news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: Test and trace programme launches amid reports of 'crashes'

The government 's coronavirus test and trace programme has launched but there were reports of crashes amid suggestions it may not be fully ready .
NHS workers in the scheme reported being unable to log into the new website , with volunteers saying they received a message on the programme saying a `` critical incident '' has been reported with the system .
It comes as Baroness Dido Harding , who has been appointed to lead the scheme , told MPs on a conference call the system will not be fully operational until the end of June .
Following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was `` not sure where that leaves Johnson 's promise of a fully operational 'world beating ' system by Monday '' .
Anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has been infected with COVID-19 will be asked to isolate for 14 days even if they have no symptoms .
Boris Johnson has acknowledged that being told to self-isolate was a `` huge imposition '' but people should be aware of why the programme is needed .
And he warned that if the initial voluntary system was not respected , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fail to comply .
However , doubt was cast on whether the test and trace system would actually be fully ready on time , with one person telling Sky News that the system constantly crashed because of the volume of users .
Sky 's political correspondent Rob Powell said a Department of Health source said that `` some contact tracers had some issues logging in '' .
`` They say this is the staff side of things , whereas the public side where you can go online and book a test if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
He added officials have acknowledged there will be `` teething problems and they will take time to iron out '' .
NHS Providers boss Chris Hopson said `` some elements '' of test and trace are now in place but local plans are not , and the government should `` manage expectations '' and be honest this will take time to build up and not suggest it is all ready to go now .
Speaking to Sky News , Mr Bradshaw said Baroness Harding confirmed the programme `` would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected to be ready until the end of June '' , adding : `` It does n't really fit with what the prime minister told the House of Commons at Prime Minister 's Questions last week . ''
One contact tracer told Sky News that volunteers were told on Wednesday that they would be starting on 1 June , and `` knew nothing about the announcement yesterday that it was going to be today '' .
`` It really is as bad as I thought it was in terms of organisation - this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The contact tracer , who preferred to remain anonymous , added that there is `` no quality or vetting process '' in terms of who the government is hiring .
`` There 's no checks and balances in terms of what people they are hiring .
It 's just a matter of getting the number of people through the door . ''
Explaining the scheme , the prime minister told MPs on the liaison committee on Wednesday : `` We will be asking people to stay at home .
`` If they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will be saying is we will consider what sanctions may be necessary . ''
Health secretary Matt Hancock warned people could be forced to self-isolate under the new coronavirus test and trace system if they do not follow the rules voluntarily .
He said : `` We have considered making this mandatory and there are some other countries in which it 's mandatory .
`` But in the first instance , we have great faith the public will follow the instructions from the NHS '' .
Anyone who tests positive will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been in close contact with and places they have visited over the last seven days - either by a contact tracer or by a text or email .
Once they have given those details , either to the contact tracer or online via a website , those contacts will then be alerted by phone , text or email .
Depending on their level of risk , those contacts will be instructed to isolate for up to 14 days - anyone with symptoms should also isolate for seven days while they wait for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the launch , the government has hired 25,000 contact tracers to get in touch with people who have the virus .
Officials said all of them would be ready to report for duty on Thursday .
Yet the scheme will not include the contact tracing app currently being tested on the Isle of Wight , which means it will not be able to identify people unknown to someone who tests positive .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A Department of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The system has not crashed .
Anyone in the country can log on and book a test if they have symptoms and we have tracers logged on to do their vital work to help stop the spread of coronavirus and save lives .
`` As with all large scale operations of this kind , some staff did initially encounter issues logging on to their systems and these are rapidly being resolved . ''
They added : `` Test and trace begins today , not June , and local councils already have plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` To support the roll-out of test and trace , all councils have been asked to extend these existing plans into dedicated Local Outbreak Plans by the end of June .
Last week we gave all councils £300 million new dedicated funding to support this . ''
Downing Street has also confirmed the number of people tested for COVID-19 has not been released for several days due to an `` issue '' meaning they were unable to get the data from one commercial partner .
Mr Johnson 's spokesman said he expects test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the @ @ @ @ @ @

The government's coronavirus test and trace programme has launched but there were reports of crashes amid suggestions it may not be fully ready.
NHS workers in the scheme reported being unable to log into the new website, with volunteers saying they received a message on the programme saying a "critical incident" has been reported with the system.
It comes as Baroness Dido Harding, who has been appointed to lead the scheme, told MPs on a conference call the system will not be fully operational until the end of June.
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Following the call, Labour MP Ben Bradshaw tweeted he was "not sure where that leaves Johnson's promise of a fully operational 'world beating' system by Monday".
Anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has been infected with COVID-19 will be asked to isolate for 14 days even if they have no symptoms.
Boris Johnson has acknowledged that being told to self-isolate was a "huge imposition" but people should be aware of why the programme is needed.
And he warned that if the initial voluntary system was not respected, fines could be introduced for people who fail to comply.
However, doubt was cast on whether the test and trace system would actually be fully ready on time, with one person telling Sky News that the system constantly crashed because of the volume of users.
Sky's political correspondent Rob Powell said a Department of Health source said that "some contact tracers had some issues logging in".
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"They say this is the staff side of things, whereas the public side where you can go online and book a test if you are symptomatic is still running smoothly," he said.
He added officials have acknowledged there will be "teething problems and they will take time to iron out".
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NHS Providers boss Chris Hopson said "some elements" of test and trace are now in place but local plans are not, and the government should "manage expectations" and be honest this will take time to build up and not suggest it is all ready to go now.
Speaking to Sky News, Mr Bradshaw said Baroness Harding confirmed the programme "would not be ready and would not be expected to be ready until the end of June", adding: "It doesn't really fit with what the prime minister told the House of Commons at Prime Minister's Questions last week."
One contact tracer told Sky News that volunteers were told on Wednesday that they would be starting on 1 June, and "knew nothing about the announcement yesterday that it was going to be today".
"It really is as bad as I thought it was in terms of organisation - this is particularly bad," they said.
The contact tracer, who preferred to remain anonymous, added that there is "no quality or vetting process" in terms of who the government is hiring.
"There's no checks and balances in terms of what people they are hiring. It's just a matter of getting the number of people through the door."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:01 Hancock explains 'detective' work used for track and trace
Explaining the scheme, the prime minister told MPs on the liaison committee on Wednesday: "We will be asking people to stay at home.
"If they don't follow that advice, what we will be saying is we will consider what sanctions may be necessary."
Health secretary Matt Hancock warned people could be forced to self-isolate under the new coronavirus test and trace system if they do not follow the rules voluntarily.
He said: "We have considered making this mandatory and there are some other countries in which it's mandatory.
"But in the first instance, we have great faith the public will follow the instructions from the NHS".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:41 PM sorry for 'pain, anguish and heartbreak'
Anyone who tests positive will be asked for details of people they have been in close contact with and places they have visited over the last seven days - either by a contact tracer or by a text or email.
Once they have given those details, either to the contact tracer or online via a website, those contacts will then be alerted by phone, text or email.
Depending on their level of risk, those contacts will be instructed to isolate for up to 14 days - anyone with symptoms should also isolate for seven days while they wait for a test result.
In order to prepare for the launch, the government has hired 25,000 contact tracers to get in touch with people who have the virus. Officials said all of them would be ready to report for duty on Thursday.
Yet the scheme will not include the contact tracing app currently being tested on the Isle of Wight, which means it will not be able to identify people unknown to someone who tests positive.
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A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "The system has not crashed. Anyone in the country can log on and book a test if they have symptoms and we have tracers logged on to do their vital work to help stop the spread of coronavirus and save lives.
"As with all large scale operations of this kind, some staff did initially encounter issues logging on to their systems and these are rapidly being resolved."
They added: "Test and trace begins today, not June, and local councils already have plans in place to respond to COVID-19.
"To support the roll-out of test and trace, all councils have been asked to extend these existing plans into dedicated Local Outbreak Plans by the end of June. Last week we gave all councils £300 million new dedicated funding to support this."
Downing Street has also confirmed the number of people tested for COVID-19 has not been released for several days due to an "issue" meaning they were unable to get the data from one commercial partner.
Mr Johnson's spokesman said he expects test reporting to continue again as usual next week.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-28--Elvis Presley's rhinestone jockstrap and Marilyn Monroe's hair go on sale

