news--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: TfL lays bare £4bn loss in race to secure Whitehall bailout

London 's transport system is braced to record a £4bn loss this year , underlining the urgency of the capital 's efforts to access emergency funding from the government in order to keep bus and Tube services running .
Sky News can reveal that Transport for London ( TfL ) has projected the massive annual deficit in its finances as it burns through roughly £600m every month during the COVID-19 crisis .
The financial headache confronting TfL - which is chaired by the London mayor , Sadiq Khan - comes as the authority enters last-ditch talks with the government about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to amount to more than £1.5bn .
The anticipated £4bn loss was disclosed for the first time in finance committee papers published on TfL 's website ahead of a crucial meeting on Tuesday .
It said it had prepared a proposed emergency budget `` as an interim measure until we can propose a revised budget later in the year '' .
That would involve `` prioritising only what is essential for maintenance of basic services to support COVID-19 government planning and safety-related activities , ensuring our employees and contracted employees remain safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , TfL said the sum needed to `` balance our proposed emergency budget for 2020-21 is around £3.2bn , and TfL is in ongoing discussions around how this should be funded with the Department for Transport and HM Treasury '' .
The transport authority has put 7,000 of its staff on furlough , in order to access government money to subsidise their wages .
It has also halted 300 construction projects .
`` These savings can not , however , cover the loss from the steep decline in revenue , which for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £4bn , '' it said .
The finance committee paper said TfL had suffered an overall income loss of around 90 % because of the pandemic .
Ministers have little choice but to agree to the mayor 's bailout plea , given the extent to which London 's economy relies on its transport system functioning reliably .
The Sunday Times reported at the weekend that government funding would come with strict conditions attached , including the curtailment of projects such as the proposed extension to the Bakerloo line .
In the document released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it had modelled longer term revenue scenarios , adding that it had spent £6bn with suppliers in its current financial year .
`` Without a stable source of income or funding during the COVID-19 pandemic our supply chain will not be able to gain adequate assurance that TfL will be able to fund their future commitments , '' it said .
News of the full impact of the coronavirus pandemic 's impact on TfL 's finances comes as the network prepares for large numbers of passengers to return on a daily basis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers should resume their jobs from Wednesday .
TfL asked commuters to `` reimagine their journeys where possible '' , including walking or cycling as alternatives to public transport .
`` Even with only 5 % of journeys currently being made on the Tube , there are certain times and locations where social distancing is already very difficult , '' TfL said on Monday .
`` The challenge in managing social distancing will become greater as , over time , more people who can not work from home return to using the network @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have done everything possible to help reduce the spread of coronavirus by working with the Government to rapidly reduce ridership to low levels not seen for 100 years while keeping transport available for essential journeys , such as NHS or supermarket staff heading to work .
`` But it is clear that the long-term impact of the coronavirus will mean that we need financial support now and into the future so that we can support the recovery of London and the UK .
`` We are in constructive discussions with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a successful conclusion to these is now extremely urgent . ''

London's transport system is braced to record a £4bn loss this year, underlining the urgency of the capital's efforts to access emergency funding from the government in order to keep bus and Tube services running.
Sky News can reveal that Transport for London (TfL) has projected the massive annual deficit in its finances as it burns through roughly £600m every month during the COVID-19 crisis.
The financial headache confronting TfL - which is chaired by the London mayor, Sadiq Khan - comes as the authority enters last-ditch talks with the government about rescue funding that Whitehall sources say is likely to amount to more than £1.5bn.
Image: A man is seen cleaning an Oyster card machine at a Tube station in the capital
The anticipated £4bn loss was disclosed for the first time in finance committee papers published on TfL's website ahead of a crucial meeting on Tuesday.
It said it had prepared a proposed emergency budget "as an interim measure until we can propose a revised budget later in the year".
That would involve "prioritising only what is essential for maintenance of basic services to support COVID-19 government planning and safety-related activities, ensuring our employees and contracted employees remain safe".
In the finance committee document, TfL said the sum needed to "balance our proposed emergency budget for 2020-21 is around £3.2bn, and TfL is in ongoing discussions around how this should be funded with the Department for Transport and HM Treasury".
The transport authority has put 7,000 of its staff on furlough, in order to access government money to subsidise their wages.
It has also halted 300 construction projects.
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"These savings cannot, however, cover the loss from the steep decline in revenue, which for the full year is anticipated to be over £4bn," it said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 Tube packed day after PM's speech
The finance committee paper said TfL had suffered an overall income loss of around 90% because of the pandemic.
Ministers have little choice but to agree to the mayor's bailout plea, given the extent to which London's economy relies on its transport system functioning reliably.
The Sunday Times reported at the weekend that government funding would come with strict conditions attached, including the curtailment of projects such as the proposed extension to the Bakerloo line.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:11 Khan wants face masks on the Tube
In the document released on Monday, TfL's finance committee said it had modelled longer term revenue scenarios, adding that it had spent £6bn with suppliers in its current financial year.
"Without a stable source of income or funding during the COVID-19 pandemic our supply chain will not be able to gain adequate assurance that TfL will be able to fund their future commitments," it said.
News of the full impact of the coronavirus pandemic's impact on TfL's finances comes as the network prepares for large numbers of passengers to return on a daily basis following the government's recommendation that many workers should resume their jobs from Wednesday.
TfL asked commuters to "reimagine their journeys where possible", including walking or cycling as alternatives to public transport.
"Even with only 5% of journeys currently being made on the Tube, there are certain times and locations where social distancing is already very difficult," TfL said on Monday.
"The challenge in managing social distancing will become greater as, over time, more people who cannot work from home return to using the network."
A TfL spokesperson said: "We have done everything possible to help reduce the spread of coronavirus by working with the Government to rapidly reduce ridership to low levels not seen for 100 years while keeping transport available for essential journeys, such as NHS or supermarket staff heading to work.
"But it is clear that the long-term impact of the coronavirus will mean that we need financial support now and into the future so that we can support the recovery of London and the UK.
"We are in constructive discussions with the government over the necessary financial support, and a successful conclusion to these is now extremely urgent."


news--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Government publishes guidance on how to make face coverings using old T-shirts

