news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Deliveroo riders say they can’t access promised hardship fund

Deliveroo couriers say they are being forced back to work when they should be self-isolating , because they are unable to access the support promised by the company , Sky News can reveal .
Deliveroo has committed to providing a multi-million pound `` hardship fund '' for riders and drivers , which will give anyone who catches coronavirus or is forced to self-isolate a weekly payment in excess of UK statutory sick pay .
Yet couriers - who are classed by Deliveroo as self-employed - have been unable to access the fund because they can not get the required documentation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ budget last week the chancellor announced that you 'd be able to get a medical certification from the 111 service , '' said Greg Howard , who works as a Deliveroo courier in Nottingham '' That is n't the situation .
You can not get that . ''
Anyone calling NHS 111 is told , by an automated message , that `` we currently can not issue isolation notes '' .
The 111 website has no option for anyone to obtain evidence for absence from work and tells visitors concerned about coronavirus not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or hospital .
Deliveroo deactivates the account of any rider who is self-isolating for seven days , preventing them from working , but places strict requirements on anyone claiming financial support .
In email exchanges seen by Sky News , a member of Deliveroo 's rider fraud and escalations team says couriers need to `` provide proof '' that they `` have contracted the virus or been placed in quarantine by a medical authority '' to claim financial support .
Riders who say they can not get a certificate - without which it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Deliveroo website - are told to `` keep in contact with your doctor , Health Service Hotline or the 111 website for the UK to continue to request certification . ''
The difficulty experienced by riders getting medical certification highlights the intense strain placed on government bureaucracy by the coronavirus pandemic .
Official guidance from last week 's budget states that a system will be introduced `` in the coming weeks '' to enable people who are self-isolating `` to obtain a notification via NHS 111 which they can use as evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urgings from Deliveroo , whose spokesperson told Sky News it was in regular contact with the government about this service , the system has not yet been made available .
Sources from other gig economy companies , who also rely on this system to certify workers ' absence , confirmed that they were waiting for the government to introduce the service .
For Deliveroo couriers who are self-isolating , the absence of support places them in a difficult position , not only financially , but also because they may struggle to finish their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who went into self-isolation last Wednesday , is planning to go back to work after seven days , even though the government 's most recent guidance says anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should isolate themselves and their family for 14 days .
`` I do n't really know how I 'm going to afford to live over the next few weeks , '' he said .
`` I 'm going to go back on Thursday , hopefully .
I 'm going to have to work even harder . ''
Dilwar Uddin , another courier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access the support fund , told Sky News he was struggling to know what to do .
`` How am I supposed to pay my bills ?
How am I supposed to pay my rent ?
I 've got three children to think about , '' he said .
`` Deliveroo 's not helping me stay at home . ''
The Independent Workers ' Union of Great Britain ( IWGB ) , which represents gig economy workers including Mr Howard and Mr Uddin , called Deliveroo 's policy `` PR spin '' hiding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tactics '' .
`` Deliveroo and other so-called gig economy employers have to stop blocking their workers ' access to these funds and immediately introduce full contractual sick pay , without pre-conditions , '' said IWGB Couriers and Logistics branch chair Alex Marshall .
`` These workers are being expected to play a huge role in feeding people during this time of crisis , so it is time for their employers and the government to give them the basic rights we expect in any decent and just society . ''
Sky News revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conducting talks with Deliveroo , Just Eat and Uber Eats to provide food to elderly and vulnerable people who are self-isolating .
A Deliveroo spokesperson told Sky News : `` Deliveroo is committed to providing financial support for riders across the world who are diagnosed with the virus or who are told to be in isolation by a medical authority .
`` We are providing riders with continuous advice , based on expert guidance , on how to stay safe and we will continue to explore other ways in which riders can be @ @ @

Deliveroo couriers say they are being forced back to work when they should be self-isolating, because they are unable to access the support promised by the company, Sky News can reveal.
Deliveroo has committed to providing a multi-million pound "hardship fund" for riders and drivers, which will give anyone who catches coronavirus or is forced to self-isolate a weekly payment in excess of UK statutory sick pay.
Yet couriers - who are classed by Deliveroo as self-employed - have been unable to access the fund because they cannot get the required documentation from the NHS.
"During the budget last week the chancellor announced that you'd be able to get a medical certification from the 111 service," said Greg Howard, who works as a Deliveroo courier in Nottingham
"That isn't the situation. You cannot get that."
Anyone calling NHS 111 is told, by an automated message, that "we currently cannot issue isolation notes".
The 111 website has no option for anyone to obtain evidence for absence from work and tells visitors concerned about coronavirus not to go to a GP, pharmacy or hospital.
Image: Deliveroo workers say they are unable to get the required note from the NHS to prove they are sick
Deliveroo deactivates the account of any rider who is self-isolating for seven days, preventing them from working, but places strict requirements on anyone claiming financial support.
In email exchanges seen by Sky News, a member of Deliveroo's rider fraud and escalations team says couriers need to "provide proof" that they "have contracted the virus or been placed in quarantine by a medical authority" to claim financial support.
Advertisement
Riders who say they cannot get a certificate - without which it is impossible to complete the form on the Deliveroo website - are told to "keep in contact with your doctor, Health Service Hotline or the 111 website for the UK to continue to request certification."
The difficulty experienced by riders getting medical certification highlights the intense strain placed on government bureaucracy by the coronavirus pandemic.
Official guidance from last week's budget states that a system will be introduced "in the coming weeks" to enable people who are self-isolating "to obtain a notification via NHS 111 which they can use as evidence for absence from work."
Despite urgings from Deliveroo, whose spokesperson told Sky News it was in regular contact with the government about this service, the system has not yet been made available.
Sources from other gig economy companies, who also rely on this system to certify workers' absence, confirmed that they were waiting for the government to introduce the service.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:37 UK's new economic measures amid outbreak
For Deliveroo couriers who are self-isolating, the absence of support places them in a difficult position, not only financially, but also because they may struggle to finish their period of quarantine.
Mr Howard, who went into self-isolation last Wednesday, is planning to go back to work after seven days, even though the government's most recent guidance says anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should isolate themselves and their family for 14 days.
"I don't really know how I'm going to afford to live over the next few weeks," he said. "I'm going to go back on Thursday, hopefully. I'm going to have to work even harder."
Dilwar Uddin, another courier in self-isolation who has been unable to access the support fund, told Sky News he was struggling to know what to do.
"How am I supposed to pay my bills? How am I supposed to pay my rent? I've got three children to think about," he said.
"Deliveroo's not helping me stay at home."
The Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which represents gig economy workers including Mr Howard and Mr Uddin, called Deliveroo's policy "PR spin" hiding "more of the same old deceitful tactics".
"Deliveroo and other so-called gig economy employers have to stop blocking their workers' access to these funds and immediately introduce full contractual sick pay, without pre-conditions," said IWGB Couriers and Logistics branch chair Alex Marshall.
"These workers are being expected to play a huge role in feeding people during this time of crisis, so it is time for their employers and the government to give them the basic rights we expect in any decent and just society."
Sky News revealed on Monday that the government has been conducting talks with Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats to provide food to elderly and vulnerable people who are self-isolating.
A Deliveroo spokesperson told Sky News: "Deliveroo is committed to providing financial support for riders across the world who are diagnosed with the virus or who are told to be in isolation by a medical authority.
"We are providing riders with continuous advice, based on expert guidance, on how to stay safe and we will continue to explore other ways in which riders can be supported."


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: 'Radical' money printing plan being considered by the Bank of England

