news--2020-03-03--Coronavirus: Police may only deal with serious crime if there is mass COVID-19 outbreak

Police could be reduced to just dealing with very serious crimes and maintaining public order , while the NHS could be closed to all but critical care , as part of the government 's coronavirus plans .
Under ministers ' action plan to deal with a mass outbreak of COVID-19 , the disease caused by coronavirus , it has been revealed emergency services all have measures in place to `` fulfil critical functions '' .
But they would have to reduce services should significant numbers of police officers , NHS staff and other public services be struck down by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were in place to draft in the army , if necessary , to maintain public order .
• Police would `` concentrate on responding to serious crimes '' if they lose a `` significant '' amount of staff to illness • UK has stockpiles of medicines for the NHS , along with protective clothing and equipment for medical staff • If coronavirus becomes widespread , there will be a focus on essential services for those `` most at risk '' • The Ministry of Defence will provide support as needed • There will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public and the media • Social distancing strategies could be implemented , which would include school closures , home-working , and reducing the number of large scale gatherings • Non-urgent operations and procedures could be cancelled and hospital discharges monitored to free up beds • Measures would come into place to help businesses with short-term cash flow problems • A distribution strategy for sending out key medicines and equipment to NHS and social care patients Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there were `` long-established plans by which the police will , obviously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will prioritise those things that they have to do '' .
He added : `` And the army is of course always ready to back-fill as and when , but that is under the reasonable worst-case scenario . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ministers did not put figures on projected mortality rates for a severe outbreak of COVID-19 , but confirmed there could be an increase in deaths arising from the outbreak .
Reports of worst-case scenario plans suggest four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus with up to 500,000 deaths .
The government action plan , revealed on Tuesday , warned of a depletion in workforces across the UK .
Officials said they were `` uncertain of the impact of the outbreak for business '' but confirmed that one in five workers could be absent in the weeks the virus peaks .
The government also said it would consider closing schools , encourage working from home and the reduction of large-scale gatherings to slow the spread of the disease .
Universities and further education colleges could also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conference , the chief scientific adviser to the government , Sir Patrick Vallance , said restricting travel once the epidemic was `` everywhere '' would make `` no difference at all '' .
`` At the moment we are certainly not recommending any change to behaviours in relation to that , '' he said .
`` And if it grows in the UK , then of course it does n't really make more sense to say that you 're at more risk somewhere else than you are here . ''
Mr Johnson also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with people , adding : `` I was at a hospital the other night where I think there were coronavirus patients and I was shaking hands with everybody , you will be pleased to know , and I continue to shake hands .
`` People must make up their own minds but I think the scientific evidence is ... our judgement is that washing your hands is the crucial thing . ''
On parents worried about further school closures , Mr Johnson said : `` We do n't think that schools should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible schools should stay open but that schools should follow the advice of Public Health England . ''
Speaking about the concerned members of the public stockpiling food and supplies , Sir Patrick said there was `` no reason '' to do so .
`` There 's no reason to be doing any panic-buying of any sort or going out and keeping large supplies of things , '' he said .
`` Clearly , there will need to be measures in cases of household quarantine for making sure that food is in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but we imagine that could be a rolling case of household quarantine if that measure becomes necessary . ''
The comments come despite the government plan warning of the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus .
`` It is possible that an outbreak or pandemic of COVID-19 could occur in multiple waves and therefore , depending on what the emerging evidence tells us , it may be necessary to ensure readiness for a future wave of activity , '' the plan said .
The government 's 27-page document outlines its response in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak , delaying its spread , mitigating the impact of the disease once it becomes established , and implementing a research programme aimed at improving diagnostics and treatment for COVID-19 .
The government 's response is currently in the containment phase , along with research being carried out and planning for the delay and mitigation phase .
Officials are hoping to delay the peak of the outbreak until the spring and summer months when health services are less busy .
Earlier Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted some of the planned action would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` quite prepared to do that if it 's necessary '' .
However , speaking to Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show , he said ministers had not yet ruled out `` succeeding in containing the disease '' at its current relatively low level .
Mr Hancock said the government was seeking `` as targeted an approach as possible '' with the focus on elderly and vulnerable people , who are likely to see the biggest impact from the virus .
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cases involve people who have recently travelled to Italy , which has seen the biggest outbreak in Europe .
The European Commission on Monday said the risk level for those in the European Union and UK was `` moderate to high '' .
There are currently more than 91,000 cases of coronavirus around the world and more than 3,000 deaths .

Police could be reduced to just dealing with very serious crimes and maintaining public order, while the NHS could be closed to all but critical care, as part of the government's coronavirus plans.
Under ministers' action plan to deal with a mass outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, it has been revealed emergency services all have measures in place to "fulfil critical functions".
But they would have to reduce services should significant numbers of police officers, NHS staff and other public services be struck down by the virus.
The government also confirmed plans were in place to draft in the army, if necessary, to maintain public order.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:48 COVID-19: Who are the most vulnerable?
Key points:
Police would "concentrate on responding to serious crimes" if they lose a "significant" amount of staff to illness
UK has stockpiles of medicines for the NHS, along with protective clothing and equipment for medical staff
If coronavirus becomes widespread, there will be a focus on essential services for those "most at risk"
The Ministry of Defence will provide support as needed
There will be increased government communication with parliament, the public and the media
Social distancing strategies could be implemented, which would include school closures, home-working, and reducing the number of large scale gatherings
Non-urgent operations and procedures could be cancelled and hospital discharges monitored to free up beds
Measures would come into place to help businesses with short-term cash flow problems
A distribution strategy for sending out key medicines and equipment to NHS and social care patients
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there were "long-established plans by which the police will, obviously, keep the public safe but they will prioritise those things that they have to do".
He added: "And the army is of course always ready to back-fill as and when, but that is under the reasonable worst-case scenario."
Listen to "How will coronavirus 'battle' plan affect everyday life? | 2 March 2020" on Spreaker. :: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ministers did not put figures on projected mortality rates for a severe outbreak of COVID-19, but confirmed there could be an increase in deaths arising from the outbreak.
Advertisement
Reports of worst-case scenario plans suggest four out of five people could contract the virus with up to 500,000 deaths.
The government action plan, revealed on Tuesday, warned of a depletion in workforces across the UK.
Officials said they were "uncertain of the impact of the outbreak for business" but confirmed that one in five workers could be absent in the weeks the virus peaks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:48 How an NHS call centre is dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak
The government also said it would consider closing schools, encourage working from home and the reduction of large-scale gatherings to slow the spread of the disease.
Universities and further education colleges could also be closed.
Speaking at a news conference, the chief scientific adviser to the government, Sir Patrick Vallance, said restricting travel once the epidemic was "everywhere" would make "no difference at all".
"At the moment we are certainly not recommending any change to behaviours in relation to that," he said.
"And if it grows in the UK, then of course it doesn't really make more sense to say that you're at more risk somewhere else than you are here."
Image: Sir Patrick Valance said restricting travel would make 'no difference'
Mr Johnson also told reporters he continued to shake hands with people, adding: "I was at a hospital the other night where I think there were coronavirus patients and I was shaking hands with everybody, you will be pleased to know, and I continue to shake hands.
"People must make up their own minds but I think the scientific evidence is... our judgement is that washing your hands is the crucial thing."
On parents worried about further school closures, Mr Johnson said: "We don't think that schools should be closing in principle - we think if possible schools should stay open but that schools should follow the advice of Public Health England."
Speaking about the concerned members of the public stockpiling food and supplies, Sir Patrick said there was "no reason" to do so.
"There's no reason to be doing any panic-buying of any sort or going out and keeping large supplies of things," he said.
"Clearly, there will need to be measures in cases of household quarantine for making sure that food is in the right place at the right time, but we imagine that could be a rolling case of household quarantine if that measure becomes necessary."
The comments come despite the government plan warning of the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus.
"It is possible that an outbreak or pandemic of COVID-19 could occur in multiple waves and therefore, depending on what the emerging evidence tells us, it may be necessary to ensure readiness for a future wave of activity," the plan said.
The government's 27-page document outlines its response in four stages.
They include containing the outbreak, delaying its spread, mitigating the impact of the disease once it becomes established, and implementing a research programme aimed at improving diagnostics and treatment for COVID-19.
The government's response is currently in the containment phase, along with research being carried out and planning for the delay and mitigation phase.
Officials are hoping to delay the peak of the outbreak until the spring and summer months when health services are less busy.
Earlier Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted some of the planned action would be "uncomfortable" but insisted the government was "quite prepared to do that if it's necessary".
However, speaking to Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast show, he said ministers had not yet ruled out "succeeding in containing the disease" at its current relatively low level.
Mr Hancock said the government was seeking "as targeted an approach as possible" with the focus on elderly and vulnerable people, who are likely to see the biggest impact from the virus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:36 Coronavirus: Why are older people most at risk?
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK currently stands at 51.
Many of the cases involve people who have recently travelled to Italy, which has seen the biggest outbreak in Europe.
The European Commission on Monday said the risk level for those in the European Union and UK was "moderate to high".
There are currently more than 91,000 cases of coronavirus around the world and more than 3,000 deaths.
Virus Outbreak: Global Emergency - Watch a special Sky News programme on coronavirus at 6pm weekdays.