Britons are now being advised to wear face masks on public transport and in some shops where social distancing is not possible .
After weeks of insisting that there was little scientific evidence to suggest that such coverings were effective in preventing the spread of coronavirus , the government has changed its advice .
The updated guidance has been published in a 50-page blueprint for lifting the UK out of lockdown , expanding on a speech from Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday night that many had said was confusing .
Details included in `` Our Plan to Rebuild : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' suggest people should wear face-coverings in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible and where they come into contact with others who they do not normally meet , such as on public transport or in some shops .
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had recommended face coverings be worn in `` enclosed spaces '' last month , contradicting the message consistently put forward at the daily Downing Street news briefings .
Transport For London had also already advised those still reliant on buses and the Tube network to wear face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who need to go to work to walk or cycle where possible .
So as not to place added pressure on supplies needed by NHS staff and care home workers , the government has issued instructions for making face masks at home , using elastic bands and cotton fabric or an old T-shirt .
Here 's how to make one with an old T-shirt : First , cut a straight line across the width of the T-shirt ( front and back ) approximately 20cm from the bottom .
From a point 2cm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fabric , make a 15cm horizontal cut through both sides of the fabric that is parallel to the top of the rectangle .
Cut down towards the bottom of the fabric until you reach approximately 2cm above the bottom edge .
From here , make another 15cm cut that runs parallel to the bottom of the fabric to make a rectangle that can be discarded .
To make the ties , cut open the edge of the two long strips of fabric .
Unfold the main piece of fabric and place over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strips act as ties to hold the cloth face covering in place and should be tied behind the head and around the neck .
Here 's how to make one with cotton fabric and elastic bands : You will need two 25cm x 25cm squares of cotton fabric , two 20cm pieces of elastic ( or string or cloth strips ) , scissors , and needle and thread .
First , cut out two 25cm x 25cm squares of cotton fabric and stack the two squares on top of each other .
Fold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hem , then repeat on the opposite side .
Make two channels by folding the double layer of fabric over 1.5cm along each side and stitching this down .
Run a 20cm length of elastic ( or string or cloth strip ) through the wider hem on each side of the covering - these will be the ear loops .
Use a large needle to thread it through , before tying the ends tightly .
If you only have string , you can make the ties longer and tie the covering behind your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pull on the elastic so that the knots are tucked inside the hem .
Gather the sides of the covering on the elastic and adjust so the covering fits your face , and then securely stitch the elastic in place to keep it from slipping .
These elastic loops fit over the ears .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Public Health England says people could also use a scarf or bandana as an alternative to a homemade mask .
In any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or use hand sanitiser before putting them on and taking them off .
• Avoid touching your eyes , nose or mouth at all times .
• Store used face coverings in a plastic bag until they can be washed .
• Do not touch the front of the covering or the part that has been in contact with your mouth and nose .
• Wash the covering regularly - it can go in with other laundry , using normal detergent .
Why is the government now advising people to wear face coverings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ careful consideration of the latest scientific evidence from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) '' , the Department of Health ( DoH ) said .
It said face coverings can help `` reduce the risk of transmission '' of coronavirus `` in some circumstances '' .
They do not need to be worn outdoors , or while exercising , in schools , or in workplaces such as offices and retail , according to the DoH .
They also do not need to be worn by people who may find them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aged under two , primary school children who can not use them without assistance , or by people who may have problems breathing while wearing a face covering .
England 's chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , said wearing a face covering was `` an added precaution that may have some benefit in reducing the likelihood that a person with the infection passes it on '' .
But he added : `` The most effective means of preventing the spread of this virus remains following social distancing rules and washing your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remove the need to self-isolate if you have symptoms . ''
How do face coverings help reduce the spread of coronavirus ?
COVID-19 can be spread directly by droplets from coughs , sneezes and speaking .
Evidence shows face coverings can help in reducing the spread of droplets and therefore potentially infecting others , the DoH said .
This could help to reduce the spread of infection as lockdown measures start to be lifted , it added .
The government says it will not be supplying face coverings because home items and fabrics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make them .
It also stresses that it is important to wash face coverings after every use .
Research from the World Health Organisation showed that where masks were recommended for prolonged periods of time , some wearers failed to maintain good handwashing practices or follow social distancing policies , the DoH warned .
But a spokesman added : `` As England has demonstrated strong adherence to social distancing , the government is confident face coverings can be recommended as an added precaution in certain environments rather than an essential part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the government 's chief scientific adviser , Sir Patrick Vallance , are among the senior government figures to have previously downplayed the effectiveness of face coverings .
However , they have been mandated by some European countries including Italy and France .
Dr Brian McCloskey , former director of global health at Public Health England , told Sky News he had not seen any change in the scientific evidence to suggest that face coverings are effective .
But he acknowledged that they may be more useful in helping people feel at ease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wearing a face covering is very unlikely to stop you getting infected , '' he said .
`` There is slightly more evidence that you could stop infecting someone else , but if you are symptomatic then you should n't be travelling in the first place . ''

Britons are now being advised to wear face masks on public transport and in some shops where social distancing is not possible.
After weeks of insisting that there was little scientific evidence to suggest that such coverings were effective in preventing the spread of coronavirus, the government has changed its advice.
The updated guidance has been published in a 50-page blueprint for lifting the UK out of lockdown, expanding on a speech from Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday night that many had said was confusing.
Details included in "Our Plan to Rebuild: The UK Government's COVID-19 recovery strategy" suggest people should wear face-coverings in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible and where they come into contact with others who they do not normally meet, such as on public transport or in some shops.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had recommended face coverings be worn in "enclosed spaces" last month, contradicting the message consistently put forward at the daily Downing Street news briefings.
Transport For London had also already advised those still reliant on buses and the Tube network to wear face masks, although the government is urging people who need to go to work to walk or cycle where possible.
So as not to place added pressure on supplies needed by NHS staff and care home workers, the government has issued instructions for making face masks at home, using elastic bands and cotton fabric or an old T-shirt.
Here's how to make one with an old T-shirt:
First, cut a straight line across the width of the T-shirt (front and back) approximately 20cm from the bottom.
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From a point 2cm below the top right-hand corner of the fabric, make a 15cm horizontal cut through both sides of the fabric that is parallel to the top of the rectangle.
Cut down towards the bottom of the fabric until you reach approximately 2cm above the bottom edge. From here, make another 15cm cut that runs parallel to the bottom of the fabric to make a rectangle that can be discarded.
To make the ties, cut open the edge of the two long strips of fabric.
Unfold the main piece of fabric and place over the mouth and the nose. The four strips act as ties to hold the cloth face covering in place and should be tied behind the head and around the neck.
Here's how to make one with cotton fabric and elastic bands:
You will need two 25cm x 25cm squares of cotton fabric, two 20cm pieces of elastic (or string or cloth strips), scissors, and needle and thread.
First, cut out two 25cm x 25cm squares of cotton fabric and stack the two squares on top of each other.
Fold over one side by 3/4 cm and hem, then repeat on the opposite side.
Make two channels by folding the double layer of fabric over 1.5cm along each side and stitching this down.
Run a 20cm length of elastic (or string or cloth strip) through the wider hem on each side of the covering - these will be the ear loops.
Use a large needle to thread it through, before tying the ends tightly.
If you only have string, you can make the ties longer and tie the covering behind your head.
Then you need to gently pull on the elastic so that the knots are tucked inside the hem.
Gather the sides of the covering on the elastic and adjust so the covering fits your face, and then securely stitch the elastic in place to keep it from slipping. These elastic loops fit over the ears.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Public Health England says people could also use a scarf or bandana as an alternative to a homemade mask.
In any case, people should wash their hands or use hand sanitiser before putting them on and taking them off.
Additional advice includes:
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth at all times.
Store used face coverings in a plastic bag until they can be washed.
Do not touch the front of the covering or the part that has been in contact with your mouth and nose.
Wash the covering regularly - it can go in with other laundry, using normal detergent.
Image: People wearing face masks in Edinburgh
Why is the government now advising people to wear face coverings?
The change in advice follows "careful consideration of the latest scientific evidence from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE)", the Department of Health (DoH) said.
It said face coverings can help "reduce the risk of transmission" of coronavirus "in some circumstances".
They do not need to be worn outdoors, or while exercising, in schools, or in workplaces such as offices and retail, according to the DoH.
They also do not need to be worn by people who may find them difficult to wear, such as children aged under two, primary school children who cannot use them without assistance, or by people who may have problems breathing while wearing a face covering.
Image: Face coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission 'in some circumstances', the government says
England's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said wearing a face covering was "an added precaution that may have some benefit in reducing the likelihood that a person with the infection passes it on".
But he added: "The most effective means of preventing the spread of this virus remains following social distancing rules and washing your hands regularly.
"It does not remove the need to self-isolate if you have symptoms."
How do face coverings help reduce the spread of coronavirus?
COVID-19 can be spread directly by droplets from coughs, sneezes and speaking.
Evidence shows face coverings can help in reducing the spread of droplets and therefore potentially infecting others, the DoH said.
This could help to reduce the spread of infection as lockdown measures start to be lifted, it added.
The government says it will not be supplying face coverings because home items and fabrics which are readily available can be used to make them.
It also stresses that it is important to wash face coverings after every use.
Image: A 3D model shows how particles can spread when a person coughs in a supermarket. Pic: Aalto University
Research from the World Health Organisation showed that where masks were recommended for prolonged periods of time, some wearers failed to maintain good handwashing practices or follow social distancing policies, the DoH warned.
But a spokesman added: "As England has demonstrated strong adherence to social distancing, the government is confident face coverings can be recommended as an added precaution in certain environments rather than an essential part of social distancing policies."
Professor Whitty and the government's chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, are among the senior government figures to have previously downplayed the effectiveness of face coverings.
However, they have been mandated by some European countries including Italy and France.
Dr Brian McCloskey, former director of global health at Public Health England, told Sky News he had not seen any change in the scientific evidence to suggest that face coverings are effective.
But he acknowledged that they may be more useful in helping people feel at ease when out of the house.
"Wearing a face covering is very unlikely to stop you getting infected," he said.
"There is slightly more evidence that you could stop infecting someone else, but if you are symptomatic then you shouldn't be travelling in the first place."