Elvis Presley 's rhinestone-studded jockstrap and a lock of Marilyn Monroe 's hair from the night she sang `` Happy Birthday Mr President '' are among a host of celebrity memorabilia up for sale .
One lucky Elvis fan - who has a spare £30,000 - could be the owner of the jockstrap which was made for him by a fan and later ended up in the collection of Jimmy Velvet , a singer who opened an Elvis museum in Memphis .
The king is believed to have worn the glitzy piece , complete with his initials , several times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extravagant .
It is absurd .
It is absolutely Elvis , '' said Daniel Wade , manager of Paul Fraser Collectibles in Bristol which is selling the jockstrap as part of an unusual celebrity memorabilia sale .
While the jockstrap may be the most racy piece in the sale , the most expensive is a lock of Marilyn Monroe 's hair saved by her hairdresser who cut it from her head in 1962 on the night she sang `` Happy Birthday Mr President '' to John F Kennedy .
At £250,000 , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but Mr Wade said the coronavirus lockdown has only increased people 's interest in celebrity memorabilia .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Also in the sale is Mahatma Gandhi 's food , bowl , fork and two spoons for £75,000 , astronaut Neil Armstrong 's hairdressing scissors and comb for £25,000 , Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson 's snuff box for £45,000 , Pope Pius XII 's skullcap for £8,950 .
An unpublished and illustrated horoscope document by Harry Potter author JK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already been sold for £17,500 .
With more time on their hands people are seeking out alternative interests , but Mr Wade said they are also seeking different investments as the financial markets continue to dive .
`` Well , we 're actually seeing enquiries increased markedly in the last few weeks , '' he said .
`` A lot more people are approaching us , particularly with a view to investing .
`` Also , people have more free time .
So we are seeing more collectors , just pure collectors coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But we are seeing more people coming to us with a view to sort of hedging the diversification for their portfolios . ''
But if fans are going to be parting with that much money for a lock of hair , they are going to want to know if it truly is Monroe 's .
Mr Wade said : `` It 's all about checking the authenticity about the provenance .
Can you can you plot a line of ownership from it being snipped by the barber to today ?
`` You ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in it .
We only sell items we are 100 % confident in . ''
Monroe memorabilia has a history of attracting the big bucks , with the white dress worn by the actress in The Seven Year Itch selling for £4.5 million in 2011 , making it the most valuable dress ever sold , while the dress she wore during her performance of Happy Birthday Mr President sold for £3.85m in 2016 .

Elvis Presley's rhinestone-studded jockstrap and a lock of Marilyn Monroe's hair from the night she sang "Happy Birthday Mr President" are among a host of celebrity memorabilia up for sale.
One lucky Elvis fan - who has a spare £30,000 - could be the owner of the jockstrap which was made for him by a fan and later ended up in the collection of Jimmy Velvet, a singer who opened an Elvis museum in Memphis.
The king is believed to have worn the glitzy piece, complete with his initials, several times in the 1970s.
Image: Elvis on stage in 1977
"It is extravagant. It is absurd. It is absolutely Elvis," said Daniel Wade, manager of Paul Fraser Collectibles in Bristol which is selling the jockstrap as part of an unusual celebrity memorabilia sale.
While the jockstrap may be the most racy piece in the sale, the most expensive is a lock of Marilyn Monroe's hair saved by her hairdresser who cut it from her head in 1962 on the night she sang "Happy Birthday Mr President" to John F Kennedy.
At £250,000, the lock of hair is fairly pricey, but Mr Wade said the coronavirus lockdown has only increased people's interest in celebrity memorabilia.
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Also in the sale is Mahatma Gandhi's food, bowl, fork and two spoons for £75,000, astronaut Neil Armstrong's hairdressing scissors and comb for £25,000, Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson's snuff box for £45,000, Pope Pius XII's skullcap for £8,950.
An unpublished and illustrated horoscope document by Harry Potter author JK Rowling was in the collection but has already been sold for £17,500.
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With more time on their hands people are seeking out alternative interests, but Mr Wade said they are also seeking different investments as the financial markets continue to dive.
Image: A lock of Marilyn Monroe's hair is being sold for £250,000. Pic: Paul Fraser Collectibles
Image: Monroe sings Happy Birthday to President Kennedy
"Well, we're actually seeing enquiries increased markedly in the last few weeks," he said.
"A lot more people are approaching us, particularly with a view to investing.
"Also, people have more free time. So we are seeing more collectors, just pure collectors coming to us and buying items.
"But we are seeing more people coming to us with a view to sort of hedging the diversification for their portfolios."
Image: Mahatma Gandhi's bowl and cutlery is on sale for £75,000. Pic: Paul Fraser Collectibles
Image: Lord Nelson's snuff box is up for £45,000. Pic: Paul Fraser Collectibles
But if fans are going to be parting with that much money for a lock of hair, they are going to want to know if it truly is Monroe's.
Mr Wade said: "It's all about checking the authenticity about the provenance. Can you can you plot a line of ownership from it being snipped by the barber to today?
"You can't, then we are not interested in it. We only sell items we are 100% confident in."
Image: Astronaut Neil Armstrong's hairdressing scissors and comb are on sale for £25,000. Pic: Paul Fraser Collectibles
Image: An unpublished illustrated horoscope made by JK Rowling has already sold for £17,500. Pic: Paul Fraser Collectibles
Monroe memorabilia has a history of attracting the big bucks, with the white dress worn by the actress in The Seven Year Itch selling for £4.5 million in 2011, making it the most valuable dress ever sold, while the dress she wore during her performance of Happy Birthday Mr President sold for £3.85m in 2016.


news--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Premier League to return on 17 June after three-month lay-off

The Premier League will return on 17 June - three months after the 2019-20 season was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic .
No matches have been played since Leicester City 's 4-0 win over Aston Villa on 9 March .
Fixtures that were due to have been played just days later were postponed after Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta tested positive for coronavirus on 13 March , leaving the campaign in limbo .
The first games to be played upon the league 's resumption will see Aston Villa host Sheffield United , while Manchester City welcome Arsenal .
Both of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to domestic cup ties , and every club will have played 29 league games once they are completed .
Every team will then be left with nine games to play , with dates for further fixtures - which will all be played without supporters in the stadiums - still to be confirmed .
All 92 matches will be broadcast live across Sky Sports , BT Sport , BBC Sport and Amazon Prime .
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said the TV deal was a `` positive solution '' for clubs and supporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subject to change if safety requirements were compromised .
`` Today we have provisionally agreed to resume the Premier League on Wednesday June 17 , '' he said .
`` But this date can not be confirmed until we have met all the safety requirements needed , as the health and welfare of all participants and supporters is our priority .
`` Sadly , matches will have to take place without fans in stadiums , so we are pleased to have come up with a positive solution for supporters to be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The announcement of the Premier League 's return comes after clubs voted unanimously to resume contact training , following some sessions carried out in smaller groups and with social distancing measures in place .
Squads can now train together under the watchful eye of their coaches , and are allowed to tackle and practice routines involving large clutches of players , such as corners and free-kicks .
The Premier League said `` strict medical protocols '' were in place at top-flight training grounds in England to make sure everyone involved was as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and staff will continue to be tested twice a week - a strategy that has resulted in a handful of confirmed cases since training resumed during the first phase of `` Project Restart '' earlier this month .
Since it began its testing programme , the league has announced a total of eight positive results , including Watford defender Adrian Mariappa and Burnley assistant manager Ian Woan .
Watford striker Troy Deeney has said he will not make an immediate return to training because of health concerns , while Chelsea have given midfielder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
Deeney has been particularly outspoken regarding the greater threat COVID-19 appears to pose to black , Asian and ethnic minority communities .
Sky News analysis suggests 65 % of all health and social care workers who have died with COVID-19 in the UK came from a BAME background .
Deeney said : `` For black , Asian and mixed ethnicities ... they are four times more likely to get the illness - and we are twice as likely to have long-lasting illnesses .
`` Is there any additional screening ?
Heart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems ?
No .
`` Okay , well I feel like that should be addressed . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The Premier League will be hoping its return will go as smoothly as the Bundesliga , with the German top division now having completed two rounds of fixtures in empty stadiums .
Unfortunately for Liverpool , it means their all-but-guaranteed title win will be confirmed without fans present .
Jurgen Klopp is two wins away from guiding the Anfield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crown - they were 25 points clear of holders Manchester City when the season was halted .
It remains unclear when the second and third English tiers - the Championship and League One - may return to action , although clubs have indicated that they would like to complete their campaigns .
Other top European divisions have not been so fortunate , with the French Ligue 1 and the Scottish Premiership among those cancelled due to the pandemic .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

