news--2020-06-11--Hong Kong: Dominic Raab says China can still 'step back from brink' to allow autonomy

Britain 's foreign secretary has said China can still `` step back from the brink '' to allow Hong Kong its own autonomy as he called for an independent inquiry into the city 's protests .
Dominic Raab expressed his `` deep concern '' for the ongoing unrest and China 's attempt to enforce its national security law on the former British colony .
In the Foreign Office 's latest six-month report to parliament on Hong Kong , covering 1 July to 31 December last year , Mr Raab also called the detention and torture of British Consulate worker Simon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and disgraceful '' .
Mr Raab wrote : `` The solution to this unrest and its underlying causes must come from Hong Kong , and can not be imposed from mainland China .
`` Britain says the way through the current situation in Hong Kong is clear : all sides must invest in dialogue and reconciliation , underpinned by a robust , independent inquiry .
`` It is incumbent on the Hong Kong government to acknowledge not just the economic causes of the unrest , but also its people 's concerns about their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administrative region 's autonomy was guaranteed for 50 years from the handover in 1997 under the `` one country , two systems '' agreement signed in 1984 by then Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher .
The UK , along with the US , Australia and Canada , has criticised China for the new national security law , saying it would breach the Sino-British agreement and threaten its freedoms .
Last week , Mr Raab told Sky News the UK was prepared to sacrifice a free trade deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kong .
The city was rocked by months of pro-democracy protests last year over an unsuccessful attempt to introduce an extradition law which could mean sending suspects to China .
Following a lull during the coronavirus epidemic , protests have started up again after China suddenly introduced a resolution to enforce a national security law which would make secession , subversion `` terrorism '' or any foreign interference in Hong Kong illegal .
`` There is still time for China to re-consider , to step back from the brink and respect Hong Kong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obligations , '' Mr Raab wrote in a foreword to the report , which he said addressed subsequent events after the period the report covered .
Last week , the Hong Kong government voted to make mocking China 's national anthem a crime - on the same day as thousands disobeyed police to hold the annual vigil for those who were killed in Tiananmen Square in 1980 .
Boris Johnson has pledged to give Hong Kong 's 350,000 British National Overseas passport holders - and the 2.5 million who are eligible - UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is given the green light .
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Britain's foreign secretary has said China can still "step back from the brink" to allow Hong Kong its own autonomy as he called for an independent inquiry into the city's protests.
Dominic Raab expressed his "deep concern" for the ongoing unrest and China's attempt to enforce its national security law on the former British colony.
In the Foreign Office's latest six-month report to parliament on Hong Kong, covering 1 July to 31 December last year, Mr Raab also called the detention and torture of British Consulate worker Simon Cheng in China last year "brutal and disgraceful".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:43 UK 'will stand up' for Hong Kong's people
Mr Raab wrote: "The solution to this unrest and its underlying causes must come from Hong Kong, and cannot be imposed from mainland China.
"Britain says the way through the current situation in Hong Kong is clear: all sides must invest in dialogue and reconciliation, underpinned by a robust, independent inquiry.
"It is incumbent on the Hong Kong government to acknowledge not just the economic causes of the unrest, but also its people's concerns about their freedoms and values."
The special administrative region's autonomy was guaranteed for 50 years from the handover in 1997 under the "one country, two systems" agreement signed in 1984 by then Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
The UK, along with the US, Australia and Canada, has criticised China for the new national security law, saying it would breach the Sino-British agreement and threaten its freedoms.
Last week, Mr Raab told Sky News the UK was prepared to sacrifice a free trade deal with China to protect the people of Hong Kong.
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The city was rocked by months of pro-democracy protests last year over an unsuccessful attempt to introduce an extradition law which could mean sending suspects to China.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 HK pro-democracy activists: 'We will never surrender'
Following a lull during the coronavirus epidemic, protests have started up again after China suddenly introduced a resolution to enforce a national security law which would make secession, subversion "terrorism" or any foreign interference in Hong Kong illegal.
"There is still time for China to re-consider, to step back from the brink and respect Hong Kong's autonomy and respect its own international obligations," Mr Raab wrote in a foreword to the report, which he said addressed subsequent events after the period the report covered.
Image: Thousands of Hong Kongers socially distanced at a banned Tiananmen vigil in Victoria Park, Hong Kong on 4 June
Image: China's President Xi Jinping (C) applauds after the National People's Congress approves a proposal to draft a Hong Kong security law
Last week, the Hong Kong government voted to make mocking China's national anthem a crime - on the same day as thousands disobeyed police to hold the annual vigil for those who were killed in Tiananmen Square in 1980.
Boris Johnson has pledged to give Hong Kong's 350,000 British National Overseas passport holders - and the 2.5 million who are eligible - UK visa rights if the national security law is given the green light.
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news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: UK-wide infections fall by up to 4% a day - but could be rising in London

Coronavirus infections are falling across the UK by between 2 % and 4 % a day , according to new government figures .
The figures , which show how quickly the number of COVID-19 infections are changing day-by-day , have been published for the first time .
It comes after the government announced it has dropped the COVID-19 alert level for the UK from four to three , suggesting transmission of the virus is no longer high or spreading at an exponential rate .
The UK 's coronavirus reproduction rate - known as the R number - remains unchanged at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's target of keeping it below 1.0 .
There is a small possibility the virus could be growing in London , according to the new regional growth rates .
The growth rate in the capital is listed as being between -5 % and +1 % , a range which comes from uncertainty around the figures and the number of different scientific models that are used to create it .
However , members of the government 's Scientific Advisory Group ( SAGE ) said it is unlikely to be dangerous , with the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the range , especially as the R number in the capital is 0.7 to 1 .
The figure of +1 % may also have come because the result of one research group 's work was rounded up in order to provide a conservative estimate of growth .
All other regional growth rates are between -0.6 % and 0 % .
If the growth rate is greater than zero , and therefore positive , then the disease will grow , and if the growth rate is less than zero , then the disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ published on Friday , the government had only been giving details of the R value of the disease - the average number of people an infected person is likely to pass it on to .
If the R value is one , each infected person will on average pass COVID-19 on to one other .
If it is above one , it means the number of coronavirus cases will increase exponentially .
No English region has an R value above 1.0 , according to the latest government figures .
In the southwest of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0.8 and 1.1 last week - but it is now between 0.6 and 0.9. : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The UK 's R value is used to guide ministers on whether further lockdown lifting can take place .
Pubs and restaurants - as well as hairdressers and beauty parlours - are hoping to be given the green light to reopen on 4 July .
And on Friday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was `` sure '' all children can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He also hinted social distancing rules in classrooms could be relaxed to help more pupils return faster , as he told people to `` watch this space '' .
The government announced on Friday that a further 173 people who tested positive for COVID-19 had died in the UK .
It brings the country 's total number of coronavirus deaths in hospitals , care homes and the wider community to 42,461 , The number of people who have been infected with coronavirus in the UK is now 301,815 after 1,346 more cases @ @ @ @ @

Coronavirus infections are falling across the UK by between 2% and 4% a day, according to new government figures.
The figures, which show how quickly the number of COVID-19 infections are changing day-by-day, have been published for the first time.
It comes after the government announced it has dropped the COVID-19 alert level for the UK from four to three, suggesting transmission of the virus is no longer high or spreading at an exponential rate.
The UK's coronavirus reproduction rate - known as the R number - remains unchanged at 0.7 to 0.9, meeting the government's target of keeping it below 1.0.
There is a small possibility the virus could be growing in London, according to the new regional growth rates.
The growth rate in the capital is listed as being between -5% and +1%, a range which comes from uncertainty around the figures and the number of different scientific models that are used to create it.
However, members of the government's Scientific Advisory Group (SAGE) said it is unlikely to be dangerous, with the most likely real value falling in the middle of the range, especially as the R number in the capital is 0.7 to 1.
The figure of +1% may also have come because the result of one research group's work was rounded up in order to provide a conservative estimate of growth.
All other regional growth rates are between -0.6% and 0%.
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If the growth rate is greater than zero, and therefore positive, then the disease will grow, and if the growth rate is less than zero, then the disease will shrink.
Until the figures were published on Friday, the government had only been giving details of the R value of the disease - the average number of people an infected person is likely to pass it on to.
If the R value is one, each infected person will on average pass COVID-19 on to one other.
If it is above one, it means the number of coronavirus cases will increase exponentially.
No English region has an R value above 1.0, according to the latest government figures.
In the southwest of England, the R number was between 0.8 and 1.1 last week - but it is now between 0.6 and 0.9.
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The UK's R value is used to guide ministers on whether further lockdown lifting can take place.
Pubs and restaurants - as well as hairdressers and beauty parlours - are hoping to be given the green light to reopen on 4 July.
And on Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was "sure" all children can be back in school full-time from September.
He also hinted social distancing rules in classrooms could be relaxed to help more pupils return faster, as he told people to "watch this space".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:27 PM wants September full-time school return
The government announced on Friday that a further 173 people who tested positive for COVID-19 had died in the UK.
It brings the country's total number of coronavirus deaths in hospitals, care homes and the wider community to 42,461,
The number of people who have been infected with coronavirus in the UK is now 301,815 after 1,346 more cases were confirmed on Friday.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Factory workers in refrigerated environments at 'greater risk of getting COVID'