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: Family use lockdown to clean gravestones

A family in Cheshire are using their daily exercise to clean up gravestones at the local cemetery .
Ryan van Emmenis and his children , from Winsford , have cleaned more than 20 gravestones since the coronavirus lockdown began in March .
The idea started when a friend of his posted a picture of his sister 's grave on social media - which Mr van Emmenis saw had become weathered - and offered to go and clean it .
`` I thought ' I can do this more ' , '' he said .
`` When I 'm out on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ churches and there are some really old headstones and tombstones .
`` I thought ' I 'll just take out a little brush , some cleaning products and as I pass when I stop for my little break I 'll have a little drink of my water and do a bit each day ' .
`` You see results and you 're like 'oh , this is great ' so I just wanted to keep doing it . ''
Mr van Emmenis , who owns a cleaning company , said that each stone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clean , but thinks he spends roughly an hour on each one - spread out over three or four visits .
He has since recruited his children - 12-year-old Brooke , Lana , four , and Larsson , three , to share the workload .
`` It 's good for the children to learn a little bit of history but also respect their environment , '' the 37-year-old said .
`` As young as they are , they can still get involved and they can still help .
Obviously they do n't do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can do the brushing .
`` They 're quite good at it , to be fair . ''
Encouraged by his wife , Hayley , he then began to clean headstones in other local graveyards , which were looking a little older .
`` You 've got to be respectful of the fact that it 's someone 's family member , it 's someone 's memories , '' he said .
`` You 've got to make sure you 're using the right products and you 're being careful and delicate with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm cleaning are over 100 years old .
And algae , moss etc can have a really negative impact on them so you 've got to be really careful . ''
He has now linked up with the vicar of a local church to decide which stones to work on .
Since posting photographs online , his work has been shared widely on social media - prompting family members to get in touch and thank him .
He said : `` I had some feedback from people saying they were really grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was family members and they had n't visited the grave for 20 years , they 'd been unable to .
`` Someone used the term 'you 're bringing memories back to people ' .
`` When a grave is dull and it 's got algae on it and you ca n't read it , there 's nobody seems to give it much time if they do n't know the person .
`` Once you 've cleaned up one of these graves , it 's really noticeable , which means people are stopping and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these people . ''
Despite having access to products no readily available to the public , Mr van Emmenis says that good old soap and water will do the trick .
`` A little bit of patience , care and attention and a soft bristled brush with a bit of soapy water will do a fantastic job , '' he said .

A family in Cheshire are using their daily exercise to clean up gravestones at the local cemetery.
Ryan van Emmenis and his children, from Winsford, have cleaned more than 20 gravestones since the coronavirus lockdown began in March.
The idea started when a friend of his posted a picture of his sister's grave on social media - which Mr van Emmenis saw had become weathered - and offered to go and clean it.
Image: He enlisted his children to give him a hand. Pic: Ryan van Emmenis
"I thought 'I can do this more'," he said. "When I'm out on my walks I pass a couple of churches and there are some really old headstones and tombstones.
"I thought 'I'll just take out a little brush, some cleaning products and as I pass when I stop for my little break I'll have a little drink of my water and do a bit each day'.
"You see results and you're like 'oh, this is great' so I just wanted to keep doing it."
Mr van Emmenis, who owns a cleaning company, said that each stone takes a different amount of time to clean, but thinks he spends roughly an hour on each one - spread out over three or four visits.
He has since recruited his children - 12-year-old Brooke, Lana, four, and Larsson, three, to share the workload.
"It's good for the children to learn a little bit of history but also respect their environment," the 37-year-old said.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 Hancock announces NHS life assurance scheme
"As young as they are, they can still get involved and they can still help. Obviously they don't do the chemical side of things, but they can do the brushing.
"They're quite good at it, to be fair."
Encouraged by his wife, Hayley, he then began to clean headstones in other local graveyards, which were looking a little older.
"You've got to be respectful of the fact that it's someone's family member, it's someone's memories," he said. "You've got to make sure you're using the right products and you're being careful and delicate with it.
Image: Ryan was encouraged to branch out by his wife, Hayley. Pic: Ryan van Emmenis
"Some of these headstones I'm cleaning are over 100 years old. And algae, moss etc can have a really negative impact on them so you've got to be really careful."
He has now linked up with the vicar of a local church to decide which stones to work on.
Since posting photographs online, his work has been shared widely on social media - prompting family members to get in touch and thank him.
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
He said: "I had some feedback from people saying they were really grateful for what I'd done because it was family members and they hadn't visited the grave for 20 years, they'd been unable to.
"Someone used the term 'you're bringing memories back to people'.
"When a grave is dull and it's got algae on it and you can't read it, there's nobody seems to give it much time if they don't know the person.
Image: Ryan uses his walks to clean gravestones - with astonishing results. Pic: Ryan van Emmenis
"Once you've cleaned up one of these graves, it's really noticeable, which means people are stopping and taking a moment to read and remember these people."
Despite having access to products no readily available to the public, Mr van Emmenis says that good old soap and water will do the trick.
"A little bit of patience, care and attention and a soft bristled brush with a bit of soapy water will do a fantastic job," he said.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: Idris Elba denies suggesting annual week of lockdown

Idris Elba has denied suggesting an annual week of quarantine , clarifying recent comments made in an interview about the coronavirus pandemic .
In a tweet posted on Sunday , Elba said he had not meant an enforced lockdown , but rather a way of marking what people have been through during the COVID-19 outbreak .
The actor himself was diagnosed with coronavirus back in March , but said he was lucky not to suffer serious symptoms .
In an interview with the Associated Press ( AP ) news agency last week , Elba said : `` I think that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quarantine every year just to remember this time .
Remember each other .
I really do .
`` I think it's… other species use it .
It 's called hibernation .
But it does remind you that the world does n't tick on your time . ''
Elba was widely mocked online after the interview went out .
In his tweet clarifying his comments , he said his words had been twisted .
`` I did n't suggest an actual annual lockdown , '' he posted .
`` I suggested a way of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bate thirst will get your words twisted real quick .
`` The actual POINT was that agriculture and the rural poor will suffer long after this time .
Focus do n't hocus . ''
Elba and his wife Sabrina Dhowre Elba were forced to self-isolate in New Mexico , where he had been filming , after being trapped there when the US and UK went into lockdown .
As new UN Goodwill Ambassadors , they are helping to raise $ 200m ( £160m ) to support rural farmers trying to cope with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initial $ 40m in funding from the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development ( IFAD ) .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Speaking about the UN fund for farmers in the AP interview , Elba said people in rural and poor areas are likely to suffer more in the pandemic .
`` If you imagine being in a village where no one even knows the name of your village or your population , and that you live in a slum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of you live in it , social distancing is almost laughable , '' Elba said .

