news--2020-03-13--Coronavirus: Why isn't the UK closing down schools like other countries?

Following Boris Johnson 's emergency COBRA meeting yesterday , some expected an announcement that UK schools would temporarily close .
But although the prime minister has warned that new measures to delay the coronavirus outbreak will cause `` severe disruption across our country for many months '' , he stressed these restrictions should not be introduced too early .
At present , schools will only close if they are specifically told so - such as if a student or staff member contracts COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
The University of Glasgow has , however , announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheduled for April and May , in exam halls .
Students will instead be taking their assessments off campus .
The UK 's decision is markedly different to the response of other countries such as Ireland , Lithuania , Slovakia and Denmark , which all recently announced they would be temporarily shutting schools due to the virus outbreak .
This has attracted a mixed reaction - some scientists say the new measures do n't go far enough , while others say a `` balanced '' approach will help keep more people safe .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ by scientists - and at the news conference in Downing Street , he said that current advice suggests closing schools `` could do more harm than good '' .
Schools are being advised to cancel trips abroad , and children are included in the new advice that states anyone with coronavirus symptoms such as a continuous cough or a high temperature must stay at home for seven days - even if the symptoms are mild .
The prime minister added that `` lines of defence '' must be deployed at the right time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most dangerous period still believed to be weeks away .
He explained : `` The most important task will be to protect our elderly and most vulnerable people during the peak weeks when there is the maximum risk of exposure to the disease and when the NHS will be under the most pressure .
`` So the most dangerous period is not now but some weeks away depending on how fast it spreads . ''
Mr Johnson has insisted the measures are right for the present phase of the pandemic .
Keith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of infectious diseases at the University of Nottingham , says closing schools could reduce the number of NHS workers available to fight the virus as people have to look after children .
He also said it could increase the risks for elderly grandparents , who could be asked to step in to help with childcare .
Another risk is that closing schools could lead to the increased movement of children to different places across the UK .
`` Children do not seem to get serious illness with COVID-19 and we do not yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spreading the virus , '' he said .
Mr Neal warned the UK should not be pressured by the actions of other countries , saying : `` Different countries are at different stages of the epidemic so what one country should do will not apply to others , we need to be guided by the local epidemiology and the science .
`` The UK should adopt UK-appropriate measures and not give in to the demand for something to be done otherwise this will result in inappropriate actions at the wrong time . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ say whether the steps taken in Ireland were a `` sensible precaution or an overreaction for the current stage of the epidemic '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Dr Thomas House , an expert in mathematical statistics at the University of Manchester , echoed Mr Neal 's concerns about the risks to grandparents .
`` If the closure is not carefully managed then children may spend more time with , and thereby increase the infection risk of their grandparents , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complications from coronavirus , '' he said .
Dr House said the decision to close schools was `` difficult '' , adding : `` On the one hand , it helps to contain the spread of infection , but on the other it creates wider problems in society , like missing out on education . ''
Jimmy Whitworth , professor of international public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , said he was `` sceptical '' about closing schools .
He said : `` I do n't see any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here , and school closures would cause lots of social disruption .
`` If it was part of a package of reducing gatherings , that would make more sense .
But I would n't target schools particularly . ''
Professor Jonathan Ball , professor of molecular virology at the University of Nottingham , said government advice on self-isolation `` does n't go far enough '' - but did not mention whether schools should close .
He said : `` There is emerging data that suggests that in as many of 70 % of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ similar to a common cold ; and given the high levels of virus replication observed in these patients , it would n't be unreasonable to assume that they can easily transmit the virus .
`` This is serious as it means that based on government advice - which specifies persistent cough and raised temperature - most people who can potentially transmit will not be aware the risk they pose to others and will not self-isolate . ''

Following Boris Johnson's emergency COBRA meeting yesterday, some expected an announcement that UK schools would temporarily close.
But although the prime minister has warned that new measures to delay the coronavirus outbreak will cause "severe disruption across our country for many months", he stressed these restrictions should not be introduced too early.
At present, schools will only close if they are specifically told so - such as if a student or staff member contracts COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
The University of Glasgow has, however, announced it will not hold its exams, scheduled for April and May, in exam halls. Students will instead be taking their assessments off campus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:07 PM defends efficacy of COVID-19 measures
The UK's decision is markedly different to the response of other countries such as Ireland, Lithuania, Slovakia and Denmark, which all recently announced they would be temporarily shutting schools due to the virus outbreak.
This has attracted a mixed reaction - some scientists say the new measures don't go far enough, while others say a "balanced" approach will help keep more people safe.
Mr Johnson says he is being guided by scientists - and at the news conference in Downing Street, he said that current advice suggests closing schools "could do more harm than good".
Schools are being advised to cancel trips abroad, and children are included in the new advice that states anyone with coronavirus symptoms such as a continuous cough or a high temperature must stay at home for seven days - even if the symptoms are mild.
The prime minister added that "lines of defence" must be deployed at the right time to have the full effect, with the most dangerous period still believed to be weeks away.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:16 The misinformation outbreak
He explained: "The most important task will be to protect our elderly and most vulnerable people during the peak weeks when there is the maximum risk of exposure to the disease and when the NHS will be under the most pressure.
"So the most dangerous period is not now but some weeks away depending on how fast it spreads."
Mr Johnson has insisted the measures are right for the present phase of the pandemic.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 How to contain a global pandemic
Keith Neal, emeritus professor of the epidemiology of infectious diseases at the University of Nottingham, says closing schools could reduce the number of NHS workers available to fight the virus as people have to look after children.
He also said it could increase the risks for elderly grandparents, who could be asked to step in to help with childcare.
Another risk is that closing schools could lead to the increased movement of children to different places across the UK.
"Children do not seem to get serious illness with COVID-19 and we do not yet know what role they play in significantly spreading the virus," he said.
Mr Neal warned the UK should not be pressured by the actions of other countries, saying: "Different countries are at different stages of the epidemic so what one country should do will not apply to others, we need to be guided by the local epidemiology and the science.
"The UK should adopt UK-appropriate measures and not give in to the demand for something to be done otherwise this will result in inappropriate actions at the wrong time."
He added it is too soon to say whether the steps taken in Ireland were a "sensible precaution or an overreaction for the current stage of the epidemic".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Dr Thomas House, an expert in mathematical statistics at the University of Manchester, echoed Mr Neal's concerns about the risks to grandparents.
"If the closure is not carefully managed then children may spend more time with, and thereby increase the infection risk of their grandparents, who appear to be more vulnerable to complications from coronavirus," he said.
Dr House said the decision to close schools was "difficult", adding: "On the one hand, it helps to contain the spread of infection, but on the other it creates wider problems in society, like missing out on education."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:48 PM: 'Many more families will lose loved ones'
Jimmy Whitworth, professor of international public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said he was "sceptical" about closing schools.
He said: "I don't see any convincing evidence that children are driving transmission here, and school closures would cause lots of social disruption.
"If it was part of a package of reducing gatherings, that would make more sense. But I wouldn't target schools particularly."
Image: A worker in protective clothing at County Oak Medical Centre in Brighton
Professor Jonathan Ball, professor of molecular virology at the University of Nottingham, said government advice on self-isolation "doesn't go far enough" - but did not mention whether schools should close.
He said: "There is emerging data that suggests that in as many of 70% of cases the infection will present with symptoms similar to a common cold; and given the high levels of virus replication observed in these patients, it wouldn't be unreasonable to assume that they can easily transmit the virus.
"This is serious as it means that based on government advice - which specifies persistent cough and raised temperature - most people who can potentially transmit will not be aware the risk they pose to others and will not self-isolate."


news--2020-03-13--Coronavirus: FTSE fightback falters as weekly losses hit £275bn

