brexit Britain has big ambitions for a tilt towards Asia , which is seen as the engine of future growth in the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when he became foreign secretary last July was to a meeting a foreign ministers from the Association of South East Asian Nations ( ASEAN ) in Bangkok .
He 's hoping the UK can become what is called a `` dialogue partner '' to that club within the next two years .
In a first step , the government will submit its application to the ASEAN Secretariat on Thursday .
Also in focus is accession to an Asia-Pacific trade agreement called the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership .
`` We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those nations of the region because we see , not just in relation to China , but that whole area , huge opportunities in the future and also a place for the UK to exercise more influence as a force for good in the world , '' Mr Raab said .
It also has old alliances to think about .
None so important as the UK 's special relationship with the United States - a bond that is still of paramount importance despite a growing number of areas of divergence under the leadership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of fury at racial inequality has gripped the US over the past week following the death of a black man after he was knelt on by a white police officer .
Mr Raab said the killing of George Floyd was distressing as were the scenes of protest and violence that have played out in the streets .
`` I want to see America come together not rip itself apart , '' he said .
He would not be drawn directly to condemn police violence against unarmed protestors , but appeared to be concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the police as they were attempting to cover the demonstrations .
He said he was looking into the case of a British photojournalist , Adam Grey , who was detained by New York police at the weekend while working .
In an era where strength and power matters perhaps more than international treaties , the UK needs its allies .
It has walked away from the European Union but still sees strength in working closely with Europe 's two like-minded big powers - France and Germany .
There is also a growing trend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues with all or members of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance of the United States , Canada , New Zealand and Australia .
So how does Mr Raab envisage the UK 's role in the world as it emerges from a pandemic that has forced so much change ?
`` If you talk about ….Global Britain , part of that of course is … making sure we are good European neighbours with our European partners , '' Mr Raab said .
`` The second thing is… we want to boost the world economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking to global free trade , with European partners , Americans , Japanese , Australia , New Zealand to begin with is going to be really important , a great way boost opportunities for the world as well as British business and consumers . ''
He then repeats : `` I also think… Global Britain is also about us being a force for good in the world . ''

