news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: '3.5 million jobs at risk' if two-metre rule isn't eased, PM warned

A decision on the future of the two-metre rule will be `` underpinned '' by science , the foreign secretary has said , as Downing Street was warned `` millions of people depend on this decision '' .
Some Conservative MPs - such as Imran Khan - have claimed 3.5 million jobs are at risk if the restrictions are n't eased .
Speaking at the latest coronavirus news briefing , Dominic Raab the restriction is `` something that can be looked at '' as the virus is brought under control .
`` There 's no magic to one or other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels of risk whether it 's at two metres , one-and-a-half metres or one metre , '' he said .
The foreign secretary added : `` We are still going to make sure that all of the policy judgements that we rightly as politicians take and are accountable for are underpinned by the science . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has ordered a `` comprehensive review '' into the measure , which has been in place since March .
Since then , people in the UK have been told to maintain social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ household .
This has meant trying to keep two metres ( 6.5ft ) apart from others when outside , at work and in shops and supermarkets .
Government guidance acknowledges that `` this will not always be possible '' , but adds that the risk of infection increases the closer you are to someone with the virus .
France , Denmark and Singapore are among the nations that have a one-metre rule .
The World Health Organisation also recommends maintaining a distance of `` at least '' one metre .
But the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes to advocating two metres - Canada and Spain also have a two-metre restriction in place .
A Downing Street spokesman said on Monday the review into the restriction would be completed in the `` coming weeks '' .
But a number of Conservative MPs want the findings to be published sooner .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker They argue businesses like pubs and restaurants - which could begin to reopen on 4 July as part of the next phase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prepare .
Supporters of reducing the restriction to one metre say it would allow significantly more businesses , particularly in hospitality , to open their doors once more .
They also argue it would protect thousands of jobs and allow more pupils to go back to school .
Former Conservative minister Greg Clark , who is now chair of the Commons Science and Technology Committee , told MPs it was `` peculiar '' that `` almost all other countries '' have a smaller distance in place .
He said : `` Many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but require face coverings to be worn .
Why is it right for them but wrong for us ? ''
Mr Clark added : `` Millions of people , workers in pubs , cafes and restaurants and in manufacturing industries , as well as children going to school and young adults in colleges and universities , depend on this decision .
`` We 're fortunate in this country in having some of the very best scientists in the world , but so far our outcomes have not always been the very best in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials and scientists should have the confidence , as good science itself does , to rigorously challenge current thinking and to apply lessons from the experience of others . ''
This was echoed by Tobias Ellwood , with the former minister saying `` it 's now time for the government to decide '' .
Fellow Tory MP Gary Sambrook said businesses are `` desperate '' for a reduction `` so that they can survive '' .
Sir John Redwood claimed the scientific evidence was `` mixed and muddled '' , as he called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If we want our hospitality industry to survive in any form , they need to know today so that they can prepare their routes and their tables and their screens and all the rest of it , leaving it until 4 July means many more lost jobs , '' he said .
Labour 's shadow health minister Justin Madders also pushed the government on when the findings of the review would be published .
`` We all want society to reopen but we do need to know the basis from which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will be made by , '' he said .
Richard Burgon , a former shadow minister under Jeremy Corbyn , said the government would be `` putting profits before public safety '' if a one-metre restriction was introduced .
SNP health spokeswoman Dr Philippa Whitford said ministers `` ca n't just wish away the fact that the risk of transmission increases as people get closer and more than doubles from two metres to one '' .

A decision on the future of the two-metre rule will be "underpinned" by science, the foreign secretary has said, as Downing Street was warned "millions of people depend on this decision".
Some Conservative MPs - such as Imran Khan - have claimed 3.5 million jobs are at risk if the restrictions aren't eased.
Speaking at the latest coronavirus news briefing, Dominic Raab the restriction is "something that can be looked at" as the virus is brought under control.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 Sunak announces two-metre rule review
"There's no magic to one or other particular measure, there will be different levels of risk whether it's at two metres, one-and-a-half metres or one metre," he said.
The foreign secretary added: "We are still going to make sure that all of the policy judgements that we rightly as politicians take and are accountable for are underpinned by the science."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has ordered a "comprehensive review" into the measure, which has been in place since March.
Since then, people in the UK have been told to maintain social distancing when around others from outside their own household.
This has meant trying to keep two metres (6.5ft) apart from others when outside, at work and in shops and supermarkets.
Government guidance acknowledges that "this will not always be possible", but adds that the risk of infection increases the closer you are to someone with the virus.
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France, Denmark and Singapore are among the nations that have a one-metre rule.
The World Health Organisation also recommends maintaining a distance of "at least" one metre.
But the UK is not an international outlier when it comes to advocating two metres - Canada and Spain also have a two-metre restriction in place.
A Downing Street spokesman said on Monday the review into the restriction would be completed in the "coming weeks".
But a number of Conservative MPs want the findings to be published sooner.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
They argue businesses like pubs and restaurants - which could begin to reopen on 4 July as part of the next phase of easing lockdown - need time to prepare.
Supporters of reducing the restriction to one metre say it would allow significantly more businesses, particularly in hospitality, to open their doors once more.
They also argue it would protect thousands of jobs and allow more pupils to go back to school.
Former Conservative minister Greg Clark, who is now chair of the Commons Science and Technology Committee, told MPs it was "peculiar" that "almost all other countries" have a smaller distance in place.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 Why does the two-metre rule matter?
He said: "Many of these countries have a shorter distance rule but require face coverings to be worn. Why is it right for them but wrong for us?"
Mr Clark added: "Millions of people, workers in pubs, cafes and restaurants and in manufacturing industries, as well as children going to school and young adults in colleges and universities, depend on this decision.
"We're fortunate in this country in having some of the very best scientists in the world, but so far our outcomes have not always been the very best in the world.
"Therefore ministers, officials and scientists should have the confidence, as good science itself does, to rigorously challenge current thinking and to apply lessons from the experience of others."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 Huge queues as England's shops reopen
This was echoed by Tobias Ellwood, with the former minister saying "it's now time for the government to decide".
Fellow Tory MP Gary Sambrook said businesses are "desperate" for a reduction "so that they can survive".
Sir John Redwood claimed the scientific evidence was "mixed and muddled", as he called for an immediate reduction to one metre.
"If we want our hospitality industry to survive in any form, they need to know today so that they can prepare their routes and their tables and their screens and all the rest of it, leaving it until 4 July means many more lost jobs," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:48 PM: 'People should shop with confidence'
Labour's shadow health minister Justin Madders also pushed the government on when the findings of the review would be published.
"We all want society to reopen but we do need to know the basis from which any changes will be made and when they will be made by," he said.
Richard Burgon, a former shadow minister under Jeremy Corbyn, said the government would be "putting profits before public safety" if a one-metre restriction was introduced.
SNP health spokeswoman Dr Philippa Whitford said ministers "can't just wish away the fact that the risk of transmission increases as people get closer and more than doubles from two metres to one".


news--2020-06-15--Audit firms step up warnings over watchdog’s separation plans

Some of the big four accountants are intensifying their opposition to regulators ’ plans to restructure their British operations , warning that the reforms could threaten future investment in their audit businesses .
Sky News has learnt that the quartet are in the process of responding to a Financial Reporting Council ( FRC ) letter sent last month which informed them that they will be forced to pay partners according to the profits their divisions make on a rolling five-year basis .
The profit-sharing edict forms a central plank of the operational separation blueprint that the FRC has drawn up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the audit firms triggered by a string of prominent failures .
Sources said , however , that at least two of the big four of Deloitte , EY , KPMG and PricewaterhouseCoopers ( PwC ) were writing to the watchdog to highlight continuing concerns about the plans .
They are said to believe that the absence of cross-subsidy would remove a key incentive to invest in improving audit quality by spending substantial sums on new technology .
The outlier among the quartet appears to be KPMG , which has been the hardest-hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scandals at companies such as Ted Baker and the Co-op Bank .
KPMG was also the auditor of Carillion , which collapsed in 2018 , sparking calls for urgent reform of the profession .
The firm said that it backs the principle of operational separation , and that it was `` determined to help shape the future for an audit profession which acts in the public interest , delivers high quality audits that enhance trust and confidence and supports attractive and successful capital markets '' .
It added that it was committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and said it had been the first member of the big four to create a separate board of directors for its audit practice .
`` Operational separation of the UK 's audit firms alone will not address the changes to the corporate landscape demanded by the reviews we have seen over the last two years , '' a KPMG spokesman said .
`` To attain lasting change , this must be part of a broader package of reforms which include clarifying and enhancing the responsibilities of boards , directors and management in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ success or failure of the enterprise . ''
Ministers are expected to introduce legislation this year that will trigger far-reaching changes to the way auditors function .
As part of the FRC 's reform blueprint , it will demand visibility over the accounts of the firms ' audit operations to scrutinise them for possible cross-subsidy .
Its latest move underlines its intention to pursue its reform agenda even as auditors face severe disruption to revenues as a result of the coronavirus crisis .
All of the quartet which dominate the profession have taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , reducing partner payouts and , in some cases , withdrawing job offers during the pandemic .
A spokesman for the regulator said it continued to `` move forward with our project to achieve operational separation of audit practices '' .