A global stock market fightback faltered as London 's FTSE 100 index ended the week down £275bn after suffering its biggest single-day fall since 1987 .
The leading UK index surged more than 7 % during the day , in volatile trading , as investors responded positively to measures being taken by a growing number of governments and central banks to tackle the coronavirus .
Germany 's government said on Friday it would offer unlimited credit to companies affected by the growing disruption .
But the recovery of values , seen across Europe and the US , ebbed during Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the weekend could bring - moved to protect their positions .
The FTSE closed 2.4 % or 128 points higher at 5,366 as the early trading rally petered out .
It meant £32bn in value was clawed back on Friday after the worst session for London 's blue chip stocks since the Black Monday crash on Thursday .
However , it still ended the week with losses of £275bn .
The biggest FTSE risers on Friday were mainly mining companies though some travel stocks continued to drag including those of cruise operator Carnival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Princess Cruises business for the next two months .
PaddyPower and Betfair owner Flutter was also down as football chiefs agreed to cancel all matches until at least 3 April .
Wall Street 's opening saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average rise more than 5 % as the US treasury secretary pledged financial help to affected industries .
Market analysts said the recovery for values was tentative as the clock ticked down to the closure of markets over the weekend .
In a separate development , the London Stock Exchange announced a temporary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a share price will fall - in a number of Spanish and Italian firms , including Fiat Chrysler , Ferrari , De'Longhi and Juventus and Lazio football clubs .
It came after the Italian FTSEMIB benchmark index plunged by an unprecedented 17 % on Thursday .
Meanwhile , Saga has suspended its cruise operations until 1 May in the face of the mounting crisis , at an estimated cost to the company of up to £15m .
The travel and insurance specialist took the decision following updated government guidance advising people aged 70 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conditions against going on cruises .
The company , which predominantly caters for over-50s , said its staff would be in contact with all customers who were due to travel in the next six weeks to refunds or future credit .
`` The health and safety of customers and colleagues is our number one priority , '' Saga said .
`` We have , therefore , made the decision to temporarily suspend operations of our cruises until 1 May 2020 . ''
The company , which operates ocean and river cruises , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cut discretionary spending to offset the impact of the suspension .
Saga had warned earlier this month that it was seeing a higher level of near-term cancellations for its cruises and tours due to the epidemic .
Meanwhile , Sir Richard Branson announced the inaugural season of his new Virgin Voyages cruise line was also being postponed due to the outbreak .
In response to the growing outbreak , easyJet has announced it will waive flight change fees , for customers wanting to change their travel plans .
The firm said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ implemented as a result of COVID-19 , we understand the uncertainty many customers may be facing and so any easyJet customers who wish to change their travel plans can now transfer their flights to alternative dates and/or an alternative destination without a change fee .
`` This applies to both existing and new bookings until further notice . ''
Elsewhere , Morrisons has become the first major UK supermarket to agree to pay all small suppliers immediately to ensure businesses do not collapse due to coronavirus .
Bosses at the grocer said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ classifies `` small suppliers '' to any firm with an annual turnover of under £1m , compared with £100,000 previously .
Chief executive David Potts said : `` We are Britain 's biggest single food-maker and we want to be there for the smaller food-makers , farmers and businesses that supply Morrisons .
`` We 're a British family business and we will be doing our best to support them through this challenging period . ''

A global stock market fightback faltered as London's FTSE 100 index ended the week down £275bn after suffering its biggest single-day fall since 1987.
The leading UK index surged more than 7% during the day, in volatile trading, as investors responded positively to measures being taken by a growing number of governments and central banks to tackle the coronavirus.
Image: The market meltdown is reflected in the FTSE's fortunes since the start of the year
Germany's government said on Friday it would offer unlimited credit to companies affected by the growing disruption.
But the recovery of values, seen across Europe and the US, ebbed during Friday afternoon as investors - nervous about what the weekend could bring - moved to protect their positions.
The FTSE closed 2.4% or 128 points higher at 5,366 as the early trading rally petered out.
It meant £32bn in value was clawed back on Friday after the worst session for London's blue chip stocks since the Black Monday crash on Thursday.
However, it still ended the week with losses of £275bn.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:16 Coronavirus: Financial system 'part of solution'
The biggest FTSE risers on Friday were mainly mining companies though some travel stocks continued to drag including those of cruise operator Carnival, which announced it would suspend its Princess Cruises business for the next two months.
PaddyPower and Betfair owner Flutter was also down as football chiefs agreed to cancel all matches until at least 3 April.
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Wall Street's opening saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average rise more than 5% as the US treasury secretary pledged financial help to affected industries.
Market analysts said the recovery for values was tentative as the clock ticked down to the closure of markets over the weekend.
In a separate development, the London Stock Exchange announced a temporary ban on short-selling - or betting that a share price will fall - in a number of Spanish and Italian firms, including Fiat Chrysler, Ferrari, De'Longhi and Juventus and Lazio football clubs.
It came after the Italian FTSEMIB benchmark index plunged by an unprecedented 17% on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Saga has suspended its cruise operations until 1 May in the face of the mounting crisis, at an estimated cost to the company of up to £15m.
The travel and insurance specialist took the decision following updated government guidance advising people aged 70 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions against going on cruises.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Trump's new anti-coronavirus measures
The company, which predominantly caters for over-50s, said its staff would be in contact with all customers who were due to travel in the next six weeks to refunds or future credit.
"The health and safety of customers and colleagues is our number one priority," Saga said.
"We have, therefore, made the decision to temporarily suspend operations of our cruises until 1 May 2020."
The company, which operates ocean and river cruises, said it would seek additional cost savings and cut discretionary spending to offset the impact of the suspension.
Saga had warned earlier this month that it was seeing a higher level of near-term cancellations for its cruises and
tours due to the epidemic.
Meanwhile, Sir Richard Branson announced the inaugural season of his new Virgin Voyages cruise line was also being postponed due to the outbreak.
In response to the growing outbreak, easyJet has announced it will waive flight change fees, for customers wanting to change their travel plans.
The firm said: "Due to the ongoing travel restrictions being implemented as a result of COVID-19, we understand the uncertainty many customers may be facing and so any easyJet customers who wish to change their travel plans can now transfer their flights to alternative dates and/or an alternative destination without a change fee.
"This applies to both existing and new bookings until further notice."
Elsewhere, Morrisons has become the first major UK supermarket to agree to pay all small suppliers immediately to ensure businesses do not collapse due to coronavirus.
Bosses at the grocer said it would also temporarily change the way it classifies "small suppliers" to any firm with an annual turnover of under £1m, compared with £100,000 previously.
Chief executive David Potts said: "We are Britain's biggest single food-maker and we want to be there for the smaller food-makers, farmers and businesses that supply Morrisons.
"We're a British family business and we will be doing our best to support them through this challenging period."


news--2020-03-13--Coronavirus: What is herd immunity? And how will it help prevent spread of COVID-19?

Around 60 % of the population will need to contract coronavirus in order for the UK to enjoy `` herd immunity '' , the government 's chief scientific adviser has told Sky News .
But what does that mean ?
The `` Vaccine Knowledge Project '' at Oxford University describes herd immunity as when it is difficult for infectious diseases to spread , because a high percentage of the population is vaccinated .
This is because there are not many people who can be infected , meaning protection is given to vulnerable people such as newborn babies , elderly people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be vaccinated .
But there is no vaccine for coronavirus ?
Sir Patrick Vallance , the government 's chief scientific adviser , has said a working coronavirus vaccine will not be produced in time for the current outbreak .
Therefore , in the absence of a mass vaccinations programme , for the UK population to gain herd immunity a large enough number of people will need to contract the virus and then recover .
They should then be much less likely to get the virus - and less likely to spread it - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be described as `` nature 's vaccine '' .
At the moment , each person who catches coronavirus is likely to pass it on to between 2.4 and three people .
Most people will only experience a `` mild '' illness from COVID-19 , according to Sir Patrick .
He has estimated around 60 % of the UK 's population of 66.4 million will need to become infected with coronavirus for herd immunity to be achieved .
That means around 40 million people will need to catch it .
The available evidence suggests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of them would have mild symptoms ; but around eight million people could become severe or critical cases and need treatment in hospital .
• Mass gatherings in the UK will be banned from next week under plans being drawn up by ministers • The London Marathon is among a number of sporting events cancelled • Anyone entering New Zealand will have to self-isolate for 14 days • US President Donald Trump has declared the outbreak a national emergency • More than 145,000 cases and almost 5,500 deaths have been declared worldwide , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recorded 250 cases in a day , bringing its total to almost 18,000 How does herd immunity help ?
The key benefit of herd immunity is that it reduces the spread of a virus .
Therefore , those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19 - such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions - can be isolated from the risk of the disease during the peak of the coronavirus outbreak .
Then , when the spread of the virus reduces and herd immunity is achieved , those isolation measures can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most vulnerable in the short-term - while the rest of the population build up immunity and , subsequently , the spread of the virus slows - should mean they will be much less likely to contract COVID-19 in the long-term .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Sir Patrick has also suggested coronavirus could become a `` seasonal virus '' and `` is likely to be one that comes year on year '' .
Herd immunity should help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the future .
However , it is not currently known how long it will take for 60 % of the population to be infected , as that figure has n't yet been reached in any country .
Should we rely on herd immunity to tackle the virus ?
Some have criticised the government 's strategy in dealing with the UK 's outbreak .
Dr Adam Kucharski , infectious disease epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , said he is `` deeply uncomfortable with the message that [ the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' as the main COVID-19 strategy '' .
He says herd immunity should not be the `` outright aim '' and instead we should be trying to reduce the impact on the UK as much as we can .
`` Having large numbers infected is n't the aim here , even if it may be the outcome , '' Dr Kucharski wrote on Twitter .
He continued : `` A lot of modellers around the world are working flat out to find best way to minimise impact on population and healthcare .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ herd immunity , but this is merely a consequence of a very tough option - albeit one that may help prevent another outbreak . ''
There is also the possibility that the population 's immunity could wane over time .
Professor Mark Jit , another epidemiologist from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , previously told Sky News that as more people are born , there will be more people who have not got immunity .
The virus could also mutate `` very quickly to evade immunity '' - but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to whether this would happen , Prof Jit said .