People working in refrigerated environments in food factories could be at a higher risk of contracting coronavirus , a microbiologist has told Sky News .
Outbreaks of COVID-19 across the UK in recent weeks have forced the closure of several food production sites , including confirmed cases at a number of factories in the last few days .
The Kober meat factory in Cleckheaton , West Yorkshire , suspended work after a coronavirus outbreak , while 58 workers at a chicken processing site on Anglesey , North Wales , have also tested positive .
And another outbreak saw 38 infections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dr Simon Clarke , a microbiologist at the University of Reading , told Sky News : `` There are two possible explanations .
`` The first one is that people are n't observing proper distancing and working together .
`` But then if that were the case , why would you see it only in food processing plants and not other factories ?
`` I think a more likely explanation may well be the cold - these places tend to be refrigerated .
If these places are refrigerated , do you get an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the winter with the cold ?
`` The truth is , we do n't really know .
`` But my suspicion is it 's got something to do with the cold , refrigerated environment in food factories . ''
Asda , who operate the site at Cleckheaton , confirmed it has voluntarily closed the facility while every member of staff there is tested for coronavirus .
Andy Hair , who lives less than half a mile from the factory , told Sky News that he has regularly seen large groups of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the shifts during lockdown , when workers were `` all just walking down together , just on mass '' .
Mr Hair said there are often `` groups of 10 to 12 people at a time and no efforts at social distancing '' .
`` It seems that all the people working there will be living locally , travelling locally , going into Cleckheaton to the bus station , getting on public transport and it seems crazy for nobody to be told this is happening , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as soon as it became aware of the outbreak , but doctors and local officials were left furious after only finding out about it during the government 's daily coronavirus briefing .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Thursday 's press conference in Downing Street that there had been a localised outbreak in the Kirklees area of West Yorkshire .
Local GP Dr Jools Thomas said she was `` slack-jawed '' at finding out about the situation from the TV .
Tracey Brabin , Labour MP for Batley and Spen , said it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announce a virus outbreak during the daily briefing , adding it was `` thoughtless , sloppy and unhelpful '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier this week , the 2 Sisters factory in Llangefni , Anglesey , which supplies several supermarkets across the UK , halted production until 2 July and told all 560 employees to self-isolate after 58 people there tested positive .
Rowan Foods 's factory in Wrexham , which works with high street bakery chain Greggs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system in place after 38 positive cases out of a total 1,500 workers .
A spokesman for Oscar Mayer , which runs the plant , said nobody was seriously ill or admitted to hospital .

People working in refrigerated environments in food factories could be at a higher risk of contracting coronavirus, a microbiologist has told Sky News.
Outbreaks of COVID-19 across the UK in recent weeks have forced the closure of several food production sites, including confirmed cases at a number of factories in the last few days.
The Kober meat factory in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, suspended work after a coronavirus outbreak, while 58 workers at a chicken processing site on Anglesey, North Wales, have also tested positive.
And another outbreak saw 38 infections at a food factory in Wrexham.
Image: Locals claim workers at the Kober meat factory in Cleckheaton have not been social distancing. Pic: Richard Smith
Dr Simon Clarke, a microbiologist at the University of Reading, told Sky News: "There are two possible explanations.
"The first one is that people aren't observing proper distancing and working together.
"But then if that were the case, why would you see it only in food processing plants and not other factories?
"I think a more likely explanation may well be the cold - these places tend to be refrigerated. If these places are refrigerated, do you get an increased susceptibility to infection like you get during the winter with the cold?
"The truth is, we don't really know.
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"But my suspicion is it's got something to do with the cold, refrigerated environment in food factories."
Image: Dr Simon Clarke is a microbiologist at the University of Reading
Asda, who operate the site at Cleckheaton, confirmed it has voluntarily closed the facility while every member of staff there is tested for coronavirus.
Andy Hair, who lives less than half a mile from the factory, told Sky News that he has regularly seen large groups of people leaving the site together.
He described the end of the shifts during lockdown, when workers were "all just walking down together, just on mass".
Mr Hair said there are often "groups of 10 to 12 people at a time and no efforts at social distancing".
"It seems that all the people working there will be living locally, travelling locally, going into Cleckheaton to the bus station, getting on public transport and it seems crazy for nobody to be told this is happening," he said.
Asda said it "responded swiftly" as soon as it became aware of the outbreak, but doctors and local officials were left furious after only finding out about it during the government's daily coronavirus briefing.
Image: Owner Asda said it 'responded swiftly' as soon as it became aware of the West Yorkshire outbreak
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Thursday's press conference in Downing Street that there had been a localised outbreak in the Kirklees area of West Yorkshire.
Local GP Dr Jools Thomas said she was "slack-jawed" at finding out about the situation from the TV.
Tracey Brabin, Labour MP for Batley and Spen, said it was "astounding" that Mr Hancock would announce a virus outbreak during the daily briefing, adding it was "thoughtless, sloppy and unhelpful".
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Earlier this week, the 2 Sisters factory in Llangefni, Anglesey, which supplies several supermarkets across the UK, halted production until 2 July and told all 560 employees to self-isolate after 58 people there tested positive.
Rowan Foods's factory in Wrexham, which works with high street bakery chain Greggs and Subway, has a track and trace system in place after 38 positive cases out of a total 1,500 workers.
A spokesman for Oscar Mayer, which runs the plant, said nobody was seriously ill or admitted to hospital.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Apple temporarily closing 11 US stores after rise in cases

Apple is closing 11 stores in four US states due to a rise in coronavirus cases , just weeks after reopening them .
Six branches are temporarily shutting again in Arizona due to an increase in COVID-19 infections .
Two are closing in both Florida and North Carolina , while the other one is in South Carolina .
The technology giant said : `` We take this step with an abundance of caution as we closely monitor the situation and we look forward to having our teams and customers back as soon as possible . ''
Apple began reopening more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month after shutting down all of its locations in March .
Some states have pushed ahead with emerging from full or partial shutdown despite a surge in new infections , including in Florida , Texas , Oklahoma and California .
The US has the highest number of cases and deaths in the world , with 2.2 million infections and almost 119,000 fatalities , according to Johns Hopkins University .
Daniel Ives from financial investment firm Wedbush Securities said the move was `` a worrisome trend that speaks to the volatility and fluidity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big technology firms , Apple has been doing far better than most companies as the US economy is ravaged by the effects of the coronavirus .
Its stock price hit a record high of $ 356.56 ( £288.46 ) in Friday 's early trading before news of the store closures rattled investors .
The shares were down by about 1.5 % in afternoon trading .

Apple is closing 11 stores in four US states due to a rise in coronavirus cases, just weeks after reopening them.
Six branches are temporarily shutting again in Arizona due to an increase in COVID-19 infections.
Two are closing in both Florida and North Carolina, while the other one is in South Carolina.
The technology giant said: "We take this step with an abundance of caution as we closely monitor the situation and we look forward to having our teams and customers back as soon as possible."
Apple began reopening more than 30 stores across the US last month after shutting down all of its locations in March.
Some states have pushed ahead with emerging from full or partial shutdown despite a surge in new infections, including in Florida, Texas, Oklahoma and California.
The US has the highest number of cases and deaths in the world, with 2.2 million infections and almost 119,000 fatalities, according to Johns Hopkins University.
Daniel Ives from financial investment firm Wedbush Securities said the move was "a worrisome trend that speaks to the volatility and fluidity of this COVID environment".
Like many big technology firms, Apple has been doing far better than most companies as the US economy is ravaged by the effects of the coronavirus.
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Its stock price hit a record high of $356.56 (£288.46) in Friday's early trading before news of the store closures rattled investors.
The shares were down by about 1.5% in afternoon trading.


news--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: What is the UK's 'COVID alert level' and what does it mean?