Some of the big four accountants are intensifying their opposition to regulators’ plans to restructure their British operations, warning that the reforms could threaten future investment in their audit businesses.
Sky News has learnt that the quartet are in the process of responding to a Financial Reporting Council (FRC) letter sent last month which informed them that they will be forced to pay partners according to the profits their divisions make on a rolling five-year basis.
The profit-sharing edict forms a central plank of the operational separation blueprint that the FRC has drawn up following more than two years of pressure on the audit firms triggered by a string of prominent failures.
Sources said, however, that at least two of the big four of Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) were writing to the watchdog to highlight continuing concerns about the plans.
They are said to believe that the absence of cross-subsidy would remove a key incentive to invest in improving audit quality by spending substantial sums on new technology.
The outlier among the quartet appears to be KPMG, which has been the hardest-hit by FRC fines in recent years following scandals at companies such as Ted Baker and the Co-op Bank.
Image: KPMG is among the so-called 'big four' auditors
KPMG was also the auditor of Carillion, which collapsed in 2018, sparking calls for urgent reform of the profession.
The firm said that it backs the principle of operational separation, and that it was "determined to help shape the future for an audit profession which acts in the public interest, delivers high quality audits that enhance trust and confidence and supports attractive and successful capital markets".
It added that it was committed to working with the FRC on the changes, and said it had been the first member of the big four to create a separate board of directors for its audit practice.
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"Operational separation of the UK's audit firms alone will not address the changes to the corporate landscape demanded by the reviews we have seen over the last two years," a KPMG spokesman said.
"To attain lasting change, this must be part of a broader package of reforms which include clarifying and enhancing the responsibilities of boards, directors and management in respect of corporate entity governance and the success or failure of the enterprise."
Ministers are expected to introduce legislation this year that will trigger far-reaching changes to the way auditors function.
As part of the FRC's reform blueprint, it will demand visibility over the accounts of the firms' audit operations to scrutinise them for possible cross-subsidy.
Its latest move underlines its intention to pursue its reform agenda even as auditors face severe disruption to revenues as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
All of the quartet which dominate the profession have taken steps to conserve cash by deferring promotions, reducing partner payouts and, in some cases, withdrawing job offers during the pandemic.
A spokesman for the regulator said it continued to "move forward with our project to achieve operational separation of audit practices".


news--2020-06-15--Coronanvirus: 'Over a million workers' locked out of support schemes, say MPs

The government is being urged to fulfil a promise to `` do whatever it takes '' to protect workers from the impact of coronavirus disruption , as MPs say there are more than a million people not covered by its financial support schemes .
In an interim report examining the economic impact of COVID-19 , the Treasury Select Committee said many freelance workers and recent employees had been `` locked out '' of receiving financial aid .
It praised the Chancellor Rishi Sunak for acting `` at impressive scale and pace '' in creating the packages of support for businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown since March but said it was clear there were cracks .
`` The Treasury 's interventions have been welcomed by many but rolling out financial support at pace and scale has inevitably resulted in some hard edges in policy design and some critical gaps in provision , '' it said .
`` The government must assist these people if it is to completely fulfil its promise to do whatever it takes to protect people from the economic impact of coronavirus . ''
The study was released just 24 hours before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revealed .
They will cover jobless claims in May following a record spike in April despite the support schemes propping up the economy .
The chancellor 's emergency loan programmes have paid out almost £35bn to businesses so far , according to the latest Treasury data , while the so-called furlough scheme had cost the best part of £20bn .
But the MPs ' report stated that the Job Retention Scheme had left many newly-employed people behind - despite the initial 28 February cut-off date for eligibility being extended to 19 March .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and also pointed to HM Revenue & Customs being unable , through time constraints , to process claims using employment contracts .
The committee said it was crucial that hundreds of thousands affected , and all new starters , could have access to support .
In addition it said those who had become self-employed within the last year , along with people whose companies have annual trading profits of more than £50,000 , should get help too .
The report said company directors who take their salaries as dividends were among those to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mel Stride , said : `` The chancellor has said that he will do whatever it takes to support people and businesses from the economic impact of the pandemic .
`` Overall , he has acted at impressive scale and pace .
`` However , the committee has identified well over a million people who , through no fault of their own , have lost livelihoods while being locked down and locked out of the main support programmes .
`` If it is to be fair and completely fulfil its promise of doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urgently enact our recommendations to help those who have fallen through the gaps . ''
A Treasury spokesperson responded : `` The swift and targeted action we 've taken has protected millions of jobs and livelihoods and our interventions have been rightly welcomed by the select committee .
`` Our wide-ranging support package is one of the most comprehensive in the world - with generous income support schemes , billions paid in loans and grants , tax deferrals and more than £6.5bn injected into the welfare safety net .
`` All our support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public funds responsibly , helping those who need it most as quickly as possible , while minimising fraud risk . ''

The government is being urged to fulfil a promise to "do whatever it takes" to protect workers from the impact of coronavirus disruption, as MPs say there are more than a million people not covered by its financial support schemes.
In an interim report examining the economic impact of COVID-19, the Treasury Select Committee said many freelance workers and recent employees had been "locked out" of receiving financial aid.
It praised the Chancellor Rishi Sunak for acting "at impressive scale and pace" in creating the packages of support for businesses to access cash and pay staff during the lockdown since March but said it was clear there were cracks.
"The Treasury's interventions have been welcomed by many but rolling out financial support at pace and scale has inevitably resulted in some hard edges in policy design and some critical gaps in provision," it said.
"The government must assist these people if it is to completely fulfil its promise to do whatever it takes to protect people from the economic impact of coronavirus."
The study was released just 24 hours before the latest employment figures are due to be revealed.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:43 Analysis: Who's used the UK furlough scheme?
They will cover jobless claims in May following a record spike in April despite the support schemes propping up the economy.
The chancellor's emergency loan programmes have paid out almost £35bn to businesses so far, according to the latest Treasury data, while the so-called furlough scheme had cost the best part of £20bn.
But the MPs' report stated that the Job Retention Scheme had left many newly-employed people behind - despite the initial 28 February cut-off date for eligibility being extended to 19 March.
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MPs cited employer delays in submitting paperwork and also pointed to HM Revenue & Customs being unable, through time constraints, to process claims using employment contracts.
The committee said it was crucial that hundreds of thousands affected, and all new starters, could have access to support.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:31 Chancellor: We've met the five tests
In addition it said those who had become self-employed within the last year, along with people whose companies have annual trading profits of more than £50,000, should get help too.
The report said company directors who take their salaries as dividends were among those to have been missed.
Committee chairman, Mel Stride, said: "The chancellor has said that he will do whatever it takes to support people and businesses from the economic impact of the pandemic.
"Overall, he has acted at impressive scale and pace.
"However, the committee has identified well over a million people who, through no fault of their own, have lost livelihoods while being locked down and locked out of the main support programmes.
"If it is to be fair and completely fulfil its promise of doing whatever it takes, the government should urgently enact our recommendations to help those who have fallen through the gaps."
A Treasury spokesperson responded: "The swift and targeted action we've taken has protected millions of jobs and livelihoods and our interventions have been rightly welcomed by the select committee.
"Our wide-ranging support package is one of the most comprehensive in the world - with generous income support schemes, billions paid in loans and grants, tax deferrals and more than £6.5bn injected into the welfare safety net.
"All our support is targeted to make sure we use public funds responsibly, helping those who need it most as quickly as possible, while minimising fraud risk."


