news--2020-05-23--Coronavirus: JLR seeks state loan to overcome crisis

Britain 's biggest carmaker is in talks with Whitehall about a massive taxpayer support package as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc across manufacturing industries .
Sky News has learnt that Jaguar Land Rover ( JLR ) has submitted the largest bespoke loan request of the COVID-19 crisis to ministers in recent weeks .
The plea is understood to have been for temporary state funding of well over £1bn , although a JLR spokesman described suggestions that it was as high as £2bn as `` inaccurate and speculative '' .
This weekend , the company said : `` Jaguar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussion with government on a whole range of matters relating to COVID and we will not discuss details which are confidential and private . ''
A source close to JLR confirmed that a loan request had been lodged with the Department for Business , Energy and Industrial Strategy ( BEIS ) and said it was being considered by ministers .
Last weekend , The Sunday Times reported that the Indian-owned carmaker was among the companies in which taxpayers could ultimately take an equity stake as part of an extension of efforts to prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ JLR , a subsidiary of Tata Motors , is a giant of British industry , employing approximately 38,000 people .
It operates three main production sites : at Castle Bromwich and Solihull in the Midlands , and Halewood on Merseyside .
Approximately 20,000 of its employees have been furloughed under the government 's emergency wage subsidy programme , according to a spokesman , although about 2000 employees at the Solihull site returned to work this week .
Its cash position has been made far less robust by the pandemic , with the ratings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the company was burning through £1bn every month .
In April , it said total retail sales for the fourth quarter , ending 31 March , had slumped by almost 31 % to 110,000 vehicles as a result of the pandemic .
JLR added that it had ended the financial year with cash and investments of £3.6bn , while it also had undrawn bank facilities of £1.9bn .
It was unclear this weekend how those figures had changed in the seven weeks since then .
Last summer , the company secured £500m of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Export Finance .
That came just weeks after it reported a £3.6bn annual loss .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Whitehall 's position on JLR 's latest loan request was unclear this weekend , although it is unlikely that ministers would allow a company as vital to the UK 's manufacturing capability as vital as JLR to collapse .
The fact that JLR is owned by Tata , the wealthy Indian conglomerate , may complicate matters , however .
Tata Steel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ request for a £500m loan from taxpayers , while other companies seeking bespoke support packages include McLaren , Petroineos and Virgin Atlantic Airways .
In each case , company sources say the government has applied pressure on them to exhaust private funding resources before any money would be made available from taxpayers .
Any state support might therefore need JLR 's shareholder to inject new funding alongside it .
A BEIS spokesman said : `` The Government is in regular contact with the car manufacturing sector to assist them through this crisis .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry as a result of coronavirus and firms can draw upon the unprecedented package of measures , including schemes to raise capital , flexibilities with tax bills , and financial support for employees . ''
Given the rate at which it is exhausting its cash reserves , the expansion this week of the Treasury 's Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme is unlikely to provide much assistance to JLR .
Under the revamped scheme , companies can access state-guaranteed loans of up to £200m .
The Covid Corporate Financing Facility , a commercial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England , is likely to be inaccessible to JLR because of its junk credit rating .
JLR announced earlier this year that Ralf Speth , its long-serving chief executive , would step down in September , although it is conceivable that he will remain in the role for longer to help deal with the crisis facing the automotive industry .
As part of its efforts to conserve cash , JLR will prioritise making models such as Range Rovers and Land Rover Defenders in the coming months .
It has told suppliers that spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new electric saloon and revamps of its XE and XF models , will be put on hold .
Severe pain is already being felt in the supply chains of major car manufacturers , with Arlington Industries - whose customers include JLR - calling in administrators earlier this month .
Other UK-based suppliers to JLR also say they have faced payment delays and have been warned on further potential cutbacks .
JLR is by no means the only large car manufacturer which has been hit hard by the coronavirus outbreak .
Figures published earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in April to their lowest level since 1946 .
Of the 4,321 new cars registered last month , most were fleet orders registered prior to the coronavirus crisis .
This week , Vauxhall 's parent company told Sky News ' business correspondent , Paul Kelso , that it wanted the government to allow car showrooms to open from Monday to help kickstart the industry 's recovery .
A government spokesperson said : `` The government is in regular contact with the car manufacturing sector to assist them through this crisis .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a result of coronavirus and firms can draw upon the unprecedented package of measures , including schemes to raise capital , flexibilities with tax bills , and financial support for employees . ''

Britain's biggest carmaker is in talks with Whitehall about a massive taxpayer support package as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc across manufacturing industries.
Sky News has learnt that Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has submitted the largest bespoke loan request of the COVID-19 crisis to ministers in recent weeks.
The plea is understood to have been for temporary state funding of well over £1bn, although a JLR spokesman described suggestions that it was as high as £2bn as "inaccurate and speculative".
This weekend, the company said: ''Jaguar Land Rover [is] constantly in discussion with government on a whole range of matters relating to COVID and we will not discuss details which are confidential and private.''
A source close to JLR confirmed that a loan request had been lodged with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and said it was being considered by ministers.
Last weekend, The Sunday Times reported that the Indian-owned carmaker was among the companies in which taxpayers could ultimately take an equity stake as part of an extension of efforts to prevent key sectors of the economy collapsing.
JLR, a subsidiary of Tata Motors, is a giant of British industry, employing approximately 38,000 people.
Image: Jaguar's Castle Bromwich manufacturing facility
It operates three main production sites: at Castle Bromwich and Solihull in the Midlands, and Halewood on Merseyside.
Approximately 20,000 of its employees have been furloughed under the government's emergency wage subsidy programme, according to a spokesman, although about 2000 employees at the Solihull site returned to work this week.
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Its cash position has been made far less robust by the pandemic, with the ratings agency Standard & Poor estimating recently that the company was burning through £1bn every month.
In April, it said total retail sales for the fourth quarter, ending 31 March, had slumped by almost 31% to 110,000 vehicles as a result of the pandemic.
JLR added that it had ended the financial year with cash and investments of £3.6bn, while it also had undrawn bank facilities of £1.9bn.
It was unclear this weekend how those figures had changed in the seven weeks since then.
Last summer, the company secured £500m of government-guaranteed loans in a deal with UK Export Finance.
That came just weeks after it reported a £3.6bn annual loss.
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Whitehall's position on JLR's latest loan request was unclear this weekend, although it is unlikely that ministers would allow a company as vital to the UK's manufacturing capability as vital as JLR to collapse.
The fact that JLR is owned by Tata, the wealthy Indian conglomerate, may complicate matters, however.
Tata Steel's UK operations have made a separate request for a £500m loan from taxpayers, while other companies seeking bespoke support packages include McLaren, Petroineos and Virgin Atlantic Airways.
In each case, company sources say the government has applied pressure on them to exhaust private funding resources before any money would be made available from taxpayers.
Any state support might therefore need JLR's shareholder to inject new funding alongside it.
A BEIS spokesman said: "The Government is in regular contact with the car manufacturing sector to assist them through this crisis.
"We recognise the challenges facing the industry as a result of coronavirus and firms can draw upon the unprecedented package of measures, including schemes to raise capital, flexibilities with tax bills, and financial support for employees."
Given the rate at which it is exhausting its cash reserves, the expansion this week of the Treasury's Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme is unlikely to provide much assistance to JLR.
Under the revamped scheme, companies can access state-guaranteed loans of up to £200m.
The Covid Corporate Financing Facility, a commercial paper programme administered by the Bank of England, is likely to be inaccessible to JLR because of its junk credit rating.
Image: Jaguar Land Rover CEO Ralf Speth is standing down in September
JLR announced earlier this year that Ralf Speth, its long-serving chief executive, would step down in September, although it is conceivable that he will remain in the role for longer to help deal with the crisis facing the automotive industry.
As part of its efforts to conserve cash, JLR will prioritise making models such as Range Rovers and Land Rover Defenders in the coming months.
It has told suppliers that spending on other programmes, such as a new electric saloon and revamps of its XE and XF models, will be put on hold.
Severe pain is already being felt in the supply chains of major car manufacturers, with Arlington Industries - whose customers include JLR - calling in administrators earlier this month.
Other UK-based suppliers to JLR also say they have faced payment delays and have been warned on further potential cutbacks.
JLR is by no means the only large car manufacturer which has been hit hard by the coronavirus outbreak.
Figures published earlier this month showed UK car sales fell in April to their lowest level since 1946.
Of the 4,321 new cars registered last month, most were fleet orders registered prior to the coronavirus crisis.
This week, Vauxhall's parent company told Sky News' business correspondent, Paul Kelso, that it wanted the government to allow car showrooms to open from Monday to help kickstart the industry's recovery.
A government spokesperson said: "The government is in regular contact with the car manufacturing sector to assist them through this crisis.
"We recognise the challenges facing the industry as a result of coronavirus and firms can draw upon the unprecedented package of measures, including schemes to raise capital, flexibilities with tax bills, and financial support for employees."


news--2020-05-23--Coronavirus is taking 'different path' in Africa due to age differences