As lockdown measures are gradually eased across the UK , the `` COVID alert level '' is being lowered .
The system - unveiled by the prime minister earlier in May - involves a scale of one to five , which he said would reflect the degree of threat to the country from coronavirus .
Mr Johnson said it is determined by the reproduction rate of COVID-19 known as the `` R number '' - which is the average number of people each infected person transmits the virus to - and number of cases .
On 19 June , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been reduced from four to three - in what he called a `` big moment '' for the UK .
It followed a recommendation by the Joint Biosecurity Centre and was endorsed by the chief medical officers of each of the four nations .
But what are each of the alert levels supposed to mean - and what action will taken as a result ?
Level 5 - The highest on the scale , this indicates there is a `` material risk '' of the NHS being overwhelmed .
Reaching this level would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imposed to date in the UK .
Level 4 - The level at which the UK has been since the system was announced .
This means the COVID-19 epidemic `` is in general circulation '' and the `` transmission is high or rising exponentially '' .
Social-distancing regulations in force since March will remain unchanged as long as this is considered to be the case .
Level 3 - While this level also suggests the epidemic is `` in general circulation '' , it omits the statement `` transmission is high or rising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level to this point , official guidelines suggest the government will begin the `` gradual relaxing of restrictions and social-distancing measures '' .
Level 2 - To shift to this level , the government guidance says the virus would be present in the UK , but that the number of cases and transmission is low .
It says this would then allow `` no or minimal social-distancing measures '' , but with enhanced `` testing , tracing , monitoring and screening '' .
Level 1 - The level which the government eventually hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 is not known to be present in the UK '' .
The guidance suggests the only action required at this stage would be `` routine international monitoring '' .
Quarantine and social-distancing measures will be relaxed or tightened depending on where the UK is on the scale .
It uses a colour-coded `` traffic light '' system similar to those employed by a series of governments to monitor specific threats facing the country , such as terrorism .
The announcement of the system came not long after Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considering a traffic light strategy to come out of lockdown , telling Sky 's Sophy Ridge on Sunday : `` No , it is not . ''

The UK introduced a COVID alert level system in May 2020 to reflect the degree of threat to the country from the virus.
The system involves a scale of one to five, with five being the highest threat, and determines how prevalent COVID is and how much pressure the NHS is under.
August 2022 marks the first time the UK has fallen as low as level two since the system was introduced.
The UK Health Security Agency is constantly looking at the COVID threat level and recommends whether it should be raised or lowered.
It is then endorsed by the chief medical officers of all four nations before it can be changed.
Image: The COVID alert system being used by the government
They also look at the number of cases and the R number - the average number of people each infected person passes the virus on to.
The system was designed to mirror the UK's independent terror alert system.
Here is what each alert level means:
Level 5 - The highest on the scale, this indicates there is a "material risk" of the NHS being overwhelmed.
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Level 4 - This means the COVID-19 epidemic "is in general circulation" and that "transmission is high", with direct pressure on health services "widespread and substantial or rising".
Level 3 - While this level also suggests the epidemic is "in general circulation", it omits the statement "transmission is high or rising exponentially".
Level 2 - COVID is in general circulation, but healthcare pressures as a result of the virus are low and transmission is declining or stable.
Level 1 - The virus remains in the UK, but the number of cases and transmission is low.
The scale used to include references to required levels of social distancing, but these have been removed.
It's also worth noting that the criteria for each level has changed slightly - for example, level one used to propose that COVID would no longer be present in the UK.
Image: A road sign urged people to stay alert in Bridport, Dorset in May - 'except Dominic Cummings'
This is how the levels have changed since they were introduced in May 2020:
May 2020 - Level 4
19 June 2020 - Level 3
21 September 2020 - Level 4
4 January 2021 - Level 5
25 February 2021 - Level 4
10 May 2021 - Level 3
12 December 2021 - Level 4
20 May 2022 - Level 3
31 August 2022 - Level 2


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Chinese officials say latest outbreak in Beijing 'is a European strain'

The recent outbreak of coronavirus in Beijing has been reported to be a European strain , according to Chinese officials who have released information about its genome sequence .
Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) official Zhang Yong revealed the early research data in an article published by the country 's Central Commission for Discipline Inspection .
`` According to preliminary genomic and epidemiological study results , the virus is from Europe , but is different from the virus currently spreading in Europe , '' he said .
`` It 's older than the virus currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been under pressure to make data on the recent outbreak public sooner rather than later , following criticism over how it handled the initial emergence of COVID-19 in the central city of Wuhan late last year .
The country said it has also submitted its latest results to the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) .
The US government has blamed the Chinese regime for not handling the original coronavirus outbreak properly and moving too slowly to contain the pandemic .
China has rejected that accusation , saying it wasted no time in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the genome sequence of the first outbreak .
Following the latest Beijing outbreak , the WHO said on Sunday it had been informed by the Chinese of ongoing investigations into the source of the cluster and the extent of the infections .
The global health body requested the genetic sequences to be released as soon as possible and the genome sequencing was published late on Thursday It has also been shared with the Global Influenza Data Initiative ( GISAID ) , said the CDC .
Wu Zunyou , the CDC 's chief epidemiology @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this week that the Beijing strain was similar to Europe 's , although not necessarily directly transmitted from European countries .
The strains found in the US and Russia were mostly from Europe , he added .
Mr Wu did not elaborate on those comments , made before the genome data release .
Virus genome sequencing is a vital and rapidly-developing tool in the diagnosis of the disease COVID-19 and in understanding the spread and control of the virus .
Details published on China 's National Microbiology Data Center website revealed that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - two human and one environmental , which were collected on 11 June .
That was the same day the Chinese capital reported its first new local COVID-19 infection in months .
In the eight days since , Beijing has reported a total of 183 cases - linked to the sprawling wholesale food centre of Xinfadi in the city 's southwest , which has since been shut .
On the origins of the strain that hit Beijing , Mr Wu said it did not originate in the capital , saying `` some people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have brought it into the market .
In a state TV interview aired on Friday , he said : `` It must be some people or goods outside of the city that carried it into the ( Xinfadi ) market .
It 's unclear who , or what kind of goods , had brought the virus into Beijing . ''
New travel restrictions have been enforced in the Chinese capital since the latest outbreak emerged , and imports of salmon have also been stopped .
The first cluster of coronavirus infections was traced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in December .
It has since infected almost 8.5 million people globally .

The recent outbreak of coronavirus in Beijing has been reported to be a European strain, according to Chinese officials who have released information about its genome sequence.
Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) official Zhang Yong revealed the early research data in an article published by the country's Central Commission for Discipline Inspection.
"According to preliminary genomic and epidemiological study results, the virus is from Europe, but is different from the virus currently spreading in Europe," he said.
"It's older than the virus currently spreading in Europe."
Image: People in lockdown wait for food to be delivered in Beijing
China has been under pressure to make data on the recent outbreak public sooner rather than later, following criticism over how it handled the initial emergence of COVID-19 in the central city of Wuhan late last year.
The country said it has also submitted its latest results to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The US government has blamed the Chinese regime for not handling the original coronavirus outbreak properly and moving too slowly to contain the pandemic.
China has rejected that accusation, saying it wasted no time in releasing information about the spread, including the genome sequence of the first outbreak.
Following the latest Beijing outbreak, the WHO said on Sunday it had been informed by the Chinese of ongoing investigations into the source of the cluster and the extent of the infections.
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The global health body requested the genetic sequences to be released as soon as possible and the genome sequencing was published late on Thursday
It has also been shared with the Global Influenza Data Initiative (GISAID), said the CDC.
Image: The Xinfadi wholesale market has been closed following the spike in infections
Wu Zunyou, the CDC's chief epidemiology expert, had told state media earlier this week that the Beijing strain was similar to Europe's, although not necessarily directly transmitted from European countries.
The strains found in the US and Russia were mostly from Europe, he added.
Mr Wu did not elaborate on those comments, made before the genome data release.
Virus genome sequencing is a vital and rapidly-developing tool in the diagnosis of the disease COVID-19 and in understanding the spread and control of the virus.
Details published on China's National Microbiology Data Center website revealed that the genome data was based on three samples - two human and one environmental, which were collected on 11 June.
That was the same day the Chinese capital reported its first new local COVID-19 infection in months.
In the eight days since, Beijing has reported a total of 183 cases - linked to the sprawling wholesale food centre of Xinfadi in the city's southwest, which has since been shut.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:14 A spike in cases in the city has led to the reintroduction of lockdown measures.
On the origins of the strain that hit Beijing, Mr Wu said it did not originate in the capital, saying "some people or goods outside the city" must have brought it into the market.
In a state TV interview aired on Friday, he said: "It must be some people or goods outside of the city that carried it into the (Xinfadi) market. It's unclear who, or what kind of goods, had brought the virus into Beijing."
New travel restrictions have been enforced in the Chinese capital since the latest outbreak emerged, and imports of salmon have also been stopped.
The first cluster of coronavirus infections was traced to the Hunan seafood market in Wuhan in December.
It has since infected almost 8.5 million people globally.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Sewage samples show COVID-19 was in Italy in December, scientists claim

COVID-19 could have been present in Italy as early as December , scientists have claimed , after they found traces of the virus in sewage water collected from Milan and Turin .
The Italian National Institute of Health looked at 40 sewage samples collected from wastewater treatment plants in northern Italy between October 2019 and February 2020 .
An analysis discovered samples taken in Milan and Turin on 18 December showed the presence of COVID-19 - more than two weeks before China reported its first cases .
`` This research may help us understand the beginning of virus circulation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who co-led the research .
A spokeswoman for the institute said the full data and study would be published next week and announced plans to monitor wastewater in tourist resorts from July .
Researchers across the world have found signs that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be detected in sewage , and many countries are beginning to sample wastewater to track the disease .
And scientists said the detection of traces of the virus before the end of 2019 was consistent with evidence in other countries that coronavirus may have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on 31 December .
A French study found that a man was infected with COVID-19 as early as 27 December - nearly a month before the country confirmed its first cases .