news--2020-06-15--Marcus Rashford: Man Utd star calls for government U-turn on food voucher scheme

Footballer Marcus Rashford has urged the government to reconsider its decision not to extend the current food voucher scheme into the school summer holidays in a moving , personal letter to MPs .
The Manchester United and England forward writes about his own experiences as a child , relying on free school meals and food banks , and calls on ministers to `` find your humanity '' and `` make the U-turn '' .
The national voucher system was introduced in March to help low-income families feed their children when schools were closed because of the coronavirus lockdown .
Families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are on free school meals are eligible for the vouchers - worth £15 per week - but the government announced earlier this month that the scheme would not run during the summer holidays .
Rashford has been working with FareShare during the lockdown , and the 22-year-old has already helped raise more than £20m for the charity , pledging to `` keep fighting '' to tackle the issue of child hunger `` until no child in the UK has to worry about where their next meal is coming from '' .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rashford wrote : `` The government has taken a 'whatever it takes ' approach to the economy - I 'm asking you today to extend that same thinking to protecting all vulnerable children across England .
`` I encourage you to hear their pleas and find your humanity .
Please reconsider your decision to cancel the food voucher scheme over the summer holiday period and guarantee the extension .
`` This is England in 2020 , and this is an issue that needs urgent assistance .
`` Please , while the eyes of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U-turn and make protecting the lives of some of our most vulnerable a top priority . ''
Around five million people in households with children have struggled to put food on the table each day during the coronavirus crisis , while a third of children on free school meals did not have adequate alternative options , according to Food Foundation estimates .
Rashford warned MPs they could lose a generation of fans if they do not act now .
`` Understand : without the kindness and generosity of the community I had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Marcus Rashford you see today : a 22-year-old black man lucky enough to make a career playing a game I love .
`` My story to get here is all-too-familiar for families in England : my mum worked full-time , earning minimum wage to make sure we always had a good evening meal on the table .
But it was not enough .
The system was not built for families like mine to succeed , regardless of how hard my mum worked .
`` As a family , we relied on breakfast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the kind actions of neighbours and coaches .
Food banks and soup kitchens were not alien to us ; I recall very clearly our visits to Northern Moor to collect our Christmas dinners every year .
It 's only now that I really understand the enormous sacrifice my mum made in sending me away to live in digs aged 11 , a decision no mother would ever make lightly .
`` This summer should have been filled with pride once more , parents and children waving their flags , but in reality , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ twice with children who have had to skip meals during lockdown due to their families not being able to access food .
( 200,000 children according to Food Foundation estimates ) .
`` As their stomachs grumble , I wonder if those 200,000 children will ever be proud enough of their country to pull on the England national team shirt one day and sing the national anthem from the stands . ''
He added : `` As a black man from a low-income family in Wythenshawe , Manchester , I could have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the selfless actions of my mum , my family , my neighbours , and my coaches , the only stats I 'm associated with are goals , appearances and caps .
`` I would be doing myself , my family and my community an injustice if I did n't stand here today with my voice and my platform and ask you for help . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier this month , Rashford received a special recognition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester for his charity work .
Downing Street said Boris Johnson would reply to Rashford 's letter as `` soon as he can '' and praised the footballer for `` using his profile in a positive way to highlight some very important issues '' .
Mr Johnson 's official spokesman said : `` The prime minister understands the issues facing families across the UK which is why last week the government announced an additional £63m for local authorities to benefit families who are struggling to afford food and other basic essentials .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools open more widely and their kitchens reopen , we expect them to make food parcels available for collection or delivery for any children that are eligible for free school meals who are not yet able to return to schools .
`` Where that is not possible , schools can continue to offer vouchers to eligible pupils . ''

Footballer Marcus Rashford has urged the government to reconsider its decision not to extend the current food voucher scheme into the school summer holidays in a moving, personal letter to MPs.
The Manchester United and England forward writes about his own experiences as a child, relying on free school meals and food banks, and calls on ministers to "find your humanity" and "make the U-turn".
The national voucher system was introduced in March to help low-income families feed their children when schools were closed because of the coronavirus lockdown.
Families of about 1.3 million children in England who are on free school meals are eligible for the vouchers - worth £15 per week - but the government announced earlier this month that the scheme would not run during the summer holidays.
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Rashford has been working with FareShare during the lockdown, and the 22-year-old has already helped raise more than £20m for the charity, pledging to "keep fighting" to tackle the issue of child hunger "until no child in the UK has to worry about where their next meal is coming from".
In his passionate open letter to parliament, Rashford wrote: "The government has taken a 'whatever it takes' approach to the economy - I'm asking you today to extend that same thinking to protecting all vulnerable children across England.
"I encourage you to hear their pleas and find your humanity. Please reconsider your decision to cancel the food voucher scheme over the summer holiday period and guarantee the extension.
"This is England in 2020, and this is an issue that needs urgent assistance.
"Please, while the eyes of the nation are on you, make the U-turn and make protecting the lives of some of our most vulnerable a top priority."
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Around five million people in households with children have struggled to put food on the table each day during the coronavirus crisis, while a third of children on free school meals did not have adequate alternative options, according to Food Foundation estimates.
Rashford warned MPs they could lose a generation of fans if they do not act now.
"Understand: without the kindness and generosity of the community I had around me, there wouldn't be the Marcus Rashford you see today: a 22-year-old black man lucky enough to make a career playing a game I love.
"My story to get here is all-too-familiar for families in England: my mum worked full-time, earning minimum wage to make sure we always had a good evening meal on the table. But it was not enough. The system was not built for families like mine to succeed, regardless of how hard my mum worked.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:18 Long queue for food bank in London
"As a family, we relied on breakfast clubs, free school meals, and the kind actions of neighbours and coaches. Food banks and soup kitchens were not alien to us; I recall very clearly our visits to Northern Moor to collect our Christmas dinners every year. It's only now that I really understand the enormous sacrifice my mum made in sending me away to live in digs aged 11, a decision no mother would ever make lightly.
"This summer should have been filled with pride once more, parents and children waving their flags, but in reality, Wembley Stadium could be filled more than twice with children who have had to skip meals during lockdown due to their families not being able to access food. (200,000 children according to Food Foundation estimates).
"As their stomachs grumble, I wonder if those 200,000 children will ever be proud enough of their country to pull on the England national team shirt one day and sing the national anthem from the stands."
He added: "As a black man from a low-income family in Wythenshawe, Manchester, I could have been just another statistic.
"Instead, due to the selfless actions of my mum, my family, my neighbours, and my coaches, the only stats I'm associated with are goals, appearances and caps.
"I would be doing myself, my family and my community an injustice if I didn't stand here today with my voice and my platform and ask you for help."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Earlier this month, Rashford received a special recognition award from the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester for his charity work.
Downing Street said Boris Johnson would reply to Rashford's letter as "soon as he can" and praised the footballer for "using his profile in a positive way to highlight some very important issues".
Mr Johnson's official spokesman said: "The prime minister understands the issues facing families across the UK which is why last week the government announced an additional £63m for local authorities to benefit families who are struggling to afford food and other basic essentials.
"The PM also set out that as schools open more widely and their kitchens reopen, we expect them to make food parcels available for collection or delivery for any children that are eligible for free school meals who are not yet able to return to schools.
"Where that is not possible, schools can continue to offer vouchers to eligible pupils."


news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: Paris restaurant culture resumes after Macron's surprise announcement

The streets of Paris are busy with people enjoying its famous cafes and restaurants after they were allowed to fully reopen for the first time in three months .
Since 2 June , cafe and restaurant owners in the French capital have only been allowed to serve people outside to help reduce the spread of coronavirus .
But on Sunday night President Emmanuel Macron surprised the nation and announced that Paris was now part of France 's `` green zone '' , meaning restaurants can fully reopen .
`` We will rediscover the art of living , our taste for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said Mr Macron .
Parisians flooded back to their local bistros for a morning espresso or a three-course lunch , with large numbers seen wearing masks both on the terraces and indoors .
Previously only restaurants and cafes outside Paris 's Ile-de-France region were allowed to serve people indoors .
At the Cafe Des Anges in Bastille , manager Virgile Grunberg said although he has lost hundreds of thousands of euros from having to close with just hours ' notice on 14 March , he is hopeful he will be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have missed this , because they come in every morning before work , have a little coffee and a discussion .
It 's part of Paris . ''
Customer Marie-Elisabeth Vilaine described it as a `` renaissance but with caution '' as France still has the fifth-highest COVID-19 death toll in the world - at 29,410 .
Others said it was proving difficult to keep people apart , despite social distancing measures being in place .
Waiters dressed in traditional black and white suits were seen serving customers outside the well-known Cafe De @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city 's Latin Quarter on Monday .
But with the French border having only just reopened to other European countries , they will have to wait a little longer before tourists flock back .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker British tourists face a 14-day quarantine when they enter France ( as well as the same period when they return to the UK ) , and visitors from the USA , Asia and other continents will not be allowed back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Macron also used his television address to announce that all pupils in infant , primary and secondary schools would return on 22 June .
He added that the second round of the Paris local elections were being rescheduled for 28 June , and that the French overseas departments of Mayotte and Guiana remain at risk from the virus , so lockdown measures will remain there .

