news--2020-05-08--Coronavirus: Lockdown extends Britain's longest run without coal since 1882

For the first time since 1882 , Great Britain has gone more than 28 days without using coal , and the lockdown is contributing to keeping power consumption low .
The use of coal power in the UK has been falling for years but the COVID-19 lockdown as well as the warm weather in April have contributed to this long run by reducing power consumption .
The bank holiday weekend , beginning with commemorations of VE Day on Friday , is expected to lead to a further drop .
The record previously stood at 18 days and was set last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stretch even further as Sky New understands there is no expectation coal will be brought onto the system this weekend .
According to the government 's current plans , none of the National Grid 's electricity will be supplied by coal power by 2025 , although the last coal plant in the UK could close as early as 2022 .
Since 2015 the UK has reduced its coal use by 92 % while almost doubling the amount of electricity generated by wind power , and now the UK 's last coal generator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April .
This February also set a record for the greenest month of record for UK electricity generation , with the lowest ever measure of carbon emissions for kilowatt hour of electricity consumed .
Fintan Slye , director of National Grid ESO - the utility company 's independent electricity system operator - said 2020 was `` shaping up to be a record-breaking year for Great Britain 's electricity system '' .
`` Within a matter of days we 've seen a new solar generation record , and the longest period of coal-free operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` And that follows two of the greenest months on record at the start of the year , underlining the progress that 's being made towards our target of being able to operate the electricity system entirely with zero carbon sources by 2025 . ''
The minister for Energy and Clean Growth , Kwasi Kwarteng , told Sky News : `` This record-breaking stretch shows that Britain now barely depends at all on coal to meet our energy needs , which is testament to our world-leading low-carbon energy industry .
`` As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climate change entirely by 2050 , it 's great to see green energy continuing to go from strength to strength , even during this difficult time . ''
Around the world the coronavirus lockdowns have resulted in unexpected environmental benefits , causing carbon emissions to fall and air quality to rise .
The low demand for power caused concern for the National Grid as an over-supply may lead to blackouts , although energy regulator Ofgem clarified that it had the power to switch off regional generators to prevent issues on the grid .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ been substantial and could get worse .
According to a prediction based on a Bank of England scenario , the UK 's GDP will fall 14 % this year - its worst annual slump for more than three centuries - and the jobless rate will hit 8 % .
But the scenario also sees a rapid recovery from the slump when the cogs of the economy pick up pace , with GDP surging by 15 % in 2021 .

For the first time since 1882, Great Britain has gone more than 28 days without using coal, and the lockdown is contributing to keeping power consumption low.
The use of coal power in the UK has been falling for years but the COVID-19 lockdown as well as the warm weather in April have contributed to this long run by reducing power consumption.
The bank holiday weekend, beginning with commemorations of VE Day on Friday, is expected to lead to a further drop.
The record previously stood at 18 days and was set last year, but this run is expected to stretch even further as Sky New understands there is no expectation coal will be brought onto the system this weekend.
According to the government's current plans, none of the National Grid's electricity will be supplied by coal power by 2025, although the last coal plant in the UK could close as early as 2022.
Since 2015 the UK has reduced its coal use by 92% while almost doubling the amount of electricity generated by wind power, and now the UK's last coal generator has been offline since midnight on 9 April.
This February also set a record for the greenest month of record for UK electricity generation, with the lowest ever measure of carbon emissions for kilowatt hour of electricity consumed.
Fintan Slye, director of National Grid ESO - the utility company's independent electricity system operator - said 2020 was "shaping up to be a record-breaking year for Great Britain's electricity system".
"Within a matter of days we've seen a new solar generation record, and the longest period of coal-free operation in Britain," Mr Slye added.
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"And that follows two of the greenest months on record at the start of the year, underlining the progress that's being made towards our target of being able to operate the electricity system entirely with zero carbon sources by 2025."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:43 UK marks 75th anniversary of WWII victory in Europe
The minister for Energy and Clean Growth, Kwasi Kwarteng, told Sky News: "This record-breaking stretch shows that Britain now barely depends at all on coal to meet our energy needs, which is testament to our world-leading low-carbon energy industry.
"As we move to end our contribution to climate change entirely by 2050, it's great to see green energy continuing to go from strength to strength, even during this difficult time."
Around the world the coronavirus lockdowns have resulted in unexpected environmental benefits, causing carbon emissions to fall and air quality to rise.
The low demand for power caused concern for the National Grid as an over-supply may lead to blackouts, although energy regulator Ofgem clarified that it had the power to switch off regional generators to prevent issues on the grid.
But the economic impact on industry has been substantial and could get worse.
Image: GDP could drop 14% this year before rebounding 15% in 2021. Source: BoE/ONS
According to a prediction based on a Bank of England scenario, the UK's GDP will fall 14% this year - its worst annual slump for more than three centuries - and the jobless rate will hit 8%.
But the scenario also sees a rapid recovery from the slump when the cogs of the economy pick up pace, with GDP surging by 15% in 2021.


news--2020-05-12--Unaccompanied children among 50 migrants arriving in UK from camps in Greece

A group of 50 asylum-seekers and migrants , including 16 unaccompanied children rescued from camps , have flown into the UK from Greece to be reunited with their families .
The group departed Athens on Monday morning , arriving at Heathrow Airport , west London , a few hours later .
Some 130 Greek nationals stranded in the UK because of the coronavirus lockdown are being flown back to Greece in a scheme delayed by the global pandemic .
The Greek migration ministry confirmed the number of minors and said it hopes to gradually relocate around 1,600 vulnerable persons from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming months .
Tens of thousands of refugees and migrants , including thousands of unaccompanied children , are living in squalid conditions in overcrowded camps on several Greek islands after arriving from the nearby Turkish coast .
Others are staying in camps , apartments and other shelters across the mainland .
So far , Luxembourg has taken 12 children and Germany nearly 50 , while Finland is to take about 100 later this month .
Greek government spokesman Stelios Petsas said that a further 22 people are to be relocated to Switzerland .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ happen in March , took place under the Dublin Treaty , which allows families to be reunited if a close relative is already in the country of destination .
Delayed by the coronavirus lockdown , it went ahead following an easing of Greek restrictions on 4 May .
Deputy migration minister Giorgos Koumoutsakos said at Athens airport .
`` Today the lives of the people who are leaving is changing . ''
`` The coronavirus was an additional procedural challenge but as you can see it was not an obstacle , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boarded the aircraft .
Beth Gardiner-Smith , chief executive of refugee charity Safe Passage International , which supported the initiative , said in a statement : `` The British and Greek governments have shown real leadership in reuniting these families despite the travel difficulties . ''
Thousands of migrants and refugees fleeing conflicts and poverty in their countries became stuck in Greece when the flow was stopped in 2016 .

A group of 50 asylum-seekers and migrants, including 16 unaccompanied children rescued from camps, have flown into the UK from Greece to be reunited with their families.
The group departed Athens on Monday morning, arriving at Heathrow Airport, west London, a few hours later.
Some 130 Greek nationals stranded in the UK because of the coronavirus lockdown are being flown back to Greece in a scheme delayed by the global pandemic.
Image: The group will be reunited with their families in Britain
Image: The refugees and migrants board the plane at Athens International Airport
The Greek migration ministry confirmed the number of minors and said it hopes to gradually relocate around 1,600 vulnerable persons from its refugee camps to other countries in coming months.
Tens of thousands of refugees and migrants, including thousands of unaccompanied children, are living in squalid conditions in overcrowded camps on several Greek islands after arriving from the nearby Turkish coast.
Others are staying in camps, apartments and other shelters across the mainland.
So far, Luxembourg has taken 12 children and Germany nearly 50, while Finland is to take about 100 later this month.
Greek government spokesman Stelios Petsas said that a further 22 people are to be relocated to Switzerland.
The transfer, which was supposed to happen in March, took place under the Dublin Treaty, which allows families to be reunited if a close relative is already in the country of destination.
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Image: British ambassador to Greece, Kate Smith (C), was there to see the refugees depart
Delayed by the coronavirus lockdown, it went ahead following an easing of Greek restrictions on 4 May.
Deputy migration minister Giorgos Koumoutsakos said at Athens airport. "Today the lives of the people who are leaving is changing."
"The coronavirus was an additional procedural challenge but as you can see it was not an obstacle," he added.
The group waved as they boarded the aircraft.
Beth Gardiner-Smith, chief executive of refugee charity Safe Passage International, which supported the initiative, said in a statement: "The British and Greek governments have shown real leadership in reuniting these families despite the travel difficulties."
Thousands of migrants and refugees fleeing conflicts and poverty in their countries became stuck in Greece when the flow was stopped in 2016.


