news--2020-06-08--'Pent-up demand' and good weather bring shoppers out in May

Good weather and `` pent-up demand '' for shopping saw an uptick in the number of consumers in physical stores during May .
Figures from consumer intelligence company Springboard showed a 73.3 % drop in footfall during the second month of lockdown - the lowest on record - but it was an improvement from the 80 % fall in April .
The UK went into lockdown on 23 March to slow the spread of the COVID-19 , with all retail stores deemed non-essential forced to close .
The government has since allowed some home stores and garden centres to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trading from the start of June .
Retail parks have led the recovery in the number of shoppers , partly aided by the presence of essential food stores and home stores that have stayed open during the coronavirus outbreak .
The 55.1 % drop in footfall at retail parks in May , compared to the same month last year , was significantly better than the high street and shopping centres where the drop in demand has been 78 % and 80.5 % respectively .
Springboard also noted that smaller high streets have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consumers shopped locally .
Footfall on major high streets declined by 89 % compared to 41 % for the smallest .
`` The limited evidence so far has suggested that , despite the growth in online shopping over the past two months , there is a huge amount of pent-up demand amongst consumers for bricks-and-mortar shopping , '' said Diane Wehrle , director of Springboard .
She added : `` The first indication of this were the monumental queues that built up at major home stores in the weekend before the official easing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June . ''
Long queues and social distancing measures were seen at IKEA as the company opened its doors to shoppers for the first time since the lockdown .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Other non-essential retail stores will begin to open from 15 June if they meet guidelines to keep shoppers safe from COVID-19 .
Restaurants and cafes , pubs , cinemas , clothing and electronics stores are still required to remain closed .
Ms Wehrle added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the period of retail reopening in June , and over subsequent months , will be whether this signals the beginning of a new era for local high streets . ''

Good weather and "pent-up demand" for shopping saw an uptick in the number of consumers in physical stores during May.
Figures from consumer intelligence company Springboard showed a 73.3% drop in footfall during the second month of lockdown - the lowest on record - but it was an improvement from the 80% fall in April.
The UK went into lockdown on 23 March to slow the spread of the COVID-19, with all retail stores deemed non-essential forced to close.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:32 Long queues at Birmingham Ikea
The government has since allowed some home stores and garden centres to reopen during May and car show rooms began trading from the start of June.
Retail parks have led the recovery in the number of shoppers, partly aided by the presence of essential food stores and home stores that have stayed open during the coronavirus outbreak.
The 55.1% drop in footfall at retail parks in May, compared to the same month last year, was significantly better than the high street and shopping centres where the drop in demand has been 78% and 80.5% respectively.
Springboard also noted that smaller high streets have been the most resilient during the lockdown as consumers shopped locally. Footfall on major high streets declined by 89% compared to 41% for the smallest.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:57 How will the economy be reignited?
"The limited evidence so far has suggested that, despite the growth in online shopping over the past two months, there is a huge amount of pent-up demand amongst consumers for bricks-and-mortar shopping," said Diane Wehrle, director of Springboard.
She added: "The first indication of this were the monumental queues that built up at major home stores in the weekend before the official easing of lockdown restrictions in England on 1st June."
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Long queues and social distancing measures were seen at IKEA as the company opened its doors to shoppers for the first time since the lockdown.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Other non-essential retail stores will begin to open from 15 June if they meet guidelines to keep shoppers safe from COVID-19.
Restaurants and cafes, pubs, cinemas, clothing and electronics stores are still required to remain closed.
Ms Wehrle added: "The key trend to be watched over the period of retail reopening in June, and over subsequent months, will be whether this signals the beginning of a new era for local high streets."


news--2020-06-08--Miriam Margolyes cleared by Ofcom after saying she 'wanted Boris Johnson to die' on live TV

Miriam Margolyes will not face an official Ofcom investigation for saying she wanted Boris Johnson `` to die '' during his battle with coronavirus on live TV .
The 79-year-old Harry Potter actress made the comment when appearing remotely on late night Channel 4 comedy show The Last Leg on 8 May .
Speaking to presenter Adam Hills from her kitchen via webcam ( due to COVID-19 social distancing measures ) , Margolyes was responding to the question : `` How do you think the government have handled everything ( regarding the coronavirus pandemic ) so far ? ''
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's a disgrace ...
It 's a public scandal .
`` I had difficulty not wanting Boris Johnson to die , I wanted him to die , and then I thought that reflects badly on me and I do n't want to be the sort of person who wants people to die .
`` So , then I wanted him to get better , which he did do , he did get better , but he did n't get better as a human being and I really would prefer that . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an initial investigation from Ofcom - but the TV watchdog has said that no further action will be taken .
A spokeswoman said while the comments were `` provocative '' and had `` clear potential to offend '' , viewers must balance that with Margolyes ' forthright reputation and the adult tone of The Last Leg - a late-night satirical comedy show .
`` We also took into account that Ms Margolyes immediately qualified her comments , and viewers were warned in advance about the programme 's adult humour , '' the spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubtful that viewers would have thought the actress had `` genuinely '' wanted the prime minister to die , and also flagged the fact Margolyes `` immediately mitigated her comment '' .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker During the exchange , the show 's co-presenters Alex Brooker and Josh Widdicombe looked visibly shocked by the comments and Hills quickly moved the conversation on .
None of the presenters endorsed Margolyes ' comments .
Ofcom also cited `` a long tradition in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be derived from contributors making provocative and challenging statements about people in the public eye , including elected politicians '' .
A vocal political activist , Margolyes - who was made an OBE for services to drama in 2002 - is best known for playing Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter films and Mother Mildred in Call The Midwife .

Miriam Margolyes will not face an official Ofcom investigation for saying she wanted Boris Johnson "to die" during his battle with coronavirus on live TV.
The 79-year-old Harry Potter actress made the comment when appearing remotely on late night Channel 4 comedy show The Last Leg on 8 May.
Speaking to presenter Adam Hills from her kitchen via webcam (due to COVID-19 social distancing measures), Margolyes was responding to the question: "How do you think the government have handled everything (regarding the coronavirus pandemic) so far?"
Image: Boris Johnson came in for some criticism from the Potter star
She replied: "Appallingly of course... It's a disgrace... It's a public scandal.
"I had difficulty not wanting Boris Johnson to die, I wanted him to die, and then I thought that reflects badly on me and I don't want to be the sort of person who wants people to die.
"So, then I wanted him to get better, which he did do, he did get better, but he didn't get better as a human being and I really would prefer that."
Her remarks sparked 494 complaints, prompting an initial investigation from Ofcom - but the TV watchdog has said that no further action will be taken.
A spokeswoman said while the comments were "provocative" and had "clear potential to offend", viewers must balance that with Margolyes' forthright reputation and the adult tone of The Last Leg - a late-night satirical comedy show.
"We also took into account that Ms Margolyes immediately qualified her comments, and viewers were warned in advance about the programme's adult humour," the spokeswoman added.
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Channel 4 said it was doubtful that viewers would have thought the actress had "genuinely" wanted the prime minister to die, and also flagged the fact Margolyes "immediately mitigated her comment".
Image: The prime minister spent several nights in intensive care
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During the exchange, the show's co-presenters Alex Brooker and Josh Widdicombe looked visibly shocked by the comments and Hills quickly moved the conversation on.
None of the presenters endorsed Margolyes' comments.
Ofcom also cited "a long tradition in UK broadcasting of satirical programmes where comedy will be derived from contributors making provocative and challenging statements about people in the public eye, including elected politicians".
A vocal political activist, Margolyes - who was made an OBE for services to drama in 2002 - is best known for playing Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter films and Mother Mildred in Call The Midwife.


news--2020-06-08--Coronavirus: EasyJet warns of more job losses as Ryanair labels travel quarantine a 'political stunt

Coronavirus: EasyJet warns of more job losses as Ryanair labels travel quarantine a 'political stunt'