Around 60% of the population will need to contract coronavirus in order for the UK to enjoy "herd immunity", the government's chief scientific adviser has told Sky News. But what does that mean?
What is herd immunity?
The "Vaccine Knowledge Project" at Oxford University describes herd immunity as when it is difficult for infectious diseases to spread, because a high percentage of the population is vaccinated.
This is because there are not many people who can be infected, meaning protection is given to vulnerable people such as newborn babies, elderly people and those who are too sick to be vaccinated.
But there is no vaccine for coronavirus?
Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's chief scientific adviser, has said a working coronavirus vaccine will not be produced in time for the current outbreak.
Therefore, in the absence of a mass vaccinations programme, for the UK population to gain herd immunity a large enough number of people will need to contract the virus and then recover.
They should then be much less likely to get the virus - and less likely to spread it - than they were before.
This can be described as "nature's vaccine".
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At the moment, each person who catches coronavirus is likely to pass it on to between 2.4 and three people.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 'I speak scientific truth to power'
Most people will only experience a "mild" illness from COVID-19, according to Sir Patrick.
He has estimated around 60% of the UK's population of 66.4 million will need to become infected with coronavirus for herd immunity to be achieved.
That means around 40 million people will need to catch it.
The available evidence suggests 32 million, or 80%, of them would have mild symptoms; but around eight million people could become severe or critical cases and need treatment in hospital.
Key Points
Mass gatherings in the UK will be banned from next week under plans being drawn up by ministers
in the UK will be banned from next week under plans being drawn up by ministers The London Marathon is among a number of sporting events cancelled
is among a number of sporting events cancelled Anyone entering New Zealand will have to self-isolate for 14 days
will have to self-isolate for 14 days US President Donald Trump has declared the outbreak a national emergency
has declared the outbreak a More than 145,000 cases and almost 5,500 deaths have been declared worldwide, according to Johns Hopkins University
Italy recorded 250 cases in a day, bringing its total to almost 18,000
How does herd immunity help?
The key benefit of herd immunity is that it reduces the spread of a virus.
Therefore, those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19 - such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions - can be isolated from the risk of the disease during the peak of the coronavirus outbreak.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 How to contain a global pandemic
Then, when the spread of the virus reduces and herd immunity is achieved, those isolation measures can be removed.
Simply put, isolating the most vulnerable in the short-term - while the rest of the population build up immunity and, subsequently, the spread of the virus slows - should mean they will be much less likely to contract COVID-19 in the long-term.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Sir Patrick has also suggested coronavirus could become a "seasonal virus" and "is likely to be one that comes year on year".
Herd immunity should help prevent coronavirus having such a big impact in the future.
However, it is not currently known how long it will take for 60% of the population to be infected, as that figure hasn't yet been reached in any country.
Should we rely on herd immunity to tackle the virus?
Some have criticised the government's strategy in dealing with the UK's outbreak.
Dr Adam Kucharski, infectious disease epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said he is "deeply uncomfortable with the message that [the] UK is actively pursuing 'herd immunity' as the main COVID-19 strategy".
He says herd immunity should not be the "outright aim" and instead we should be trying to reduce the impact on the UK as much as we can.
"Having large numbers infected isn't the aim here, even if it may be the outcome," Dr Kucharski wrote on Twitter.
He continued: "A lot of modellers around the world are working flat out to find best way to minimise impact on population and healthcare.
"A side effect may end up being herd immunity, but this is merely a consequence of a very tough option - albeit one that may help prevent another outbreak."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 What is herd immunity?
There is also the possibility that the population's immunity could wane over time.
Professor Mark Jit, another epidemiologist from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, previously told Sky News that as more people are born, there will be more people who have not got immunity.
The virus could also mutate "very quickly to evade immunity" - but it is an "open question" as to whether this would happen, Prof Jit said.


news--2020-03-13--Coronavirus: Donald Trump says 'large scale' testing will take place in US

Donald Trump has said coronavirus testing in the US will soon happen on a large scale as the country looks to slow the spread of COVID-19 .
The president did not provide any further details on how large-scale testing would take place but tweeted : `` For decades the @ CDCgov [ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ] looked at , and studied , its testing system , but did nothing about it .
`` It would always be inadequate and slow for a large scale pandemic , but a pandemic would never happen , they hoped .
President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further ... .. '' Their response to H1N1 Swine Flu was a full scale disaster , with thousands dying , and nothing meaningful done to fix the testing problem , until now .
The changes have been made and testing will soon happen on a very large scale basis .
All Red Tape has been cut , ready to go ! ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker It comes after the US , which has more than 1,700 confirmed cases of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Europe to the US for 30 days .
Mr Trump is also reportedly `` very concerned '' about coming into contact with people who have contracted coronavirus .
According to CNN , the US president is worried about having exposure to anyone later diagnosed with COVID-19 .
Last weekend , Mr Trump was pictured standing shoulder to shoulder with Fabio Wajngarten , who serves as communications chief for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro .
Days later , Mr Wajngarten confirmed he had tested positive for the coronavirus - prompting Mr Trump to insist that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reporters at the White House , the US president had said : `` We had dinner in Florida at Mar-a-Lago with the entire delegation , but we did nothing very unusual .
`` We sat next to each other for a period of time .
I am not concerned . ''
Contradicting Mr Trump 's public remarks , a source told CNN : `` He is very concerned about all the people he met who have it , including the Brazilian . ''
This is the first time that someone known to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US president , and the White House says the 73-year-old president does not plan to self-isolate or be tested .
Meanwhile , Australia 's home affairs minister Peter Dutton - who has tested positive for coronavirus - met with the president 's daughter Ivanka Trump and attorney general William Barr last week .
Elsewhere , Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that he will stay in isolation for two weeks after his wife Sophie tested positive for the coronavirus .
In a statement , Mrs Trudeau said she was `` experiencing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be `` back on my feet soon '' .

Donald Trump has said coronavirus testing in the US will soon happen on a large scale as the country looks to slow the spread of COVID-19.
The president did not provide any further details on how large-scale testing would take place but tweeted: "For decades the @CDCgov [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] looked at, and studied, its testing system, but did nothing about it.
"It would always be inadequate and slow for a large scale pandemic, but a pandemic would never happen, they hoped. President Obama made changes that only complicated things further.....
"Their response to H1N1 Swine Flu was a full scale disaster, with thousands dying, and nothing meaningful done to fix the testing problem, until now. The changes have been made and testing will soon happen on a very large scale basis. All Red Tape has been cut, ready to go!"
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
It comes after the US, which has more than 1,700 confirmed cases of COVID-19, suspended all flights from mainland Europe to the US for 30 days.
Mr Trump is also reportedly "very concerned" about coming into contact with people who have contracted coronavirus.
According to CNN, the US president is worried about having exposure to anyone later diagnosed with COVID-19.
Image: Donald Trump was pictured with Fabio Wajngarten (right) who later tested positive for coronavirus. Pic: Instagram
Last weekend, Mr Trump was pictured standing shoulder to shoulder with Fabio Wajngarten, who serves as communications chief for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.
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Days later, Mr Wajngarten confirmed he had tested positive for the coronavirus - prompting Mr Trump to insist that he was not concerned.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, the US president had said: "We had dinner in Florida at Mar-a-Lago with the entire delegation, but we did nothing very unusual.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:30 COVID-19: The Scientific Advice
"We sat next to each other for a period of time. I am not concerned."
Contradicting Mr Trump's public remarks, a source told CNN: "He is very concerned about all the people he met who have it, including the Brazilian."
This is the first time that someone known to have the virus was in close proximity to the US president, and the White House says the 73-year-old president does not plan to self-isolate or be tested.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Trump's new anti-coronavirus measures
Meanwhile, Australia's home affairs minister Peter Dutton - who has tested positive for coronavirus - met with the president's daughter Ivanka Trump and attorney general William Barr last week.
Elsewhere, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that he will stay in isolation for two weeks after his wife Sophie tested positive for the coronavirus.
In a statement, Mrs Trudeau said she was "experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of the virus" but will be "back on my feet soon".