The streets of Paris are busy with people enjoying its famous cafes and restaurants after they were allowed to fully reopen for the first time in three months.
Since 2 June, cafe and restaurant owners in the French capital have only been allowed to serve people outside to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.
But on Sunday night President Emmanuel Macron surprised the nation and announced that Paris was now part of France's "green zone", meaning restaurants can fully reopen.
"We will rediscover the art of living, our taste for freedom. We will rediscover France," said Mr Macron.
Parisians flooded back to their local bistros for a morning espresso or a three-course lunch, with large numbers seen wearing masks both on the terraces and indoors.
Previously only restaurants and cafes outside Paris's Ile-de-France region were allowed to serve people indoors.
Image: The famous Cafe De Flore was among those back in business
At the Cafe Des Anges in Bastille, manager Virgile Grunberg said although he has lost hundreds of thousands of euros from having to close with just hours' notice on 14 March, he is hopeful he will be able to recover.
He said: "People have missed this, because they come in every morning before work, have a little coffee and a discussion. It's part of Paris."
Image: Restaurants were shut down with just hours' notice on 14 March
Image: Staff are wearing facemasks to serve customers
Customer Marie-Elisabeth Vilaine described it as a "renaissance but with caution" as France still has the fifth-highest COVID-19 death toll in the world - at 29,410.
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Others said it was proving difficult to keep people apart, despite social distancing measures being in place.
Waiters dressed in traditional black and white suits were seen serving customers outside the well-known Cafe De Flore and Les Deux Magots in the city's Latin Quarter on Monday.
But with the French border having only just reopened to other European countries, they will have to wait a little longer before tourists flock back.
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British tourists face a 14-day quarantine when they enter France (as well as the same period when they return to the UK), and visitors from the USA, Asia and other continents will not be allowed back until 1 July at the earliest.
Mr Macron also used his television address to announce that all pupils in infant, primary and secondary schools would return on 22 June.
He added that the second round of the Paris local elections were being rescheduled for 28 June, and that the French overseas departments of Mayotte and Guiana remain at risk from the virus, so lockdown measures will remain there.


news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: COVID-19 antibodies not detected in up to 8.5% of patients, study finds

COVID-19 antibodies have not been detected in up to 8.5 % of patients diagnosed with the disease , a study has found .
However researchers say the antibodies remain stable in the blood of most infected people almost two months after they are diagnosed - and possibly longer .
It comes after the government announced last month the supply of 10 million antibody tests to show if someone has had COVID-19 and potentially developed immunity to the virus .
Antibodies are produced by the immune system when it is being attacked in order to destroy substances which carry disease .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of London ; St George 's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine analysed antibody test results from 177 people diagnosed with COVID-19 .
The pre-print study , which has not been peer-reviewed , found that the levels of antibodies in patients which produced them remained stable for the duration of the study - almost two months .
But between 2 % and 8.5 % of patients did not develop COVID-19 antibodies at all , the researchers found .
The experts said this could be because the immune @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other mechanisms , such as different antigens .
The study also found that patients with the most severe infections were more likely to develop antibodies , suggesting a higher viral load could lead to greater stimulation of antibody development .
Being of non-white ethnicity was also associated with a higher antibody response , tying into the knowledge that patients from BAME backgrounds are more likely to develop severe disease , the researchers said .
Older patients or those who were overweight were also more likely to have an antibody response , they added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Professor Sanjeev Krishna , from St George 's , University of London , said : `` We need to understand how best to interpret the results from these tests to control the spread of the virus , as well as identifying those who may be immune to the disease . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said last month that research had shown at least 5 % of people in the UK have now developed COVID-19 antibodies - and at least 17 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts are still unsure what level of immunity recovering from the disease provides and how long it lasts .

COVID-19 antibodies have not been detected in up to 8.5% of patients diagnosed with the disease, a study has found.
However researchers say the antibodies remain stable in the blood of most infected people almost two months after they are diagnosed - and possibly longer.
It comes after the government announced last month the supply of 10 million antibody tests to show if someone has had COVID-19 and potentially developed immunity to the virus.
Image: It is unclear how long any immunity provided by the antibodies could last
Antibodies are produced by the immune system when it is being attacked in order to destroy substances which carry disease.
Experts from St George's, University of London; St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine analysed antibody test results from 177 people diagnosed with COVID-19.
The pre-print study, which has not been peer-reviewed, found that the levels of antibodies in patients which produced them remained stable for the duration of the study - almost two months.
But between 2% and 8.5% of patients did not develop COVID-19 antibodies at all, the researchers found.
The experts said this could be because the immune response in those patients could be through other mechanisms, such as different antigens.
The study also found that patients with the most severe infections were more likely to develop antibodies, suggesting a higher viral load could lead to greater stimulation of antibody development.
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Being of non-white ethnicity was also associated with a higher antibody response, tying into the knowledge that patients from BAME backgrounds are more likely to develop severe disease, the researchers said.
Older patients or those who were overweight were also more likely to have an antibody response, they added.
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Professor Sanjeev Krishna, from St George's, University of London, said: "We need to understand how best to interpret the results from these tests to control the spread of the virus, as well as identifying those who may be immune to the disease."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said last month that research had shown at least 5% of people in the UK have now developed COVID-19 antibodies - and at least 17% of Londoners have them.
But experts are still unsure what level of immunity recovering from the disease provides and how long it lasts.


news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: Lockdown anxiety easing but homeschooling pressures 'increasing stress'

Anxiety levels among Britons appear to be reducing compared with at the start of lockdown - but married people and those in civil partnerships have reported the highest rise in feeling anxious .
Around 19 million people are estimated to still be suffering from high anxiety with there being `` understandable concern '' about people 's wellbeing , according to the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) .
When lockdown started on 23 March , there was a `` marked '' increase in anxiety .
Between 20-30 March , nearly half ( 49.6 % ) of people reported high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % between 30 April and 10 May .
But the ONS suggested those who are married or in a civil partnership may be particularly worried due to balancing demands such as homeschooling and work commitments .
ONS statistician , Dawn Snape , said : `` Our figures show that the equivalent of 19 million adults in Great Britain report high levels of anxiety .
`` One particularly striking finding is that 39 % of people who are married or in a civil partnership reported high levels of anxiety .
This compares with 19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part be because of the challenges of homeschooling alongside work and other responsibilities .
`` Another marked change is in those aged 65 years or older .
`` Prior to the coronavirus pandemic , we consistently saw lower anxiety ratings in those aged 65 years and older , but now we are seeing the highest levels of anxiety amongst this group in lockdown . ''
The ONS report said people who `` often or always '' felt lonely were almost five times more likely to report high anxiety than those who `` never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and older were twice as likely as adults aged 16 to 24 to report high levels of anxiety .
Around one in five of those who reported high levels of anxiety said they were finding working from home difficult .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Between 3 April and 10 May , women had higher anxiety scores than men - average anxiety scores for women were 4.7 out of 10 compared with 3.9 out of 10 for men .
People with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a higher anxiety score , as were people who reported that they did not feel `` safe '' in their own home .
The ONS report states : `` When a shock event occurs , such as the impact of the coronavirus , wellbeing is temporarily impacted , but people then quickly adapt so that wellbeing partially bounces back , though not necessarily to the same level as it was before the shock .
`` During lockdown new measures have been put into place , which may have also helped to alleviate high @ @ @ @ @