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: McDonald's announces phase two of plan to reopen its restaurants

McDonald 's is to reopen 30 drive-through restaurants next week , the fast food chain has announced .
It will open its first 15 pilot restaurants from 11am on Wednesday for deliveries only , before service resumes at another 30 sites in the UK and Ireland for drive-through customers only on Wednesday 20 May .
It has yet to reveal the location of the drive-through sites that will reopen .
It came as sandwich chain Subway reopened more than 600 of its UK stores on Tuesday for delivery and takeaway for the first time since the COVID-19 lockdown .
McDonald @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of its drive-through sites by early June , in line with government coronavirus guidelines .
The amount customers can spend will be capped to £25 per car and all will be asked to use contactless payment .
The chain had already announced safety measures including contactless thermometers for staff , Perspex screens and protective equipment .
Paul Pomroy , McDonald 's chief executive officer for UK and Ireland , asked customers to be `` patient and supportive '' of staff as sites reopen , warning that service `` will not be as quick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There has been an incredible response to news of our reopening and we know many of you are eager for us to extend our reopening plans at a faster pace , '' he said .
`` The well-being of our employees , suppliers and delivery partners ' couriers is my top priority and we will only extend our plans at a pace that enables us to create a safe working environment for our teams .
`` As we get accustomed to the new processes and procedures , we will look to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and reintroduce more menu items .
`` But only when I am confident we can do so whilst maintaining the new procedures we have introduced for the protection of our people . ''

McDonald's is to reopen 30 drive-through restaurants next week, the fast food chain has announced.
It will open its first 15 pilot restaurants from 11am on Wednesday for deliveries only, before service resumes at another 30 sites in the UK and Ireland for drive-through customers only on Wednesday 20 May.
It has yet to reveal the location of the drive-through sites that will reopen.
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It came as sandwich chain Subway reopened more than 600 of its UK stores on Tuesday for delivery and takeaway for the first time since the COVID-19 lockdown.
McDonald's said it planned to reopen all of its drive-through sites by early June, in line with government coronavirus guidelines.
The amount customers can spend will be capped to £25 per car and all will be asked to use contactless payment.
The chain had already announced safety measures including contactless thermometers for staff, Perspex screens and protective equipment.
Paul Pomroy, McDonald's chief executive officer for UK and Ireland, asked customers to be "patient and supportive" of staff as sites reopen, warning that service "will not be as quick as you might be used to".
"There has been an incredible response to news of our reopening and we know many of you are eager for us to extend our reopening plans at a faster pace," he said.
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"The well-being of our employees, suppliers and delivery partners' couriers is my top priority and we will only extend our plans at a pace that enables us to create a safe working environment for our teams.
"As we get accustomed to the new processes and procedures, we will look to reopen more restaurants, for longer hours and reintroduce more menu items.
"But only when I am confident we can do so whilst maintaining the new procedures we have introduced for the protection of our people."


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: Ryanair plots July return with passengers and crew required to wear face masks

Ryanair plans to restore 40 % of its flight schedule from July , with all crew and passengers required to wear face masks and pass temperature checks .
The budget airline said it hopes to have nearly 1,000 flights per day , with 90 % of its normal network on offer .
This would be dependent on governments lifting restrictions on flights within the European Union , restrictions that were put in place to limit the spread of the coronavirus .
Ryanair said that `` effective public health measures '' such as temperature checks would also be needed at airports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and crew to travel while COVID-19 remains a threat .
Other measures would include fewer checked bags , online check-in , downloading boarding passes to smartphones and social distancing where possible , the airline added .
A limited inflight service will be offered - pre-packaged snacks and drinks and payment to be cashless only .
There will be no queues allowed for toilets , although passengers will be able to request to use the toilet .
During July and August , passengers will also have to give details of their trip at check-in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and their address at their destination .
This information will be given to EU governments to help them monitor any isolation regulations .
Ryanair 's chief executive Eddie Wilson said : `` After four months , it is time to get Europe flying again so we can reunite friends and families , allow people to return to work and restart Europe 's tourism industry , which provides so many millions of jobs .
`` Ryanair will work closely with public health authorities to ensure that these flights comply , where possible , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 .
As already shown in Asia , temperature checks and face masks/coverings are the most effective way to achieve this on short haul ( one hour ) within Europe 's single market . ''
Mr Wilson added that it was hoped the flights would also `` allow those tourism based economies such as Spain , Portugal , Italy , Greece , France and others , to recover what is left of this year 's tourism season '' .
But it might not be that easy .
Earlier , Health Secretary Matt Hancock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept their summer holiday season was cancelled and he replied : `` I think that 's likely to be the case '' .
Also on Tuesday morning , Spain - a popular destination for holidaying Britons - announced a 14-day quarantine for all arrivals from Friday .
The order will affect those arriving until at least 24 May , when the state of emergency if due to end .
It can be extended , however .
Almost two weeks ago , Ryanair announced it was planning to axe 3,000 jobs because of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus crisis .
At the time , the airline said pilots and cabin crew would be most affected and remaining staff faced unpaid leave and having their pay slashed by up to 20 % .
In April , British Airways said it expected to cut a quarter of its pilots as part of wider plans to axe 12,000 jobs due to the pandemic .

Ryanair plans to restore 40% of its flight schedule from July, with all crew and passengers required to wear face masks and pass temperature checks.
The budget airline said it hopes to have nearly 1,000 flights per day, with 90% of its normal network on offer.
This would be dependent on governments lifting restrictions on flights within the European Union, restrictions that were put in place to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
Image: Payment for snacks and drink will be cashless only. Pic: Ryanair
Ryanair said that "effective public health measures" such as temperature checks would also be needed at airports to ensure it is safe for passengers and crew to travel while COVID-19 remains a threat.
Other measures would include fewer checked bags, online check-in, downloading boarding passes to smartphones and social distancing where possible, the airline added.
A limited inflight service will be offered - pre-packaged snacks and drinks and payment to be cashless only. There will be no queues allowed for toilets, although passengers will be able to request to use the toilet.
During July and August, passengers will also have to give details of their trip at check-in, including the duration of their visit and their address at their destination. This information will be given to EU governments to help them monitor any isolation regulations.
Ryanair's chief executive Eddie Wilson said: "After four months, it is time to get Europe flying again so we can reunite friends and families, allow people to return to work and restart Europe's tourism industry, which provides so many millions of jobs.
"Ryanair will work closely with public health authorities to ensure that these flights comply, where possible, with effective measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. As already shown in Asia, temperature checks and face masks/coverings are the most effective way to achieve this on short haul (one hour) within Europe's single market."
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Mr Wilson added that it was hoped the flights would also "allow those tourism based economies such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, France and others, to recover what is left of this year's tourism season".
But it might not be that easy.
Earlier, Health Secretary Matt Hancock was asked on ITV if people should accept their summer holiday season was cancelled and he replied: "I think that's likely to be the case".
Also on Tuesday morning, Spain - a popular destination for holidaying Britons - announced a 14-day quarantine for all arrivals from Friday.
The order will affect those arriving until at least 24 May, when the state of emergency if due to end. It can be extended, however.
Image: Ryanair wants to start flying again this summer
Almost two weeks ago, Ryanair announced it was planning to axe 3,000 jobs because of the collapse in air travel caused by the coronavirus crisis.
At the time, the airline said pilots and cabin crew would be most affected and remaining staff faced unpaid leave and having their pay slashed by up to 20%.
In April, British Airways said it expected to cut a quarter of its pilots as part of wider plans to axe 12,000 jobs due to the pandemic.


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: Tesla boss Elon Musk defies state rules to open California plant

Elon Musk has said Tesla 's sole US car plant has restarted production , defying an order to remain closed during the coronavirus lockdown .
The billionaire , who just days ago threatened to move the facility out of California , said if anyone should be arrested for flouting the rules - it should be him .
His bold move comes as states and cities around the US experiment with ways to safely reopen their economies after the COVID-19 outbreak shuttered businesses and forced millions of Americans out of work .
Over the weekend , Musk threatened to move Tesla @ @ @ @ @ @ @ His move has highlighted the competition for jobs and ignited a rush to woo the executive by states that have reopened their economies more quickly in response to encouragement from Donald Trump .
In an email on Monday , Tesla referred to an order on Thursday by California 's governor allowing manufacturers to resume operations and said that as of Sunday , previously furloughed employees were back to their regular employment status .
`` We 're happy to get back to work and have implemented very detailed plans to help you keep safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the email seen by the Reuters news agency .
Musk in a tweet said production was resuming on Monday , and added that he would join workers on the assembly line .
`` If anyone is arrested , I ask that it only be me , '' he wrote .
Health officials in Alameda County , where the Fremont factory is based , said they were aware that Tesla had opened beyond the so-called minimum basic operations allowed during lockdown , and had notified the company it could not operate without a county-approved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they expected a proposal from Tesla and that the firm would `` comply without further enforcement measures '' .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The county 's lockdown order says violations are punishable by fine , imprisonment or both .
A spokeswoman for the Fremont Police Department said her office was enforcing the lockdown order at the direction of the health department and had been advised that the county is working with Tesla directly .
Meanwhile , earlier US Treasury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whatever is necessary to help the electric carmaker reopen its only US vehicle factory if it wants to keep the company in its state .
California Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday said he spoke to Musk several days ago and that his concerns helped prompt the state to begin its phased reopening of manufacturing last week .
On Saturday Tesla sued the county , alleging it had violated California 's constitution by defying Newsom 's orders allowing manufacturers to reopen .