Ryanair has criticised the UK 's new quarantine measures as a `` political stunt '' , while fellow budget airline EasyJet has warned there could be more job losses if the government 's policy for international travellers continues .
Johan Lundgren , chief executive of EasyJet , told Sky 's Ian King Live that he `` feared '' there would be more job losses at the airline if the quarantine period lasts longer than expected .
The UK introduced a 14-day quarantine period for international arrivals on Monday , despite warnings from some of the biggest airlines in the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in tourism and damage exports .
Under the new rules , those failing to self-isolate for 14-days could face a fine of £1,000 .
Passengers travelling to the UK will also not be allowed to use public transport from the airport and will be prevented from going to work or school while under quarantine .
Jet2 said later on Monday that it had delayed resuming flights and package holidays by two weeks until 15 July as a result of the restrictions , with customers affected able to rebook , claim credits or refunds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is affecting millions of people and it 's also affecting the UK vacation industry which has been a , a leading sector across the global aviation .
`` I fear that unless there 's a change into this , the aviation industry as we know it here in the UK will not be intact . ''
The low-cost airline is already planning to cut 4,500 jobs or 30 % of its workforce because of the fall in demand for air travel due to the coronavirus crisis .
: : Listen to the Daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spotify , Spreaker Ryanair boss also piled into the matter by highlighting the flaws in the government 's strategy and pointing out that the Prime Minister 's special adviser broke lockdown rules .
Chief executive of the Irish airline Michael O'Leary said : `` It 's a political stunt designed by Dominic Cummings [ PM 's special advisor ] et al.
, to cover the fact that they do n't even observe the quarantines themselves anyway . ''
Mr O'Leary also said that while thousands of British tourists flocked to European destinations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the same was n't true of European travellers coming to the UK .
He added : `` Thousands of Europeans who would normally visit the UK during July and August , the peak holiday season , are not coming there because they 're terrified of this quarantine . ''
The chief executive of London 's Heathrow Airport added pressure on the government by telling Kay Burley @ Breakfast that hundreds of thousands of jobs could be lost if aviation is not able to resume quickly .
John Holland-Kaye said : `` If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly , in a very safe way , then we are going to lose hundreds of thousands if not millions of jobs in the UK just at the time when we need to be rebuilding our economy . ''
The boss of British Airways owner IAG told Sky 's Ian King Live programme last week that he was considering a legal challenge against the quarantine and was reviewing the situation with lawyers .
Willie Walsh said : `` We think it is irrational , we think it is disproportionate and we are giving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislation . ''

Ryanair has criticised the UK's new quarantine measures as a "political stunt", while fellow budget airline EasyJet has warned there could be more job losses if the government's policy for international travellers continues.
Johan Lundgren, chief executive of EasyJet, told Sky's Ian King Live that he "feared" there would be more job losses at the airline if the quarantine period lasts longer than expected.
The UK introduced a 14-day quarantine period for international arrivals on Monday, despite warnings from some of the biggest airlines in the country that the move will cause a collapse in tourism and damage exports.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:30 Ryanair CEO slams new quarantine measures
Under the new rules, those failing to self-isolate for 14-days could face a fine of £1,000.
Passengers travelling to the UK will also not be allowed to use public transport from the airport and will be prevented from going to work or school while under quarantine.
Jet2 said later on Monday that it had delayed resuming flights and package holidays by two weeks until 15 July as a result of the restrictions, with customers affected able to rebook, claim credits or refunds.
Mr Lundgren said: "This is affecting millions of people and it's also affecting the UK vacation industry which has been a, a leading sector across the global aviation.
"I fear that unless there's a change into this, the aviation industry as we know it here in the UK will not be intact."
The low-cost airline is already planning to cut 4,500 jobs or 30% of its workforce because of the fall in demand for air travel due to the coronavirus crisis.
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Ryanair boss also piled into the matter by highlighting the flaws in the government's strategy and pointing out that the Prime Minister's special adviser broke lockdown rules.
Chief executive of the Irish airline Michael O'Leary said: "It's a political stunt designed by Dominic Cummings [PM's special advisor] et al., to cover the fact that they don't even observe the quarantines themselves anyway."
Mr O'Leary also said that while thousands of British tourists flocked to European destinations during the few remaining months of summer, the same wasn't true of European travellers coming to the UK.
He added: "Thousands of Europeans who would normally visit the UK during July and August, the peak holiday season, are not coming there because they're terrified of this quarantine."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 12:09 IAG chief hints at quarantine legal action
The chief executive of London's Heathrow Airport added pressure on the government by telling Kay Burley @ Breakfast that hundreds of thousands of jobs could be lost if aviation is not able to resume quickly.
John Holland-Kaye said: "If we don't get aviation moving again quickly, in a very safe way, then we are going to lose hundreds of thousands if not millions of jobs in the UK just at the time when we need to be rebuilding our economy."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:33 Heathrow Airport: Government must start 'planning our way out of this crisis'
The boss of British Airways owner IAG told Sky's Ian King Live programme last week that he was considering a legal challenge against the quarantine and was reviewing the situation with lawyers.
Willie Walsh said: "We think it is irrational, we think it is disproportionate and we are giving consideration to a legal challenge to this legislation."


news--2020-06-08--Restrictions on foreign takeovers risk post-Brexit China backlash

It is widely believed that any tightening of the UK 's takeover rules would be the result of growing diplomatic tensions with Beijing The list reads like a Who 's Who of well-known British brands and businesses : Tetley tea , Jaguar Land Rover ( JLR ) , Boots , HP sauce , Harrods , Cadbury , Heathrow Airport , O2 , Manchester United , Weetabix , Rolls-Royce Motors , Dulux paint and Beefeater gin .
All are businesses that have been bought by owners from outside the United Kingdom during the last couple of decades or so .
During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gnashing of teeth by those who deplored the loss of what they saw as national assets , despite plenty of evidence that businesses like JLR - owned by Tata of India - have actually flourished under foreign ownership .
Now , though , Britain 's rules on foreign takeovers look set to be toughened up .
According to a report in The Times , Boris Johnson hopes to make it mandatory for British companies to report attempted takeovers that could give rise to 'security risks ' .
Failing to adhere to the rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead to the jailing or disqualification of directors and heavy fines .
The proposals revive those made by Theresa May 's government two years ago for a more interventionist approach to takeovers , in a national security and investment white paper , which appeared to target Chinese companies in particular .
Mrs May was very keen on the proposals , but they ran into opposition from her senior cabinet colleagues , including the then chancellor Philip Hammond , and Greg Clark , then the business secretary .
They argued the proposals were contrary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the time , that the UK would be an open economy and welcoming to overseas businesses and investors in the aftermath of Brexit .
This time around , the chancellor , Rishi Sunak , appears to be pushing for the rules supported by Dominic Cummings , the PM 's chief adviser .
And they look more likely now to make it onto the statute book .
That is not only because Mr Johnson enjoys a substantially bigger parliamentary majority than Mrs May .
It is also because the mood in parliament has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only five years ago that David Cameron was welcoming Chinese President Xi Jinping to Chequers and his chancellor , George Osborne , was promising to make the UK the world 's most attractive destination for Chinese investment .
Since then , Tory MPs have become more suspicious about the role of Chinese company Huawei 's involvement in 5G roll-out following attacks on the company by President Trump , while there was also unease over recent events at Imagination Technologies , a UK chip maker , which was bought for £550m three years ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm backed by the Chinese state .
The latter was recently forced to back down over plans to replace Imagination 's British directors with board members close to Beijing .
Amplifying those concerns has been unhappiness at Beijing 's security crackdown in Hong Kong and China 's initial handling of the COVID-19 pandemic .
Much of this has been fanned by the increasingly influential China Research Group of Conservative MPs , co-led by Tom Tugendhat , chairman of the Commons foreign affairs select committee .
He wrote in the Financial Times last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chancellor Rishi Sunak warns of a 'recession the likes of which we have not seen ' , which will see some businesses go under and others put up for sale [ in the wake of the pandemic ] .
`` An inferno of fire sales [ of British companies ] is risky : if we are not careful , much of the intellectual property the UK needs for long-term innovation and prosperity could disappear to Shanghai or Shenzhen . ''
He called for Britain to set up a body like the Committee on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CFIUS ) which , under President Trump , has taken a more strident approach in arbitrating on foreign takeovers of US businesses .
Nor is the US government the only administration toughening up its approach to possible Chinese takeovers .
The European Commission is currently working on proposals to step up scrutiny of state-owned and supported companies operating in Europe or seeking to enter the EU 's single market .
It is being seen as a measure specifically targeted at Beijing and reflects unhappiness in Germany , in particular , that it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Europe than it is for European companies to do business in China .
Australia is also in the process of introducing a tough new 'national security ' test for foreign takeovers of its businesses .
Yet there are plenty of risks inherent in the government 's proposals .
The first is the argument set out by Messrs Hammond and Clark two years ago : Brexit was supposed to be all about forging new trading relationships and pursuing openness in trade around the world .
Imposing hurdles to foreign takeovers runs counter to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a key partner in the construction of Hinkley Point ' C ' in Somerset , the UK 's first new nuclear power plant in a generation , as well as a putative investor in another new nuclear plant , Sizewell ' C ' , in Suffolk .
A second is that targeting Chinese investors in Britain risks reciprocal action against British companies in China .
Some of the UK 's largest companies , including the spirits maker Diageo , the consumer goods giant Unilever and the drugs major AstraZeneca , depend on China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The fortunes of others , such as HSBC , Standard Chartered and Prudential , depend to a very significant degree on Hong Kong and China .
They are already feeling twitchy following reports that Mr Johnson is planning to row back on previous commitments to Huawei , and the Sunday Telegraph reported at the weekend that Mark Tucker , HSBC 's chairman , has warned the PM 's advisers that the bank could face reprisals were Huawei to be barred from 5G roll-out .
A third factor is the persistent trade deficits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more goods and services than it exports .
These are financed , in the famous words of the former Bank of England governor Mark Carney , by `` the kindness of strangers '' and means it is imperative for the UK to remain an attractive destination for foreign investors .
These things mean that , however much 10 Downing Street wants to take a more robust approach towards Chinese investment , it will have to be careful not to be too zealous .