Anxiety levels among Britons appear to be reducing compared with at the start of lockdown - but married people and those in civil partnerships have reported the highest rise in feeling anxious.
Around 19 million people are estimated to still be suffering from high anxiety with there being "understandable concern" about people's wellbeing, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
When lockdown started on 23 March, there was a "marked" increase in anxiety.
Between 20-30 March, nearly half (49.6%) of people reported high anxiety - this figure reduced to 37% between 30 April and 10 May.
But the ONS suggested those who are married or in a civil partnership may be particularly worried due to balancing demands such as homeschooling and work commitments.
ONS statistician, Dawn Snape, said: "Our figures show that the equivalent of 19 million adults in Great Britain report high levels of anxiety.
"One particularly striking finding is that 39% of people who are married or in a civil partnership reported high levels of anxiety. This compares with 19% pre-pandemic.
"It may in part be because of the challenges of homeschooling alongside work and other responsibilities.
"Another marked change is in those aged 65 years or older.
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"Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, we consistently saw lower anxiety ratings in those aged 65 years and older, but now we are seeing the highest levels of anxiety amongst this group in lockdown."
The ONS report said people who "often or always" felt lonely were almost five times more likely to report high anxiety than those who "never" feel lonely.
People aged 75 and older were twice as likely as adults aged 16 to 24 to report high levels of anxiety.
Around one in five of those who reported high levels of anxiety said they were finding working from home difficult.
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Between 3 April and 10 May, women had higher anxiety scores than men - average anxiety scores for women were 4.7 out of 10 compared with 3.9 out of 10 for men.
People with disabilities were also more likely to report a higher anxiety score, as were people who reported that they did not feel "safe" in their own home.
The ONS report states: "When a shock event occurs, such as the impact of the coronavirus, wellbeing is temporarily impacted, but people then quickly adapt so that wellbeing partially bounces back, though not necessarily to the same level as it was before the shock.
"During lockdown new measures have been put into place, which may have also helped to alleviate high levels of anxiety."


news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: FTSE 100 plunges as 'second wave' fears break global stock market values

Global stock market values are taking a fresh hit on mounting fears a 'second wave ' of coronavirus infections will wreak further damage on the global economy .
The FTSE 100 plunged below the 6,000 points barrier early on Monday after steep falls across many indices in Asia .
Market analysts cited a new flight from risk after it emerged over the weekend that authorities in China had closed a popular food market in Beijing following a spike in COVID-19 cases .
The revelation built on investor worries last week about infection numbers in the United States - the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that was also reflected in market values .
Michael McCarthy , chief market strategist at CMC Markets , said in a note : `` Reports of a new COVID-19 lockdown in Beijing speak directly to market fears that the measures taken to contain the virus so far are not enough . ''
Japan 's Nikkei was 3 % down while all the major stock markets in Europe registered losses at the open with the CAC in Paris closing down 0.5 % , the German DAX down 0.3 % and the Spanish IBEX down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 2 % in a broad-based sell-off though values later recovered some poise Europe-wide heading towards midday with all the major bourses down by around 1 % .
The FTSE closed down 0.66 % .
US futures suggested Wall Street was on track to feel renewed pain - following its worst week in three months - with the S & P 500 falling 2.3 % in early trading on Monday .
Amid growing fears that the increase in virus cases would lead to further lockdowns , other markets also opened lower in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.6 % and the tech-rich Nasdaq down by 0.5 % .
A few hours later , all three turned positive , although only marginally .
Neil Wilson , chief market analyst at Markets.com , said of the investor reaction : `` We are seeing pockets of cases in Beijing suddenly - the first in 50 days , whilst Alabama , Florida and South Carolina have reported record numbers of new cases for three days straight .
`` The dreaded second wave will weigh on equity markets - it is already sparking a wave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chuck even more money at this , '' he wrote .

Global stock market values are taking a fresh hit on mounting fears a 'second wave' of coronavirus infections will wreak further damage on the global economy.
The FTSE 100 plunged below the 6,000 points barrier early on Monday after steep falls across many indices in Asia.
Market analysts cited a new flight from risk after it emerged over the weekend that authorities in China had closed a popular food market in Beijing following a spike in COVID-19 cases.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:26 Is bath tub-shaped recovery on the way?
The revelation built on investor worries last week about infection numbers in the United States - the world's largest economy ahead of China - that was also reflected in market values.
Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist at CMC Markets, said in a note: "Reports of a new COVID-19 lockdown in Beijing speak directly to market fears that the measures taken to contain the virus so far are not enough."
Japan's Nikkei was 3% down while all the major stock markets in Europe registered losses at the open with the CAC in Paris closing down 0.5%, the German DAX down 0.3% and the Spanish IBEX down 0.5%.
The FTSE fell more than 2% in a broad-based sell-off though values later recovered some poise Europe-wide heading towards midday with all the major bourses down by around 1%. The FTSE closed down 0.66%.
Image: Stock market values had been reflecting gradual re-openings of economies before 'second wave' jitters hit last week
US futures suggested Wall Street was on track to feel renewed pain - following its worst week in three months - with the S&P 500 falling 2.3% in early trading on Monday.
Amid growing fears that the increase in virus cases would lead to further lockdowns, other markets also opened lower in the US: the Dow Jones falling by 1.6% and the tech-rich Nasdaq down by 0.5%. A few hours later, all three turned positive, although only marginally.
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Neil Wilson, chief market analyst at Markets.com, said of the investor reaction: "We are seeing pockets of cases in Beijing suddenly - the first in 50 days, whilst Alabama, Florida and South Carolina have reported record numbers of new cases for three days straight.
"The dreaded second wave will weigh on equity markets - it is already sparking a wave of selling - and force policymakers to chuck even more money at this," he wrote.


news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: Zoos have 'renewed hope for survival' - with some selling out of tickets

Zoos have said they have `` renewed hope for survival '' - with ticket sales surging after they were allowed to reopen .
Safari parks and zoos have been welcoming back visitors for the first time since lockdown measures were introduced in the UK on 23 March due to the coronavirus outbreak .
But officials at some of the UK 's top attractions still warned about a difficult road to recovery , admitting it will be `` long and uncertain '' as they try to bridge the financial hole left by the COVID-19 pandemic .
Chester Zoo , the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 35,000 animals , said tickets had sold out for the rest of this month as they reported their busiest-ever day for online bookings .
Monday saw staff greet up to 3,000 visitors as safety measures meant capacity at the 128-acre site was reduced .
In `` normal times '' , the zoo would see about 12,000 people on a busy day in June .
Jamie Christon , the chief operating officer at the Cheshire-based site , said : `` A week ago we were in despair , not knowing when we would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ survive if our gates had to remain closed for much longer .
`` But the unwavering support of the public , our members , those MPs who listened to us and backed our corner , and our global community has completely humbled us .
It 's wonderful that , together , we have been heard .
`` This is n't over just yet , though .
There 's no denying that the zoo has suffered severe financial damage over the past three months and the road to recovery will be long and uncertain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to safely welcome back visitors through our gates - albeit in much , much fewer numbers - we now also start the process of rebuilding this great charity zoo .
We now have renewed hope that we will survive . ''
The Zoological Society of London ( ZSL ) runs the London and Whipsnade zoos and said online tickets had sold out after `` amazing support '' from the public .
It has been limiting the number of visitors to its London site to 2,000 people - and staff said they were `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public back .
Zookeeper Daniel Simmonds , said : `` It 's been a really surreal , and quite anxious , time at the zoo without visitors on site , but we are all so excited that our efforts have paid off .
`` The demand for tickets was so high on the day they went on sale that our website had a bit of a wobble , but it 's all fixed now . ''
Kathryn England , the chief operating officer for ZSL London , added : `` While the reopening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebration , it 's not the end of our fundraising efforts yet .
`` The increased safety measures mean London Zoo will be limited to just 2,000 visitors a day - well below the numbers needed to recoup the charity 's lost income , so we really hope that we 'll continue to receive the amazing support from the public we 've seen so far . ''
Other zoos across the country also reported healthy online sales .
Twycross Zoo said all available tickets for entry had sold out for the rest of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given a time to arrive at the Leicestershire site so staff can help manage social distancing measures .