Coronavirus appears to be taking a `` different pathway '' in Africa compared with the rest of the world , the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) has said .
The number of infections surpassed 100,000 on Friday , with the continent not experiencing the very high numbers devastating many countries despite its fragile health systems .
More than 3,100 people have died from COVID-19 across the continent of 1.3 billion people , while 41,473 people have recovered since the virus was first detected on the continent 14 weeks ago .
By comparison , Europe had more than 4,900 deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic `` appears to be taking a different pathway in Africa , '' the WHO said .
Case numbers `` have not grown at the same exponential rate as in other regions '' and the continent has not experienced the high mortality seen in some parts of the world .
This could be the result of `` demography and other possible factors '' , early analysis by the WHO suggests .
`` Africa is the youngest continent demographically with more than 60 % of the population under the age of 25 .
Older @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developing a severe illness .
In Europe nearly 95 % of deaths occurred in those older than 60 years '' , the WHO added .
The global health body also highlighted that African governments swiftly imposed restrictive measures on their populations in attempt to curb the spread of the virus .
And despite `` significant progress in testing '' , rates of testing in Africa remain low in comparison to other countries .
But while the number of cases remains low , the WHO warned that the pandemic `` remains a major threat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Africa saw roughly the same number of new cases in the past week as the week before , according to the director of Africa Centres for Disease Control , John Nkengasong .
He said that `` we hope that trend continues '' instead of a rapid exponential crisis .
While early lockdowns slowed the growth of the pandemic across Africa , Mr Nkengasong insisted it `` does n't mean Africa has been spared '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Africa chief Matshidiso Moeti said that COVID-19 had made a soft landfall in Africa but `` we must not be lulled into complacency '' .
Cases could increase significantly now that many countries are gradually lifting lockdowns , the WHO said

Coronavirus appears to be taking a "different pathway" in Africa compared with the rest of the world, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said.
The number of infections surpassed 100,000 on Friday, with the continent not experiencing the very high numbers devastating many countries despite its fragile health systems.
More than 3,100 people have died from COVID-19 across the continent of 1.3 billion people, while 41,473 people have recovered since the virus was first detected on the continent 14 weeks ago.
Image: A city worker in Accra, Ghana, disinfects a market as a preventive measure against the spreading of COVID-19
By comparison, Europe had more than 4,900 deaths when it reached 100,000 infections.
The pandemic "appears to be taking a different pathway in Africa," the WHO said.
Case numbers "have not grown at the same exponential rate as in other regions" and the continent has not experienced the high mortality seen in some parts of the world.
This could be the result of "demography and other possible factors", early analysis by the WHO suggests.
"Africa is the youngest continent demographically with more than 60% of the population under the age of 25. Older adults have a significantly increased risk of developing a severe illness. In Europe nearly 95% of deaths occurred in those older than 60 years", the WHO added.
The global health body also highlighted that African governments swiftly imposed restrictive measures on their populations in attempt to curb the spread of the virus.
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Image: A woman in Abidjan, in the Ivory Coast, carries a gas bottle on her head while wearing a mask
And despite "significant progress in testing", rates of testing in Africa remain low in comparison to other countries.
But while the number of cases remains low, the WHO warned that the pandemic "remains a major threat to the continent's health systems".
Africa saw roughly the same number of new cases in the past week as the week before, according to the director of Africa Centres for Disease Control, John Nkengasong.
Image: Kampala, Uganda, during lockdown amid the coronavirus pandemic
He said that "we hope that trend continues" instead of a rapid exponential crisis.
While early lockdowns slowed the growth of the pandemic across Africa, Mr Nkengasong insisted it "doesn't mean Africa has been spared".
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Supporting that notion, the WHO's Africa chief Matshidiso Moeti said that COVID-19 had made a soft landfall in Africa but "we must not be lulled into complacency".
Cases could increase significantly now that many countries are gradually lifting lockdowns, the WHO said


news--2020-05-23--Coronavirus: Thief steals doctors' parcels as they tend to patients during lockdown

Police have launched an investigation after two doctors had parcels stolen from their doorstep while they tended to patients during lockdown .
Dr Ben Noble was working as a duty doctor at the Woodbrook Medical Centre in Loughborough when a thief stole four packages from his doorstep in Attenborough , East Midlands , police said .
His wife Hannah , who is also a GP , was working from home at the time , but did not realise what was happening because she was on the phone to a patient who was mentally unwell , Nottinghamshire Police added .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident , which happened at around 4.40pm on 4 May .
One of the stolen parcels , which contained a number of drink bottles , was found nearby .
Father-of-two Dr Noble said : `` It 's incredulous that someone would steal parcels from your doorstep and what 's even more galling is that it happened in broad daylight .
`` It 's just so bad that someone could do such a thing during these difficult times . ''
Dr Noble @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the NHS East Midlands Cancer Alliance and won an award last year for an online tool he created to help spot symptoms early .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Inspector Simon Riley , of Nottinghamshire Police , said : `` This is a despicable theft from two NHS key workers .
`` It 's appalling to think that during the COVID-19 crisis some people are still seeking and taking opportunities to commit crime and cause unnecessary stress on people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' If anyone recognises the man in the CCTV image or has any information , they are asked to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 , quoting incident number 734 of 4 May 2020 , or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .

Police have launched an investigation after two doctors had parcels stolen from their doorstep while they tended to patients during lockdown.
Dr Ben Noble was working as a duty doctor at the Woodbrook Medical Centre in Loughborough when a thief stole four packages from his doorstep in Attenborough, East Midlands, police said.
His wife Hannah, who is also a GP, was working from home at the time, but did not realise what was happening because she was on the phone to a patient who was mentally unwell, Nottinghamshire Police added.
The force has released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident, which happened at around 4.40pm on 4 May.
One of the stolen parcels, which contained a number of drink bottles, was found nearby.
Image: Dr Ben Noble is pictured outside his house in Attenborough
Father-of-two Dr Noble said: "It's incredulous that someone would steal parcels from your doorstep and what's even more galling is that it happened in broad daylight.
"It's just so bad that someone could do such a thing during these difficult times."
Dr Noble is also a primary care cancer lead for the NHS East Midlands Cancer Alliance and won an award last year for an online tool he created to help spot symptoms early.
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Inspector Simon Riley, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "This is a despicable theft from two NHS key workers.
"It's appalling to think that during the COVID-19 crisis some people are still seeking and taking opportunities to commit crime and cause unnecessary stress on people in what is already a difficult time."
If anyone recognises the man in the CCTV image or has any information, they are asked to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 734 of 4 May 2020, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


news--2020-05-23--Hana Kimura: Pro wrestler and star of Netflix's The Terrace dies aged 22

Japanese pro wrestler Hana Kimura , who starred in Netflix reality show The Terrace , has died at the age of 22 .
Stardom Wrestling , who Kimura was signed with , confirmed the news in a statement on Twitter .
`` Stardom fans , we are very sorry to report that our Hana Kimura has passed away .
Please be respectful and allow some time for things to process , and keep your thoughts and prayers with her family and friends .
`` We appreciate your support during this difficult time . ''
Reports have suggested that Kimura was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of death has not been confirmed .
Kimura , whose mother Kyoko was also a professional wrestler , began her career in March 2016 and scooped the title of JWP Junior Championship six months later .
She won the Goddess of Stardom Championship in 2017 after teaming up with fellow pro , Kagetsu .
Two years later she was awarded Stardom 's 2019 Fighting Spirit Award at the Goddess of Stardom Championship .
Earlier this year Kimura joined the cast of Terrace House , a show where six strangers live together under one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month-long break due to coronavirus , however , Netflix Japan has paused plans to release a new episode in response to the news .
Tributes have been paid to Kimura from several pro wrestlers and wrestling groups around the world .
Portuguese star Raquel Lourenço , known by her stage name Killer Kelly , wrote on Twitter : `` I wish this was n't true .
I only met Hana Kimura a handful of times , but her smile and happiness were contagious .
`` I have this image of her putting makeup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peaceful and beautiful .
I feel ill inside ... people should be better than this .
Be kind . ''
English pro wrestler Will Ospreay , who currently is signed to the group New Japan Pro-Wrestling , said : `` There are so many nights I would go to [ Tokyo district ] Roppongi & I was joined by one of the most beautiful vibrant women I 've ever met .
`` I would always smile around her & her laugh would just have [ an ] effect on everyone .
I ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Stardom Family .
RIP Hana Kimura . ''
The National Wrestling Alliance , based in the US , wrote on Twitter : `` The National Wrestling Alliance sends its deepest condolences on the passing of Stardom star Hana Kimura . ''
Florida-based group , All Elite Wrestling , said : `` AEW and the wrestling community mourn the passing of Hana Kimura .
May she Rest In Peace , and our thoughts are with her family , her friends , and her fans . ''
: : Anyone feeling emotionally distressed can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or email jo @ samaritans.org in the UK .
In the US , call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 ( 800 ) 273-TALK .