Idris Elba has denied suggesting an annual week of quarantine, clarifying recent comments made in an interview about the coronavirus pandemic.
In a tweet posted on Sunday, Elba said he had not meant an enforced lockdown, but rather a way of marking what people have been through during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The actor himself was diagnosed with coronavirus back in March, but said he was lucky not to suffer serious symptoms.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:09 March: Idris Elba reveals COVID-19 diagnosis
In an interview with the Associated Press (AP) news agency last week, Elba said: "I think that the world should take a week of quarantine every year just to remember this time. Remember each other. I really do.
"I think it's… other species use it. It's called hibernation. But it does remind you that the world doesn't tick on your time."
Elba was widely mocked online after the interview went out.
In his tweet clarifying his comments, he said his words had been twisted.
"I didn't suggest an actual annual lockdown," he posted. "I suggested a way of remembrance annually. Lazy journalism and click bate thirst will get your words twisted real quick.
"The actual POINT was that agriculture and the rural poor will suffer long after this time. Focus don't hocus."
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Elba and his wife Sabrina Dhowre Elba were forced to self-isolate in New Mexico, where he had been filming, after being trapped there when the US and UK went into lockdown.
As new UN Goodwill Ambassadors, they are helping to raise $200m (£160m) to support rural farmers trying to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak, in addition to an initial $40m in funding from the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
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 Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Speaking about the UN fund for farmers in the AP interview, Elba said people in rural and poor areas are likely to suffer more in the pandemic.
"If you imagine being in a village where no one even knows the name of your village or your population, and that you live in a slum where there is one room and six of you live in it, social distancing is almost laughable," Elba said.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: 360 more COVID-19 deaths in UK hospitals - lowest daily rise in four weeks

Another 360 people with coronavirus have died in UK hospitals - the lowest daily increase in confirmed deaths for four weeks .
A total of 21,092 hospital patients have now died in the UK after testing positive for COVID-19 , the Department of Health said .
It came as Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the families of frontline NHS workers or social care staff who die from coronavirus will each receive a £60,000 payout .
The latest confirmed deaths include a 29-year-old who had no known underlying health conditions .
It is the smallest daily increase in COVID-19 deaths in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths were confirmed .
Monday 's figure is also the smallest percentage increase on the previous day to date at 1.7 % .
Earlier , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK is `` beginning to turn the tide '' in the fight against the virus , but he insisted it was not the time to relax the nationwide lockdown .
In England , 329 more coronavirus patients were confirmed to have died in hospitals , taking the country 's total to 18,749 .
A further 13 COVID-19 deaths in hospitals in Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 1,262 .
Wales reported another eight people with the virus had died in hospitals there , as the country 's total rose to 796 .
And in Northern Ireland , coronavirus deaths in hospitals increased by 10 to 309 .
The figures do not include deaths in the community , such as those in care homes , with experts voicing concerns they are going `` under the radar '' .
Health authorities in the four UK nations record their own daily figures , which may not tally with the government 's overall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at different times throughout the day .
The latest coronavirus deaths in hospitals in England included : • 55 in the North East and Yorkshire The director of NHS England revealed on Sunday that there is a `` very definite trend '' downwards in the number of people in hospital with coronavirus .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Professor Stephen Powis told reporters at the daily Downing Street briefing that the trend was `` most marked in London '' but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it was starting in some other areas .
The proportion of critical care beds in UK taken by COVID-19 patients is also declining , Professor Powis said .

Another 360 people with coronavirus have died in UK hospitals - the lowest daily increase in confirmed deaths for four weeks.
A total of 21,092 hospital patients have now died in the UK after testing positive for COVID-19, the Department of Health said.
It came as Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the families of frontline NHS workers or social care staff who die from coronavirus will each receive a £60,000 payout.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:00 'If you keep going, we will beat this'
The latest confirmed deaths include a 29-year-old who had no known underlying health conditions.
It is the smallest daily increase in COVID-19 deaths in UK hospitals since 30 March when 180 deaths were confirmed.
Monday's figure is also the smallest percentage increase on the previous day to date at 1.7%.
Earlier, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK is "beginning to turn the tide" in the fight against the virus, but he insisted it was not the time to relax the nationwide lockdown.
In England, 329 more coronavirus patients were confirmed to have died in hospitals, taking the country's total to 18,749.
A further 13 COVID-19 deaths in hospitals in Scotland were announced, with its total now at 1,262.
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Wales reported another eight people with the virus had died in hospitals there, as the country's total rose to 796.
And in Northern Ireland, coronavirus deaths in hospitals increased by 10 to 309.
The figures do not include deaths in the community, such as those in care homes, with experts voicing concerns they are going "under the radar".
Health authorities in the four UK nations record their own daily figures, which may not tally with the government's overall UK total because they collate their numbers at different times throughout the day.
The latest coronavirus deaths in hospitals in England included:
87 in London
55 in the Midlands
55 in the North East and Yorkshire
41 in the North West
38 in the South East
23 in the East
19 in the South West
The director of NHS England revealed on Sunday that there is a "very definite trend" downwards in the number of people in hospital with coronavirus.
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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Professor Stephen Powis told reporters at the daily Downing Street briefing that the trend was "most marked in London" but it could also be seen in the Midlands and it was starting in some other areas.
The proportion of critical care beds in UK taken by COVID-19 patients is also declining, Professor Powis said.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: Business leaders 'clamouring' to know when lockdown will be eased

Business leaders are `` clamouring '' to know when the lockdown will start to ease as fears grow about the longer term outlook for the economy , according to the Institute of Directors ( IoD ) .
The IoD said bosses needed to be able to make plans but had `` no idea what will be happening in a few weeks ' time '' .
It came as a new forecast from the EY ITEM Club suggested the UK economy would take three years to recover from its coronavirus slump .
Details of the deepening impact of the crisis on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson about when and how to ease the lockdown as he returns to work after being himself struck down by the illness .
Speaking in Downing Street , the prime minister said he understood the frustration of business but underlined the need to continue the lockdown for now .
`` I want to get this economy moving as fast as I can , but I refuse to throw away all the effort and the sacrifice of the British people and to risk a second major outbreak , '' Mr Johnson said .
Lord @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told Sky 's Ian King Live that the prime minister was sticking to the line for now but a resumption of economic activity in line with other European countries looked increasingly likely .
`` Virtually everyone on the continent is exploring some form of opening up and I ca n't imagine why we are going to be any different , '' he said .
Last week a top Bank of England official said the UK could be facing the worst downturn for centuries , while data showed record declines in economic activity during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 1,000 directors showed confidence in the outlook at record lows .
It said the figures should encourage the government to publish - even in outline - the stages that the UK would go through to reopen the economy .
Jon Geldart , the IoD 's director general , said : `` Over the last few days the clamour from our members for information on how , and when , coronavirus-related restrictions will begin to lift has increased substantially .
`` Directors from all parts of the UK need to make plans for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ca n't get very far if they have no idea what will be happening in a few weeks ' time . ''
Mr Geldart insisted that bosses `` do not in any way want to be reckless '' but simply want to know `` how they can get going again safely in a way that supports efforts to make sure the virus is kept under control '' .
Some businesses have already embarked on partial reopening plans while seeking to maintain social distancing for workers and customers .
DIY chain B & Q @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its stores while some construction firms and car makers have revealed plans to start resuming work in May - the house builder Redrow on Monday becoming the latest to do so .
The TUC issued a note of caution , saying that many workers were concerned about not being able to socially distance from colleagues when they go back to work .
It called for `` tough new measures '' to ensure that before lockdown is eased , all employers must assess the risks to their staff returning to the workplace .
Meanwhile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which creates its forecasts using a Treasury model - added to the gloomy outlook .
It predicted a 6.8 % fall in GDP for 2020 , before a partial bounce-back next year , based on an assumption of lockdown restrictions starting to be eased in May , and further in June .
That is smaller than the downturn predicted in some other scenarios but the forecast suggests that the economy will take until 2023 to recover to the same level seen at the end of 2019 .
The EY ITEM Club forecast assumes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Treasury and the Bank of England will provide `` serious support '' to activity once the coronavirus impact starts to wane .
Business groups are pressing the government to beef up its help for stricken firms , with the CBI last week warning of a `` race against time '' to save firms from collapse .