The Premier League will return on 17 June - three months after the 2019-20 season was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
No matches have been played since Leicester City's 4-0 win over Aston Villa on 9 March.
Fixtures that were due to have been played just days later were postponed after Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta tested positive for coronavirus on 13 March, leaving the campaign in limbo.
Image: Aston Villa played Leicester in the final match before lockdown
The first games to be played upon the league's resumption will see Aston Villa host Sheffield United, while Manchester City welcome Arsenal.
Both of those matches had originally been postponed due to domestic cup ties, and every club will have played 29 league games once they are completed.
Every team will then be left with nine games to play, with dates for further fixtures - which will all be played without supporters in the stadiums - still to be confirmed.
All 92 matches will be broadcast live across Sky Sports, BT Sport, BBC Sport and Amazon Prime.
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said the TV deal was a "positive solution" for clubs and supporters, although noted that all plans were subject to change if safety requirements were compromised.
"Today we have provisionally agreed to resume the Premier League on Wednesday June 17," he said.
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"But this date cannot be confirmed until we have met all the safety requirements needed, as the health and welfare of all participants and supporters is our priority.
"Sadly, matches will have to take place without fans in stadiums, so we are pleased to have come up with a positive solution for supporters to be able to watch all the remaining 92 matches."
Image: Liverpool are set to take the title from Manchester City
The announcement of the Premier League's return comes after clubs voted unanimously to resume contact training, following some sessions carried out in smaller groups and with social distancing measures in place.
Squads can now train together under the watchful eye of their coaches, and are allowed to tackle and practice routines involving large clutches of players, such as corners and free-kicks.
The Premier League said "strict medical protocols" were in place at top-flight training grounds in England to make sure everyone involved was as protected as possible from COVID-19.
Players and staff will continue to be tested twice a week - a strategy that has resulted in a handful of confirmed cases since training resumed during the first phase of "Project Restart" earlier this month.
Since it began its testing programme, the league has announced a total of eight positive results, including Watford defender Adrian Mariappa and Burnley assistant manager Ian Woan.
Image: European places are up for grabs for teams like Man Utd
Watford striker Troy Deeney has said he will not make an immediate return to training because of health concerns, while Chelsea have given midfielder N'Golo Kante permission to stay home, too.
Deeney has been particularly outspoken regarding the greater threat COVID-19 appears to pose to black, Asian and ethnic minority communities.
Sky News analysis suggests 65% of all health and social care workers who have died with COVID-19 in the UK came from a BAME background.
Deeney said: "For black, Asian and mixed ethnicities... they are four times more likely to get the illness - and we are twice as likely to have long-lasting illnesses.
"Is there any additional screening? Heart stuff to see if people have got problems? No.
"Okay, well I feel like that should be addressed."
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
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The Premier League will be hoping its return will go as smoothly as the Bundesliga, with the German top division now having completed two rounds of fixtures in empty stadiums.
Unfortunately for Liverpool, it means their all-but-guaranteed title win will be confirmed without fans present.
Jurgen Klopp is two wins away from guiding the Anfield side to their first ever Premier League crown - they were 25 points clear of holders Manchester City when the season was halted.
It remains unclear when the second and third English tiers - the Championship and League One - may return to action, although clubs have indicated that they would like to complete their campaigns.
Other top European divisions have not been so fortunate, with the French Ligue 1 and the Scottish Premiership among those cancelled due to the pandemic.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-25--Coronavirus: Which Tory MPs are calling for Dominic Cummings to go and why?