Japanese pro wrestler Hana Kimura, who starred in Netflix reality show The Terrace, has died at the age of 22.
Stardom Wrestling, who Kimura was signed with, confirmed the news in a statement on Twitter.
"Stardom fans, we are very sorry to report that our Hana Kimura has passed away. Please be respectful and allow some time for things to process, and keep your thoughts and prayers with her family and friends.
Image: She had been a professional wrestler since 2016
"We appreciate your support during this difficult time."
Reports have suggested that Kimura was the victim of cyber-bullying. The cause of death has not been confirmed.
Kimura, whose mother Kyoko was also a professional wrestler, began her career in March 2016 and scooped the title of JWP Junior Championship six months later.
She won the Goddess of Stardom Championship in 2017 after teaming up with fellow pro, Kagetsu. Two years later she was awarded Stardom's 2019 Fighting Spirit Award at the Goddess of Stardom Championship.
Earlier this year Kimura joined the cast of Terrace House, a show where six strangers live together under one roof.
It has restarted after a month-long break due to coronavirus, however, Netflix Japan has paused plans to release a new episode in response to the news.
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Tributes have been paid to Kimura from several pro wrestlers and wrestling groups around the world.
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Portuguese star Raquel Lourenço, known by her stage name Killer Kelly, wrote on Twitter: "I wish this wasn't true. I only met Hana Kimura a handful of times, but her smile and happiness were contagious.
"I have this image of her putting makeup on the ResGal and just looking so peaceful and beautiful. I feel ill inside... people should be better than this. Be kind."
English pro wrestler Will Ospreay, who currently is signed to the group New Japan Pro-Wrestling, said: "There are so many nights I would go to [Tokyo district] Roppongi & I was joined by one of the most beautiful vibrant women I've ever met.
"I would always smile around her & her laugh would just have [an] effect on everyone. I can't express how heartbroken I am for the Stardom Family. RIP Hana Kimura."
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
The National Wrestling Alliance, based in the US, wrote on Twitter: "The National Wrestling Alliance sends its deepest condolences on the passing of Stardom star Hana Kimura."
Florida-based group, All Elite Wrestling, said: "AEW and the wrestling community mourn the passing of Hana Kimura. May she Rest In Peace, and our thoughts are with her family, her friends, and her fans."
:: Anyone feeling emotionally distressed can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.


news--2020-04-26--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson arrives at Downing Street after COVID-19 recovery

Boris Johnson has now arrived back at Number 10 after spending several weeks recovering from coronavirus , a Downing Street source has told Sky News .
The prime minister is expected to return to work on Monday and is said to be `` raring to go '' after recovering from a COVID-19 infection that resulted in him spending three nights in intensive care .
He has n't been seen in public since posting a video on Twitter on 12 April in which he thanked staff at St Thomas ' Hospital in London for saving his life .
Mr Johnson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be diagnosed with coronavirus , spent a week in hospital fighting off the illness , where he was treated with oxygen and given round-the-clock care .
He then went to his countryside residence of Chequers to continue his recovery .
Sky 's chief political correspondent Jon Craig said the prime minister had arrived by the back entrance in a `` low key '' return without motorcycle outriders to Downing Street .
He said Mr Johnson would chair the government 's morning coronavirus meeting tomorrow , before a likely meeting with the health secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pledge to carry out 100,000 daily virus tests .
`` Another decision Mr Johnson and his inner circle will have to take is will he front the daily news conference on Monday , '' added Craig .
Earlier on Sunday , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab , who has been deputising in Mr Johnson 's absence , told Sky News the prime minister was `` raring to go '' .
He said : `` He 's taken the time and taken the doctors ' advice to rebuild his strength .
`` I 've spoken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 've made sure he 's abreast of everything that 's been going on . ''
Mr Johnson 's return comes as the government faces increasing demand to reveal its exit strategy from the lockdown , with Labour leader Keir Starmer saying `` honest conversations '' with the public were necessary .
Senior Conservative donors have also pressured the government to relax lockdown measures amid concerns about the damage it is doing to the economy .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steps would need to be `` sure-footed '' and that this was why the government was treading `` very cautiously '' .
He also said it was `` not responsible '' to disclose what an easing of restrictions could look like while the country is in a `` delicate and dangerous '' stage of the outbreak .
He added : `` We are sticking to the scientific advice with the social-distancing measures at this time , whilst doing all the homework to make sure that we are prepared in due course for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later echoed by NHS England medical director Professor Stephen Powis , who acknowledged a `` definite trend in reduced number of people in hospitals '' , but warned this could reverse if restrictions are eased too quickly .
`` My fear is that those curves wo n't continue to be on a downward trend , but will start to go on an upward trend , '' he told the daily Downing Street press conference .
`` We are not at a point where any of us can be absolutely confident that that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Meanwhile , a scientist advising the government on its response to the outbreak - which has killed at least 20,732 in the UK - has warned that life `` can not go completely back to normal '' after lockdown .
Professor Neil Ferguson , from Imperial College London , said social distancing measures would likely need to remain in place until a vaccine is developed - something Mr Raab has said will not happen until at least next year .
His team are currently working on a model for easing restrictions as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more details in the coming days .

Boris Johnson has now arrived back at Number 10 after spending several weeks recovering from coronavirus, a Downing Street source has told Sky News.
The prime minister is expected to return to work on Monday and is said to be "raring to go" after recovering from a COVID-19 infection that resulted in him spending three nights in intensive care.
He hasn't been seen in public since posting a video on Twitter on 12 April in which he thanked staff at St Thomas' Hospital in London for saving his life.
Mr Johnson, who is the only world leader to be diagnosed with coronavirus, spent a week in hospital fighting off the illness, where he was treated with oxygen and given round-the-clock care.
He then went to his countryside residence of Chequers to continue his recovery.
Sky's chief political correspondent Jon Craig said the prime minister had arrived by the back entrance in a "low key" return without motorcycle outriders to Downing Street.
He said Mr Johnson would chair the government's morning coronavirus meeting tomorrow, before a likely meeting with the health secretary as the clock counts down on a pledge to carry out 100,000 daily virus tests.
"Another decision Mr Johnson and his inner circle will have to take is will he front the daily news conference on Monday," added Craig.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:09 PM: 'It could have gone either way'
Earlier on Sunday, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who has been deputising in Mr Johnson's absence, told Sky News the prime minister was "raring to go".
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He said: "He's taken the time and taken the doctors' advice to rebuild his strength.
"I've spoken to him every day this week - we've made sure he's abreast of everything that's been going on."
Mr Johnson's return comes as the government faces increasing demand to reveal its exit strategy from the lockdown, with Labour leader Keir Starmer saying "honest conversations" with the public were necessary.
Senior Conservative donors have also pressured the government to relax lockdown measures amid concerns about the damage it is doing to the economy.
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But Mr Raab said the next steps would need to be "sure-footed" and that this was why the government was treading "very cautiously".
He also said it was "not responsible" to disclose what an easing of restrictions could look like while the country is in a "delicate and dangerous" stage of the outbreak.
He added: "We are sticking to the scientific advice with the social-distancing measures at this time, whilst doing all the homework to make sure that we are prepared in due course for the next phase."
This sentiment was later echoed by NHS England medical director Professor Stephen Powis, who acknowledged a "definite trend in reduced number of people in hospitals", but warned this could reverse if restrictions are eased too quickly.
"My fear is that those curves won't continue to be on a downward trend, but will start to go on an upward trend," he told the daily Downing Street press conference.
"We are not at a point where any of us can be absolutely confident that that's not going to be the case."
Meanwhile, a scientist advising the government on its response to the outbreak - which has killed at least 20,732 in the UK - has warned that life "cannot go completely back to normal" after lockdown.
Professor Neil Ferguson, from Imperial College London, said social distancing measures would likely need to remain in place until a vaccine is developed - something Mr Raab has said will not happen until at least next year.
His team are currently working on a model for easing restrictions as they stand, and expects to release more details in the coming days.


news--2020-04-26--Coronavirus: Airlines lobby Sunak over prolonged 'cash crisis'

Britain 's airline industry is urging ministers to further extend government emergency wage subsidies , warning that it will face a continuing `` cash crisis '' as demand takes months to recover from the COVID-19 crisis .
Sky News has seen a letter sent on Friday by Tim Alderslade , chief executive of Airlines UK , asking the Treasury to provide certainty for its members about the ongoing operation of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme .
In it , Mr Alderslade told Rishi Sunak , the chancellor , that if the scheme is `` withdrawn prematurely , carriers experiencing only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ renewed cash crisis '' .
`` We believe that the scheme will need to be extended beyond June , and that consideration should be given to measures - including a 'tapering ' of the scheme or a review on a sectoral basis - to avoid aviation facing a cliff-edge post-June , whilst services are scaled-up . ''
The Airlines UK letter was sent amid ongoing deliberations by the Treasury about the provision of taxpayer support to the aviation industry .
Carriers have already called for additional help from the government on regulatory and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has said that the government will only consider bailing out individual carriers `` as a last resort '' , dealing a blow to airlines including Virgin Atlantic Airways .
The chancellor has , however , already extended the job retention scheme by one month and signalled his openness to doing so again .
Industries such as aviation are particularly keen for it to be in place for as long as possible , because the uncoordinated international lifting of lockdown measures is likely to play a part in delaying the recovery of international air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the International Air Transport Association ] has shown that a substantial number of travellers are likely to delay a return to travel , and a majority could wait until they have greater certainty around their own personal finances , '' Mr Alderslade wrote .
`` There is early evidence of this trend in the Chinese and Australian markets , where domestic demand has continued to deteriorate or remain at substantially reduced levels even after the rate of new infections has fallen significantly . ''
The comments in Mr Alderslade 's letter echo those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gatwick Airport , who said last week that it could take four years for passenger numbers to return to pre-coronavirus levels .
Airlines UK also told Mr Sunak that it welcomed the establishment of a 'Restart and Recovery ' unit within the Department for Transport .
`` This work will also examine economic and policy measures to support the sector , and we remain clear that further such measures will undoubtedly be required to get UK aviation back on a competitive footing and to maintain its critical role in the UK economy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world , '' Mr Alderslade wrote .