Britain’s foreign secretary is not looking for a Cold War with China.
In fact, Dominic Raab says there are many areas where the two countries collaborate, from climate change to the fight against coronavirus.
But it is becoming clear that this relationship with the world's emerging superpower is not one the United Kingdom is willing to nurture at any cost.
A decision to call out President Xi Jinping over a national security law his country plans to impose on Hong Kong has put London and Beijing on a serious collision course once again over the former British territory.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:09 Hong Kong 'no longer autonomous from China'
This time though, China is in the ascendancy, while an international system of rules and institutions that underpin UK power and influence is under increased strain.
Add into the mix the global health emergency triggered by the coronavirus pandemic and Mr Raab's Foreign and Commonwealth Office is navigating uniquely challenging waters.
Yet the foreign secretary remains confident the UK's word still carries weight.
"I think Britain still has an incredible role in the world as a force for good," he told Sky News in an exclusive interview.
Mr Raab cited as an example the UK's stance on Hong Kong - where it says it is calling out China for seeking to violate a Sino-British agreement that paved the way for the international financial hub to be handed back to Beijing in 1997 with its freedoms guaranteed for 50 years.
Advertisement
"There is still - not in a colonial way, no one seriously thinks we are going back to that era - but actually Britain can be a force for good in a way that matches our interests and values in the 21st century."
Mr Raab was speaking on the day his boss, the prime minister, wrote that Britain would allow millions of Hong Kong residents a path to citizenship if China continues to push ahead with its security legislation for the territory.
The move - which would make it easier for nearly three million British National (Overseas) passport holders to live and work in the UK - drew a furious response from Beijing.
A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman accused the UK of having a "Cold War mentality and colonial mindset".
Not so, said Mr Raab, looking and sounding quite relaxed.
He was speaking in the vast Locarno Suite in the foreign office - selected to ensure social distancing was maintained with the Sky News crew.
"It is nothing to do with containment, a new Cold War, anything like that. It is simply a matter of living up to the responsibilities on both sides we have undertaken," he said.
The visa offer was made "because we are not turning our back on the people of Hong Kong".
The UK could go further if China does not back down. A u-turn on such a high-profile issue appears extremely unlikely despite pressure from other western powers, led by the United States.
"I do think it is right to work with our international partners to give China a breathing space if you like to have a look at this and see whether it is the right move and to work with our international partners about what we do next," Mr Raab said.
"Equally we recognise China is a large power, a rising economic power and is a leading member of the international community.
"I think the thing that will take the shine, if you like, off that rise - not just the economic impact of COVID-19 - but also if it cannot live up to the deals that it makes," he said.
"It comes down to an issue of trust. Leading members of the international community, including China need to live up to their responsibilities otherwise fundamentally why would anyone trust them with any other deals we might make at any other point in time?"
Asked whether the UK was willing to sacrifice a trade deal with China to stand up for its values, the foreign secretary said: "Us extending the UK BNO passport holder offer to come to the UK in the way that I have described is not contingent on a free trade deal or anything like that, we wouldn't allow that to get in the way of us living up to our responsibilities as a matter of principle both for moral reasons and international standing.
"That is really important.
"We will continue having a conversation with China about all of these things.
"We are not threatening anything. We are just pointing out as a matter of black and white in the joint declaration that China signed that it is in violation, direct violation, of undertakings freely given and we expect - as we expect any member of the international community as they expect of us - China to live up to those responsibilities."
The tough talk on Hong Kong appears to be part of a hardening of the UK approach on China in contrast to what then Prime Minister David Cameron described as the "golden era" of British relations with the Asian powerhouse.
The National Security Council met on Tuesday to discuss China.
Intelligence officers are reviewing a decision by the UK to allow the Chinese telecommunications company Huawei to play a role in the next generation 5G network.
There is also suspicion that Chinese state-backed hackers are seeking to use cyber attacks to steal secrets from research institutes working on developing vaccines and treatment for COVID-19.
Image: Protesters take part in a pro-democracy rally against the proposed new security law in in May.
Image: Hundreds of protesters have been breaking coronavirus lockdown restrictions to publicly condemn the proposals.
Asked whether UK policy on China was changing, Mr Raab said: "It is probably right to say that - more than the UK adjusting its approach from a point of view of strategy or anything like that - we are adjusting to the behaviour of China, whether it is in the field of cyber or in the field of IP [intellectual property] theft and now in relation to Hong Kong."
That said, post-Brexit Britain has big ambitions for a tilt towards Asia, which is seen as the engine of future growth in the world.
Mr Raab's first overseas trip when he became foreign secretary last July was to a meeting a foreign ministers from the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Bangkok. He's hoping the UK can become what is called a "dialogue partner" to that club within the next two years.
In a first step, the government will submit its application to the ASEAN Secretariat on Thursday.
Also in focus is accession to an Asia-Pacific trade agreement called the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
"We are going to be working very closely with those nations of the region because we see, not just in relation to China, but that whole area, huge opportunities in the future and also a place for the UK to exercise more influence as a force for good in the world," Mr Raab said.
It also has old alliances to think about.
None so important as the UK's special relationship with the United States - a bond that is still of paramount importance despite a growing number of areas of divergence under the leadership of President Donald Trump.
An explosion of fury at racial inequality has gripped the US over the past week following the death of a black man after he was knelt on by a white police officer.
Mr Raab said the killing of George Floyd was distressing as were the scenes of protest and violence that have played out in the streets.
"I want to see America come together not rip itself apart," he said.
He would not be drawn directly to condemn police violence against unarmed protestors, but appeared to be concerned about reports of journalists being targeted by the police as they were attempting to cover the demonstrations.
He said he was looking into the case of a British photojournalist, Adam Grey, who was detained by New York police at the weekend while working.
In an era where strength and power matters perhaps more than international treaties, the UK needs its allies.
It has walked away from the European Union but still sees strength in working closely with Europe's two like-minded big powers - France and Germany.
There is also a growing trend of the UK issuing statements on global issues with all or members of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance of the United States, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
So how does Mr Raab envisage the UK's role in the world as it emerges from a pandemic that has forced so much change?
"If you talk about ….Global Britain, part of that of course is … making sure we are good European neighbours with our European partners," Mr Raab said.
"The second thing is… we want to boost the world economy and I think the approach we are taking to global free trade, with European partners, Americans, Japanese, Australia, New Zealand to begin with is going to be really important, a great way boost opportunities for the world as well as British business and consumers."
He then repeats: "I also think… Global Britain is also about us being a force for good in the world."


news--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Vast majority of the population at risk if there's a second wave, top scientist warns