Sky's Ian King says tightening takeover rules to repel Chinese raiders risks reprisals for the firms ministers want to protect.
It is widely believed that any tightening of the UK's takeover rules would be the result of growing diplomatic tensions with Beijing
The list reads like a Who's Who of well-known British brands and businesses: Tetley tea, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), Boots, HP sauce, Harrods, Cadbury, Heathrow Airport, O2, Manchester United, Weetabix, Rolls-Royce Motors, Dulux paint and Beefeater gin.
All are businesses that have been bought by owners from outside the United Kingdom during the last couple of decades or so.
During that period, there has been much gnashing of teeth by those who deplored the loss of what they saw as national assets, despite plenty of evidence that businesses like JLR - owned by Tata of India - have actually flourished under foreign ownership.
Image: Boris Johnson is reportedly considering tougher rules governing significant overseas ownership of UK companies
Now, though, Britain's rules on foreign takeovers look set to be toughened up.
According to a report in The Times, Boris Johnson hopes to make it mandatory for British companies to report attempted takeovers that could give rise to 'security risks'.
Failing to adhere to the rules would be a criminal offence and could lead to the jailing or disqualification of directors and heavy fines.
The proposals revive those made by Theresa May's government two years ago for a more interventionist approach to takeovers, in a national security and investment white paper, which appeared to target Chinese companies in particular.
Mrs May was very keen on the proposals, but they ran into opposition from her senior cabinet colleagues, including the then chancellor Philip Hammond, and Greg Clark, then the business secretary.
They argued the proposals were contrary to the May government's message, at the time, that the UK would be an open economy and welcoming to overseas businesses and investors in the aftermath of Brexit.
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This time around, the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, appears to be pushing for the rules supported by Dominic Cummings, the PM's chief adviser.
And they look more likely now to make it onto the statute book. That is not only because Mr Johnson enjoys a substantially bigger parliamentary majority than Mrs May.
It is also because the mood in parliament has shifted significantly against China. It was only five years ago that David Cameron was welcoming Chinese President Xi Jinping to Chequers and his chancellor, George Osborne, was promising to make the UK the world's most attractive destination for Chinese investment.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:50 Could Huawei Threaten UK Security?
Since then, Tory MPs have become more suspicious about the role of Chinese company Huawei's involvement in 5G roll-out following attacks on the company by President Trump, while there was also unease over recent events at Imagination Technologies, a UK chip maker, which was bought for £550m three years ago by Canyon Bridge, a private equity firm backed by the Chinese state.
The latter was recently forced to back down over plans to replace Imagination's British directors with board members close to Beijing.
Amplifying those concerns has been unhappiness at Beijing's security crackdown in Hong Kong and China's initial handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Much of this has been fanned by the increasingly influential China Research Group of Conservative MPs, co-led by Tom Tugendhat, chairman of the Commons foreign affairs select committee.
He wrote in the Financial Times last month: "We cannot delay. Chancellor Rishi Sunak warns of a 'recession the likes of which we have not seen', which will see some businesses go under and others put up for sale [in the wake of the pandemic].
"An inferno of fire sales [of British companies] is risky: if we are not careful, much of the intellectual property the UK needs for long-term innovation and prosperity could disappear to Shanghai or Shenzhen."
He called for Britain to set up a body like the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) which, under President Trump, has taken a more strident approach in arbitrating on foreign takeovers of US businesses.
Nor is the US government the only administration toughening up its approach to possible Chinese takeovers.
Image: Until the COVID-19 crisis, Donald Trump's presidency to date had been dominated by his bitter trade war with China
The European Commission is currently working on proposals to step up scrutiny of state-owned and supported companies operating in Europe or seeking to enter the EU's single market. It is being seen as a measure specifically targeted at Beijing and reflects unhappiness in Germany, in particular, that it is easier for Chinese companies to do business in Europe than it is for European companies to do business in China.
Australia is also in the process of introducing a tough new 'national security' test for foreign takeovers of its businesses.
Yet there are plenty of risks inherent in the government's proposals.
The first is the argument set out by Messrs Hammond and Clark two years ago: Brexit was supposed to be all about forging new trading relationships and pursuing openness in trade around the world.
Imposing hurdles to foreign takeovers runs counter to that and particularly when China is already a key partner in the construction of Hinkley Point 'C' in Somerset, the UK's first new nuclear power plant in a generation, as well as a putative investor in another new nuclear plant, Sizewell 'C', in Suffolk.
A second is that targeting Chinese investors in Britain risks reciprocal action against British companies in China. Some of the UK's largest companies, including the spirits maker Diageo, the consumer goods giant Unilever and the drugs major AstraZeneca, depend on China for a growing proportion of their sales.
Image: Diageo's stable includes the Johnnie Walker whisky brand
The fortunes of others, such as HSBC, Standard Chartered and Prudential, depend to a very significant degree on Hong Kong and China.
They are already feeling twitchy following reports that Mr Johnson is planning to row back on previous commitments to Huawei, and the Sunday Telegraph reported at the weekend that Mark Tucker, HSBC's chairman, has warned the PM's advisers that the bank could face reprisals were Huawei to be barred from 5G roll-out.
A third factor is the persistent trade deficits incurred by the UK. Britain imports more goods and services than it exports.
These are financed, in the famous words of the former Bank of England governor Mark Carney, by "the kindness of strangers" and means it is imperative for the UK to remain an attractive destination for foreign investors.
These things mean that, however much 10 Downing Street wants to take a more robust approach towards Chinese investment, it will have to be careful not to be too zealous.


news--2020-06-08--Coronavirus: Mulberry plans to cut 25% of its global workforce

Luxury brand Mulberry plans to cut 25 % of its global workforce as the coronavirus pandemic causes a steep fall in sales for its upmarket fashion goods .
The London-listed company said it only expects a `` gradual '' recovery in demand from the deep slump caused by the uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic .
Mulberry employs 1,400 people globally with most of its staff based in the UK .
The majority of the fashion retailer 's 120 stores across 25 countries remain currently closed due to national lockdowns .
Chief executive Thierry Andretta said the decision to close physical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' on the business .
He added : `` Launching a consultation process has been an incredibly difficult decision for us to make but it is necessary for us to respond to these challenging market conditions , protect the maximum number of jobs possible and safeguard the future of the business .
`` We remain confident in the strength of the Mulberry brand and our strategy over the long-term . ''
The company previously said it was trying to redeploy as much of its workforce as possible to save jobs , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level .
Data from consumer intelligence company Springboard showed that UK retail activity only picked up marginally in May , after falling to the lowest levels in April .
FTSE 100 fashion giant Burberry earlier this year also said the lack of demand had led to steep falls in revenue .
Meanwhile , oil firm BP has announced it will cut 15 % of its global workforce to cope with the drop in the oil price .