news--2020-03-16--Heathrow CEO forgoes pay amid coronavirus crisis

Heathrow Airport 's boss is to forgo his salary for the next three months as Britain 's busiest passenger hub tries to navigate the crisis which threatens to bring the global aviation industry to its knees .
Sky News has learnt that John Holland-Kaye , Heathrow 's chief executive , is to work without pay until June - the latest in a string of aviation bosses who have agreed to cut or waive salaries as the coronavirus hammers air travel .
The move means that Mr Holland-Kaye will not receive more than £185,000 of his £751,000 annual basic pay .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ move on Monday , adding that Mr Holland-Kaye 's senior executive team had agreed to forfeit a month 's salary .
Mr Holland-Kaye 's gesture has emerged days after Heathrow reported a near-5 % fall in passenger traffic in February .
Steeper year-on-year falls are anticipated this month , as an increasing number of governments ban inbound international flights and airlines ground vast proportions of their fleets in response .
Heathrow , which has also implemented a recruitment freeze during the crisis , has agreed to waive parking fees to allow airlines to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the duration of the crisis .
On Monday , Britain 's biggest carriers all announced steep capacity and job cuts as they face their gravest crisis for years - or , according to many analysts , the most serious in the industry 's history .
British Airways is expected to make public details of flight cuts and a first wave of redundancies as soon as Monday afternoon , according to insiders .
Its parent company , International Airlines Group ( IAG ) , told the London Stock Exchange that it would reduce capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and reduce other operating expenses .
The company added , however , that its balance sheet boasted total liquidity of more than €9bn , placing it among the world 's financially strongest airline groups .
Rival Virgin Atlantic announced that it would ground 80 % of its flights before the end of the month , and that staff would be asked to take eight weeks ' unpaid leave .
BA and Virgin depend to a significant extent on their transatlantic traffic , meaning that many of their routes will be inoperable until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the UK that comes into effect on Tuesday .
Sky News revealed at the weekend that Peter Norris , chairman of Virgin Atlantic Airways ' majority shareholder , Virgin Group , was writing to the prime minister to warn that the airline industry needs immediate financial aid to survive .
Insiders said Mr Norris 's letter - which is also understood to be being signed by Shai Weiss , Virgin Atlantic 's chief executive - would ask the government to provide airlines with a credit facility to help them finance themselves through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That support , which the Virgin chairman estimates would be worth between £5bn and £7.5bn across the industry , would include cash advances and guarantees , as well as other measures to ensure that credit card companies do not continue to hoard revenue from airline bookings .
Under Mr Norris 's blueprint , this emergency financing would be repaid once trading returns to more normal levels .
One source close to the airline , which was founded by Sir Richard Branson in 1984 , said that Mr Norris would also ask the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airlines to keep planes grounded without losing their prized take-off and landing slots for the entire summer season .
The latter request is significant because it reflects the growing belief among aviation bosses that the sector may not begin to stage a recovery until the autumn .
If those fears are realised , it will have a substantial impact on Heathrow 's revenues , with the airport also facing a reduction in turnover from the shops and restaurants which trade there .
EasyJet and Ryanair also announced big capacity cuts on Monday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fleet is on the verge of being grounded .

Heathrow Airport's boss is to forgo his salary for the next three months as Britain's busiest passenger hub tries to navigate the crisis which threatens to bring the global aviation industry to its knees.
Sky News has learnt that John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow's chief executive, is to work without pay until June - the latest in a string of aviation bosses who have agreed to cut or waive salaries as the coronavirus hammers air travel.
The move means that Mr Holland-Kaye will not receive more than £185,000 of his £751,000 annual basic pay.
A source close to Heathrow confirmed the move on Monday, adding that Mr Holland-Kaye's senior executive team had agreed to forfeit a month's salary.
Mr Holland-Kaye's gesture has emerged days after Heathrow reported a near-5% fall in passenger traffic in February.
Steeper year-on-year falls are anticipated this month, as an increasing number of governments ban inbound international flights and airlines ground vast proportions of their fleets in response.
Heathrow, which has also implemented a recruitment freeze during the crisis, has agreed to waive parking fees to allow airlines to hold grounded aircraft at the airport for the duration of the crisis.
On Monday, Britain's biggest carriers all announced steep capacity and job cuts as they face their gravest crisis for years - or, according to many analysts, the most serious in the industry's history.
British Airways is expected to make public details of flight cuts and a first wave of redundancies as soon as Monday afternoon, according to insiders.
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Image: Heathrow is the UK's biggest airport
Its parent company, International Airlines Group (IAG), told the London Stock Exchange that it would reduce capacity in April and May by 75%, and reduce other operating expenses.
The company added, however, that its balance sheet boasted total liquidity of more than €9bn, placing it among the world's financially strongest airline groups.
Rival Virgin Atlantic announced that it would ground 80% of its flights before the end of the month, and that staff would be asked to take eight weeks' unpaid leave.
BA and Virgin depend to a significant extent on their transatlantic traffic, meaning that many of their routes will be inoperable until after the US lifts the travel embargo from the UK that comes into effect on Tuesday.
Sky News revealed at the weekend that Peter Norris, chairman of Virgin Atlantic Airways' majority shareholder, Virgin Group, was writing to the prime minister to warn that the airline industry needs immediate financial aid to survive.
Insiders said Mr Norris's letter - which is also understood to be being signed by Shai Weiss, Virgin Atlantic's chief executive - would ask the government to provide airlines with a credit facility to help them finance themselves through a potentially protracted period of negligible revenue.
That support, which the Virgin chairman estimates would be worth between £5bn and £7.5bn across the industry, would include cash advances and guarantees, as well as other measures to ensure that credit card companies do not continue to hoard revenue from airline bookings.
Under Mr Norris's blueprint, this emergency financing would be repaid once trading returns to more normal levels.
One source close to the airline, which was founded by Sir Richard Branson in 1984, said that Mr Norris would also ask the PM to extend the timetable for allowing airlines to keep planes grounded without losing their prized take-off and landing slots for the entire summer season.
The latter request is significant because it reflects the growing belief among aviation bosses that the sector may not begin to stage a recovery until the autumn.
If those fears are realised, it will have a substantial impact on Heathrow's revenues, with the airport also facing a reduction in turnover from the shops and restaurants which trade there.
EasyJet and Ryanair also announced big capacity cuts on Monday, with the latter indicating that its entire fleet is on the verge of being grounded.


news--2020-03-16--Shares in Primark owner suspended after closures announced

Shares in the owner of Primark were briefly suspended after the company announced the temporary closure of stores due to coronavirus .
Trading in Associated British Foods shares was suspended at 9am after they inexplicably fell by 100 % to 0.01p , something analysts said could have been because a trader hit the wrong button on their computer .
Shares are usually suspended when there is a rush of trades in one company .
It came after news that the business had closed a fifth of its Primark stores , which make up a third of its sales .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Italy and Austria and have been closed as governments in those countries have placed restrictions on non-essential stores to stop the spread of coronavirus among populations .
ABF said : `` These stores currently generate 30 % of Primark 's sales .
From the date of this announcement , we had expected sales of £190m from these stores over the next four weeks .
`` The remainder of the estate , including the UK which represents 41 % of sales , has seen like-for-like sales decline over the last two weeks and these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a result of reduced footfall .
`` We are managing the business appropriately but do not expect to significantly mitigate the effect of the contribution lost from these sales . ''
On the bright side , however , the company said most of its suppliers in China had reopened factories there as the virus situation has improved .
The virus originated in China late last year and the country has had the majority of infections and deaths since then .
ABF said that , due to the effect of COVID-19 on Primark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earnings guidance for the rest of the financial year but an update would be given on 21 April .
The company added that it has `` a strong balance sheet , substantial cash liquidity with some £800m of net cash at the half year and significant undrawn bank facilities '' .
Shares in ABF were trading again shortly after 10am and were down by 13 % by 11.30am and ended the day 5.2 % lower .