One of the government 's scientific advisers has told Sky News that people have to assume a second wave of coronavirus `` is coming '' .
Sir Jeremy Farrar said that , although lockdown in the UK has suppressed COVID-19 , it has not changed the fundamental way it transmits between humans and `` we have not got rid of it '' .
The senior member of the Scientific Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) , which advises ministers on the pandemic , warned the vast majority of every population in every country remains susceptible to coronavirus - and if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be at risk of becoming infected .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Speaking on Sky 's After The Pandemic : Our New World , he said : `` This is now a human endemic infection .
In the UK and much of the world , actually only about 6 or 8 % of people have seen this infection and we hope are immune .
`` That means over 90 % of people have not seen yet this infection and are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added : `` What countries have got to do is learn lessons from the first wave .
`` Put in place things we did n't get right in the first wave , and make sure when we come into the autumn and the winter this year when other infections - influenza - will be circulating as well , we have everything we need in place so we can reduce the impact of that second wave . ''
Former chief medical officer for England , Professor Dame Sally Davies , said some nations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have had more outbreaks and she said there could even be a third wave coming .
She said : `` The countries that seem to have got rid of it still have cases popping up , and while it 's rattling around the world it will be very difficult to get rid of '' If you think about flu , it 's in the northern hemisphere , then it goes to the southern , it may mutate , but then it comes back round .
And it just goes round year after year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Dame Sally added : `` It 's not gone away in Britain .
We need to continue with the planning and the work that 's happening because , though I 'm not a forecaster or a modeller , I would prefer to be prepared for a second , and even maybe a third wave .
`` When we look back at 2009-10 , the mild flu pandemic , we had three waves and so we can expect more of this .
The question is - is it a big wave or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handle it , lots of little waves ?
It will go on until we are immune . ''
Sir Jeremy , who also serves as director of the Wellcome Trust , also said he was `` confident '' there would be a successful vaccine `` soon '' , but cautioned : `` What soon means I do n't know . ''
He said : `` We still do n't have vaccines for TB and malaria .
We ca n't put all hopes on a vaccine .
Yes I 'm optimistic , yes the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world , including here in the UK , but we ca n't assume we will have a vaccine . ''
On Thursday night at 8pm , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After The Pandemic : Our New World - a special live programme about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
The programme will include an exclusive interview with Prince Charles .

One of the government's scientific advisers has told Sky News that people have to assume a second wave of coronavirus "is coming".
Sir Jeremy Farrar said that, although lockdown in the UK has suppressed COVID-19, it has not changed the fundamental way it transmits between humans and "we have not got rid of it".
The senior member of the Scientific Group for Emergencies (SAGE), which advises ministers on the pandemic, warned the vast majority of every population in every country remains susceptible to coronavirus - and if there is a second wave, many would be at risk of becoming infected.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Speaking on Sky's After The Pandemic: Our New World, he said: "This is now a human endemic infection. In the UK and much of the world, actually only about 6 or 8% of people have seen this infection and we hope are immune.
"That means over 90% of people have not seen yet this infection and are probably still susceptible to it."
He added: "What countries have got to do is learn lessons from the first wave.
"Put in place things we didn't get right in the first wave, and make sure when we come into the autumn and the winter this year when other infections - influenza - will be circulating as well, we have everything we need in place so we can reduce the impact of that second wave."
Former chief medical officer for England, Professor Dame Sally Davies, said some nations that have got the virus under control have had more outbreaks and she said there could even be a third wave coming.
Advertisement
She said: "The countries that seem to have got rid of it still have cases popping up, and while it's rattling around the world it will be very difficult to get rid of
"If you think about flu, it's in the northern hemisphere, then it goes to the southern, it may mutate, but then it comes back round. And it just goes round year after year with different strains, and different changes."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:18 After the Pandemic: Science and Medicine
Dame Sally added: "It's not gone away in Britain. We need to continue with the planning and the work that's happening because, though I'm not a forecaster or a modeller, I would prefer to be prepared for a second, and even maybe a third wave.
"When we look back at 2009-10, the mild flu pandemic, we had three waves and so we can expect more of this. The question is - is it a big wave or is it because of the way we handle it, lots of little waves? It will go on until we are immune."
Sir Jeremy, who also serves as director of the Wellcome Trust, also said he was "confident" there would be a successful vaccine "soon", but cautioned: "What soon means I don't know."
He said: "We still don't have vaccines for TB and malaria. We can't put all hopes on a vaccine. Yes I'm optimistic, yes the science is progressing incredibly quickly all around the world, including here in the UK, but we can't assume we will have a vaccine."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:52 Prince Charles on having coronavirus
On Thursday night at 8pm, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After The Pandemic: Our New World - a special live programme about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
The programme will include an exclusive interview with Prince Charles.