Britain's airline industry is urging ministers to further extend government emergency wage subsidies, warning that it will face a continuing "cash crisis" as demand takes months to recover from the COVID-19 crisis.
Sky News has seen a letter sent on Friday by Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, asking the Treasury to provide certainty for its members about the ongoing operation of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
In it, Mr Alderslade told Rishi Sunak, the chancellor, that if the scheme is "withdrawn prematurely, carriers experiencing only a tentative revenue recovery will face a renewed cash crisis".
"We believe that the scheme will need to be extended beyond June, and that consideration should be given to measures - including a 'tapering' of the scheme or a review on a sectoral basis - to avoid aviation facing a cliff-edge post-June, whilst services are scaled-up."
The Airlines UK letter was sent amid ongoing deliberations by the Treasury about the provision of taxpayer support to the aviation industry.
Carriers have already called for additional help from the government on regulatory and air traffic control charges.
Mr Sunak has said that the government will only consider bailing out individual carriers "as a last resort", dealing a blow to airlines including Virgin Atlantic Airways.
The chancellor has, however, already extended the job retention scheme by one month and signalled his openness to doing so again.
Industries such as aviation are particularly keen for it to be in place for as long as possible, because the uncoordinated international lifting of lockdown measures is likely to play a part in delaying the recovery of international air travel.
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"Research by IATA [the International Air Transport Association] has shown that a substantial number of travellers are likely to delay a return to travel, and a majority could wait until they have greater certainty around their own personal finances," Mr Alderslade wrote.
"There is early evidence of this trend in the Chinese and Australian markets, where domestic demand has continued to deteriorate or remain at substantially reduced levels even after the rate of new infections has fallen significantly."
The comments in Mr Alderslade's letter echo those of Stewart Wingate, the boss of Gatwick Airport, who said last week that it could take four years for passenger numbers to return to pre-coronavirus levels.
Airlines UK also told Mr Sunak that it welcomed the establishment of a 'Restart and Recovery' unit within the Department for Transport.
"This work will also examine economic and policy measures to support the sector, and we remain clear that further such measures will undoubtedly be required to get UK aviation back on a competitive footing and to maintain its critical role in the UK economy and as the third-largest aviation market in the world," Mr Alderslade wrote.


news--2020-04-26--Coronavirus: Artist Saype unveils huge Alpine piece inspired by COVID-19 crisis

An artist known for creating huge pieces on grass has unveiled a project in the Swiss Alps inspired by the @ @ @ @ @ , better known as French artist Saype , has painted images in cities across the @ @ @ @ @ Buenos Aires and Liverpool .
His new work is entitled Beyond Crisis and shows a @ @ @ @ @ horizon with a chain of stick figures holding hands .
`` The fresco of more @ @ @ @ @ the building of a world with more solidarity and more humanity , '' Saype said @ @ @ @ @ artwork was created on a clearing near the resort town of Leysin , in western @ @ @ @ @ derived from coal and chalk .
Saype often paints children or close-ups of people 's @ @ @ @ @ forearms and like his previous pieces Beyond Crisis is biodegradable and temporary .

An artist known for creating huge pieces on grass has unveiled a project in the Swiss Alps inspired by the coronavirus crisis.
Guillaume Legros, better known as French artist Saype, has painted images in cities across the world, including Paris, Buenos Aires and Liverpool.
His new work is entitled Beyond Crisis and shows a girl looking out towards the horizon with a chain of stick figures holding hands.
Image: Guillaume Legros, aka Saype, painted the piece using spray paint derived from coal and chalk
Image: Beyond Crisis covers over 3,000 square metres
"The fresco of more than 3,000 square metres evokes the building of a world with more solidarity and more humanity," Saype said in a statement.
The artwork was created on a clearing near the resort town of Leysin, in western Switzerland, using spray paint derived from coal and chalk.
Image: Saype's latest work is in western Switzerland
Saype often paints children or close-ups of people's hands gripping each other's forearms and like his previous pieces Beyond Crisis is biodegradable and temporary.


news--2020-04-25--Coronavirus: Millions in India facing hunger during COVID-19 lockdown measures

Millions of Indians who have been without work for weeks are facing hunger as the country battles the coronavirus outbreak .
The most vulnerable are daily wage earners , contract workers and migrant labourers who have been without work and earnings since the country was shut down on 25 March .
It comes as World Food Programme analysis suggests an additional 130 million people around the world `` could be pushed to the brink of starvation by the end of 2020 '' as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic .
David Beasley , the executive director of the World Food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council that the world is `` on the brink of a hunger pandemic '' that could lead to `` multiple famines of biblical proportions '' .
Hundreds of men , women and their children have been waiting in the blazing sun for a precious meal in Gurgaon on the outskirts of the Indian national capital Delhi .
Mujibur , a labourer , is there to pick up a hot meal for his wife Mariam who gave birth to a baby boy during the shutdown .
It is past midday and this is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
She said : `` It 's a big problem for me , there is no food , no money and I have a baby , I am very worried about him .
Whatever is given to us that 's all I eat the whole day . ''
The biggest problem they all face is the availability of food and rations .
For weeks they have been without any work and most have exhausted their savings .
The shutdown has stripped them of everything including their dignity .
Hundreds here live in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in tin sheds and huts made of plastic sheets and bamboo .
They are labourers , masons , drivers , maids , cleaners , guards and vegetable sellers that cater to thousands of homes and high-rise apartments that dot this cyber city .
Lalla Bai , a daily wage labourer , left her two children in the village to come here to earn a living .
Desperate to go back home , she said : `` We are angry with the government , they are starving us .
Neither are they killing us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are stuck in the middle .
I can not go back to my children . ''
She insists we come inside her bamboo and plastic sheeting hut .
It 's stifling as the temperature is already touching 40C ( 104F ) and this is just the beginning of the long summer .
Social distancing is a privilege these people can not afford .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Jamshed lives with his wife and four children in a room @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tin sheeting .
A daily wage earner , he came to the city three months ago and regrets his decision .
`` Food is the biggest problem and since there is no work I have no money to buy anything , '' he said .
Tanuja , a 36-year-old cleaner , broke down as she said : `` This disease has crushed us .
I have no work , no food , no money to pay rent .
My children are in the village and I have to send them money .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ common washing areas coupled with unhygienic living conditions and a lack of personal protection means the pandemic would ravage this cluster .
The informal sector of daily wage earners , contract workers and migrant labourers form almost 81 % of the country 's working population .
The government has set up thousands of relief camps where free food and shelter is provided to the poor and migrants who are stuck .
But with the overwhelming numbers , not everyone can be reached all the time .
Two days into the lockdown , Vishal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stopped in his car by people asking for food .
He said they were `` not beggars , but skilled and unskilled workers and they just wanted food '' .
Mr Anand pooled his finances and with a group of his friends and volunteers started a kitchen making thousands of hot meals .
With limited resources the idea was to provide the most vulnerable with food for only for a few days until the administration stepped up .
But with the overwhelming numbers of hungry people they were unable to stop .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens the first thing I believe in is that we need to help other citizens .
The most important thing we have to do is to secure them with basic food and rations for the next 90 days .
We really do n't know when the lockdown will be over and when they will get back to their respective jobs . ''
With the help of some charities , donations and the administration , he and his friends are making life a bit easier for the thousands of the forgotten poor .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , invisible majority , many desperate to get back home to their families .
Geeta , from Panna in Madhya Pradesh , said : `` Our children are dying of hunger at home and we here , we have nothing here .
We want to go back .
Our children will die there and we will die here . ''