COVID-19 could have been present in Italy as early as December, scientists have claimed, after they found traces of the virus in sewage water collected from Milan and Turin.
The Italian National Institute of Health looked at 40 sewage samples collected from wastewater treatment plants in northern Italy between October 2019 and February 2020.
An analysis discovered samples taken in Milan and Turin on 18 December showed the presence of COVID-19 - more than two weeks before China reported its first cases.
"This research may help us understand the beginning of virus circulation in Italy," said Giuseppina La Rosa, who co-led the research.
A spokeswoman for the institute said the full data and study would be published next week and announced plans to monitor wastewater in tourist resorts from July.
Researchers across the world have found signs that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be detected in sewage, and many countries are beginning to sample wastewater to track the disease.
And scientists said the detection of traces of the virus before the end of 2019 was consistent with evidence in other countries that coronavirus may have been circulating before China reported the first cases on 31 December.
A French study found that a man was infected with COVID-19 as early as 27 December - nearly a month before the country confirmed its first cases.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Wales sets date for non-essential shops to reopen - and reveals target for hairdressers

All non-essential shops in Wales will be able to reopen their doors from Monday , as the country moves into the `` amber zone '' of its lockdown .
First Minister Mark Drakeford confirmed the move on Friday , but warned social distancing must still be observed by customers and retail staff .
It comes as the UK-wide coronavirus alert level is moved down to three .
Mr Drakeford said his devolved administration would be accelerating the process of lifting its coronavirus restrictions over the course of the next three weeks , after a steady fall in infections and deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market will get going again - with property viewings able to take place , and sales that were postponed as a result of the lockdown allowed to be completed .
People will also have the green light to take part in outdoor sporting activity , provided social distancing can be maintained and it does not involve contact or team sports .
Additionally , places of worship will be able to open their doors for private prayer sessions , and a phased opening of childcare providers will begin so that people can start to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some school pupils will be able to return to classrooms in Wales in order to catch up with work and prepare for the new year in September .
Mr Drakeford also announced that from 6 July , the rule requiring people to stay local to their homes will be lifted , provided the science continues to support the move at the time .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But for now , people in Wales should continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drakeford warning : `` Coronavirus is not over . ''
The only exception to the requirement to stay local is on compassionate grounds , he added .
Looking further ahead , Mr Drakeford provided some hope for the tourism sector and hairdressers .
He advised the former to plan to welcome people from 6 July , and suggested hairdressers should use the next three weeks to prepare for services to resume by appointment only - ahead of a potential return on 13 July .
The first minister said Wales was able to lift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bringing the fire of coronavirus under control '' - but warned that `` that fire is not out '' .
The changes to the Welsh lockdown will bring the country closer into line with England , which has been easing its restrictions at a faster rate than the other home nations .
Mr Drakeford 's press conference in Cardiff came as Public Health Wales confirmed a further four people had died after testing positive for COVID-19 , taking the total in the country to 1,475 .
The total number of cases there increased @ @ @ @ @

All non-essential shops in Wales will be able to reopen their doors from Monday, as the country moves into the "amber zone" of its lockdown.
First Minister Mark Drakeford confirmed the move on Friday, but warned social distancing must still be observed by customers and retail staff.
It comes as the UK-wide coronavirus alert level is moved down to three.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:07 Coronavirus alert level lowered in UK to level 3
Mr Drakeford said his devolved administration would be accelerating the process of lifting its coronavirus restrictions over the course of the next three weeks, after a steady fall in infections and deaths.
Also from Monday, the housing market will get going again - with property viewings able to take place, and sales that were postponed as a result of the lockdown allowed to be completed.
People will also have the green light to take part in outdoor sporting activity, provided social distancing can be maintained and it does not involve contact or team sports.
Additionally, places of worship will be able to open their doors for private prayer sessions, and a phased opening of childcare providers will begin so that people can start to return to work.
From 29 June, some school pupils will be able to return to classrooms in Wales in order to catch up with work and prepare for the new year in September.
Mr Drakeford also announced that from 6 July, the rule requiring people to stay local to their homes will be lifted, provided the science continues to support the move at the time.
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But for now, people in Wales should continue to "stay local", with Mr Drakeford warning: "Coronavirus is not over."
The only exception to the requirement to stay local is on compassionate grounds, he added.
Looking further ahead, Mr Drakeford provided some hope for the tourism sector and hairdressers.
He advised the former to plan to welcome people from 6 July, and suggested hairdressers should use the next three weeks to prepare for services to resume by appointment only - ahead of a potential return on 13 July.
Image: Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford is easing the lockdown
The first minister said Wales was able to lift restrictions because it had "succeeded in bringing the fire of coronavirus under control" - but warned that "that fire is not out".
The changes to the Welsh lockdown will bring the country closer into line with England, which has been easing its restrictions at a faster rate than the other home nations.
Mr Drakeford's press conference in Cardiff came as Public Health Wales confirmed a further four people had died after testing positive for COVID-19, taking the total in the country to 1,475.
The total number of cases there increased by 31 to 15,001.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Man banned from flying with airline for refusing to wear a face mask

A US airline has banned a man who refused to wear a face mask on one of its flights .
Conservative activist Brandon Straka ignored requests by crew members to wear a mask on an American Airlines flight from New York 's LaGuardia Airport on Wednesday .
Some 122 passengers were waiting for the flight to leave for Dallas Fort Worth when Mr Straka was ordered off the plane and put on a later flight .
In a statement supplied to Sky News , American Airlines said the incident had been `` thoroughly reviewed '' and that , as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not be permitted to fly American , as he failed to comply with our stated policy and crew member instructions '' .
`` We are committed to protecting the safety and well-being of our customers and team members , which is why we strengthened enforcement of our policy for required face coverings on board .
`` We expect customers who choose to fly with us to comply with these policies , and if necessary , we will deny future travel for customers who refuse to do so .
`` Restricting travel is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it will only occur after a comprehensive review of the facts of an incident .
Mr Straka will be permitted to fly with us once face coverings are no longer required for customers . ''
Mr Straka had recorded an exchange with a flight attendant on the plane and then posted another video on Twitter after he was sent back to the departure gate .
And he wrote : `` I was just removed from my flight for not wearing a mask .
1st time this has happened .
Not a federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me telling me it 's THE LAW .
So much for 'please respect those who can not wear a mask ' .
When I pointed out this was n't a law I was removed . ''
He claimed he was asked by a flight attendant if he had a condition that prevents him from wearing a mask , to which he replied : `` Sanity . ''
The incident is among the first of its type since US airlines said this week that they would step up the enforcement of their rules regarding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forcing passengers to wear a mask on flights - despite requests from airlines and unions representing aviation workers - but it is airline policy .
The requirements for passengers to wear face masks is among a number of rules brought in by many airlines in an effort to limit the spread of coronavirus , which causes COVID-19 .
Most of the airlines make exceptions for young children , for passengers while they are eating or drinking , and for those with some medical conditions .
More than 118,000 people have died after contracting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the world .
Globally , there have been at least 453,268 fatalities , according to Johns Hopkins University .