Shares in the owner of Primark were briefly suspended after the company announced the temporary closure of stores due to coronavirus.
Trading in Associated British Foods shares was suspended at 9am after they inexplicably fell by 100% to 0.01p, something analysts said could have been because a trader hit the wrong button on their computer.
Shares are usually suspended when there is a rush of trades in one company.
It came after news that the business had closed a fifth of its Primark stores, which make up a third of its sales.
The stores are in France, Spain, Italy and Austria and have been closed as governments in those countries have placed restrictions on non-essential stores to stop the spread of coronavirus among populations.
ABF said: "These stores currently generate 30% of Primark's sales. From the date of this announcement, we had expected sales of £190m from these stores over the next four weeks.
"The remainder of the estate, including the UK which represents 41% of sales, has seen like-for-like sales decline over the last two weeks and these have accelerated over the past few days as a result of reduced footfall.
"We are managing the business appropriately but do not expect to significantly mitigate the effect of the contribution lost from these sales."
On the bright side, however, the company said most of its suppliers in China had reopened factories there as the virus situation has improved.
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The virus originated in China late last year and the country has had the majority of infections and deaths since then.
ABF said that, due to the effect of COVID-19 on Primark's sales, it could not give earnings guidance for the rest of the financial year but an update would be given on 21 April.
The company added that it has "a strong balance sheet, substantial cash liquidity with some £800m of net cash at the half year and significant undrawn bank facilities".
Shares in ABF were trading again shortly after 10am and were down by 13% by 11.30am and ended the day 5.2% lower.


news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Who are Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance?

Two men have become a regular feature of the coronavirus crisis - flanking Prime Minister Boris Johnson as he delivers tough news to the nation .
Professor Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance were parachuted from behind-the-scenes advisory roles into the public eye in front of the TV cameras - proving that it 's the experts who are leading Britain 's response to a global pandemic .
So who are they ?
Right at the top of the tree of all science advisers is Professor Chris Whitty .
He is simultaneously England 's chief medical officer and the UK department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luckily he is an epidemiologist - meaning his specialty is diseases .
Prof Whitty also has experience tackling a virus , having played a leading role advising on the UK response to the Ebola epidemic in 2014 as chief scientific adviser to the Department for International Development .
His career in Whitehall has spanned 11 years ; he was previously interim chief scientific adviser to the UK government and got his current job in June 2019 .
Outside politics , he 's a practicing consultant physician at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The other familiar face at the recent Downing Street news conference is Sir Patrick Vallance .
He 's the UK government 's chief scientific adviser - providing whatever is needed directly to the prime minister and cabinet .
His specialty is diseases in blood vessels and the biology of cells that line the interior surface of them .
Before joining Whitehall , Sir Patrick was president of research and development at pharmaceutical multinational GlaxoSmithKline from 2012-17 , during which over 14 new medicines were approved for use worldwide for diseases ranging from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's also a professor - and has led the division of medicine at UCL .

Two men have become a regular feature of the coronavirus crisis - flanking Prime Minister Boris Johnson as he delivers tough news to the nation.
Professor Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance were parachuted from behind-the-scenes advisory roles into the public eye in front of the TV cameras - proving that it's the experts who are leading Britain's response to a global pandemic.
So who are they?
Professor Chris Whitty
Image: Prof Whitty also works at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases
Right at the top of the tree of all science advisers is Professor Chris Whitty.
He is simultaneously England's chief medical officer and the UK department of health's top scientific adviser.
Luckily he is an epidemiologist - meaning his specialty is diseases.
Prof Whitty also has experience tackling a virus, having played a leading role advising on the UK response to the Ebola epidemic in 2014 as chief scientific adviser to the Department for International Development.
His career in Whitehall has spanned 11 years; he was previously interim chief scientific adviser to the UK government and got his current job in June 2019.
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Outside politics, he's a practicing consultant physician at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases and University College London (UCL) Hospitals.
Sir Patrick Vallance
Image: Sir Patrick Vallance is a former president of GlaxoSmithKline
The other familiar face at the recent Downing Street news conference is Sir Patrick Vallance.
He's the UK government's chief scientific adviser - providing whatever is needed directly to the prime minister and cabinet.
His specialty is diseases in blood vessels and the biology of cells that line the interior surface of them.
Before joining Whitehall, Sir Patrick was president of research and development at pharmaceutical multinational GlaxoSmithKline from 2012-17, during which over 14 new medicines were approved for use worldwide for diseases ranging from cancer to asthma and HIV.
He's also a professor - and has led the division of medicine at UCL.


news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Bond girl Olga Kurylenko tests positive for COVID-19

The Ukrainian-born French actress posted a message on Instagram urging fans to take the illness seriously .
Along with a picture looking out of a window on to a rain-splashed courtyard , she wrote : `` Locked up at home after having tested positive for coronavirus .
`` I 've actually been ill for almost a week now .
Fever and fatigue are my main symptoms .
Take care of yourself and do take this seriously ! ''
The 40-year-old actress also wrote her message in Ukrainian for her 574,000 followers .
Fifth element star Milla Jovovich was among the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Oh my god , feel better lady !
We 're praying for you ! ''
.
Kurylenko is best known for playing Bolivian intelligence agent Camille Montes opposite Daniel Craig 's 007 in 2008 Bond movie Quantum Of Solace .
She also starred in Oblivion with Tom Cruise and Rowan Atkinson in Johnny English Strikes Again .
Just last week it was announced that the latest Bond film No Time To Die would be pushed back for seven months due to coronavirus .
The 25th Bond film , which will feature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 007 , was set to be released in UK cinemas from 2 April this year .
It will now be released in the UK on 12 November and the US on 25 November .
The delay is the latest in a string of major events being cancelled or postponed around the world .
The London Marathon , Californian music festival Coachella and concerts around the world including BTS , Stormzy and Rage Against The Machine have all been postponed in a bid to prevent the spread of the virus .
Stars including Tom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both tested positive for coronavirus .

Bond girl Olga Kurylenko has tested positive for coronavirus.
The Ukrainian-born French actress posted a message on Instagram urging fans to take the illness seriously.
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Along with a picture looking out of a window on to a rain-splashed courtyard, she wrote: "Locked up at home after having tested positive for coronavirus.
"I've actually been ill for almost a week now. Fever and fatigue are my main symptoms. Take care of yourself and do take this seriously!"
The 40-year-old actress also wrote her message in Ukrainian for her 574,000 followers.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:51 How coronavirus has spread
Fifth element star Milla Jovovich was among the stars to offer their support, writing: "Oh my god, feel better lady! We're praying for you!".
Kurylenko is best known for playing Bolivian intelligence agent Camille Montes opposite Daniel Craig's 007 in 2008 Bond movie Quantum Of Solace.
She also starred in Oblivion with Tom Cruise and Rowan Atkinson in Johnny English Strikes Again.
Just last week it was announced that the latest Bond film No Time To Die would be pushed back for seven months due to coronavirus.
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Image: No Time To Die has been delayed due to the virus. Pic. Universal Pictures
The 25th Bond film, which will feature Daniel Craig in his final outing as 007, was set to be released in UK cinemas from 2 April this year.
It will now be released in the UK on 12 November and the US on 25 November.
The delay is the latest in a string of major events being cancelled or postponed around the world.
The London Marathon, Californian music festival Coachella and concerts around the world including BTS, Stormzy and Rage Against The Machine have all been postponed in a bid to prevent the spread of the virus.
Stars including Tom Hanks and his wife Rita have also both tested positive for coronavirus.


news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Should stock markets be shut down until the crisis eases?