Elon Musk has said Tesla's sole US car plant has restarted production, defying an order to remain closed during the coronavirus lockdown.
The billionaire, who just days ago threatened to move the facility out of California, said if anyone should be arrested for flouting the rules - it should be him.
His bold move comes as states and cities around the US experiment with ways to safely reopen their economies after the COVID-19 outbreak shuttered businesses and forced millions of Americans out of work.
Over the weekend, Musk threatened to move Tesla's HQ to Texas or Nevada.
His move has highlighted the competition for jobs and ignited a rush to woo the executive by states that have reopened their economies more quickly in response to encouragement from Donald Trump.
Image: Elon Musk says: 'If anyone is arrested, I ask that it only be me.'
In an email on Monday, Tesla referred to an order on Thursday by California's governor allowing manufacturers to resume operations and said that as of Sunday, previously furloughed employees were back to their regular employment status.
"We're happy to get back to work and have implemented very detailed plans to help you keep safe as you return," according to the email seen by the Reuters news agency.
Musk in a tweet said production was resuming on Monday, and added that he would join workers on the assembly line.
"If anyone is arrested, I ask that it only be me," he wrote.
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Health officials in Alameda County, where the Fremont factory is based, said they were aware that Tesla had opened beyond the so-called minimum basic operations allowed during lockdown, and had notified the company it could not operate without a county-approved plan.
In a statement, officials said they expected a proposal from Tesla and that the firm would "comply without further enforcement measures".
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The county's lockdown order says violations are punishable by fine, imprisonment or both.
A spokeswoman for the Fremont Police Department said her office was enforcing the lockdown order at the direction of the health department and had been advised that the county is working with Tesla directly.
Meanwhile, earlier US Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin said California should do whatever is necessary to help the electric carmaker reopen its only US vehicle factory if it wants to keep the company in its state.
California Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday said he spoke to Musk several days ago and that his concerns helped prompt the state to begin its phased reopening of manufacturing last week.
On Saturday Tesla sued the county, alleging it had violated California's constitution by defying Newsom's orders allowing manufacturers to reopen.


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: Prosecution threat for firms who fail to make premises 'COVID secure'

Companies are being threatened with prosecution if they do not make premises `` COVID secure '' for returning workers .
The warning comes as people in England are told to go back to work from Wednesday if they can not do their job from home - such as builders and manufacturers .
Ministers have stressed firms should ensure social distancing stays in place as the lockdown is slowly eased over the next few months to stop the spread of coronavirus , which has already killed 32,692 people in the UK .
Best practice plans have been drawn up by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protected - such as remaining two metres apart , being given face masks or provided with hand sanitiser .
But the Health and Safety Executive ( HSE ) - which will do spot inspections to make sure firms are keeping people safe - has confirmed any that do n't follow the new rules could face legal action .
Chief executive Sarah Albon explained how much power the agency will have to live up to Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s demand for any reopening workplace to be `` COVID-secure '' .
At Downing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Inspectors can require businesses to do certain things - enforcement notices , requiring them to take particular kinds of action .
`` In the most extreme circumstances if there is a risk of serious injury to an individual employee they can issue a notice which prohibits certain activities from taking place .
`` Breach of those kind of enforcement notices is essentially a criminal offence and we can prosecute people who fail to do the right thing . ''
Unions have endorsed the guidelines , TUC general secretary Frances O @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` step in the right direction '' .
She urged : `` All employers must now carry out and publish risk assessments in consultation with unions and their workforces .
`` After the confusion of the last few days , working people will only feel confident if government and employers act now to make safer working a reality in every workplace . ''
The HSE has been granted a 10 % budget increase to spend on equipment , hiring more call centre staff and carrying out more inspections .
Despite the lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , the same measures are remaining in place in Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland .

Companies are being threatened with prosecution if they do not make premises "COVID secure" for returning workers.
The warning comes as people in England are told to go back to work from Wednesday if they cannot do their job from home - such as builders and manufacturers.
Ministers have stressed firms should ensure social distancing stays in place as the lockdown is slowly eased over the next few months to stop the spread of coronavirus, which has already killed 32,692 people in the UK.
Image: More than 32,000 people have died with the virus in the UK
Best practice plans have been drawn up by the government for businesses to ensure workers are protected - such as remaining two metres apart, being given face masks or provided with hand sanitiser.
But the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) - which will do spot inspections to make sure firms are keeping people safe - has confirmed any that don't follow the new rules could face legal action.
Image: Firms that do not protect staff could be prosecuted
Chief executive Sarah Albon explained how much power the agency will have to live up to Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s demand for any reopening workplace to be "COVID-secure".
At Downing Street's daily coronavirus briefing, she said: "Inspectors can require businesses to do certain things - enforcement notices, requiring them to take particular kinds of action.
"In the most extreme circumstances if there is a risk of serious injury to an individual employee they can issue a notice which prohibits certain activities from taking place.
"Breach of those kind of enforcement notices is essentially a criminal offence and we can prosecute people who fail to do the right thing."
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Unions have endorsed the guidelines, TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady saying on Monday they are a "step in the right direction".
She urged: "All employers must now carry out and publish risk assessments in consultation with unions and their workforces.
"After the confusion of the last few days, working people will only feel confident if government and employers act now to make safer working a reality in every workplace."
The HSE has been granted a 10% budget increase to spend on equipment, hiring more call centre staff and carrying out more inspections.
Despite the lockdown changes in England coming into effect on Wednesday, the same measures are remaining in place in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: Government facing lawsuit for 'failing to protect gig economy workers'

A union representing gig economy workers , including Uber drivers and medical couriers , is preparing to sue the government to ensure they are covered by health and safety laws .
According to the Independent Workers ' Union of Great Britain ( IWGB ) , health and safety equipment is being denied to hundreds of thousands of workers who should be legally entitled to it .
Gig economy workers , including security guards and taxi drivers , are among those most likely to die from COVID-19 , according to the Office for National Statistics .
But legal requirements to protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU and British law , because the employment status of these workers is contested .
In the EU , health and safety law covers all workers , but in the UK it only protects employees .
Many companies which use gig economy workers do not class these workers as employees .
Uber has been appealing against successive court cases to reclassify the employment status of its drivers since 2016 .
The IWGB has sent a letter to the government ahead of launching a judicial review to see if the UK has `` failed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety directives from EU law into UK law '' .
According to the union , if the government loses the review it would be forced to `` extend health and safety protections to all 'workers ' , including hundreds of thousands in the so-called 'gig economy ' '' .
Jason Moyer-Lee , IWGB 's general secretary , said : `` As the government looks to ease the lockdown in the midst of the pandemic , health and safety at work has never been more important .
`` It is crucial that exploitative employers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health and safety of their workers and that the government brings the criminal prosecutions necessary to enforce this law .
`` The UK is already compelled by EU law to extend health and safety protections to workers ; it 's a shame the government would rather litigate than comply , '' Mr Moyer-Lee added .
A spokesperson for Uber told Sky News : `` Uber has introduced measures to ensure that every driver can access the PPE they need for free to drive safely on the Uber app .
`` As well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Uber is providing over one million free PPE items , as well as directly reimbursing drivers if they choose to source the required PPE themselves . ''
If you would like to contact Alexander Martin , you can reach him securely using the private messaging app Signal on +44 ( 0 ) 7970 376 704 or at aj.martin @ sky.uk

A union representing gig economy workers, including Uber drivers and medical couriers, is preparing to sue the government to ensure they are covered by health and safety laws.
According to the Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB), health and safety equipment is being denied to hundreds of thousands of workers who should be legally entitled to it.
Gig economy workers, including security guards and taxi drivers, are among those most likely to die from COVID-19, according to the Office for National Statistics.
But legal requirements to protect workers are slipping through the cracks between EU and British law, because the employment status of these workers is contested.
In the EU, health and safety law covers all workers, but in the UK it only protects employees. Many companies which use gig economy workers do not class these workers as employees.
Uber has been appealing against successive court cases to reclassify the employment status of its drivers since 2016.
The IWGB has sent a letter to the government ahead of launching a judicial review to see if the UK has "failed in its obligation to transpose health and safety directives from EU law into UK law".
According to the union, if the government loses the review it would be forced to "extend health and safety protections to all 'workers', including hundreds of thousands in the so-called 'gig economy'".
Image: The IWGB previously challenged Uber over its drivers' employment status
Jason Moyer-Lee, IWGB's general secretary, said: "As the government looks to ease the lockdown in the midst of the pandemic, health and safety at work has never been more important.
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"It is crucial that exploitative employers like Uber know they must protect the health and safety of their workers and that the government brings the criminal prosecutions necessary to enforce this law.
"The UK is already compelled by EU law to extend health and safety protections to workers; it's a shame the government would rather litigate than comply," Mr Moyer-Lee added.
A spokesperson for Uber told Sky News: "Uber has introduced measures to ensure that every driver can access the PPE they need for free to drive safely on the Uber app.
"As well as providing drivers with free sanitising products, Uber is providing over one million free PPE items, as well as directly reimbursing drivers if they choose to source the required PPE themselves."
If you would like to contact Alexander Martin, you can reach him securely using the private messaging app Signal on +44 (0)7970 376 704 or at aj.martin@sky.uk


news--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: PM's lockdown plan raises 'more questions than answers', says Labour leader