Business leaders are "clamouring" to know when the lockdown will start to ease as fears grow about the longer term outlook for the economy, according to the Institute of Directors (IoD).
The IoD said bosses needed to be able to make plans but had "no idea what will be happening in a few weeks' time".
It came as a new forecast from the EY ITEM Club suggested the UK economy would take three years to recover from its coronavirus slump.
Details of the deepening impact of the crisis on business add to the pressure on Boris Johnson about when and how to ease the lockdown as he returns to work after being himself struck down by the illness.
Speaking in Downing Street, the prime minister said he understood the frustration of business but underlined the need to continue the lockdown for now.
"I want to get this economy moving as fast as I can, but I refuse to throw away all the effort and the sacrifice of the British people and to risk a second major outbreak," Mr Johnson said.
Lord O'Neill, the former Treasury minister, told Sky's Ian King Live that the prime minister was sticking to the line for now but a resumption of economic activity in line with other European countries looked increasingly likely.
"Virtually everyone on the continent is exploring some form of opening up and I can't imagine why we are going to be any different," he said.
Last week a top Bank of England official said the UK could be facing the worst downturn for centuries, while data showed record declines in economic activity during April.
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The IoD said a survey of 1,000 directors showed confidence in the outlook at record lows.
It said the figures should encourage the government to publish - even in outline - the stages that the UK would go through to reopen the economy.
Jon Geldart, the IoD's director general, said: "Over the last few days the clamour from our members for information on how, and when, coronavirus-related restrictions will begin to lift has increased substantially.
"Directors from all parts of the UK need to make plans for riding out this tempest, but they can't get very far if they have no idea what will be happening in a few weeks' time."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:44 'Pretty shocking': COVID-19 economic impact
Mr Geldart insisted that bosses "do not in any way want to be reckless" but simply want to know "how they can get going again safely in a way that supports efforts to make sure the virus is kept under control".
Some businesses have already embarked on partial reopening plans while seeking to maintain social distancing for workers and customers.
DIY chain B&Q last week reopened more than half of its stores while some construction firms and car makers have revealed plans to start resuming work in May - the house builder Redrow on Monday becoming the latest to do so.
The TUC issued a note of caution, saying that many workers were concerned about not being able to socially distance from colleagues when they go back to work.
It called for "tough new measures" to ensure that before lockdown is eased, all employers must assess the risks to their staff returning to the workplace.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:22 How will oil slump hit the economy?
Meanwhile figures from the EY ITEM Club - which creates its forecasts using a Treasury model - added to the gloomy outlook.
It predicted a 6.8% fall in GDP for 2020, before a partial bounce-back next year, based on an assumption of lockdown restrictions starting to be eased in May, and further in June.
That is smaller than the downturn predicted in some other scenarios but the forecast suggests that the economy will take until 2023 to recover to the same level seen at the end of 2019.
The EY ITEM Club forecast assumes measures that have been announced by the Treasury and the Bank of England will provide "serious support" to activity once the coronavirus impact starts to wane.
Business groups are pressing the government to beef up its help for stricken firms, with the CBI last week warning of a "race against time" to save firms from collapse.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: Which are you? Britons are reacting to lockdown in one of three ways

Britons fall into one of three groups depending on their response to the coronavirus lockdown - the accepter , the sufferer and the resister .
Analysis by King 's College London found that the largest group , around 48 % of the UK , have accepted the new way of life during the coronavirus outbreak , while around 44 % are suffering and 9 % are resisting the changes .
`` The large bulk of the population are fully behind the measures , but even within this group there are clear dividing lines between those who are coping pretty well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said Bobby Duffy , director of the Policy Institute at King 's College London .
`` Nearly all of this suffering group have felt more anxious and depressed , and six in 10 are losing sleep . ''
The survey of 2,250 adults , carried out by Ipsos MORI in early April , found young people are most likely to be in the resisting group - made up of around 64 % males .
Around 58 % of the resisting group think `` too much fuss is being made about the risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of the nation as a whole .
Just 49 % of the resisting group say they are adhering to lockdown rules completely or nearly all of the time , and are much less likely to follow official guidance such as staying two metres away from others outside .
The resisters are more optimistic about Britain 's financial recovery than any of the groups , with 33 % of them expecting the economy to start growing again in three months or less compared to just 11 % of accepters and sufferers .
People @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proportion of the accepting .
The accepters are more likely to have voted Conservative and supported Brexit , and only 28 % of them said they are potentially facing financial difficulties as a result of the lockdown - the lowest of all the groups .
Nearly two-thirds of those suffering are women .
King 's found that 93 % of the suffering said they are following lockdown rules completely or most of the time , but the same percentage of them report feeling more anxious and depressed , with 64 % of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the government on 23 March in a bid to slow the spread of the highly contagious virus , with Britons told they could only leave their homes for basic necessities , exercising once a day , for a medical need or for work if they could not work from home .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The government has been accused of responding too slowly to the spread of the virus , despite ministers arguing that they followed scientific advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the government 's handling of the outbreak , while the suffering are most likely to think Britain acted too slowly .

Britons fall into one of three groups depending on their response to the coronavirus lockdown - the accepter, the sufferer and the resister.
Analysis by King's College London found that the largest group, around 48% of the UK, have accepted the new way of life during the coronavirus outbreak, while around 44% are suffering and 9% are resisting the changes.
"The large bulk of the population are fully behind the measures, but even within this group there are clear dividing lines between those who are coping pretty well and those who are really suffering," said Bobby Duffy, director of the Policy Institute at King's College London.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:10 Is lockdown frustration setting in?
"Nearly all of this suffering group have felt more anxious and depressed, and six in 10 are losing sleep."
The survey of 2,250 adults, carried out by Ipsos MORI in early April, found young people are most likely to be in the resisting group - made up of around 64% males.
Around 58% of the resisting group think "too much fuss is being made about the risk of coronavirus" compared with only 14% of the nation as a whole.
Just 49% of the resisting group say they are adhering to lockdown rules completely or nearly all of the time, and are much less likely to follow official guidance such as staying two metres away from others outside.
The resisters are more optimistic about Britain's financial recovery than any of the groups, with 33% of them expecting the economy to start growing again in three months or less compared to just 11% of accepters and sufferers.
People aged 55 to 75 are the biggest proportion of the accepting.
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The accepters are more likely to have voted Conservative and supported Brexit, and only 28% of them said they are potentially facing financial difficulties as a result of the lockdown - the lowest of all the groups.
Nearly two-thirds of those suffering are women.
King's found that 93% of the suffering said they are following lockdown rules completely or most of the time, but the same percentage of them report feeling more anxious and depressed, with 64% of them losing sleep.
Lockdown measures were announced by the government on 23 March in a bid to slow the spread of the highly contagious virus, with Britons told they could only leave their homes for basic necessities, exercising once a day, for a medical need or for work if they could not work from home.
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The government has been accused of responding too slowly to the spread of the virus, despite ministers arguing that they followed scientific advice.
The accepters have the most confidence in the government's handling of the outbreak, while the suffering are most likely to think Britain acted too slowly.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: British man, 81, could be 'executed by COVID-19' in jail, campaigners say