news--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson promises COVID-19 tests will be 'turned around' in 24 hours by end of mon

Coronavirus: Boris Johnson promises COVID-19 tests will be 'turned around' in 24 hours by end of month

Boris Johnson has promised that all coronavirus tests will be `` turned around '' within 24 hours by the end of the month , as he defended the government 's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic .
The prime minister made the pledge in response to a question from his former Conservative leadership rival Jeremy Hunt .
`` We already do 90 % of tests turned around within 24 hours , '' Mr Johnson told MPs .
`` Of the tests conducted at the 199 testing centres , as well as the mobile centres , they 're all done within 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( Mr Hunt ) now to get all tests turned around within 24 hours by the end of June except for difficulties with postal tests or insuperable problems like that . ''
The pledge came during the weekly clash between Mr Johnson and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at PMQs .
This week 's instalment saw the PM defend the government 's handling of the coronavirus outbreak and featured a number of pointed attacks exchanged by the pair .
Sir Keir claimed Mr Johnson 's use of statistics was damaging public trust in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit out at the Labour leader 's `` endless attacks on public trust and confidence '' .
Sir Keir responded by saying Mr Johnson was `` confusing scrutiny for attacks '' , adding : `` I have supported the government openly and I 've taken criticism for it , but boy he makes it difficult to support this government over the last two weeks . ''
The Labour leader claimed the PM had refused an offer to work together on building a consensus on the reopening of England 's schools , something that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a return to the kind of attacks seen in previous sessions of PMQs before the coronavirus pandemic , the PM said of Sir Keir : `` Our policy is test , trace and isolate , his policy is agree , U-turn and then criticise . ''
Beginning his questioning of his opposite number , Sir Keir referenced a newspaper report which said Mr Johnson has decided to `` take direct control '' of the virus response .
He asked : `` So an obvious question for the prime minister , who 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ? ''
The PM said in response that he took `` full responsibility for everything this government has been doing '' and that he was `` very proud of our record '' .
He rejected criticism from the Labour leader that the test , track and trace system was not yet fully operational .
Mr Johnson said the system had been established from a `` standing start '' , with `` 40,000 people engaged in this '' .
`` Every person who tests positive in this country is contacted , '' the PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He added that `` thousands of people are now following the law and self-isolating to stop the spread of the disease '' .
Addressing a Public Health England review which found that people from a BAME background are up to twice as likely to die with the virus than those from a white British background , Mr Johnson said he took the issue `` very seriously '' .
`` There obviously are inequalities in the way the virus impacts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our country , '' he said .
The PM added that equalities minister Kemi Badenoch will be looking at `` what next practical steps we need to do to protect all our country from coronavirus '' .
The return of MPs to the Commons on Tuesday was also a source of contention between Mr Johnson and Sir Keir .
The Labour leader said the scenes of MPs queueing up throughout the parliamentary estate to give their verdict on a return to physical voting was `` shameful '' , with many not able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pushed the PM to end the `` completely unnecessary and unacceptable '' process and instead allow remote voting to resume .
Mr Johnson said MPs should consider `` what is really going on throughout the country '' , with Britons `` getting used to queuing for long periods of time to do their shopping or whatever it happens to be '' .
The PM continued : `` I do not think it 's unreasonable that we should ask parliamentarians to come back to this place and do their job for the people of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that elderly MPs or those who are shielding would be allowed to vote by proxy , a change in stance from Tuesday .
Tonight and tomorrow night at 8pm , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After The Pandemic : Our New World - a special live programme about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
Thursday 's programme will include an exclusive interview with Prince Charles .