Coronavirus : Should stock markets be shut down until the crisis eases ?
Coronavirus : Should stock markets be shut down until the crisis eases ?
On the face of it , shutting down the stock markets has attractions With each passing day in the coronavirus crisis , as stock markets appear to fall incessantly , it is increasingly being asked whether it would not be better for them to close .
On the face of it , the idea has attractions .
Circuit breakers kick in when , for example , major stock indices like the Dow Jones Industrial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall below a certain level .
These temporarily suspend trading in order to dampen volatility and prevent panic selling .
The length of the suspension will depend on the extent of the fall .
A `` level one '' fall or `` level two '' fall on the New York Stock Exchange , respectively a 7 % or 13 % drop in an index , will see trading halted for a quarter of an hour .
A so-called `` level three '' fall , which is one of 20 % or more , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the session .
Meanwhile , trading can be suspended in individual securities , for example - in the words of the Financial Conduct Authority - where a company is unable to `` assess accurately its financial position and inform the market accordingly '' .
A good example here is NMC Healthcare , until recently a member of the FTSE 100 , whose shares were suspended on 27 February after its financial position became uncertain .
Why not then , it is argued , would the market authorities not countenance a suspension in trading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevent the continued erosion in confidence caused by these corrosive falls .
This idea is gaining currency among some market participants .
Bill O'Donnell , US rates desk chief strategist at banking giant Citi , told clients in a note today : `` One might not be faulted to assume that a next major step might be to shut the stock markets to prevent a further , self-fuelling sell-off . ''
There are good reasons , however , why such a suspension would not necessarily make sense .
The first is the sheer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each other across different types of financial security and across different types of time zone .
For example , shares of BHP and Rio Tinto , two of the world 's biggest mining companies , are listed in both London and Sydney and are constituents of both the FTSE 100 and its Australian counterpart , the ASX 200 .
Trading in shares of such companies would need to be suspended in both markets otherwise investors in either London or Sydney would be put at a disadvantage if one market were to close and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trading in the derivatives of those companies , for example a futures or options contract in the shares of those companies , would also need to be suspended in both locations .
Similarly , markets such as the cash equities and the futures markets are highly interconnected .
It would make little sense to close one and not the other .
That interconnectedness operates across all financial asset classes and across all time zones .
So any suspension of stock markets would have to involve a co-ordinated global response , involving derivatives markets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As Michael Hewson of CMC Markets , told Sky News : `` It would be highly unusual for that to happen and it could cause unintended consequences all by itself - which markets do you shut down , do you just shut the stock market , do you shut credit markets ? ''
He pointed out that , despite the volatility of the financial crisis in 2008 , markets continued functioning .
Another reason not to close markets is because it would prevent their basic function .
Adena Friedman , president and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` In our view it is critically important that the markets continue to operate and that investors continue to be able express themselves in the markets .
`` Even last Thursday , during the very challenging markets we experienced , we did have a small healthcare company go public .
`` It is important to remember that markets exist to give companies access to capital , particularly companies working with this virus .
`` Having access to capital on a ready basis is critically important to companies to fund their operations - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open during this process . ''
That is not to say markets can not be shut down entirely .
The US markets , for example , were closed for four days following the terror attacks of 11 September 2001 .
The most recent example is how , on 29 and 30 October 2012 , US markets were closed after Hurricane Sandy battered New York and the US east coast .
The New York Stock Exchange , which unlike the London Stock Exchange still has a physical trading floor , announced its closure due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its headquarters on Wall Street in Lower Manhattan .
The NYSE is an unusual case because it still has physical trading and , at the time , there was a discussion about moving to purely electronic trading - but market participants were lacking in confidence in the systems .
Such closures seem unlikely this time around .
Stacey Cunningham , president of the NYSE , tweeted this afternoon : `` It is important for the markets to remain open , and for them to function in a fair and orderly manner , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are deeply conscious of , and sympathetic to , investors ' concerns around price declines , the market is a reflection of the larger uncertainties that everyone is experiencing during these challenging days .
`` Closing the markets would not change the underlying causes of the market decline , would remove transparency into investor sentiment , and reduce investors ' access to their money .
This would only further compound the current market anxiety . ''
It seems , then , that the only thing likely to result in the closure of markets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the markets - and most specifically in the infrastructure , such as the exchanges and the clearing houses - succumb to coronavirus themselves .

Sky's Ian King examines whether it might be best to shut financial markets down as the world focuses on combating COVID-19.
Coronavirus: Should stock markets be shut down until the crisis eases?
On the face of it, shutting down the stock markets has attractions
With each passing day in the coronavirus crisis, as stock markets appear to fall incessantly, it is increasingly being asked whether it would not be better for them to close.
On the face of it, the idea has attractions.
Circuit breakers kick in when, for example, major stock indices like the Dow Jones Industrial Average or the S&P 500 fall below a certain level. These temporarily suspend trading in order to dampen volatility and prevent panic selling.
Image: Rio Tinto is among FTSE 100 constituents with a dual listing
The length of the suspension will depend on the extent of the fall. A "level one" fall or "level two" fall on the New York Stock Exchange, respectively a 7% or 13% drop in an index, will see trading halted for a quarter of an hour.
A so-called "level three" fall, which is one of 20% or more, sees trading suspended for the rest of the session.
Meanwhile, trading can be suspended in individual securities, for example - in the words of the Financial Conduct Authority - where a company is unable to "assess accurately its financial position and inform the market accordingly".
A good example here is NMC Healthcare, until recently a member of the FTSE 100, whose shares were suspended on 27 February after its financial position became uncertain.
Why not then, it is argued, would the market authorities not countenance a suspension in trading? Such a suspension might in theory prevent the continued erosion in confidence caused by these corrosive falls.
This idea is gaining currency among some market participants.
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Bill O'Donnell, US rates desk chief strategist at banking giant Citi, told clients in a note today: "One might not be faulted to assume that a next major step might be to shut the stock markets to prevent a further, self-fuelling sell-off."
There are good reasons, however, why such a suspension would not necessarily make sense.
The first is the sheer interconnectedness of markets - they interconnect with each other across different types of financial security and across different types of time zone.
For example, shares of BHP and Rio Tinto, two of the world's biggest mining companies, are listed in both London and Sydney and are constituents of both the FTSE 100 and its Australian counterpart, the ASX 200. Trading in shares of such companies would need to be suspended in both markets otherwise investors in either London or Sydney would be put at a disadvantage if one market were to close and the other were to remain open.
Trading in the derivatives of those companies, for example a futures or options contract in the shares of those companies, would also need to be suspended in both locations.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:42 How virus share price crash compares to 2008
Similarly, markets such as the cash equities and the futures markets are highly interconnected. It would make little sense to close one and not the other.
That interconnectedness operates across all financial asset classes and across all time zones.
So any suspension of stock markets would have to involve a co-ordinated global response, involving derivatives markets, or things could become very untidy.
As Michael Hewson of CMC Markets, told Sky News: "It would be highly unusual for that to happen and it could cause unintended consequences all by itself - which markets do you shut down, do you just shut the stock market, do you shut credit markets?"
He pointed out that, despite the volatility of the financial crisis in 2008, markets continued functioning.
Another reason not to close markets is because it would prevent their basic function.
Adena Friedman, president and chief executive of Nasdaq, told CNBC: "In our view it is critically important that the markets continue to operate and that investors continue to be able express themselves in the markets.
"Even last Thursday, during the very challenging markets we experienced, we did have a small healthcare company go public.
"It is important to remember that markets exist to give companies access to capital, particularly companies working with this virus.
"Having access to capital on a ready basis is critically important to companies to fund their operations - so we think the capital markets remain open during this process."
That is not to say markets cannot be shut down entirely. The US markets, for example, were closed for four days following the terror attacks of 11 September 2001.
Image: US trading was suspended in the wake of the 9-11 terror attacks
The most recent example is how, on 29 and 30 October 2012, US markets were closed after Hurricane Sandy battered New York and the US east coast.
The New York Stock Exchange, which unlike the London Stock Exchange still has a physical trading floor, announced its closure due to the risks involved in moving around its headquarters on Wall Street in Lower Manhattan. The NYSE is an unusual case because it still has physical trading and, at the time, there was a discussion about moving to purely electronic trading - but market participants were lacking in confidence in the systems.
Such closures seem unlikely this time around.
Stacey Cunningham, president of the NYSE, tweeted this afternoon: "It is important for the markets to remain open, and for them to function in a fair and orderly manner, as they have been.
"While we are deeply conscious of, and sympathetic to, investors' concerns around price declines, the market is a reflection of the larger uncertainties that everyone is experiencing during these challenging days.
"Closing the markets would not change the underlying causes of the market decline, would remove transparency into investor sentiment, and reduce investors' access to their money. This would only further compound the current market anxiety."
It seems, then, that the only thing likely to result in the closure of markets will be if people who work in the markets - and most specifically in the infrastructure, such as the exchanges and the clearing houses - succumb to coronavirus themselves.