A US airline has banned a man who refused to wear a face mask on one of its flights.
Conservative activist Brandon Straka ignored requests by crew members to wear a mask on an American Airlines flight from New York's LaGuardia Airport on Wednesday.
Some 122 passengers were waiting for the flight to leave for Dallas Fort Worth when Mr Straka was ordered off the plane and put on a later flight.
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
In a statement supplied to Sky News, American Airlines said the incident had been "thoroughly reviewed" and that, as a result of this, Mr Straka "will not be permitted to fly American, as he failed to comply with our stated policy and crew member instructions".
"We are committed to protecting the safety and well-being of our customers and team members, which is why we strengthened enforcement of our policy for required face coverings on board.
"We expect customers who choose to fly with us to comply with these policies, and if necessary, we will deny future travel for customers who refuse to do so.
"Restricting travel is a step we take very seriously, and it will only occur after a comprehensive review of the facts of an incident. Mr Straka will be permitted to fly with us once face coverings are no longer required for customers."
Mr Straka had recorded an exchange with a flight attendant on the plane and then posted another video on Twitter after he was sent back to the departure gate.
And he wrote: "I was just removed from my flight for not wearing a mask. 1st time this has happened. Not a federal law. @AmericanAir staff standing over me telling me it's THE LAW. So much for 'please respect those who can not wear a mask'. When I pointed out this wasn't a law I was removed."
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He claimed he was asked by a flight attendant if he had a condition that prevents him from wearing a mask, to which he replied: "Sanity."
The incident is among the first of its type since US airlines said this week that they would step up the enforcement of their rules regarding masks.
There is no US law forcing passengers to wear a mask on flights - despite requests from airlines and unions representing aviation workers - but it is airline policy.
The requirements for passengers to wear face masks is among a number of rules brought in by many airlines in an effort to limit the spread of coronavirus, which causes COVID-19.
Most of the airlines make exceptions for young children, for passengers while they are eating or drinking, and for those with some medical conditions.
More than 118,000 people have died after contracting coronavirus in the US - the highest in the world.
Globally, there have been at least 453,268 fatalities, according to Johns Hopkins University.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Avatar 2 leads the way and UK set to welcome Jurassic World as film sets open up again

The film industry is taking its first tentative steps towards starting production again as the restrictions on travel and social distancing are lifted in some countries .
Film sets around the world were shut down when the coronavirus outbreak worsened in March .
Cinemas also had to close , meaning some major releases that were already finished - including Daniel Craig 's final outing as James Bond - are still waiting to see the light of day .
But in New Zealand , work has begun once more on James Cameron 's Avatar 2 , which is believed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into production .
The Oscar-winning director and dozens of his crew members arrived in the country earlier this month and have been back working on the sequel to the 2009 hit at Stone Street Studios in Wellington .
Earlier this week , the film 's producer Jon Landau shared a photo from the set , which showed the crew wearing face masks and visors .
`` Used my iPhone to snap a picture of our first shot back in production on the Avatar sequels , '' he wrote .
Avatar 2 is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track after being curtailed by COVID-19 .
In the UK , Pinewood Studios confirmed to Sky News that Jurassic World : Dominion would be resuming filming soon .
Earlier this week , Deadline reported that the latest instalment in the long-running dinosaur franchise would be the first major film to restart production here .
The film was stopped a month into its 20-week shoot when lockdown began in March .
Universal confirmed that filming will resume from the second week of July , although it is not known if that will include scenes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dallas Howard .
Presently , anyone flying into the UK must self-isolate for 14 days .
The Batman , starring Robert Pattinson , and Disney 's remake of The Little Mermaid with Halle Bailey were also starting in the UK before the pandemic , but it is not known when they will resume .
In Australia , the premier of Queensland said she had met director Baz Luhrmann about restarting shooting on his upcoming film about Elvis , which stars Tom Hanks .
Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson were among the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while they were in pre-production for the as-yet unnamed film .
They were kept in quarantine in hospital before flying home to Los Angeles once they had recovered .
The rest of the cast and crew remained in Australia and Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she was working with Luhrman to get cameras rolling again at Village Roadshow Studios on the Gold Coast .
She said : `` We want to ensure that this can happen as soon as possible while making sure that the cast and crew can operate safely .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ also currently developing a screen industry COVID safe plan that will be released shortly , paving the way for the whole sector to get rolling cameras again and crew back to work on sets . ''
Paramount has already announced that it hopes to start shooting the next Mission : Impossible movie - now due for release in 2021 - in Italy this September .
Work has not begun in Hollywood itself yet , as unions are still to sign off on safety protocols on how film sets should operate while the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' For the major film productions and a handful of premium TV shows , this pandemic was like tranquilising an elephant , '' a film studio executive , speaking on the condition of anonymity , told Variety .
`` We 're not going to be able to stand up right away . ''
Back in the UK , cinemas hope to reopen in July with extra safety measures in line with government guidance .

The film industry is taking its first tentative steps towards starting production again as the restrictions on travel and social distancing are lifted in some countries.
Film sets around the world were shut down when the coronavirus outbreak worsened in March.
Cinemas also had to close, meaning some major releases that were already finished - including Daniel Craig's final outing as James Bond - are still waiting to see the light of day.
But in New Zealand, work has begun once more on James Cameron's Avatar 2, which is believed to be the first big blockbuster to go back into production.
The Oscar-winning director and dozens of his crew members arrived in the country earlier this month and have been back working on the sequel to the 2009 hit at Stone Street Studios in Wellington.
Earlier this week, the film's producer Jon Landau shared a photo from the set, which showed the crew wearing face masks and visors.
"Used my iPhone to snap a picture of our first shot back in production on the Avatar sequels," he wrote.
Image: Avatar 2. Pic: Disney/ 20th Century Fox
Image: Avatar 2. Pic: Disney/ 20th Century Fox
Avatar 2 is not the only major production getting back on track after being curtailed by COVID-19.
In the UK, Pinewood Studios confirmed to Sky News that Jurassic World: Dominion would be resuming filming soon.
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Image: Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt will be filming in the UK
Earlier this week, Deadline reported that the latest instalment in the long-running dinosaur franchise would be the first major film to restart production here.
The film was stopped a month into its 20-week shoot when lockdown began in March.
Universal confirmed that filming will resume from the second week of July, although it is not known if that will include scenes with its stars Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard.
Presently, anyone flying into the UK must self-isolate for 14 days.
The Batman, starring Robert Pattinson, and Disney's remake of The Little Mermaid with Halle Bailey were also starting in the UK before the pandemic, but it is not known when they will resume.
Image: A man dressed as Batman during filming at the Glasgow Necropolis cemetery in February
In Australia, the premier of Queensland said she had met director Baz Luhrmann about restarting shooting on his upcoming film about Elvis, which stars Tom Hanks.
Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson were among the first high-profile figures to be diagnosed with COVID-19, while they were in pre-production for the as-yet unnamed film.
They were kept in quarantine in hospital before flying home to Los Angeles once they had recovered.
The rest of the cast and crew remained in Australia and Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she was working with Luhrman to get cameras rolling again at Village Roadshow Studios on the Gold Coast.
She said: "We want to ensure that this can happen as soon as possible while making sure that the cast and crew can operate safely.
"Screen Queensland and Queensland Health are also currently developing a screen industry COVID safe plan that will be released shortly, paving the way for the whole sector to get rolling cameras again and crew back to work on sets."
Image: Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson while in quarantine. Pic: Tom Hanks
Paramount has already announced that it hopes to start shooting the next Mission: Impossible movie - now due for release in 2021 - in Italy this September.
Work has not begun in Hollywood itself yet, as unions are still to sign off on safety protocols on how film sets should operate while the virus remains a threat.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"For the major film productions and a handful of premium TV shows, this pandemic was like tranquilising an elephant," a film studio executive, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Variety.
"We're not going to be able to stand up right away."
Back in the UK, cinemas hope to reopen in July with extra safety measures in line with government guidance.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Tesco faces defeat in investor revolt over boss's pay