Zoos have said they have "renewed hope for survival" - with ticket sales surging after they were allowed to reopen.
Safari parks and zoos have been welcoming back visitors for the first time since lockdown measures were introduced in the UK on 23 March due to the coronavirus outbreak.
But officials at some of the UK's top attractions still warned about a difficult road to recovery, admitting it will be "long and uncertain" as they try to bridge the financial hole left by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Image: People visit Chester Zoo as it welcomes back the public
Chester Zoo, the UK's biggest such attraction which is home to 35,000 animals, said tickets had sold out for the rest of this month as they reported their busiest-ever day for online bookings.
Monday saw staff greet up to 3,000 visitors as safety measures meant capacity at the 128-acre site was reduced. In "normal times", the zoo would see about 12,000 people on a busy day in June.
Jamie Christon, the chief operating officer at the Cheshire-based site, said: "A week ago we were in despair, not knowing when we would reopen, or if we could even survive if our gates had to remain closed for much longer.
"But the unwavering support of the public, our members, those MPs who listened to us and backed our corner, and our global community has completely humbled us. It's wonderful that, together, we have been heard.
"This isn't over just yet, though. There's no denying that the zoo has suffered severe financial damage over the past three months and the road to recovery will be long and uncertain.
"However, as we start to safely welcome back visitors through our gates - albeit in much, much fewer numbers - we now also start the process of rebuilding this great charity zoo. We now have renewed hope that we will survive."
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Image: A member of staff welcomes visitors to London Zoo on the first day of its reopening
The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) runs the London and Whipsnade zoos and said online tickets had sold out after "amazing support" from the public.
It has been limiting the number of visitors to its London site to 2,000 people - and staff said they were "so excited" to be welcoming the public back.
Zookeeper Daniel Simmonds, said: "It's been a really surreal, and quite anxious, time at the zoo without visitors on site, but we are all so excited that our efforts have paid off.
"The demand for tickets was so high on the day they went on sale that our website had a bit of a wobble, but it's all fixed now."
Kathryn England, the chief operating officer for ZSL London, added: "While the reopening news is certainly worthy of a big celebration, it's not the end of our fundraising efforts yet.
"The increased safety measures mean London Zoo will be limited to just 2,000 visitors a day - well below the numbers needed to recoup the charity's lost income, so we really hope that we'll continue to receive the amazing support from the public we've seen so far."
Other zoos across the country also reported healthy online sales. Twycross Zoo said all available tickets for entry had sold out for the rest of this week.
Visitors are also being given a time to arrive at the Leicestershire site so staff can help manage social distancing measures.


news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: Home DNA test data wanted to help identify genes that increase COVID-19 risk

People who have used home DNA testing kits could help scientists establish if certain genes make you more likely to die from coronavirus .
Test results from popular DIY ancestry kits could help researchers understand which genes are involved in the body 's response to COVID-19 .
Using data from testing services such as Ancestry DNA , FTDNA or 23andMe would save scientists the costly and time-consuming process of having to collect DNA samples , experts from the University of Edinburgh said .
A team of researchers from the university is doing a study to identify which patients are more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or none at all - based on their DNA .
They are calling on the 30 million people who use home DNA testing services worldwide to help them with their research .
Albert Tenesa , professor of quantitative genetics at the University of Edinburgh , who is co-leading the study , said : `` Time is of the essence .
`` To identify the genes that explain why some people get very sick from coronavirus and others do n't , we need the solidarity of a large proportion of people from different countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with us .
In this case , size really matters . ''
People taking part in the study will provide their DNA data and complete online questionnaires about their health , lifestyle and any virus symptoms they have had .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Updating surveys before , during and after infection will help identify any patterns that link the disease with DNA , the scientists added .
The study , which has been named Coronagenes and is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Research Council , Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Council , Health Data Research UK and Wellcome Trust , will also look at the long-term health consequences of infection and self-isolation .
Anyone who would like to volunteer for the study , can sign up here .

People who have used home DNA testing kits could help scientists establish if certain genes make you more likely to die from coronavirus.
Test results from popular DIY ancestry kits could help researchers understand which genes are involved in the body's response to COVID-19.
Using data from testing services such as Ancestry DNA, FTDNA or 23andMe would save scientists the costly and time-consuming process of having to collect DNA samples, experts from the University of Edinburgh said.
A team of researchers from the university is doing a study to identify which patients are more likely to develop severe coronavirus symptoms - or none at all - based on their DNA.
They are calling on the 30 million people who use home DNA testing services worldwide to help them with their research.
Albert Tenesa, professor of quantitative genetics at the University of Edinburgh, who is co-leading the study, said: "Time is of the essence.
"To identify the genes that explain why some people get very sick from coronavirus and others don't, we need the solidarity of a large proportion of people from different countries who can share their DNA testing results with us. In this case, size really matters."
People taking part in the study will provide their DNA data and complete online questionnaires about their health, lifestyle and any virus symptoms they have had.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Updating surveys before, during and after infection will help identify any patterns that link the disease with DNA, the scientists added.
The study, which has been named Coronagenes and is being done with the support of the Medical Research Council, Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Council, Health Data Research UK and Wellcome Trust, will also look at the long-term health consequences of infection and self-isolation.
Anyone who would like to volunteer for the study, can sign up here.


news--2020-06-15--Coronavirus: Queues outside major shops and crowds flock to zoos as England eases lockdown

The rules of shopping have changed , but that has n't put off the swarms of shoppers lining England 's high streets as non-essential shops welcomed back customers for the first time in 12 weeks .
Measures implemented around London 's West End included hand sanitiser dispensers on streets , social distancing ambassadors and the doubling of the pavement on Regent Street .
Many of those waiting to enter stores were mindful of safety measures and were wearing protective masks - with one woman even wearing a full-length hooded protective suit .
She used a brown paper Primark bag to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ store , while another woman , who had three bags of new purchases , said : `` It 's good to be back - it seems like forever since I 've been in a clothes shop . ''
A doorman in a full face visor helped to welcome back customers to the Fenwick store in Northumberland Street , Newcastle .
Asked if she was pleased to see stores reopening , 39-year-old estate agent Kasia Ruta replied : `` Very much so , I 'm ready to move on .
I 'm quite laid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shopper in Manchester city centre added : `` This is crazy , queuing just for clothes .
But it is nice to see more people out and about and things getting back to normal . ''
Footfall on high streets , retail parks and shopping centres in England was up 41.7 % compared with last week , according to a survey by retail experts Springboard this morning .
However , some were put-off by the new restricted shopping experience .
Kristina Taylor , who works in finance , had joined a line of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Regent Street .
Asked if she was pleased about shops reopening , she said : `` Yes and no .
I will pop by Primark to see the queue .
But not keen on all of this queuing , it makes me think twice about whether I need something from that shop . ''
Speaking to Sky News ' Paul Kelso outside of Selfridges in London , Jace Tyrrell , the chief executive of New West End Co , said : `` The West End is opening after three months and customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Reflecting on the day so far , he said : `` There 's a lovely pace about it .
No mass crowds ...
It 's going to feel very different around the West End for quite some time . ''
Asked if some of the fun of shopping will disappear , Mr Tyrrell disagreed , saying : `` There is a bit of fun !
We 're about to see some DJs outside Selfridges .
It is still the art of experience , retail .
`` Just browse with your eyes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the moment . ''
Social distancing measures were in force at Waterstones in London 's Piccadilly - including a `` quarantine trolley '' for books people browse but choose not to buy .
JD Sports was among the retail chains reopening - but with reduced numbers of shoppers inside .
Peter Cowgill , executive chairman of JD Sports , told Sky News ' Ian King the cost of reopening in a way that safeguards against coronavirus has been `` into the millions '' .
But as many towns and city centres were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-big brand retailers across the country , restarting their small businesses was not an option .
Paula Chappell said she would not be reopening her bridal boutique Ava Rose Hamilton in Silsden , West Yorksire , until 4 July .
She told Sky 's Kay Burley @ Breakfast : `` We have a really personal service .
We fit brides so we are working really close ... pinning and fitting . ''
The businesswoman said the `` 72-hour quarantine for bridal gowns '' , as well as the two-metre rule , would make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government guidelines '' .
London 's entire West End shopping and theatre district is expected to see just 10 % to 15 % of its normal customers this week .
This drop is partially rooted in the absence of tourists , who currently have to observe a 14-day quarantine if coming into Britain .
Linda Pilkington , who owns a high-end perfume boutique off London 's Bond Street , believes some shoppers wo n't come because the social element has been removed .
She said : `` People like the social side of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and all the grand shops , it 's an exciting event .
All those people coming to London for a show , making a weekend of it , that wo n't be there .
`` It 's just not going to be the same . ''
It was also the first day that face coverings became mandatory on public transport , with staff at some stations handing out blue face masks to commuters , who face a fine if they fail to comply with the new rules .
Sky 's Becky Johnson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I would say maybe 95 % of people , maybe more than that , are wearing them .
`` Anybody not covering their faces are quickly being stopped by station staff and are being told they do need to cover up before they get on any of the trains .
`` Some of the bus drivers here in Birmingham have been refusing people entry to buses if they have n't got their face covered . ''
The sunny weather , coupled with the lifting of restrictions , saw queues of families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coverings - form outside zoos across the country .
Zoos , together with safari parks , were also given the green light to reopen to visitors .
Jamie Turner , site manager for ZSL London Zoo , said just under 2,000 tickets had been sold for the day and that the return of so many customers was `` beautiful to see '' .
Edward Perry , managing director of Knowsley Safari in Merseyside , said while he was `` fully booked for the next two-and-a-half weeks '' with some 35,000 visitors expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and contradictions '' from the government had left him `` frustrated '' during the lockdown .
`` It was easier to get a Big Mac than it was to come and see our big cats , '' he told Sky News .
Around 90 % of secondary schools also unlocked their doors to students this morning , to give pre-exam pupils some face time with teachers .
Sky 's Ashna Hurynag spoke to students at the mixed sixth form at Southend High School for Boys in Southend-on-Sea .
One pupil , called Luke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important '' to be back in because `` if we needed help from our teachers before then we 'd have to email them and it could take a day to get a reply for them '' .
`` Now we can just ask them a question straight off , and your studies are a lot more efficient that way , '' he said .
Another student , Leah , said coming back to school was helping her to `` stay motivated '' .
`` You have the same atmosphere as before lockdown because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have got to keep that up obviously for next year and our uni applications , '' she said .
The lockdown relaxation comes as a survey suggested less than half of people were comfortable with `` the new normal '' .
However , Oliver Rowe , director of reputation research at YouGov , warned while Monday clearly marked a significant milestone `` in returning the country to normality '' , there is `` a lot of work to be done yet to convince shoppers that it 's business as usual '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ this month suggested just 40 % of people were comfortable to go back into stores , and only 48 % think they would be able to stay the required two metres away from other shoppers .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Rowe said : `` Half of Brits say that they 're uncomfortable returning to pubs , restaurants and clothing shops , and large portions of the public are unsure they could adequately socially distance once inside .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ concern is highest amongst women , who said they were more uncomfortable than men , sometimes by large margins , about returning to all outlets .
`` There 's clearly more for business and the government to do if they 're going to entice shoppers back to the high street , but it 's tough to see how they do that while the dual health and economic uncertainty remains in people 's minds . ''
Business minister Paul Scully told Kay Burley @ Breakfast that the prime minister was conducting a `` comprehensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but warned that everything must be `` balanced '' by the `` best scientific advice '' .
He insisted it was safe to shop , noting the new looks many stores will have as they attempt to ensure social distancing and good hygiene among staff and customers .