Boris Johnson 's address to the nation raised `` more questions than answers '' , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has told Sky News .
Reacting to the prime minister 's speech , Sir Keir said : `` I think what the country wanted tonight was real clarity and a sense of consensus - and I 'm afraid we have n't got that . ''
Mr Johnson set out `` the first careful steps '' in easing the coronavirus lockdown - with people in England allowed to spend more leisure time outside from Wednesday .
And in a bid to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone who can not work from home - such as those in construction and manufacturing - should be `` actively encouraged '' to go to work from Monday .
People are now being told to `` stay alert , control the virus , save lives '' - staying home as much as possible , continuing to keep two metres apart when outside , and limiting contact with other people .
But Sir Keir said this new message `` just is n't clear enough '' .
He continued : `` There are more questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement .
`` We now have the prospect of England , Scotland and Wales with different messages and pulling in different directions .
`` That clarity is n't there , that consensus is n't there .
`` I appreciate there will be more detail tomorrow and there 'll be further questions to be asked .
`` But at the moment there 's a gap between what we really needed tonight and what we got . ''
The Labour leader said elements of the PM 's speech `` causes real concern '' - particularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being told to return to work .
`` Millions of people are being told , particularly in construction and manufacturing , to effectively go back to work tomorrow , '' he said .
`` That 's in about 12 hours ' time but they 're being told at the same time to go back to work if possible not using public transport .
That 's a real logistical problem for tomorrow morning for millions of people . ''
While the government at Westminster has updated its messaging to the public as it begins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders of the devolved administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland have said they will be sticking with the original `` stay at home '' message .
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford told Sky News the PM had `` broken '' the four-nation consensus around the lockdown .
`` There 's a divergence in the messages that are being delivered and my party and my government in Edinburgh regret that , '' he said .
`` What we got tonight is confusion . ''
Mr Blackford said plans for a potential phase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitality industry from the start of next month `` fills me with horror '' .
`` Now is not the time for us to be putting in place a reversal of lockdown .
It 's far too early for that , '' he added .
`` There 's a very real concern that people will get the message from what the prime minister said tonight that it 's back to business as usual .
`` That poses real questions for the growth of this virus . ''
Sir Ed Davey , acting leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not see the rationale behind easing the lockdown `` at this critical stage '' .
`` It risks what people have fought so hard for , '' he said .
`` The prime minister has not provided the country with any evidence or justification for this change .
Instead , he risks creating more confusion than clarity by badly communicating his government 's plans . ''
Union leaders criticised the PM 's speech , accusing Mr Johnson of sending mixed messages which could have `` lethal '' consequences .
TUC general secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause working people a lot of confusion and anxiety '' .
She added : `` The government still has n't published guidance on how workers will be kept safe .
So how can the prime minister - with 12 hours ' notice - tell people they should be going back to sites and factories ?
Dave Prentis , general secretary of Unison said : `` The return to work must be safe .
There must be no cutting corners , no playing fast and loose with employees ' safety .
The economy is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The Rail , Maritime and Transport union ( RMT ) has advised its members not to work if they felt unsafe .
It added that the government 's change in messaging would unleash a surge in passengers on the railways and Tube carriages from Monday , breaching social distancing measures with `` potentially lethal consequences '' for staff and the public .
Teaching unions , meanwhile , have expressed concerns about a phased reopening of schools potentially starting within weeks .
Dr Mary Bousted , joint general secretary of the NEU , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Coronavirus continues to ravage communities in the UK and the rate of COVID-19 infection is still far too great for the wider opening of our schools . ''
Geoff Barton , general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders , said `` social distancing is extremely difficult '' to maintain with children in reception and year one .
The NAHT union , which represents leaders in the majority of schools , said the plan was likely to lead to questions from `` anxious parents '' .
A policing group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the PM 's speech .
The Police Federation of England and Wales said the relaxed lockdown guidance still risks being a set of `` loose rules that are left open to interpretation '' and is difficult to implement .
National chair John Apter said : `` What we need from the prime minister and the government now is clear and unambiguous messaging and guidance , explaining what exactly is expected of the public , so that my colleagues can do their level best to police it . ''

Boris Johnson's address to the nation raised "more questions than answers", Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has told Sky News.
Reacting to the prime minister's speech, Sir Keir said: "I think what the country wanted tonight was real clarity and a sense of consensus - and I'm afraid we haven't got that."
Mr Johnson set out "the first careful steps" in easing the coronavirus lockdown - with people in England allowed to spend more leisure time outside from Wednesday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 Coronavirus: PM announces new lockdown rules
And in a bid to kickstart the economy, the PM said anyone who cannot work from home - such as those in construction and manufacturing - should be "actively encouraged" to go to work from Monday.
People are now being told to "stay alert, control the virus, save lives" - staying home as much as possible, continuing to keep two metres apart when outside, and limiting contact with other people.
But Sir Keir said this new message "just isn't clear enough".
He continued: "There are more questions than answers in the prime minister's statement.
"We now have the prospect of England, Scotland and Wales with different messages and pulling in different directions.
"That clarity isn't there, that consensus isn't there.
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"I appreciate there will be more detail tomorrow and there'll be further questions to be asked.
"But at the moment there's a gap between what we really needed tonight and what we got."
The Labour leader said elements of the PM's speech "causes real concern" - particularly people who cannot work from home being told to return to work.
"Millions of people are being told, particularly in construction and manufacturing, to effectively go back to work tomorrow," he said.
"That's in about 12 hours' time but they're being told at the same time to go back to work if possible not using public transport. That's a real logistical problem for tomorrow morning for millions of people."
While the government at Westminster has updated its messaging to the public as it begins easing the lockdown in England, the leaders of the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have said they will be sticking with the original "stay at home" message.
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford told Sky News the PM had "broken" the four-nation consensus around the lockdown.
"There's a divergence in the messages that are being delivered and my party and my government in Edinburgh regret that," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:43 'The PM has broken the four nation consensus'
"What we got tonight is confusion."
Mr Blackford said plans for a potential phase reopening of schools, shops and the hospitality industry from the start of next month "fills me with horror".
"Now is not the time for us to be putting in place a reversal of lockdown. It's far too early for that," he added.
"There's a very real concern that people will get the message from what the prime minister said tonight that it's back to business as usual.
"That poses real questions for the growth of this virus."
Sir Ed Davey, acting leader of the Liberal Democrats, said he did not see the rationale behind easing the lockdown "at this critical stage".
"It risks what people have fought so hard for," he said.
"The prime minister has not provided the country with any evidence or justification for this change. Instead, he risks creating more confusion than clarity by badly communicating his government's plans."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 Businesses and schools wary of lockdown plan
Union leaders criticised the PM's speech, accusing Mr Johnson of sending mixed messages which could have "lethal" consequences.
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said the speech "will cause working people a lot of confusion and anxiety".
She added: "The government still hasn't published guidance on how workers will be kept safe. So how can the prime minister - with 12 hours' notice - tell people they should be going back to sites and factories?
"It's a recipe for chaos."
Dave Prentis, general secretary of Unison said: "The return to work must be safe. There must be no cutting corners, no playing fast and loose with employees' safety. The economy is important, but lives are too."
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) has advised its members not to work if they felt unsafe.
It added that the government's change in messaging would unleash a surge in passengers on the railways and Tube carriages from Monday, breaching social distancing measures with "potentially lethal consequences" for staff and the public.
Teaching unions, meanwhile, have expressed concerns about a phased reopening of schools potentially starting within weeks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:31 Questions raised over lockdown plan
Dr Mary Bousted, joint general secretary of the NEU, called it "reckless", adding: "Coronavirus continues to ravage communities in the UK and the rate of COVID-19 infection is still far too great for the wider opening of our schools."
Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said "social distancing is extremely difficult" to maintain with children in reception and year one.
The NAHT union, which represents leaders in the majority of schools, said the plan was likely to lead to questions from "anxious parents".
A policing group has also raised concerns in the wake of the PM's speech.
The Police Federation of England and Wales said the relaxed lockdown guidance still risks being a set of "loose rules that are left open to interpretation" and is difficult to implement.
National chair John Apter said: "What we need from the prime minister and the government now is clear and unambiguous messaging and guidance, explaining what exactly is expected of the public, so that my colleagues can do their level best to police it."