Boris Johnson has promised that all coronavirus tests will be "turned around" within 24 hours by the end of the month, as he defended the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The prime minister made the pledge in response to a question from his former Conservative leadership rival Jeremy Hunt.
"We already do 90% of tests turned around within 24 hours," Mr Johnson told MPs.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:02 The search for a coronavirus cure
"Of the tests conducted at the 199 testing centres, as well as the mobile centres, they're all done within 24 hours and I can undertake to him (Mr Hunt) now to get all tests turned around within 24 hours by the end of June except for difficulties with postal tests or insuperable problems like that."
The pledge came during the weekly clash between Mr Johnson and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at PMQs.
This week's instalment saw the PM defend the government's handling of the coronavirus outbreak and featured a number of pointed attacks exchanged by the pair.
Sir Keir claimed Mr Johnson's use of statistics was damaging public trust in his government, prompting the PM to hit out at the Labour leader's "endless attacks on public trust and confidence".
Sir Keir responded by saying Mr Johnson was "confusing scrutiny for attacks", adding: "I have supported the government openly and I've taken criticism for it, but boy he makes it difficult to support this government over the last two weeks."
The Labour leader claimed the PM had refused an offer to work together on building a consensus on the reopening of England's schools, something that was disputed by Mr Johnson.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 Moment nurse reunites with daughters
And in a return to the kind of attacks seen in previous sessions of PMQs before the coronavirus pandemic, the PM said of Sir Keir: "Our policy is test, trace and isolate, his policy is agree, U-turn and then criticise."
Beginning his questioning of his opposite number, Sir Keir referenced a newspaper report which said Mr Johnson has decided to "take direct control" of the virus response.
He asked: "So an obvious question for the prime minister, who's been in direct control up until now?"
The PM said in response that he took "full responsibility for everything this government has been doing" and that he was "very proud of our record".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 10:01 A look at the government's COVID testing plan
He rejected criticism from the Labour leader that the test, track and trace system was not yet fully operational.
Mr Johnson said the system had been established from a "standing start", with "40,000 people engaged in this".
"Every person who tests positive in this country is contacted," the PM told the Commons.
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
He added that "thousands of people are now following the law and self-isolating to stop the spread of the disease".
Addressing a Public Health England review which found that people from a BAME background are up to twice as likely to die with the virus than those from a white British background, Mr Johnson said he took the issue "very seriously".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:13 'Black lives matter' - health secretary on PHE report
"There obviously are inequalities in the way the virus impacts on different people, different communities in our country," he said.
The PM added that equalities minister Kemi Badenoch will be looking at "what next practical steps we need to do to protect all our country from coronavirus".
The return of MPs to the Commons on Tuesday was also a source of contention between Mr Johnson and Sir Keir.
The Labour leader said the scenes of MPs queueing up throughout the parliamentary estate to give their verdict on a return to physical voting was "shameful", with many not able to do so for health reasons.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:11 MPs form socially-distanced queue to vote
He pushed the PM to end the "completely unnecessary and unacceptable" process and instead allow remote voting to resume.
Mr Johnson said MPs should consider "what is really going on throughout the country", with Britons "getting used to queuing for long periods of time to do their shopping or whatever it happens to be".
The PM continued: "I do not think it's unreasonable that we should ask parliamentarians to come back to this place and do their job for the people of this country."
He did say that elderly MPs or those who are shielding would be allowed to vote by proxy, a change in stance from Tuesday.
Tonight and tomorrow night at 8pm, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After The Pandemic: Our New World - a special live programme about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
Thursday's programme will include an exclusive interview with Prince Charles.


news--2020-05-21--Coronavirus: Italian PM says country is over worst and cannot afford to wait for vaccine before rest

Coronavirus: Italian PM says country is over worst and cannot afford to wait for vaccine before restarting economy

Italy 's prime minister has said the country is over the worst of the global pandemic - and that they can not afford to wait for a vaccine to kick-start the economy .
Giuseppe Conte told Italian politicians that banks must now move towards `` accelerating the procedures to grant state-backed loans '' to help get the country 's economy going after the coronavirus outbreak .
During the meeting with MPs , Mr Conte said : `` We can say that the worst is behind us ... we can not stop to wait for a vaccine , otherwise we would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and production system . ''
He also urged Italians to take their holidays in Italy rather than going overseas - though they must remain vigilant .
`` In this phase , more than ever , [ you must have ] respect for safety distances and where necessary the use of masks remains fundamental , '' he said .
`` It is not the time for parties , nightlife , and gatherings . ''
On Monday , Italy began easing its lockdown rules and allowing shops , bars , cafes and restaurants to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a two-metre distance of each other .
Museums , beaches and church services have also resumed , including a public mass at the Vatican .
Italy began lifting lockdown on 4 May , when it allowed factories and parks to reopen .
Italy 's lockdown began in February , when parts of the worst-affected Lombardy region began quarantining .
This expanded to the whole country on 9 March .
The country still has the sixth highest number of cases in the world , with more than 227,000 people reportedly being infected .
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A total of 32,330 people have died after contracting the virus , the third highest total in the world .
The UK currently has the second highest total with more than 35,000 deaths while the US has the most , with more than 93,000 deaths .