Lawyers for an 81-year-old British businessman are pleading for his temporary release from prison after a suspected outbreak of COVID-19 in his dormitory .
Krishna Maharaj , who has spent decades in an American prison for a crime he says he did not commit , has been locked down in his cell after a prisoner in the 40-man dormitory was placed in quarantine .
Late last year , a judge in Florida ruled that Maharaj had proved his innocence by `` clear and convincing evidence '' and that `` no reasonable juror could convict him '' - but the original @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he remains in prison near Miami .
Maharaj was convicted and sentenced to death for the murder of two business associates in 1986 , although his sentence was later commuted to life in prison .
His lawyer Clive Stafford Smith , founder of the campaign group Reprieve , said : `` Rather than exonerate him , Florida now seeks to execute him by COVID-19 .
`` Is it too much to ask for compassion for a desperately ill 81-year-old victim of such injustice ? ''
In an interview with Sky News in prison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hell '' of his life inside in the face of repeated delays in trying to secure his release .
But , as the concerns of the virus have grown in his prison , he said : `` Now we have descended into the lowest regions of hell . ''
His wife Marita , who visits regularly from her home near the prison , said : `` It is a death camp .
I have had nightmares for many years where Kris is executed by the state of Florida , first in the electric @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Now I think they 're going to execute him in a new way , by killing him with coronavirus .
I am desperate for him . ''
Maharaj 's lawyers have made a formal application to Florida governor Ron DeSantis for him to be furloughed with security arrangements in place .
They say they have received no reply .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Despite having the authority , Mr DeSantis has been less willing than many governors in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ release of prison inmates , with the virus spreading in the country 's third largest jail system .
The state 's department of corrections has said accelerated early release creates `` significant risk '' .
But Mr Stafford Smith said time was running out : `` If Kris contracts coronavirus , there 's a significant chance it will prove fatal . ''

Lawyers for an 81-year-old British businessman are pleading for his temporary release from prison after a suspected outbreak of COVID-19 in his dormitory.
Krishna Maharaj, who has spent decades in an American prison for a crime he says he did not commit, has been locked down in his cell after a prisoner in the 40-man dormitory was placed in quarantine.
Late last year, a judge in Florida ruled that Maharaj had proved his innocence by "clear and convincing evidence" and that "no reasonable juror could convict him" - but the original verdict has yet to be overturned and he remains in prison near Miami.
Image: Kris' wife, Marita, fears for his safety
Maharaj was convicted and sentenced to death for the murder of two business associates in 1986, although his sentence was later commuted to life in prison.
His lawyer Clive Stafford Smith, founder of the campaign group Reprieve, said: "Rather than exonerate him, Florida now seeks to execute him by COVID-19.
"Is it too much to ask for compassion for a desperately ill 81-year-old victim of such injustice?"
In an interview with Sky News in prison in February, Maharaj described the "hell" of his life inside in the face of repeated delays in trying to secure his release.
But, as the concerns of the virus have grown in his prison, he said: "Now we have descended into the lowest regions of hell."
Image: Reprieve founder Clive Stafford Smith with Marita Maharaj
His wife Marita, who visits regularly from her home near the prison, said: "It is a death camp. I have had nightmares for many years where Kris is executed by the state of Florida, first in the electric chair, then by lethal injection.
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"Now I think they're going to execute him in a new way, by killing him with coronavirus. I am desperate for him."
Maharaj's lawyers have made a formal application to Florida governor Ron DeSantis for him to be furloughed with security arrangements in place. They say they have received no reply.
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Despite having the authority, Mr DeSantis has been less willing than many governors in the US to order the early or temporary release of prison inmates, with the virus spreading in the country's third largest jail system.
The state's department of corrections has said accelerated early release creates "significant risk".
But Mr Stafford Smith said time was running out: "If Kris contracts coronavirus, there's a significant chance it will prove fatal."


news--2020-04-26--Coronavirus: Over 100,000 could die if only vulnerable groups told to isolate, says professor

More than 100,000 people could die this year if the coronavirus lockdown is lifted so only elderly and vulnerable people are shielded , an expert advising the government has said .
Professor Neil Ferguson said he was `` very sceptical '' that a scenario where the younger population resumed a normal life would be a `` viable strategy '' .
He said it would require `` a very high level '' of effective protection for the vulnerable and elderly population , who are also the `` least able to really be truly isolated '' .
Speaking to news outlet UnHerd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vulnerable people are also the people who most need care and have most interaction with the health system and are least able to really be truly isolated .
`` And if you achieve just 80 % shielding , 80 % reduction in infection risk in those groups , we 'd still project you get well over 100,000 deaths later this year through that sort of strategy . ''
Professor Ferguson , from Imperial College London , was the lead author of a report that said the pandemic could kill 250,000 people if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said his team was now working on a model for easing the lockdown and would release details in the coming days .
He warned that life `` can not go completely back to normal '' and that social distancing would need to remain until a vaccine is developed - something Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has said will not happen until at least next year .
`` There will be a trade-off between the extent to which you relax measures and tolerate a level of transmission , and , therefore , mortality and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numbers as low as you can , which will probably require social distancing longer term , '' said Professor Ferguson .
He pointed towards the South Korean model of mass testing and contact tracing as `` remarkably effective '' for monitoring the virus infection rate .
South Korea has reported just 242 deaths to the disease , which is one of lowest rates in the world .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' I think if you talk to people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public health department , they think they have a sustainable strategy , '' he said .
`` They have society not operating as normal - there will have to be social distancing until we have a vaccine ... but they have been remarkably effective at basically tracking chains of transmission down and isolating people who are infected .
`` And the real benefit of those policies is that if you drive transmission down to the very low levels they now have in Korea , then it 's not that disruptive or resource-intensive .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ tight-lipped about its ideas for exiting the lockdown , with Mr Raab telling Sky News it was `` not responsible '' to openly discuss it at this time .
`` We need to make sure that the next steps are sure-footed , which is why we are proceeding very cautiously , '' he said .

More than 100,000 people could die this year if the coronavirus lockdown is lifted so only elderly and vulnerable people are shielded, an expert advising the government has said.
Professor Neil Ferguson said he was "very sceptical" that a scenario where the younger population resumed a normal life would be a "viable strategy".
He said it would require "a very high level" of effective protection for the vulnerable and elderly population, who are also the "least able to really be truly isolated".
Speaking to news outlet UnHerd, he said: "The most vulnerable people are also the people who most need care and have most interaction with the health system and are least able to really be truly isolated.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:11 Raab foresees 'new normal' after lockdown
"And if you achieve just 80% shielding, 80% reduction in infection risk in those groups, we'd still project you get well over 100,000 deaths later this year through that sort of strategy."
Professor Ferguson, from Imperial College London, was the lead author of a report that said the pandemic could kill 250,000 people if the government did not enforce social distancing.
He said his team was now working on a model for easing the lockdown and would release details in the coming days.
He warned that life "cannot go completely back to normal" and that social distancing would need to remain until a vaccine is developed - something Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has said will not happen until at least next year.
"There will be a trade-off between the extent to which you relax measures and tolerate a level of transmission, and, therefore, mortality and health system demand, versus keeping case numbers as low as you can, which will probably require social distancing longer term," said Professor Ferguson.
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He pointed towards the South Korean model of mass testing and contact tracing as "remarkably effective" for monitoring the virus infection rate.
South Korea has reported just 242 deaths to the disease, which is one of lowest rates in the world.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"I think if you talk to people in Korea, and people in the public health department, they think they have a sustainable strategy," he said.
"They have society not operating as normal - there will have to be social distancing until we have a vaccine... but they have been remarkably effective at basically tracking chains of transmission down and isolating people who are infected.
"And the real benefit of those policies is that if you drive transmission down to the very low levels they now have in Korea, then it's not that disruptive or resource-intensive."
The government has so far remained tight-lipped about its ideas for exiting the lockdown, with Mr Raab telling Sky News it was "not responsible" to openly discuss it at this time.
"We need to make sure that the next steps are sure-footed, which is why we are proceeding very cautiously," he said.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: Spray that 'protects surfaces from COVID-19 for 90 days' to go on sale in Hong Kong