news--2020-05-12--Vera Wang: Fashion designer, 70, stuns social media users as she posts age-defying photos

Seventy-year-old fashion designer Vera Wang has left social media users stunned after she shared age-defying pictures of herself during an at-home photoshoot .
Wang , who has created wedding dresses for many celebrities , has been posting the snaps from her Miami property as she passes the time during the coronavirus lockdown .
After she shared a picture of herself in what would have been her Met Ball dress , followed by a photo of her in a crop top and shorts with toned abs , one Twitter user put the two together and asked : `` This b***h Vera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The American star , who was born in June 1949 and is a former professional skater , retweeted the pictures and replied : `` Fact Check : Truth '' .
One Twitter user asked : `` Tell us where the fountain of youth is please . ''
Another said : `` But you were on ice like Captain America for like 40 of those tho right [ sic ] ? ''
Wang , who has two grown-up daughters , happily answered some fans ' questions on how she stays looking young .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ skincare routine , she said `` challenge accepted '' and posted a meme of a dachshund dog wearing a towel and cucumber slices on its eyes while it had its nails filed .
Revealing the secret to her flat stomach , she replied to one fan saying : `` Work , sleep , a vodka cocktail , not much sun . ''
In reply to somebody who said they wanted `` whatever Vera Wang is drinking '' , she said : `` Diet Coca Cola ... typical of a NY fashion type .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is `` ageless '' and has a `` toned physique '' , she replied : `` Whaaaaaa ... .thank you ! ''

Seventy-year-old fashion designer Vera Wang has left social media users stunned after she shared age-defying pictures of herself during an at-home photoshoot.
Wang, who has created wedding dresses for many celebrities, has been posting the snaps from her Miami property as she passes the time during the coronavirus lockdown.
After she shared a picture of herself in what would have been her Met Ball dress, followed by a photo of her in a crop top and shorts with toned abs, one Twitter user put the two together and asked: "This b***h Vera Wang is 70?!?!"
The American star, who was born in June 1949 and is a former professional skater, retweeted the pictures and replied: "Fact Check: Truth".
One Twitter user asked: "Tell us where the fountain of youth is please."
Another said: "But you were on ice like Captain America for like 40 of those tho right [sic]?"
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Wang, who has two grown-up daughters, happily answered some fans' questions on how she stays looking young.
When asked if she could design a skincare routine, she said "challenge accepted" and posted a meme of a dachshund dog wearing a towel and cucumber slices on its eyes while it had its nails filed.
"Relax, healing, chilling," was the caption.
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Revealing the secret to her flat stomach, she replied to one fan saying: "Work, sleep, a vodka cocktail, not much sun."
In reply to somebody who said they wanted "whatever Vera Wang is drinking", she said: "Diet Coca Cola...typical of a NY fashion type."
Replying to a tweet saying she is "ageless" and has a "toned physique", she replied: "Whaaaaaa....thank you!"


news--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Public advised to wear face coverings in PM's 50-page plan for lifting lockdown

People should aim to wear face coverings in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible , including on public transport and in shops , the government has said .
In a new 50-page blueprint for lifting the lockdown in England , Prime Minister Boris Johnson wants all primary school children to have at least a month 's teaching before the summer holidays and some hairdressers and beauty salons back in business at some point in late summer .
The document , called `` Our Plan to Rebuild : The UK Government 's COVID-19 recovery strategy '' , sets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week with further lockdown loosening at the start of June and further changes potentially from 4 July .
• From this week those with jobs in food production , construction , manufacturing , logistics , distribution and scientific research in laboratories should return to the workplace • The government wants children of key workers and those who are vulnerable to go back to school at once • Guidance is being amended to clarify that paid childcare , for example nannies and childminders , can restart work • The government is now advising that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covering in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible and they come into contact with others that they do not normally meet , for example on public transport or in some shops .
Homemade cloth face coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission in some circumstances • People may exercise outside as many times each day as they wish .
For example , this would include angling and tennis .
You will still not be able to use areas like playgrounds , outdoor gyms or ticketed outdoor leisure venues , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close contact and touching surfaces • Mr Johnson tells MPs that `` parliament must set a national example '' by moving in step with public health guidance and holding more meetings in the chamber • When travelling to outdoor spaces , the document says it is important that people respect the rules in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland and do not travel to different parts of the UK where it would be inconsistent with guidance or regulations issued by the relevant devolved administration • From next month , the government is looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take place behind closed-doors for broadcast , while avoiding the risk of large-scale social contact • The government has delayed the introduction of household `` bubbles '' to connect people .
It says : `` Over the coming weeks , the government will engage on the nature and timing of the measures in this step , in order to consider the widest possible array of views on how best to balance the health , economic and social effects . ''
• In the third and final phase , which could begin on 4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some hairdressers and beauty salons , churches and some cinemas The new guidelines mean people will now be able to drive to outdoor open spaces `` irrespective of distance '' in England from this week .
The government also opens the door to limited social gatherings with one other person outside from this week , providing they are socially distanced , according to the document .
Devolved administrations in Wales and Scotland have advised the `` stay home '' message remains and introduced much more limited changes to the lockdown .
The government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the PM 's speech to the nation on Sunday was confusing , with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer saying Mr Johnson 's statement raised `` more questions than answers '' .
The 50-page plan says the government `` is updating the rules so that , as well as exercise , people can now also spend time outdoors subject to : not meeting up with any more than one person from outside your household '' .
However , meetings with more than one person are forbidden .
The document warns : `` Much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible .
So the government 's plan considers carefully when and where to take risk .
A 'zero-risk ' approach will not work in these unprecedented times . ''
Writing the foreword , Mr Johnson says : `` It is not a quick return to 'normality . '
Nor does it lay out an easy answer .
And , inevitably , parts of this plan will adapt as we learn more about the virus .
But it is a plan that should give the people of the United Kingdom hope .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ solution lies with a vaccine or drug-based treatment . ''
The prime minister warns that the restrictions could yet last a long time .
Mr Johnson says : `` But while we hope for a breakthrough , hope is not a plan .
A mass vaccine or treatment may be more than a year away .
Indeed , in a worst-case scenario , we may never find a vaccine .
So our plan must countenance a situation where we are in this , together , for the long haul , even while doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Downing Street also makes clear it believes its room for manoeuvre is limited , saying : `` The government can not yet be confident that major adjustments now will not risk a second peak of infections that might overwhelm the NHS .
Therefore , the government is only in a position to cautiously lift elements of the existing measures . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The public is being told that the government will gradually `` replace the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concentrating on measures that have the largest effect on controlling the epidemic but the lowest health , economic and social costs .
`` These will be developed and announced in periodic 'steps ' over the coming weeks and months , seeking to maximise the pace at which restrictions are lifted , but with strict conditions to move from each step to the next , '' according to the document .
The document also reveals the fear in government that winter flu poses a unique threat this year when combined with coronavirus .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have symptoms that resemble COVID-19 , leading to increasing the demand for hospital beds and impeding efforts to trace the virus .