Millions of Indians who have been without work for weeks are facing hunger as the country battles the coronavirus outbreak.
The most vulnerable are daily wage earners, contract workers and migrant labourers who have been without work and earnings since the country was shut down on 25 March.
It comes as World Food Programme analysis suggests an additional 130 million people around the world "could be pushed to the brink of starvation by the end of 2020" as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
David Beasley, the executive director of the World Food Programme, has warned the UN Security Council that the world is "on the brink of a hunger pandemic" that could lead to "multiple famines of biblical proportions".
Hundreds of men, women and their children have been waiting in the blazing sun for a precious meal in Gurgaon on the outskirts of the Indian national capital Delhi.
Image: Families are struggling for food in Gurgaon on the outskirts of Delhi
Mujibur, a labourer, is there to pick up a hot meal for his wife Mariam who gave birth to a baby boy during the shutdown.
It is past midday and this is the first meal she will eat until dinner time.
She said: "It's a big problem for me, there is no food, no money and I have a baby, I am very worried about him. Whatever is given to us that's all I eat the whole day."
The biggest problem they all face is the availability of food and rations.
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For weeks they have been without any work and most have exhausted their savings.
The shutdown has stripped them of everything including their dignity.
Hundreds here live in clusters of one-room homes, some even in tin sheds and huts made of plastic sheets and bamboo.
They are labourers, masons, drivers, maids, cleaners, guards and vegetable sellers that cater to thousands of homes and high-rise apartments that dot this cyber city.
Image: Mariam, left, and Mujibur with their child who was born during the lockdown
Image: Mariam said she has been worried about her baby's health
Lalla Bai, a daily wage labourer, left her two children in the village to come here to earn a living.
Desperate to go back home, she said: "We are angry with the government, they are starving us. Neither are they killing us nor are they allowing us to live. We are stuck in the middle. I cannot go back to my children."
She insists we come inside her bamboo and plastic sheeting hut.
It's stifling as the temperature is already touching 40C (104F) and this is just the beginning of the long summer.
Social distancing is a privilege these people cannot afford.
Image: Lalla Bai has said she is angry with the government over the lockdown measures
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Jamshed lives with his wife and four children in a room with its roof and three sides made of tin sheeting.
A daily wage earner, he came to the city three months ago and regrets his decision.
"Food is the biggest problem and since there is no work I have no money to buy anything," he said.
Tanuja, a 36-year-old cleaner, broke down as she said: "This disease has crushed us. I have no work, no food, no money to pay rent. My children are in the village and I have to send them money. What will I do."
The common washing areas coupled with unhygienic living conditions and a lack of personal protection means the pandemic would ravage this cluster.
The informal sector of daily wage earners, contract workers and migrant labourers form almost 81% of the country's working population.
Image: Jamshed, pictured her with his family, has no money to buy food during the shutdown
Image: Tanuja, a cleaner, said the disease has 'crushed us' as she has no food
The government has set up thousands of relief camps where free food and shelter is provided to the poor and migrants who are stuck.
But with the overwhelming numbers, not everyone can be reached all the time.
Two days into the lockdown, Vishal Anand, a restaurant owner, was stopped in his car by people asking for food.
He said they were "not beggars, but skilled and unskilled workers and they just wanted food".
Mr Anand pooled his finances and with a group of his friends and volunteers started a kitchen making thousands of hot meals.
With limited resources the idea was to provide the most vulnerable with food for only for a few days until the administration stepped up.
But with the overwhelming numbers of hungry people they were unable to stop.
Image: Restaurant owner Vishal Anand has started a kitchen making thousands of hot meals
Mr Anand told Sky News: "As citizens the first thing I believe in is that we need to help other citizens. The most important thing we have to do is to secure them with basic food and rations for the next 90 days. We really don't know when the lockdown will be over and when they will get back to their respective jobs."
With the help of some charities, donations and the administration, he and his friends are making life a bit easier for the thousands of the forgotten poor.
It's an uncertain future for this vast, invisible majority, many desperate to get back home to their families.
Geeta, from Panna in Madhya Pradesh, said: "Our children are dying of hunger at home and we here, we have nothing here. We want to go back. Our children will die there and we will die here."


news--2020-04-26--Coronavirus: Councils need 'rock solid' financial support as homelessness rises during outbreak

Council leaders have told Sky News they will need `` rock solid '' financial support from the government if they 're to deal with the social challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
Charities have said they are already starting to see a rise in homelessness among some of the most vulnerable in society .
In a churchyard , tucked away from the view of surrounding houses , Ashley Khan and Katie Bland are packing up their tent and rucksacks .
It 's 8am and although the sun is shining it feels cold .
Ms Bland , 26 , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got , these clothes what I 'm wearing , a few pairs of socks , underwear , wash bits , headphones .
The couple have been living in a tent in Bolton , Greater Manchester , for the past few weeks , mainly camping in woods well away from the city centre .
But last night it was already late by the time they were looking to bed down , so they found a churchyard in a more residential area .
Mr Khan , 37 , said : `` The closer to town @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets .
`` There are more drunks about .
We 're not junkies , we 're not drunks .
So we try and stay away . ''
Ms Bland added : `` But it 's cold , especially at 4am , really cold . ''
Mr Khan is a self-employed painter and decorator .
Since lockdown , he 's been unable to find much work .
When the couple could n't pay their weekly rent , their landlord evicted them .
Although the government put laws in place to prevent eviction during the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bland were living in shared accommodation , without a tenancy agreement and paying their rent in cash .
Although they have friends in the area , Mr Khan said `` you do n't like to ask , ask , ask all the time , so we decided to camp '' .
He continued : `` It 's hard when you 've been living a normal life , with a flat and designer clothes , to find yourself in this position - that 's a bit bad for me to get my head around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worked for , earned and now suddenly all our stuff is in storage .
`` And this is all that 's left . ''
The couple have both been homeless before , but were getting back on their feet .
But trying to rebuild , again , during this lockdown , feels incredibly challenging .
And it 's taken its toll on them , especially Ms Bland , who lives with a mental health condition .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young .
`` I like to look good , have nice things .
I know they are only material things but you know , just getting my hair done , things like that is how I make myself feel good . ''
Mr Khan said : `` Yeah , when you 've not had a warm wash for a while , it 's like you can feel your skin .
You do n't feel clean .
It 's not nice . ''
Since our interview , Bolton Council have found the couple emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says to help people like them , both now and in the future , councils will need `` rock solid '' support from central government .
It told Sky News : `` Councils are leading local efforts to support people at risk of homelessness during the outbreak .
`` To get through this crisis , councils need the government 's commitment that they will get all the resources they need to cope with ... this monumental challenge . ''
And there are fears that this challenge will get harder .
Billa Ahmed runs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helps feed vulnerable and homeless people in Bolton and surrounding areas .
He said the problem is not going to end once the lockdown is over - if anything , it 'll get worse .
Mr Ahmed said : `` There is so much uncertainty .
`` In four , five months when everything 's lifted and things open up - that 's actually when businesses are going to go under and lay people off .
`` And that 's when we 're going to see people really start to lose their homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Council leaders have told Sky News they will need "rock solid" financial support from the government if they're to deal with the social challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Charities have said they are already starting to see a rise in homelessness among some of the most vulnerable in society.
In a churchyard, tucked away from the view of surrounding houses, Ashley Khan and Katie Bland are packing up their tent and rucksacks.
It's 8am and although the sun is shining it feels cold.
Ms Bland, 26, said: "This is all I've got, these clothes what I'm wearing, a few pairs of socks, underwear, wash bits, headphones.
"Everything is a bit damp."
Image: Katie Bland and her partner were evicted when they couldn't pay their rent
Image: Ashley Khan, right, and Katie Bland, left, have been living in a tent in Bolton
The couple have been living in a tent in Bolton, Greater Manchester, for the past few weeks, mainly camping in woods well away from the city centre.
But last night it was already late by the time they were looking to bed down, so they found a churchyard in a more residential area.
Mr Khan, 37, said: "The closer to town you get, the more dangerous it gets.
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"There are more drunks about. We're not junkies, we're not drunks. So we try and stay away."
Ms Bland added: "But it's cold, especially at 4am, really cold."
Mr Khan is a self-employed painter and decorator. Since lockdown, he's been unable to find much work.
When the couple couldn't pay their weekly rent, their landlord evicted them.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 'A tragic and terrible milestone'
Although the government put laws in place to prevent eviction during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Khan and Ms Bland were living in shared accommodation, without a tenancy agreement and paying their rent in cash.
Although they have friends in the area, Mr Khan said "you don't like to ask, ask, ask all the time, so we decided to camp".
He continued: "It's hard when you've been living a normal life, with a flat and designer clothes, to find yourself in this position - that's a bit bad for me to get my head around.
"And all that's hard worked for, earned and now suddenly all our stuff is in storage.
"And this is all that's left."
The couple have both been homeless before, but were getting back on their feet.
But trying to rebuild, again, during this lockdown, feels incredibly challenging.
And it's taken its toll on them, especially Ms Bland, who lives with a mental health condition.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
She said: "I'm only young.
"I like to look good, have nice things. I know they are only material things but you know, just getting my hair done, things like that is how I make myself feel good."
Mr Khan said: "Yeah, when you've not had a warm wash for a while, it's like you can feel your skin. You don't feel clean. It's not nice."
Since our interview, Bolton Council have found the couple emergency accommodation.
But the Local Government Association says to help people like them, both now and in the future, councils will need "rock solid" support from central government.
It told Sky News: "Councils are leading local efforts to support people at risk of homelessness during the outbreak.
"To get through this crisis, councils need the government's commitment that they will get all the resources they need to cope with... this monumental challenge."
Image: Billa Ahmed says people are going to lose their homes because of the coronavirus outbreak
And there are fears that this challenge will get harder.
Billa Ahmed runs Homeless Aid UK, an organisation that helps feed vulnerable and homeless people in Bolton and surrounding areas.
He said the problem is not going to end once the lockdown is over - if anything, it'll get worse.
Mr Ahmed said: "There is so much uncertainty.
"In four, five months when everything's lifted and things open up - that's actually when businesses are going to go under and lay people off.
"And that's when we're going to see people really start to lose their homes, and end up on the streets.
"It's frightening."