The rules of shopping have changed, but that hasn't put off the swarms of shoppers lining England's high streets as non-essential shops welcomed back customers for the first time in 12 weeks.
Measures implemented around London's West End included hand sanitiser dispensers on streets, social distancing ambassadors and the doubling of the pavement on Regent Street.
Many of those waiting to enter stores were mindful of safety measures and were wearing protective masks - with one woman even wearing a full-length hooded protective suit.
Image: Most shoppers were not put off by the queues as non-essential shops reopened for the first time since lockdown began
She used a brown paper Primark bag to cover her face as she left the store, while another woman, who had three bags of new purchases, said: "It's good to be back - it seems like forever since I've been in a clothes shop."
A doorman in a full face visor helped to welcome back customers to the Fenwick store in Northumberland Street, Newcastle.
Asked if she was pleased to see stores reopening, 39-year-old estate agent Kasia Ruta replied: "Very much so, I'm ready to move on. I'm quite laid back about it all."
A shopper in Manchester city centre added: "This is crazy, queuing just for clothes. But it is nice to see more people out and about and things getting back to normal."
Image: Shoppers queue outside Primark at the MK1 Shopping Park in Milton Keynes
Footfall on high streets, retail parks and shopping centres in England was up 41.7% compared with last week, according to a survey by retail experts Springboard this morning.
However, some were put-off by the new restricted shopping experience.
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Kristina Taylor, who works in finance, had joined a line of customers outside the Apple store in London's Regent Street.
Asked if she was pleased about shops reopening, she said: "Yes and no. I will pop by Primark to see the queue. But not keen on all of this queuing, it makes me think twice about whether I need something from that shop."
Speaking to Sky News' Paul Kelso outside of Selfridges in London, Jace Tyrrell, the chief executive of New West End Co, said: "The West End is opening after three months and customers are easing their way into it."
Reflecting on the day so far, he said: "There's a lovely pace about it. No mass crowds... It's going to feel very different around the West End for quite some time."
Image: People buy ice cream as they enjoy the fine weather while shopping on the high street in Norwich
Asked if some of the fun of shopping will disappear, Mr Tyrrell disagreed, saying: "There is a bit of fun! We're about to see some DJs outside Selfridges. It is still the art of experience, retail.
"Just browse with your eyes, not your hands, is the message at the moment."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:52 Landlords 'living in the past' on rents
Social distancing measures were in force at Waterstones in London's Piccadilly - including a "quarantine trolley" for books people browse but choose not to buy.
JD Sports was among the retail chains reopening - but with reduced numbers of shoppers inside.
Peter Cowgill, executive chairman of JD Sports, told Sky News' Ian King the cost of reopening in a way that safeguards against coronavirus has been "into the millions".
But as many towns and city centres were bustling again with shoppers, for many non-big brand retailers across the country, restarting their small businesses was not an option.
Paula Chappell said she would not be reopening her bridal boutique Ava Rose Hamilton in Silsden, West Yorksire, until 4 July.
She told Sky's Kay Burley@Breakfast: "We have a really personal service. We fit brides so we are working really close... pinning and fitting."
The businesswoman said the "72-hour quarantine for bridal gowns", as well as the two-metre rule, would make it "impossible to work within the government guidelines".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:22 Former business sec: 'Get shopping again'
London's entire West End shopping and theatre district is expected to see just 10% to 15% of its normal customers this week.
This drop is partially rooted in the absence of tourists, who currently have to observe a 14-day quarantine if coming into Britain.
Image: A vendor sets up their market stall in York
Linda Pilkington, who owns a high-end perfume boutique off London's Bond Street, believes some shoppers won't come because the social element has been removed.
She said: "People like the social side of shopping. When you hit Bond Street and all the grand shops, it's an exciting event. All those people coming to London for a show, making a weekend of it, that won't be there.
"It's just not going to be the same."
It was also the first day that face coverings became mandatory on public transport, with staff at some stations handing out blue face masks to commuters, who face a fine if they fail to comply with the new rules.
Sky's Becky Johnson, at Birmingham New Street station, said: "I would say maybe 95% of people, maybe more than that, are wearing them.
"Anybody not covering their faces are quickly being stopped by station staff and are being told they do need to cover up before they get on any of the trains.
"Some of the bus drivers here in Birmingham have been refusing people entry to buses if they haven't got their face covered."
Image: Face coverings are now mandatory on all public transport
The sunny weather, coupled with the lifting of restrictions, saw queues of families with young children - some without face coverings - form outside zoos across the country.
Zoos, together with safari parks, were also given the green light to reopen to visitors.
Image: Visitors at the giraffe enclosure at London Zoo
Jamie Turner, site manager for ZSL London Zoo, said just under 2,000 tickets had been sold for the day and that the return of so many customers was "beautiful to see".
Edward Perry, managing director of Knowsley Safari in Merseyside, said while he was "fully booked for the next two-and-a-half weeks" with some 35,000 visitors expected to flock to the venue, "inconsistencies and contradictions" from the government had left him "frustrated" during the lockdown.
"It was easier to get a Big Mac than it was to come and see our big cats," he told Sky News.
Image: Chester Zoo reopens to visitors
Around 90% of secondary schools also unlocked their doors to students this morning, to give pre-exam pupils some face time with teachers.
Sky's Ashna Hurynag spoke to students at the mixed sixth form at Southend High School for Boys in Southend-on-Sea.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:04 More schools to reopen
One pupil, called Luke, told her it was "really important" to be back in because "if we needed help from our teachers before then we'd have to email them and it could take a day to get a reply for them".
"Now we can just ask them a question straight off, and your studies are a lot more efficient that way," he said.
Another student, Leah, said coming back to school was helping her to "stay motivated".
"You have the same atmosphere as before lockdown because we were preparing for our AS-levels and we have got to keep that up obviously for next year and our uni applications," she said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:50 Shops reopen after the lockdown
The lockdown relaxation comes as a survey suggested less than half of people were comfortable with "the new normal".
However, Oliver Rowe, director of reputation research at YouGov, warned while Monday clearly marked a significant milestone "in returning the country to normality", there is "a lot of work to be done yet to convince shoppers that it's business as usual".
Results of YouGov polling carried out earlier this month suggested just 40% of people were comfortable to go back into stores, and only 48% think they would be able to stay the required two metres away from other shoppers.
Edit
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Rowe said: "Half of Brits say that they're uncomfortable returning to pubs, restaurants and clothing shops, and large portions of the public are unsure they could adequately socially distance once inside.
"When split by gender, the concern is highest amongst women, who said they were more uncomfortable than men, sometimes by large margins, about returning to all outlets.
"There's clearly more for business and the government to do if they're going to entice shoppers back to the high street, but it's tough to see how they do that while the dual health and economic uncertainty remains in people's minds."
Image: People have their temperatures taken as they queue up to enter the Apple Store at Brent Cross in London
Business minister Paul Scully told Kay Burley@Breakfast that the prime minister was conducting a "comprehensive review" into the two-metre rule, but warned that everything must be "balanced" by the "best scientific advice".
He insisted it was safe to shop, noting the new looks many stores will have as they attempt to ensure social distancing and good hygiene among staff and customers.