news--2020-03-26--Coronavirus: UK deaths reach 584 after rise of 119

The number of people who have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK has increased by 119 to 584 in 24 hours .
At the end of Wednesday , the UK count had stood at 465 .
The number of people who have tested positive for coronavirus in the UK now stands at 11,658 .
The number who have tested negative stands at 93,208 .
The timescale for reporting figures changed as of today , meaning the latest deaths were recorded between 5pm on 24 March and 5pm on 25 March .
NHS England said on Thursday that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England , taking the total to 521 .
It said Wednesday 's low rise of 28 deaths was because they only covered 9am to 5pm - not 24 hours .
: : Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had announced three deaths in Scotland earlier , with the number of positive COVID-19 tests in the country having also increased from 719 to 894 - a rise of 175 in a day .
Public Health Wales said another six people had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been diagnosed with the disease , bringing the total number of confirmed cases there to 741 .
Northern Ireland 's Public Health Agency said another three people had died after testing positive with the illness there , adding that the total number of confirmed cases had reached 241 - a rise of 32 .
Those rises bring the regional totals to : Of the 107 deaths in England announced on Thursday , 40 were recorded in the West Midlands - with Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust accounting for 18 of that total .
More @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that trust than at any other in England outside London .
In total , 90 people who tested positive for coronavirus have now died in the West Midlands , the highest total outside the capital , where 177 people have now died with the virus .
While NHS England announced these deaths at 5pm on Thursday , many of the patients had died earlier this week or last week .
All the patients were aged between 32 and 102 and all but two of them ( who were 71 and 86 ) had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , incident director for the coronavirus outbreak at Public Health Wales , said : `` Novel Coronavirus is now circulating in every part of Wales . ''
The Scottish government , which has brought an extra 1.5 million face masks to protect health and social care staff , hopes to have powers to enforce social distancing in place by the end of today .
Speaking at St Andrew 's House in Edinburgh , Ms Sturgeon said people who break the rules could be subject to prohibition notices and liable for on-the-spot fines and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take a soft approach to enforcement '' , but they will have the power to act , she said .
Ms Sturgeon added that safeguards would be in place which would be reviewed every 21 days , and the new legislation would last a maximum of six months .
Scotland 's chief medical officer , Catherine Calderwood , said between 40,000 to 50,000 people in the country may be infected with coronavirus .
`` It has been very encouraging see the empty streets and shops and transport around Scotland .
This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I encourage people as the weekend comes ... to not relax those roles , to not be tempted to see other families from other households , '' she said .
It comes as south of the border , North Yorkshire police announced the force will be using checkpoints in the region to ask drivers if their journey is essential in a bid to prevent people from going outdoors .
Assistant Chief Constable Mike Walker said : `` The new and significant restrictions announced by the prime minister on Monday evening spell out very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us must do to save lives .
The message is clear and the warning stark .
Stay at home , save lives .
`` These are the lives of the people we know and love .
Our partners , mothers , fathers , sisters , brothers , children , grandparents .
`` You may never be in such a position again where your simple actions will lead directly to saving lives . ''
The force also said the checkpoints would be random and unannounced .
There is also a UK-wide push on increasing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manufactured in time for the expected surge in coronavirus patients across the UK in around three weeks .
COVID-19 has overwhelmed well-resourced hospitals in northern Italy , alarming doctors in Britain .
The NHS has more than 8,000 ventilators , but the government says 30,000 will be needed .
The PM 's spokesman said thousands of new ventilators will arrive in the coming weeks , with thousands more in the coming months , and the NHS will determine where they go based on `` operational need '' .
He added all manufacturers turning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests from expert clinicians and health regulators before purchases are made .
Billionaire entrepreneur Sir James Dyson said the government has ordered 10,000 ventilators from his company .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ministers are being urged to step-up testing for coronavirus , especially among health workers , so they can get back to work as soon as possible if they have already had the virus .
But Professor Chris Whitty , the UK 's chief medical officer , has dismissed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ready to buy online next week .
He said the accuracy of the tests needed to be properly tested before they were made available .
In a gesture of thanks to honour frontline NHS staff , everyone across the nation has been invited to join in a mass round of applause from their doorsteps , windows and balconies tonight at 8pm .

The number of people who have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK has increased by 119 to 584 in 24 hours.
At the end of Wednesday, the UK count had stood at 465.
The number of people who have tested positive for coronavirus in the UK now stands at 11,658.
The number who have tested negative stands at 93,208.
The timescale for reporting figures changed as of today, meaning the latest deaths were recorded between 5pm on 24 March and 5pm on 25 March.
NHS England said on Thursday that a further 107 people had died in England, taking the total to 521.
It said Wednesday's low rise of 28 deaths was because they only covered 9am to 5pm - not 24 hours.
Cases in England rose 1,809 to 11,338.
:: Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Advertisement
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had announced three deaths in Scotland earlier, with the number of positive COVID-19 tests in the country having also increased from 719 to 894 - a rise of 175 in a day.
Public Health Wales said another six people had died and a further 113 people had been diagnosed with the disease, bringing the total number of confirmed cases there to 741.
Northern Ireland's Public Health Agency said another three people had died after testing positive with the illness there, adding that the total number of confirmed cases had reached 241 - a rise of 32.
Those rises bring the regional totals to:
England - 521 deaths
Scotland - 25 deaths
Wales - 28 deaths
Northern Ireland - 10 deaths
Of the 107 deaths in England announced on Thursday, 40 were recorded in the West Midlands - with Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust accounting for 18 of that total.
More people have now died with COVID-19 at that trust than at any other in England outside London.
In total, 90 people who tested positive for coronavirus have now died in the West Midlands, the highest total outside the capital, where 177 people have now died with the virus.
While NHS England announced these deaths at 5pm on Thursday, many of the patients had died earlier this week or last week.
All the patients were aged between 32 and 102 and all but two of them (who were 71 and 86) had underlying health conditions.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:52 How does the COVID-19 antibody test work?
Dr Robin Howe, incident director for the coronavirus outbreak at Public Health Wales, said: "Novel Coronavirus is now circulating in every part of Wales."
The Scottish government, which has brought an extra 1.5 million face masks to protect health and social care staff, hopes to have powers to enforce social distancing in place by the end of today.
Speaking at St Andrew's House in Edinburgh, Ms Sturgeon said people who break the rules could be subject to prohibition notices and liable for on-the-spot fines and prosecution.
"The police will continue to take a soft approach to enforcement", but they will have the power to act, she said.
Ms Sturgeon added that safeguards would be in place which would be reviewed every 21 days, and the new legislation would last a maximum of six months.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:49 Distressed mum-to-be issues virus warning
Scotland's chief medical officer, Catherine Calderwood, said between 40,000 to 50,000 people in the country may be infected with coronavirus.
"It has been very encouraging see the empty streets and shops and transport around Scotland. This is going to be a long haul and I encourage people as the weekend comes... to not relax those roles, to not be tempted to see other families from other households," she said.
It comes as south of the border, North Yorkshire police announced the force will be using checkpoints in the region to ask drivers if their journey is essential in a bid to prevent people from going outdoors.
Assistant Chief Constable Mike Walker said: "The new and significant restrictions announced by the prime minister on Monday evening spell out very clearly what each and every one of us must do to save lives. The message is clear and the warning stark. Stay at home, save lives.
"These are the lives of the people we know and love. Our partners, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, children, grandparents.
"You may never be in such a position again where your simple actions will lead directly to saving lives."
The force also said the checkpoints would be random and unannounced.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:31 'Outbreak could be worse than Italy's'
There is also a UK-wide push on increasing the number of ventilators that can be manufactured in time for the expected surge in coronavirus patients across the UK in around three weeks.
COVID-19 has overwhelmed well-resourced hospitals in northern Italy, alarming doctors in Britain.
The NHS has more than 8,000 ventilators, but the government says 30,000 will be needed.
The PM's spokesman said thousands of new ventilators will arrive in the coming weeks, with thousands more in the coming months, and the NHS will determine where they go based on "operational need".
He added all manufacturers turning their efforts to making ventilators must pass tests from expert clinicians and health regulators before purchases are made.
Billionaire entrepreneur Sir James Dyson said the government has ordered 10,000 ventilators from his company.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ministers are being urged to step-up testing for coronavirus, especially among health workers, so they can get back to work as soon as possible if they have already had the virus.
But Professor Chris Whitty, the UK's chief medical officer, has dismissed suggestions a coronavirus antibody test will be ready to buy online next week.
He said the accuracy of the tests needed to be properly tested before they were made available.
In a gesture of thanks to honour frontline NHS staff, everyone across the nation has been invited to join in a mass round of applause from their doorsteps, windows and balconies tonight at 8pm.