Tesco is steeling itself for an embarrassing defeat over its chief executive 's £6.4m pay package when shareholders cast their votes at its annual meeting next week .
Sky News has learnt that sufficiently large numbers of City investors are planning to oppose the supermarket giant 's remuneration report to mean that a majority vote against it is a realistic possibility .
Many votes will not be cast until the early part of next week , meaning that the outcome remains uncertain .
One leading investor said it was possible that Tesco would secure a narrow vote in favour .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Tesco removed the online grocer Ocado from the peer group against which it measures its performance - thereby inflating the bonus for which chief executive Dave Lewis was eligible from £800,000 to £2.4m .
The change , which was disclosed in Tesco 's annual report , has split shareholder opinion , with some reluctant to criticise Mr Lewis 's package after he delivered a stunning turnaround of the business during a six-year tenure which ends later this year .
Next Friday 's vote is advisory , rather than binding , and so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ package even if Tesco is defeated .
A binding vote on the company 's future pay policy , which is held every three years , is not taking place this year .
Nevertheless , a majority vote against the remuneration report would be a blow to Tesco 's reputation at a time when executive pay is again firmly in the spotlight , with rising unemployment across the economy , and millions of workers forced to take significant pay cuts under the emergency furloughing scheme .
Tesco has argued that Ocado has increasingly become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retailer , and therefore should not be considered a direct competitor to it .
Both Institutional Shareholder Services and Glass Lewis , the proxy advisers , have urged shareholders to vote against the pay report .
`` Regardless of the semantics , it is considered a matter of poor practice to revise the terms of the LTIP after the performance conditions are set except in truly exceptional circumstances , '' ISS said .
`` That standard does not appear to be met in this case , and the committee 's explanations are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warrant such action . ''
A number of institutional investors said they had sympathy with the Tesco board 's position because of the disproportionate impact that Ocado 's share price performance had had on Tesco 's benchmarking exercise , but added that they were likely to vote against anyway .
Like its rivals , Tesco saw a surge in sales during the early part of the coronavirus pandemic , while also benefiting from the business rates holiday granted by the government .
It has said , however , that running its operations at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ costs of hundreds of millions of pounds .
: : Listen to the The World Tomorrow on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A Tesco spokeswoman said : `` Our policy is to reward all colleagues responsibly , fairly and competitively against the relevant market pay benchmark for their role .
`` The variable element of remuneration has paid out in line with the strong performance of the business last year , as we completed our five-year turnaround journey , delivered significant increases in profitability and cash generation , and built a better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suppliers and shareholders . ''
A source close to the company added that during the three-year performance share plan period , Ocado 's share price growth had become disproportionately influential .
`` It represented 10 % of the index at the start , but 36 % by the end - despite only representing around 1.5 % of the UK food retail market , '' the source said .

Tesco is steeling itself for an embarrassing defeat over its chief executive's £6.4m pay package when shareholders cast their votes at its annual meeting next week.
Sky News has learnt that sufficiently large numbers of City investors are planning to oppose the supermarket giant's remuneration report to mean that a majority vote against it is a realistic possibility.
Many votes will not be cast until the early part of next week, meaning that the outcome remains uncertain.
Image: Some are reluctant to criticise Mr Lewis's pay package after he delivered a turnaround of the business
One leading investor said it was possible that Tesco would secure a narrow vote in favour.
The prospect of a large-scale revolt comes after Tesco removed the online grocer Ocado from the peer group against which it measures its performance - thereby inflating the bonus for which chief executive Dave Lewis was eligible from £800,000 to £2.4m.
The change, which was disclosed in Tesco's annual report, has split shareholder opinion, with some reluctant to criticise Mr Lewis's package after he delivered a stunning turnaround of the business during a six-year tenure which ends later this year.
Next Friday's vote is advisory, rather than binding, and so would not affect Mr Lewis's remuneration package even if Tesco is defeated.
A binding vote on the company's future pay policy, which is held every three years, is not taking place this year.
Nevertheless, a majority vote against the remuneration report would be a blow to Tesco's reputation at a time when executive pay is again firmly in the spotlight, with rising unemployment across the economy, and millions of workers forced to take significant pay cuts under the emergency furloughing scheme.
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Image: Tesco removed the online grocer Ocado from the group against which it measures its performance
Tesco has argued that Ocado has increasingly become a technology company rather than a grocery retailer, and therefore should not be considered a direct competitor to it.
Both Institutional Shareholder Services and Glass Lewis, the proxy advisers, have urged shareholders to vote against the pay report.
"Regardless of the semantics, it is considered a matter of poor practice to revise the terms of the LTIP after the performance conditions are set except in truly exceptional circumstances," ISS said.
"That standard does not appear to be met in this case, and the committee's explanations are not considered to be a compelling reason to warrant such action."
A number of institutional investors said they had sympathy with the Tesco board's position because of the disproportionate impact that Ocado's share price performance had had on Tesco's benchmarking exercise, but added that they were likely to vote against anyway.
Like its rivals, Tesco saw a surge in sales during the early part of the coronavirus pandemic, while also benefiting from the business rates holiday granted by the government.
It has said, however, that running its operations at enhanced capacity during the crisis incurred additional costs of hundreds of millions of pounds.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the The World Tomorrow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
A Tesco spokeswoman said: "Our policy is to reward all colleagues responsibly, fairly and competitively against the relevant market pay benchmark for their role.
"The variable element of remuneration has paid out in line with the strong performance of the business last year, as we completed our five-year turnaround journey, delivered significant increases in profitability and cash generation, and built a better business for our customers, colleagues, suppliers and shareholders."
A source close to the company added that during the three-year performance share plan period, Ocado's share price growth had become disproportionately influential.
"It represented 10% of the index at the start, but 36% by the end - despite only representing around 1.5% of the UK food retail market," the source said.


news--2020-06-18--Coronavirus: Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab accuses Russia of trying to 'exploit' pandemic

Russia and other countries are trying to `` exploit '' the coronavirus crisis , the UK 's foreign secretary has told Sky News .
Dominic Raab said hostile governments are using the challenges thrown up by the global pandemic to take advantage of `` a perceived opportunity '' .
But he denied their actions have had a substantial impact , adding : `` I do n't think they 've made a material difference to our response in health terms . ''
Speaking to Kay Burley @ Breakfast , Mr Raab also pointed to China 's bid to enforce its national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I think we 've seen it in relation to Hong Kong , '' he said on Thursday .
`` I think some people are arguing - it 's difficult to glean whether it 's true or not - that this is something - the national security legislation that 's being put forwards - [ that ] is being done at a time when the world 's attention is on coronavirus . ''
Sky News reported earlier this week on a vast Russian online deception operation , unveiling a coordinated and extensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the US .
Downing Street has previously accused Russia of spreading `` disinformation '' , after a state-run news agency claimed Boris Johnson was to be put on a ventilator when he was hospitalised with coronavirus .
And the EU has claimed pro-Kremlin media are spreading false information on COVID-19 in line with an alleged Russian strategy to `` sow distrust and chaos and exacerbate crisis situations '' .
Moscow denied the allegation , accusing the EU of `` fake news '' .
In his interview , Mr Raab also shed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the UK 's intelligence and security committee on Russian interference in UK elections .
The committee 's last chair said they gave it to Downing Street for clearance on 17 October - but it still remains unpublished .
Mr Raab revealed while he has `` not personally read all the detail of it '' there is `` nothing that gives me reason to believe there was any material impact '' on election outcomes .
And he talked down a report in the Financial Times that the Foreign Office has set its sights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ International Trade , after this week 's announcement of a Whitehall shakeup .
`` That 's not true - there 's no question of eyeing anything up , '' he said .

Russia and other countries are trying to "exploit" the coronavirus crisis, the UK's foreign secretary has told Sky News.
Dominic Raab said hostile governments are using the challenges thrown up by the global pandemic to take advantage of "a perceived opportunity".
But he denied their actions have had a substantial impact, adding: "I don't think they've made a material difference to our response in health terms."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:31 China hits back at UK over citizenship offer
Speaking to Kay Burley@Breakfast, Mr Raab also pointed to China's bid to enforce its national security law on a former British colony.
"I think we've seen it in relation to Hong Kong," he said on Thursday.
"I think some people are arguing - it's difficult to glean whether it's true or not - that this is something - the national security legislation that's being put forwards - [that] is being done at a time when the world's attention is on coronavirus."
Sky News reported earlier this week on a vast Russian online deception operation, unveiling a coordinated and extensive attempt to create tensions between European countries and the US.
Image: A Russian online deception campaign used well-known social media sites
Downing Street has previously accused Russia of spreading "disinformation", after a state-run news agency claimed Boris Johnson was to be put on a ventilator when he was hospitalised with coronavirus.
And the EU has claimed pro-Kremlin media are spreading false information on COVID-19 in line with an alleged Russian strategy to "sow distrust and chaos and exacerbate crisis situations".
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Moscow denied the allegation, accusing the EU of "fake news".
In his interview, Mr Raab also shed a small glimmer of light on a report by the UK's intelligence and security committee on Russian interference in UK elections.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 Raab equates £900k jet paint job with value for taxpayer
The committee's last chair said they gave it to Downing Street for clearance on 17 October - but it still remains unpublished.
Mr Raab revealed while he has "not personally read all the detail of it" there is "nothing that gives me reason to believe there was any material impact" on election outcomes.
And he talked down a report in the Financial Times that the Foreign Office has set its sights on a takeover of the Department for International Trade, after this week's announcement of a Whitehall shakeup.
"That's not true - there's no question of eyeing anything up," he said.