People should aim to wear face coverings in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible, including on public transport and in shops, the government has said.
In a new 50-page blueprint for lifting the lockdown in England, Prime Minister Boris Johnson wants all primary school children to have at least a month's teaching before the summer holidays and some hairdressers and beauty salons back in business at some point in late summer.
The document, called "Our Plan to Rebuild: The UK Government's COVID-19 recovery strategy", sets out the three-phase approach, starting this week with further lockdown loosening at the start of June and further changes potentially from 4 July.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:28 'Go to work if you can't work from home'
It says:
From this week those with jobs in food production, construction, manufacturing, logistics, distribution and scientific research in laboratories should return to the workplace
The government wants children of key workers and those who are vulnerable to go back to school at once
Guidance is being amended to clarify that paid childcare, for example nannies and childminders, can restart work
The government is now advising that people should aim to wear a face covering in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible and they come into contact with others that they do not normally meet, for example on public transport or in some shops. Homemade cloth face coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission in some circumstances
People may exercise outside as many times each day as they wish. For example, this would include angling and tennis. You will still not be able to use areas like playgrounds, outdoor gyms or ticketed outdoor leisure venues, where there is a higher risk of close contact and touching surfaces
Mr Johnson tells MPs that "parliament must set a national example" by moving in step with public health guidance and holding more meetings in the chamber
When travelling to outdoor spaces, the document says it is important that people respect the rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and do not travel to different parts of the UK where it would be inconsistent with guidance or regulations issued by the relevant devolved administration
From next month, the government is looking at permitting cultural and sporting events to take place behind closed-doors for broadcast, while avoiding the risk of large-scale social contact
The government has delayed the introduction of household "bubbles" to connect people. It says: "Over the coming weeks, the government will engage on the nature and timing of the measures in this step, in order to consider the widest possible array of views on how best to balance the health, economic and social effects."
In the third and final phase, which could begin on 4 July, the government wants to open some hairdressers and beauty salons, churches and some cinemas
The new guidelines mean people will now be able to drive to outdoor open spaces "irrespective of distance" in England from this week.
The government also opens the door to limited social gatherings with one other person outside from this week, providing they are socially distanced, according to the document.
Image: Traffic on the A1203 in London the morning after the PM's address to the nation
Devolved administrations in Wales and Scotland have advised the "stay home" message remains and introduced much more limited changes to the lockdown.
The government's document has been published after criticism that the PM's speech to the nation on Sunday was confusing, with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer saying Mr Johnson's statement raised "more questions than answers".
The 50-page plan says the government "is updating the rules so that, as well as exercise, people can now also spend time outdoors subject to: not meeting up with any more than one person from outside your household".
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However, meetings with more than one person are forbidden.
The document warns: "Much of what is desirable is not yet possible. So the government's plan considers carefully when and where to take risk. A 'zero-risk' approach will not work in these unprecedented times."
Writing the foreword, Mr Johnson says: "It is not a quick return to 'normality.' Nor does it lay out an easy answer. And, inevitably, parts of this plan will adapt as we learn more about the virus. But it is a plan that should give the people of the United Kingdom hope.
"It is clear that the only feasible long-term solution lies with a vaccine or drug-based treatment."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:01 No pubs or hair cuts until 4 July at the earliest, says Raab
The prime minister warns that the restrictions could yet last a long time.
Mr Johnson says: "But while we hope for a breakthrough, hope is not a plan. A mass vaccine or treatment may be more than a year away. Indeed, in a worst-case scenario, we may never find a vaccine. So our plan must countenance a situation where we are in this, together, for the long haul, even while doing all we can to avoid that outcome."
Downing Street also makes clear it believes its room for manoeuvre is limited, saying: "The government cannot yet be confident that major adjustments now will not risk a second peak of infections that might overwhelm the NHS. Therefore, the government is only in a position to cautiously lift elements of the existing measures."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The public is being told that the government will gradually "replace the existing social restrictions with smarter measures" concentrating on measures that have the largest effect on controlling the epidemic but the lowest health, economic and social costs.
"These will be developed and announced in periodic 'steps' over the coming weeks and months, seeking to maximise the pace at which restrictions are lifted, but with strict conditions to move from each step to the next," according to the document.
The document also reveals the fear in government that winter flu poses a unique threat this year when combined with coronavirus.
It says people without COVID-19 are likely to have symptoms that resemble COVID-19, leading to increasing the demand for hospital beds and impeding efforts to trace the virus.


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: Ticket collector dies with COVID-19 after man claiming to have virus spat on her

A mother working as a ticket collector has died with COVID-19 after being spat at by someone claiming to have the illness .
Belly Mujinga 's family have spoken to Sky News after her death sparked a new row over the safety of key workers , personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , and protecting employees with underlying health problems .
On 22 March , the 47-year-old was working with a colleague on the concourse at Victoria Station in London , when a member of the public claiming to have the coronavirus assaulted both of them .
Belly 's cousin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` They went out and they met a person who said , 'why are you here ? '
`` And they said , 'we 're working . '
`` Then the person said , ' I 've got COVID ' - and straight away he spat at them . ''
According to the family , Belly and her colleague made clear they were scared for their lives and asked not to be sent back out and to instead work from inside the ticket office .
But they were told that people were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back for the rest of their shift .
Despite the pair saying they asked their employer to call the police , British Transport Police ( BTP ) told Sky News they could find no record of it .
However , the BTP say they are now investigating .
Within days of the assault , both women fell ill with the virus .
Belly 's husband , Lusamba Gode Katalay , said : `` They were n't given masks , or gloves , so they were exposed to everyone .
`` It 's her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who have to look at that . ''
While the two colleagues had no PPE , very few people were wearing masks or gloves at the time of the incident , which happened the day before the coronavirus lockdown began .
Mr Katalay went on to say : `` Me and Ingrid ( his 11-year-old daughter ) , we saw Belly on 2 April when she left for hospital .
`` Then we did n't see her again .
She 's dead and we buried her without being able to see her .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 April , two weeks after the assault .
Ms Ntumba added : `` Justice must be done .
When it happened , she could have bought it in the house .
`` The husband is here , the daughter is here .
We could have lost all of them .
We need justice , if the person is caught he needs to do his sentence - for Belly . ''
It 's not possible to say whether or not Belly contracted the virus from the spitting incident , but as lockdown is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions for people being asked to return to work .
To begin with , Belly had underlying respiratory problems and even before contracting the virus had regular hospital appointments as she found it hard to breathe .
Should she even have been at work ?
By the time of the incident , the World Health Organisation had released guidance saying that people with respiratory disease were in an `` at risk group '' .
Three days after the incident , Belly 's doctor rang her employers and insisted that she be stood down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manager asked her to provide the doctor 's letter in person .
The transport union representing Belly say that the next day she travelled to Victoria Station to hand in the letter , whilst sick with the virus .
Manuel Cortes , general secretary for transport union TSSA , said : `` As a vulnerable person in the 'at risk ' category and her condition known to her employer , there are questions about why GTR ( Belly 's employer ) did n't stand her down from frontline duties early on in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at work was scary and we do not think the company treated it seriously enough .
`` Anyone who is vulnerable should remain at home and home working should be the default wherever possible .
`` Our rail industry needs to have a very serious look at what tasks are deemed 'essential ' and must put protections in place for all our members and our passengers . ''
As lock down is eased and people return to work , another question for the future , is whether Belly had a right to challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of being front-facing with the public ?
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Employment Lawyer Christopher Hitchins from Katten says : `` For any employee , if they have concerns about coming into work they should speak to the employers and ask to see a summary of what measures they have taken to provide a safe working environment .
`` The government is setting out guidelines on the types of measures they might want companies to take for example hand sanitizers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place - wearing gloves , not having shared office space - so if you are concerned about it in any way - speak to your employer - find out what action they have taken and whether you are comfortable with it . ''
Angie Doll , Managing Director , Southern Railway and Gatwick Express , Belly 's employer , told Sky News : `` We are devastated that our dedicated colleague Belly has passed away and our deepest sympathies are with her family with whom we have been in touch with through this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any allegations extremely seriously , and we are investigating these claims .
`` The safety of our customers and staff , who are key workers themselves , continues to be front of mind at all times and we follow the latest government advice .
We urge people only to travel if it is absolutely essential . ''
Lawyers say it is highly unlikely that someone who spits on someone would be charged with anything other than the relatively minor offence of battery , even if the victim person subsequently became seriously ill or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dr Geoff Pearson , senior lecturer in criminal law at the University of Manchester , said : `` The reason for this is that the prosecution would have to prove ( to a standard that the jury are sure , or 'beyond reasonable doubt ' ) the element of causation - i.e .
that it was that saliva that caused the infection that led to the serious illness or death . ''
`` If you could prove the causation element of the offence , then technically , in a situation where an individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on another who then dies as a result of the infection , this could be manslaughter . ''
TSSA representatives have reported the incident to the Railways Inspectorate , the safety arm of the Office for Road and Rail ( ORR ) for investigation .
Anyone who has any information is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 and quoting reference 359 of 11/05/20 .