news--2020-03-26--Coronavirus: Higher education rushes to nurse NHS through crisis

Universities and colleges have donated thousands of pieces of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to NHS hospitals in an effort to ease shortages of safety equipment for doctors and nurses .
As well as sending supplies of equipment from mothballed laboratories to local hospitals , universities have also identified potential candidates who could potentially provide urgent supplies .
In response , the government has asked for procurement specialists to volunteer to help `` swamped '' civil servants negotiate with suppliers on behalf of the NHS .
Around 20 buyers from the higher education sector have offered to help in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sending spare supplies to local hospitals last week , prompting the London University Purchasing Consortium ( LUPC ) to coordinate a wider effort .
They asked anyone with spare supplies to contact the Cabinet Office COVID-19 response team and this week called for volunteers .
In a letter to university buying teams LUPC said : `` The NHS needs a massive supply of PPE and the Cabinet Office is swamped with potential sources .
`` They are looking for volunteer staff , preferably with PPE procurement experience , to negotiate with suppliers from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ form so that the Cabinet Office team can place orders .
PPE experience is not essential - they need professional buyers . ''
Don Bowman , director of the LUPC , told Sky News : `` Through our contacts in procurement we have been able to identify alternative sources of some of the equipment the NHS needs .
The hospitality sector for example has been buying hand sanitiser for several months but is now not in a position to use it .
`` Likewise the construction industry has supplies of face masks they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So we have passed these on to the Cabinet Office , as well as those higher education contacts who have large quantities of PPE .
`` For those with smaller quantities of PPE we have advised them to pass them directly to their local hospital .
Aston University was perhaps the first to start doing this .
`` I am extremely proud of the sector and the way it has stepped up , with everyone helping together and doing what we can . ''
NHS workers have consistently complained that they do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wave of COVID-19 patients without risking transmission of the virus to them and colleagues .
Nurses and doctors have resorted to making their own protective aprons and hats from plastic bags , and several have posted pictures of themselves in what they consider ineffective protective equipment .
Among the items in short supply are : face masks , eye protection , respirators , alcohol hand sanitiser gel , surgical theatre gowns , long-sleeve plastic aprons , disposable gloves in medium and large sizes , plastic shoe covers and disposable hygienic bags .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an insight into the challenge facing civil servants in tackling the massive government-wide effort to respond to the coronavirus epidemic .
On Monday , the Department of Health said `` millions '' of PPE kits had been delivered to NHS Trusts across the country but shortages remain in hospitals , hospices , care homes and among other essential workers .
More than 500,000 people have volunteered to join a national effort to help the NHS and assist vulnerable people isolated at home .
A government spokesperson said : `` We are working around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wider social care sector the equipment and support they need to tackle this outbreak .
`` Over the last two days , more than 15 million facemasks have been delivered to the frontline and yesterday 's deliveries included 24.6 million gloves and 1.9 million eye protectors .
`` The full weight of the government is behind this effort and we are working closely with industry , social care providers , the NHS , and the army so all our NHS and care staff have the protection they deserve . ''

Universities and colleges have donated thousands of pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) to NHS hospitals in an effort to ease shortages of safety equipment for doctors and nurses.
As well as sending supplies of equipment from mothballed laboratories to local hospitals, universities have also identified potential candidates who could potentially provide urgent supplies.
In response, the government has asked for procurement specialists to volunteer to help "swamped" civil servants negotiate with suppliers on behalf of the NHS. Around 20 buyers from the higher education sector have offered to help in just 24 hours.
Image: Demand for protective equipment is said to be at record levels globally
Some universities began sending spare supplies to local hospitals last week, prompting the London University Purchasing Consortium (LUPC) to coordinate a wider effort.
They asked anyone with spare supplies to contact the Cabinet Office COVID-19 response team and this week called for volunteers.
In a letter to university buying teams LUPC said: "The NHS needs a massive supply of PPE and the Cabinet Office is swamped with potential sources.
"They are looking for volunteer staff, preferably with PPE procurement experience, to negotiate with suppliers from home and then pass on a simple form so that the Cabinet Office team can place orders. PPE experience is not essential - they need professional buyers."
Don Bowman, director of the LUPC, told Sky News: "Through our contacts in procurement we have been able to identify alternative sources of some of the equipment the NHS needs. The hospitality sector for example has been buying hand sanitiser for several months but is now not in a position to use it.
"Likewise the construction industry has supplies of face masks they may not be able to use. So we have passed these on to the Cabinet Office, as well as those higher education contacts who have large quantities of PPE.
Advertisement
"For those with smaller quantities of PPE we have advised them to pass them directly to their local hospital. Aston University was perhaps the first to start doing this.
"I am extremely proud of the sector and the way it has stepped up, with everyone helping together and doing what we can."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 Putin dons hazmat suit to visit virus hospital
NHS workers have consistently complained that they do not have sufficient PPE to safely treat the wave of COVID-19 patients without risking transmission of the virus to them and colleagues.
Nurses and doctors have resorted to making their own protective aprons and hats from plastic bags, and several have posted pictures of themselves in what they consider ineffective protective equipment.
Among the items in short supply are: face masks, eye protection, respirators, alcohol hand sanitiser gel, surgical theatre gowns, long-sleeve plastic aprons, disposable gloves in medium and large sizes, plastic shoe covers and disposable hygienic bags.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:21 Companies respond to ventilator plea
The call for volunteers in specialist procurement gives an insight into the challenge facing civil servants in tackling the massive government-wide effort to respond to the coronavirus epidemic.
On Monday, the Department of Health said "millions" of PPE kits had been delivered to NHS Trusts across the country but shortages remain in hospitals, hospices, care homes and among other essential workers.
More than 500,000 people have volunteered to join a national effort to help the NHS and assist vulnerable people isolated at home.
A government spokesperson said: "We are working around the clock to give the NHS and the wider social care sector the equipment and support they need to tackle this outbreak.
"Over the last two days, more than 15 million facemasks have been delivered to the frontline and yesterday's deliveries included 24.6 million gloves and 1.9 million eye protectors.
"The full weight of the government is behind this effort and we are working closely with industry, social care providers, the NHS, and the army so all our NHS and care staff have the protection they deserve."