The coronavirus represents an unprecedented economic `` emergency '' and the Bank of England will do anything it takes - even radical money printing operations - if it needs to , the new governor has said .
In an interview with Sky News , Andrew Bailey , who took over from Mark Carney at the beginning of this week , said `` nothing is off the table '' and hinted that there could still be radical monetary moves yet to come , insisting : `` The Bank of England 's not done . ''
The comments came the morning after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ package aimed at preventing a depression as companies and households respond to the implications of mass shutdowns and containment measures across the UK .
Despite the scale of the package announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak - and analogous schemes from the US , France , Spain and other nations - markets were in freefall again with European indexes dropping to new post-crisis lows .
Mr Bailey said : `` It 's obviously an emergency , it 's a very serious situation .
`` I think we 're living in completely unparalleled times in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last week - the closing of borders , the reduction of internal movement , the measures that preventing people from going about their daily lives , with good reason .
`` All that of course has an effect on the economy and we 've seen this , it 's manifest all around us . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Mr Bailey added : `` It 's going to be a very big downturn - we know that . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2012 and the Chancellor Rishi Sunak last night , Mr Bailey said : `` We will do what it takes to meet the needs of the economy and the needs of the people of this country .
`` That 's our duty frankly .
We will we will meet that duty , which is why we 've acted now twice very , very decisively .
`` And , of course , I would n't want to tell you that it 's over because we will meet the needs of the economy and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Asked whether this included radical measures such as cutting rates to zero , a vast new quantitative easing scheme - a form of money creation - or even printing money to give directly to households , Mr Bailey said : `` Everything is on the table that is reasonable , within the policy tool set '' .
He added : `` We have a very large toolkit .
`` I do n't rule anything out , frankly , but please do n't therefore interpret it that we 're about to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their right mind in my role would say , well you know the following things I would never do - because that 's foolish .
`` We have to be broad minded about this .
`` You know the thing that was announced yesterday is in many ways as a quite a large step forward in terms of operations the Bank of England does because we have n't set any limit .
`` We will meet the needs of the economy . ''
Asked whether he was worried that the falls in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government and central bank 's response had failed to get ahead of the market reaction , boosting investors ' optimism , Mr Bailey said : `` We watch the market very carefully .
`` I always have one thing in mind .
`` You have to ask the question : what would they have been had we not acted , and that 's an important question .
`` They are sharply down .
I think getting ahead is what we obviously aim to do .
And it 's important . ''
The Bank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a week , but Mr Bailey hinted there may be more to come in the coming days .
`` I 'm clearly not going to rule it out because we have to meet the needs of the people of this country . ''
`` It would be foolhardy of me and I 'm not going to say : the Bank of England 's done .
`` Of course the Bank of England 's not done .
We have to support the people of this country . ''

The coronavirus represents an unprecedented economic "emergency" and the Bank of England will do anything it takes - even radical money printing operations - if it needs to, the new governor has said.
In an interview with Sky News, Andrew Bailey, who took over from Mark Carney at the beginning of this week, said "nothing is off the table" and hinted that there could still be radical monetary moves yet to come, insisting: "The Bank of England's not done."
The comments came the morning after the Bank and Treasury introduced a multibillion-pound package aimed at preventing a depression as companies and households respond to the implications of mass shutdowns and containment measures across the UK.
Despite the scale of the package announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak - and analogous schemes from the US, France, Spain and other nations - markets were in freefall again with European indexes dropping to new post-crisis lows.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:37 Coronavirus: UK's new economic measures explained
Mr Bailey said: "It's obviously an emergency, it's a very serious situation.
"I think we're living in completely unparalleled times in terms of what's happened in the last week - the closing of borders, the reduction of internal movement, the measures that preventing people from going about their daily lives, with good reason.
"All that of course has an effect on the economy and we've seen this, it's manifest all around us."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Mr Bailey added: "It's going to be a very big downturn - we know that."
Advertisement
Echoing the words of Mario Draghi in 2012 and the Chancellor Rishi Sunak last night, Mr Bailey said: "We will do what it takes to meet the needs of the economy and the needs of the people of this country.
"That's our duty frankly. We will we will meet that duty, which is why we've acted now twice very, very decisively.
"And, of course, I wouldn't want to tell you that it's over because we will meet the needs of the economy and the needs of the people of this country."
Asked whether this included radical measures such as cutting rates to zero, a vast new quantitative easing scheme - a form of money creation - or even printing money to give directly to households, Mr Bailey said: "Everything is on the table that is reasonable, within the policy tool set".
He added: "We have a very large toolkit.
"I don't rule anything out, frankly, but please don't therefore interpret it that we're about to do it either.
"I think nobody in their right mind in my role would say, well you know the following things I would never do - because that's foolish.
"We have to be broad minded about this.
"You know the thing that was announced yesterday is in many ways as a quite a large step forward in terms of operations the Bank of England does because we haven't set any limit.
"We will meet the needs of the economy."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 Analysis: Just how serious could COVID-19 cases be?
Asked whether he was worried that the falls in share prices on Wednesday suggested that the government and central bank's response had failed to get ahead of the market reaction, boosting investors' optimism, Mr Bailey said: "We watch the market very carefully.
"I always have one thing in mind.
"You have to ask the question: what would they have been had we not acted, and that's an important question.
"They are sharply down. I think getting ahead is what we obviously aim to do. And it's important."
The Bank has now acted twice in the space of a week, but Mr Bailey hinted there may be more to come in the coming days.
"I'm clearly not going to rule it out because we have to meet the needs of the people of this country."
"It would be foolhardy of me and I'm not going to say: the Bank of England's done.
"Of course the Bank of England's not done. We have to support the people of this country."


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: New evictions banned to help renters during crisis

The government is promising emergency legislation to suspend new evictions from social or rented accommodation for the duration of the coronavirus crisis .
Under urgent new laws , landlords will not be able to start proceedings to evict tenants for at least three months , due to the COVID-19 outbreak .
Ministers have also confirmed the three-month mortgage holiday announced on Tuesday will be extended to landlords whose tenants are experiencing difficulties due to coronavirus .
This is aimed at alleviating the concerns of landlords , who might be worried about meeting mortgage payments , and should therefore mean no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government is expecting landlords and tenants to work together to establish affordable repayment plans , taking into consideration tenants ' individual circumstances , at the end of the period .
: : Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The government has also worked alongside the master of the rolls , the president of the court of appeal , to make sure the pre-action protocol - which is the steps taken before a claim goes to court - can include private renters , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to better resolve any disputes .
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said : `` The government is clear - no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home , nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts .
`` These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage .
Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started .
`` These changes will protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets the support they need at this very difficult time . ''
`` This is a welcome change of view on protection for renters , '' he said .
`` As I said earlier in the week , only a ban on evictions gives renters confidence they wo n't lose their home if they 're ill .
It 's important the legislation allows flexibility to extend the ban beyond three months if needed . ''
Ben Beadle , Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords association said : `` Landlord groups welcomes government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we will work collaboratively with government to ensure these measures protect both landlords and tenants '' In a joint statement , the Residential Landlords Association and the National Landlords Association said : `` Our priority is to ensure that tenants are secure in their homes during this crisis .
`` The three-month buy to let mortgage payment holiday will take a lot of pressure off landlords enabling them to be as flexible as possible with tenants facing difficulties with their rent payments .
`` No responsible landlord will be considering evicting tenants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation . ''
On Monday , the prime minister asked Britons to stop going to theatres , pubs , bars and restaurants , plunging many service staff into uncertainty as if they will continue to get paid during the coronavirus pandemic .
Meanwhile , there have been a further 32 coronavirus-related deaths in England , taking the total number of fatalities in the UK to 104 .

The government is promising emergency legislation to suspend new evictions from social or rented accommodation for the duration of the coronavirus crisis.
Under urgent new laws, landlords will not be able to start proceedings to evict tenants for at least three months, due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Ministers have also confirmed the three-month mortgage holiday announced on Tuesday will be extended to landlords whose tenants are experiencing difficulties due to coronavirus.
This is aimed at alleviating the concerns of landlords, who might be worried about meeting mortgage payments, and should therefore mean no unnecessary pressure is put on their tenants.
The government is expecting landlords and tenants to work together to establish affordable repayment plans, taking into consideration tenants' individual circumstances, at the end of the period.
:: Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The government has also worked alongside the master of the rolls, the president of the court of appeal, to make sure the pre-action protocol - which is the steps taken before a claim goes to court - can include private renters, so that tenants and landlords are able to better resolve any disputes.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said: "The government is clear - no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home, nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Who is most at risk if they are infected by the coronavirus?
"These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage. Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started.
Advertisement
"These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring everyone gets the support they need at this very difficult time."
Shadow Housing Minister John Healey called the legislation a "welcome change".
"This is a welcome change of view on protection for renters," he said.
"As I said earlier in the week, only a ban on evictions gives renters confidence they won't lose their home if they're ill. It's important the legislation allows flexibility to extend the ban beyond three months if needed."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:39 'It's an emergency' - BoE governor on virus
Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords association said: "Landlord groups welcomes government support. We recognise the exceptional circumstances and we will work collaboratively with government to ensure these measures protect both landlords and tenants"
In a joint statement, the Residential Landlords Association and the National Landlords Association said: "Our priority is to ensure that tenants are secure in their homes during this crisis.
"The three-month buy to let mortgage payment holiday will take a lot of pressure off landlords enabling them to be as flexible as possible with tenants facing difficulties with their rent payments.
"No responsible landlord will be considering evicting tenants because of difficulties arising from the current situation."
On Monday, the prime minister asked Britons to stop going to theatres, pubs, bars and restaurants, plunging many service staff into uncertainty as if they will continue to get paid during the coronavirus pandemic.
Meanwhile, there have been a further 32 coronavirus-related deaths in England, taking the total number of fatalities in the UK to 104.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Criminals exploiting COVID-19 pandemic with email scams

Criminals are attempting to exploit the coronavirus crisis with a series of new scams related to the COVID-19 pandemic , experts have warned .
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute ( CTSI ) has urged the public to be aware of emails which look official and claim to be from the government .
The scam offers a tax rebate to support people through this difficult time .
Recipients are asked to click on a link and fill in their personal details , including their credit card number and address .
These details allow the scammer to take money directly from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scams include one claiming to be from the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) .
The email , which claims to hold crucial COVID-19 safety advice , has an attachment which downloads a keylogger , allowing scammers to follow the online movements of the user , and gain access to their device and personal details .
Citizens Advice has launched advice on coronavirus scams and a scam checker .
CTSI chief executive Leon Livermore said : `` It is abhorrent that unscrupulous individuals are using this difficult time as an opportunity to immiserate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be extra vigilant , and aware of these new scams that take many forms .
`` The general rule of scams applies - if it seems too good to be true , then it probably is .
`` CTSI is monitoring these developments and will update the public as we receive further intelligence .
`` In the meantime , the public should follow the official government advice , and take all necessary precautions . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agency earlier this week issued a warning about criminals using the coronavirus outbreak to launch online attacks due to an increase in people working from home .
Experts from the National Cyber Security Centre ( NCSC ) - a part of GCHQ - have said that a range of attacks are being carried out .
Cybercriminal gangs are also targeting healthcare professionals with phishing emails that pretend to be from each firm 's internal IT team .