Luxury brand Mulberry plans to cut 25% of its global workforce as the coronavirus pandemic causes a steep fall in sales for its upmarket fashion goods.
The London-listed company said it only expects a "gradual" recovery in demand from the deep slump caused by the uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mulberry employs 1,400 people globally with most of its staff based in the UK.
The majority of the fashion retailer's 120 stores across 25 countries remain currently closed due to national lockdowns.
Chief executive Thierry Andretta said the decision to close physical stores will have a "marked effect" on the business.
He added: "Launching a consultation process has been an incredibly difficult decision for us to make but it is necessary for us to respond to these challenging market conditions, protect the maximum number of jobs possible and safeguard the future of the business.
"We remain confident in the strength of the Mulberry brand and our strategy over the long-term."
The company previously said it was trying to redeploy as much of its workforce as possible to save jobs, as well as cutting executive pay at the top level.
Data from consumer intelligence company Springboard showed that UK retail activity only picked up marginally in May, after falling to the lowest levels in April.
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FTSE 100 fashion giant Burberry earlier this year also said the lack of demand had led to steep falls in revenue.
Meanwhile, oil firm BP has announced it will cut 15% of its global workforce to cope with the drop in the oil price.


news--2020-06-08--Coronavirus: Two-thirds of Britons not planning to travel abroad for the rest of the year

More than two-thirds of Britons are not planning international travel for the rest of the year , according to a YouGov poll commissioned by Sky News .
The survey of 2,412 adults revealed that the majority of British people are not intending to go abroad anytime soon , as the coronavirus pandemic continues to disrupt travel plans .
The poll found 68 % of people are not planning international travel in the next six months , while only 16 % are still intending to travel and the remaining 16 % are unsure .
The poll also revealed that young people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considering foreign travel .
Among people aged 65 and over , 75 % said they were definitely not planning to travel before December .
But only 60 % of people aged 18 to 24 , and 65 % of people aged 25 to 49 , said they had ruled out international travel in the same period .
People living in London were also more likely to still be planning to travel than those in other regions .
In the capital , 26 % of people said they were still planning to travel abroad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number fell to 19 % of people in the rest of the south of England , 15 % of people in Scotland , 13 % of people in the north of England , and only 12 % of people in the Midlands and Wales .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker When it came to methods of international travel , people felt trains were the safest type of public transport .
Forty-nine percent of people said they would feel safe travelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would feel safe travelling by ferry .
Only 42 % of people said they would feel safe travelling by plane - illustrating the scale of the struggle currently facing the aviation industry .
Planes were also the means of transport that the largest number of people said they would feel unsafe taking .
Forty percent of people said they would now feel unsafe travelling by plane , while only 31 % of people were worried about travelling on trains or ferries .
The decision by the government to introduce a mandatory 14-day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also appeared to have had a big impact on people 's plans .
Only 11 % of people said they would go on holiday abroad if they were required to quarantine for two weeks on arrival at their destination or on their return to the UK .
The majority , 77 % , said they would not go on a foreign holiday while such measures were in place .

More than two-thirds of Britons are not planning international travel for the rest of the year, according to a YouGov poll commissioned by Sky News.
The survey of 2,412 adults revealed that the majority of British people are not intending to go abroad anytime soon, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to disrupt travel plans.
The poll found 68% of people are not planning international travel in the next six months, while only 16% are still intending to travel and the remaining 16% are unsure.
Image: Most people are not planning to travel internationally in the next six months
The poll also revealed that young people were the most likely to still be considering foreign travel.
Among people aged 65 and over, 75% said they were definitely not planning to travel before December.
But only 60% of people aged 18 to 24, and 65% of people aged 25 to 49, said they had ruled out international travel in the same period.
People living in London were also more likely to still be planning to travel than those in other regions.
In the capital, 26% of people said they were still planning to travel abroad in the next six months.
That number fell to 19% of people in the rest of the south of England, 15% of people in Scotland, 13% of people in the north of England, and only 12% of people in the Midlands and Wales.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
When it came to methods of international travel, people felt trains were the safest type of public transport.
Forty-nine percent of people said they would feel safe travelling by train, while 47% said they would feel safe travelling by ferry.
Image: International train travel was felt to be safe by 49% of people
Image: International ferry travel was felt to be safe by 47% of people
Only 42% of people said they would feel safe travelling by plane - illustrating the scale of the struggle currently facing the aviation industry.
Planes were also the means of transport that the largest number of people said they would feel unsafe taking.
Forty percent of people said they would now feel unsafe travelling by plane, while only 31% of people were worried about travelling on trains or ferries.
Image: Only 42% of people said they'd feel safe travelling internationally by plane
The decision by the government to introduce a mandatory 14-day quarantine for people arriving in the UK also appeared to have had a big impact on people's plans.
Only 11% of people said they would go on holiday abroad if they were required to quarantine for two weeks on arrival at their destination or on their return to the UK.
The majority, 77%, said they would not go on a foreign holiday while such measures were in place.


news--2020-06-08--Coronavirus: Government won't suspend rules to allow migrants access to public funds

A senior MP has expressed his `` deep regret '' the government will not act to alleviate the `` severe hardship '' of some migrants during the coronavirus crisis - less than two weeks after Boris Johnson vowed he would `` see what we can do to help '' .
Labour 's Stephen Timms , the chair of the House of Commons work and pensions committee , told Sky News the prime minister was `` right '' to have promised to look into the issue of those whose immigration status means they are not eligible for state support .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Priti Patel on Monday confirmed the government would not be suspending rules that mean some migrants have no recourse to public funds during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Mr Timms recently challenged Mr Johnson about those who have permission to remain in the UK but are not able to access state support .
The prime minister appeared surprised that some migrants could not access welfare payments , with Mr Timms having to explain they have no recourse to public funds as a condition attached to their right to stay in the UK .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are in that position and we will see what we can do to help , '' Mr Johnson told Mr Timms on 27 May .
However , Ms Patel has now refused to suspend the no recourse to public funds rule for the duration of the coronavirus pandemic , as she argued support had been made available .
She told MPs on Monday : `` Local authorities have provided a basic safety net and that is through significant financial provisions introduced by the government and a range of measures to support those people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , because of this national health pandemic , the situation we find ourselves in , will support people with no recourse to public funds .
`` And that assistance is being given under the coronavirus retention scheme and also the self-employed income support scheme .
`` So these funds are available . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Following Ms Patel 's remarks , Mr Timms told Sky News : `` Many hard-working families , with children born in Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no recourse to public funds , and are suffering severe hardship in this crisis .
`` They can not access the Universal Credit safety net which is available to everyone else .
`` The prime minister told me at the liaison committee that people in this position 'should have support of one kind or another ' .
He is right .
`` So I deeply regret that the home secretary has announced today that the government will make no changes at all . ''
Ms Patel addressed the issue in the House of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immigration rules by acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey .
He told the home secretary she `` does n't get it '' , adding : `` People who work here , paid taxes here for years are being denied support and are falling to destitution . ''

A senior MP has expressed his "deep regret" the government will not act to alleviate the "severe hardship" of some migrants during the coronavirus crisis - less than two weeks after Boris Johnson vowed he would "see what we can do to help".
Labour's Stephen Timms, the chair of the House of Commons work and pensions committee, told Sky News the prime minister was "right" to have promised to look into the issue of those whose immigration status means they are not eligible for state support.
But he spoke of his disappointment after Home Secretary Priti Patel on Monday confirmed the government would not be suspending rules that mean some migrants have no recourse to public funds during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Image: How UK visas state someone has 'no recourse to public funds'
Mr Timms recently challenged Mr Johnson about those who have permission to remain in the UK but are not able to access state support.
The prime minister appeared surprised that some migrants could not access welfare payments, with Mr Timms having to explain they have no recourse to public funds as a condition attached to their right to stay in the UK.
"I will find out how many are in that position and we will see what we can do to help," Mr Johnson told Mr Timms on 27 May.
However, Ms Patel has now refused to suspend the no recourse to public funds rule for the duration of the coronavirus pandemic, as she argued support had been made available.
She told MPs on Monday: "Local authorities have provided a basic safety net and that is through significant financial provisions introduced by the government and a range of measures to support those people that have been working and because of coronavirus, because of this national health pandemic, the situation we find ourselves in, will support people with no recourse to public funds.
"And that assistance is being given under the coronavirus retention scheme and also the self-employed income support scheme.
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"So these funds are available."
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Following Ms Patel's remarks, Mr Timms told Sky News: "Many hard-working families, with children born in Britain, have leave to remain, but no recourse to public funds, and are suffering severe hardship in this crisis.
"They cannot access the Universal Credit safety net which is available to everyone else.
"The prime minister told me at the liaison committee that people in this position 'should have support of one kind or another'. He is right.
"So I deeply regret that the home secretary has announced today that the government will make no changes at all."
Ms Patel addressed the issue in the House of Commons after being urged to suspend the immigration rules by acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey.
He told the home secretary she "doesn't get it", adding: "People who work here, paid taxes here for years are being denied support and are falling to destitution."


news--2020-06-08--George Floyd protests: Slave trader statue was an 'affront', says Bristol mayor as he reveals what w

George Floyd protests: Slave trader statue was an 'affront', says Bristol mayor as he reveals what will happen to it now