An antiviral coating which could protect surfaces from coronavirus for 90 days has been developed by scientists .
The coating , called MAP-1 , has taken 10 years to develop and can be sprayed on surfaces frequently used by the public , such as handrails and lift buttons to protect against coronaviruses , researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology ( HKUST ) say .
`` These places are frequently touched , and , at the same time , serve as a very effective medium for transmission of diseases , '' said HKUST adjunct professor Joseph Kwan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The spray-on coating is created from millions of nano-capsules containing disinfectants which remain effective in killing bacteria , viruses and spores even after it has dried , Prof Kwan said .
He said MAP-1 's efficacy is increased by heat-sensitive polymers that encapsulate and release disinfectants on human contact - unlike common disinfectants such as bleach or alcohol .
It is also non-toxic and safe for skin and the environment , researchers said .
MAP-1 was approved for official and mass consumer use in February after clinical tests at a Hong Kong hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It will go on sale in Hong Kong shops next month and , with help from a charity , has been sprayed around the homes of more than a thousand low-income families in the city .
`` I feel like it has strengthened our protection against the virus , '' said Law Ha-yu , a mother-of-two living in a 110sq ft `` coffin '' home that was recently sprayed .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Shopping malls , schools and sports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coating as well , according to researchers .
To spray an entire school it costs £2,050-£5,130 , depending on its size .
Germagic , a unit of the university 's industrial partner , Chiaphua Industries Ltd , is planning on introducing 50ml and 200ml versions for domestic use , with prices ranging from £70-£25 .

An antiviral coating which could protect surfaces from coronavirus for 90 days has been developed by scientists.
The coating, called MAP-1, has taken 10 years to develop and can be sprayed on surfaces frequently used by the public, such as handrails and lift buttons to protect against coronaviruses, researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) say.
"These places are frequently touched, and, at the same time, serve as a very effective medium for transmission of diseases," said HKUST adjunct professor Joseph Kwan, one of the chief researchers.
The spray-on coating is created from millions of nano-capsules containing disinfectants which remain effective in killing bacteria, viruses and spores even after it has dried, Prof Kwan said.
He said MAP-1's efficacy is increased by heat-sensitive polymers that encapsulate and release disinfectants on human contact - unlike common disinfectants such as bleach or alcohol.
It is also non-toxic and safe for skin and the environment, researchers said.
MAP-1 was approved for official and mass consumer use in February after clinical tests at a Hong Kong hospital and care home earlier this year.
It will go on sale in Hong Kong shops next month and, with help from a charity, has been sprayed around the homes of more than a thousand low-income families in the city.
"I feel like it has strengthened our protection against the virus," said Law Ha-yu, a mother-of-two living in a 110sq ft "coffin" home that was recently sprayed.
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Shopping malls, schools and sports facilities across Hong Kong have been using the coating as well, according to researchers.
To spray an entire school it costs £2,050-£5,130, depending on its size.
Germagic, a unit of the university's industrial partner, Chiaphua Industries Ltd, is planning on introducing 50ml and 200ml versions for domestic use, with prices ranging from £70-£25.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: Mum, 33, with incurable breast cancer 'begs' to be allowed to fly to US for treatment

A mother from Kent with terminal cancer is trying to get permission to fly to the US for life-saving treatment , amid the coronavirus lockdown .
Sarah Wright , 33 , was told in August that her breast cancer had spread to other areas of her body and had become incurable - just weeks after giving birth to her daughter Everleigh .
Mrs Wright has been accepted on to a clinical trial for a drug called Ieronlimab in San Francisco , which could save her life - but only if she can get around the coronavirus travel restrictions .
Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and UK has been limited due to COVID-19 - which is preventing the family from travelling for the trial .
Her husband , Adam , said : `` It feels like an utterly helpless situation , a situation where everything is out of your control .
`` I would never wish for anyone to experience what we have over the last year . ''
The couple discovered she was pregnant , as well as received her triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis in the same week in November 2018 .
Her pregnancy was interspersed with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 July .
She was then told her cancer had spread to a lymph node behind her sternum , her liver and lungs just two weeks later .
Since then , Mrs Wright has tried a number of treatments , including a clinical trial on atezolizumab at Maidstone Hospital as well as five sessions of carboplatin chemotherapy treatment .
But in April this year , she was told by the NHS that she could no longer be helped .
She then contacted the clinic in San Francisco and started a social media campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her to travel to take part in the trial .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Wright added : `` The NHS had done a fantastic job at looking after us and doing everything in their power to help , they are running out of options and we are running out of time .
`` When we had the final piece of bad news from our oncologist a couple of weeks ago it was time for me to act .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to try and regain some control or at least the feeling that we are doing something . ''
The family is also looking into being able to receive the drug , which is currently being tested as a COVID-19 cure and not available on the NHS , in the UK , through their oncologist .
Mr Wright said he is begging for help , adding : `` They are n't just helping me and Sarah they are helping to give our daughter Everleigh her mum back .
If that is n't enough of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't know what would be . ''
The family have also contacted their local MP , Damian Green , who they say is `` on the case '' with parliament and the US ambassador .

A mother from Kent with terminal cancer is trying to get permission to fly to the US for life-saving treatment, amid the coronavirus lockdown.
Sarah Wright, 33, was told in August that her breast cancer had spread to other areas of her body and had become incurable - just weeks after giving birth to her daughter Everleigh.
Mrs Wright has been accepted on to a clinical trial for a drug called Ieronlimab in San Francisco, which could save her life - but only if she can get around the coronavirus travel restrictions.
Image: Sarah Wright has been told her cancer is terminal. Pic: #SaveSarahGray/Adam Wright
Since 16 March, travel between the US and UK has been limited due to COVID-19 - which is preventing the family from travelling for the trial.
Her husband, Adam, said: "It feels like an utterly helpless situation, a situation where everything is out of your control.
"I would never wish for anyone to experience what we have over the last year."
The couple discovered she was pregnant, as well as received her triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis in the same week in November 2018.
Her pregnancy was interspersed with chemotherapy, and she gave birth on 2 July.
She was then told her cancer had spread to a lymph node behind her sternum, her liver and lungs just two weeks later.
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Image: The couple have a daughter together. Pic: #SaveSarahGray/Adam Wright
Since then, Mrs Wright has tried a number of treatments, including a clinical trial on atezolizumab at Maidstone Hospital as well as five sessions of carboplatin chemotherapy treatment.
But in April this year, she was told by the NHS that she could no longer be helped.
She then contacted the clinic in San Francisco and started a social media campaign to encourage those in charge to allow her to travel to take part in the trial.
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Mr Wright added: "The NHS had done a fantastic job at looking after us and doing everything in their power to help, they are running out of options and we are running out of time.
"When we had the final piece of bad news from our oncologist a couple of weeks ago it was time for me to act.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:42 Cancer patients reveal fears amid coronavirus
"I started the Twitter and Facebook campaign to try and regain some control or at least the feeling that we are doing something."
The family is also looking into being able to receive the drug, which is currently being tested as a COVID-19 cure and not available on the NHS, in the UK, through their oncologist.
Image: Sarah's husband started an online campaign to fly her out to the US. Pic: #SaveSarahGray/Adam Wright
Mr Wright said he is begging for help, adding: "They aren't just helping me and Sarah they are helping to give our daughter Everleigh her mum back. If that isn't enough of a reason for someone then I don't know what would be."
The family have also contacted their local MP, Damian Green, who they say is "on the case" with parliament and the US ambassador.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: UK to fall silent in tribute to key workers who have died with COVID-19