news--2020-03-05--Starling swoops with deal to sponsor Team GB

The digital lender Starling is to sponsor Britain 's Olympic teams , marking a new phase in its efforts to become one of the country 's most recognisable banking brands .
Sky News has learnt that Starling , which counts a former Team GB archer among its senior executives , has struck a deal to become the British Olympic Association 's banking partner for the Tokyo Olympics later this year .
The alliance comes amid speculation about the possible postponement of this summer 's Games following the outbreak of the coronavirus .
Japan 's Olympics minister suggested this week that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organising committee , although the International Olympic Committee responded by saying that it was `` very confident '' that they would take place as planned .
Starling 's association with Team GB , which recorded its biggest overseas medal haul at the Rio Olympics in 2016 , will provide a platform for the banking app to boost its profile .
Founded in 2014 by banking veteran Anne Boden , the company has raised hundreds of millions of pounds from blue-chip investors to fuel its growth .
Starling now employs roughly 800 people , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.3 million people - the vast majority of whom are consumers .
As part of its association with Team GB , Starling plans to offer each athlete an account with £100 in credit .
The bank 's chief banking officer , Helen Bierton , represented Team GB in archery at the Athens Games in 2004 .
In response to an enquiry from Sky News , Ms Boden said : `` We feel extremely privileged to be the official Bank of Team GB and will be sharing our excitement with customers in a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months , which we hope will add to the feeling of community that the Olympic Games inspires . ''
The BOA did not have a banking partner in Rio , with its previous sponsor from the sector dating back to London 2012 , when Lloyds Banking Group was Team GB 's partner .
Other existing backers of the BOA include British Airways , the furniture retailer DFS , accountancy firm Deloitte and Purplebricks , the online estate agent .
Starling 's effort to build its brand comes weeks after it raised a further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Merian Chysalis .
Its rival digital banks are also raising funds , the largest example of which has been Revolut 's $ 500m investment led by Technology Crossover Ventures , an early backer of Netflix and Spotify .
Others , including Monzo , are also in the process of raising money at lofty valuations .

The digital lender Starling is to sponsor Britain's Olympic teams, marking a new phase in its efforts to become one of the country's most recognisable banking brands.
Sky News has learnt that Starling, which counts a former Team GB archer among its senior executives, has struck a deal to become the British Olympic Association's banking partner for the Tokyo Olympics later this year.
The alliance comes amid speculation about the possible postponement of this summer's Games following the outbreak of the coronavirus.
Japan's Olympics minister suggested this week that a delay was an option for the organising committee, although the International Olympic Committee responded by saying that it was "very confident" that they would take place as planned.
Starling's association with Team GB, which recorded its biggest overseas medal haul at the Rio Olympics in 2016, will provide a platform for the banking app to boost its profile.
Founded in 2014 by banking veteran Anne Boden, the company has raised hundreds of millions of pounds from blue-chip investors to fuel its growth.
Starling now employs roughly 800 people, and has amassed a customer base of 1.3 million people - the vast majority of whom are consumers.
As part of its association with Team GB, Starling plans to offer each athlete an account with £100 in credit.
The bank's chief banking officer, Helen Bierton, represented Team GB in archery at the Athens Games in 2004.
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In response to an enquiry from Sky News, Ms Boden said: "We feel extremely privileged to be the official Bank of Team GB and will be sharing our excitement with customers in a number of creative ways over the next few months, which we hope will add to the feeling of community that the Olympic Games inspires."
The BOA did not have a banking partner in Rio, with its previous sponsor from the sector dating back to London 2012, when Lloyds Banking Group was Team GB's partner.
Other existing backers of the BOA include British Airways, the furniture retailer DFS, accountancy firm Deloitte and Purplebricks, the online estate agent.
Starling's effort to build its brand comes weeks after it raised a further £60m funding round from investors led by Merian Chysalis.
Its rival digital banks are also raising funds, the largest example of which has been Revolut's $500m investment led by Technology Crossover Ventures, an early backer of Netflix and Spotify.
Others, including Monzo, are also in the process of raising money at lofty valuations.


news--2020-03-05--Flybe collapse: Urgent effort to reopen regional routes

Ministers are working urgently with airlines to try to reopen key regional routes following the collapse of Flybe .
The embattled airline blamed the impact of the coronavirus on flight bookings as it fell into administration overnight , putting 2,400 jobs at risk .
Its failure will leave a huge hole in the schedules of many small airports - some of whom rely almost entirely on Flybe - while the loss of routes threatens to hamper the government 's ambition to `` level up '' UK regions .
Aviation minister Kelly Tolhurst told MPs that the government `` stands ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the collapse .
`` We recognise the impact that this will have on UK airports particularly those which have large-scale Flybe operations , '' she said .
`` We are urgently working with industry to identify opportunities to fill routes . ''
The comments were echoed by a Downing Street spokesman .
He added that transport ministers were in `` close contact with the impacted airports , local authorities and the CAA [ Civil Aviation Authority ] to help understand the impacts on their businesses and local jobs so we can look at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Scotland 's Loganair , another regional airline , has already committed to maintaining 16 Flybe routes .
Meanwhile , Belfast City airport said it was in talks with multiple airlines to fill the routes vacated by Flybe .
Pilots ' airline Balpa said it had contacted administrators at EY to discuss which parts of the airline could be saved , adding that the airline operated routes which were `` not only economically and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But it also accused the government and Flybe 's owners of `` betrayal and broken promises '' .
The GMB union warned that , in addition to the airline 's staff , the collapse threatened 1,400 jobs in the supply chain .
Flybe crew were in tears after the carrier 's failure .
Chief executive Mark Anderson had emailed them hours before the official announcement to express his `` deep feeling of sorrow '' - and pointing to the impact of the coronavirus .
Flybe had previously come close to going under earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government and the airline 's owners resulted in a last-ditch reprieve .
But since then , disagreements over the terms of a £100m taxpayer loan have cast a renewed shadow over its prospects .
A slide in bookings caused by the coronavirus outbreak was blamed for delivering a final blow from which it could not recover .
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said : `` We really tried to do everything we could back at the turn of the year but unfortunately though , with the situation that 's developed with coronavirus , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to survive . ''
Flybe was the largest independent regional airline in Europe , carrying about eight million passengers a year between 81 airports in the UK and Europe .
It had operated , under various guises , for more than 40 years .
The airline was owned by Connect Airways , a consortium made up of US hedge fund Cyrus Capital , Virgin Atlantic and infrastructure group Stobart .
Stobart said in an update to investors hours after the collapse that Flybe had `` shown promising signs of a turnaround '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts of all , not least the Flybe people , the impact of COVID-19 on Flybe 's trading means that the consortium can no longer commit to continued financial support , '' the group said .
Stobart said that over the past 14 months , Connect had invested more than £135m to keep the airline flying , including £25m of the £30m committed as part of its most recent rescue deal in January .
Flybe is said to have requested government support in recent days , to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the company had already asked for a state loan , which appeared to have been rejected .
Are you a FlyBe staff member or customer ?
Get in touch to tell your story :