The slave trader statue that was toppled in Bristol was an `` affront '' , the city 's mayor has said - but it will still `` highly likely '' end up in a museum .
Speaking on Kay Burley @ Breakfast , Marvin Rees said that `` as an elected politician I can not condone criminal damage '' .
But he added : `` I ca n't pretend , as the son of a Jamaican migrant myself , that the presence of that statue to a slave trader in the middle of the city was anything other than a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me . ''
Mr Rees continued : `` We will get the statue back and it will highly likely end up in one of our museums .
`` What 's happened to this statue is part of this city 's history and it 's part of that statue 's story . ''
The statue of Edward Colston was yanked off its plinth and later sprayed with paint and dumped in the city 's harbour during protests in support of the Black Lives Matter movement on Sunday .
On Monday , a hand-written sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a member of the public , saying : `` This plaque is dedicated to the slaves that were taken from their homes . ''
The Lord Mayor of Cardiff , meanwhile , has called for the city 's statue of `` sadistic '' slave owner Sir Thomas Picton to be removed .
The killing of George Floyd in police custody in the US has sparked demonstrations around the world , including in the UK .
While the protesters here have voiced their anger at the killing of Mr Floyd , they have also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in the UK and call for action to tackle racial injustice .
Thousands turned out across the UK for the demonstrations , despite warnings for people not to gather during the coronavirus pandemic .
Speaking in the wake of the Bristol incident and further clashes between protesters and the police in London , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the anti-racism protests have been `` subverted by thuggery '' that betrays their cause .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Bristol incident was `` utterly disgraceful '' and would detract from the protesters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disorder is completely unacceptable , '' she said .
Ms Patel wrote on Twitter on Monday morning : `` These demonstrations have been subverted by thuggery .
Justice will follow . ''
Policing minister Kit Malthouse told Sky News : `` The way we do things in this country is by democratic process , not by mob rule .
`` Undoubtedly in what was done to that statue , a crime was committed .
An investigation should be under way and I hope that prosecutions will follow .
`` We ca n't have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these comments , Mr Rees said : `` I do n't think that 's a very helpful way to describe it .
`` I think the home secretary is showing a lack of understanding of where the country is right now .
`` I would love to hear some outrage about the 25 % of kids in my city who live in poverty , the growing inequality , the deaths in custody both here and in the United States , the militarisation of US streets , the Windrush scandal .
`` You ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the statue should not have been removed by the protesters , but added it was wrong for it to have remained in place for so long .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He told LBC Radio : `` It should n't be done in that way .
Completely wrong to pull a statue down like that . ''
In London , 36 people were arrested and 35 officers injured during Sunday 's protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these were for public order offences , while one was for criminal damage following an incident at the Cenotaph .
On Saturday , 29 people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital .
The Bristol protests were attended by an estimated 10,000 people and there were no arrests , police said .
Avon and Somerset Police has said it is investigating after a `` small group '' committed criminal damage .
Colston made his fortune off the back of the slave trade in the 17th century and helped build schools , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bristol .
A petition to remove the statue - which had stood for more than 120 years - had received 11,000 signatures .
Analysis - It 's not sat comfortably that such a man should be celebrated By Becky Johnson , Sky News correspondent , in Bristol The mood here is really reflective .
Quite a number of people have gathered , people have come to take photographs of the plinth where , until yesterday , the statue stood .
The vast majority of people agree with what the protesters did .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to think that this statue had no place in the centre of Bristol in the present day .
Edward Colston was a big part of this city 's history .
This street is called Colston Avenue , there 's a tower just across the road called Colston Tower , there 's a school named after him .
He spent a lot of money in Bristol on schools , churches , but that wealth came from the slave trade .
It 's not comfortably sat with many Bristolians for quite a number of years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebrated .

The slave trader statue that was toppled in Bristol was an "affront", the city's mayor has said - but it will still "highly likely" end up in a museum.
Speaking on Kay Burley@Breakfast, Marvin Rees said that "as an elected politician I cannot condone criminal damage".
But he added: "I can't pretend, as the son of a Jamaican migrant myself, that the presence of that statue to a slave trader in the middle of the city was anything other than a personal affront to me and people like me."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 Bristol mayor: Slave trader statue to be retrieved from water
Mr Rees continued: "We will get the statue back and it will highly likely end up in one of our museums.
"What's happened to this statue is part of this city's history and it's part of that statue's story."
The statue of Edward Colston was yanked off its plinth and later sprayed with paint and dumped in the city's harbour during protests in support of the Black Lives Matter movement on Sunday.
On Monday, a hand-written sign was attached to the empty plinth by a member of the public, saying: "This plaque is dedicated to the slaves that were taken from their homes."
The Lord Mayor of Cardiff, meanwhile, has called for the city's statue of "sadistic" slave owner Sir Thomas Picton to be removed.
The killing of George Floyd in police custody in the US has sparked demonstrations around the world, including in the UK.
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Image: A member of the public attaches a sign to the plinth from which Edward Colston's statue was ripped down
While the protesters here have voiced their anger at the killing of Mr Floyd, they have also sought to highlight issues faced by black people in the UK and call for action to tackle racial injustice.
Thousands turned out across the UK for the demonstrations, despite warnings for people not to gather during the coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking in the wake of the Bristol incident and further clashes between protesters and the police in London, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the anti-racism protests have been "subverted by thuggery" that betrays their cause.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Bristol incident was "utterly disgraceful" and would detract from the protesters' cause.
"Sheer vandalism and disorder is completely unacceptable," she said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 Home Secretary Priti Patel: Police 'have my full backing'
Ms Patel wrote on Twitter on Monday morning: "These demonstrations have been subverted by thuggery. Justice will follow."
Policing minister Kit Malthouse told Sky News: "The way we do things in this country is by democratic process, not by mob rule.
"Undoubtedly in what was done to that statue, a crime was committed. An investigation should be under way and I hope that prosecutions will follow.
"We can't have decisions by mob."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:32 Policing minister condemns Bristol 'mob rule'
Asked about these comments, Mr Rees said: "I don't think that's a very helpful way to describe it.
"I think the home secretary is showing a lack of understanding of where the country is right now.
"I would love to hear some outrage about the 25% of kids in my city who live in poverty, the growing inequality, the deaths in custody both here and in the United States, the militarisation of US streets, the Windrush scandal.
"You can't be selective with your outrage."
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the statue should not have been removed by the protesters, but added it was wrong for it to have remained in place for so long.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He told LBC Radio: "It shouldn't be done in that way. Completely wrong to pull a statue down like that."
In London, 36 people were arrested and 35 officers injured during Sunday's protests.
The Metropolitan Police said most of these were for public order offences, while one was for criminal damage following an incident at the Cenotaph.
On Saturday, 29 people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 PM: UK protests 'subverted by thuggery'
The Bristol protests were attended by an estimated 10,000 people and there were no arrests, police said.
Avon and Somerset Police has said it is investigating after a "small group" committed criminal damage.
Colston made his fortune off the back of the slave trade in the 17th century and helped build schools, churches and homes for the poor in Bristol.
A petition to remove the statue - which had stood for more than 120 years - had received 11,000 signatures.
Analysis - It's not sat comfortably that such a man should be celebrated
By Becky Johnson, Sky News correspondent, in Bristol
The mood here is really reflective. Quite a number of people have gathered, people have come to take photographs of the plinth where, until yesterday, the statue stood.
The vast majority of people agree with what the protesters did.
The people we've been speaking to seem to think that this statue had no place in the centre of Bristol in the present day.
Edward Colston was a big part of this city's history.
This street is called Colston Avenue, there's a tower just across the road called Colston Tower, there's a school named after him.
He spent a lot of money in Bristol on schools, churches, but that wealth came from the slave trade.
It's not comfortably sat with many Bristolians for quite a number of years now that such a man should be celebrated.


news--2020-05-20--Cyclone Amphan could be the result of falling pollution, climate scientist claims

A super cyclone that has hit Bangladesh and parts of India may have been whipped up partly as a result of reduced levels of air pollution from the coronavirus lockdown , according to a climate scientist .
Cyclone Amphan was ranked as the strongest ever tropical storm in the Bay of Bengal earlier this week with wind speeds of 270mph , but the vortex has eased to 120mph as the weather system made landfall at the border between the two countries .
Professor Vinoj Velu , of the Indian Institute of Technology , Bhubaneswar , said the economic shut down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particles in the atmosphere , allowing more of the sun 's energy to reach the sea .
He said : `` The global warming effect , which tends to increase the strength of cyclones , is now amplified due to this human-induced lockdown effect .
`` This may be the reason why Amphan has strengthened into a super cyclone , the second one only to the 1999 super cyclone . ''
The wind speed in cyclones is largely determined by the temperature of the sea .
Monitoring buoys in the Bay of Bengal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 34C during the first two weeks of May .
Dr Roxy Mathew Koll , a lead author of the recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report on the oceans , said the rising temperature was part of a long-term trend .
`` We have never seen such high values until now , '' he said .
`` These high temperatures can supercharge cyclones since they primarily draw their energy from evaporation at the ocean surface . ''
In just 24 hours the wind speed of Cyclone Amphan increased from just 50mph to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned that the V-shape of the Bay has funnelled a seawater storm surge of between 3 and 5 metres , which will submerge villages several miles inland .
The coast is low-lying and already vulnerable to flooding because the sea level has risen by more than 23cm in recent decades .
At least two million people have been evacuated from coastal villages in Bangladesh .
Amphan is expected to continue north east into Bhutan in the coming days .
The Odisha cyclone in October 1999 killed almost 10,000 people .