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: PM in 'early phase of his recovery' as Britons told lockdown must continue

Boris Johnson appears to be out of danger at the start of an Easter weekend that ministers claim will be critical in the battle against coronavirus .
After three nights in intensive care , the prime minister is now back in a hospital ward after a gradual improvement in his condition that has left him in `` extremely good spirits '' .
Downing Street announced Mr Johnson 's move out of intensive care shortly after his stand-in , Dominic Raab , told the nation it is too early to lift the coronavirus lockdown .
With temperatures set to soar over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned they are ready to take action against those who flout rules designed to slow the spread of COVID-19 .
Speaking after chairing a COBRA meeting , Mr Raab declared : `` We 're not done yet .
After all the efforts everybody has made , after all the sacrifices we 've made , let 's not ruin it now . ''
The government has launched a huge Easter holiday publicity blitz urging the public to stay at home , not visit friends or family and observe the lockdown rules over the weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Launching the campaign , a spokesman said : `` We are at a crucial moment in preventing further transmission of coronavirus , and so it is vital that we continue following the government 's guidance to stay at home , protect the NHS , and save lives . ''
Earlier , Number 10 posted a tweet in Mr Johnson 's name urging : `` This Easter , do n't go and see your grandad .
Instead keep in touch by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' There were concerns the government 's message would be undermined by the disclosure that a key Johnson ally in defending the lockdown , Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick , drove 40 miles to visit his parents last weekend .
However , a source told Sky News : `` Mr Jenrick went to drop off essential medicines and food to his parents who are self-isolating due to their age .
He followed guidance and left the items outside their home . ''
The prime minister was admitted to hospital on Sunday evening and moved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prompting alarm at the heart of government and among his family members .
Announcing his move out of intensive care on Thursday , a Downing Street spokesman said : `` The prime minister has been moved from intensive care back to the ward , where he will receive close monitoring during the early phase of his recovery .
He is in extremely good spirits . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The news came as a massive relief to cabinet colleagues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Symonds , who broke her silence on the PM 's illness by tweeting a jubilant message of gratitude to the NHS .
Among the many messages of goodwill from the UK and abroad , US President Donald Trump tweeted : `` Great news : Prime Minister Boris Johnson has just moved out of intensive care .
Get well Boris !
!
! ''
But while there is relief that Mr Johnson is now out of danger , there are fears in Whitehall - after Number 10 spoke of `` the early phase of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be at least a month before he is back at work .
Speaking at the daily Downing Street news conference , before Mr Johnson left intensive care , Mr Raab had said the prime minister was continuing `` to make positive steps forward '' .
But asked if he had spoken to Mr Johnson since taking over his responsibilities , the foreign secretary said : `` Not yet .
I think it 's important particularly while he 's in intensive care to let him focus on the recovery .
`` We in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On keeping the lockdown in force , Mr Raab said : `` It 's been almost three weeks and we 're starting to see the impact of the sacrifices we 've all made .
`` But the deaths are still rising and we have n't yet reached the peak of the virus .
So it 's still too early to lift the measures that we put in place .
`` We must stick to the plan and we must continue to be guided by the science . ''
And urging people to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` With the Easter bank holiday coming up , I normally spend it with my two boys , their grandparents , doing an Easter egg hunt .
`` I know there 's going to be lots of people who would normally be planning a family get together or just a day in the sunshine with friends and loved ones .
`` Unfortunately , right now , we just ca n't do those sorts of things .
And I 'm really sorry about that . ''
Reinforcing the stay at home message , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was important to keep the lockdown in place .
`` The measures that everybody has taken , the difficult things that we 've all had to do , are making a difference , they 're making a big difference , '' he said .
`` We know that the social distancing is working and we know that people are doing what they 're supposed to do and we need to keep doing that .
`` And the reason we need to keep doing that is because it stops the transmission of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that that is already happening . ''

Boris Johnson appears to be out of danger at the start of an Easter weekend that ministers claim will be critical in the battle against coronavirus.
After three nights in intensive care, the prime minister is now back in a hospital ward after a gradual improvement in his condition that has left him in "extremely good spirits".
Downing Street announced Mr Johnson's move out of intensive care shortly after his stand-in, Dominic Raab, told the nation it is too early to lift the coronavirus lockdown.
Image: Boris Johnson is out of intensive care but remains in St Thomas' Hospital
With temperatures set to soar over the Easter weekend, police forces have warned they are ready to take action against those who flout rules designed to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Speaking after chairing a COBRA meeting, Mr Raab declared: "We're not done yet. After all the efforts everybody has made, after all the sacrifices we've made, let's not ruin it now."
The government has launched a huge Easter holiday publicity blitz urging the public to stay at home, not visit friends or family and observe the lockdown rules over the weekend.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Launching the campaign, a spokesman said: "We are at a crucial moment in preventing further transmission of coronavirus, and so it is vital that we continue following the government's guidance to stay at home, protect the NHS, and save lives."
Earlier, Number 10 posted a tweet in Mr Johnson's name urging: "This Easter, don't go and see your grandad. Instead keep in touch by video call or over the phone."
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:30 Patients with COVID-19 speak from hospital
There were concerns the government's message would be undermined by the disclosure that a key Johnson ally in defending the lockdown, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick, drove 40 miles to visit his parents last weekend.
However, a source told Sky News: "Mr Jenrick went to drop off essential medicines and food to his parents who are self-isolating due to their age. He followed guidance and left the items outside their home."
The prime minister was admitted to hospital on Sunday evening and moved to intensive care on Monday evening, prompting alarm at the heart of government and among his family members.
Announcing his move out of intensive care on Thursday, a Downing Street spokesman said: "The prime minister has been moved from intensive care back to the ward, where he will receive close monitoring during the early phase of his recovery. He is in extremely good spirits."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The news came as a massive relief to cabinet colleagues and also to his pregnant fiancee Carrie Symonds, who broke her silence on the PM's illness by tweeting a jubilant message of gratitude to the NHS.
Among the many messages of goodwill from the UK and abroad, US President Donald Trump tweeted: "Great news: Prime Minister Boris Johnson has just moved out of intensive care. Get well Boris!!!"
But while there is relief that Mr Johnson is now out of danger, there are fears in Whitehall - after Number 10 spoke of "the early phase of his recovery" - that it will be at least a month before he is back at work.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:33 'Please stay home this bank holiday weekend'
Speaking at the daily Downing Street news conference, before Mr Johnson left intensive care, Mr Raab had said the prime minister was continuing "to make positive steps forward".
But asked if he had spoken to Mr Johnson since taking over his responsibilities, the foreign secretary said: "Not yet. I think it's important particularly while he's in intensive care to let him focus on the recovery.
"We in the government have got this covered."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:19 Clapping for carers around the UK
On keeping the lockdown in force, Mr Raab said: "It's been almost three weeks and we're starting to see the impact of the sacrifices we've all made.
"But the deaths are still rising and we haven't yet reached the peak of the virus. So it's still too early to lift the measures that we put in place.
"We must stick to the plan and we must continue to be guided by the science."
Image: A government advert warns people to stay home during the Easter weekend
And urging people to stay home this weekend, Mr Raab said: "With the Easter bank holiday coming up, I normally spend it with my two boys, their grandparents, doing an Easter egg hunt.
"I know there's going to be lots of people who would normally be planning a family get together or just a day in the sunshine with friends and loved ones.
"Unfortunately, right now, we just can't do those sorts of things. And I'm really sorry about that."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:20 Trump reacts to PM leaving intensive care
Reinforcing the stay at home message, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said it was important to keep the lockdown in place.
"The measures that everybody has taken, the difficult things that we've all had to do, are making a difference, they're making a big difference," he said.
"We know that the social distancing is working and we know that people are doing what they're supposed to do and we need to keep doing that.
"And the reason we need to keep doing that is because it stops the transmission of the virus in the community and we know that that is already happening."