news--2020-05-22--Coronavirus: How the UK's 14-day travel quarantine will work

People arriving in the UK will now have to self-isolate for 14 days under new rules introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19 .
Only people working in specific cross-border jobs , such as lorry drivers , will be exempt from the measure .
It means international holidays may not be possible for the vast majority of British people this summer .
Here is how the system will work .
When does it start ?
The measure comes into force on Monday 8 June and will be reviewed by the government every three weeks .
The first review will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be assessed include rate of infection and transmission internationally , measures implemented by other countries , and levels of imported cases in other countries with more relaxed border measures .
The quarantine will apply to anyone arriving into the UK by plane , train or ferry .
Why is the quarantine being introduced now ?
The number of coronavirus cases in the UK is now falling , but many countries are in earlier stages of their outbreaks .
Places such as the US and Brazil are still reporting thousands of new COVID-19 cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to limit the amount of contact international travellers , including UK nationals , have with other people for the first two weeks they are in the UK .
Requiring people to self-isolate for 14 days should ensure that anyone entering the country with coronavirus does not pass it on .
Outlining the government 's plans to MPs , Home Secretary Priti Patel said : `` The transmission rate in the UK continues to decline and international travel is likely to resume from its record low .
Therefore the scientific advice is that imported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant threat to our national effort .
`` Travellers from overseas could become a higher proportion of the overall number of infections in the UK and increase the spread of the disease .
`` The government is acting now by taking a proportionate and time-limited approach to protect the health of the British people . ''
How will it work ?
After arriving in the UK , travellers will be asked to go straight to the place where they will self-isolate for 14 days .
The only reasons they will be allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , support from social services , food and medicine if they can not be delivered , a funeral of a close relative or an emergency .
Friends and family can collect travellers from the airport , port or station .
Travellers should only use public transport if they have no other option .
If they do choose to use public transport , they should wear a mask or a face covering over the nose and mouth , and stay two metres apart from others .
Visitors , including friends and family , are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential care .
How is it going to be enforced ?
Travellers will be asked to fill in a form on arrival , which will include their contact information and an address where they will have to remain for two weeks .
If the traveller does not have somewhere to stay , accommodation will be arranged by the government .
In England , health officials will perform spot checks to ensure compliance with the measures and fines of up to £1,000 will be given , with the threat of prosecution also .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or on their phone , to prove they have completed the form , '' Ms Patel said .
`` Border Force will undertake spot checks at the border and may refuse entry to non-resident nationals who refuse to comply .
They will have the power to impose a £100 fixed penalty notice to those who do n't comply . ''
The home secretary said Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland will be setting out their own enforcement approaches .
The common travel area with Ireland , the Channel Islands and the Isle of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government has also made exceptions for a number of key jobs , including road hauliers , medical officials , Eurotunnel train drivers and aviation inspectors .
Seasonal agricultural workers are among those who are exempt and can self-isolate on the property they are working .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Are we allowed to travel internationally ?
The government currently only recommends travelling internationally if it is essential .
Social distancing measures must be followed during your journey and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a precaution , especially when indoors , in a crowded area .
The Foreign Office also warns that travellers must be aware that countries may restrict travel and close their borders without notice if the outbreak worsens .
Could 'air bridges ' allow some international travel to resume ?
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has backed calls for `` air bridges '' to be created , and the prime minister is said to be personally in favour of the idea .
This would see agreements sought between countries with similar low numbers of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into quarantine .
Greece and Portugal have both suggested air bridges could be created with the UK to allow tourists to visit over the summer months .
But no such agreements have so far been finalised .
Ms Patel acknowledged the quarantine will cause issues for the tourism industry , but said the policy would be kept under regular review to ensure it remained `` proportionate and necessary '' .
And she said ministers were considering measures that would allow greater freedom in future - including establishing `` international travel corridors '' with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are other countries doing ?
New Zealand , South Africa , South Korea , Spain and the US are among countries that already require new arrivals to undergo a 14-day quarantine .
This is despite the World Health Organisation saying in February that measures which `` significantly interfere '' with international travel `` may only be justified at the beginning of an outbreak '' .
However , some European nations have indicated they would like to start welcoming visitors again soon .
Spain in particular has said it would like to reopen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the travel industry reacted ?
The move has angered many travel and hotel businesses keen to return to some sense of normality , having seen a dramatic fall in customers and bookings during the pandemic .
Airlines are also heavily critical of the measure , which they argue will inflict further damage to an industry already devastated by the coronavirus crisis .
With planes around the world grounded since late March , carriers had hoped to start flying from July , but bosses say the quarantine rules will hamper that recovery .
Three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protest at the `` wholly unjustified and disproportionate '' step .
Describing itself as a `` pre-action protocol letter , '' meaning it could be followed by legal action , the correspondence from British Airways , Ryanair and easyJet argued the government had failed to justify the blanket nature of the regulations .
`` The effect is to establish a wholly unjustified and disproportionate restriction on individuals travelling to England ( and questionably the United Kingdom ) and will inevitably mean that there is very little increase in the numbers of persons leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter said .
It came after Willie Walsh , the chief executive of BA 's parent company IAG , told Sky News that the quarantine policy was `` terrible '' and had `` torpedoed our opportunity to get flying in July '' .
Separately , the chief executive of Wizz Air Jozsef Varadi told Sky News that demand for flights to and from the UK could be hit by up to 80 % .

People arriving in the UK will now have to self-isolate for 14 days under new rules introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Only people working in specific cross-border jobs, such as lorry drivers, will be exempt from the measure.
It means international holidays may not be possible for the vast majority of British people this summer.
Here is how the system will work.
Image: Holidays to places like Italy may not be as appealing if you have to quarantine when you get home
When does it start?
The measure comes into force on Monday 8 June and will be reviewed by the government every three weeks. The first review will be on 28 June.
Factors that will be assessed include rate of infection and transmission internationally, measures implemented by other countries, and levels of imported cases in other countries with more relaxed border measures.
The quarantine will apply to anyone arriving into the UK by plane, train or ferry.
Why is the quarantine being introduced now?
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The number of coronavirus cases in the UK is now falling, but many countries are in earlier stages of their outbreaks.
Places such as the US and Brazil are still reporting thousands of new COVID-19 cases every day.
The government therefore wants to limit the amount of contact international travellers, including UK nationals, have with other people for the first two weeks they are in the UK.
Requiring people to self-isolate for 14 days should ensure that anyone entering the country with coronavirus does not pass it on.
Outlining the government's plans to MPs, Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "The transmission rate in the UK continues to decline and international travel is likely to resume from its record low. Therefore the scientific advice is that imported cases of the virus pose a more significant threat to our national effort.
"Travellers from overseas could become a higher proportion of the overall number of infections in the UK and increase the spread of the disease.
"The government is acting now by taking a proportionate and time-limited approach to protect the health of the British people."
How will it work?
After arriving in the UK, travellers will be asked to go straight to the place where they will self-isolate for 14 days.
The only reasons they will be allowed to leave quarantine is for urgent medical attention, support from social services, food and medicine if they cannot be delivered, a funeral of a close relative or an emergency.
Friends and family can collect travellers from the airport, port or station.
Travellers should only use public transport if they have no other option.
If they do choose to use public transport, they should wear a mask or a face covering over the nose and mouth, and stay two metres apart from others.
Visitors, including friends and family, are not allowed, unless they are providing essential care.
Image: The rules will also apply to those travelling by international rail
How is it going to be enforced?
Travellers will be asked to fill in a form on arrival, which will include their contact information and an address where they will have to remain for two weeks.
If the traveller does not have somewhere to stay, accommodation will be arranged by the government.
In England, health officials will perform spot checks to ensure compliance with the measures and fines of up to £1,000 will be given, with the threat of prosecution also.
"Passengers require a receipt, either printed or on their phone, to prove they have completed the form," Ms Patel said.
"Border Force will undertake spot checks at the border and may refuse entry to non-resident nationals who refuse to comply. They will have the power to impose a £100 fixed penalty notice to those who don't comply."
The home secretary said Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will be setting out their own enforcement approaches.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:51 Heathrow: 'Our revenue has disappeared'
Who is exempt?
The common travel area with Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man will be unaffected by the measure.
The government has also made exceptions for a number of key jobs, including road hauliers, medical officials, Eurotunnel train drivers and aviation inspectors.
Seasonal agricultural workers are among those who are exempt and can self-isolate on the property they are working.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Are we allowed to travel internationally?
The government currently only recommends travelling internationally if it is essential.
Social distancing measures must be followed during your journey and a face covering can be worn as a precaution, especially when indoors, in a crowded area.
The Foreign Office also warns that travellers must be aware that countries may restrict travel and close their borders without notice if the outbreak worsens.
Image: Holidays in the UK may be popular this year
Could 'air bridges' allow some international travel to resume?
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has backed calls for "air bridges" to be created, and the prime minister is said to be personally in favour of the idea.
This would see agreements sought between countries with similar low numbers of coronavirus cases to let passengers travel without going into quarantine.
Greece and Portugal have both suggested air bridges could be created with the UK to allow tourists to visit over the summer months.
But no such agreements have so far been finalised.
Ms Patel acknowledged the quarantine will cause issues for the tourism industry, but said the policy would be kept under regular review to ensure it remained "proportionate and necessary".
And she said ministers were considering measures that would allow greater freedom in future - including establishing "international travel corridors" with countries that were deemed safe.
What are other countries doing?
New Zealand, South Africa, South Korea, Spain and the US are among countries that already require new arrivals to undergo a 14-day quarantine.
This is despite the World Health Organisation saying in February that measures which "significantly interfere" with international travel "may only be justified at the beginning of an outbreak".
However, some European nations have indicated they would like to start welcoming visitors again soon.
Spain in particular has said it would like to reopen to tourists from late June.
How has the travel industry reacted?
The move has angered many travel and hotel businesses keen to return to some sense of normality, having seen a dramatic fall in customers and bookings during the pandemic.
Airlines are also heavily critical of the measure, which they argue will inflict further damage to an industry already devastated by the coronavirus crisis.
With planes around the world grounded since late March, carriers had hoped to start flying from July, but bosses say
the quarantine rules will hamper that recovery.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:15 IAG boss: Government has 'torpedoed' attempts to fly again in July
Three airlines have written to the government in protest at the "wholly unjustified and disproportionate" step.
Describing itself as a "pre-action protocol letter," meaning it could be followed by legal action, the correspondence from British Airways, Ryanair and easyJet argued the government had failed to justify the blanket nature of the regulations.
"The effect is to establish a wholly unjustified and disproportionate restriction on individuals travelling to
England (and questionably the United Kingdom) and will inevitably mean that there is very little increase in the
numbers of persons leaving and entering the country," the letter said.
It came after Willie Walsh, the chief executive of BA's parent company IAG, told Sky News that the quarantine policy was "terrible" and had "torpedoed our opportunity to get flying in July".
Separately, the chief executive of Wizz Air Jozsef Varadi told Sky News that demand for flights to and from the UK could be hit by up to 80%.