A super cyclone that has hit Bangladesh and parts of India may have been whipped up partly as a result of reduced levels of air pollution from the coronavirus lockdown, according to a climate scientist.
Cyclone Amphan was ranked as the strongest ever tropical storm in the Bay of Bengal earlier this week with wind speeds of 270mph, but the vortex has eased to 120mph as the weather system made landfall at the border between the two countries.
Professor Vinoj Velu, of the Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar, said the economic shut down across South Asia had significantly reduced sooty particles in the atmosphere, allowing more of the sun's energy to reach the sea.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:41 Millions flee as Cyclone Amphan approaches India
He said: "The global warming effect, which tends to increase the strength of cyclones, is now amplified due to this human-induced lockdown effect.
"This may be the reason why Amphan has strengthened into a super cyclone, the second one only to the 1999 super cyclone."
The wind speed in cyclones is largely determined by the temperature of the sea.
Monitoring buoys in the Bay of Bengal show the water reached a record high of 34C during the first two weeks of May.
Dr Roxy Mathew Koll, a lead author of the recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report on the oceans, said the rising temperature was part of a long-term trend.
"We have never seen such high values until now," he said.
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Image: It could have been triggered by a fall in pollution levels
"These high temperatures can supercharge cyclones since they primarily draw their energy from evaporation at the ocean surface."
Unusually warm water also drives rapid intensification of tropical storms.
In just 24 hours the wind speed of Cyclone Amphan increased from just 50mph to more than 130mph.
Indian meteorologists have warned that the V-shape of the Bay has funnelled a seawater storm surge of between 3 and 5 metres, which will submerge villages several miles inland.
Image: At least two million people were evacuated from coastal villages in Bangladesh
The coast is low-lying and already vulnerable to flooding because the sea level has risen by more than 23cm in recent decades.
At least two million people have been evacuated from coastal villages in Bangladesh. Amphan is expected to continue north east into Bhutan in the coming days.
The Odisha cyclone in October 1999 killed almost 10,000 people.


news--2020-06-08--Coronavirus: BP plans to cut 15% of global workforce due to drop in demand

BP has said it plans to cut 15 % of its global workforce as a response to the drop in demand for fuel caused by the coronavirus crisis .
Chief executive Bernard Looney first told colleagues in a conference call that the company will cut 10,000 jobs from its current strength of 70,000 employees - most of them by the end of the year .
The company will cut 2,000 jobs in the UK alone but in a follow-up email to staff Mr Looney said most jobs lost will be office-based , `` not front-line operation roles '' .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ axing one in three senior level roles from its current 400 group leaders , as well as freezing pay for those that remain for the rest of the year .
He said : `` These are tough decisions to make .
But the impact - particularly on those leaving us - is much , much tougher .
`` I understand this and I am sorry .
But we must do the right thing for BP and this is that right thing . ''
Mr Looney , who took over as chief executive in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ annual pay rises to its junior and mid-graded staff from October .
5,000 of BP 's retail staff in the UK will also see an 5 % average increase in wages as it introduces `` Real Living Wage '' across the country .
He added : `` It will help strengthen our finances .
And it will help create a leaner , faster-moving and more competitive company for the majority who are staying . ''
The entire oil sector has faced intense pressure since nationwide lockdowns around the world caused a steep drop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into negative territory for the first time in its history .
The FTSE 100 company said it will reduce wage bills by more than $ 2.5bn by 2021 -- as it was currently spending $ 8bn annually on its workforce .
It will also reduce its capital expenditure by 25 % , or £3bn in 2020 .
In February , the new chief executive set out a plan to `` reinvent '' the oil company within a new global energy system to help tackle climate change .
BP had said the strategy included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 2050 , if not before .
Mr Looney added : `` To me , the broader economic picture and our own financial position just reaffirm the need to reinvent BP . ''
BP shares , 22 % down in the year to date , ended Monday 's trading 1 % up .

BP has said it plans to cut 15% of its global workforce as a response to the drop in demand for fuel caused by the coronavirus crisis.
Chief executive Bernard Looney first told colleagues in a conference call that the company will cut 10,000 jobs from its current strength of 70,000 employees - most of them by the end of the year.
The company will cut 2,000 jobs in the UK alone but in a follow-up email to staff Mr Looney said most jobs lost will be office-based, "not front-line operation roles".
The reduction in head count will also involve axing one in three senior level roles from its current 400 group leaders, as well as freezing pay for those that remain for the rest of the year.
He said: "These are tough decisions to make. But the impact - particularly on those leaving us - is much, much tougher.
"I understand this and I am sorry. But we must do the right thing for BP and this is that right thing."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:22 How will oil slump hit the economy?
Mr Looney, who took over as chief executive in February, said the company will reinstate annual pay rises to its junior and mid-graded staff from October.
5,000 of BP's retail staff in the UK will also see an 5% average increase in wages as it introduces "Real Living Wage" across the country.
He added: "It will help strengthen our finances. And it will help create a leaner, faster-moving and more competitive company for the majority who are staying."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:33 Oil prices fall below zero as demand plummets
The entire oil sector has faced intense pressure since nationwide lockdowns around the world caused a steep drop in demand for oil, sending prices into negative territory for the first time in its history.
The FTSE 100 company said it will reduce wage bills by more than $2.5bn by 2021 -- as it was currently spending $8bn annually on its workforce. It will also reduce its capital expenditure by 25%, or £3bn in 2020.
In February, the new chief executive set out a plan to "reinvent" the oil company within a new global energy system to help tackle climate change. BP had said the strategy included a goal of becoming net carbon zero by 2050, if not before.
Mr Looney added: "To me, the broader economic picture and our own financial position just reaffirm the need to reinvent BP."
BP shares, 22% down in the year to date, ended Monday's trading 1% up.


news--2020-06-08--George Floyd protests: Priti Patel recalls childhood racial slurs as she condemns 'hooliganism' towa

George Floyd protests: Priti Patel recalls childhood racial slurs as she condemns 'hooliganism' towards police

Home Secretary Priti Patel has rejected claims the government does n't understand racial inequality as she recounted being called a `` P**i '' as a child in the playground .
Following a weekend of protests across the UK as part of the Black Lives Matter campaign , Ms Patel condemned a `` lawless minority '' who `` regrettably turned to violence '' during the demonstrations .
She denounced the `` hooliganism '' towards `` courageous '' police officers in central London .
In a statement to the House of Commons , the home secretary revealed 200 protests took place across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in attendance and 135 arrests as of Monday morning .
She urged the public not to attend future protests amid the continuing coronavirus pandemic and claimed it was `` not for mobs '' to tear down statues , following the toppling of a monument to a slave trader in Bristol .
Ms Patel also told the Commons of her personal experiences of racism in the UK , warning that she would `` not take lectures '' from opposition MPs over the issue .
The home secretary made the remarks in response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Patel whether she does `` actually understand the anger and frustration felt by so many people '' in the UK .
`` Does the home secretary recognise that there is structural inequality , discrimination and racism in our country ?
, '' Ms Eshalomi said .
She added : `` Black lives matter and we need to see this government doing something about that . ''
Ms Patel said the Labour MP had `` effectively said that this government does n't understand racial inequality '' .
She added : `` Well , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a very different home secretary who as a child was frequently called a P**i in the playground .
`` A very different home secretary who was racially abused in the streets or even advised to drop her surname and use her husband 's in order to advance her career .
`` A different home secretary recently characterised in The Guardian newspaper as a fat cow with a ring through its nose - something that was not only racist but offensive , both culturally and religiously . ''
Ms Patel continued : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , equality , tolerance or fairness .
`` So , when it comes to racism , sexism , tolerance for social justice , I will not take lectures from the other side of the House .
`` I have already said repeatedly there is no place for racism in our country or in society .
`` And , sadly , too many people are too willing , too casual , to dismiss the contributions of those who do n't necessarily conform to preconceived views or ideologies about how ethnic minorities should behave or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ view , is racist in itself . ''
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Chancellor Rishi Sunak joined Ms Patel in condemning the violence seen at demonstrations , prompted by the killing of George Floyd in America , over the weekend .
`` As a British Asian of course I know that racism exists in this country , '' he said in a statement .
Mr Sunak added : `` To the small minority who committed acts of violence and vandalism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions criminal , but they also perpetuate a dangerous lie : that the temporary excitement of destruction is the same thing as change .
`` You are , and always will be , wrong .
`` But to the last majority who seek only peaceful protest within the law and a better future for themselves and their children : whilst our progress feels slow , I promise you it is permanent . ''
Labour 's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said some of the actions of a minority of protesters were `` unacceptable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We can not allow this moment of global demand for justice to pass without action and we on these benches will be at the forefront of calls for change . ''