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: New UK deaths surpass Italy and Spain's worst daily totals

Another 980 patients have died in the UK after contracting coronavirus - surpassing Spain and Italy 's worst recorded daily totals .
During the daily coronavirus briefing , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said a total of 8,958 people have now died in hospital .
He added that yesterday a further 5,706 people tested positive for COVID-19 and the number of people in hospital who have been diagnosed with the virus now totals 19,304 .
980 tops Spain and Italy 's highest daily number of deaths , which were 961 and 919 respectively .
Among England 's 866 new victims were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conditions .
The patients were aged between 27 and 100 years old .
Earlier , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the number of people with COVID-19 who have died in Scotland had risen by 48 - taking its total to 495 .
In Wales , 29 further deaths took the number to 315 .
Friday 's figure from Northern Ireland was 10 additional deaths - meaning the number there stands at 92 .
Britons have been urged to stay inside for the duration of the lockdown despite good weather forecast for the Bank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advised not to travel to see relatives for Easter .
John Apter , national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales , said the `` vast majority '' of people are following the law but a minority are either `` genuinely confused by the guidance or they 're completely oblivious to the dangers '' .
`` Policing is a tough job at the best of times but in some areas it 's making that difficult job even more difficult , '' he told Sky News .
`` I would beg the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and stay at home , unless you have to venture out for those essential journeys . ''
David Lewis , deputy chief constable of Dorset Police , also told Sky News officers will be stationed on arterial roads to check people are n't visiting holiday homes or beauty spots this weekend .
`` My guidance would be : If you have to ask yourself 'is this an essential journey ' then it probably is n't , so turn round and stay home , '' he said .
The lockdown - which is due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looks likely to be extended .
Stand-in prime minister Dominic Raab announced yesterday enforced social distancing measures `` will have to stay in place '' until there is evidence that `` clearly shows we 've moved beyond the peak '' of the COVID-19 outbreak .

Another 980 patients have died in the UK after contracting coronavirus - surpassing Spain and Italy's worst recorded daily totals.
During the daily coronavirus briefing, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said a total of 8,958 people have now died in hospital.
He added that yesterday a further 5,706 people tested positive for COVID-19 and the number of people in hospital who have been diagnosed with the virus now totals 19,304.
Image: The lockdown looks set to be extended next week
980 tops Spain and Italy's highest daily number of deaths, which were 961 and 919 respectively.
Among England's 866 new victims were 56 who had no known underlying health conditions. The patients were aged between 27 and 100 years old.
Earlier, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the number of people with COVID-19 who have died in Scotland had risen by 48 - taking its total to 495.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:21 Police apologise for 'ill-informed' decision
In Wales, 29 further deaths took the number to 315.
Friday's figure from Northern Ireland was 10 additional deaths - meaning the number there stands at 92.
Britons have been urged to stay inside for the duration of the lockdown despite good weather forecast for the Bank Holiday weekend.
Advertisement
Families have also been advised not to travel to see relatives for Easter.
John Apter, national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said the "vast majority" of people are following the law but a minority are either "genuinely confused by the guidance or they're completely oblivious to the dangers".
"Policing is a tough job at the best of times but in some areas it's making that difficult job even more difficult," he told Sky News.
"I would beg the public - please, take the advice and stay at home, unless you have to venture out for those essential journeys."
Image: Police are urging people to stay at home
David Lewis, deputy chief constable of Dorset Police, also told Sky News officers will be stationed on arterial roads to check people aren't visiting holiday homes or beauty spots this weekend.
"My guidance would be: If you have to ask yourself 'is this an essential journey' then it probably isn't, so turn round and stay home," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:33 'Please stay home this bank holiday weekend'
The lockdown - which is due to be reviewed by next Thursday - looks likely to be extended.
Stand-in prime minister Dominic Raab announced yesterday enforced social distancing measures "will have to stay in place" until there is evidence that "clearly shows we've moved beyond the peak" of the COVID-19 outbreak.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Clapham Common park benches taped off by council

A London council has been criticised for taping off its benches during the coronavirus lockdown .
Lambeth Council has blocked off its benches and rotunda in Clapham Common , southwest London , in a bid to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 illness , the disease caused by coronavirus .
But the move has come under fire from residents , who are concerned about elderly and vulnerable people not having anywhere to sit if they need to rest .
Matthew Lesh , a resident in the area , tweeted : `` The benches at Clapham Common have now been tied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's ] totally absurd .
Sitting on a park bench , metres away from others , does not spread this virus .
`` @ lambeth_council should be ashamed of themselves - one of life 's little joys unnecessarily restricted . ''
Benali Hamdache , co-chairman of LGBTIQA+ Greens and London Assembly candidate for the Green Party , said he felt the move was a `` heavy handed '' approach .
He told Sky News : `` It is definitely something that concerns me .
I previously sprained my ankle and a public bench @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get home that day .
`` My partner also has a chronic foot problem and getting out and about with it before being diagnosed was a nightmare , so having benches really helped .
`` A lot of vulnerable people are having to rely on themselves on the exercise and the food they need and it can be really hard getting around without them .
`` My biggest concern is the people who are most likely to flout the social distancing rules are not going to be the people put off by this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who actually need the benches are the people who are most likely to find themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place . ''
Several people also praised the move , raising concerns about the hygiene of the benches .
One man said in a tweet : `` Someone sits on the bench .
Touches the arm .
Walks away .
Someone else sits on the bench .
Touches the arm .
Walks away .
Repeat .
Eventually someone with the virus touches the arm .
Next person touches the arm .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is why use of benches etc not a good idea . ''
Residents in the capital have previously been criticised by the police and local councils for flouting social distancing rules implemented by the government during the lockdown .
Last Sunday Lambeth Council closed Brockwell Park - which is a mile and a half away from Clapham Common - after 3,000 people visited .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In response to the benches being taped off , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hard surfaces , such as benches and play equipment , could harbour the virus .
`` For public health reasons , they have been fenced off to minimise the potential transmission of the virus so that people can enjoy Lambeth 's award-winning parks safely , provided they follow the rules on social distancing and responsible use . ''

A London council has been criticised for taping off its benches during the coronavirus lockdown.
Lambeth Council has blocked off its benches and rotunda in Clapham Common, southwest London, in a bid to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 illness, the disease caused by coronavirus.
But the move has come under fire from residents, who are concerned about elderly and vulnerable people not having anywhere to sit if they need to rest.
Image: Others say they support the move to close the benches. Pic: Twitter @Matthewlesh
Matthew Lesh, a resident in the area, tweeted: "The benches at Clapham Common have now been tied up in hazard tape. [It's] totally absurd. Sitting on a park bench, metres away from others, does not spread this virus.
"@lambeth_council should be ashamed of themselves - one of life's little joys unnecessarily restricted."
Benali Hamdache, co-chairman of LGBTIQA+ Greens and London Assembly candidate for the Green Party, said he felt the move was a "heavy handed" approach.
He told Sky News: "It is definitely something that concerns me. I previously sprained my ankle and a public bench was the only thing that helped me get home that day.
"My partner also has a chronic foot problem and getting out and about with it before being diagnosed was a nightmare, so having benches really helped.
Image: An empty Clapham Common is seen with the new restrictions in place for walkers. Pic: Twitter @Matthewlesh
"A lot of vulnerable people are having to rely on themselves on the exercise and the food they need and it can be really hard getting around without them.
Advertisement
"My biggest concern is the people who are most likely to flout the social distancing rules are not going to be the people put off by this tape. It will be the people who actually need the benches are the people who are most likely to find themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place."
Image: The rotunda in Clapham Common has also been shut off. Pic: Twitter @matthewlesh
Several people also praised the move, raising concerns about the hygiene of the benches.
One man said in a tweet: "Someone sits on the bench. Touches the arm. Walks away. Someone else sits on the bench. Touches the arm. Walks away. Repeat. Eventually someone with the virus touches the arm. Next person touches the arm. Picks up the virus. Repeat. This is why use of benches etc not a good idea."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:21 Police tell family not to go in garden
Residents in the capital have previously been criticised by the police and local councils for flouting social distancing rules implemented by the government during the lockdown.
Last Sunday Lambeth Council closed Brockwell Park - which is a mile and a half away from Clapham Common - after 3,000 people visited.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In response to the benches being taped off, a Lambeth Council spokesman said: "Hard surfaces, such as benches and play equipment, could harbour the virus.
"For public health reasons, they have been fenced off to minimise the potential transmission of the virus so that people can enjoy Lambeth's award-winning parks safely, provided they follow the rules on social distancing and responsible use."