Criminals are attempting to exploit the coronavirus crisis with a series of new scams related to the COVID-19 pandemic, experts have warned.
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has urged the public to be aware of emails which look official and claim to be from the government.
The scam offers a tax rebate to support people through this difficult time.
Recipients are asked to click on a link and fill in their personal details, including their credit card number and address.
These details allow the scammer to take money directly from the recipient's bank account.
Other email-based scams include one claiming to be from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The email, which claims to hold crucial COVID-19 safety advice, has an attachment which downloads a keylogger, allowing scammers to follow the online movements of the user, and gain access to their device and personal details.
Citizens Advice has launched advice on coronavirus scams and a scam checker.
CTSI chief executive Leon Livermore said: "It is abhorrent that unscrupulous individuals are using this difficult time as an opportunity to immiserate others further.
Advertisement
"Consumers should now be extra vigilant, and aware of these new scams that take many forms.
"The general rule of scams applies - if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
"CTSI is monitoring these developments and will update the public as we receive further intelligence.
"In the meantime, the public should follow the official government advice, and take all necessary precautions."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Earlier this week, the UK's cybersecurity agency earlier this week issued a warning about criminals using the coronavirus outbreak to launch online attacks due to an increase in people working from home.
Experts from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) - a part of GCHQ - have said that a range of attacks are being carried out.
Cybercriminal gangs are also targeting healthcare professionals with phishing emails that pretend to be from each firm's internal IT team.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Princess Beatrice cancels Buckingham Palace wedding reception

Princess Beatrice has cancelled her planned wedding reception in the Buckingham Palace Gardens because of the coronavirus .
A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said Beatrice and her fiance , Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi , are carefully considering government advice before deciding whether a private marriage might take place .
The couple are due to marry at the Chapel Royal , St James 's Palace , on Friday 29 May after they got engaged in Italy last September .
Buckingham Palace said in a statement : `` Princess Beatrice and Mr Mapelli Mozzi are very much looking forward to getting married but are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ undertaking any unnecessary risks in the current circumstances .
`` In line with government advice for the UK and beyond , the couple are reviewing their arrangements for 29 May .
`` They are particularly conscious of government advice in relation to both the wellbeing of older family members and large gatherings of people .
`` Therefore , the planned reception in the Buckingham Palace Gardens will not take place .
`` The couple will carefully consider government advice before deciding whether a private marriage might take place amongst a small group of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follows updated guidance from the government calling on people to stay away from pubs , clubs and theatres and to avoid all non-essential contacts and travel .
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases jumped by 676 to 2,626 on Wednesday , the biggest daily leap so far .
Total UK deaths now stand at 104 , after the latest daily figures stated that 32 more people had died in England .
A third patient in Scotland was also confirmed to have died .
All schools in Scotland and Wales are set to close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There is speculation similar measures will be announced in England over COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
Boris Johnson told the Commons during Prime Minister 's Questions that further decisions on school closures were `` to be taken imminently '' .
Glastonbury and the Eurovision Song Contest became the latest events to be cancelled due to the coronavirus on Wednesday .
The Who , Madonna and Miley Cyrus have cancelled live dates due to the COVID-19 outbreak , while festivals such as Coachella and Stagecoach in the US have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Big Weekend is among the other big music events called off by organisers in the UK .

Princess Beatrice has cancelled her planned wedding reception in the Buckingham Palace Gardens because of the coronavirus.
A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said Beatrice and her fiance, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, are carefully considering government advice before deciding whether a private marriage might take place.
The couple are due to marry at the Chapel Royal, St James's Palace, on Friday 29 May after they got engaged in Italy last September.
Image: Princess Beatrice and her fiance became engaged last September. Pic: @princesseugenie
Buckingham Palace said in a statement: "Princess Beatrice and Mr Mapelli Mozzi are very much looking forward to getting married but are equally aware of the need to avoid undertaking any unnecessary risks in the current circumstances.
"In line with government advice for the UK and beyond, the couple are reviewing their arrangements for 29 May.
"They are particularly conscious of government advice in relation to both the wellbeing of older family members and large gatherings of people.
"Therefore, the planned reception in the Buckingham Palace Gardens will not take place.
"The couple will carefully consider government advice before deciding whether a private marriage might take place amongst a small group of family and friends."
The announcement follows updated guidance from the government calling on people to stay away from pubs, clubs and theatres and to avoid all non-essential contacts and travel.
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases jumped by 676 to 2,626 on Wednesday, the biggest daily leap so far.
Total UK deaths now stand at 104, after the latest daily figures stated that 32 more people had died in England.
Advertisement
A third patient in Scotland was also confirmed to have died.
All schools in Scotland and Wales are set to close on Friday due to the pandemic.
There is speculation similar measures will be announced in England over COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
Boris Johnson told the Commons during Prime Minister's Questions that further decisions on school closures were "to be taken imminently".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:57 Coronavirus: What you need to know
Glastonbury and the Eurovision Song Contest became the latest events to be cancelled due to the coronavirus on Wednesday.
The Who, Madonna and Miley Cyrus have cancelled live dates due to the COVID-19 outbreak, while festivals such as Coachella and Stagecoach in the US have been postponed or called off.
Radio 1's Big Weekend is among the other big music events called off by organisers in the UK.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Nine good things to come out of COVID-19 pandemic

At least 200,000 people worldwide have been infected in the coronavirus pandemic and it has led to the deaths of more than 8,000 .
But as many countries are put on lockdown , some good things have emerged .
Amid the self-isolation which many have been forced to accept , here are nine positive effects which have come from the COVID-19 outbreak .
In Eastbourne , hundreds of people have signed up for a telephone befriending service to keep their community together .
Councillor Helen Burton said : `` People want to do something to help others , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sign up , email : eastbournevolunteers @ gmail.com : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Help for the elderly Panic buying is especially hard on older people , some of whom are less able to get to the shops regularly .
So supermarkets have responded , offering slots reserved for the elderly to make sure they do n't miss out on essentials .
Some banks are taking similar steps .
Up to 100,000 premature deaths caused by air pollution in China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economic slowdown continues at its current rate over the next year , researchers say .
Under measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus , local businesses have been shut , factories closed , social movement restricted and transportation throughout China brought to a halt .
As the burning of fossil fuels has dropped , air quality has improved significantly , the Centre for International Climate Research in Oslo ( Cicero ) has said and the impact will be felt worldwide .
128 professional clubs from the Premier League , EFL and across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tournament , with fans watching online encouraged to donate money .
Each club nominates one of its players to go up against another star from a different side - with the knockout tournament whittling its way down to two teams who will play in a final .
It is hoped £50,000 will be raised for research into COVID-19 .
Premier League club Chelsea has offered NHS workers free accommodation for the next two months at the Millennium Hotel at its Stamford Bridge ground .
The cost of the rooms will be covered by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pollution , Venice has been benefiting from the lockdown in Italy .
The city 's famous canals have never been cleaner , according to many reports .
The owner of fashion giant Louis Vuitton will provide French authorities with hand sanitiser `` for as long as necessary '' as the country battles against the coronavirus outbreak .
LVMH has instructed the perfumes and cosmetics side of the business to get ready to switch to hand sanitiser this week .
What 's more , it will be free .
There 's never been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's The Sopranos , The Wire , Breaking Bad or Peaky Blinders , we 're constantly told this is a golden age for television , especially drama .
What better time to watch that box set you never got around to in the past ?
Italians have been making their own entertainment since the country went into lockdown , not least in its crowded cities , where people have been channelling their inner Pavarotti to help pass the time .