Home Secretary Priti Patel has rejected claims the government doesn't understand racial inequality as she recounted being called a "P**i" as a child in the playground.
Following a weekend of protests across the UK as part of the Black Lives Matter campaign, Ms Patel condemned a "lawless minority" who "regrettably turned to violence" during the demonstrations.
She denounced the "hooliganism" towards "courageous" police officers in central London.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:48 Police run from crowds in London protest
In a statement to the House of Commons, the home secretary revealed 200 protests took place across the country, with more than 137,500 people in attendance and 135 arrests as of Monday morning.
She urged the public not to attend future protests amid the continuing coronavirus pandemic and claimed it was "not for mobs" to tear down statues, following the toppling of a monument to a slave trader in Bristol.
Ms Patel also told the Commons of her personal experiences of racism in the UK, warning that she would "not take lectures" from opposition MPs over the issue.
The home secretary made the remarks in response to Labour's Florence Eshalomi, who asked Ms Patel whether she does "actually understand the anger and frustration felt by so many people" in the UK.
"Does the home secretary recognise that there is structural inequality, discrimination and racism in our country?," Ms Eshalomi said.
She added: "Black lives matter and we need to see this government doing something about that."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 Cheers as protesters pull down slave trader statue
Ms Patel said the Labour MP had "effectively said that this government doesn't understand racial inequality".
She added: "Well, on that basis, it must have been a very different home secretary who as a child was frequently called a P**i in the playground.
"A very different home secretary who was racially abused in the streets or even advised to drop her surname and use her husband's in order to advance her career.
"A different home secretary recently characterised in The Guardian newspaper as a fat cow with a ring through its nose - something that was not only racist but offensive, both culturally and religiously."
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Ms Patel continued: "This is hardly an example of respect, equality, tolerance or fairness.
"So, when it comes to racism, sexism, tolerance for social justice, I will not take lectures from the other side of the House.
"I have already said repeatedly there is no place for racism in our country or in society.
"And, sadly, too many people are too willing, too casual, to dismiss the contributions of those who don't necessarily conform to preconceived views or ideologies about how ethnic minorities should behave or think.
"This, in my view, is racist in itself."
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Chancellor Rishi Sunak joined Ms Patel in condemning the violence seen at demonstrations, prompted by the killing of George Floyd in America, over the weekend.
"As a British Asian of course I know that racism exists in this country," he said in a statement.
Mr Sunak added: "To the small minority who committed acts of violence and vandalism last weekend, not only were your actions criminal, but they also perpetuate a dangerous lie: that the temporary excitement of destruction is the same thing as change.
"You are, and always will be, wrong.
"But to the last majority who seek only peaceful protest within the law and a better future for themselves and their children: whilst our progress feels slow, I promise you it is permanent."
Image: Police clashed with protesters at King Charles Street archway in central London
Labour's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said some of the actions of a minority of protesters were "unacceptable".
But he added: "We cannot allow this moment of global demand for justice to pass without action and we on these benches will be at the forefront of calls for change."


news--2020-06-07--Coronavirus: Are political decisions starting to outweigh scientific ones?

A large queue outside the Greenwich branch of Ikea after lockdown restrictions were eased .
Pic : George Cracknell Wright/LNP/Shutterstock With each week that passes , the so-called `` new normal '' evolves again .
Today it 's the introduction of 14-day quarantine at the border .
Next week it 's likely to be the reopening of shops that had been deemed non-essential .
But as each change is made or mooted , the debate over whether the government is moving too quickly , or not quickly enough , evolves with it .
A few weeks ago the narrative was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the `` hawk '' prime minister who had been reluctant to impose a lockdown , transformed by his personal experience in hospital to become a `` dove '' convinced both of its efficacy and on-going necessity .
Now it appears to have changed again , with The Sunday Times reporting that the prospect of 3.5 million imminent job losses in the hospitality sector has prompted the Mr Johnson to order a faster lifting of restrictions on pubs and restaurants .
Asked by Sky 's Sophy Ridge whether this account was accurate , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach was not being buffeted by a change of priorities .
`` The plan and the strategy has n't changed , '' Matt Hancock responded .
`` We 've got a clear plan and we 're working through that plan ... and of course , always , always doing that with safety front of mind , cautiously progressing . ''
But if the strategy has not changed , the context certainly has .
The government 's critics have seized upon what they see as the gaps between what ministers had said would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the current reality .
Weeks ago an effective test and trace system , complimented by a dedicated NHSX tracking app , was presented as the means by which restrictions could be eased safely .
While the test and trace system has now been formally launched and `` thousands '' of people have been contacted , no data has yet been published to demonstrate whether it is working effectively .
Neither has any evidence been set out from the Isle of Wight pilot to explain why ministers judged that the scheme was ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's the issue of the coronavirus alert level .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In an address on 10 May , the prime minister suggested the shift from level four to three , set by the newly formed Joint Biosecurity Centre , would be at the heart of determining when relaxations were implemented .
`` If the alert level wo n't allow it , we will simply wait and go on until we have got it right , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the direction of travel is downward , for now the alert level remains at four - meaning the virus is still in general circulation and there is a high or rising level of transmission .
The government 's defence for moving forward with the relaxations is that they have nonetheless satisfied the five tests previously set , which included ensuring the NHS would not be overwhelmed , and seeing a consistent fall in the number of deaths and new cases .
But in his interview on Sky News , Mr Hancock also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision based not just on the specifics of the science , but the politics of the pandemic .
`` They advise us and we as ministers , democratically elected , make the decisions .
That 's how it works and the level is clearly moving from four to three and the reason for that is because we can see that the number of new infections is coming down . ''
That response indicates that even if the government 's strategy has n't changed , the extent to which it is conditionally dependent on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's the kind of shift which makes far more plausible the idea that the two-metre social distancing rule could be reduced in future , despite advice to the contrary from the government 's scientific advisers .
Indeed if the headline statistics continue to show the rate of daily deaths , hospital admissions and new cases lowering , ministers may well become more confident in justifying the apparent evolution in their approach .
But that also means the gradual shift from the `` new normal '' to something more akin to the old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministerial interpretation of the balance between public health and the economy .
The distinction between the decision-makers and the advisers has always existed , but it is now more pronounced than at any other point in this crisis , as is the degree of responsibility each will ultimately hold .