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Downing Street backs minister who travelled 150 miles to 'family home' during lockdown

Downing Street has backed a minister who travelled 150 miles from London to a property he owns in rural Herefordshire during the coronavirus lockdown .
Days after chairing a government news conference in Westminster to reinforce the `` stay at home '' message , Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick appeared on Sky News via video link from the seventeenth century manor house he owns in the hamlet of Eye .
This is despite the Nottinghamshire MP 's website stating his family live 120 miles away in his constituency of Newark as well as in London .
Government guidance on essential travel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes and must `` remain in their primary residence '' .
But the PM 's official spokesman said the minister had set out his reasons for the journey and `` we 're confident he complied with the social distancing rules '' .
The spokesman said Mr Jenrick has said himself that his wife and children consider their Herefordshire home to be their family home .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Asked about ministers commuting to and from London , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ministers have been told to work from home wherever possible , and not make unnecessary journeys .
`` As part of the coronavirus response there will be occasions when ministers have no option but to work from Whitehall .
`` In the event this is required , and the rest of their household is living elsewhere , it 's not an unnecessary journey for them to travel to rejoin their family . ''
Asked if it was Number 10 's view that Mr Jenrick had committed no wrongdoing , the spokesman replied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out the reasons and we 're confident he complied [ with social distancing ] . ''
Mr Jenrick told Sky News he considers the Herefordshire property to be his family home and that his wife and children `` were there before any restrictions on travel were announced '' .
He went on to say `` once I was able to work from home it was right that I went home to do so and be with my wife and also help care for my three young children '' .
It is understood that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spend their working week in London but live in Herefordshire whenever possible .
Sky News has asked Mr Jenrick for clarification over where his children go to school and where he pays his council tax .
The minister has also defended visiting his elderly parents 40 miles away during the lockdown .
Mr Jenrick explained that he was delivering medicine and other essential items to them as they are self-isolating at home due to the outbreak of COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
Mr Jenrick added that he had respected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government guidelines say you should not visit anyone who lives outside your home , including elderly relatives , but you are allowed to `` leave your house to help them , for example by dropping shopping or medication at their door '' .
Mr Jenrick 's visit was revealed by The Guardian , which quoted a witness as saying they saw the minister visiting his parents ' Shropshire house at the weekend .
Responding to the report , Mr Jenrick wrote on Twitter : `` For clarity - my parents asked me to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` They are both self-isolating due to age and my father 's medical condition and I respected social distancing rules . ''
He included a link to The Guardian 's story in his tweet .
The head of Public Health England has said Mr Jenrick appeared to act `` within the guidelines '' .
`` I ca n't comment on Mr Jenrick , it sounds as if what he did was within one of the four guidelines to me , but others will obviously have to think about that more , '' Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programme .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds also told the BBC it was `` very important for public confidence '' that Mr Jenrick explained himself , but said if he had delivered medicine to his parents , `` clearly ... it fits within the four exceptions '' .
Mr Jenrick said he would be remaining at the family home until government advice changes or he is needed at Westminster .
Former Nottinghamshire Conservative MP Anna @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selfish arrogance '' and said ministers must `` practise what they preach '' .
Labour 's shadow communities secretary Steve Reed called on the cabinet minister to `` explain why this journey was unavoidable or consider his position '' .
His wife Michal Berkner is a partner at the London branch of international law firm Cooley LLP and the couple own a townhouse within walking distance of Westminster .
Mr Jenrick also rents a property in his constituency of Newark where he stays when on constituency business .
Expenses receipts lodged by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £23,000 for rental accommodation between April 2018 and March 2019 .
Before becoming an MP in 2014 , Mr Jenrick worked in business and law and was chairman of the Conservative Association in North Herefordshire .

Downing Street has backed a minister who travelled 150 miles from London to a property he owns in rural Herefordshire during the coronavirus lockdown.
Days after chairing a government news conference in Westminster to reinforce the "stay at home" message, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick appeared on Sky News via video link from the seventeenth century manor house he owns in the hamlet of Eye.
This is despite the Nottinghamshire MP's website stating his family live 120 miles away in his constituency of Newark as well as in London.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:33 'Please stay home this bank holiday weekend'
Government guidance on essential travel says the public should not visit second homes and must "remain in their primary residence".
But the PM's official spokesman said the minister had set out his reasons for the journey and "we're confident he complied with the social distancing rules".
The spokesman said Mr Jenrick has said himself that his wife and children consider their Herefordshire home to be their family home.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Asked about ministers commuting to and from London, he said: "Like everybody else, ministers have been told to work from home wherever possible, and not make unnecessary journeys.
"As part of the coronavirus response there will be occasions when ministers have no option but to work from Whitehall.
Advertisement
"In the event this is required, and the rest of their household is living elsewhere, it's not an unnecessary journey for them to travel to rejoin their family."
Image: Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick's London house
Asked if it was Number 10's view that Mr Jenrick had committed no wrongdoing, the spokesman replied: "Correct. He's set out the reasons and we're confident he complied [with social distancing]."
Mr Jenrick told Sky News he considers the Herefordshire property to be his family home and that his wife and children "were there before any restrictions on travel were announced".
He went on to say "once I was able to work from home it was right that I went home to do so and be with my wife and also help care for my three young children".
Image: Mr Jenrick said he considered his family home is the one in Herefordshire
It is understood that the housing secretary and his wife usually spend their working week in London but live in Herefordshire whenever possible.
Sky News has asked Mr Jenrick for clarification over where his children go to school and where he pays his council tax.
The minister has also defended visiting his elderly parents 40 miles away during the lockdown.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:30 Inside one of London's worst-hit hospitals
Mr Jenrick explained that he was delivering medicine and other essential items to them as they are self-isolating at home due to the outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
Mr Jenrick added that he had respected the government's social distancing guidelines.
Government guidelines say you should not visit anyone who lives outside your home, including elderly relatives, but you are allowed to "leave your house to help them, for example by dropping shopping or medication at their door".
Mr Jenrick's visit was revealed by The Guardian, which quoted a witness as saying they saw the minister visiting his parents' Shropshire house at the weekend.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:25 Police warning to those who flout lockdown
Responding to the report, Mr Jenrick wrote on Twitter: "For clarity - my parents asked me to deliver some essentials - including medicines.
"They are both self-isolating due to age and my father's medical condition and I respected social distancing rules."
He included a link to The Guardian's story in his tweet.
The head of Public Health England has said Mr Jenrick appeared to act "within the guidelines".
"I can't comment on Mr Jenrick, it sounds as if what he did was within one of the four guidelines to me, but others will obviously have to think about that more," Paul Cosford told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.
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 Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds also told the BBC it was "very important for public confidence" that Mr Jenrick explained himself, but said if he had delivered medicine to his parents, "clearly... it fits within the four exceptions".
Mr Jenrick said he would be remaining at the family home until government advice changes or he is needed at Westminster.
Former Nottinghamshire Conservative MP Anna Soubry accused the housing secretary of "selfish arrogance" and said ministers must "practise what they preach".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:09 The unsung heroes facing customers every day
Labour's shadow communities secretary Steve Reed called on the cabinet minister to "explain why this journey was unavoidable or consider his position".
His wife Michal Berkner is a partner at the London branch of international law firm Cooley LLP and the couple own a townhouse within walking distance of Westminster.
Mr Jenrick also rents a property in his constituency of Newark where he stays when on constituency business.
Expenses receipts lodged by the cabinet minister show he claimed more than £23,000 for rental accommodation between April 2018 and March 2019.
Before becoming an MP in 2014, Mr Jenrick worked in business and law and was chairman of the Conservative Association in North Herefordshire.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: New Jersey residents told to keep 'one Springsteen' away from others