Boris Johnson has stood by Dominic Cummings - despite mounting calls for the prime minister to sack his top aide for making several trips during lockdown .
But while Boris Johnson has insisted his adviser did nothing wrong and even granted him his own news conference to try to clear up any confusion , the Conservatives leader is struggling to contain growing fury from within his own party .
Backbench MPs have begun openly calling for Mr Cummings to resign or be fired , and discontent has spread to ministers - with one resigning from the government in protest .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ prime minister 's personal special adviser to go ?
A powerful enemy to have on the backbenches , Steve Baker sits on the executive of the 1922 Committee - the body representing all Tory MPs .
He told Sky News ' Sophy Ridge on Sunday : `` We are now in a nonsense position , a pantomime position where it seems if you wish to apply a wide common-sense interpretation to the rules you can do , at least if you work in Number 10 .
`` It 's ridiculous , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If he does n't resign , he will just be burning through Boris 's political capital at a rate that we can ill-afford in the midst of this crisis . ''
He has not made a public statement since Mr Cummings ' speech from the Downing Street rose garden .
The Tory MP for Wellingborough told Sky News on Sunday : `` I 'm certain he has to go . ''
`` We ca n't really have a rule that applies to everyone except the government elite .
`` He could have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a bad mistake and I 'm sorry about it and I should n't have done it .
And I think he probably would have carried on .
`` But to try and pretend he did n't break the rules just does n't stand up to scrutiny . ''
He told Sky News on Tuesday Mr Cummings ' statements the previous day `` confirmed everything I thought '' .
Speaking after Boris Johnson 's full-throated defence of his senior adviser , Simon Hoare told the Daily Mail : `` The PM 's performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Any residual hope that this might die away in the next 24 hours is lost . ''
Damian Collins , who found Mr Cummings in contempt of parliament for refusing to appear before the select committee he used to chair , said : `` Dominic Cummings has a track record of believing that the rules do n't apply to him and treating the scrutiny that should come to anyone in a position of authority with contempt .
`` The government would be better without him . ''
Mr Collins confirmed on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The East Worthing and Shoreham MP said many people `` made the choice not to 'reinterpret ' the lockdown rules '' and it is `` even more important that they are followed even more relentlessly by those responsible for making and enforcing them '' .
He explained : `` It is with regret therefore that I have come to the conclusion that the position of Dominic Cummings is untenable as the chief adviser to the Government and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` But his continuing in the role any longer can only undermine the authority of the Prime Minister and the Government at a time when both need to be completely focussed on getting the nation through the next stage of the Coronavirus crisis .
`` I am also worried that a number of scientists providing expert advice to the Government have also expressed the concern that their work is at threat of being undermined . ''
Mr Loughton confirmed to Sky News on Tuesday he still wants Mr Cummings gone .
The MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I fully acknowledge that the perceived hypocrisy of the rule makers potentially threatens the success of any future measures we may need to introduce if there is a second wave of coronavirus here in the UK .
`` We must have confidence that we are doing the right things for the right reasons and that we are all truly in it together .
For that reason I believe Mr Cummings ' position is now untenable . ''
Mr McCartney told Sky News on Tuesday he holds the same view .
The Veteran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ served in parliament since 1983 , said after the prime minister 's news conference : `` I 'm very disappointed .
`` I think it was an opportunity to put this to bed and I fear that now the story is simply going to run and run . ''
He restated his position after Mr Cummings ' news conference , tweeting on Tuesday : `` The time I think , has come for Mr Cummings to resign or for the PM to dispense of his services . ''
Mr Cummings ' position was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Calder Valley MP , who added : `` You can not advise the nation one thing then do the opposite . ''
He tweeted on Tuesday : `` My view has not changed . ''
`` It is becoming increasingly clear that Dominic Cummings ' position is no longer tenable , '' the York Outer MP tweeted on Monday .
`` The government need to urgently refocus on our national priorities , namely our efforts to manage the COVID-19 outbreak . ''
Mr Sturdy told Sky News on Tuesday his position is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caroline Nokes said : `` I made my views clear to my whip yesterday .
There can not be one rule for most of us and wriggle room for others .
`` My inbox is rammed with very angry constituents and I do not blame them .
They have made difficult sacrifices over the course of the last nine weeks . ''
Ms Nokes stood by her comments on Tuesday .
The Poole MP tweeted : `` The government has to explain test , track and trace and the next phase of lifting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ merits of a government adviser , they should never be the story or it detracts from the central message which is to get us out of this crisis .
The adviser should go . ''
He added on Tuesday to another colleague calling on Mr Cummings to resign they were `` spot on '' .
Former minister Paul Maynard said : `` It is a classic case of 'do as I say , not as I do ' - and it is not as if he was unfamiliar with guidance he himself helped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me to be utterly indefensible and his position wholly untenable . ''
Mr Maynard said his position had not changed on Tuesday .
The Cleethorpes MP said Mr Cummings ' `` actions do undermine the message , which was very clear that people should stay at home '' .
`` I 'm afraid Mr Cummings has let the government and Mr Johnson down in that respect . ''
he told Sky News .
`` He should have done the decent thing and stood down . ''
Mr Vickers confirmed to Sky News on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Waveney MP since 2010 said his view had originally been sympathetic to Mr Cummings , but he has since revised his opinion .
He tweeted : `` The government should recognise what families have gone through and what people are thinking and saying .
It is thus important that Dominic Cummings should now stand down . ''
Mr Aldous told Sky News on Tuesday his thinking is still the same .
Somerton and Frome MP David Warburton said on Monday Mr Cummings was `` damaging the Government and the country that he 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said his own father had died alone as a result of the coronavirus lockdown , adding : `` People have made sacrifices , this is a difficult time , this is a time of national crisis . ''
Mr Warbuton said his views are `` definitely unchanged if not firmer '' when contacted by Sky News on Tuesday .
The MP for Beckenham said on Monday of Mr Cummings : `` He certainly destroyed the spirit of the ruled by what he did .
`` It will make it very difficult for us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to accept the largely voluntary restraints we have lived under for nine weeks .
`` I apologise for that because those rules remain in place and we should all still abide by them .
I am afraid I believe his position is thus untenable . ''
Mr Stewart has been asked if he stands by his comments and has not retracted them in public posts made since .
Carlisle MP John Stevenson said his constituents `` and the country have sacrificed a lot over the last few weeks '' .
`` People in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Cummings holds such a position , '' he wrote .
`` Therefore in my view in the interests of the country Mr Cummings should resign . ''
Mr Stevenson confirmed to Sky News on Tuesday he still wants Mr Cummings go leave his post .
William Wragg , who chairs a Commons select committee and sits on the executive of the 1922 group of all Tory MPs , said on Tuesday : `` We can not throw away valuable public and political good will any longer .
`` It 's humiliating and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put out agreed lines in defence of an adviser .
This is a time of national emergency and our focus must be unrelenting .
We owe it to the nation . ''
A junior Scotland Office minister resigned over the debacle , saying on Tuesday that : `` While the intentions may have been well-meaning , the reaction to this news shows that Mr Cummings ' interpretation of the government advice was not shared by the vast majority of people who have done as the government asked .
`` I have constituents who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loved ones ; families who could not mourn together ; people who did n't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the government .
`` I can not in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior adviser to the government was right . ''
The Rugby and Bulkington MP wrote in a lengthy statement published on Tuesday : `` I believe that it is wrong that Mr Cummings remains in an important post in government .
`` I had hoped he that would tender his resignation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has failed to do so , I now believe it is right for the prime minister to ask for his resignation .
`` It is vital that public confidence must not be undermined by this episode . ''
The Shipley MP said on Tuesday : `` It is admirable of the prime minister to be loyal to his staff and seek to defend and support those who work for him .
`` Dominic Cummings should now repay that loyalty to the prime minister by resigning his position for the good of the prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
A former chief whip , the Forest of Dean MP said there was `` no credible justification '' for the Barnard Castle trip .
`` Mr Cummings should have offered to resign and the PM should have accepted his resignation , '' he tweeted on Tuesday .
In a message sent to his constituents , the Wyre Forest MP said : `` It is clear to me that despite his story , despite an element of politics in this , and despite his value to the government , his remaining in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at multiple levels .
`` For him to stay would be to reject the valiant efforts of millions of us all who have done what we can to squash this infection .
`` His resignation is now the only way forward . ''
In an email to constituents , the Wimbledon MP wrote : `` I share much of the confusion and anger that so many constituents have expressed .
`` I would have not made the decisions that he did .
I have not seen my elderly parents since the beginning of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do the best thing for Wimbledon and whilst I think it would be served by Mr Cummings leaving his role , I accept that is the prime minister 's decision who he employs as a special adviser . ''
In a post on his website , the former cabinet minister said : `` What is most important at this point is that government can give clear messages about how to defeat the virus and that everyone feels motivated to do their best to help .
`` This is more important than the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and therefore , fairly or unfairly , I have concluded that it would be better for Mr Cummings to leave his position at Downing Street . ''
The Carshalton and Wallington MP , who was only elected in December , said on Tuesday : `` As we start to relax some of the lockdown measures , we must continue to stay alert in order to prevent a second wave of this virus .
`` I fear this situation risks undermining those efforts , just when we are seeing a significant reduction in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claimed .
`` It is for these reasons , that I have written to the prime minister again today to express my view that Mr Cummings should resign . ''
The Bromley and Chislehurst MP , the chair of the House of Commons justice committee , said : `` Although an adviser , not a minister or elected representative , Mr Cummings is , by virtue of his job , prominently in the public eye .
We can not have a suggestion of one rule for some and a different one for others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the real anger , hurt and disappointment that many people now feel .
`` We can not allow the economic , physical and emotional price that families and businesses have made to go to waste , and we can not allow the key public health messages to be clouded . ''
The Thurrock MP said : `` Frankly this has been a very embarrassing episode for the government .
`` To bring this sorry chapter to an end I am afraid Mr Cummings has to go . ''
The West Worcestershire MP , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The government relies on moral authority to receive the consent of the people to such draconian reductions in their freedoms .
`` Therefore , for the sake of future adherence to public health guidelines , I believe he should resign . ''
The Tewkesbury MP said : `` Like many others , I have found the rules to be personally heart-wrenching .
`` On 5 May , my father died of coronavirus and the pain and guilt of my being unable to visit him as he fought for his life will haunt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I would n't wish this situation on anyone , but I know that many of my constituents have suffered in the same or similar ways .
`` And given that we are fighting against a world-wide pandemic , we really do need to be all in this together .
`` That means you , me , ministers and senior officials . ''
The North Wiltshire MP said : `` Over the next few difficult weeks and months we need the full confidence of the people if they are to agree to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safeguard both their lives and for their livelihoods .
`` And for that to happen they have to have full confidence in the Government which is asking them to do it .
`` It can only be rebuilt if he now departs the scene . ''
In an email to a constituent seen by the PA news agency , the Ruislip , Northwood and Pinner MP wrote : `` Whilst the facts of Mr Cummings 's situation are disputed and there are ongoing investigations , it is important in my view not to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , I have conveyed the strength of feeling locally to relevant colleagues , and my own view , through the appropriate channels , that Mr Cummings should step down . ''
The Clacton MP said : `` This unfortunate episode now has the potential to negatively impact on the effectiveness of our collective response to COVID-19 , and , I believe , the only way to restore the credibility of the government 's guidance in the eyes of local residents is for Mr Cummings to stand down . ''
The Mid-Derbyshire MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the stress of the situation he was in , as a husband and a parent , I do not believe his actions were appropriate . ''
The Harrogate and Knaresborough MP told his local newspaper : `` It is difficult to see how someone so instrumental in drawing up the rules can then say that what we all understood them to be actually has a 'Yes , but ... ' in the small print when it comes to the choices he made . ''
The High Peak MP said : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is one rule for the public and another for politicians . ''
The South West Bedfordshire MP said : `` I believe that his behaviour has damaged the prime minister , the government and , most critically of all , the integrity of our vital public health messages .
`` I therefore think he should no longer have a role in government as his continued presence makes the vital work of the government in tackling COVID-19 more difficult . ''
The Mid Norfolk MP tweeted : `` After 48hrs & c1000 emails from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chief of Staff breaking the lockdown & not apologising , it 's clear that public anger at the betrayal of their trust & compliance now risks a collapse of respect for HMG public health advice .
DC has to go . ''
The former Northern Ireland secretary said to constituents on Thursday : `` I have read the stories of personal sacrifice you and many others have made .
`` We expect those that lead us to lead by example , especially those with such a significant influence on government .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the sake of this country , Mr Cummings should do the right thing now and stop damaging the work that needs to be done . ''
The East Devon MP wrote in a blog post : `` Although I believe his actions were motivated by a father 's desire to do what he felt was necessary to protect his family in exceptional circumstances , if placed in the same situation I would n't have made the same decisions and would have since considered my position . ''
Sky News has also spoken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Alec Shelbrooke , Henry Smith and Andrew Percy - who confirmed on Tuesday they want the adviser gone .
Sir David Amess has called for Mr Cummings to be `` suspended from his office whilst a full and thorough independent investigation is held '' .
Privately , several more MPs - including senior ones - are voicing the same opinion , including one who told Sky News `` this is our black Wednesday '' - in reference to the 1992 financial crisis that stained the Conservatives ' economic record .