Italy's prime minister has said the country is over the worst of the global pandemic - and that they cannot afford to wait for a vaccine to kick-start the economy.
Giuseppe Conte told Italian politicians that banks must now move towards "accelerating the procedures to grant state-backed loans" to help get the country's economy going after the coronavirus outbreak.
Image: Women are seen enjoying a drink al fresco as Italy began easing lockdown on 18 May
During the meeting with MPs, Mr Conte said: "We can say that the worst is behind us... we cannot stop to wait for a vaccine, otherwise we would find ourselves with an irreparably compromised society and production system."
He also urged Italians to take their holidays in Italy rather than going overseas - though they must remain vigilant.
"In this phase, more than ever, [you must have] respect for safety distances and where necessary the use of masks remains fundamental," he said. "It is not the time for parties, nightlife, and gatherings."
On Monday, Italy began easing its lockdown rules and allowing shops, bars, cafes and restaurants to reopen, as long as people stay within a two-metre distance of each other.
Museums, beaches and church services have also resumed, including a public mass at the Vatican.
Italy began lifting lockdown on 4 May, when it allowed factories and parks to reopen.
Italy's lockdown began in February, when parts of the worst-affected Lombardy region began quarantining. This expanded to the whole country on 9 March.
Advertisement
The country still has the sixth highest number of cases in the world, with more than 227,000 people reportedly being infected.
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
A total of 32,330 people have died after contracting the virus, the third highest total in the world.
The UK currently has the second highest total with more than 35,000 deaths while the US has the most, with more than 93,000 deaths.


news--2020-04-12--Coronavirus hospital deaths in UK top 10,000 as Matt Hancock says it is 'sombre day'

Another 737 people have died with coronavirus in UK hospitals , taking the total to 10,612 , says the Department of Health .
It is the first time the fatality figure has exceeded 10,000 .
The total number of COVID-19 infections in the UK is now 84,279 .
In England , a further 657 people have died , bringing the overall number of coronavirus-related deaths to 10,532 .
Of the deaths recorded in England , there were 42 patients aged between 30 and 98 who had no known underlying health condition .
The different nations in the UK collate their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so there are sometimes discrepancies between the government 's total and when each nation 's numbers are added together .
Speaking at the government 's daily briefing , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : `` Today marks a sombre day in the impact of this disease as we join the list of countries who have seen more than 10,000 deaths related to coronavirus .
`` The fact that over 10,000 people have now lost their lives to this invisible killer demonstrates just how serious this coronavirus is and why the national effort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important . ''
However , the latest figures do not give a true picture of fatalities overall , as they do not include deaths in care homes .
It comes amid mounting concerns that elderly residents in nursing homes and the staff looking after them have been `` forgotten '' during the coronavirus crisis .
It has also been confirmed three more nurses have died after contracting the virus , taking the number of NHS staff deaths to more than 30 .
However , it is not known if the nurses , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales , were infected while working .
Meanwhile , controversy continues to grow around the lack of personal protective equipment for health workers on the frontline .
: : Listen to the Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In response , the Royal College of Nursing ( RCN ) has issued new guidance to its members , saying they have the right to refuse to treat infected patients `` as a last resort '' if they are not given the proper clothing and masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slow to to tackle shortages , Business Secretary Alok Sharma admitted to Sky News that more needed to be done to get protective equipment to medical staff , but refused to apologise for the situation .
• Boris Johnson is discharged from hospital but wo n't immediately return to work • Government adviser Sir Jeremy Farrar has warned the UK could be the worst hit in Europe • The Archbishop of Canterbury delivered his Easter Sunday sermon from his kitchen table , pre-recorded on his computer tablet

Another 737 people have died with coronavirus in UK hospitals, taking the total to 10,612, says the Department of Health.
It is the first time the fatality figure has exceeded 10,000.
The total number of COVID-19 infections in the UK is now 84,279.
In England, a further 657 people have died, bringing the overall number of coronavirus-related deaths to 10,532.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:43 'We've never faced anything like this'
Of the deaths recorded in England, there were 42 patients aged between 30 and 98 who had no known underlying health condition.
Scotland recorded a further 24 deaths, Wales 18 and Northern Ireland 11.
The different nations in the UK collate their figures at different times throughout the day, so there are sometimes discrepancies between the government's total and when each nation's numbers are added together.
Speaking at the government's daily briefing, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "Today marks a sombre day in the impact of this disease as we join the list of countries who have seen more than 10,000 deaths related to coronavirus.
"The fact that over 10,000 people have now lost their lives to this invisible killer demonstrates just how serious this coronavirus is and why the national effort that everyone is engaged in is so important."
Advertisement
However, the latest figures do not give a true picture of fatalities overall, as they do not include deaths in care homes.
It comes amid mounting concerns that elderly residents in nursing homes and the staff looking after them have been "forgotten" during the coronavirus crisis.
It has also been confirmed three more nurses have died after contracting the virus, taking the number of NHS staff deaths to more than 30.
However, it is not known if the nurses, who worked in London, Worcestershire and South Wales, were infected while working.
Meanwhile, controversy continues to grow around the lack of personal protective equipment for health workers on the frontline.
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 Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In response, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has issued new guidance to its members, saying they have the right to refuse to treat infected patients "as a last resort" if they are not given the proper clothing and masks.
With the government accused of being slow to to tackle shortages, Business Secretary Alok Sharma admitted to Sky News that more needed to be done to get protective equipment to medical staff, but refused to apologise for the situation.
In other developments:


news--2020-04-11--Boris Johnson: I owe coronavirus doctors and nurses my life after treatment

Boris Johnson has praised the `` exemplary '' care he has received from doctors and nurses during his coronavirus treatment , saying : `` I owe them my life . ''
Hailing the work of medics at St Thomas ' Hospital in London , the prime minister said : `` I ca n't thank them enough . ''
Mr Johnson spent his seventh night in hospital after being admitted last Sunday , 10 days after testing positive for COVID-19 , the disease caused by coronavirus .
Downing Street has said the prime minister is making `` very good progress '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of intensive care , and had been playing games and watching films from his hospital bed .
There has been no update on when he is likely to be discharged .
Mr Johnson 's remarks came after it was confirmed another 917 coronavirus patients had died in hospitals in the UK - including an 11-year-old - bringing the country 's total number of deaths to 9,875 .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed that at least 19 NHS workers were among those to have died after contracting COVID-19 .
At the daily Downing Street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Priti Patel said she was `` sorry if people feel there have been failings '' in providing personal protective equipment to NHS staff .
Fears had grown for Mr Johnson 's health when he was transferred to intensive care on Monday after his condition worsened .
The 55-year-old spent three nights there before Downing Street confirmed he was in the `` early phase of his recovery '' and had been moved back to a normal hospital ward .
Mr Johnson 's fiancee Carrie Symonds , who is pregnant with their first child together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lift his spirits during his time in intensive care .
The couple have not seen each other since he was admitted to hospital .
Ms Symonds , who is due to give birth in two months , has also been ill with coronavirus symptoms in recent weeks , but she has not been tested for the virus .
Since coming out of intensive care , the prime minister has been able to take short walks between periods of rest while being treated on a low-dependency ward .
: : Listen to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is deputising for the prime minister in his absence .
Sky News political correspondent Rob Powell said Number 10 had difficult decisions to make about re-involving Mr Johnson in the fight against COVID-19 .
He said : `` The balance for the government will be taking the medical advice that the prime minister is getting at St Thomas ' Hospital - taking that seriously , and allowing him enough time to recuperate fully , but also at some point maybe looking to involve him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

Boris Johnson has praised the "exemplary" care he has received from doctors and nurses during his coronavirus treatment, saying: "I owe them my life."
Hailing the work of medics at St Thomas' Hospital in London, the prime minister said: "I can't thank them enough."
Mr Johnson spent his seventh night in hospital after being admitted last Sunday, 10 days after testing positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus.
Image: Mr Johnson is being treated at St Thomas' Hospital in London
Downing Street has said the prime minister is making "very good progress" in his recovery after being moved out of intensive care, and had been playing games and watching films from his hospital bed.
There has been no update on when he is likely to be discharged.
Mr Johnson's remarks came after it was confirmed another 917 coronavirus patients had died in hospitals in the UK - including an 11-year-old - bringing the country's total number of deaths to 9,875.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed that at least 19 NHS workers were among those to have died after contracting COVID-19.
At the daily Downing Street news conference on Saturday, Home Secretary Priti Patel said she was "sorry if people feel there have been failings" in providing personal protective equipment to NHS staff.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 'I'm sorry if people feel there have been failures'
Fears had grown for Mr Johnson's health when he was transferred to intensive care on Monday after his condition worsened.
Advertisement
The 55-year-old spent three nights there before Downing Street confirmed he was in the "early phase of his recovery" and had been moved back to a normal hospital ward.
Mr Johnson's fiancee Carrie Symonds, who is pregnant with their first child together, sent him letters and baby scans to lift his spirits during his time in intensive care.
Image: Carrie Symonds has been sending letters and baby scans to the prime minister in hospital. Pic:Javier Garcia/BPI/Shutterstock
The couple have not seen each other since he was admitted to hospital.
Ms Symonds, who is due to give birth in two months, has also been ill with coronavirus symptoms in recent weeks, but she has not been tested for the virus.
Since coming out of intensive care, the prime minister has been able to take short walks between periods of rest while being treated on a low-dependency ward.
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
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is deputising for the prime minister in his absence.
Sky News political correspondent Rob Powell said Number 10 had difficult decisions to make about re-involving Mr Johnson in the fight against COVID-19.
He said: "The balance for the government will be taking the medical advice that the prime minister is getting at St Thomas' Hospital - taking that seriously, and allowing him enough time to recuperate fully, but also at some point maybe looking to involve him in some of the decision making."