At least 200,000 people worldwide have been infected in the coronavirus pandemic and it has led to the deaths of more than 8,000.
But as many countries are put on lockdown, some good things have emerged.
Amid the self-isolation which many have been forced to accept, here are nine positive effects which have come from the COVID-19 outbreak.
Community spirit
In Eastbourne, hundreds of people have signed up for a telephone befriending service to keep their community together.
Councillor Helen Burton said: "People want to do something to help others, which is fantastic.
For more information, or to sign up, email: eastbournevolunteers@gmail.com
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Help for the elderly
Advertisement
Panic buying is especially hard on older people, some of whom are less able to get to the shops regularly.
So supermarkets have responded, offering slots reserved for the elderly to make sure they don't miss out on essentials. Some banks are taking similar steps.
Image: Sainsbury's says its stores will only be open to customers over 70 and those with a disability for the first hour of trading on Thursday
Pollution down
Up to 100,000 premature deaths caused by air pollution in China could be avoided if the country's economic slowdown continues at its current rate over the next year, researchers say.
Under measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus, local businesses have been shut, factories closed, social movement restricted and transportation throughout China brought to a halt.
As the burning of fossil fuels has dropped, air quality has improved significantly, the Centre for International Climate Research in Oslo (Cicero) has said and the impact will be felt worldwide.
Image: Smog is normally typical in China, the world's biggest carbon polluter
Footballers play online games to raise money
128 professional clubs from the Premier League, EFL and across the globe are competing in an online FIFA tournament, with fans watching online encouraged to donate money.
Each club nominates one of its players to go up against another star from a different side - with the knockout tournament whittling its way down to two teams who will play in a final.
It is hoped £50,000 will be raised for research into COVID-19.
The Chelsea hotel opens to medical workers
Premier League club Chelsea has offered NHS workers free accommodation for the next two months at the Millennium Hotel at its Stamford Bridge ground.
The cost of the rooms will be covered by club owner Roman Abramovich.
Image: Chelsea's football ground, Stamford Bridge
Venice cleans up its act
Staying with pollution, Venice has been benefiting from the lockdown in Italy.
The city's famous canals have never been cleaner, according to many reports.
Clean hands back in fashion
The owner of fashion giant Louis Vuitton will provide French authorities with hand sanitiser "for as long as necessary" as the country battles against the coronavirus outbreak.
LVMH has instructed the perfumes and cosmetics side of the business to get ready to switch to hand sanitiser this week. What's more, it will be free.
Image: Racegoers use hand sanitiser to keep their hands clean at the Cheltenham Festival
There's never been a better time to stay in
Whether it's The Sopranos, The Wire, Breaking Bad or Peaky Blinders, we're constantly told this is a golden age for television, especially drama.
What better time to watch that box set you never got around to in the past?
Image: Jessie and Walter cooked up drugs in their university lab in Breaking Bad. Pic. Sony
Sing-a-long-a-lockdown
Italians have been making their own entertainment since the country went into lockdown, not least in its crowded cities, where people have been channelling their inner Pavarotti to help pass the time.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 Italians sing through coronavirus lockdown


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Pound at 35-year low as markets react to 'magnitude of pandemic'

Global stock markets have hit reverse again while the pound is at its lowest level against the dollar in 35 years as investors flee ever deepening gloom over the coronavirus crisis .
The FTSE 100 plunged by just over 4 % on Wednesday to 5,080 points - wiping out strong gains seen the day before - despite `` unprecedented '' measures announced by chancellor Rishi Sunak to help businesses and households weather the storm .
Markets had been lifted on Tuesday by the promise of stimulus measures , with New York 's Dow Jones climbing more than 5 % after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an $ 850bn stimulus package , including help for airlines .
But it took less than 24 hours for the enthusiasm to fade , with Asian markets falling again overnight and the US and European indices following , firmly in the red .
EasyJet was among the big FTSE fallers in London - losing 17 % as airline stocks continued to bear the brunt of the losses as travel shuts down .
Sky News has learned that the no-frills carrier has entered talks with unions on a package of measures that could see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unpaid leave over a six-month period .
The Dow had bled more than 2,000 points - almost 10 % - by the afternoon but recovered some of those losses late in the session to close 6.3 % down .
Values crashed below pre-Trump presidency levels after US treasury secretary Stephen Mnuchin said parts of the US economy would have to be shut down to `` destroy '' the virus .
Analysts from London Capital Group said that the `` magnitude of the pandemic is outweighing stimulus hopes '' .
: : Listen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
A slew of other markets were also in turmoil .
Brent crude oil was trading at a 16-year low of $ 26 dollars a barrel .
But the pound was having a particularly difficult time - down 2.5 % against the euro and more than 4 % against the US dollar at one stage , meaning that a pound bought €1.07 and $ 1.15 .
Neil Wilson at markets.com said the decline in sterling was `` one of the steepest in memory '' , leaving it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added : `` This is the worst sustained period of sterling selling that I can recall , and it points to a severe dollar liquidity crunch that central banks have yet to get a grip on .
There is a synchronised rush for dollars that has caught most companies , governments and traders on the hop .
Dollar funding issues have been far more serious than estimated prior to this crisis . ''
AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould said : `` Ultimately no amount of cash or measures to mitigate the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investors what they want to know right now , which is when daily life will return to normal ( or even a new normal ) . ''
Growing numbers of factories across Europe and the US are closing down - following the lead set by China at the beginning of the year as it coped with the early spread of coronavirus .
The global economy is , according to many economists , almost certain to be already in recession given the scale of the disruption .
COVID-19 , the illness caused by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and killed more than 8,200 to date , including 104 in the UK .
A decision to close UK schools from Friday evening , except for the children of key public workers and those deemed vulnerable , will put greater pressure on the economy as parents are forced away from their work .
Matthew Fell , the CBI 's chief UK policy director , said : `` Businesses will do all they can to help their employees in these unprecedented times .
`` Companies will make every effort to offer flexible working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to do their jobs and care for their children at the same time .
`` With so many businesses already struggling with cashflow , government will urgently need to step in with additional support to employees who are unable to work because of school closures . ''

Global stock markets have hit reverse again while the pound is at its lowest level against the dollar in 35 years as investors flee ever deepening gloom over the coronavirus crisis.
The FTSE 100 plunged by just over 4% on Wednesday to 5,080 points - wiping out strong gains seen the day before - despite "unprecedented" measures announced by chancellor Rishi Sunak to help businesses and households weather the storm.
Markets had been lifted on Tuesday by the promise of stimulus measures, with New York's Dow Jones climbing more than 5% after US President Donald Trump unveiled plans for an $850bn stimulus package, including help for airlines.
But it took less than 24 hours for the enthusiasm to fade, with Asian markets falling again overnight and the US and European indices following, firmly in the red.
EasyJet was among the big FTSE fallers in London - losing 17% as airline stocks continued to bear the brunt of the losses as travel shuts down.
Sky News has learned that the no-frills carrier has entered talks with unions on a package of measures that could see staff forced to take three months of unpaid leave over a six-month period.
A group of other UK-listed firms issued profit warnings.
The Dow had bled more than 2,000 points - almost 10% - by the afternoon but recovered some of those losses late in the session to close 6.3% down.
Values crashed below pre-Trump presidency levels after US treasury secretary Stephen Mnuchin said parts of the US economy would have to be shut down to "destroy" the virus.
Advertisement
Analysts from London Capital Group said that the "magnitude of the pandemic is outweighing stimulus hopes".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
A slew of other markets were also in turmoil.
Brent crude oil was trading at a 16-year low of $26 dollars a barrel.
But the pound was having a particularly difficult time - down 2.5% against the euro and more than 4% against the US dollar at one stage, meaning that a pound bought €1.07 and $1.15.
Neil Wilson at markets.com said the decline in sterling was "one of the steepest in memory", leaving it at its weakest level since 1985.
He added: "This is the worst sustained period of sterling selling that I can recall, and it points to a severe dollar liquidity crunch that central banks have yet to get a grip on. There is a synchronised rush for dollars that has caught most companies, governments and traders on the hop. Dollar funding issues have been far more serious than estimated prior to this crisis."
AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould said: "Ultimately no amount of cash or measures to mitigate the economic impact of the crash can tell investors what they want to know right now, which is when daily life will return to normal (or even a new normal)."
Growing numbers of factories across Europe and the US are closing down - following the lead set by China at the beginning of the year as it coped with the early spread of coronavirus.
The global economy is, according to many economists, almost certain to be already in recession given the scale of the disruption.
Image: The US markets close later today following falls in Asia and Europe
COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, has infected more than 207,000 people and killed more than 8,200 to date, including 104 in the UK.
A decision to close UK schools from Friday evening, except for the children of key public workers and those deemed vulnerable, will put greater pressure on the economy as parents are forced away from their work.
Matthew Fell, the CBI's chief UK policy director, said: "Businesses will do all they can to help their employees in these unprecedented times.
"Companies will make every effort to offer flexible working, but many parents simply won't be able to do their jobs and care for their children at the same time.
"With so many businesses already struggling with cashflow, government will urgently need to step in with additional support to employees who are unable to work because of school closures."