news--2020-05-31--Coronavirus: Saudi Arabia and Jerusalem reopen mosques as lockdown eases

Tens of thousands of mosques are reopening in the Middle East after the coronavirus outbreak .
Around 90,000 mosques in Saudi Arabia have been reopened , with government officials arranging for prayer rugs , washrooms and shelves being sanitised before use .
But the Grand Mosque in Mecca , which houses the cube-shaped Kaaba that Muslims around the world pray towards , will remain closed to the public for the foreseeable future .
The mosque in Medina , where the Prophet Muhammad is buried , will be partially opened to the public to pray outside .
The continued closure of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the kingdom may suspend this year 's annual Muslim hajj pilgrimage , which falls in late July .
A senior Saudi official has already told prospective pilgrims not to plan for the hajj this year amid the global pandemic .
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs said millions of text messages were sent to people in multiple languages to inform them about the new rules for public prayer , which include keeping two metres apart , wearing face masks at all times and abstaining from greeting one another with handshakes or hugs .
Children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while the elderly and those with chronic conditions are being told to pray at home .
People are advised to perform the mandatory ablution - where parts of the body are washed before entering the premises - at home since washrooms at mosques will be closed , to use hand sanitiser and to bring their own prayer rugs and copies of the Koran .
The restrictions call for mosques to open just 15 minutes before each of the five daily prayers and to close 10 minutes after they conclude .
Friday sermons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 15 minutes .
Despite taking early and unprecedented measures to curb the spread of the virus , Saudi Arabia has recorded more than 83,000 cases , including 480 deaths .
Meanwhile , Israel has weathered the COVID-19 storm better than some .
It has recorded fewer than 300 deaths and has managed to mostly keep its daily infection count to the low dozens since the beginning of May .
But it also imposed severe restrictions which have hit its economy and caused its unemployment rate to rise rapidly .
Many of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , began to be eased earlier this month .
The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem , the third holiest site for Muslims after Saudi Arabia 's Mecca and Medina , also reopened for prayers on Sunday for the first time since it was closed in mid-March .
Thousands of people outside the holy site 's gates before it opened , with many wearing surgical masks .
As they were allowed to enter , worshippers stopped to have their temperature checked .
The mosque was one of Jerusalem 's many holy sites , including the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Western Wall , that were restricted to worshippers at the height of Israel 's coronavirus outbreak .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Tens of thousands of mosques are reopening in the Middle East after the coronavirus outbreak.
Around 90,000 mosques in Saudi Arabia have been reopened, with government officials arranging for prayer rugs, washrooms and shelves being sanitised before use.
Image: Around 90,000 mosques in Saudi Arabia have been reopened
But the Grand Mosque in Mecca, which houses the cube-shaped Kaaba that Muslims around the world pray towards, will remain closed to the public for the foreseeable future.
The mosque in Medina, where the Prophet Muhammad is buried, will be partially opened to the public to pray outside.
The continued closure of Mecca points to the increasing likelihood that the kingdom may suspend this year's annual Muslim hajj pilgrimage, which falls in late July.
A senior Saudi official has already told prospective pilgrims not to plan for the hajj this year amid the global pandemic.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs said millions of text messages were sent to people in multiple languages to inform them about the new rules for public prayer, which include keeping two metres apart, wearing face masks at all times and abstaining from greeting one another with handshakes or hugs.
Children under 15 are not allowed inside mosques, while the elderly and those with chronic conditions are being told to pray at home.
Image: Doors have been opened for the first time in more than two months
People are advised to perform the mandatory ablution - where parts of the body are washed before entering the premises - at home since washrooms at mosques will be closed, to use hand sanitiser and to bring their own prayer rugs and copies of the Koran.
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The restrictions call for mosques to open just 15 minutes before each of the five daily prayers and to close 10 minutes after they conclude. Friday sermons and prayers are to last no longer than 15 minutes.
Despite taking early and unprecedented measures to curb the spread of the virus, Saudi Arabia has recorded more than 83,000 cases, including 480 deaths.
Meanwhile, Israel has weathered the COVID-19 storm better than some. It has recorded fewer than 300 deaths and has managed to mostly keep its daily infection count to the low dozens since the beginning of May.
But it also imposed severe restrictions which have hit its economy and caused its unemployment rate to rise rapidly. Many of those restrictions, including on places of worship, began to be eased earlier this month.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, the third holiest site for Muslims after Saudi Arabia's Mecca and Medina, also reopened for prayers on Sunday for the first time since it was closed in mid-March.
Image: The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem has also reopened
Thousands of people outside the holy site's gates before it opened, with many wearing surgical masks. As they were allowed to enter, worshippers stopped to have their temperature checked.
The mosque was one of Jerusalem's many holy sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Western Wall, that were restricted to worshippers at the height of Israel's coronavirus outbreak.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-06-08--Coronavirus: No mention of COVID-19 as Kim Jong Un chairs Politburo meeting

A smiling Kim Jong Un has been pictured at the Politburo of North Korea 's ruling Workers ' Party .
A series of images show the leader sitting at a large round table , flanked by veteran aides Choe Ryong Hae and Pak Pong Ju .
Neither Mr Kim or any of the other officials were wearing masks - and the virus pandemic was not mentioned in the state media report about the meeting .
Instead , `` the meeting discussed in depth some crucial issues arising in further developing the self-sufficient economy of the country and improving the standard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest images come just weeks after Mr Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser plant in a region north of Pyongyang , the country 's capital city .
It was the first time he had been seen since 11 April - an absence which had led many to speculate he was gravely ill after surgery .
There were questions about his health after he missed the anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung on 15 April .
This is a major holiday in North Korea and he would usually visit the mausoleum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While North Korea says it has no confirmed cases of the coronavirus , South Korea 's main intelligence agency has said an outbreak there can not be ruled out .

A smiling Kim Jong Un has been pictured at the Politburo of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party.
A series of images show the leader sitting at a large round table, flanked by veteran aides Choe Ryong Hae and Pak Pong Ju.
Neither Mr Kim or any of the other officials were wearing masks - and the virus pandemic was not mentioned in the state media report about the meeting.
Image: The virus pandemic was not mentioned in the state media report about the meeting
Instead, "the meeting discussed in depth some crucial issues arising in further developing the self-sufficient economy of the country and improving the standard of people's living".
The latest images come just weeks after Mr Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser plant in a region north of Pyongyang, the country's capital city.
It was the first time he had been seen since 11 April - an absence which had led many to speculate he was gravely ill after surgery.
There were questions about his health after he missed the anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung on 15 April.
This is a major holiday in North Korea and he would usually visit the mausoleum where his grandfather lies in state.
While North Korea says it has no confirmed cases of the coronavirus, South Korea's main intelligence agency has said an outbreak there cannot be ruled out.