news--2020-04-12--Coronavirus: Half of A&E staff at one hospital in Wales have COVID-19, reveals medic

Around half of the A & E staff at a hospital in South Wales have tested positive for coronavirus , a consultant working there has warned .
Dr Tim Rogerson said 50 % of the consultants and nurses - himself included - at the Royal Gwent Hospital 's accident and emergency department in Newport had tested positive for COVID-19 .
The doctor revealed the figure in a video posted to Facebook by the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board .
The health board area , which includes Blaenau Gwent , Caerphilly , Monmouthshire , Newport and Torfaen , has the highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently standing at 1,453 - and one of the worst in the UK .
The number of people who have died in hospitals in Wales after catching the disease rose to 369 on Sunday as 18 more fatalities were recorded .
The total for the whole of the UK rose above the 10,000 mark .
Dr Rogerson said he had been off work since experiencing `` mild to moderate '' coronavirus symptoms and that his son has also tested positive for the virus .
He said : `` Sadly , I have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with pretty much the full house of symptoms of coronavirus : the fever , the aches , the sort throat and a lack of sense of smell .
`` This has obviously happened despite all of the PPE ( personal protective equipment ) that we 've got and all the hand washing that we 're doing but it 's probably just a likely thing that 's going to happen when we 're faced with such numbers of patients coming in with coronavirus .
`` We 're probably up to around 50 % of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A & E who have swabbed positive for the coronavirus and a similar percent in our nursing team .
: : Listen to the Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' It 's probably inevitable and it is proving a challenge when it 's coming to staffing the department when we are facing these numbers coming through . ''
Dr Rogerson added : `` All staff on the various frontlines are putting themselves into harm 's way when we 're dealing with patients who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged people to follow the government 's advice and stay home over the Easter weekend , warning that breaching the guidelines would hit the hospital 's intensive care unit capacity in `` two weeks ' time '' .

Around half of the A&E staff at a hospital in South Wales have tested positive for coronavirus, a consultant working there has warned.
Dr Tim Rogerson said 50% of the consultants and nurses - himself included - at the Royal Gwent Hospital's accident and emergency department in Newport had tested positive for COVID-19.
Image: The Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport is in a coronavirus hotspot
The doctor revealed the figure in a video posted to Facebook by the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board.
The health board area, which includes Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen, has the highest number of confirmed cases in Wales - currently standing at 1,453 - and one of the worst in the UK.
The number of people who have died in hospitals in Wales after catching the disease rose to 369 on Sunday as 18 more fatalities were recorded.
The total for the whole of the UK rose above the 10,000 mark.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 ‘Today marks a sombre day’ - Matt Hancock
Dr Rogerson said he had been off work since experiencing "mild to moderate" coronavirus symptoms and that his son has also tested positive for the virus.
He said: "Sadly, I have been off since Sunday (5 April) with pretty much the full house of symptoms of coronavirus: the fever, the aches, the sort throat and a lack of sense of smell.
"This has obviously happened despite all of the PPE (personal protective equipment) that we've got and all the hand washing that we're doing but it's probably just a likely thing that's going to happen when we're faced with such numbers of patients coming in with coronavirus.
Advertisement
"We're probably up to around 50% of the consultant workforce at the Gwent in A&E who have swabbed positive for the coronavirus and a similar percent in our nursing team.
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 Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"It's probably inevitable and it is proving a challenge when it's coming to staffing the department when we are facing these numbers coming through."
Dr Rogerson added: "All staff on the various frontlines are putting themselves into harm's way when we're dealing with patients who have coronavirus symptoms."
The medic urged people to follow the government's advice and stay home over the Easter weekend, warning that breaching the guidelines would hit the hospital's intensive care unit capacity in "two weeks' time".