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: To beer or not to beer? Many Britons going to pub despite PM's advice

People across the UK are continuing to go to pubs , bars and restaurants - despite the government urging the public to avoid them .
On Monday , Boris Johnson said people needed to stop all non-essential social contact in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus .
But pubs , bars and restaurants are still allowed to open - unlike in parts of Spain and Italy - and many people are choosing to use them .
Hospitality businesses have already seen an impact because of the coronavirus - and some have warned they can not afford to shut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BRO7THERS brewing company , Keith McAvoy , said the two bars they operate in Manchester had a similar number of people to usual on Monday but had seen a downturn on Tuesday .
The company still expects around half their normal numbers over the next two days though , and have implemented additional cleaning measures to keep customers safe .
He said : `` We have instructed all our staff to wipe down all contact surfaces every 30 minutes and they must wash their hands at the same frequency .
`` We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distance whilst in our bar and to maintain their own personal hygiene regime . ''
The company employs over 45 people and Mr McAvoy said that , even with the government 's promise of support , they were still having to consider taking further measures in order to survive .
One of Britain 's biggest pub and restaurant owners has warned that sales are `` getting worse by the day '' - and others have said they expect `` significantly lower sales in the coming weeks '' .
: : Listen to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
The Wetherspoon pub chain has announced that all 870 of its pubs are to remain open , but customers will pay by card , avoid standing at the bar and sit at alternate tables .
Many theatres and cinemas closed following the government 's advice and many sporting events have also been cancelled , but some public events are still going ahead .
On Tuesday , hundreds of people attended a St Patrick 's Day celebration in Liverpool 's Concert Square , leading to calls on social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Health experts say people who fail to rigorously follow advice to avoid pubs , restaurants and other social gatherings could make the outbreak worse .
`` We really need to reduce transmission rates to a level that the NHS can sustain , '' says Professor Graham Medley , director of the Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine .
`` Lots of transmission now will lead to more cases in a few weeks .
`` Many people have reduced their contacts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the NHS can cope with , then the only thing that government can do is to introduce further measures to slow spread .
`` We can not get into a situation in which there is , essentially , no health service .
If hospitals are full of people with COVID-19 , what happens to people having heart attacks or falling off ladders ? ''

People across the UK are continuing to go to pubs, bars and restaurants - despite the government urging the public to avoid them.
On Monday, Boris Johnson said people needed to stop all non-essential social contact in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
But pubs, bars and restaurants are still allowed to open - unlike in parts of Spain and Italy - and many people are choosing to use them.
Image: Revellers in an Irish pub in central London on Tuesday
Hospitality businesses have already seen an impact because of the coronavirus - and some have warned they cannot afford to shut.
The chief executive of the SEVEN BRO7THERS brewing company, Keith McAvoy, said the two bars they operate in Manchester had a similar number of people to usual on Monday but had seen a downturn on Tuesday.
The company still expects around half their normal numbers over the next two days though, and have implemented additional cleaning measures to keep customers safe.
He said: "We have instructed all our staff to wipe down all contact surfaces every 30 minutes and they must wash their hands at the same frequency.
"We have also asked people to keep a safe distance whilst in our bar and to maintain their own personal hygiene regime."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:41 Government pledge to steady the economy
The company employs over 45 people and Mr McAvoy said that, even with the government's promise of support, they were still having to consider taking further measures in order to survive.
Advertisement
One of Britain's biggest pub and restaurant owners has warned that sales are "getting worse by the day" - and others have said they expect "significantly lower sales in the coming weeks".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
The Wetherspoon pub chain has announced that all 870 of its pubs are to remain open, but customers will pay by card, avoid standing at the bar and sit at alternate tables.
Many theatres and cinemas closed following the government's advice and many sporting events have also been cancelled, but some public events are still going ahead.
On Tuesday, hundreds of people attended a St Patrick's Day celebration in Liverpool's Concert Square, leading to calls on social media for large gatherings to be banned.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:37 Coronavirus: UK's new economic measures explained
Health experts say people who fail to rigorously follow advice to avoid pubs, restaurants and other social gatherings could make the outbreak worse.
"We really need to reduce transmission rates to a level that the NHS can sustain," says Professor Graham Medley, director of the Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
"Lots of transmission now will lead to more cases in a few weeks.
"Many people have reduced their contacts, but if transmission is above the level that the NHS can cope with, then the only thing that government can do is to introduce further measures to slow spread.
"We cannot get into a situation in which there is, essentially, no health service. If hospitals are full of people with COVID-19, what happens to people having heart attacks or falling off ladders?"


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Water firms issue blockage warning as people use toilet paper 'alternatives'

Drains and sewers are in danger of becoming blocked as people use wet wipes , paper towels - and possibly even newspaper - because they ca n't find loo roll at the supermarket .
Water companies in the UK and Australia have warned against using alternatives which are unflushable .
They say if there is no other option , wipes and kitchen roll should be disposed of in the bin .
Social media campaigns are urging people to stick to toilet roll as some people panic-buy and strip shelves bare during the coronavirus outbreak .
South West Water tweeted : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't flush kitchen roll , wet wipes or newspaper down the loo as these can cause major blockages in our sewers .
`` Only flush the # 3Ps - pee , paper and poo .
Anything else , throw in the bin . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Thames Water said on Facebook : `` We 're reminding everyone to help us by not flushing wet wipes / kitchen roll down their toilets if they 're affected by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get rid of used wipes & other cleaning products from their homes .
`` Instead , they should be thrown in the bin .
Thank you . ''
Severn Trent added that while wipes and kitchen roll may seem `` harmless '' they `` do n't break down as toilet paper does '' .
`` That can cause flooding in roads , homes and businesses .
It 's the last thing we want you to experience in difficult and challenging times like these , '' said the company .
`` Please put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bin if you use them , do n't flush them . ''
Water companies in Australia - which has seen supermarket brawls due to panic buying - have issued similar warnings .
Coliban Water in Victoria said a blockage in the system , caused by wet wipes and paper towels , spilled into Bendigo Creek at Long Gully at the weekend .
It said around 20,000 litres of waste water spilled into the creek , leading to an `` extensive clean-up and cost '' .
`` We know they all look flushable , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paper is created equally , '' said Steve Dunlop , customer operations manager .
`` Most of these products are designed to absorb water , not break down .
They block the system and cost customers as well as Coliban Water money .
`` We ca n't emphasise enough the consequences of sewer spills to both the environment and the community .
The cost to Coliban Water to remove blockages and clean up spills is a cost to all of us . ''
He added : `` Foreign objects can also block plumbing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money , time and inconvenience of repair and clean-up . ''
Governments around the world have told people not to panic buy , but many are doing the opposite .
Some supermarkets in the UK have now enforced restrictions on essentials including toilet paper and soap .

Drains and sewers are in danger of becoming blocked as people use wet wipes, paper towels - and possibly even newspaper - because they can't find loo roll at the supermarket.
Water companies in the UK and Australia have warned against using alternatives which are unflushable.
They say if there is no other option, wipes and kitchen roll should be disposed of in the bin.
Social media campaigns are urging people to stick to toilet roll as some people panic-buy and strip shelves bare during the coronavirus outbreak.
Image: South West Water published this image as it warned customers not to use toilet paper alternatives
South West Water tweeted: "Let's work together. Please don't flush kitchen roll, wet wipes or newspaper down the loo as these can cause major blockages in our sewers.
"Only flush the #3Ps - pee, paper and poo. Anything else, throw in the bin."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Thames Water said on Facebook: "We're reminding everyone to help us by not flushing wet wipes / kitchen roll down their toilets if they're affected by a toilet paper shortage or simply want to get rid of used wipes & other cleaning products from their homes.
"Instead, they should be thrown in the bin. Thank you."
Advertisement
Severn Trent added that while wipes and kitchen roll may seem "harmless" they "don't break down as toilet paper does".
"That can cause flooding in roads, homes and businesses. It's the last thing we want you to experience in difficult and challenging times like these," said the company.
"Please put wet wipes or kitchen roll in a bin if you use them, don't flush them."
Water companies in Australia - which has seen supermarket brawls due to panic buying - have issued similar warnings.
Coliban Water in Victoria said a blockage in the system, caused by wet wipes and paper towels, spilled into Bendigo Creek at Long Gully at the weekend.
It said around 20,000 litres of waste water spilled into the creek, leading to an "extensive clean-up and cost".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:28 The battle for loo roll in Australia
"We know they all look flushable, but the reality is, not all paper is created equally," said Steve Dunlop, customer operations manager.
"Most of these products are designed to absorb water, not break down. They block the system and cost customers as well as Coliban Water money.
"We can't emphasise enough the consequences of sewer spills to both the environment and the community. The cost to Coliban Water to remove blockages and clean up spills is a cost to all of us."
He added: "Foreign objects can also block plumbing on your own property, costing you money, time and inconvenience of repair and clean-up."
North East Water and Sydney Water have issued similar warnings.
Governments around the world have told people not to panic buy, but many are doing the opposite.
Some supermarkets in the UK have now enforced restrictions on essentials including toilet paper and soap.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: London mortuary being expanded to cope with deaths