Ministers are working urgently with airlines to try to reopen key regional routes following the collapse of Flybe.
The embattled airline blamed the impact of the coronavirus on flight bookings as it fell into administration overnight, putting 2,400 jobs at risk.
Its failure will leave a huge hole in the schedules of many small airports - some of whom rely almost entirely on Flybe - while the loss of routes threatens to hamper the government's ambition to "level up" UK regions.
Aviation minister Kelly Tolhurst told MPs that the government "stands ready" to support regional airports affected by the collapse.
"We recognise the impact that this will have on UK airports particularly those which have large-scale Flybe operations," she said.
"We are urgently working with industry to identify opportunities to fill routes."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Flybe crew in tears over job losses
The comments were echoed by a Downing Street spokesman.
He added that transport ministers were in "close contact with the impacted airports, local authorities and the CAA [Civil Aviation Authority] to help understand the impacts on their businesses and local jobs so we can look at how best to support them".
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Scotland's Loganair, another regional airline, has already committed to maintaining 16 Flybe routes.
Meanwhile, Belfast City airport said it was in talks with multiple airlines to fill the routes vacated by Flybe.
Pilots' airline Balpa said it had contacted administrators at EY to discuss which parts of the airline could be saved, adding that the airline operated routes which were "not only economically and regionally vital, but profitable".
Image: Flybe's collapse has left a big gap in the schedule of many regional airports
But it also accused the government and Flybe's owners of "betrayal and broken promises".
The GMB union warned that, in addition to the airline's staff, the collapse threatened 1,400 jobs in the supply chain.
Flybe crew were in tears after the carrier's failure.
Chief executive Mark Anderson had emailed them hours before the official announcement to express his "deep feeling of sorrow" - and pointing to the impact of the coronavirus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:25 Jersey passengers need airline to get home
Flybe had previously come close to going under earlier this year before last-ditch talks between the government and the airline's owners resulted in a last-ditch reprieve.
But since then, disagreements over the terms of a £100m taxpayer loan have cast a renewed shadow over its prospects.
A slide in bookings caused by the coronavirus outbreak was blamed for delivering a final blow from which it could not recover.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: "We really tried to do everything we could back at the turn of the year but unfortunately though, with the situation that's developed with coronavirus, an already weak company just hasn't been able to survive."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 Govt to support Flybe staff
Flybe was the largest independent regional airline in Europe, carrying about eight million passengers a year between 81 airports in the UK and Europe.
It had operated, under various guises, for more than 40 years.
The airline was owned by Connect Airways, a consortium made up of US hedge fund Cyrus Capital, Virgin Atlantic and infrastructure group Stobart.
Stobart said in an update to investors hours after the collapse that Flybe had "shown promising signs of a turnaround".
"However, despite the best efforts of all, not least the Flybe people, the impact of COVID-19 on Flybe's trading means that the consortium can no longer commit to continued financial support," the group said.
Stobart said that over the past 14 months, Connect had invested more than £135m to keep the airline flying, including £25m of the £30m committed as part of its most recent rescue deal in January.
Flybe is said to have requested government support in recent days, to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
But the crisis around the virus came after the company had already asked for a state loan, which appeared to have been rejected.
Are you a FlyBe staff member or customer? Get in touch to tell your story:
:: WhatsApp - 07583 000853
:: Email - news@sky.com
:: 'Your Report' on Sky News apps


news--2020-03-05--Coronavirus: Flybe goes into administration after outbreak struggle

Flybe has gone into administration after struggling to raise funds amid a steep fall in bookings due to coronavirus .
One of Britain 's largest airlines , Flybe entered administration just after 3am on Thursday , with all flights grounded and the business having ceased trading `` with immediate effect '' .
It prompted pilots ' union Balpa to accuse the government and the airline 's owners of `` betrayal and broken promises '' - and questions about how vital regional transport links will be maintained .
The GMB union warned that , in addition to Flybe 's 2,400 staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the supply chain and put the future of regional airports at risk .
Flybe had already come close to going under earlier this year - before last-ditch talks between the government and its owners secured a reprieve for the embattled carrier .
But since then , disagreements over the terms of a £100m taxpayer loan have cast a renewed shadow over its prospects - and a slide in bookings caused by the coronavirus outbreak was blamed for delivering a final blow from which it could not recover .
Hours before the official announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anderson emailed the airline 's staff to say it was `` shortly being put into administration '' - pointing to the impact of the outbreak .
Flybe was the largest independent airline in Europe , carrying about eight million passengers a year between 81 airports in the UK and Europe .
It had operated , under various guises , for more than 40 years .
Accountancy firm EY has been appointed to handle the administration process .
Alan Hudson , joint administrator , said : `` Despite an agreement with the government to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressures on the travel industry in the last few weeks have further deepened the severity of its financial situation .
`` Flybe had already been impacted by rising fuel costs , currency volatility , and market uncertainty . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Passengers due to fly with the airline have been told to not travel to the airport unless an alternative flight with another airline has been booked .
`` Flybe is unfortunately not able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a message on the airline 's former website said .
Staff on Wednesday 's final flights were said to be in tears ahead of the confirmation they had no jobs to go to a few hours later .
Avanti West Coast said Flybe passengers can travel for free on its trains today to help them reach their destinations .
The rail operator 's free travel offer extends to Flybe staff too .
It 's managing director Phil Whittingham said : `` This is a very difficult time for Flybe staff and passengers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit easier we 're happy to do so . ''
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said the government is `` absolutely gutted , really '' .
`` We really tried to do everything we could back at the turn of the year but unfortunately though , with the situation that 's developed with coronavirus , an already weak company just has n't been able to survive , '' he said .
He said the government has been speaking to regional airports around the UK and working with other airlines to `` try to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as quickly as possible '' after airports expressed concerns they would have few flights left without Flybe .
Mr Shapps said the government has asked for assistance from travel , coach , train and airline companies to help stranded Flybe passengers .
He noted that while the collapse of Thomas Cook last September meant the UK 's biggest ever peacetime repatriation , Flybe 's routes are largely domestic and not many Flybe customers are abroad at this time of year .
Those who are will be given assistance by other airlines , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Connect Airways , a consortium made up of US hedge fund Cyrus Capital , Virgin Atlantic and infrastructure group Stobart .
Stobart said in an update to investors hours after the collapse that Flybe had `` shown promising signs of a turnaround '' despite delays to European Commission clearance to Connect 's takeover of the carrier last year .
`` However , despite the best efforts of all , not least the Flybe people , the impact of COVID-19 on Flybe 's trading means that the consortium can no longer commit to continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stobart said that over the past 14 months , Connect had invested more than £135m to keep the airline flying , including £25m of the £30m committed as part of its most recent rescue deal in January .
In the final hours of Wednesday , Flybe 's website stopped working , just showing an error message which said the link is `` no longer live '' .
Flybe planes at airports including Edinburgh were not being refuelled and engineers were being laid off .
The company had made a renewed plea for ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company 's already fragile situation was made worse by a `` collapse '' in bookings due to coronavirus , one insider said .
Andy McDonald , Labour 's shadow transport secretary , said the collapse was `` disastrous '' for passengers and employees and would cause `` real anxiety '' .
`` Flybe has provided critical connectivity for many locations throughout the country especially where there is currently no realistic transport alternative other than flying , '' he said .
`` The government has to answer how those vital links will be maintained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Strutton , general secretary of the British Airline Pilots Association ( Balpa ) , said the airline 's owners , who took over a year ago , and the government `` connived to walk away '' and accused other airlines of going `` out of their way to push Flybe over the brink '' .
`` Flybe staff will feel disgusted at this betrayal and these broken promises , '' he said .
`` What happened to shareholders ' promises of a bright future as 'Virgin Connect ' ?
What happened to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , national officer for union Unite , said its members `` and the entire staff at Flybe '' will be feeling angry and confused '' about how the airline was allowed to collapse .
He said it was `` outrageous '' the government had not learnt from the collapse of Monarch and Thomas Cook .
Flybe boss Mr Anderson 's letter warning staff added : `` It 's with enormous sadness and a deep feeling of sorrow that I share the upsetting news that Flybe is shortly being put into administration .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no alternative - having failed to find a feasible solution to allow us to keep trading .
`` While our shareholders and the leadership team have worked with the government and key suppliers to try to get the funding and support needed , this has not materialised .
`` The coronavirus has impacted both our shareholders and ourselves and has put additional pressure on an already difficult situation .
`` I am very sorry that we have not been able to secure the funding needed to continue to deliver our turnaround plan .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ been chief executive for eight months , apologised to staff , saying he appreciates `` how distressing this news is and the shock and numbness that you will be feeling '' .
Flybe is said to have requested government support in recent days , to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 .
But the crisis around the virus came after the company had already asked for a state loan , which appeared to have been rejected .
Are you a FlyBe staff member or customer ?
Get in touch to tell your story :