A mother working as a ticket collector has died with COVID-19 after being spat at by someone claiming to have the illness.
Belly Mujinga's family have spoken to Sky News after her death sparked a new row over the safety of key workers, personal protective equipment (PPE), and protecting employees with underlying health problems.
On 22 March, the 47-year-old was working with a colleague on the concourse at Victoria Station in London, when a member of the public claiming to have the coronavirus assaulted both of them.
Image: Belly Mujinga's cousin Agnes Ntumba says she wanted to spend her shift inside the ticket office
Belly's cousin, Agnes Ntumba, told Sky News: "They went out and they met a person who said, 'why are you here?'
"And they said, 'we're working.'
"Then the person said, 'I've got COVID' - and straight away he spat at them."
According to the family, Belly and her colleague made clear they were scared for their lives and asked not to be sent back out and to instead work from inside the ticket office.
But they were told that people were needed to work outside and were sent back for the rest of their shift.
Despite the pair saying they asked their employer to call the police, British Transport Police (BTP) told Sky News they could find no record of it.
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However, the BTP say they are now investigating.
Image: Belly Mujinga and her husband Lusamba Gode Katalay. He says 'justice must be done'
Within days of the assault, both women fell ill with the virus.
Belly's husband, Lusamba Gode Katalay, said: "They weren't given masks, or gloves, so they were exposed to everyone.
"It's her employer, the company and the state who have to look at that."
While the two colleagues had no PPE, very few people were wearing masks or gloves at the time of the incident, which happened the day before the coronavirus lockdown began.
Mr Katalay went on to say: "Me and Ingrid (his 11-year-old daughter), we saw Belly on 2 April when she left for hospital.
Image: Belly Mujinga's daughter Ingrid never saw her mum again after she went into hospital
"Then we didn't see her again. She's dead and we buried her without being able to see her."
Belly died in Barnet hospital on 5 April, two weeks after the assault.
Ms Ntumba added: "Justice must be done. When it happened, she could have bought it in the house.
"The husband is here, the daughter is here. We could have lost all of them. We need justice, if the person is caught he needs to do his sentence - for Belly."
It's not possible to say whether or not Belly contracted the virus from the spitting incident, but as lockdown is eased her death raises a number of questions for people being asked to return to work.
Image: Belly Mujinga, 47, died in Barnet hospital on 5 April
To begin with, Belly had underlying respiratory problems and even before contracting the virus had regular hospital appointments as she found it hard to breathe. Should she even have been at work?
By the time of the incident, the World Health Organisation had released guidance saying that people with respiratory disease were in an "at risk group".
Three days after the incident, Belly's doctor rang her employers and insisted that she be stood down.
Another five days later, a manager asked her to provide the doctor's letter in person.
The transport union representing Belly say that the next day she travelled to Victoria Station to hand in the letter, whilst sick with the virus.
Manuel Cortes, general secretary for transport union TSSA, said: "As a vulnerable person in the 'at risk' category and her condition known to her employer, there are questions about why GTR (Belly's employer) didn't stand her down from frontline duties early on in this pandemic.
"The assault she suffered at work was scary and we do not think the company treated it seriously enough.
"Anyone who is vulnerable should remain at home and home working should be the default wherever possible.
"Our rail industry needs to have a very serious look at what tasks are deemed 'essential' and must put protections in place for all our members and our passengers."
As lock down is eased and people return to work, another question for the future, is whether Belly had a right to challenge her employer over the health and safety risk of being front-facing with the public?
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Employment Lawyer Christopher Hitchins from Katten says: "For any employee, if they have concerns about coming into work they should speak to the employers and ask to see a summary of what measures they have taken to provide a safe working environment.
"The government is setting out guidelines on the types of measures they might want companies to take for example hand sanitizers, masks, maybe in the work place - wearing gloves, not having shared office space - so if you are concerned about it in any way - speak to your employer - find out what action they have taken and whether you are comfortable with it."
Angie Doll, Managing Director, Southern Railway and Gatwick Express, Belly's employer, told Sky News: "We are devastated that our dedicated colleague Belly has passed away and our deepest sympathies are with her family with whom we have been in touch with through this very difficult time.
"We take any allegations extremely seriously, and we are investigating these claims.
"The safety of our customers and staff, who are key workers themselves, continues to be front of mind at all times and we follow the latest government advice. We urge people only to travel if it is absolutely essential."
Lawyers say it is highly unlikely that someone who spits on someone would be charged with anything other than the relatively minor offence of battery, even if the victim person subsequently became seriously ill or died as a result of COVID-19.
Dr Geoff Pearson, senior lecturer in criminal law at the University of Manchester, said: "The reason for this is that the prosecution would have to prove (to a standard that the jury are sure, or 'beyond reasonable doubt') the element of causation - i.e. that it was that saliva that caused the infection that led to the serious illness or death."
"If you could prove the causation element of the offence, then technically, in a situation where an individual suspects they could have COVID-19 and spits on another who then dies as a result of the infection, this could be manslaughter."
TSSA representatives have reported the incident to the Railways Inspectorate, the safety arm of the Office for Road and Rail (ORR) for investigation.
Anyone who has any information is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 and quoting reference 359 of 11/05/20.


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: South Korea scrambles to contain outbreak from nightclub cluster linked to one man

South Korean officials are scrambling to contain a new outbreak of coronavirus after a cluster of more than 100 cases was linked one man who visited several nightclubs in Seoul .
Bars and discos across South Korea 's capital have now been closed , after the sudden outbreak raised fears of a second wave of COVID-19 in a city that has been seen as a model for how to contain the disease .
Mayor Park Won-soon announced on Tuesday that 101 people had tested positive for coronavirus since the latest outbreak was identified last week , with most of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 29-year-old man .
The man visited three nightclubs in Seoul 's Itaewon district last Saturday , as locals flooded back to the nighttime economy thanks to the government 's decision to relax some social distancing rules .
The man , who did not wear a mask inside the clubs , tested positive for the illness three days later .
Mayor Park said officials were now racing to trace everyone who may have been exposed , but revealed that there had already been several cases of secondary infection .
He added : `` More @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the rate of spread is very high . ''
Some 7,272 people have already been tested in relation to the nightclub cluster , after a public information campaign urged those who visited the affected venues between 29 April and 6 May to get tested and stay indoors .
The 29-year-old man reportedly visited three premises - King Club , Trunk Club and Club Queen - and visitor lists indicated they had more than 1,500 customers combined on the night he was out .
According to phone signal tower records , an estimated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clubs at the time , prompting the city to send text messages to all the numbers identified to ask them to be tested .
Now all nightclubs , bars , discos and other such venues across Seoul have been told to close for a month , with checks being carried out to ensure they are complying .
Those who have been contacted have been reassured that their personal information is safe , with some fearful of discrimination due to some of the affected clubs being linked to Seoul 's LGBTQ community .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and LGBTQ people face discrimination , including hate speech .
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun has acknowledged the concerns , telling officials : `` We release the movement of confirmed patients to encourage anyone who might be exposed get tested voluntarily .
`` We urge people to refrain from distributing patients ' personal information or groundless rumours , which not only hurts them but can also be subject to punishment . ''
He added : `` Our top priority is to minimise the spread of the infections .
`` We should quickly find and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Privacy concerns aside , South Korea has been heralded for its mass testing , tracking and tracing campaign since coronavirus first emerged in the country back in January .
At one point it had the most confirmed cases and deaths outside China following an outbreak linked to a church gathering in the city of Daegu , but it quickly got the pandemic under control .
There have been 10,936 confirmed cases in South Korea and a relatively low death count of 236 , even though the country has never gone into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries in Europe .
Parliamentary elections even went ahead as planned last month .
But the World Health Organisation has warned countries that have been successful in containing the disease not to become complacent , with those that have eased restrictions having seen an uptick .
Infections have been on the rise again in Germany , after Chancellor Angela Merkel bowed to pressure from state leaders to restart social life and revive the economy last week .
Like South Korea , Germany has been praised for its testing efforts and has a death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in countries like France , Spain , Italy and the UK .
Efforts to restore relative normality there have included more shop openings , a gradual return to school , and the upcoming resumption of Bundesliga football this weekend .

South Korean officials are scrambling to contain a new outbreak of coronavirus after a cluster of more than 100 cases was linked one man who visited several nightclubs in Seoul.
Bars and discos across South Korea's capital have now been closed, after the sudden outbreak raised fears of a second wave of COVID-19 in a city that has been seen as a model for how to contain the disease.
Mayor Park Won-soon announced on Tuesday that 101 people had tested positive for coronavirus since the latest outbreak was identified last week, with most of the first batch of those linked to one 29-year-old man.
Image: More than 10,000 people have been tested in relation to the new outbreak
The man visited three nightclubs in Seoul's Itaewon district last Saturday, as locals flooded back to the nighttime economy thanks to the government's decision to relax some social distancing rules.
The man, who did not wear a mask inside the clubs, tested positive for the illness three days later.
Mayor Park said officials were now racing to trace everyone who may have been exposed, but revealed that there had already been several cases of secondary infection.
He added: "More than 36% of cases are asymptomatic and the rate of spread is very high."
Some 7,272 people have already been tested in relation to the nightclub cluster, after a public information campaign urged those who visited the affected venues between 29 April and 6 May to get tested and stay indoors.
The 29-year-old man reportedly visited three premises - King Club, Trunk Club and Club Queen - and visitor lists indicated they had more than 1,500 customers combined on the night he was out.
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According to phone signal tower records, an estimated 10,905 people were in the vicinity of the clubs at the time, prompting the city to send text messages to all the numbers identified to ask them to be tested.
Now all nightclubs, bars, discos and other such venues across Seoul have been told to close for a month, with checks being carried out to ensure they are complying.
Image: Virus testing stations have been set up at affected nightclubs
Those who have been contacted have been reassured that their personal information is safe, with some fearful of discrimination due to some of the affected clubs being linked to Seoul's LGBTQ community.
Homosexuality is often taboo in South Korea and LGBTQ people face discrimination, including hate speech.
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun has acknowledged the concerns, telling officials: "We release the movement of confirmed patients to encourage anyone who might be exposed get tested voluntarily.
"We urge people to refrain from distributing patients' personal information or groundless rumours, which not only hurts them but can also be subject to punishment."
He added: "Our top priority is to minimise the spread of the infections.
"We should quickly find and test them, and speed is key."
Image: The outbreak was first linked to a man who visited three of Seoul's nightclubs
Privacy concerns aside, South Korea has been heralded for its mass testing, tracking and tracing campaign since coronavirus first emerged in the country back in January.
At one point it had the most confirmed cases and deaths outside China following an outbreak linked to a church gathering in the city of Daegu, but it quickly got the pandemic under control.
There have been 10,936 confirmed cases in South Korea and a relatively low death count of 236, even though the country has never gone into the sort of lockdown seen in several countries in Europe.
Parliamentary elections even went ahead as planned last month.
But the World Health Organisation has warned countries that have been successful in containing the disease not to become complacent, with those that have eased restrictions having seen an uptick.
Infections have been on the rise again in Germany, after Chancellor Angela Merkel bowed to pressure from state leaders to restart social life and revive the economy last week.
Like South Korea, Germany has been praised for its testing efforts and has a death toll of 7,661 - far lower than in countries like France, Spain, Italy and the UK.
Efforts to restore relative normality there have included more shop openings, a gradual return to school, and the upcoming resumption of Bundesliga football this weekend.