The nation will fall silent on Tuesday to pay tribute to the key workers who have lost their lives during the coronavirus pandemic .
The deaths of more than 90 frontline NHS workers have been confirmed by Sky News since 25 March , and those in other key sectors such as private social care and transport have also died .
Boris Johnson , who was struck down with coronavirus himself and spent time in intensive care , will join others across Britain observing the minute 's silence at 11am .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The prime minister 's official spokesperson confirmed he would be supporting the tribute , adding : `` We will be asking everybody who works in the government to take part and we would hope that others will take part nationwide as well . ''
Dame Donna Kinnair , chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing , said the country owes a `` tremendous debt '' to its NHS staff .
`` This moment will bring together a sombre but grateful nation .
Whether in nursing or driving buses , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many had the luxury of staying at home , '' she said .
`` Nobody should go out to work and risk their life .
This must not be the last time that sacrifice is recognised . ''
Unison general secretary Dave Prentis said the tribute was the `` least we could do '' .
England 's top nurse and doctor also supported the silence , saying they hoped Britain would show its appreciation .
Chief nursing officer for England Ruth May said : `` Every death is a tragedy but we feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers particularly keenly .
`` I want people across the NHS and the whole country to come together and remember health and care workers who have lost their lives to this cruel virus . ''
NHS England chief Professor Stephen Powis said he hoped it would show key workers `` how much their contribution is remembered and appreciated '' .
The government has faced pressure to test more NHS workers for COVID-19 , while some staff have complained they do not have adequate PPE .
On Monday , it said the families of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line in England would receive a lump sum of £60,000 if their loved one dies with coronavirus .
Announcing the scheme , the government said it `` recognises the increased risk faced by staff during the crisis '' .

The nation will fall silent on Tuesday to pay tribute to the key workers who have lost their lives during the coronavirus pandemic.
The deaths of more than 90 frontline NHS workers have been confirmed by Sky News since 25 March, and those in other key sectors such as private social care and transport have also died.
Boris Johnson, who was struck down with coronavirus himself and spent time in intensive care, will join others across Britain observing the minute's silence at 11am.
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's official spokesperson confirmed he would be supporting the tribute, adding: "We will be asking everybody who works in the government to take part and we would hope that others will take part nationwide as well."
Dame Donna Kinnair, chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, said the country owes a "tremendous debt" to its NHS staff.
"This moment will bring together a sombre but grateful nation. Whether in nursing or driving buses, our heroes kept going to work when many had the luxury of staying at home," she said.
"Nobody should go out to work and risk their life. This must not be the last time that sacrifice is recognised."
Unison general secretary Dave Prentis said the tribute was the "least we could do".
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England's top nurse and doctor also supported the silence, saying they hoped Britain would show its appreciation.
Chief nursing officer for England Ruth May said: "Every death is a tragedy but we feel the loss of fellow health and care workers particularly keenly.
"I want people across the NHS and the whole country to come together and remember health and care workers who have lost their lives to this cruel virus."
NHS England chief Professor Stephen Powis said he hoped it would show key workers "how much their contribution is remembered and appreciated".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 Hancock announces NHS life assurance scheme
The government has faced pressure to test more NHS workers for COVID-19, while some staff have complained they do not have adequate PPE.
On Monday, it said the families of health and care workers on the front line in England would receive a lump sum of £60,000 if their loved one dies with coronavirus.
Announcing the scheme, the government said it "recognises the increased risk faced by staff during the crisis".


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: Kate urges struggling addicts to seek help during COVID-19 lockdown

The Duchess of Cambridge has urged people struggling with addiction to seek help , as new research revealed a quarter of UK adults are drinking more in lockdown .
Kate made a virtual visit to Clouds House , a rehab centre in Wiltshire run by Action on Addiction , in her role as patron of the charity .
In a video call from her family home , the duchess talked to staff about how they have adapted their services , taking them online and reconfiguring the entire centre to allow 10 residential clients to be able to isolate for two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more people will need treatment as the coronavirus lockdown eases .
Kate said : `` The worrying thing is , it is all those people who are n't necessarily reaching out who are struggling , who perhaps do n't feel they can reach out .
`` Or the fact that maybe they have n't realised that addictive behaviours have sort of established , particularly if it 's the first time - and it 's those people who are n't necessarily being vocal about it .
`` It 's making sure that they know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are there to help and support them in this very difficult time . ''
More than a third of people , 39 % , with a history of addiction have reported a recurrence of their addictive behaviour or have recently relapsed while in recovery .
The statistics from a YouGov poll for the charity Action on Addiction also showed an increase in addictive behaviour in young adults and children as young as 12 , during the COVID-19 crisis .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those questioned have a close relative between the ages of 12 and 25 for whom this is the case , which the charity said would amount to more than two million children and young people on a national scale .
Kate was given a briefing on the new research and spoke to clinical lead Dr Simone Yule about whether she had noticed a difference in the number of people contacting them for emergency help .
Dr Yule said : `` We are seeing more alcohol issues and in the community .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone up exponentially , so the rise in people that are now starting to seek treatment with lockdown gradually lifting , I think that is going to have a big impact . ''
She also spoke with former Clouds House residents Claire and Chris , who are currently in the centre 's aftercare programme .
Chris told the duchess how emerging from rehab into lockdown had been a `` blessing in disguise '' as it made him `` feel safe again '' , and how he had been using Zoom to connect with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gentle stepping stone back into reality .
It kind of took away all of my temptations , the accessibility , the associations I had with friends .
`` There 's always the fear of missing out and that kind of got taken away in a sense , so it was really nice for me , it felt gentle . ''

The Duchess of Cambridge has urged people struggling with addiction to seek help, as new research revealed a quarter of UK adults are drinking more in lockdown.
Kate made a virtual visit to Clouds House, a rehab centre in Wiltshire run by Action on Addiction, in her role as patron of the charity.
In a video call from her family home, the duchess talked to staff about how they have adapted their services, taking them online and reconfiguring the entire centre to allow 10 residential clients to be able to isolate for two weeks.
Image: The duchess was given a virtual tour of the centre
She also discussed fears that more people will need treatment as the coronavirus lockdown eases.
Kate said: "The worrying thing is, it is all those people who aren't necessarily reaching out who are struggling, who perhaps don't feel they can reach out.
"Or the fact that maybe they haven't realised that addictive behaviours have sort of established, particularly if it's the first time - and it's those people who aren't necessarily being vocal about it.
"It's making sure that they know they can reach out and that you are there to help and support them in this very difficult time."
More than a third of people, 39%, with a history of addiction have reported a recurrence of their addictive behaviour or have recently relapsed while in recovery.
The statistics from a YouGov poll for the charity Action on Addiction also showed an increase in addictive behaviour in young adults and children as young as 12, during the COVID-19 crisis.
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Some 4% of those questioned have a close relative between the ages of 12 and 25 for whom this is the case, which the charity said would amount to more than two million children and young people on a national scale.
Kate was given a briefing on the new research and spoke to clinical lead Dr Simone Yule about whether she had noticed a difference in the number of people contacting them for emergency help.
Dr Yule said: "We are seeing more alcohol issues and in the community.
"I think definitely we know alcohol sales have gone up exponentially, so the rise in people that are now starting to seek treatment with lockdown gradually lifting, I think that is going to have a big impact."
She also spoke with former Clouds House residents Claire and Chris, who are currently in the centre's aftercare programme.
Chris told the duchess how emerging from rehab into lockdown had been a "blessing in disguise" as it made him "feel safe again", and how he had been using Zoom to connect with the centre.
"It was a gentle stepping stone back into reality. It kind of took away all of my temptations, the accessibility, the associations I had with friends.
"There's always the fear of missing out and that kind of got taken away in a sense, so it was really nice for me, it felt gentle."