Boris Johnson has stood by Dominic Cummings - despite mounting calls for the prime minister to sack his top aide for making several trips during lockdown.
But while Boris Johnson has insisted his adviser did nothing wrong and even granted him his own news conference to try to clear up any confusion, the Conservatives leader is struggling to contain growing fury from within his own party.
Backbench MPs have begun openly calling for Mr Cummings to resign or be fired, and discontent has spread to ministers - with one resigning from the government in protest.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:51 Johnson tells nation he's standing by Cummings
So which politicians have called for the prime minister's personal special adviser to go?
1. Steve Baker
A powerful enemy to have on the backbenches, Steve Baker sits on the executive of the 1922 Committee - the body representing all Tory MPs.
He told Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday: "We are now in a nonsense position, a pantomime position where it seems if you wish to apply a wide common-sense interpretation to the rules you can do, at least if you work in Number 10.
"It's ridiculous, it's got to stop and Dominic should go. If he doesn't resign, he will just be burning through Boris's political capital at a rate that we can ill-afford in the midst of this crisis."
He has not made a public statement since Mr Cummings' speech from the Downing Street rose garden.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 'Cummings has not abided by his own rules'
2. Peter Bone
The Tory MP for Wellingborough told Sky News on Sunday: "I'm certain he has to go."
"We can't really have a rule that applies to everyone except the government elite.
"He could have come out and apologised and said this was a bad mistake and I'm sorry about it and I shouldn't have done it. And I think he probably would have carried on.
"But to try and pretend he didn't break the rules just doesn't stand up to scrutiny."
He told Sky News on Tuesday Mr Cummings' statements the previous day "confirmed everything I thought".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:30 Peter Bone on Cummings: He's got to go
3. Simon Hoare
Speaking after Boris Johnson's full-throated defence of his senior adviser, Simon Hoare told the Daily Mail: "The PM's performance posed more questions than it answered.
"Any residual hope that this might die away in the next 24 hours is lost."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:20 'There is growing disquiet amongst ministers'
4. Damian Collins
Damian Collins, who found Mr Cummings in contempt of parliament for refusing to appear before the select committee he used to chair, said: "Dominic Cummings has a track record of believing that the rules don't apply to him and treating the scrutiny that should come to anyone in a position of authority with contempt.
"The government would be better without him."
Mr Collins confirmed on Tuesday he still holds those views.
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5. Tim Loughton
The East Worthing and Shoreham MP said many people "made the choice not to 'reinterpret' the lockdown rules" and it is "even more important that they are followed even more relentlessly by those responsible for making and enforcing them".
He explained: "It is with regret therefore that I have come to the conclusion that the position of Dominic Cummings is untenable as the chief adviser to the Government and he must resign or be removed.
"But his continuing in the role any longer can only undermine the authority of the Prime Minister and the Government at a time when both need to be completely focussed on getting the nation through the next stage of the Coronavirus crisis.
"I am also worried that a number of scientists providing expert advice to the Government have also expressed the concern that their work is at threat of being undermined."
Mr Loughton confirmed to Sky News on Tuesday he still wants Mr Cummings gone.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 'I behaved reasonably', says Cummings
6. Jason McCartney
The MP for Colne Valley posted on Facebook: "I fully acknowledge that the perceived hypocrisy of the rule makers potentially threatens the success of any future measures we may need to introduce if there is a second wave of coronavirus here in the UK.
"We must have confidence that we are doing the right things for the right reasons and that we are all truly in it together. For that reason I believe Mr Cummings' position is now untenable."
Mr McCartney told Sky News on Tuesday he holds the same view.
7. Sir Roger Gale
The Veteran Conservative Sir Roger Gale, who has served in parliament since 1983, said after the prime minister's news conference: "I'm very disappointed.
"I think it was an opportunity to put this to bed and I fear that now the story is simply going to run and run."
He restated his position after Mr Cummings' news conference, tweeting on Tuesday: "The time I think, has come for Mr Cummings to resign or for the PM to dispense of his services."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:17 'It's disappointing' say Durham residents
8. Craig Whittaker
Mr Cummings' position was branded "untenable" by Mr Whittaker, Calder Valley MP, who added: "You cannot advise the nation one thing then do the opposite."
He tweeted on Tuesday: "My view has not changed."
9. Julian Sturdy
"It is becoming increasingly clear that Dominic Cummings' position is no longer tenable," the York Outer MP tweeted on Monday.
"The government need to urgently refocus on our national priorities, namely our efforts to manage the COVID-19 outbreak."
Mr Sturdy told Sky News on Tuesday his position is unchanged.
It's humiliating and degrading to their office to see ministers put out agreed lines in defence of an adviser.
10. Caroline Nokes
A former Cabinet minister, Caroline Nokes said: "I made my views clear to my whip yesterday. There cannot be one rule for most of us and wriggle room for others.
"My inbox is rammed with very angry constituents and I do not blame them. They have made difficult sacrifices over the course of the last nine weeks."
Ms Nokes stood by her comments on Tuesday.
11. Sir Robert Syms
The Poole MP tweeted: "The government has to explain test, track and trace and the next phase of lifting lockdown next week.
"Whatever the merits of a government adviser, they should never be the story or it detracts from the central message which is to get us out of this crisis. The adviser should go."
He added on Tuesday to another colleague calling on Mr Cummings to resign they were "spot on".
Image: Up to 20 new Tory MPs are understood to be pushing for an inquiry
12. Paul Maynard
Former minister Paul Maynard said: "It is a classic case of 'do as I say, not as I do' - and it is not as if he was unfamiliar with guidance he himself helped draw up.
"It seems to me to be utterly indefensible and his position wholly untenable."
Mr Maynard said his position had not changed on Tuesday.
13. Martin Vickers
The Cleethorpes MP said Mr Cummings' "actions do undermine the message, which was very clear that people should stay at home".
"I'm afraid Mr Cummings has let the government and Mr Johnson down in that respect." he told Sky News. "He should have done the decent thing and stood down."
Mr Vickers confirmed to Sky News on Tuesday his position remains unchanged.
14. Peter Aldous
The Waveney MP since 2010 said his view had originally been sympathetic to Mr Cummings, but he has since revised his opinion.
He tweeted: "The government should recognise what families have gone through and what people are thinking and saying. It is thus important that Dominic Cummings should now stand down."
Mr Aldous told Sky News on Tuesday his thinking is still the same.
15. David Warbuton
Somerton and Frome MP David Warburton said on Monday Mr Cummings was "damaging the Government and the country that he's supposed to be serving".
He said his own father had died alone as a result of the coronavirus lockdown, adding: "People have made sacrifices, this is a difficult time, this is a time of national crisis."
Mr Warbuton said his views are "definitely unchanged if not firmer" when contacted by Sky News on Tuesday.
16. Bob Stewart
The MP for Beckenham said on Monday of Mr Cummings: "He certainly destroyed the spirit of the ruled by what he did.
"It will make it very difficult for us, the rest of the population, to accept the largely voluntary restraints we have lived under for nine weeks.
"I apologise for that because those rules remain in place and we should all still abide by them. I am afraid I believe his position is thus untenable."
Mr Stewart has been asked if he stands by his comments and has not retracted them in public posts made since.
17. John Stevenson
Carlisle MP John Stevenson said his constituents "and the country have sacrificed a lot over the last few weeks".
"People in positions of power have added responsibility - Mr Cummings holds such a position," he wrote. "Therefore in my view in the interests of the country Mr Cummings should resign."
Mr Stevenson confirmed to Sky News on Tuesday he still wants Mr Cummings go leave his post.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:17 Cummings 'could have' gone straight to London
18. William Wragg
William Wragg, who chairs a Commons select committee and sits on the executive of the 1922 group of all Tory MPs, said on Tuesday: "We cannot throw away valuable public and political good will any longer.
"It's humiliating and degrading to their office to see ministers put out agreed lines in defence of an adviser. This is a time of national emergency and our focus must be unrelenting. We owe it to the nation."
19. Douglas Ross
A junior Scotland Office minister resigned over the debacle, saying on Tuesday that: "While the intentions may have been well-meaning, the reaction to this news shows that Mr Cummings' interpretation of the government advice was not shared by the vast majority of people who have done as the government asked.
"I have constituents who didn't get to say goodbye to loved ones; families who could not mourn together; people who didn't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the government.
"I cannot in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior adviser to the government was right."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 The morning after: Cummings leaves home
20. Mark Pawsey
The Rugby and Bulkington MP wrote in a lengthy statement published on Tuesday: "I believe that it is wrong that Mr Cummings remains in an important post in government.
"I had hoped he that would tender his resignation of his own accord.
"As he has failed to do so, I now believe it is right for the prime minister to ask for his resignation.
"It is vital that public confidence must not be undermined by this episode."
21. Philip Davies
The Shipley MP said on Tuesday: "It is admirable of the prime minister to be loyal to his staff and seek to defend and support those who work for him.
"Dominic Cummings should now repay that loyalty to the prime minister by resigning his position for the good of the prime minister, the government and the country."
Image: A growing number of backbenchers are calling for the aide to go
22. Mark Harper
A former chief whip, the Forest of Dean MP said there was "no credible justification" for the Barnard Castle trip.
"Mr Cummings should have offered to resign and the PM should have accepted his resignation," he tweeted on Tuesday.
23. Mark Garnier
In a message sent to his constituents, the Wyre Forest MP said: "It is clear to me that despite his story, despite an element of politics in this, and despite his value to the government, his remaining in Number 10 now causes too many problems at multiple levels.
"For him to stay would be to reject the valiant efforts of millions of us all who have done what we can to squash this infection.
"His resignation is now the only way forward."
24. Stephen Hammond
In an email to constituents, the Wimbledon MP wrote: "I share much of the confusion and anger that so many constituents have expressed.
"I would have not made the decisions that he did. I have not seen my elderly parents since the beginning of March.
"I have always tried to do the best thing for Wimbledon and whilst I think it would be served by Mr Cummings leaving his role, I accept that is the prime minister's decision who he employs as a special adviser."
My father died of coronavirus and the pain and guilt of my being unable to visit him as he fought for his life will haunt me for the rest of my days.
25. Jeremy Wright
In a post on his website, the former cabinet minister said: "What is most important at this point is that government can give clear messages about how to defeat the virus and that everyone feels motivated to do their best to help.
"This is more important than the position of any individual in Downing Street and therefore, fairly or unfairly, I have concluded that it would be better for Mr Cummings to leave his position at Downing Street."
26. Elliot Colburn
The Carshalton and Wallington MP, who was only elected in December, said on Tuesday: "As we start to relax some of the lockdown measures, we must continue to stay alert in order to prevent a second wave of this virus.
"I fear this situation risks undermining those efforts, just when we are seeing a significant reduction in the number of tragic lives this virus has claimed.
"It is for these reasons, that I have written to the prime minister again today to express my view that Mr Cummings should resign."
27. Sir Robert Neill
The Bromley and Chislehurst MP, the chair of the House of Commons justice committee, said: "Although an adviser, not a minister or elected representative, Mr Cummings is, by virtue of his job, prominently in the public eye. We cannot have a suggestion of one rule for some and a different one for others.
"So I recognise and understand the real anger, hurt and disappointment that many people now feel.
"We cannot allow the economic, physical and emotional price that families and businesses have made to go to waste, and we cannot allow the key public health messages to be clouded."
28. Jackie Doyle-Price
The Thurrock MP said: "Frankly this has been a very embarrassing episode for the government.
"To bring this sorry chapter to an end I am afraid Mr Cummings has to go."
29. Harriett Baldwin
The West Worcestershire MP, a former government minister, said: "The government relies on moral authority to receive the consent of the people to such draconian reductions in their freedoms.
"Therefore, for the sake of future adherence to public health guidelines, I believe he should resign."
Image: Mr Cummings' three trips came while Britons were told to 'stay at home'
30. Laurence Robertson
The Tewkesbury MP said: "Like many others, I have found the rules to be personally heart-wrenching.
"On 5 May, my father died of coronavirus and the pain and guilt of my being unable to visit him as he fought for his life will haunt me for the rest of my days.
"I wouldn't wish this situation on anyone, but I know that many of my constituents have suffered in the same or similar ways.
"And given that we are fighting against a world-wide pandemic, we really do need to be all in this together.
"That means you, me, ministers and senior officials."
31. James Gray
The North Wiltshire MP said: "Over the next few difficult weeks and months we need the full confidence of the people if they are to agree to the steps which will be necessary to safeguard both their lives and for their livelihoods.
"And for that to happen they have to have full confidence in the Government which is asking them to do it.
"Mr Cummings's questionable behaviour has undermined that trust.
"It can only be rebuilt if he now departs the scene."
32. David Simmonds
In an email to a constituent seen by the PA news agency, the Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner MP wrote: "Whilst the facts of Mr Cummings's situation are disputed and there are ongoing investigations, it is important in my view not to engage in trial by media.
"However, I have conveyed the strength of feeling locally to relevant colleagues, and my own view, through the appropriate channels, that Mr Cummings should step down."
33. Giles Watling
The Clacton MP said: "This unfortunate episode now has the potential to negatively impact on the effectiveness of our collective response to COVID-19, and, I believe, the only way to restore the credibility of the government's guidance in the eyes of local residents is for Mr Cummings to stand down."
34. Pauline Latham
The Mid-Derbyshire MP said: "Whilst I am sympathetic to the stress of the situation he was in, as a husband and a parent, I do not believe his actions were appropriate."
35. Andrew Jones
The Harrogate and Knaresborough MP told his local newspaper: "It is difficult to see how someone so instrumental in drawing up the rules can then say that what we all understood them to be actually has a 'Yes, but...' in the small print when it comes to the choices he made."
36. Robert Largan
The High Peak MP said: "We can't have a position where it is one rule for the public and another for politicians."
37. Andrew Selous
The South West Bedfordshire MP said: "I believe that his behaviour has damaged the prime minister, the government and, most critically of all, the integrity of our vital public health messages.
"I therefore think he should no longer have a role in government as his continued presence makes the vital work of the government in tackling COVID-19 more difficult."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 PM gets grilling from MPs over Cummings
38. George Freeman
The Mid Norfolk MP tweeted: "After 48hrs & c1000 emails from constituents expressing outage at the PM's Chief of Staff breaking the lockdown & not apologising, it's clear that public anger at the betrayal of their trust & compliance now risks a collapse of respect for HMG public health advice. DC has to go."
39. Karen Bradley
The former Northern Ireland secretary said to constituents on Thursday: "I have read the stories of personal sacrifice you and many others have made.
"We expect those that lead us to lead by example, especially those with such a significant influence on government.
"I can reach no other conclusion than that for the sake of this country, Mr Cummings should do the right thing now and stop damaging the work that needs to be done."
40. Simon Jupp
The East Devon MP wrote in a blog post: "Although I believe his actions were motivated by a father's desire to do what he felt was necessary to protect his family in exceptional circumstances, if placed in the same situation I wouldn't have made the same decisions and would have since considered my position."
Sky News has also spoken to five more MPs - Robert Goodwill, Alec Shelbrooke, Henry Smith and Andrew Percy - who confirmed on Tuesday they want the adviser gone.
Sir David Amess has called for Mr Cummings to be "suspended from his office whilst a full and thorough independent investigation is held".
Privately, several more MPs - including senior ones - are voicing the same opinion, including one who told Sky News "this is our black Wednesday" - in reference to the 1992 financial crisis that stained the Conservatives' economic record.