A mortuary in the heart of London is being expanded to cope with the bodies of coronavirus victims .
Work began today at Westminster morgue , where the capacity to store 102 corpses is likely to be almost doubled to deal with the COVID-19 crisis .
It will also be used for post-mortem examinations .
The capital is a coronavirus hotspot , where at least 35 of the 104 UK deaths so far have been recorded .
It comes after the number of confirmed cases in the UK rose by 676 in the last 24 hours , taking the total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 250,000 people might die if no restrictions were introduced .
The Westminster mortuary is one of several in London and was last expanded in 2008 , with the addition of a state-of-the-art forensic facility for autopsies for suspicious deaths .
The morgue is large enough to deal with mass deaths , but ministers believe it would be overwhelmed by the predicted number of coronavirus deaths .
A spokesperson for Westminster City Council said : `` This is a precautionary step and similar arrangements are made during any London wide response to incidents .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be needed but it is sensible to prepare at this stage . ''
Major hospitals have their own mortuaries and they are likely to be expanded , along with those like Westminster , which are attached to coroner 's courts .
A similar , temporary extension was built to accommodate the bodies of victims of the Grenfell Tower fire .
The structure sits on a plot of land traditionally used by black cab drivers resting between fares .
The space offers them toilet facilities and cheap parking .
The pop-up morgue came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but cabbies have been told it is likely to stay open much longer this time .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
• All schools in Scotland and Wales are set to close on Friday in response to the pandemic • A `` radical '' money printing plan is being considered by the Bank of England , its new governor tells Sky News • This year 's Glastonbury festival and the Eurovision Song Contest have been cancelled • Sainsbury 's , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stop panic buys • An inmate at HMP Manchester has tested positive for COVID-19 - the first confirmed UK prisoner case • The Foreign Office urges British holidaymakers to leave Spain as soon as possible as all hotels will close there from Tuesday • Filming on EastEnders and other BBC dramas Casualty , Doctors and Holby City has been suspended until further notice

A mortuary in the heart of London is being expanded to cope with the bodies of coronavirus victims.
Work began today at Westminster morgue, where the capacity to store 102 corpses is likely to be almost doubled to deal with the COVID-19 crisis.
It will also be used for post-mortem examinations.
The capital is a coronavirus hotspot, where at least 35 of the 104 UK deaths so far have been recorded.
It comes after the number of confirmed cases in the UK rose by 676 in the last 24 hours, taking the total to 2,626.
Worst-case predictions originally suggested 250,000 people might die if no restrictions were introduced.
The Westminster mortuary is one of several in London and was last expanded in 2008, with the addition of a state-of-the-art forensic facility for autopsies for suspicious deaths.
:: Listen to Backstage on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The morgue is large enough to deal with mass deaths, but ministers believe it would be overwhelmed by the predicted number of coronavirus deaths.
Advertisement
A spokesperson for Westminster City Council said: "This is a precautionary step and similar arrangements are made during any London wide response to incidents. We hope and trust that this will not be needed but it is sensible to prepare at this stage."
Major hospitals have their own mortuaries and they are likely to be expanded, along with those like Westminster, which are attached to coroner's courts.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:23 London landmarks deserted amid outbreak
A similar, temporary extension was built to accommodate the bodies of victims of the Grenfell Tower fire.
The structure sits on a plot of land traditionally used by black cab drivers resting between fares. The space offers them toilet facilities and cheap parking.
The pop-up morgue came down around three months after Grenfell, but cabbies have been told it is likely to stay open much longer this time.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
In other UK developments


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Fears of a recession as government pledges help for the economy

On this edition of the Sky News Daily podcast with Jonathan Samuels , we discuss the new measures unveiled by @ @ @ @ @ the economy - as analysts warn of a looming global recession because of coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ 's economics editor Ed Conway , political correspondent Kate McCann , and Claire Walker from @ @ @ @ @ .
Plus , as the government tells us to avoid pubs , we get the @ @ @ @ @ and Paul and Donna Berry .
What does the COVID-19 pandemic mean for the climate @ @ @ @ @ so far with Dr Simon Evans , from Carbon Brief , and Sky 's climate @ @ @ @ @ .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @

On this edition of the Sky News Daily podcast with Jonathan Samuels, we discuss the new measures unveiled by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to support the economy - as analysts warn of a looming global recession because of coronavirus.
We're joined by Sky's economics editor Ed Conway, political correspondent Kate McCann, and Claire Walker from the British Chambers of Commerce.
Plus, as the government tells us to avoid pubs, we get the views of landlords Kate Ahrens and Paul and Donna Berry.
What does the COVID-19 pandemic mean for the climate? We consider the data so far with Dr Simon Evans, from Carbon Brief, and Sky's climate change correspondent, Lisa Holland.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Woman beats lockdown to share engagement news with granddad

A woman has shared news of her engagement with her grandfather despite him staying in a care home under lockdown in a moment that has been shared thousands of times on Facebook .
A picture of Carly Boyd showing Shelton Boyd her ring and touching hands either side of the window of his room at the home in North Carolina has attracted 225,000 likes and nearly 10,000 comments .
Ms Boyd , a student nurse who got engaged to Trevor Sellers at the weekend , wrote on her Facebook page : `` So glad I was allowed to see my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this virus I was still able to tell him I am engaged !
! ''
.
She added on Facebook .
`` Thank you premier living staff !
! ''
The facility described the moment on Facebook as `` emotional and memorable , for sure !
! ''
Flo Berg said on Facebook : `` I love this .
If there 's a will there 's a way !
! ''
Sue Busa posted : `` I window hung with my mom today .
Made her feel less alone and forgotten ... '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very close '' , shared the intimate moment on Monday , after Ms Boyd arrived at the home to drop off his laundry .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Gennie Parnell , an administrator for the Premier Living and Rehab Center in Lake Waccamaw , told NBC News : `` He was laying up there eating some ice cream .
He is the sweetest gentleman .
`` He got up to see it better and she put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he put his hand on the window , and we all just fell apart . ''
It all started , she said , from an overheard conversation .
`` The activities director was talking to her and I heard her say something like 'congratulations ' and I realised she had gotten engaged over the weekend .
`` We were standing there talking and she kept glancing over that way where his room is , and as they were getting ready to leave , it hit me .
`` I said , 'Would you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say hey ? '
And she said , 'Can I ? '
I said , 'Sure ! '
'' Premier Living and Rehab Center has stopped all visits on government advice to help slow down the spread of coronavirus .

A woman has shared news of her engagement with her grandfather despite him staying in a care home under lockdown in a moment that has been shared thousands of times on Facebook.
A picture of Carly Boyd showing Shelton Boyd her ring and touching hands either side of the window of his room at the home in North Carolina has attracted 225,000 likes and nearly 10,000 comments.
Ms Boyd, a student nurse who got engaged to Trevor Sellers at the weekend, wrote on her Facebook page: "So glad I was allowed to see my grandfather, even under the circumstances of this virus I was still able to tell him I am engaged!!".
She added on Facebook. "Thank you premier living staff!!"
Image: The pair touched hands either side of the window. Pic: Premier Living and Rehab Centere
The facility described the moment on Facebook as "emotional and memorable, for sure!!"
Online comments were similarly positive.
Flo Berg said on Facebook: "I love this. If there's a will there's a way!!"
Nic Lynne commented: "I'm crying like a baby!!"
Sue Busa posted: "I window hung with my mom today. Made her feel less alone and forgotten..."
Advertisement
The pair, said to be "very close", shared the intimate moment on Monday, after Ms Boyd arrived at the home to drop off his laundry.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Gennie Parnell, an administrator for the Premier Living and Rehab Center in Lake Waccamaw, told NBC News: "He was laying up there eating some ice cream. He is the sweetest gentleman.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 What is herd immunity?
"He got up to see it better and she put her hand up on the window and he put his hand on the window, and we all just fell apart."
It all started, she said, from an overheard conversation.
"The activities director was talking to her and I heard her say something like 'congratulations' and I realised she had gotten engaged over the weekend.
"We were standing there talking and she kept glancing over that way where his room is, and as they were getting ready to leave, it hit me.
"I said, 'Would you like to go to the window to say hey?' And she said, 'Can I?' I said, 'Sure!'"
Premier Living and Rehab Center has stopped all visits on government advice to help slow down the spread of coronavirus.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Vanessa Hudgens criticised for 'heartless' comments on pandemic