news--2020-06-26--Coronavirus: MPs to be ordered back to parliament to 'set an example' as lockdown gradually lifted

MPs have been told they should be working in Westminster at the start of June to `` set an example '' to the rest of the country as lockdown is eased further .
Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg signalled the historic `` virtual parliament '' measures which saw MPs cast their first ever online votes on Tuesday due coronavirus will soon come to an end .
He made the announcement ahead of confirmation the rules letting politicians debate and challenge ministers via videolink will be extended for another few weeks .
The changes were brought in so MPs could stay at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the COVID-19 pandemic , which has so far killed at least 32,000 people .
But Mr Rees-Mogg signalled that as Prime Minister Boris Johnson presses for people to start going back to work where it is safe to do so in England , MPs would soon have to do so too .
`` It is clear that soon parliament must set an example of how we move back gradually to a fully-function country again - our constituents would expect nothing less , '' he told the Commons .
`` So while we must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it is vital that when we are asking other people to work and go to their places of work if they can not do so from home we should not be the ones who are exempt from that .
`` Indeed , we should be leading by example . ''
The announcement puts MPs from Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland in a difficult position - as their devolved governments are still enforcing the `` stay at home '' rules .
The Scottish National Party 's John Nicholson said the move would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to break guidelines north of the border and would `` expose our constituents to danger '' .
Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain added : `` The current advice is that people should work at home if the can - we have proven that MPs can .
`` As yet , the government has published no guidance as to how MPs and staff are meant to keep a two metres distance from each other whilst working in parliament .
`` Perhaps most worryingly of all , MPs and staff would be further filling up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and forth to communities all over the country . ''
A government source told Sky News that `` MPs are critical workers so nationwide and throughout they have been encouraged to go to work if they can not work from home '' .
When asked why the rules had to be changed if the guidance for critical workers such as MPs remains the same , the source said : `` The measures were only ever intended to be temporary .
`` As many members said this evening , hybridity has a damaging effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to progress its legislative agenda as it would like to - the two constitutional roles of parliament .
`` This is all provisional , subject to the medical advice . ''

MPs have been told they should be working in Westminster at the start of June to "set an example" to the rest of the country as lockdown is eased further.
Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg signalled the historic "virtual parliament" measures which saw MPs cast their first ever online votes on Tuesday due coronavirus will soon come to an end.
He made the announcement ahead of confirmation the rules letting politicians debate and challenge ministers via videolink will be extended for another few weeks.
Image: Unprecedented measures include remote voting and speaking via videolink
The changes were brought in so MPs could stay at home but still scrutinise the government during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has so far killed at least 32,000 people.
But Mr Rees-Mogg signalled that as Prime Minister Boris Johnson presses for people to start going back to work where it is safe to do so in England, MPs would soon have to do so too.
Image: Mr Rees-Mogg said MPs 'should be leading by example'
"It is clear that soon parliament must set an example of how we move back gradually to a fully-function country again - our constituents would expect nothing less," he told the Commons.
"So while we must move in step with public health guidance, it is vital that when we are asking other people to work and go to their places of work if they cannot do so from home we should not be the ones who are exempt from that.
"Indeed, we should be leading by example."
The announcement puts MPs from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in a difficult position - as their devolved governments are still enforcing the "stay at home" rules.
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The Scottish National Party's John Nicholson said the move would only "set the wrong example" to break guidelines north of the border and would "expose our constituents to danger".
Image: The 'stay at home' message remains in force in Scotland
Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain added: "The current advice is that people should work at home if the can - we have proven that MPs can.
"As yet, the government has published no guidance as to how MPs and staff are meant to keep a two metres distance from each other whilst working in parliament.
"Perhaps most worryingly of all, MPs and staff would be further filling up public transport networks and presumably travelling back and forth to communities all over the country."
A government source told Sky News that "MPs are critical workers so nationwide and throughout they have been encouraged to go to work if they cannot work from home".
When asked why the rules had to be changed if the guidance for critical workers such as MPs remains the same, the source said: "The measures were only ever intended to be temporary.
"As many members said this evening, hybridity has a damaging effect on scrutiny and neither is the government able to progress its legislative agenda as it would like to - the two constitutional roles of parliament.
"This is all provisional, subject to the medical advice."


news--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Tory MP criticised for saying Welsh Parliament should be abolished for undermining PM

A Tory MP has come under fire for demanding the Welsh Parliament be abolished for `` undermining '' Boris Johnson 's coronavirus response .
Daniel Kawczynski said it was an `` unnecessary '' body that was `` picking apart our UK '' and devolution needs a `` rethink '' .
The administrations in Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland have all stuck to the existing COVID-19 response , urging people to `` stay at home '' and refusing to ease lockdown measures as more than 32,000 people have died .
But Mr Johnson has tweaked the guidance in England and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home - such as builders or manufacturers - they should go to work if it is safe to do so .
All leaders have said they want a four nations-led approach to avoid confusion and different laws coming into force within the UK , but Mr Johnson has pressed ahead with laying the groundwork for some children to go back to school and shops to re-open from June .
After the announcement , Mr Kawczynski said he was `` worried '' about the Welsh Parliament 's effect on the `` cohesion of Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a time of crisis will I hope start a debate in Wales longer term as to whether or not to continue with this expensive and unnecessary body , '' he tweeted .
`` The pandemic has really exposed how far devolution has gone towards picking apart our UK - it 's time for a rethink . ''
The Welsh Parliament was initially created after the 1997 referendum that saw 50.3 % of residents back the idea .
In another referendum held 14 years later , residents voted by 63.5 % to give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including education , health and welfare .
Mr Kawczynski 's suggestion of abolishing it was slapped down by Welsh Conservatives leader Paul Davies , who confirmed : `` This is not our party 's policy . ''
Vice-chair of the party Darren Miller added the comments `` are not consistent with our party policy at either a Welsh or UK level '' .
Former Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood said the Shrewsbury MP 's outburst was because `` because the Welsh government has stopped him going to his nearest beach '' .

A Tory MP has come under fire for demanding the Welsh Parliament be abolished for "undermining" Boris Johnson's coronavirus response.
Daniel Kawczynski said it was an "unnecessary" body that was "picking apart our UK" and devolution needs a "rethink".
The administrations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have all stuck to the existing COVID-19 response, urging people to "stay at home" and refusing to ease lockdown measures as more than 32,000 people have died.
Image: Mr Kawczynski accused assembly members of 'undermining' the PM
But Mr Johnson has tweaked the guidance in England and told those who cannot work from home - such as builders or manufacturers - they should go to work if it is safe to do so.
All leaders have said they want a four nations-led approach to avoid confusion and different laws coming into force within the UK, but Mr Johnson has pressed ahead with laying the groundwork for some children to go back to school and shops to re-open from June.
Image: Some measures could be loosened earlier in England
After the announcement, Mr Kawczynski said he was "worried" about the Welsh Parliament's effect on the "cohesion of Britain".
"Their undermining of PM at a time of crisis will I hope start a debate in Wales longer term as to whether or not to continue with this expensive and unnecessary body," he tweeted.
"The pandemic has really exposed how far devolution has gone towards picking apart our UK - it's time for a rethink."
The Welsh Parliament was initially created after the 1997 referendum that saw 50.3% of residents back the idea.
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In another referendum held 14 years later, residents voted by 63.5% to give the body law-making powers on some areas including education, health and welfare.
Mr Kawczynski's suggestion of abolishing it was slapped down by Welsh Conservatives leader Paul Davies, who confirmed: "This is not our party's policy."
Vice-chair of the party Darren Miller added the comments "are not consistent with our party policy at either a Welsh or UK level".
Former Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood said the Shrewsbury MP's outburst was because "because the Welsh government has stopped him going to his nearest beach".