news--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Debenhams negotiates reopening deal but hundreds of jobs will go

Debenhams says it has negotiated a deal with landlords allowing it to reopen most stores in June but admits some jobs will be lost as it grapples with administration .
The department store 's 142 UK sites are currently closed and it has been only trading online during the coronavirus lockdown .
But a spokesperson for the business told Sky News that the `` vast majority '' of these stores will reopen on 15 June , as government restrictions are eased .
They said : `` Debenhams ' preparations to reopen the vast majority of its stores from 15 June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conclusion of lease negotiations on 120 stores .
`` In the context of a retail industry undergoing profound change , the management team is working on the future shape of the group , with a view to seeking an exit from administration as a going concern .
`` With a leaner and more flexible operating model , Debenhams will have the ability to adapt to what are likely to be fundamental shifts in the future trading environment . ''
Debenhams stores in England are expected to open first , with Scotland , Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is understood that hundreds of jobs will be lost from its head office , which employed around 3,000 people before the closures .
Reuters , which first reported the job losses on Thursday , said all staff made redundant are currently furloughed under the government 's jobs retention scheme .
Some jobs based in store could also be axed , as the shops will initially open for shorter hours and with fewer services .
Last month Debenhams , which employs around 20,000 people , formally entered into administration for the second time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irish business , with 11 stores , would permanently cease trading .
The latest administration was designed to protect the business from creditors at a time when stores were shuttered because of the coronavirus crisis .
Chief executive Stefaan Vansteenkiste said at the time that it aimed to be `` in a position to resume trading from our stores when government restrictions are lifted '' .