news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Dow Jones suffers worst-ever loss in latest market meltdown

The Dow Jones Industrial Average has endured its worst ever daily points loss as global markets react to the latest dire news on the spread of coronavirus .
Markets were running scared as Monday began after America 's central bank , the Federal Reserve , slashed its benchmark interest rate to near zero on Sunday night in an attempt to help the US economy come through the COVID-19 outbreak .
The Fed also said it would expand its balance sheet by at least $ 700bn ( £565bn ) in the coming weeks to help stabilise market confidence .
After falls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK was trading more than 400 points or 8 % down by lunchtime at 4,926 , though it closed 4 % lower at 5,151 .
Airlines and holiday firms led the fallers following a slew of announcements relating to the grounding of planes and warnings that the industry will need the support of governments globally to survive the crisis intact .
IAG , the owner of British Airways , was 28 % down at one stage while holiday operator TUI saw its shares plunge by more than 30 % after it warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays were being cancelled .
The CAC in France and German DAX were both more than 10 % lower mid-session but also fought back to lose 5.75 % and 5.3 % respectively .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Trading in US stock markets was suspended shortly after the opening bell when values on the S & P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled by more than 7 % - triggering so-called circuit breakers to ease volatility .
Both later resumed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intensified for a while as Mr Trump outlined an escalation in the US response to tackle COVID-19 , warning that a recession may be on the way but he expected the economy and stock markets to bounce back strongly once the worst was over .
The Dow ended the day 13 % down and lost a record 2,997 points .
It was the worst day , in terms of percentage losses , for both indices since the Black Monday falls of 1987 .
Brent crude oil was 10 % down at just $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global demand coupled with Saudi threats to pump at record levels from next month in a bid to punish Russia for refusing to sign up to steep output cuts to support prices .
Financial analysts saw no end to the stock sell-off in sight as the news on coronavirus gets worse on a daily basis and a growing number of companies cut or suspend operations .
Vauxhall 's owner , PSA , was among firms to announce just that on Monday - saying it was to temporarily suspend output at all its factories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK , this week until 27 March at least .
It cited efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 and supply issues alongside the collapse in the car market globally .
Sectors facing massive disruption , such as retail , hospitality and airlines , have appealed for government support .
Leaders of the G7 group of wealthy nations , including the UK , said in a statement following a call they were committed to doing `` whatever is necessary '' to battle the pandemic and to work together more closely to protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The finance ministers of the countries which use the euro currency later said they had agreed a fiscal support plan , worth around 1 % of annual GDP , to support economic activity .
Central banks are also facing pressure to bolster their measures in support of business .
Andrew Bailey , who replaced Mark Carney as Bank of England governor on Monday , said the bank was `` very keen '' to ensure short-term damage to the UK economy did not permanently impair longer-term growth .
`` That 's why you saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why you will see prompt action again when we need to take it , and the public can be assured of that , '' he said .
Mr Bailey said a move on Sunday by six central banks , including the BoE , to inject cheap US dollar funds to the financial system was in response to some `` pretty big dislocations '' in markets .
`` We 're going to see how that works its way through the markets today ( and ) in the coming days to see what the effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is strong coordination among central banks . ''
Other central banks around the world , including the Bank of England , have said they would co-ordinate to ease liquidity in an attempt to blunt the economic impact of the virus .
A Bank statement on Sunday said such action would `` improve global liquidity by lowering the price and extending the maximum term of US dollar lending operations '' .
It added : `` These new operations will help ease strains in global funding markets , thereby supporting the supply of credit @ @ @ @ @ @

The Dow Jones Industrial Average has endured its worst ever daily points loss as global markets react to the latest dire news on the spread of coronavirus.
Markets were running scared as Monday began after America's central bank, the Federal Reserve, slashed its benchmark interest rate to near zero on Sunday night in an attempt to help the US economy come through the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Fed also said it would expand its balance sheet by at least $700bn (£565bn) in the coming weeks to help stabilise market confidence.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 Americans rush to board final planes to US
After falls in Asia, the FTSE 100 in the UK was trading more than 400 points or 8% down by lunchtime at 4,926, though it closed 4% lower at 5,151.
Airlines and holiday firms led the fallers following a slew of announcements relating to the grounding of planes and warnings that the industry will need the support of governments globally to survive the crisis intact.
IAG, the owner of British Airways, was 28% down at one stage while holiday operator TUI saw its shares plunge by more than 30% after it warned the "vast majority" of its holidays were being cancelled.
The CAC in France and German DAX were both more than 10% lower mid-session but also fought back to lose 5.75% and 5.3% respectively.
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Trading in US stock markets was suspended shortly after the opening bell when values on the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled by more than 7% - triggering so-called circuit breakers to ease volatility.
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Both later resumed more than 10% down and losses intensified for a while as Mr Trump outlined an escalation in the US response to tackle COVID-19, warning that a recession may be on the way but he expected the economy and stock markets to bounce back strongly once the worst was over.
The Dow ended the day 13% down and lost a record 2,997 points. It was the worst day, in terms of percentage losses, for both indices since the Black Monday falls of 1987.
Brent crude oil was 10% down at just $30 per barrel given a slump in global demand coupled with Saudi threats to pump at record levels from next month in a bid to punish Russia for refusing to sign up to steep output cuts to support prices.
Financial analysts saw no end to the stock sell-off in sight as the news on coronavirus gets worse on a daily basis and a growing number of companies cut or suspend operations.
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Vauxhall's owner, PSA, was among firms to announce just that on Monday - saying it was to temporarily suspend output at all its factories, including Ellesmere Port and Luton in the UK, this week until 27 March at least.
It cited efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 and supply issues alongside the collapse in the car market globally.
Sectors facing massive disruption, such as retail, hospitality and airlines, have appealed for government support.
Leaders of the G7 group of wealthy nations, including the UK, said in a statement following a call they were committed to doing "whatever is necessary" to battle the pandemic and to work together more closely to protect public health, jobs and growth.
The finance ministers of the countries which use the euro currency later said they had agreed a fiscal support plan, worth around 1% of annual GDP, to support economic activity.
Central banks are also facing pressure to bolster their measures in support of business.
Andrew Bailey, who replaced Mark Carney as Bank of England governor on Monday, said the bank was "very keen" to ensure short-term damage to the UK economy did not permanently impair longer-term growth.
"That's why you saw prompt action last week, that's why you will see prompt action again when we need to take it, and the public can be assured of that," he said.
Mr Bailey said a move on Sunday by six central banks, including the BoE, to inject cheap US dollar funds to the financial system was in response to some "pretty big dislocations" in markets.
"We're going to see how that works its way through the markets today (and) in the coming days to see what the effect is, but I would emphasise that this is strong coordination among central banks."
Other central banks around the world, including the Bank of England, have said they would co-ordinate to ease liquidity in an attempt to blunt the economic impact of the virus.
A Bank statement on Sunday said such action would "improve global liquidity by lowering the price and extending the maximum term of US dollar lending operations".
It added: "These new operations will help ease strains in global funding markets, thereby supporting the supply of credit to households and businesses."


news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Virgin Atlantic asks staff to take eight weeks of unpaid leave

Virgin Atlantic staff will be asked to take eight weeks of unpaid leave over the next three months , to help the airline cope during the coronavirus pandemic .
The airline is one of many to have brought in drastic measures to cope with a fall in passenger demand , due to global travel restrictions and the reluctance to travel due to the disease .
Bosses said the cost would be spread over six months ' salary to `` drastically reduce costs without job losses '' .
• Virgin Atlantic to reduce daily flights by 80 % by 26 March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be axed immediately • easyJet warns most of its fleet could be grounded , saying it will continue to operate rescue flights for short periods `` where we can '' to repatriate passengers , but more cuts are expected • easyJet chief executive Johan Lundgren : `` European aviation faces a precarious future and it is clear that co-ordinated government backing will be required to ensure the industry survives '' • Ryanair expects majority of its European fleet to be grounded over next seven to 10 days .
In countries where they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make flying `` impractical if not impossible '' • Ryainair chief executive Michael O'Leary said `` extraordinary and unprecedented travel restrictions '' imposed by governments had come `` in many cases with minimal or zero notice '' • British Airways owner IAG says travel restrictions are `` having a significant and increasingly negative impact '' on demand on almost all of its routes • IAG to reduce capacity by 75 % in April and May , compared to same period last year • IAG staff to be offered voluntary leave options , recruitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduced • IAG chief executive Willie Walsh : `` We have seen a substantial decline in bookings across our airlines and global network over the past few weeks and we expect demand to remain weak until well into the summer '' Shares in IAG closed 27 % down while easyJet 's stock lost almost 20 % .
Shares in TUI fell by more than 30 % at one stage but recovered to be almost 12.7 % lower while Ryanair also shed 12.7 % .
The falls chimed with a series of warnings relating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One consultancy claimed most of the world 's airlines could be bankrupt by the end of May without help from the government and industry .
The CAPA Centre for Aviation , an airline analysis and consulting firm based in Australia , spoke up as airlines worldwide cut schedules and staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented , '' CAPA said in a report .
`` Normality is not yet on the horizon . ''
The UK 's travel association , Abta , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and urged acceptance of its recommendation that refund credits should be accepted as an alternative to cash refunds where trips had to be cancelled .
Many countries have closed borders to arrivals or have announced compulsory self-isolation , leading to a sharp fall in demand for air travel .
The US has banned all flights from Europe , including the UK , while countries including Israel , Australia and New Zealand have said all arrivals will have to spend 14 days in isolation on arrival .
On Sunday , Sky News reported that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support worth up to £7.5bn to avert a catastrophe that would wipe out tens of thousands of jobs .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News he will meet transport sector chiefs this week .
He said : `` We understand this is a crisis like we have n't seen before , where businesses which are otherwise sustainable , otherwise good businesses , of course should be able to survive through this situation .
`` That 's what we 're going to try and put in place for all businesses and individuals in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great national effort to defeat this virus . ''
When asked if the government was minded to bail out airlines , he was non-committal but said `` discussions with the sector are ongoing '' .
• United Airlines will cut capacity by 50 % in April and May .
March brought $ 1.5bn ( £1.2bn ) less revenue than the same time last year • United warns many of its planes could fly empty well into the summer months and corporate salaries will be cut in half • Association of Flight Attendants-CWA , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Congress to `` take all measures available to protect the health and payroll of American workers '' • Germany 's Tui AG and Scandinavian airline SAS will suspend most operations and apply for government help • Icelandair Group says will cut capacity and reduce its salary cost `` significantly '' • Air New Zealand will cut jobs , reduce long haul capacity by 85 % .
Chief executive Greg Foran says : `` We are accepting that for the coming months at least , Air New Zealand will be a smaller airline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' • Australia 's Qantas will add further cuts to the 25 % reduction announced last week The World Travel and Tourism Council last week warned that up to 50 million jobs globally were at risk in the sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Nigel Frith , a senior market analyst at AskTraders , said the virus outbreak had caused the `` biggest crisis to hit the industry , worse than 9/11 '' .
He added : `` This is no longer just the smaller players like Flybe who are being affected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Airways is even warning over its survival .
It would n't be surprising if governments are forced to step in to prop up some airlines .
`` The big questions here are how quickly will the virus pandemic last ?
how quickly will countries re-open borders ?
And how willing to travel will the public be ?
The answers to these questions are unknown but will ultimately decide the fate of the airline industry . ''
As of 9am on Monday , 1,543 people had tested positive for coronavirus - and figures from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have died since being diagnosed .

Virgin Atlantic staff will be asked to take eight weeks of unpaid leave over the next three months, to help the airline cope during the coronavirus pandemic.
The airline is one of many to have brought in drastic measures to cope with a fall in passenger demand, due to global travel restrictions and the reluctance to travel due to the disease.
Bosses said the cost would be spread over six months' salary to "drastically reduce costs without job losses".
Also on Monday:
Virgin Atlantic to reduce daily flights by 80% by 26 March and the London Heathrow to Newark route to be axed immediately
Tui cancels "vast majority" of its holidays
easyJet warns most of its fleet could be grounded, saying it will continue to operate rescue flights for short periods "where we can" to repatriate passengers, but more cuts are expected
easyJet chief executive Johan Lundgren: "European aviation faces a precarious future and it is clear that co-ordinated government backing will be required to ensure the industry survives"
Ryanair expects majority of its European fleet to be grounded over next seven to 10 days. In countries where they are not grounded, growing restrictions could make flying "impractical if not impossible"
Ryainair chief executive Michael O'Leary said "extraordinary and unprecedented travel restrictions" imposed by governments had come "in many cases with minimal or zero notice"
British Airways owner IAG says travel restrictions are "having a significant and increasingly negative impact" on demand on almost all of its routes
IAG to reduce capacity by 75% in April and May, compared to same period last year
IAG staff to be offered voluntary leave options, recruitment to be frozen, and working hours reduced
IAG chief executive Willie Walsh: "We have seen a substantial decline in bookings across our airlines and global network over the past few weeks and we expect demand to remain weak until well into the summer"
Image: Countries are increasing restrictions on travellers - if they are letting them come in at all
Shares in IAG closed 27% down while easyJet's stock lost almost 20%.
Shares in TUI fell by more than 30% at one stage but recovered to be almost 12.7% lower while Ryanair also shed 12.7%.
The falls chimed with a series of warnings relating to the aviation and tourism sectors.
One consultancy claimed most of the world's airlines could be bankrupt by the end of May without help from the government and industry.
The CAPA Centre for Aviation, an airline analysis and consulting firm based in Australia, spoke up as airlines worldwide cut schedules and staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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"Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented," CAPA said in a report. "Normality is not yet on the horizon."
The UK's travel association, Abta, issued a similar appeal for government help and urged acceptance of its recommendation that refund credits should be accepted as an alternative to cash refunds where trips had to be cancelled.
Many countries have closed borders to arrivals or have announced compulsory self-isolation, leading to a sharp fall in demand for air travel.
The US has banned all flights from Europe, including the UK, while countries including Israel, Australia and New Zealand have said all arrivals will have to spend 14 days in isolation on arrival.
On Sunday, Sky News reported that Britain's airline industry needs emergency government support worth up to £7.5bn to avert a catastrophe that would wipe out tens of thousands of jobs.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News he will meet transport sector chiefs this week.
He said: "We understand this is a crisis like we haven't seen before, where businesses which are otherwise sustainable, otherwise good businesses, of course should be able to survive through this situation.
"That's what we're going to try and put in place for all businesses and individuals in this country, as we join this great national effort to defeat this virus."
When asked if the government was minded to bail out airlines, he was non-committal but said "discussions with the sector are ongoing".
Image: This week could be one of the worst for the aviation industry as the effects of the virus become clearer
In other coronavirus-related aviation news:
United Airlines will cut capacity by 50% in April and May. March brought $1.5bn (£1.2bn) less revenue than the same time last year
United warns many of its planes could fly empty well into the summer months and corporate salaries will be cut in half
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, representing 50,000 US flight attendants, calls on Congress to "take all measures available to protect the health and payroll of American workers"
Germany's Tui AG and Scandinavian airline SAS will suspend most operations and apply for government help
Icelandair Group says will cut capacity and reduce its salary cost "significantly"
Air New Zealand will cut jobs, reduce long haul capacity by 85%. Chief executive Greg Foran says: "We are accepting that for the coming months at least, Air New Zealand will be a smaller airline requiring fewer resources, including fewer people"
Australia's Qantas will add further cuts to the 25% reduction announced last week
Image: SAS is among those cutting capacity due to the fall in demand
The World Travel and Tourism Council last week warned that up to 50 million jobs globally were at risk in the sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nigel Frith, a senior market analyst at AskTraders, said the virus outbreak had caused the "biggest crisis to hit the industry, worse than 9/11".
He added: "This is no longer just the smaller players like Flybe who are being affected. Industry big shots such as British Airways is even warning over its survival. It wouldn't be surprising if governments are forced to step in to prop up some airlines.
"The big questions here are how quickly will the virus pandemic last? how quickly will countries re-open borders? And how willing to travel will the public be? The answers to these questions are unknown but will ultimately decide the fate of the airline industry."
As of 9am on Monday, 1,543 people had tested positive for coronavirus - and figures from Sunday show 35 people in the UK have died since being diagnosed.