news--2020-06-14--Shops welcome back customers but businesses fear for their survival

After two-and-a-half months in lockdown , non-essential shops in England were allowed to reopen their doors today .
But many small retailers fear for their survival amid a boom in online sales and new social distancing rules .
It 's possible shopping will never be the same again .
John Lewis and Partners has told Sky News that the pandemic is likely to `` change the future of retail '' .
Northern Ireland allowed shops to reopen on Friday .
Non-essential shops in Scotland and Wales remain closed for now .
Shops will have to stick to guidelines designed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
They must ensure two-metre distancing is always maintained and are encouraged to use contactless payments where possible .
They should also discourage the touching of products and ensure any items being returned are quarantined for 72 hours .
Many business owners say these measures are likely to affect their margins .
Sheryl Shurville , who runs Chorleywood Bookshop in Rickmansworth , Hertfordshire , is excited about reopening but is wary of the challenges ahead .
During lockdown her income has fallen by 90 % .
`` It 's been devastating , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worried if we 're going to take enough money to make the business viable , because a lot of our business was author events and schools events and that 's not coming back .
`` So without that I do n't know how viable the business is going to be .
And also our overheads , we still have to pay rent and in fact our landlord wants a rent increase .
The figures just do n't stack up . ''
For large and small retailers alike it 's about instilling confidence - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
At John Lewis and Partners , staff are limiting numbers of people in stores , sanitising products and even providing disposable covers for customers trying pillows and mattresses .
During lockdown the company has seen an online boom and it recognises this may be the future .
`` It could change the future of retail positively , '' says Berangere Michel , executive director of customer services at John Lewis and Partners .
`` What I 've seen over the last 12 weeks is greater innovation than ever .
We launched virtual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was going to work or not .
It would normally have taken weeks or months to do it , but it took days and we had 2000 bookings .
`` Clearly we are constantly , like any other retailers , doing a review of our estate and our shops .
If we have too many or too much space we rightsize , or we change it , that 's just business . ''
The high street was already having a hard time before the COVID-19 shutdown and some household names such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Many fear that reduced customer numbers will push other businesses into administration .
Shopping centres which rely on rents could be affected .
At Centre MK in Milton Keynes , they are confident in the business model but acknowledge that their future holds major uncertainties .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' There 's been some press recently about retailers going out of business or going into administration , '' says Kevin Duffy , Centre MK 's director .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ means yet , and I do n't think we 'll know over the next month .
I think it will take much longer than that to really understand what 's happening in the country and the world . ''
With news on Friday that the UK economy shrunk by a record 20.4 % in April , there is hope that retail reopening will be an important first step in the reopening of the broader economy .
Ahead of the reopening of shops on Monday morning , the government 's small business minister Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Breakfast show : `` We 've followed the scientific advice , we believe that we 've met the five tests ( for easing the lockdown ) now and it is an appropriate time to start opening up so people can go back to shops .
`` They can stay alert , making sure that retailers have put all the measures in place that they need to stay safe .
`` Clearly things are going to be different , there 's going to be one-way systems around , there 's going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things .
`` So the experience will be different .
`` But they can go out confidently now and , as long as people are sensible and working together , with this new normal situation , then they 'll be fine and they 'll be good to go back to shops . ''

After two-and-a-half months in lockdown, non-essential shops in England were allowed to reopen their doors today.
But many small retailers fear for their survival amid a boom in online sales and new social distancing rules.
It's possible shopping will never be the same again. John Lewis and Partners has told Sky News that the pandemic is likely to "change the future of retail".
Image: A person walks past a boarded up Debenhams, Oxford Street
Northern Ireland allowed shops to reopen on Friday. Non-essential shops in Scotland and Wales remain closed for now.
Shops will have to stick to guidelines designed to keep staff and customers safe from the coronavirus.
They must ensure two-metre distancing is always maintained and are encouraged to use contactless payments where possible. They should also discourage the touching of products and ensure any items being returned are quarantined for 72 hours.
Many business owners say these measures are likely to affect their margins.
Sheryl Shurville, who runs Chorleywood Bookshop in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, is excited about reopening but is wary of the challenges ahead.
During lockdown her income has fallen by 90%.
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"It's been devastating," she said.
"I'm worried if we're going to take enough money to make the business viable, because a lot of our business was author events and schools events and that's not coming back.
Image: John Lewis says it's preparing for a phased reopening of their department stores
"So without that I don't know how viable the business is going to be. And also our overheads, we still have to pay rent and in fact our landlord wants a rent increase. The figures just don't stack up."
For large and small retailers alike it's about instilling confidence - without it, customers won't come.
At John Lewis and Partners, staff are limiting numbers of people in stores, sanitising products and even providing disposable covers for customers trying pillows and mattresses.
Image: Social distancing is feared to affect the number of customers shopping on the high street
During lockdown the company has seen an online boom and it recognises this may be the future.
"It could change the future of retail positively," says Berangere Michel, executive director of customer services at John Lewis and Partners.
"What I've seen over the last 12 weeks is greater innovation than ever. We launched virtual services, we didn't know if it was going to work or not. It would normally have taken weeks or months to do it, but it took days and we had 2000 bookings.
"Clearly we are constantly, like any other retailers, doing a review of our estate and our shops. If we have too many or too much space we rightsize, or we change it, that's just business."
The high street was already having a hard time before the COVID-19 shutdown and some household names such as Debenhams will not reopen all its stores.
Many fear that reduced customer numbers will push other businesses into administration. Shopping centres which rely on rents could be affected.
At Centre MK in Milton Keynes, they are confident in the business model but acknowledge that their future holds major uncertainties.
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"There's been some press recently about retailers going out of business or going into administration," says Kevin Duffy, Centre MK's director.
"We don't quite know what that means yet, and I don't think we'll know over the next month. I think it will take much longer than that to really understand what's happening in the country and the world."
With news on Friday that the UK economy shrunk by a record 20.4% in April, there is hope that retail reopening will be an important first step in the reopening of the broader economy.
Ahead of the reopening of shops on Monday morning, the government's small business minister Paul Scully told Sky News' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show: "We've followed the scientific advice, we believe that we've met the five tests (for easing the lockdown) now and it is an appropriate time to start opening up so people can go back to shops.
"They can stay alert, making sure that retailers have put all the measures in place that they need to stay safe.
"Clearly things are going to be different, there's going to be one-way systems around, there's going to be hand sanitisers around, these kind of things.
"So the experience will be different.
"But they can go out confidently now and, as long as people are sensible and working together, with this new normal situation, then they'll be fine and they'll be good to go back to shops."