Debenhams says it has negotiated a deal with landlords allowing it to reopen most stores in June but admits some jobs will be lost as it grapples with administration.
The department store's 142 UK sites are currently closed and it has been only trading online during the coronavirus lockdown.
But a spokesperson for the business told Sky News that the "vast majority" of these stores will reopen on 15 June, as government restrictions are eased.
They said: "Debenhams' preparations to reopen the vast majority of its stores from 15 June are well under way following the successful conclusion of lease negotiations on 120 stores.
"In the context of a retail industry undergoing profound change, the management team is working on the future shape of the group, with a view to seeking an exit from administration as a going concern.
"With a leaner and more flexible operating model, Debenhams will have the ability to adapt to what are likely to be fundamental shifts in the future trading environment."
Debenhams stores in England are expected to open first, with Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland following soon afterwards.
It is understood that hundreds of jobs will be lost from its head office, which employed around 3,000 people before the closures.
Reuters, which first reported the job losses on Thursday, said all staff made redundant are currently furloughed under the government's jobs retention scheme.
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Some jobs based in store could also be axed, as the shops will initially open for shorter hours and with fewer services.
Last month Debenhams, which employs around 20,000 people, formally entered into administration for the second time in a year and announced that its Irish business, with 11 stores, would permanently cease trading.
The latest administration was designed to protect the business from creditors at a time when stores were shuttered because of the coronavirus crisis.
Chief executive Stefaan Vansteenkiste said at the time that it aimed to be "in a position to resume trading from our stores when government restrictions are lifted".


news--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Another 377 people with COVID-19 die in UK as total passes 37,800

Another 377 people have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK , bringing the total number to 37,837 .
The figures from the Department of Health cover coronavirus-related deaths in all settings , including hospitals , care homes and the community .
The latest deaths were reported in a 24-hour period up to 5pm on Wednesday and take the total up from 37,460 .
NHS England announced 185 new deaths of COVID-19 patients in its hospitals , taking the total there to 26,234 .
Another 14 coronavirus deaths were confirmed in Wales , bringing the country 's overall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recorded in Northern Ireland to take its total to 518 .
New figures from the National Records of Scotland have also been published , with the latest revealing some 3,779 fatalities with COVID-19 mentioned on the death certificate have now been registered .
Between 18 to 24 May , 230 deaths were registered - a decrease of 105 from the previous week , marking the fourth consecutive week the numbers have fallen in Scotland .
On testing , the Department for Health said 119,587 coronavirus tests had been carried out or sent out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Thursday - and 1,887 of those came back positive .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But for the sixth day running , the precise number of people tested was not released due to `` technical difficulties '' .
The UK is approaching four million total COVID-19 tests , with 3,918,079 having now been carried out .
Of those , 269,127 have come back positive .
The only country with more coronavirus-related deaths than the UK is the US , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official figures being tracked by Johns Hopkins University .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Another 377 people have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK, bringing the total number to 37,837.
The figures from the Department of Health cover coronavirus-related deaths in all settings, including hospitals, care homes and the community.
The latest deaths were reported in a 24-hour period up to 5pm on Wednesday and take the total up from 37,460.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 People in England will be allowed to meet outside, including in gardens, in groups of six from next week
NHS England announced 185 new deaths of COVID-19 patients in its hospitals, taking the total there to 26,234.
Another 14 coronavirus deaths were confirmed in Wales, bringing the country's overall number to 1,307.
Two more were recorded in Northern Ireland to take its total to 518.
New figures from the National Records of Scotland have also been published, with the latest revealing some 3,779 fatalities with COVID-19 mentioned on the death certificate have now been registered.
Between 18 to 24 May, 230 deaths were registered - a decrease of 105 from the previous week, marking the fourth consecutive week the numbers have fallen in Scotland.
On testing, the Department for Health said 119,587 coronavirus tests had been carried out or sent out in the 24-hour period up to 9am on Thursday - and 1,887 of those came back positive.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But for the sixth day running, the precise number of people tested was not released due to "technical difficulties".
The UK is approaching four million total COVID-19 tests, with 3,918,079 having now been carried out.
Of those, 269,127 have come back positive.
The only country with more coronavirus-related deaths than the UK is the US, where 100,651 people have died, according to official figures being tracked by Johns Hopkins University.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: Johnson hints at pubs opening before July as lockdown measures ease

Boris Johnson is announcing his second major review of coronavirus lockdown rules , 66 days after he introduced them in late March .
But growing numbers of Tory MPs are claiming his review has been undermined by his refusal to sack his aide Dominic Cummings for breaking the rules .
The number of Conservative MPs demanding Mr Cummings ' dismissal is now approaching 50 , with many more publicly criticising his actions .
The former chancellor Sajid Javid said Mr Cummings 's trip to Durham was neither `` necessary or justified '' and he should apologise .
And the Paymaster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to speak out , claiming the row was undermining public health messages .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The prime minister is expected to give the all-clear for schools in England to begin reopening next Monday and non-essential shops a fortnight later , on 15 June .
But during a 99-minute interrogation by the Liaison Committee of senior MPs , dominated by clashes over Mr Cummings , he hinted there could also be good news on pubs and restaurants .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go as fast as we can '' to reopen the hospitality industry , which in the previous review on 7 May he said he hoped would happen on 3 July .
`` It is very difficult to bring forward hospitality measures in a way that involves social distancing , '' he told the Liaison Committee during questions on reopening the economy .
`` But I 'm much more optimistic about that than I was .
We may be able to do things faster than I had previously thought . ''
The PM also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule could soon be reduced to enable businesses such as pubs and restaurants to reopen faster .
He said he had asked the government 's scientific advisers to look again at the guidance and was optimistic `` we will be able to reduce that distance '' as the coronavirus lockdown is lifted .
Downing Street has revealed that the next steps in easing the lockdown in England are likely to be unveiled at the daily news conference , likely to be fronted by the prime minister .
But it was emphasised that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deadline would not be made until after ministers considered evidence from the SAGE group of scientific experts .
Key to ensuring the restrictions can be safely relaxed is keeping down the so-called R rate , the average number of people to whom an infected individual transmits the disease .
Mr Johnson told the Liaison Committee `` not everybody will go back '' on day one of the phased reopening of schools next week , but insisted it was safe provided everybody remembered guidelines on social distancing and hand washing .
It has also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` increase social contact '' two households will be able to meet outdoors from next month .
That would mean it would be possible to enjoy a picnic in a public space with another family or visit friends in a garden .
But the prime minister , who repeatedly told the Liaison Committee it was `` time to move on '' from the Cummings row , will be worried that criticism of his close aide is continuing to grow and now being joined by senior figures .
Calling on Mr Cummings to issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I do not believe Mr Cummings ' journey to County Durham to isolate on his family 's estate was necessary or justified .
`` I remain unconvinced his visit to Barnard Castle could be considered reasonable .
`` I was also deeply concerned by his decision to return to Downing Street directly after coming into contact with a family member who was ill , potentially with coronavirus . ''
Ms Mordaunt , sacked from the cabinet by Mr Johnson when he became PM but brought back into government after the election , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's account of events and his reasons .
`` There is no doubt he took risks - refuelling at a petrol station is a risk to oneself and to others , which presumably he did , '' she said .
`` What is clear is that the scenes of the last few days will have undermined key public health messages .
I deeply regret this and am very sorry for it . ''
Earlier , during the Liaison Committee , Mr Johnson rejected calls from MPs for an inquiry by the Cabinet Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frankly I 'm not certain that an inquiry is a good use of official time , '' the prime minister said , claiming Sir Mark was busy dealing with the coronavirus pandemic .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Boris Johnson is announcing his second major review of coronavirus lockdown rules, 66 days after he introduced them in late March.
But growing numbers of Tory MPs are claiming his review has been undermined by his refusal to sack his aide Dominic Cummings for breaking the rules.
The number of Conservative MPs demanding Mr Cummings' dismissal is now approaching 50, with many more publicly criticising his actions.
The former chancellor Sajid Javid said Mr Cummings's trip to Durham was neither "necessary or justified" and he should apologise.
And the Paymaster General Penny Mordaunt became the first minister to speak out, claiming the row was undermining public health messages.
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
The prime minister is expected to give the all-clear for schools in England to begin reopening next Monday and non-essential shops a fortnight later, on 15 June.
But during a 99-minute interrogation by the Liaison Committee of senior MPs, dominated by clashes over Mr Cummings, he hinted there could also be good news on pubs and restaurants.
He said the government was "trying to go as fast as we can" to reopen the hospitality industry, which in the previous review on 7 May he said he hoped would happen on 3 July.
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"It is very difficult to bring forward hospitality measures in a way that involves social distancing," he told the Liaison Committee during questions on reopening the economy.
"But I'm much more optimistic about that than I was. We may be able to do things faster than I had previously thought."
The PM also said he hoped the two-metre social distancing rule could soon be reduced to enable businesses such as pubs and restaurants to reopen faster.
He said he had asked the government's scientific advisers to look again at the guidance and was optimistic "we will be able to reduce that distance" as the coronavirus lockdown is lifted.
Downing Street has revealed that the next steps in easing the lockdown in England are likely to be unveiled at the daily news conference, likely to be fronted by the prime minister.
But it was emphasised that the final decision before the latest three-week legal deadline would not be made until after ministers considered evidence from the SAGE group of scientific experts.
Key to ensuring the restrictions can be safely relaxed is keeping down the so-called R rate, the average number of people to whom an infected individual transmits the disease.
Mr Johnson told the Liaison Committee "not everybody will go back" on day one of the phased reopening of schools next week, but insisted it was safe provided everybody remembered guidelines on social distancing and hand washing.
It has also been reported that under new plans to "increase social contact" two households will be able to meet outdoors from next month.
That would mean it would be possible to enjoy a picnic in a public space with another family or visit friends in a garden.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 PM gets grilling from MPs over Cummings
But the prime minister, who repeatedly told the Liaison Committee it was "time to move on" from the Cummings row, will be worried that criticism of his close aide is continuing to grow and now being joined by senior figures.
Calling on Mr Cummings to issue an apology, Mr Javid said: "I do not believe Mr Cummings' journey to County Durham to isolate on his family's estate was necessary or justified.
"I remain unconvinced his visit to Barnard Castle could be considered reasonable.
"I was also deeply concerned by his decision to return to Downing Street directly after coming into contact with a family member who was ill, potentially with coronavirus."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:36 Public have their say on Dominic Cummings
Ms Mordaunt, sacked from the cabinet by Mr Johnson when he became PM but brought back into government after the election, said there were inconsistencies in Mr Cummings's account of events and his reasons.
"There is no doubt he took risks - refuelling at a petrol station is a risk to oneself and to others, which presumably he did," she said.
"What is clear is that the scenes of the last few days will have undermined key public health messages. I deeply regret this and am very sorry for it."
Earlier, during the Liaison Committee, Mr Johnson rejected calls from MPs for an inquiry by the Cabinet Secretary, Sir Mark Sedwill.
"Quite frankly I'm not certain that an inquiry is a good use of official time," the prime minister said, claiming Sir Mark was busy dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Striking photos show ghost towns and cities returning to new normal