Vanessa Hudgens has apologised after making `` heartless '' comments about the coronavirus outbreak .
The High School Musical actress had complained about the US response to the pandemic in an Instagram Live video .
`` Umm , yeah , 'til July sounds like a bunch of bulls**t , '' she said in response to the potential timeline for being quarantined .
The 31-year-old continued : `` I 'm sorry , but like , it 's a virus , I get it , like , I respect it , but at the same time I 'm like , even if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people are going to die , which is terrible but like , inevitable ? ''
Social media users described her comments as `` horrible '' and `` heartless '' .
Following the backlash , the actress posted a video on her Instagram story , saying her words had been `` taken out of context '' .
`` I do n't take this situation lightly by any means .
So stay inside y'all , '' she added .
In a separate statement on Twitter , she wrote : `` Hey guys .
I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offended anyone and everyone who has seen the clip from my Instagram live yesterday .
`` I realise my words were insensitive and not at all appropriate for the situation our country and the world are in right now .
`` This has been a huge wake up call about the significance my words have , now more than ever .
`` I 'm sending safe wishes to everyone to stay safe and healthy during this crazy time . ''
Many parts of the US have taken sweeping measures to curb the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials announced a complete lockdown of the Bay Area , urging people to stay at home except for essential needs .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that no gatherings of 50 people or more should be held for the next eight weeks .
Theatres , fitness clubs and bars have also been told to close .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker There have been more than 6,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the US , according to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Engineering .
More than 100 people who tested positive for the virus have died in the States .

Vanessa Hudgens has apologised after making "heartless" comments about the coronavirus outbreak.
The High School Musical actress had complained about the US response to the pandemic in an Instagram Live video.
"Umm, yeah, 'til July sounds like a bunch of bulls**t," she said in response to the potential timeline for being quarantined.
The 31-year-old continued: "I'm sorry, but like, it's a virus, I get it, like, I respect it, but at the same time I'm like, even if everybody gets it, like yeah, people are going to die, which is terrible but like, inevitable?"
Social media users described her comments as "horrible" and "heartless".
Following the backlash, the actress posted a video on her Instagram story, saying her words had been "taken out of context".
"I don't take this situation lightly by any means. So stay inside y'all," she added.
:: Listen to Backstage on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In a separate statement on Twitter, she wrote: "Hey guys. I'm so sorry for the way I have offended anyone and everyone who has seen the clip from my Instagram live yesterday.
Advertisement
"I realise my words were insensitive and not at all appropriate for the situation our country and the world are in right now.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:31 Hudgens: Comments were 'taken out of context'
"This has been a huge wake up call about the significance my words have, now more than ever.
"I'm sending safe wishes to everyone to stay safe and healthy during this crazy time."
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Many parts of the US have taken sweeping measures to curb the spread of the virus.
In California, officials announced a complete lockdown of the Bay Area, urging people to stay at home except for essential needs.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:39 'We're going big' - Trump on virus stimulus
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that no gatherings of 50 people or more should be held for the next eight weeks.
Theatres, fitness clubs and bars have also been told to close.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
There have been more than 6,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the US, according to the Johns Hopkins Center for Systems Science and Engineering.
More than 100 people who tested positive for the virus have died in the States.


news--2020-03-18--B&Q-owner Kingfisher eyes rent deal shift in bid to save cash

Britain ’ s biggest DIY retailer is planning to ditch a decades-old system for paying rents across its 950 UK stores in a bid to conserve cash during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Sky News has learnt that Kingfisher , which owns B & Q and Screwfix Direct , is to open talks with landlords in the coming days about switching to monthly - rather than quarterly - rental payments .
The change , if agreed with landlords , would offer further evidence of the ways in which the coronavirus outbreak is forcing retailers and hospitality businesses to seek ways of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In recent days , major non-food retailers have discussed their approach to dealing with the crisis as they face up to the prospect of a protracted period with zero or negligible revenues from their vast store estates .
Sources said Kingfisher , which has been forced to temporarily close its shops in France and Spain for up to four weeks , was hoping to secure agreement from landlords ahead of the quarterly rent payment day next week .
Traditionally , retailers have paid their rent for three months in advance , four times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ switch to a monthly payment , the effect of which would be to keep a significant additional sum of cash on its balance sheet during the intervening periods .
The company is not , however , proposing to reduce rent payments and has no plans to indicate that it might unilaterally suspend them .
A Kingfisher spokesman declined to disclose its annual rent bill , but said : `` We are looking to work constructively with our landlords to successfully navigate our way through these extraordinary times . ''
B & Q , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK , accounts for the vast majority of its parent 's property costs , owing to the size of its outlets .
Screwfix Direct 's shops , while more numerous , are far smaller .
Any switch to the rent payment model will underline the growing pressure on commercial landlords , which are facing unprecedented pressure after two years in which they have been deluged with retailers and restaurant chains slashing rents as part of rescue deals .
Debenhams , the beleaguered department store chain , wants to avoid paying rents altogether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported this week .
Numerous other retailers and restaurant operators are now in discussions with landlords and other creditors about urgent reducing their costs during the COVID-19 crisis .
Burger King UK is understood to have decided to temporarily freeze VAT and national insurance contributions to the taxman , while also suspending rent payments .
The fact that a retailer as large as Kingfisher is seeking to overturn decades of convention by approaching landlords further reinforces that pressure .
One source said that landlords were the only major retail creditor which received payment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's time for the commercial property-owners to move into the real world their customers are facing , '' he said .
The big landlords are facing huge uncertainty , exacerbated by the spread of the virus , with the Trafford Centre-owner Intu Properties struggling to avoid financial collapse .
Kingfisher will be among the beneficiaries of the 12-month business rates holiday announced by the Chancellor , Rishi Sunak , as part of a £350bn emergency aid package for businesses .
Earlier this week , it said it was too early to predict the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results .
`` While significant uncertainty exists around the impact of COVID-19 , we are taking immediate and significant measures to contain our costs and protect our financial position , '' Thierry Garnier , Kingfisher chief executive , said on Monday .
`` We have a strong balance sheet , with significant liquidity headroom and limited financial debt . ''

Britain’s biggest DIY retailer is planning to ditch a decades-old system for paying rents across its 950 UK stores in a bid to conserve cash during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sky News has learnt that Kingfisher, which owns B&Q and Screwfix Direct, is to open talks with landlords in the coming days about switching to monthly - rather than quarterly - rental payments.
The change, if agreed with landlords, would offer further evidence of the ways in which the coronavirus outbreak is forcing retailers and hospitality businesses to seek ways of easing the strain on their cashflows.
In recent days, major non-food retailers have discussed their approach to dealing with the crisis as they face up to the prospect of a protracted period with zero or negligible revenues from their vast store estates.
Sources said Kingfisher, which has been forced to temporarily close its shops in France and Spain for up to four weeks, was hoping to secure agreement from landlords ahead of the quarterly rent payment day next week.
Traditionally, retailers have paid their rent for three months in advance, four times a year.
Kingfisher now wants to switch to a monthly payment, the effect of which would be to keep a significant additional sum of cash on its balance sheet during the intervening periods.
The company is not, however, proposing to reduce rent payments and has no plans to indicate that it might unilaterally suspend them.
A Kingfisher spokesman declined to disclose its annual rent bill, but said: "We are looking to work constructively with our landlords to successfully navigate our way through these extraordinary times."
Advertisement
B&Q, which trades from nearly 300 stores in the UK, accounts for the vast majority of its parent's property costs, owing to the size of its outlets.
Screwfix Direct's shops, while more numerous, are far smaller.
Any switch to the rent payment model will underline the growing pressure on commercial landlords, which are facing unprecedented pressure after two years in which they have been deluged with retailers and restaurant chains slashing rents as part of rescue deals.
Debenhams, the beleaguered department store chain, wants to avoid paying rents altogether for five months, the Financial Times reported this week.
Numerous other retailers and restaurant operators are now in discussions with landlords and other creditors about urgent reducing their costs during the COVID-19 crisis.
Burger King UK is understood to have decided to temporarily freeze VAT and national insurance contributions to the taxman, while also suspending rent payments.
The fact that a retailer as large as Kingfisher is seeking to overturn decades of convention by approaching landlords further reinforces that pressure.
One source said that landlords were the only major retail creditor which received payment three months in advance.
"It's time for the commercial property-owners to move into the real world their customers are facing," he said.
The big landlords are facing huge uncertainty, exacerbated by the spread of the virus, with the Trafford Centre-owner Intu Properties struggling to avoid financial collapse.
Kingfisher will be among the beneficiaries of the 12-month business rates holiday announced by the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, as part of a £350bn emergency aid package for businesses.
Earlier this week, it said it was too early to predict the impact of the virus on its 2020-21 results.
"While significant uncertainty exists around the impact of COVID-19, we are taking immediate and significant measures to contain our costs and protect our financial position," Thierry Garnier, Kingfisher chief executive, said on Monday.
"We have a strong balance sheet, with significant liquidity headroom and limited financial debt."


news--2020-03-21--Kenny Rogers: Country music legend dies aged 81

Country music legend Kenny Rogers who had a series of hits , including Coward of the County and The Gambler , has died at the age of 81 .
The Grammy-winning star , whose career spanned six decades , `` passed away peacefully at home from natural causes under the care of hospice and surrounded by his family '' , his representative said in a statement .
Rogers , who also enjoyed success in partnership with Dolly Parton , had announced a farewell tour in 2015 but had continued performing until 2017 .
The Houston-born singer , known for his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sold tens of millions of records and broke through into the world of pop .
He also gained fame as an actor , starring in TV movies based on The Gambler and other songs , making him a superstar in the 1970s and 80s .
However , despite his crossover success , he always preferred to be thought of as a country singer .
Speaking in 2015 , he said : `` You either do what everyone else is doing and you do it better , or you do what no one else @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comparison .
`` And I chose that way because I could never be better than Johnny Cash or Willie or Waylon at what they did .
`` So I found something that I could do that did n't invite comparison to them .
And I think people thought it was my desire to change country music .
But that was never my issue . ''
His background was a real rags-to-riches story , befitting of a country singer , having been brought up in public housing together with seven siblings .
Striking out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his first big hit was with the sad country ballad Lucille , in 1977 , which crossed over to the pop charts and earned Rogers his first Grammy .
The Gambler , which came out in 1978 , became his signature song with the refrain : `` You got ta know when to hold 'em , know when to fold 'em . ''
The song spawned a hit TV movie of the same name and several more sequels featuring Rogers as professional gambler Brady Hawkes .
One of his biggest successes was Lady @ @ @ @ @ @ @ topped the charts for six weeks straight in 1980 .
While he often worked with female duet partners , his most memorable pairing was with Parton , who he toured with around the world .
They last performed together at his all-star retirement concert , held in Nashville in 2017 .
Although by the 1990 's his chart hits had faded , he still remained a popular live entertainer with regular touring .
As well as being a keen photographer that led to several books , he was also a successful businessman , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rogers Roasters .
He had a brief chart comeback in 2000 , with the hit Buy Me A Rose , which event earned him his first No 1 country song in 13 years .
Rogers ' family is planning a private service `` out of concern for the national COVID-19 emergency '' .
A public memorial will be held at a later date .

Country music legend Kenny Rogers who had a series of hits, including Coward of the County and The Gambler, has died at the age of 81.
The Grammy-winning star, whose career spanned six decades, "passed away peacefully at home from natural causes under the care of hospice and surrounded by his family", his representative said in a statement.
Rogers, who also enjoyed success in partnership with Dolly Parton, had announced a farewell tour in 2015 but had continued performing until 2017.
Image: Rogers also enjoyed success in partnership with Dolly Parton
The Houston-born singer, known for his trademark husky voice and silver beard, sold tens of millions of records and broke through into the world of pop.
He also gained fame as an actor, starring in TV movies based on The Gambler and other songs, making him a superstar in the 1970s and 80s.
However, despite his crossover success, he always preferred to be thought of as a country singer.
Speaking in 2015, he said: "You either do what everyone else is doing and you do it better, or you do what no one else is doing and you don't invite comparison.
"And I chose that way because I could never be better than Johnny Cash or Willie or Waylon at what they did.
"So I found something that I could do that didn't invite comparison to them. And I think people thought it was my desire to change country music. But that was never my issue."
Advertisement
Image: The height of the singer's fame came in the 1970s and 80s
His background was a real rags-to-riches story, befitting of a country singer, having been brought up in public housing together with seven siblings.
Striking out on a solo career in 1974, his first big hit was with the sad country ballad Lucille, in 1977, which crossed over to the pop charts and earned Rogers his first Grammy.
The Gambler, which came out in 1978, became his signature song with the refrain: "You gotta know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em."
The song spawned a hit TV movie of the same name and several more sequels featuring Rogers as professional gambler Brady Hawkes.
One of his biggest successes was Lady, written by Lionel Richie, which topped the charts for six weeks straight in 1980.
Image: The singer was also a successful businessman, owning a chain of restaurants called Kenny Rogers Roasters
While he often worked with female duet partners, his most memorable pairing was with Parton, who he toured with around the world.
They last performed together at his all-star retirement concert, held in Nashville in 2017.
Although by the 1990's his chart hits had faded, he still remained a popular live entertainer with regular touring.
As well as being a keen photographer that led to several books, he was also a successful businessman, owning a chain of restaurants called Kenny Rogers Roasters.
He had a brief chart comeback in 2000, with the hit Buy Me A Rose, which event earned him his first No 1 country song in 13 years.
Rogers' family is planning a private service "out of concern for the national COVID-19 emergency". A public memorial will be held at a later date.


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: 'Post-apocalyptic future' as Los Angeles goes quiet

On many days in Los Angeles you can turn a corner and stumble upon a scene from a post-apocalyptic future .
But suddenly the waste land is n't the stuff of the movies anymore .
The deserted streets and shuttered businesses are signs of very real life .
The people of America 's second-biggest city , and the country 's most populous state , have taken notice of the order to stay at home to help stop the spread of coronavirus .
A few are out jogging , some walk their dogs , essential services continue - things all permitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bustling neighbourhoods are like ghost towns .
And it is heartening that the message is being taken seriously .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker As he opened up his food truck for the day 's business in Santa Monica , Hassam Jahrny said the lockdown was the only answer if the US was to avoid the fate of Italy and Iran .
No one expressed anything but support for the order .
The governor of California , Gavin Newsom , has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order , wary of raising expectations , but he says he can not see it lasting for `` many , many months '' .
It means a period of adjustment for society and its economy and anxiety and uncertainty for millions .
Hours after California 's stay-at-home order took effect , New York state , Illinois and Connecticut announced similar measures , a reality check sweeping across the nation .
The surge in cases in recent days certainly reflects the rush of results from tests that had been waiting to be processed but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That jolt is why scenes that were unimaginable a week ago are now the norm .
At rush hour on Friday , the Interstate 405 , the notorious clogged artery that runs north-south through Los Angeles was a free-flowing breeze of a drive .
Mr Newsom spelled out in some detail the data guiding his decision , the number of hospital beds that might be needed and where the shortfall could be found .
He made no attempt to sugar coat the reality .
In return for his honesty and straight talking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up .
The signs are that they are doing just that and America holding its breath to see when and if it will make a difference .

On many days in Los Angeles you can turn a corner and stumble upon a scene from a post-apocalyptic future.
But suddenly the waste land isn't the stuff of the movies anymore.
The deserted streets and shuttered businesses are signs of very real life.
The people of America's second-biggest city, and the country's most populous state, have taken notice of the order to stay at home to help stop the spread of coronavirus.
A few are out jogging, some walk their dogs, essential services continue - things all permitted under the order - but the usually bustling neighbourhoods are like ghost towns.
And it is heartening that the message is being taken seriously.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
As he opened up his food truck for the day's business in Santa Monica, Hassam Jahrny said the lockdown was the only answer if the US was to avoid the fate of Italy and Iran.
No one expressed anything but support for the order.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:13 Coronavirus leaves Miami Beach deserted
The governor of California, Gavin Newsom, has refused to put a time-frame on the order, wary of raising expectations, but he says he cannot see it lasting for "many, many months".
It means a period of adjustment for society and its economy and anxiety and uncertainty for millions.
Hours after California's stay-at-home order took effect, New York state, Illinois and Connecticut announced similar measures, a reality check sweeping across the nation.
The surge in cases in recent days certainly reflects the rush of results from tests that had been waiting to be processed but Americans are braced for more dramatic numbers.
That jolt is why scenes that were unimaginable a week ago are now the norm. At rush hour on Friday, the Interstate 405, the notorious clogged artery that runs north-south through Los Angeles was a free-flowing breeze of a drive.
Image: Los Angeles ordered the closure of all non-essential services and entertainment venues
Mr Newsom spelled out in some detail the data guiding his decision, the number of hospital beds that might be needed and where the shortfall could be found. He made no attempt to sugar coat the reality.
In return for his honesty and straight talking, he has demanded the public step up.
The signs are that they are doing just that and America holding its breath to see when and if it will make a difference.