The US state of New Jersey is using one of its most famous sons to help enforce social distancing rules .
It is urging residents to keep at least `` one Springsteen '' of space between themselves and others during the coronavirus pandemic .
The Boss , as the veteran rocker is known , was born in Long Branch , New Jersey , in 1949 .
In a tweet , the New Jersey government showed a picture him alongside a scale going up to six feet .
In the image , Springsteen is longer than the scale - suggesting that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is to keep two metres away from others .
That is just over six-and-a-half feet .
: :Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker There is only one problem though : an online search shows Springsteen is five feet ten .
Were you to use the real Bruce as a measurement , therefore , `` one Springsteen '' would not be enough .
A Twitter user who pointed this out said the rocker would need to be holding `` a nice Italian sub '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heritage .
Someone else said he measured `` all things in Springsteens '' .
And a third person pondered : `` How many Bon Jovis is that ? ''

The US state of New Jersey is using one of its most famous sons to help enforce social distancing rules.
It is urging residents to keep at least "one Springsteen" of space between themselves and others during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Boss, as the veteran rocker is known, was born in Long Branch, New Jersey, in 1949.
Image: Springsteen on stage in New York in December
In a tweet, the New Jersey government showed a picture him alongside a scale going up to six feet.
In the image, Springsteen is longer than the scale - suggesting that the advice, as in the UK, is to keep two metres away from others. That is just over six-and-a-half feet.
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 Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
There is only one problem though: an online search shows Springsteen is five feet ten.
Were you to use the real Bruce as a measurement, therefore, "one Springsteen" would not be enough.
A Twitter user who pointed this out said the rocker would need to be holding "a nice Italian sub" - possibly because Springsteen has some Italian heritage.
Advertisement
Someone else said he measured "all things in Springsteens".
And a third person pondered: "How many Bon Jovis is that?"


news--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: McDonald's to reopen 15 restaurants for delivery later this month

McDonald 's is planning to reopen some of its restaurants in the UK for the first time since the coronavirus lockdown was introduced in March , the fast food chain has announced .
From 13 May , customers will be able to order a delivery from 15 restaurants across the country - the locations of which will be revealed by the company next week .
A limited menu will be in place and breakfast options will not be available for the time being to allow for smaller teams to follow social distancing guidelines in the kitchens .
In a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK and Ireland Paul Pomroy said `` controlled tests '' had been carried out in the past week to ensure the restaurants could open safely amid the coronavirus pandemic .
He said perspex screens and floor markings had been introduced in specific areas of the restaurants , while protective equipment , including non-medical grade face masks , would be given to employees .
Each employee will also be asked if they are fit to work and will have their temperatures taken before starting each shift .
Social distancing measures will also be employed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company 's delivery partners , Mr Pomroy said .
To maintain high standards of cleanliness , Mr Pomroy added that all staff would be provided with updated training , and the restaurants would undergo a deep clean before reopening .
News of the reopening comes a day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK had passed the peak of the COVID-19 epidemic , and promised to lay out his details for an exit strategy from the lockdown next week .
The reopening of the fast food chain would be a `` gradual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adding that he could acknowledge it would `` be different as we all adjust to this new normal '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He added : `` Rest assured we are working hard to reopen more restaurants , but I am adamant this must be at the right pace with the wellbeing of our employees , suppliers and customers front of mind . ''
What will the limited menu offer ?

McDonald's is planning to reopen some of its restaurants in the UK for the first time since the coronavirus lockdown was introduced in March, the fast food chain has announced.
From 13 May, customers will be able to order a delivery from 15 restaurants across the country - the locations of which will be revealed by the company next week.
A limited menu will be in place and breakfast options will not be available for the time being to allow for smaller teams to follow social distancing guidelines in the kitchens.
In a statement, McDonald's chief executive for the UK and Ireland Paul Pomroy said "controlled tests" had been carried out in the past week to ensure the restaurants could open safely amid the coronavirus pandemic.
He said perspex screens and floor markings had been introduced in specific areas of the restaurants, while protective equipment, including non-medical grade face masks, would be given to employees.
Each employee will also be asked if they are fit to work and will have their temperatures taken before starting each shift.
Social distancing measures will also be employed on both McDonald's staff and the company's delivery partners, Mr Pomroy said.
To maintain high standards of cleanliness, Mr Pomroy added that all staff would be provided with updated training, and the restaurants would undergo a deep clean before reopening.
News of the reopening comes a day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK had passed the peak of the COVID-19 epidemic, and promised to lay out his details for an exit strategy from the lockdown next week.
Advertisement
The reopening of the fast food chain would be a "gradual" move, Mr Pomroy said, adding that he could acknowledge it would "be different as we all adjust to this new normal".
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 Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He added: "Rest assured we are working hard to reopen more restaurants, but I am adamant this must be at the right pace with the wellbeing of our employees, suppliers and customers front of mind."
What will the limited menu offer?
Main menu:
Cheeseburger
Hamburger
Double cheeseburger
Big Mac
Quarter Pounder with Cheese
McChicken Sandwich
Filet-O-Fish
Chicken McNuggets
Chicken Selects
Sides and desserts:
Fries
Mozzarella Dippers
Core McFlurry (Oreo, Maltesers, Smarties)
Fruit Bag
Drinks:
Coke, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Fanta, Sprite
Oasis
Black Coffee
White Coffee
Latte
Cappuccino
Espresso
Flat White
Tea
Orange Juice
Fruit Shoot
Water
Happy Meal Water
Happy Meal variants:
Happy Meal - Hamburger
Happy Meal - Cheeseburger
Happy Meal - Four Nuggets


news--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: Greggs British Bake Off? Pasty chain may not reopen stores after all

Greggs has postponed plans to reopen some of its stores next week over fears it could lead to crowds .
The bakery chain - renowned for its vegan sausage rolls - shut all of its 2,050 outlets when the UK went into coronavirus lockdown at the end of March , even though takeaway services were allowed to stay open .
Earlier this week , Greggs had said it planned to reopen 20 shops in the Newcastle area from next Monday in a trial to see if it can operate effectively with social distancing measures as the COVID-19 restrictions are eased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a spokesman for the company said : `` Due to significant interest in our 20-shop trial , and the risk that excessive numbers of customers may plan to visit Greggs , we will now initially operate these trials behind closed doors in order to effectively test our new operational safety measures .
`` We will continue to review this and will invite walk-in customers into our shops only when we can be confident of doing so in the controlled manner we intended . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spreaker Greggs had hoped if the trial was successful it could move to phase two , with 700 shops reopening .
However , it had said this would only happen if the government moved first to relax the lockdown , with the reopening of schools and more people being allowed to return to work .
The company was working on the basis that schools would reopen on 1 June , allowing the phase two shops to reopen on 8 June .
The final phase of its initial plan was to open all shops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 July , which is when the government 's job retention furlough scheme is currently due to end .

Greggs has postponed plans to reopen some of its stores next week over fears it could lead to crowds.
The bakery chain - renowned for its vegan sausage rolls - shut all of its 2,050 outlets when the UK went into coronavirus lockdown at the end of March, even though takeaway services were allowed to stay open.
Earlier this week, Greggs had said it planned to reopen 20 shops in the Newcastle area from next Monday in a trial to see if it can operate effectively with social distancing measures as the COVID-19 restrictions are eased.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:09 The process of getting back to work
However, in a rethink, a spokesman for the company said: "Due to significant interest in our 20-shop trial, and the risk that excessive numbers of customers may plan to visit Greggs, we will now initially operate these trials behind closed doors in order to effectively test our new operational safety measures.
"We will continue to review this and will invite walk-in customers into our shops only when we can be confident of doing so in the controlled manner we intended."
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 Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Greggs had hoped if the trial was successful it could move to phase two, with 700 shops reopening.
However, it had said this would only happen if the government moved first to relax the lockdown, with the reopening of schools and more people being allowed to return to work.
The company was working on the basis that schools would reopen on 1 June, allowing the phase two shops to reopen on 8 June.
Advertisement
The final phase of its initial plan was to open all shops with new operational measures in place by 1 July, which is when the government's job retention furlough scheme is currently due to end.


news--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: Number 10 says face coverings have 'weak but positive effect' in slowing COVID-19