Flybe has gone into administration after struggling to raise funds amid a steep fall in bookings due to coronavirus.
One of Britain's largest airlines, Flybe entered administration just after 3am on Thursday, with all flights grounded and the business having ceased trading "with immediate effect".
It prompted pilots' union Balpa to accuse the government and the airline's owners of "betrayal and broken promises" - and questions about how vital regional transport links will be maintained.
The GMB union warned that, in addition to Flybe's 2,400 staff, the collapse threatened 1,400 jobs in the supply chain and put the future of regional airports at risk.
Flybe had already come close to going under earlier this year - before last-ditch talks between the government and its owners secured a reprieve for the embattled carrier.
But since then, disagreements over the terms of a £100m taxpayer loan have cast a renewed shadow over its prospects - and a slide in bookings caused by the coronavirus outbreak was blamed for delivering a final blow from which it could not recover.
Hours before the official announcement of its collapse, Flybe boss Mark Anderson emailed the airline's staff to say it was "shortly being put into administration" - pointing to the impact of the outbreak.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 Transport Secretary Grant Shapps says the government will help Flybe staff and passengers after the airline collapsed.
Flybe was the largest independent airline in Europe, carrying about eight million passengers a year between 81 airports in the UK and Europe. It had operated, under various guises, for more than 40 years.
Accountancy firm EY has been appointed to handle the administration process.
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Alan Hudson, joint administrator, said: "Despite an agreement with the government to provide assistance to the company, added pressures on the travel industry in the last few weeks have further deepened the severity of its financial situation.
"Flybe had already been impacted by rising fuel costs, currency volatility, and market uncertainty."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Passengers due to fly with the airline have been told to not travel to the airport unless an alternative flight with another airline has been booked.
"Flybe is unfortunately not able to arrange alternative flights for passengers," a message on the airline's former website said.
Staff on Wednesday's final flights were said to be in tears ahead of the confirmation they had no jobs to go to a few hours later.
Avanti West Coast said Flybe passengers can travel for free on its trains today to help them reach their destinations.
The rail operator's free travel offer extends to Flybe staff too.
It's managing director Phil Whittingham said: "This is a very difficult time for Flybe staff and passengers. If we can help make it a bit easier we're happy to do so."
Image: Flybe announced it had gone into administration just after 3am on Thursday
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said the government is "absolutely gutted, really".
"We really tried to do everything we could back at the turn of the year but unfortunately though, with the situation that's developed with coronavirus, an already weak company just hasn't been able to survive," he said.
He said the government has been speaking to regional airports around the UK and working with other airlines to "try to make sure we get those routes filled just as quickly as possible" after airports expressed concerns they would have few flights left without Flybe.
Mr Shapps said the government has asked for assistance from travel, coach, train and airline companies to help stranded Flybe passengers.
He noted that while the collapse of Thomas Cook last September meant the UK's biggest ever peacetime repatriation, Flybe's routes are largely domestic and not many Flybe customers are abroad at this time of year. Those who are will be given assistance by other airlines, he said.
The airline was owned by Connect Airways, a consortium made up of US hedge fund Cyrus Capital, Virgin Atlantic and infrastructure group Stobart.
Stobart said in an update to investors hours after the collapse that Flybe had "shown promising signs of a turnaround" despite delays to European Commission clearance to Connect's takeover of the carrier last year.
"However, despite the best efforts of all, not least the Flybe people, the impact of COVID-19 on Flybe's trading means that the consortium can no longer commit to continued financial support," he said.
Stobart said that over the past 14 months, Connect had invested more than £135m to keep the airline flying, including £25m of the £30m committed as part of its most recent rescue deal in January.
Image: The Flybe website went down a few hours before it went into administration
In the final hours of Wednesday, Flybe's website stopped working, just showing an error message which said the link is "no longer live".
Flybe planes at airports including Edinburgh were not being refuelled and engineers were being laid off.
The company had made a renewed plea for ministers to provide emergency financial support after the company's already fragile situation was made worse by a "collapse" in bookings due to coronavirus, one insider said.
Andy McDonald, Labour's shadow transport secretary, said the collapse was "disastrous" for passengers and employees and would cause "real anxiety".
"Flybe has provided critical connectivity for many locations throughout the country especially where there is currently no realistic transport alternative other than flying," he said.
"The government has to answer how those vital links will be maintained following Flybe's collapse."
Image: About 2,400 staff have been left without jobs
Brian Strutton, general secretary of the British Airline Pilots Association (Balpa), said the airline's owners, who took over a year ago, and the government "connived to walk away" and accused other airlines of going "out of their way to push Flybe over the brink".
"Flybe staff will feel disgusted at this betrayal and these broken promises," he said.
"What happened to shareholders' promises of a bright future as 'Virgin Connect'? What happened to the government rescue deal?"
Oliver Richardson, national officer for union Unite, said its members "and the entire staff at Flybe" will be feeling angry and confused" about how the airline was allowed to collapse.
He said it was "outrageous" the government had not learnt from the collapse of Monarch and Thomas Cook.
Flybe boss Mr Anderson's letter warning staff added: "It's with enormous sadness and a deep feeling of sorrow that I share the upsetting news that Flybe is shortly being put into administration.
"Despite every effort, we now have no alternative - having failed to find a feasible solution to allow us to keep trading.
"While our shareholders and the leadership team have worked with the government and key suppliers to try to get the funding and support needed, this has not materialised.
"The coronavirus has impacted both our shareholders and ourselves and has put additional pressure on an already difficult situation.
"I am very sorry that we have not been able to secure the funding needed to continue to deliver our turnaround plan."
Image: Exeter Airport is Flybe's headquarters
Mr Anderson, who had only been chief executive for eight months, apologised to staff, saying he appreciates "how distressing this news is and the shock and numbness that you will be feeling".
Flybe is said to have requested government support in recent days, to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
But the crisis around the virus came after the company had already asked for a state loan, which appeared to have been rejected.
Are you a FlyBe staff member or customer? Get in touch to tell your story:
:: WhatsApp - 07583 000853
:: Email - news@sky.com
:: 'Your Report' on Sky News apps


news--2020-03-05--Coronavirus: England v Italy Six Nations match and other sports events postponed

England 's Six Nations game against Italy in Rome has been postponed over coronavirus fears .
It was previously thought the 14 March clash could be played behind closed doors after the Italian government ordered all sporting events to be held without fans .
The Women 's Six Nations match between Italy and England in Padua on 15 March is also believed to have been called off .
It follows the previous postponements of the Italy-Scotland and Ireland-Italy games in the tournament .
It comes as the coronavirus outbreak continues to plunge 2020 's sporting calendar into disarray , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ either being delayed or cancelled .
In addition to the rugby , the Strade Blanche men 's and women 's races in Italy which were due to be held in the Tuscan city of Siena , were also called off on Thursday .
Race organiser RCS said in a statement that the two races would be rescheduled .
Meanwhile , FIFA has said it will formally propose postponing matches in the Asian FIFA World Cup 2022 and AFC Asian Cup 2023 qualifiers following discussions with the Asian Football Confederation ( AFC ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a statement : `` For both FIFA and the AFC , the well-being and health of all individuals involved in football matches remains the highest priority , and as such , a formal proposal to postpone upcoming matches in the Asian FIFA World Cup 2022 and AFC Asian Cup 2023 qualifiers will now be shared with the relevant member associations . ''
In England , the Premier League has not changed any fixtures but has scrapped the traditional pre-match handshake between players .
More than 3,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it the worst-hit European country .
On Wednesday , the country 's government announced all schools and universities would be closed until 15 March and 11 towns in northern Italy are on lockdown .
Next week 's Six Nations game is the second involving Italy 's team to be affected by COVID-19 .
This weekend 's rugby match between Ireland and Italy , due to be held in Dublin , had already been called off .
Ireland 's Public Health Emergency team said the fixture would be `` a significant risk because a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelling from what is now an affected region '' .
Former England coach Clive Woodward has urged organisers to call off the tournament .
In a sports column for the Daily Mail , he wrote : `` There are some things much more important than sport and when something like the coronavirus comes along , rugby has to step into line , take advice from the experts and do what is right . ''
It is not yet clear whether the remaining Six Nations clashes are under threat .
: : Listen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The England side have won two and lost one of their games so far and were due to be playing their final match .

England's Six Nations game against Italy in Rome has been postponed over coronavirus fears.
It was previously thought the 14 March clash could be played behind closed doors after the Italian government ordered all sporting events to be held without fans.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:06 What the UK can learn from China and Italy
The Women's Six Nations match between Italy and England in Padua on 15 March is also believed to have been called off. It follows the previous postponements of the Italy-Scotland and Ireland-Italy games in the tournament.
It comes as the coronavirus outbreak continues to plunge 2020's sporting calendar into disarray, with some of the year's biggest events either being delayed or cancelled.
In addition to the rugby, the Strade Blanche men's and women's races in Italy which were due to be held in the Tuscan city of Siena, were also called off on Thursday.
Race organiser RCS said in a statement that the two races would be rescheduled.
Meanwhile, FIFA has said it will formally propose postponing matches in the Asian FIFA World Cup 2022 and AFC Asian Cup 2023 qualifiers following discussions with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
Football's world governing body said in a statement: "For both FIFA and the AFC, the well-being and health of all individuals involved in football matches remains the highest priority, and as such, a formal proposal to postpone upcoming matches in the Asian FIFA World Cup 2022 and AFC Asian Cup 2023 qualifiers will now be shared with the relevant member associations."
In England, the Premier League has not changed any fixtures but has scrapped the traditional pre-match handshake between players.
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More than 3,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Italy and 148 have died, making it the worst-hit European country.
On Wednesday, the country's government announced all schools and universities would be closed until 15 March and 11 towns in northern Italy are on lockdown.
Next week's Six Nations game is the second involving Italy's team to be affected by COVID-19.
This weekend's rugby match between Ireland and Italy, due to be held in Dublin, had already been called off.
Ireland's Public Health Emergency team said the fixture would be "a significant risk because a very large number of people would be travelling from what is now an affected region".
Former England coach Clive Woodward has urged organisers to call off the tournament.
In a sports column for the Daily Mail, he wrote: "There are some things much more important than sport and when something like the coronavirus comes along, rugby has to step into line, take advice from the experts and do what is right."
It is not yet clear whether the remaining Six Nations clashes are under threat.
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The England side have won two and lost one of their games so far and were due to be playing their final match.