With each lockdown change, the debate over whether the government is moving too quickly, or not quickly enough, evolves with it.
A large queue outside the Greenwich branch of Ikea after lockdown restrictions were eased. Pic: George Cracknell Wright/LNP/Shutterstock
With each week that passes, the so-called "new normal" evolves again.
Today it's the introduction of 14-day quarantine at the border. Next week it's likely to be the reopening of shops that had been deemed non-essential.
But as each change is made or mooted, the debate over whether the government is moving too quickly, or not quickly enough, evolves with it.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:17 Boris Johnson announces an easing of restrictions
A few weeks ago the narrative was of Boris Johnson's apparent volte-face - the "hawk" prime minister who had been reluctant to impose a lockdown, transformed by his personal experience in hospital to become a "dove" convinced both of its efficacy and on-going necessity.
Now it appears to have changed again, with The Sunday Times reporting that the prospect of 3.5 million imminent job losses in the hospitality sector has prompted the Mr Johnson to order a faster lifting of restrictions on pubs and restaurants.
Asked by Sky's Sophy Ridge whether this account was accurate, the health secretary was insistent the government's approach was not being buffeted by a change of priorities.
"The plan and the strategy hasn't changed," Matt Hancock responded.
"We've got a clear plan and we're working through that plan... and of course, always, always doing that with safety front of mind, cautiously progressing."
But if the strategy has not changed, the context certainly has.
Advertisement
Image: The COVID alert system being used by the government
The government's critics have seized upon what they see as the gaps between what ministers had said would be required for measures to be relaxed, and the current reality.
Weeks ago an effective test and trace system, complimented by a dedicated NHSX tracking app, was presented as the means by which restrictions could be eased safely.
While the test and trace system has now been formally launched and "thousands" of people have been contacted, no data has yet been published to demonstrate whether it is working effectively.
Neither has any evidence been set out from the Isle of Wight pilot to explain why ministers judged that the scheme was ready for a national roll-out.
Then there's the issue of the coronavirus alert level.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In an address on 10 May, the prime minister suggested the shift from level four to three, set by the newly formed Joint Biosecurity Centre, would be at the heart of determining when relaxations were implemented.
"If the alert level won't allow it, we will simply wait and go on until we have got it right," Mr Johnson said.
Although ministers stress that the direction of travel is downward, for now the alert level remains at four - meaning the virus is still in general circulation and there is a high or rising level of transmission.
The government's defence for moving forward with the relaxations is that they have nonetheless satisfied the five tests previously set, which included ensuring the NHS would not be overwhelmed, and seeing a consistent fall in the number of deaths and new cases.
But in his interview on Sky News, Mr Hancock also acknowledged this was an example of a decision based not just on the specifics of the science, but the politics of the pandemic.
"They advise us and we as ministers, democratically elected, make the decisions. That's how it works and the level is clearly moving from four to three and the reason for that is because we can see that the number of new infections is coming down."
That response indicates that even if the government's strategy hasn't changed, the extent to which it is conditionally dependent on the scientists' advice clearly has.
It's the kind of shift which makes far more plausible the idea that the two-metre social distancing rule could be reduced in future, despite advice to the contrary from the government's scientific advisers.
Indeed if the headline statistics continue to show the rate of daily deaths, hospital admissions and new cases lowering, ministers may well become more confident in justifying the apparent evolution in their approach.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:17 How should the UK economy be structured?
But that also means the gradual shift from the "new normal" to something more akin to the old has become far more dependent on the ministerial interpretation of the balance between public health and the economy.
The distinction between the decision-makers and the advisers has always existed, but it is now more pronounced than at any other point in this crisis, as is the degree of responsibility each will ultimately hold.


news--2020-06-08--Two men charged with murder of 'much-loved' university graduate David Allan

Two men have been charged with the murder of a 23-year-old university graduate who died after a vicious street assault in south Manchester .
David Allan , who had hopes of becoming a quantity surveyor , died in hospital on Friday , a day after he was attacked in Wythenshawe at around 6pm .
On Monday , Greater Manchester Police said two men , Joseph Stott , 33 , and Aiden Matthews , 30 , had been charged with his murder .
Matthews is also charged with possession of an offensive weapon .
The pair were due to appear at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Police launched a murder inquiry following Mr Allan 's death and made a number of arrests .
In a statement , Mr Allan 's family said David was a `` much-loved son '' .
They added : `` He recently graduated from Plymouth University and had until very recently been working at WHSmith in the royal infirmary despite the coronavirus outbreak , cheerfully serving key workers , patients and visitors alike .
`` David was saving his wages to take driving lessons to pursue his career goal of becoming a quantity surveyor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a `` keen and active sportsman '' and had been a member of the university hockey team .
`` At school he loved to fence and shared this passion with children , coaching them at Birmingham University every Saturday , '' the statement said '' He will be very much missed . ''
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Clitherow said : `` This was a vicious assault which has ultimately resulted in the death of a man and the launch of a murder investigation .
`` Our thoughts are with the man 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my condolences at this unimaginable time . ''
A man , aged 39 , and a 42-year-old woman were arrested on Thursday but have since been released under investigation .
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 6198 quoting incident number 2099 of 04/06/20 .
Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Two men have been charged with the murder of a 23-year-old university graduate who died after a vicious street assault in south Manchester.
David Allan, who had hopes of becoming a quantity surveyor, died in hospital on Friday, a day after he was attacked in Wythenshawe at around 6pm.
On Monday, Greater Manchester Police said two men, Joseph Stott, 33, and Aiden Matthews, 30, had been charged with his murder.
Matthews is also charged with possession of an offensive weapon.
The pair were due to appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Monday morning.
Police launched a murder inquiry following Mr Allan's death and made a number of arrests.
In a statement, Mr Allan's family said David was a "much-loved son".
They added: "He recently graduated from Plymouth University and had until very recently been working at WHSmith in the royal infirmary despite the coronavirus outbreak, cheerfully serving key workers, patients and visitors alike.
"David was saving his wages to take driving lessons to pursue his career goal of becoming a quantity surveyor."
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Mr Allan was also described as a "keen and active sportsman" and had been a member of the university hockey team.
"At school he loved to fence and shared this passion with children, coaching them at Birmingham University every Saturday," the statement said
"He will be very much missed."
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Clitherow said: "This was a vicious assault which has ultimately resulted in the death of a man and the launch of a murder investigation.
"Our thoughts are with the man's loved ones - to whom I send my condolences at this unimaginable time."
A man, aged 39, and a 42-year-old woman were arrested on Thursday but have since been released under investigation.
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 6198 quoting incident number 2099 of 04/06/20. Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111


news--2020-04-13--More young British men 'exploring' online paedophilia, police warn

A police chief has warned that more British men aged between 18 and 26 are looking at child abuse images online after becoming `` desensitised '' to legal pornography .
Norfolk Police Chief Constable Simon Bailey , the national police lead for child protection , said younger men are emerging as a `` new group '' of online paedophiles .
Speaking to the Internet Watch Foundation ( IWF ) , Mr Bailey said : `` What we are seeing is a new group of young men aged between 18 and 26 who have been brought up on a staple diet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like that , '' he said .
`` They get to the point where there 's no pornographic material that is stimulating them so then they start to explore what child abuse imagery might look like .
`` They start getting their kicks from that . ''
The UK is the third biggest consumer of online child sexual abuse content , according to Mr Bailey .
He said Britain 's response is `` the best in the world bar none '' but was still not enough to tackle the issue .
The number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` just keep growing '' , he said , despite forces each month arresting around 500 offenders and safeguarding 700 children .
He also fears the problem could get worse due to advances in technology around the world .
`` You look at the opportunities that will be afforded by people who are living in poverty to then exploit children to generate income , '' he said .
`` We have got to start being very honest about this , we have got to start debating this more in public . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terms with the fact that there are some appalling things taking place online that unfortunately the internet is probably the root of most of the evils .
`` We have to start looking at that and we have to start genuinely asking the question , how much more are we going to tolerate ? ''
It follows a warning from investigators that children are at extra risk from online abuse during the coronavirus lockdown .
The National Crime Agency says there are currently at least 300,000 sex abusers posing a threat , some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the school shutdown .

A police chief has warned that more British men aged between 18 and 26 are looking at child abuse images online after becoming "desensitised" to legal pornography.
Norfolk Police Chief Constable Simon Bailey, the national police lead for child protection, said younger men are emerging as a "new group" of online paedophiles.
Speaking to the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), Mr Bailey said: "What we are seeing is a new group of young men aged between 18 and 26 who have been brought up on a staple diet of going to visit Pornhub and sites like that," he said.
"They get to the point where there's no pornographic material that is stimulating them so then they start to explore what child abuse imagery might look like.
"They start getting their kicks from that."
The UK is the third biggest consumer of online child sexual abuse content, according to Mr Bailey.
He said Britain's response is "the best in the world bar none" but was still not enough to tackle the issue.
The number of referrals and the level of depravity "just keep growing", he said, despite forces each month arresting around 500 offenders and safeguarding 700 children.
He also fears the problem could get worse due to advances in technology around the world.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:20 Childine counselling thousands of sex victims
"You look at the opportunities that will be afforded by people who are living in poverty to then exploit children to generate income," he said.
"We have got to start being very honest about this, we have got to start debating this more in public."
"We've got to start coming to terms with the fact that there are some appalling things taking place online that unfortunately the internet is probably the root of most of the evils.
"We have to start looking at that and we have to start genuinely asking the question, how much more are we going to tolerate?"
It follows a warning from investigators that children are at extra risk from online abuse during the coronavirus lockdown.
The National Crime Agency says there are currently at least 300,000 sex abusers posing a threat, some of whom are discussing how to exploit the school shutdown.