There is evidence face coverings have a `` weak but positive effect '' in reducing transmission of the coronavirus , Downing Street has said .
A spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said ministers are still considering what guidance to issue to the public during the COVID-19 lockdown .
Experts have argued coverings are unlikely to prevent someone contracting the coronavirus , but say it may reduce the number of infected people who are not showing symptoms from spreading the virus .
NHS England has announced 352 new deaths of people who tested positive for COVID-19 , bringing the total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in England to 20,483 .
In Scotland there have been a further 40 deaths ( taking the total to 1,515 ) , while there have been 17 more deaths in Wales ( 925 ) and 18 more in Northern Ireland ( 365 total ) .
Asked about face coverings at the daily Westminster briefing for journalists , the PM 's spokesman said : `` Ministers are still considering how we move forward with face coverings in terms of the precise advice which we give to the public and once that 's ready we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have received based on the science shows a weak but positive effect in reducing transmission of coronavirus from asymptomatic members of the public where social distancing is n't possible .
`` What ministers need to consider is how best to produce advice for the public on the next steps and that work is still ongoing . ''
It comes after the PM said face coverings will be `` useful '' when lockdown restrictions are eased to `` give people confidence they can go back to work '' .
On Thursday , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SAGE [ the government 's scientific advisory group ] is saying , what I certainly agree with , is that as part of coming out of the lockdown , I do think face coverings will be useful .
`` Both for epidemiological reasons but , also , for giving people confidence that they can go back to work .
`` You 're going to be hearing more about that and that kind of thing next week . ''
It is understood that ministers are not considering recommending people use medical-quality masks , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What kind of materials are advisable to use for such coverings is one of the issues the government is considering .
On Tuesday , the Scottish government issued new advice saying that people should wear face coverings in shops and on public transport .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon did not make their use mandatory , conceding the evidence over their use is `` still limited '' .
But she said there were benefits in wearing coverings to reduce transmission from individuals who are not yet displaying symptoms .
Asked that same day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adopted across the UK , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the government 's position had not changed and that there was `` weak science '' supporting the advice .
Professor Angela McLean , the deputy chief scientific adviser , said SAGE had recommended that there is `` weak evidence of a small effect '' that wearing a mask can stop an infected person spreading the disease .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker She told Tuesday 's COVID-19 news conference : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is weak and the effect is small , and we have passed that on to our colleagues in government with which to make a decision . ''
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has also suggested there may be a danger that people would act in a `` cavalier '' way if told to wear masks .
`` The scientific evidence so far says face coverings can have an effect in preventing an individual from spreading the disease to others if they have it and are asymptomatic , '' he told MPs on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worry that some people may think that wearing a mask protects themselves , as distinct to protecting others , and therefore they may behave in a manner that is slightly more cavalier . ''

There is evidence face coverings have a "weak but positive effect" in reducing transmission of the coronavirus, Downing Street has said.
A spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said ministers are still considering what guidance to issue to the public during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Experts have argued coverings are unlikely to prevent someone contracting the coronavirus, but say it may reduce the number of infected people who are not showing symptoms from spreading the virus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 'I do think that face coverings will be useful'
NHS England has announced 352 new deaths of people who tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 20,483.
In Scotland there have been a further 40 deaths (taking the total to 1,515), while there have been 17 more deaths in Wales (925) and 18 more in Northern Ireland (365 total).
Asked about face coverings at the daily Westminster briefing for journalists, the PM's spokesman said: "Ministers are still considering how we move forward with face coverings in terms of the precise advice which we give to the public and once that's ready we will announce it.
"The advice we have received based on the science shows a weak but positive effect in reducing transmission of coronavirus from asymptomatic members of the public where social distancing isn't possible.
"What ministers need to consider is how best to produce advice for the public on the next steps and that work is still ongoing."
It comes after the PM said face coverings will be "useful" when lockdown restrictions are eased to "give people confidence they can go back to work".
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:27 How good are masks at stopping virus spread?
On Thursday, Mr Johnson said: "What I think SAGE [the government's scientific advisory group] is saying, what I certainly agree with, is that as part of coming out of the lockdown, I do think face coverings will be useful.
"Both for epidemiological reasons but, also, for giving people confidence that they can go back to work.
"You're going to be hearing more about that and that kind of thing next week."
It is understood that ministers are not considering recommending people use medical-quality masks, which could divert supplies away from the NHS.
What kind of materials are advisable to use for such coverings is one of the issues the government is considering.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:21 Scotland endorses COVID-19 face coverings
On Tuesday, the Scottish government issued new advice saying that people should wear face coverings in shops and on public transport.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon did not make their use mandatory, conceding the evidence over their use is "still limited".
But she said there were benefits in wearing coverings to reduce transmission from individuals who are not yet displaying symptoms.
Asked that same day whether the recommendation was likely to be adopted across the UK, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the government's position had not changed and that there was "weak science" supporting the advice.
Professor Angela McLean, the deputy chief scientific adviser, said SAGE had recommended that there is "weak evidence of a small effect" that wearing a mask can stop an infected person spreading the disease.
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 Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
She told Tuesday's COVID-19 news conference: "The answer is clear that the evidence is weak and the effect is small, and we have passed that on to our colleagues in government with which to make a decision."
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has also suggested there may be a danger that people would act in a "cavalier" way if told to wear masks.
"The scientific evidence so far says face coverings can have an effect in preventing an individual from spreading the disease to others if they have it and are asymptomatic," he told MPs on Wednesday.
"But there is also a worry that some people may think that wearing a mask protects themselves, as distinct to protecting others, and therefore they may behave in a manner that is slightly more cavalier."


news--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: Politicians in 'bulletproof vests' as protesters with rifles enter state capitol

A US senator has said some colleagues wore bulletproof vests as protesters with assault rifles entered the Michigan State Capitol on Thursday .
Hundreds of people , some of them armed , attended the `` American Patriot Rally '' against extending the coronavirus lockdown in the state .
Police allowed more than 100 to enter the building , where weapons are permitted .
Inside , they sang the national anthem and chanted `` let us work '' .
Senator Dayna Polehanki tweeted a picture from the chamber of `` men with rifles yelling at us '' .
`` Some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wearing them .
I have never appreciated our Sergeants-at-Arms more than today , '' she said .
Pictures show another senator , Sylvia Santana , appearing to be wearing a vest under her jacket .
Photos show protesters ignoring social distancing and yelling at police to let them in the chamber .
They were demonstrating over a request by Michigan 's governor to extend emergency powers to deal with the COVID-19 crisis .
The protesters want businesses to be allowed to reopen to get the economy going again .
But Gretchen Whitmer defied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown to 28 May .
More than 3,700 people have died after being diagnosed with coronavirus in the state - the majority in the Detroit area - only New York and New Jersey have recorded more deaths .
The protest appeared to be the biggest in Michigan since thousands of Trump supporters jammed the streets around the capitol building two weeks ago for `` Operation Gridlock '' .

A US senator has said some colleagues wore bulletproof vests as protesters with assault rifles entered the Michigan State Capitol on Thursday.
Hundreds of people, some of them armed, attended the "American Patriot Rally" against extending the coronavirus lockdown in the state.
Police allowed more than 100 to enter the building, where weapons are permitted.
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
Inside, they sang the national anthem and chanted "let us work".
Senator Dayna Polehanki tweeted a picture from the chamber of "men with rifles yelling at us".
"Some of my colleagues who own bulletproof vests are wearing them. I have never appreciated our Sergeants-at-Arms more than today," she said.
Pictures show another senator, Sylvia Santana, appearing to be wearing a vest under her jacket.
Photos show protesters ignoring social distancing and yelling at police to let them in the chamber.
Image: Protesters yelled at police to allow them into the chamber
Image: The governor ignored the protests and extended lockdown until 28 May
They were demonstrating over a request by Michigan's governor to extend emergency powers to deal with the COVID-19 crisis.
Advertisement
The protesters want businesses to be allowed to reopen to get the economy going again.
But Gretchen Whitmer defied the state's Republican legislature and extended the lockdown to 28 May.
Image: Guns are allowed to be carried in the open in Michigan
More than 3,700 people have died after being diagnosed with coronavirus in the state - the majority in the Detroit area - only New York and New Jersey have recorded more deaths.
The protest appeared to be the biggest in Michigan since thousands of Trump supporters jammed the streets around the capitol building two weeks ago for "Operation Gridlock".