The coronavirus pandemic is often called the invisible killer but its visual impact on towns and cities is obvious .
Just as the COVID-19 lockdown turned many busy locations into near empty streets , some are now seeing an opposite transformation .
Bournemouth beach stood almost empty on 5 April , two weeks after the UK - one of the world 's worst hit countries - enforced a nationwide lockdown .
The same shoreline was packed with sunseekers on 26 May as the British public took advantage of the eased coronavirus restrictions , which let people spend time outdoors with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Italy is also among the worst affected countries , with least 33,000 deaths .
The photos below were captured in Turin 's Piazza Vittorio Veneto on 10 March , a day after the country 's lockdown was imposed , and on 23 May when restaurants , bars , cafes and hairdressers were able to reopen - albeit with social distancing measures .
In Greece , churches were forced to cease live services after the country locked down on 22 March .
Empty seats were snapped in Athens during the procession of Jesus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 17 April .
One month later , Orthodox churchgoers returned to the city 's holy sites to attend the first services after measures were eased .
Vietnam has recorded no deaths from coronavirus and just 327 cases , despite being considerably poorer than many other Asian countries and sharing a border with China , where the virus originated .
Below , a usually-crowded road with no traffic can be seen , with a three-wheel cycle driver encapsulating an eerily quiet Hanoi during lockdown on 17 March .
Fast forward to rush hour on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full force , after the lockdown was relaxed .
Ratchada Railway Night Market in Bangkok was stripped of its bustling activity , along with the rest of the huge city , when the country was locked down in late March .
The first photo below of the venue was taken on 1 April , and the second on 15 May when the markets returned .
Thailand has also had a relatively low number of coronavirus cases ( 3,065 ) and deaths ( 57 ) .
It is gradually easing its restrictions as daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early May .
The first photograph below shows an empty classroom in a secondary school in Bonn , Germany , on 13 March as authorities were debating if schools should close .
Teachers are then pictured giving lessons at the same school after it reopened on 23 April , with social distancing measures in place .
Germany has loosened restrictions , but people are still told to wear masks and avoid groups .
A lone man was photographed on 8 May cycling along a boardwalk in Ocean City , Maryland in the US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 100,000 deaths - just one day before restrictions were relaxed there .
A very different atmosphere was captured at the same boardwalk on 23 May , during Memorial Day weekend .
Below is another pair of photos from Italy , taken in Milan 's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II .
The first one was snapped on 8 March , after the government locked down the north of the country , and the second on 18 May .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

The coronavirus pandemic is often called the invisible killer but its visual impact on towns and cities is obvious.
Just as the COVID-19 lockdown turned many busy locations into near empty streets, some are now seeing an opposite transformation.
Bournemouth beach stood almost empty on 5 April, two weeks after the UK - one of the world's worst hit countries - enforced a nationwide lockdown.
The same shoreline was packed with sunseekers on 26 May as the British public took advantage of the eased coronavirus restrictions, which let people spend time outdoors with at least one person outside their household.
Image: Bournemouth beach on 5 April...
Image: ...and on 26 May
Italy is also among the worst affected countries, with least 33,000 deaths.
The photos below were captured in Turin's Piazza Vittorio Veneto on 10 March, a day after the country's lockdown was imposed, and on 23 May when restaurants, bars, cafes and hairdressers were able to reopen - albeit with social distancing measures.
Image: Turin's Piazza Vittorio Veneto on 10 March...
Image: ... and on 23 May
In Greece, churches were forced to cease live services after the country locked down on 22 March. Empty seats were snapped in Athens during the procession of Jesus Christ's Deposition from the Cross on 17 April.
One month later, Orthodox churchgoers returned to the city's holy sites to attend the first services after measures were eased.
Image: A church in Athens on 17 April...
Image: ... and on 17 May
Vietnam has recorded no deaths from coronavirus and just 327 cases, despite being considerably poorer than many other Asian countries and sharing a border with China, where the virus originated.
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Below, a usually-crowded road with no traffic can be seen, with a three-wheel cycle driver encapsulating an eerily quiet Hanoi during lockdown on 17 March.
Fast forward to rush hour on 25 May and traffic jams were in full force, after the lockdown was relaxed.
Image: A square in Hanoi, Vietnam on 17 March...
Image: ... and on 25 May
Ratchada Railway Night Market in Bangkok was stripped of its bustling activity, along with the rest of the huge city, when the country was locked down in late March.
The first photo below of the venue was taken on 1 April, and the second on 15 May when the markets returned.
Thailand has also had a relatively low number of coronavirus cases (3,065) and deaths (57). It is gradually easing its restrictions as daily new infections fell to single digits in early May.
Image: Bangkok's Ratchada Railway Night Market on 1 April...
Image: ... and on 15 May
The first photograph below shows an empty classroom in a secondary school in Bonn, Germany, on 13 March as authorities were debating if schools should close.
Teachers are then pictured giving lessons at the same school after it reopened on 23 April, with social distancing measures in place. Germany has loosened restrictions, but people are still told to wear masks and avoid groups.
Image: A school in Bonn, Germany on 13 March...
Image: ... and the same school on 23 April
A lone man was photographed on 8 May cycling along a boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland in the US - the worst affected country with more than 100,000 deaths - just one day before restrictions were relaxed there.
A very different atmosphere was captured at the same boardwalk on 23 May, during Memorial Day weekend.
Image: A boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland on 8 May...
Image: ... and on 23 May
Below is another pair of photos from Italy, taken in Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The first one was snapped on 8 March, after the government locked down the north of the country, and the second on 18 May.
Image: Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II on 8 March...
Image: ... and on 18 May
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk