news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Wife's heartbreak as 'soul mate' becomes UK's youngest victim

The wife of a man believed to be the youngest victim of coronavirus in the UK has spoken of her heartbreak .
Mary Matthews said her 59-year-old husband Nick died on Saturday morning after being diagnosed with COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
Mr Matthews , from Nailsea in Bristol , had underlying health conditions .
`` Today at 3am I lost my life partner and soul mate but most of all my best friend , '' Mrs Matthews wrote on Facebook .
`` Charlotte , Ben and I are beyond proud to have had such a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said , referencing the pair 's adult children .
`` As a family we are still currently in isolation until the coronavirus test results come back .
Someone will post again when we have more information .
`` In the meantime , I know some of you would like to visit , but please for you and your families safety , stay away until we get the all clear . ''
In a statement , University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust said : `` Sadly , we can confirm that a man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bristol Royal Infirmary , and had tested positive for COVID-19 , has died . ''
There have now been 35 coronavirus-related deaths in the UK .
All the victims , aged between 59 and 94 , had underlying health conditions , according to NHS England .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
There are now 1,372 confirmed infections in the UK , while the number of people tested has risen to 40,279 with 38,907 testing negative .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky News that over-70s would be asked to self-isolate `` in the coming weeks '' .
Mr Hancock also told the Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme that the UK was likely to need `` many more times '' the current number of ventilators it has , amid concerns hospitals will come under intense pressure .
He said the growing virus outbreak meant `` the elderly and vulnerable '' would be asked to `` shield themselves by self-isolating '' .
When pushed on whether they could be asked to isolate for up to four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in the action plan , yes .
`` And we will be setting it out in more detail when that 's the right time to do so , because we appreciate it is a very big ask of the elderly and vulnerable , and it 's for their own self-protection . ''
• Globally more than 169,000 are infected and over 6,500 have died • US President Donald Trump tests negative for the coronavirus • Guatemala logs its first fatality from COVID-19 • Italy records 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise • France is preparing an order that would put the country under partial lockdown to combat the epidemic • Britain will isolate older people `` within weeks '' and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus • Jordan confirms 12 new cases of the coronavirus • More major retailers shut stores in the US including Nike , Under Armour , and Lululemon Athletica Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm , with experts answering your questions # AskSkyNews at 12.30pm

The wife of a man believed to be the youngest victim of coronavirus in the UK has spoken of her heartbreak.
Mary Matthews said her 59-year-old husband Nick died on Saturday morning after being diagnosed with COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
Mr Matthews, from Nailsea in Bristol, had underlying health conditions.
"Today at 3am I lost my life partner and soul mate but most of all my best friend," Mrs Matthews wrote on Facebook.
"Charlotte, Ben and I are beyond proud to have had such a big character in our lives," she said, referencing the pair's adult children.
"As a family we are still currently in isolation until the coronavirus test results come back. Someone will post again when we have more information.
"In the meantime, I know some of you would like to visit, but please for you and your families safety, stay away until we get the all clear."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 The people showing community spirit in the midst of an outbreak
In a statement, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust said: "Sadly, we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at the Bristol Royal Infirmary, and had tested positive for COVID-19, has died."
There have now been 35 coronavirus-related deaths in the UK. All the victims, aged between 59 and 94, had underlying health conditions, according to NHS England.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
There are now 1,372 confirmed infections in the UK, while the number of people tested has risen to 40,279 with 38,907 testing negative.
It comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News that over-70s would be asked to self-isolate "in the coming weeks".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:33 Sky News questions Hancock on coronavirus
Mr Hancock also told the Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme that the UK was likely to need "many more times" the current number of ventilators it has, amid concerns hospitals will come under intense pressure.
He said the growing virus outbreak meant "the elderly and vulnerable" would be asked to "shield themselves by self-isolating".
When pushed on whether they could be asked to isolate for up to four months, he said: "That is in the action plan, yes.
"And we will be setting it out in more detail when that's the right time to do so, because we appreciate it is a very big ask of the elderly and vulnerable, and it's for their own self-protection."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:16 How the UK public is reacting to the coronavirus outbreak
In other developments:
Globally more than 169,000 are infected and over 6,500 have died
US President Donald Trump tests negative for the coronavirus
Guatemala logs its first fatality from COVID-19
Italy records 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak on Sunday, its biggest one day rise
France is preparing an order that would put the country under partial lockdown to combat the epidemic
Britain will isolate older people "within weeks" and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus
"within weeks" and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus Jordan confirms 12 new cases of the coronavirus
More major retailers shut stores in the US including Nike, Under Armour, and Lululemon Athletica
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews at 12.30pm


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Up to four months self-isolation for over-70s

The health secretary has told Sky News that over-70s will be asked to self-isolate `` in the coming weeks '' to try to protect them from coronavirus - and it could potentially last for months .
Matt Hancock also told the Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme that the UK was likely to need `` many more times '' the current 5,000 ventilators , amid concerns hospitals will come under intense pressure .
He said the growing virus outbreak meant `` the elderly and vulnerable '' would be asked to `` shield themselves by self-isolating '' .
When pushed on whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to four months , he said : `` That is in the action plan , yes .
`` And we will be setting it out in more detail when that 's the right time to do so , because we appreciate it is a very big ask of the elderly and vulnerable , and it 's for their own self-protection . ''
The number of those who have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK now stands at 35 - a rise of 14 since Saturday .
There have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 232 in a day .
Scotland appears to be taking a different approach to England on the isolation of elderly people Jeane Freeman , health secretary in the devolved government , said they would be asked to `` reduce social contact '' but confirmed : `` It 's not isolation . ''
`` We do n't want people who are elderly to be stuck in their homes alone not contacting anyone , with their families not able to be in touch with them and to help them , '' she said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce your contact . ''
Scotland 's national clinical director Jason Leitch boiled down the guidance to `` no bingo , no pubs ... but family visits and neighbours etc '' .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said they were measures being taken by the Scottish government but `` we are seeking to take them on a consistent UK four-nations basis '' .
In Wales , the devolved health minister Vaughan Gething said it was `` entirely possible '' all elderly people could be asked to self-isolate but that `` probably '' would n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
Older people with underlying health conditions are particularly at risk if they catch the coronavirus .
Mr Hancock said the government did not want to act too soon .
`` It 's not an easy thing for people to do , it 's not an easy thing for people to sustain .
But the critical thing is we need to be ready , '' he explained .
Mr Hancock called the outbreak `` one of the biggest challenges we 've faced for a generation '' .
`` The measures we 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant and they will disrupt the ordinary lives of almost everybody in the country , '' he added .
The government has up to now told members of the public they should stay at home for seven days if they have either a high temperature above 37.8C ( 100F ) or a new continuous cough .
It comes as Boris Johnson is to ask firms to join a `` national effort '' and ramp up the production of ventilators .
Mr Hancock said the UK is likely to need `` many times more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country .
`` We 're saying ( to manufacturers ) if you produce a ventilator , we 'll buy it .
No number is too high , '' he said .
The health secretary said the government is also asking firms to switch production lines to make more ventilators and other critical care equipment .
The prime minister is holding a conference call with manufacturers on Sunday to ask them to step up .
The ventilators are needed to help people with severe symptoms to breathe properly when a sticky mucus fills their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up thousands of beds in private hospitals to boost capacity if COVID-19 spreads rapidly .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A government bill on emergency powers to deal with the outbreak is to be set out on Tuesday and published on Thursday , said Mr Hancock .
He said it would include a broad range of measures and that the government was `` absolutely ready '' to ban gatherings of more than 500 people .
`` We will take these decisions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absolutely ready to take actions like that , '' said Mr Hancock .
He confirmed ministers were seeking to give police powers to arrest and forcibly quarantine people who are sick with the virus but are not self-isolating .
A government COBRA meeting will discuss the latest plans on Monday amid criticism from scientists that its plan is `` risking lives '' by not immediately bringing in social distancing measures .
• Virgin Atlantic chairman says airline industry will need £7.5bn in government support to avert catastrophe • Ryanair is severely reducing flights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Islands and Canary Islands • Jet2 planes heading to Spain turned back mid-air as it cancels flights to the country • Private hospital beds may be taken over for coronavirus patients • Donald Trump confirms travel ban will cover the UK and Ireland as he tests negative Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6:30pm on Sunday , with experts answering your questions .
# AskSkyNews

The health secretary has told Sky News that over-70s will be asked to self-isolate "in the coming weeks" to try to protect them from coronavirus - and it could potentially last for months.
Matt Hancock also told the Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme that the UK was likely to need "many more times" the current 5,000 ventilators, amid concerns hospitals will come under intense pressure.
He said the growing virus outbreak meant "the elderly and vulnerable" would be asked to "shield themselves by self-isolating".
When pushed on whether they could be asked to isolate for up to four months, he said: "That is in the action plan, yes.
"And we will be setting it out in more detail when that's the right time to do so, because we appreciate it is a very big ask of the elderly and vulnerable, and it's for their own self-protection."
The number of those who have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK now stands at 35 - a rise of 14 since Saturday.
Image: 21 people have died in the UK so far
There have been 1,372 confirmed infections, a rise of 232 in a day.
Scotland appears to be taking a different approach to England on the isolation of elderly people
Jeane Freeman, health secretary in the devolved government, said they would be asked to "reduce social contact" but confirmed: "It's not isolation."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:04 This is what happens during lockdown
"We don't want people who are elderly to be stuck in their homes alone not contacting anyone, with their families not able to be in touch with them and to help them," she said.
"What were saying to them is, reduce your contact."
Scotland's national clinical director Jason Leitch boiled down the guidance to "no bingo, no pubs... but family visits and neighbours etc".
Image: Nicola Sturgeon said she hoped Scotland's measures would be taken across the UK
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said they were measures being taken by the Scottish government but "we are seeking to take them on a consistent UK four-nations basis".
In Wales, the devolved health minister Vaughan Gething said it was "entirely possible" all elderly people could be asked to self-isolate but that "probably" wouldn't happen for "three months or more".
Older people with underlying health conditions are particularly at risk if they catch the coronavirus.
Mr Hancock said the government did not want to act too soon.
"It's not an easy thing for people to do, it's not an easy thing for people to sustain. But the critical thing is we need to be ready," he explained.
Mr Hancock called the outbreak "one of the biggest challenges we've faced for a generation".
"The measures we're looking at taking are very, very significant and they will disrupt the ordinary lives of almost everybody in the country," he added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:33 Sky News questions Hancock about coronavirus
The government has up to now told members of the public they should stay at home for seven days if they have either a high temperature above 37.8C (100F) or a new continuous cough.
It comes as Boris Johnson is to ask firms to join a "national effort" and ramp up the production of ventilators.
Mr Hancock said the UK is likely to need "many times more than" the current 5,000 in the country.
"We're saying (to manufacturers) if you produce a ventilator, we'll buy it. No number is too high," he said.
Image: The PM wants to ramp up the production of ventilators
The health secretary said the government is also asking firms to switch production lines to make more ventilators and other critical care equipment.
The prime minister is holding a conference call with manufacturers on Sunday to ask them to step up.
The ventilators are needed to help people with severe symptoms to breathe properly when a sticky mucus fills their lungs.
The NHS could also buy up thousands of beds in private hospitals to boost capacity if COVID-19 spreads rapidly.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
A government bill on emergency powers to deal with the outbreak is to be set out on Tuesday and published on Thursday, said Mr Hancock.
He said it would include a broad range of measures and that the government was "absolutely ready" to ban gatherings of more than 500 people.
"We will take these decisions at the right time. I'm absolutely ready to take actions like that," said Mr Hancock.
He confirmed ministers were seeking to give police powers to arrest and forcibly quarantine people who are sick with the virus but are not self-isolating.
A government COBRA meeting will discuss the latest plans on Monday amid criticism from scientists that its plan is "risking lives" by not immediately bringing in social distancing measures.
In other developments:
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6:30pm on Sunday, with experts answering your questions. #AskSkyNews


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Italy records 368 new COVID-19 deaths - largest number in a day

Italy has recorded 368 new coronavirus deaths - its largest number of fatalities in a day since the start of the outbreak .
A total of 1,809 people with COVID-19 have now died in the country , which is the hardest-hit by the virus in Europe , as the number of cases rose to more than 24,700 .
It comes after Spain saw its number of coronavirus deaths more than double in a day to 288 .
The country joined Italy by going into lockdown with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez imposing tight movement restrictions on its 47 million citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency .
All schools , universities , restaurants , bars and hotels in Spain have been closed nationwide along with non-essential stores - a move some of the hardest-hit communities have already carried out .
In other developments in the spread of coronavirus around the world : • Ireland 's government is asking all pubs to close from midnight on Sunday until at least 29 March • Germany is to introduce temporarily introduce controls on borders with Austria , Switzerland , France , Luxembourg and Denmark from Monday • The UK Foreign Office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the US - a day after Donald Trump announced a ban on UK and Irish flights to America • Austria is to ban gatherings of more than five people from Monday • The Czech Republic 's prime minister said a quarantine for the entire country is likely to be declared to fight the outbreak • The Netherlands reported eight more coronavirus deaths , taking its total to 20 • A cruise ship carrying at least 600 Britons is stranded off the coast of the Bahamas after some passengers reported flu-like symptoms • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than a month early as countries attempt to halt the spread of coronavirus • Cyprus says it will only allow people into country with medical clearance , and those who do arrive will be placed in compulsory quarantine for two weeks • Tunisia asks its citizens for financial donations to help tackle coronavirus • Hungary confirmed its first death of a patient with COVID-19 The 288 coronavirus deaths in Spain is up from 136 announced on Saturday .
The country has recorded 7,753 infections , up from 5,700 on Saturday , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capital Madrid .
Begona Gomez , the wife of Spain 's prime minister , has tested positive for COVID-19 , the disease caused by coronavirus , with the couple said to be in good health .
Two ministers from Mr Sanchez 's cabinet were also diagnosed with the virus earlier this week .
The UK Foreign Office updated its travel advice for Spain on Sunday , warning people against all but essential travel to the whole of the country after previously warning against going to certain regions .
British holidaymakers ' travel plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of flights and holidays in Spain were cancelled over coronavirus fears .
Jet2 planes heading to Spain turned back mid-flight on Saturday morning after the airline announced the cancellation of flights to the country , as well as the Balearic and the Canary Islands .
Meanwhile , travel company TUI cancelled holidays in Spain booked for this weekend .
France , where 120 people have died from the virus , has closed all `` non-essential '' shops over the pandemic .
It was confirmed on Sunday that more than 5,400 people have tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise of nearly 1,000 cases on the previous day .
There have been more than 156,000 suspected and confirmed coronavirus cases around the world and more than 5,800 deaths linked to the virus , according to Johns Hopkins University , which is tracking the outbreak .
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm , with experts answering your questions # AskSkyNews at 12.30pm

Italy has recorded 368 new coronavirus deaths - its largest number of fatalities in a day since the start of the outbreak.
A total of 1,809 people with COVID-19 have now died in the country, which is the hardest-hit by the virus in Europe, as the number of cases rose to more than 24,700.
It comes after Spain saw its number of coronavirus deaths more than double in a day to 288.
Image: Paramedics remove a coronavirus patient from her home near Madrid
The country joined Italy by going into lockdown with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez imposing tight movement restrictions on its 47 million citizens as part of a 15-day state of emergency.
All schools, universities, restaurants, bars and hotels in Spain have been closed nationwide along with non-essential stores - a move some of the hardest-hit communities have already carried out.
In other developments in the spread of coronavirus around the world:
Ireland's government is asking all pubs to close from midnight on Sunday until at least 29 March
Germany is to introduce temporarily introduce controls on borders with Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg and Denmark from Monday
The UK Foreign Office has warned against all but essential travel to the US - a day after Donald Trump announced a ban on UK and Irish flights to America
has warned against all but essential travel to the US - a day after Donald Trump announced a ban on UK and Irish flights to America Austria is to ban gatherings of more than five people from Monday
The Czech Republic's prime minister said a quarantine for the entire country is likely to be declared to fight the outbreak
The Netherlands reported eight more coronavirus deaths, taking its total to 20
A cruise ship carrying at least 600 Britons is stranded off the coast of the Bahamas after some passengers reported flu-like symptoms
carrying at least 600 Britons is stranded off the coast of the Bahamas after some passengers reported flu-like symptoms Ski resorts across Europe have shut down more than a month early as countries attempt to halt the spread of coronavirus
across Europe have shut down more than a month early as countries attempt to halt the spread of coronavirus Cyprus says it will only allow people into country with medical clearance, and those who do arrive will be placed in compulsory quarantine for two weeks
Tunisia asks its citizens for financial donations to help tackle coronavirus
Hungary confirmed its first death of a patient with COVID-19
The 288 coronavirus deaths in Spain is up from 136 announced on Saturday.
The country has recorded 7,753 infections, up from 5,700 on Saturday, with around half of these concentrated in the capital Madrid.
Begona Gomez, the wife of Spain's prime minister, has tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, with the couple said to be in good health.
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Image: Pedro Sanchez's wife Begona Gomez has tested positive for COVID-19
Two ministers from Mr Sanchez's cabinet were also diagnosed with the virus earlier this week.
The UK Foreign Office updated its travel advice for Spain on Sunday, warning people against all but essential travel to the whole of the country after previously warning against going to certain regions.
British holidaymakers' travel plans have been thrown into disarray after dozens of flights and holidays in Spain were cancelled over coronavirus fears.
Jet2 planes heading to Spain turned back mid-flight on Saturday morning after the airline announced the cancellation of flights to the country, as well as the Balearic and the Canary Islands.
Meanwhile, travel company TUI cancelled holidays in Spain booked for this weekend.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 Italy: Obituaries show huge surge in virus deaths
France, where 120 people have died from the virus, has closed all "non-essential" shops over the pandemic.
It was confirmed on Sunday that more than 5,400 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in France - a rise of nearly 1,000 cases on the previous day.
There have been more than 156,000 suspected and confirmed coronavirus cases around the world and more than 5,800 deaths linked to the virus, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the outbreak.
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews at 12.30pm


news--2020-03-14--Coronavirus: How Saturday Night Takeaway, pubs, and cinemas are keeping audiences safe

The government is expected to table legislation in the Commons next week which would ban gatherings of more than 500 people .
While some of the largest sports leagues and entertainers have already taken action , smaller venues and cinemas say a shutdown could do serious harm to their businesses .
Sky News has spoken to pubs , cinemas and live TV broadcasters to see what they 're doing to keep customers and audiences safe .
For independent bars and clubs , the prospect of a lack of revenue is daunting .
The Royal Vauxhall Tavern ( RVT ) is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pubs , frequently selling out cabaret and club nights like Duckie and Push The Button .
The chancellor Rishi Sunak , in his recent budget , announced the abolition of business rates for certain companies to help them during the COVID-19 pandemic .
But this has n't alleviated the RVT 's chief executive James Lindsay 's concerns .
`` The government took a step in the week to give businesses a rate-free period , but it 's not helping us in any way , '' he told Sky News .
`` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the virus , we 're not covered by our insurance .
It is uncomfortable thinking at the moment . ''
Mr Lindsay added that the impact of the outbreak could affect the wider nightlife industry .
Kate Nicholls , chief executive of trade body UK Hospitality , said : `` This is a question of survival for hospitality businesses .
In two months they will run out of cash , putting hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk . ''
Wetherspoons , one of the most popular pub chains in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be closing pubs .
In a statement on their website , however , the chain said it would be `` educating employees on prevention '' and `` cleaning and sanitising contact points more frequently '' .
Film production and promotion schedules have been affected by the outbreak , with Disney pushing back the release of its remake of Mulan and the soft reboot of the X-Men franchise , The New Mutants .
The UK Cinema Association , which represents the interests of UK cinema operators , has said COVID-19 should not mean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But the organisation warned : `` The decision by a number of US studios to delay the release of several of their upcoming major films presents an unprecedented challenge to many UK cinemas , and is something which may genuinely call into question the survival of a number of sites . ''
One UK chain , Showcase Cinemas , has taken measures into their own hands , ahead of government and public health advice .
In an email to customers , Showcase said it would be reducing audience capacity by 50 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ space between seats .
`` If staff or a guest at the cinema is showing symptoms such as a fever , cough or shortness of breath , they will be respectfully asked to leave , '' the company said in the email .
ITV , whose entertainment programmes like Dancing On Ice and The Voice UK rely heavily on live audiences , has told Sky News that it would prefer shows to be made without an audience .
In a message of guidance to production teams , the company said the measure is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ productions '' are being assessed .
But Ant And Dec 's Saturday Night Takeaway , one of the UK 's most popular Saturday night programmes , will continue to go ahead `` business as usual '' according to one of its presenters Declan Donnelly .
ITV also said that fewer than 500 people are in the studio for Saturday Night Takeaway , adding it would comply with advice given by Public Health England and the World Health Organisation .
The channel went on to say : `` All of our audience handling agencies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS site with audiences prior to attending our shows and we continue to work with them to update advice as and when it changes . ''
Channel 5 is taking further steps .
The channel said in a statement : `` As a precautionary measure we have taken the decision not to have a live studio audience for The Jeremy Vine Show for the time being .
`` We will continue to monitor and review official guidelines and advice . ''
The BBC and Channel 4 will continue to air shows in front @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As well as well as creating television programmes , the BBC also records and airs radio programmes like The News Quiz and The Now Show , which often require a live audience .
The corporation said : `` We 're keeping the situation with our audience-based programmes under review .
`` While the current government advice does n't necessarily prevent such programmes taking place , this is a rapidly evolving situation and we take seriously our duty of care to audiences , panellists and our staff . ''
Channel 4 , whose programmes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ audiences , also said it would be looking at advice given by Public Health England .
`` We and our production partners across all of our shows are continuing to monitor the situation very closely . ''

The government is expected to table legislation in the Commons next week which would ban gatherings of more than 500 people.
While some of the largest sports leagues and entertainers have already taken action, smaller venues and cinemas say a shutdown could do serious harm to their businesses.
Sky News has spoken to pubs, cinemas and live TV broadcasters to see what they're doing to keep customers and audiences safe.
Pubs and clubs
For independent bars and clubs, the prospect of a lack of revenue is daunting.
The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (RVT) is one of London's most famous LGBT+ pubs, frequently selling out cabaret and club nights like Duckie and Push The Button.
The chancellor Rishi Sunak, in his recent budget, announced the abolition of business rates for certain companies to help them during the COVID-19 pandemic. But this hasn't alleviated the RVT's chief executive James Lindsay's concerns.
Image: The owner of the pub told Sky News that the pandemic made for "uncomfortable thinking"
"The government took a step in the week to give businesses a rate-free period, but it's not helping us in any way," he told Sky News.
"It's really concerning. Because of the nature of the virus, we're not covered by our insurance. It is uncomfortable thinking at the moment."
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Mr Lindsay added that the impact of the outbreak could affect the wider nightlife industry.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of trade body UK Hospitality, said: "This is a question of survival for hospitality businesses. In two months they will run out of cash, putting hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk."
Wetherspoons, one of the most popular pub chains in the UK, has yet to say whether they will be closing pubs.
In a statement on their website, however, the chain said it would be "educating employees on prevention" and "cleaning and sanitising contact points more frequently".
Cinemas
Film production and promotion schedules have been affected by the outbreak, with Disney pushing back the release of its remake of Mulan and the soft reboot of the X-Men franchise, The New Mutants.
The UK Cinema Association, which represents the interests of UK cinema operators, has said COVID-19 should not mean the public cannot visit the cinema.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:16 During a virus outbreak misinformation can be more contagious than the virus itself. So how do we combat it?
But the organisation warned: "The decision by a number of US studios to delay the release of several of their upcoming major films presents an unprecedented challenge to many UK cinemas, and is something which may genuinely call into question the survival of a number of sites."
One UK chain, Showcase Cinemas, has taken measures into their own hands, ahead of government and public health advice.
In an email to customers, Showcase said it would be reducing audience capacity by 50% in auditoriums in order to allow for space between seats.
"If staff or a guest at the cinema is showing symptoms such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath, they will be respectfully asked to leave," the company said in the email.
Live Television
ITV, whose entertainment programmes like Dancing On Ice and The Voice UK rely heavily on live audiences, has told Sky News that it would prefer shows to be made without an audience.
In a message of guidance to production teams, the company said the measure is "precautionary" and that "all productions" are being assessed.
But Ant And Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway, one of the UK's most popular Saturday night programmes, will continue to go ahead "business as usual" according to one of its presenters Declan Donnelly.
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ITV also said that fewer than 500 people are in the studio for Saturday Night Takeaway, adding it would comply with advice given by Public Health England and the World Health Organisation.
The channel went on to say: "All of our audience handling agencies are sharing the updated advice from the NHS site with audiences prior to attending our shows and we continue to work with them to update advice as and when it changes."
Image: Ant And Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway often takes viewers abroad to celebrate the show's final episode of the series
Channel 5 is taking further steps. The channel said in a statement: "As a precautionary measure we have taken the decision not to have a live studio audience for The Jeremy Vine Show for the time being.
"We will continue to monitor and review official guidelines and advice."
Image: Channel 5 has announced there will be no audience members in upcoming editions of Jeremy Vine's daytime talk show
The BBC and Channel 4 will continue to air shows in front of live audiences - for now.
As well as well as creating television programmes, the BBC also records and airs radio programmes like The News Quiz and The Now Show, which often require a live audience.
The corporation said: "We're keeping the situation with our audience-based programmes under review.
"While the current government advice doesn't necessarily prevent such programmes taking place, this is a rapidly evolving situation and we take seriously our duty of care to audiences, panellists and our staff."
Image: The Last Leg, hosted by (L to R) Adam Hills, Alex Brooker and Josh Widdicombe, is one programme Channel 4 hosts which requires a live audience
Channel 4, whose programmes Countdown and The Last Leg use live audiences, also said it would be looking at advice given by Public Health England.
"We and our production partners across all of our shows are continuing to monitor the situation very closely."


news--2020-03-14--Coronavirus: Donald Trump tests negative for COVID-19 after meeting infected Brazilian official

Donald Trump has tested negative for coronavirus after a meeting with Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro and a staff member who tested positive , the president 's doctor said .
The White House released the test results on Saturday night after Mr Trump revealed hours earlier he had taken the COVID-19 test .
He had refused to be tested for days despite being in direct and indirect contact with several people who have coronavirus , including three who he spent time with last weekend at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida .
One of the trio was the Brazilian president 's communications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive on Thursday .
Mr Trump and vice president Mike Pence had said they did not need to be tested as they had `` almost no interactions '' with him , although he posted a picture on Instagram of himself next to the pair and was seen in a video just behind the two presidents .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Late on Friday , the Brazilian Embassy in Washington said the country 's charge d'affaires , Nestor Forster , tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table at a dinner .
The third infected person attended a campaign fundraiser with the president , according to two Republican officials who spoke on condition of anonymity .
Mr Trump had been reluctant to take the test in case it projected weakness or worry , two people close to the White House said .
• Ten more patients have died in England after testing positive for COVID-19 , bringing the total UK deaths to 21 • The PM will be told by Virgin Atlantic bosses that the airline industry needs government aid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ learns • Hundreds of people , including scientists , have written to the government urging immediate `` more restrictive measures '' be brought in to enforce social distancing • Donald Trump confirms European travel ban is to be extended to the UK and Ireland on Monday , as he tests negative for coronavirus after meeting an infected Brazilian official • Jet2 planes heading to Spain turned back in mid-air as the airline announced it was cancelling all flights to the country • Private hospital beds may be taken over for coronavirus patients On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases had been confirmed in the US , but Dr Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease said the outbreak had not yet reached its peak .
Mr Trump extended a European travel ban on Saturday to include the UK and Ireland after a sharp rise in cases and deaths .
Before becoming president , Mr Trump admitted he was scared of germs and tried to avoid handshakes .
However , on Saturday he said since becoming a politician he has found it difficult to resist shaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday where Mr Trump declared a national emergency , he shook hands of several corporate executives even though the White House 's health policy experts have urged Americans to avoid physical contact .
The White House has introduced temperatures checks on anyone who is in close contact with Mr Trump and Mr Pence , including reporters who attend White House briefings and anyone entering the Oval Office .

Donald Trump has tested negative for coronavirus after a meeting with Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro and a staff member who tested positive, the president's doctor said.
The White House released the test results on Saturday night after Mr Trump revealed hours earlier he had taken the COVID-19 test.
He had refused to be tested for days despite being in direct and indirect contact with several people who have coronavirus, including three who he spent time with last weekend at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.
Image: Donald Trump was pictured with Fabio Wajngarten (right) who later tested positive for coronavirus. Pic: Instagram
One of the trio was the Brazilian president's communications director, Fabio Wajngarten, who tested positive on Thursday.
Mr Trump and vice president Mike Pence had said they did not need to be tested as they had "almost no interactions" with him, although he posted a picture on Instagram of himself next to the pair and was seen in a video just behind the two presidents.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Late on Friday, the Brazilian Embassy in Washington said the country's charge d'affaires, Nestor Forster, tested positive after sitting at Mr Trump's table at a dinner.
The third infected person attended a campaign fundraiser with the president, according to two Republican officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Mr Trump had been reluctant to take the test in case it projected weakness or worry, two people close to the White House said.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 Trump: I am declaring a national emergency
In other developments:
On Saturday, a total of 2,226 COVID-19 cases had been confirmed in the US, but Dr Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease said the outbreak had not yet reached its peak.
Mr Trump extended a European travel ban on Saturday to include the UK and Ireland after a sharp rise in cases and deaths.
Before becoming president, Mr Trump admitted he was scared of germs and tried to avoid handshakes.
However, on Saturday he said since becoming a politician he has found it difficult to resist shaking hands.
Image: President Trump thanked those working to stop COVID-19 in the US
At a news conference on Friday where Mr Trump declared a national emergency, he shook hands of several corporate executives even though the White House's health policy experts have urged Americans to avoid physical contact.
The White House has introduced temperatures checks on anyone who is in close contact with Mr Trump and Mr Pence, including reporters who attend White House briefings and anyone entering the Oval Office.


news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Why the pandemic may still be hurting the environment

Reduced air pollution , empty roads and clear skies have now become a common sight in locked-down towns and cities around the world .
However , a charity has warned that COVID-19 has still had a negative impact on the environment .
Ocean Conservatory vice president Doug Cress said the coronavirus has meant `` much higher numbers '' of plastic waste are being dumped in the oceans .
Even before the pandemic began , eight million metric tonnes of plastic was making its way into our seas .
Mr Cress said : `` [ There 's ] all the personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take into account the plastic coming out of the food industry or the takeout that is becoming the only way to service restaurants . ''
He stressed that when it comes to protective equipment , the priority is public safety .
And although he said `` there 's no point having this battle now about plastic '' , he warned there is `` no doubt '' that discussions will need to be had when things return to normal .
`` I think we were making good progress .
In many cases you saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was a tremendous focus on other types of packaging and waste management , '' he said .
`` This has all been rolled back dramatically due to coronavirus and we will have to regain that ground . ''
It is n't all doom and gloom .
According to the World Meteorological Organisation , global carbon dioxide emissions will likely drop by 6 % this year as a result of the pandemic .
Mr Cress said he hoped the many photographs of lockdown 's positive ecological effect will teach people to consume less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and be kinder to the environment .
`` Sometimes extreme measures produce extreme results , '' he said .
`` My message first would be take care of yourself… but as we go forward , take these lessons to heart and do n't forget how beautiful it was to see clear blue oceans and clear blue skies and mountains in the Vista . ''

Reduced air pollution, empty roads and clear skies have now become a common sight in locked-down towns and cities around the world.
However, a charity has warned that COVID-19 has still had a negative impact on the environment.
Ocean Conservatory vice president Doug Cress said the coronavirus has meant "much higher numbers" of plastic waste are being dumped in the oceans.
Image: There are concerns too much plastic is still being flushed into oceans
Even before the pandemic began, eight million metric tonnes of plastic was making its way into our seas.
Mr Cress said: "[There's] all the personal protection items - that doesn't even take into account the plastic coming out of the food industry or the takeout that is becoming the only way to service restaurants."
He stressed that when it comes to protective equipment, the priority is public safety.
And although he said "there's no point having this battle now about plastic", he warned there is "no doubt" that discussions will need to be had when things return to normal.
"I think we were making good progress. In many cases you saw where plastic bags were banned, where there was a tremendous focus on other types of packaging and waste management," he said.
"This has all been rolled back dramatically due to coronavirus and we will have to regain that ground."
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It isn't all doom and gloom. According to the World Meteorological Organisation, global carbon dioxide emissions will likely drop by 6% this year as a result of the pandemic.
Mr Cress said he hoped the many photographs of lockdown's positive ecological effect will teach people to consume less than they did in a pre-pandemic world, and be kinder to the environment.
"Sometimes extreme measures produce extreme results," he said.
"My message first would be take care of yourself… but as we go forward, take these lessons to heart and don't forget how beautiful it was to see clear blue oceans and clear blue skies and mountains in the Vista."


news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Criminal trials could allow a minimum jury size of seven

Justice minister Chris Philp has told the Justice Select Committee that the government could consider allowing a minimum jury size of seven in criminal trials .
He said there is `` no question '' of jury trials being stopped , but added that `` if we have further emergency legislation from coronavirus , which is far from certain , in fact it 's probably less likely than likely , we might consider having a minimum jury size of seven rather than nine as it currently is . ''
He also confirmed that around half the usual number of hearings are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on average before coronavirus , 8,320 hearings - including civil , family tribunals and criminal hearings - took place a day , compared to 4,066 on the 27 April .
85 % of hearings during the pandemic have taken place remotely .
He added he was `` proud '' that the judicial system has continued to function `` at a level '' , adding that in most European countries the court system has `` closed down completely '' .
Ellie Cumbo , head of public law at the Law Society , told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involving witnesses did n't go ahead .
She said that it is difficult for witnesses ' needs to be `` properly understood '' when they are heard by video link .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker She said : `` Witnesses are not able to give their best evidence if they are not confident , either about the technology or because of a disjointed hearing . ''
Concerns were also raised about care proceedings being carried out remotely .
Elspeth Thomson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee , said : `` There are a lot of issues with remote hearings , particularly with parents in care proceedings who 's only device to access it is a mobile phone , sometimes a cracked mobile phone at home .
`` They 're trying to access court bundles , sometimes they ca n't do that on a phone… '' In my view , the way that we need to move forward is some sort of hybrid system , that has to focus on what the lay parties can do , particularly for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committee was also warned about the detrimental impact COVID-19 is having on the legal profession .
Bill Waddington , chairman at the Criminal Law Solicitors Association , said that the pandemic is `` a long term , ongoing , dramatic , perilous situation for the high street criminal legal aid practitioner '' .
John Bache , national chairman at the Magistrates Association , suggested that magistrates retirement age be delayed to deal with the `` backlog '' of cases because of COVID-19 .
He said : `` The retirement age needs to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment magistrates are being made to retire at 70 and there 's going to be a huge loss of very experienced magistrates who are able to give a lot of time and if they 're not going to be available then the backlog is going to be even longer than it is already . ''
This week Kay Burley will be hosting a live Q & A with Health Secretary Matt Hancock .
You can put your questions to Mr Hancock about the coronavirus and its impact on your life live on Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or you can record a video clip of your question on your phone - and send it to AskTheHealthSecretary @ sky.uk

Justice minister Chris Philp has told the Justice Select Committee that the government could consider allowing a minimum jury size of seven in criminal trials.
He said there is "no question" of jury trials being stopped, but added that "if we have further emergency legislation from coronavirus, which is far from certain, in fact it's probably less likely than likely, we might consider having a minimum jury size of seven rather than nine as it currently is."
He also confirmed that around half the usual number of hearings are taking place.
Mr Philp said that on average before coronavirus, 8,320 hearings - including civil, family tribunals and criminal hearings - took place a day, compared to 4,066 on the 27 April. 85% of hearings during the pandemic have taken place remotely.
He added he was "proud" that the judicial system has continued to function "at a level", adding that in most European countries the court system has "closed down completely".
Ellie Cumbo, head of public law at the Law Society, told the hearing that she would prefer if cases involving witnesses didn't go ahead.
She said that it is difficult for witnesses' needs to be "properly understood" when they are heard by video link.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
She said: "Witnesses are not able to give their best evidence if they are not confident, either about the technology or because of a disjointed hearing."
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Concerns were also raised about care proceedings being carried out remotely.
Elspeth Thomson, co-chair of Resolution's Legal Aid Committee, said: "There are a lot of issues with remote hearings, particularly with parents in care proceedings who's only device to access it is a mobile phone, sometimes a cracked mobile phone at home.
"They're trying to access court bundles, sometimes they can't do that on a phone…
"In my view, the way that we need to move forward is some sort of hybrid system, that has to focus on what the lay parties can do, particularly for parents in care proceedings."
The committee was also warned about the detrimental impact COVID-19 is having on the legal profession.
Bill Waddington , chairman at the Criminal Law Solicitors Association, said that the pandemic is "a long term, ongoing, dramatic, perilous situation for the high street criminal legal aid practitioner".
John Bache, national chairman at the Magistrates Association, suggested that magistrates retirement age be delayed to deal with the "backlog" of cases because of COVID-19.
He said: "The retirement age needs to be thought about very carefully because at the moment magistrates are being made to retire at 70 and there's going to be a huge loss of very experienced magistrates who are able to give a lot of time and if they're not going to be available then the backlog is going to be even longer than it is already."
Image: Burley and Hancock
This week Kay Burley will be hosting a live Q&A with Health Secretary Matt Hancock. You can put your questions to Mr Hancock about the coronavirus and its impact on your life live on Sky News.
Email us your questions - or you can record a video clip of your question on your phone - and send it to AskTheHealthSecretary@sky.uk


news--2020-05-04--BP dropped from portrait award judging panel for first time since 1997

BP will not be on the judging panel for the National Portrait Gallery 's upcoming portrait award for the first time in more than 20 years .
It comes following growing pressure from climate change protesters on arts venues with links to oil companies .
Last year , Extinction Rebellion activists targeted the gallery 's portrait award exhibition , with protesters covering themselves in fake crude oil .
In recent years , the Royal Shakespeare Company , the National Theatre and the Tate have ended partnerships with oil giants including Shell and BP .
The National Portrait Gallery ( NPG @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its prestigious portrait award , as it has done now for 31 years .
However , this year will be the first time there has been no BP representation on the judging panel since 1997 .
Bosses at the gallery say the decision has been made as the judging panel is updated each year .
`` The judging panel is refreshed each year to ensure new perspectives are brought to judge the entries , '' they said in a statement sent to Sky News .
`` The gallery and BP jointly agreed not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judging panel this year . ''
The portrait award is described as the most prestigious portrait painting competition in the world , representing `` the very best in contemporary portrait painting '' .
It has a first prize of £35,000 .
Over the years , the prize has attracted more than 40,000 entries from more than 100 countries .
Due to the coronavirus pandemic , this year 's exhibition will be showcased and the winner announced online from Tuesday 5 May .
BP directed a request for comment back to the National Portrait @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the firm in the UK and Europe told Sky News he was `` disappointed '' arts institutions including the Royal Shakespeare Company had ended partnerships .
Peter Mather said it was wrong to `` demonise and ostracise '' BP from the debate over climate change as the firm could be `` very much part of the solution and part of the future '' .

BP will not be on the judging panel for the National Portrait Gallery's upcoming portrait award for the first time in more than 20 years.
It comes following growing pressure from climate change protesters on arts venues with links to oil companies.
Image: BP is still sponsoring the award but will not be represented on the judging panel
Last year, Extinction Rebellion activists targeted the gallery's portrait award exhibition, with protesters covering themselves in fake crude oil.
In recent years, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre and the Tate have ended partnerships with oil giants including Shell and BP.
The National Portrait Gallery (NPG) has said BP is still sponsoring its prestigious portrait award, as it has done now for 31 years. However, this year will be the first time there has been no BP representation on the judging panel since 1997.
Bosses at the gallery say the decision has been made as the judging panel is updated each year.
"The judging panel is refreshed each year to ensure new perspectives are brought to judge the entries," they said in a statement sent to Sky News.
"The gallery and BP jointly agreed not to have a sponsor representative on the judging panel this year."
The portrait award is described as the most prestigious portrait painting competition in the world, representing "the very best in contemporary portrait painting".
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It has a first prize of £35,000.
Over the years, the prize has attracted more than 40,000 entries from more than 100 countries.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, this year's exhibition will be showcased and the winner announced online from Tuesday 5 May.
BP directed a request for comment back to the National Portrait Gallery.
In November, the head of the firm in the UK and Europe told Sky News he was "disappointed" arts institutions including the Royal Shakespeare Company had ended partnerships.
Peter Mather said it was wrong to "demonise and ostracise" BP from the debate over climate change as the firm could be "very much part of the solution and part of the future".


news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Trump continues to lay blame at China's door as US election looms

Donald Trump 's claim that coronavirus came from a Wuhan lab has been backed by his secretary of state - as the blame game between the US and China continues in full swing .
Mike Pompeo has failed to provide any of the `` enormous evidence '' he says proves that COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab .
This has angered Beijing , which continues to fire back .
Chinese media have been avoiding direct criticism of the US president , and instead hit out at Mr Pompeo - a China hawk - accusing him of losing his `` moral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tabloid The Global Times , Hu Xijin , said Mr Pompeo should present his `` evidence '' to the world .
US intelligence previously made its assessment public , saying it agrees with the `` wide scientific consensus '' that COVID-19 was not manmade , before Mr Trump and Mr Pompeo made their unproven claims .
The Trump administration is not known for its love of scientific consensus - especially in an election year that is also seeing the president 's prize-jewel economy slide into a coma .
Blaming China works because China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far from exemplary - it has been accused of silencing whistleblowers , withholding information and acting too late .
But bad handling from China and America is not mutually exclusive .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Trump continues to herald his own efforts in tackling the crisis , rejecting any criticism that he acted too slowly .
Members of his administration have appeared tone deaf at times in their attempts to back the president in his claims .
His son-in-law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently called the US response a `` success story '' - a cringeworthy comment as the number of deaths is now close to 70,000 , with cases surpassing one million .
This devastating crisis would be no picnic for any president , but it can not be overstated how much the impact of coronavirus on the economy has delivered Mr Trump his worst nightmare .
He was banking on the old certainty that even in the face of his numerous controversies and weak poll numbers , people would enter November ballot boxes with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blame game was kicked off by China when it publicised its own conspiracy theory that the virus had originated in the US and was brought to China by American soldiers .
But now the Trump administration seems more than happy to keep the war of words going .
Mr Trump had initially wavered on China 's culpability , frequently praising President Xi Jinping in the early days of the outbreak .
Now he 's all in on blaming America 's main economic rival .
The 2020 election could see Donald Trump and Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China .
Mr Trump 's campaign is already test-driving this strategy , calling the presumptive democratic nominee `` Beijing Biden '' .
Blaming China is also a strategy that could ultimately serve useful in the `` wartime president '' narrative .
With this strategy , it would promote the idea that Mr Trump did the best he could with a catastrophic pandemic dumped on America 's doorstep by a foreign enemy .

Donald Trump's claim that coronavirus came from a Wuhan lab has been backed by his secretary of state - as the blame game between the US and China continues in full swing.
Mike Pompeo has failed to provide any of the "enormous evidence" he says proves that COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab.
This has angered Beijing, which continues to fire back.
Image: Mike Pompeo says there is 'enormous evidence'
Chinese media have been avoiding direct criticism of the US president, and instead hit out at Mr Pompeo - a China hawk - accusing him of losing his "moral compass".
The editor of state-run tabloid The Global Times, Hu Xijin, said Mr Pompeo should present his "evidence" to the world.
US intelligence previously made its assessment public, saying it agrees with the "wide scientific consensus" that COVID-19 was not manmade, before Mr Trump and Mr Pompeo made their unproven claims.
The Trump administration is not known for its love of scientific consensus - especially in an election year that is also seeing the president's prize-jewel economy slide into a coma.
Blaming China works because China's handling of the crisis has been far from exemplary - it has been accused of silencing whistleblowers, withholding information and acting too late.
But bad handling from China and America is not mutually exclusive.
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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
Mr Trump continues to herald his own efforts in tackling the crisis, rejecting any criticism that he acted too slowly.
Members of his administration have appeared tone deaf at times in their attempts to back the president in his claims.
His son-in-law and senior adviser, Jared Kushner, recently called the US response a "success story" - a cringeworthy comment as the number of deaths is now close to 70,000, with cases surpassing one million.
This devastating crisis would be no picnic for any president, but it cannot be overstated how much the impact of coronavirus on the economy has delivered Mr Trump his worst nightmare.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:28 'Vicious virus should not have left China'
He was banking on the old certainty that even in the face of his numerous controversies and weak poll numbers, people would enter November ballot boxes with their pockets as the priority.
The blame game was kicked off by China when it publicised its own conspiracy theory that the virus had originated in the US and was brought to China by American soldiers.
But now the Trump administration seems more than happy to keep the war of words going.
Mr Trump had initially wavered on China's culpability, frequently praising President Xi Jinping in the early days of the outbreak.
Now he's all in on blaming America's main economic rival.
The 2020 election could see Donald Trump and Joe Biden trying to out-tough each other on China.
Mr Trump's campaign is already test-driving this strategy, calling the presumptive democratic nominee "Beijing Biden".
Blaming China is also a strategy that could ultimately serve useful in the "wartime president" narrative.
With this strategy, it would promote the idea that Mr Trump did the best he could with a catastrophic pandemic dumped on America's doorstep by a foreign enemy.


news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: London Nightingale hospital to go 'on standby' as no new admissions expected

The London NHS Nightingale hospital is to go `` on standby '' because no new coronavirus admissions are expected , Downing Street has said .
The temporary hospital was opened on 3 April at London 's ExCel exhibition centre and is able to hold 4,000 patients .
Built in nine days , it is one of a number set up to help treat the sickest COVID-19 patients transferred from other hospitals .
However , the number of people with the virus in London hospitals has more than halved in the last month to about 2,000 .
The prime minister 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely that in the coming days we will need to be admitting patients to the London Nightingale while coronavirus in the capital remains under control .
`` That 's obviously a very positive thing and we remain grateful to everybody in London for following the government 's advice in helping to protect the NHS .
`` What the Nightingale will be is effectively placed on standby so it would be ready to receive patients should that be required , but we are not anticipating that will be the case . ''
The spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were `` absolutely not '' a waste of money .
He said the fact they had so far not been used in a `` significant way '' was `` something positive '' and showed the NHS had not been overwhelmed .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The Nightingale 's chief executive , Professor Charles Knight , told staff it would `` stand ready '' should cases climb again .
`` As a result , after the last of this our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital will be placed on standby , ready to resume operations as and when needed in the weeks and potentially months to come , '' he said .
The number of patients being treated at each of the country 's Nightingale hospitals is unclear - but demand appears to have fallen well short of worst-case scenarios .
The PM 's spokesman said : `` Manchester has taken some patients already ; Birmingham , Harrogate and Bristol are ready to take patients if needed .
`` The other two are Sunderland and Exeter and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' NHS staff , contractors and about 200 military personnel helped construct the London Nightingale , with the first patients admitted on 7 April .
It is estimated that more than 16,000 members of staff would be needed to run it should it ever reach full capacity .

The London NHS Nightingale hospital is to go "on standby" because no new coronavirus admissions are expected, Downing Street has said.
The temporary hospital was opened on 3 April at London's ExCel exhibition centre and is able to hold 4,000 patients.
Built in nine days, it is one of a number set up to help treat the sickest COVID-19 patients transferred from other hospitals.
However, the number of people with the virus in London hospitals has more than halved in the last month to about 2,000.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:07 Timelapse: The transformation of ExCeL centre
The prime minister's spokesman said: "It's not likely that in the coming days we will need to be admitting patients to the London Nightingale while coronavirus in the capital remains under control.
"That's obviously a very positive thing and we remain grateful to everybody in London for following the government's advice in helping to protect the NHS.
"What the Nightingale will be is effectively placed on standby so it would be ready to receive patients should that be required, but we are not anticipating that will be the case."
Image: Military personnel helped build the hospital in nine days
Image: The hospital treats seriously ill patients already on a ventilator. Pic: ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
The spokesman said the Nightingale hospitals around the UK were "absolutely not" a waste of money.
He said the fact they had so far not been used in a "significant way" was "something positive" and showed the NHS had not been overwhelmed.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The Nightingale's chief executive, Professor Charles Knight, told staff it would "stand ready" should cases climb again.
"As a result, after the last of this our first group of patients leaves, the hospital will be placed on standby, ready to resume operations as and when needed in the weeks and potentially months to come," he said.
Image: Beds fill the cavernous exhibition centre as far as the eye can see
The number of patients being treated at each of the country's Nightingale hospitals is unclear - but demand appears to have fallen well short of worst-case scenarios.
The PM's spokesman said: "Manchester has taken some patients already; Birmingham, Harrogate and Bristol are ready to take patients if needed.
Image: Birmingham's Nightingale is at the National Exhibition Centre
"The other two are Sunderland and Exeter and they are due to open shortly."
NHS staff, contractors and about 200 military personnel helped construct the London Nightingale, with the first patients admitted on 7 April.
It is estimated that more than 16,000 members of staff would be needed to run it should it ever reach full capacity.


news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: 173 years on, Irish repay favour to Native American tribes hit by COVID-19

Native American tribes badly hit by coronavirus have received an unlikely boost after donations poured in from Ireland to repay a favour from 173 years ago .
More than 70 deaths linked to COVID-19 have been reported in Navajo Nation across Utah , New Mexico and Arizona .
A GoFundMe campaign to provide food , water and other essential supplies for families in the territory has raised more than $ 1.5m ( £1.2m ) - and organisers have singled out Irish people for praise following their support .
The campaign has received several donations inspired by the Great Hunger Famine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Native American tribe Choctaw Nation provided $ 170 ( equivalent to $ 5,000 today ) of relief aid to Irish people .
About 60,000 Native Americans had just suffered through the Trail of Tears - a series of compulsory relocations from their ancestral homelands which saw thousands die from hunger , disease , and exhaustion during forced marches - which made them empathetic to Irish people suffering the worst effects of the famine .
A message from one Irish donor , Pat Hayes , said : `` From Ireland , 170 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To our Native American brothers and sisters in your moment of hardship . ''
One of the campaign 's organisers , Vanessa Tulley , said : `` The heartache is real .
We have lost so many of our sacred Navajo elders and youth to COVID-19 .
`` It is truly devastating .
And a dark time in history for our nation .
`` In moments like these , we are so grateful for the love and support we have received from all around the world .
: : Listen to Divided States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify , and Spreaker '' Acts of kindness from indigenous ancestors passed being reciprocated nearly 200 years later through blood memory and interconnectedness .
`` Thank you Ireland for showing solidarity and being here for us . ''
In Ireland , more than 1,300 people have died after contracting coronavirus , with nearly 22,000 confirmed cases of the virus .

Native American tribes badly hit by coronavirus have received an unlikely boost after donations poured in from Ireland to repay a favour from 173 years ago.
More than 70 deaths linked to COVID-19 have been reported in Navajo Nation across Utah, New Mexico and Arizona.
A GoFundMe campaign to provide food, water and other essential supplies for families in the territory has raised more than $1.5m (£1.2m) - and organisers have singled out Irish people for praise following their support.
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The campaign has received several donations inspired by the Great Hunger Famine in Ireland when, in 1847, the Native American tribe Choctaw Nation provided $170 (equivalent to $5,000 today) of relief aid to Irish people.
About 60,000 Native Americans had just suffered through the Trail of Tears - a series of compulsory relocations from their ancestral homelands which saw thousands die from hunger, disease, and exhaustion during forced marches - which made them empathetic to Irish people suffering the worst effects of the famine.
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A message from one Irish donor, Pat Hayes, said: "From Ireland, 170 years later, the favour is returned! To our Native American brothers and sisters in your moment of hardship."
One of the campaign's organisers, Vanessa Tulley, said: "The heartache is real. We have lost so many of our sacred Navajo elders and youth to COVID-19.
Image: Relief workers load supplies for Navajo families quarantined in their homes
Image: A mural warns Navajo residents of the danger of coronavirus disease
"It is truly devastating. And a dark time in history for our nation.
"In moments like these, we are so grateful for the love and support we have received from all around the world.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
"Acts of kindness from indigenous ancestors passed being reciprocated nearly 200 years later through blood memory and interconnectedness.
"Thank you Ireland for showing solidarity and being here for us."
In Ireland, more than 1,300 people have died after contracting coronavirus, with nearly 22,000 confirmed cases of the virus.


news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Twitter, Facebook and Google have 'questions to answer' over disinformation

MPs have accused Twitter , Facebook and Google of being `` unwilling '' to give clear answers on how they are tackling false information during the pandemic .
The social media companies were criticised for their role during the coronavirus pandemic following a hearing with MPs on parliament 's Digital , Culture , Media and Sport Select Committee .
Julian Knight MP , the committee 's chair , accused the companies of dodging direct questions and simply reading prepared answers instead of providing statements of fact .
`` The defensive position demonstrated by the representatives sent by Twitter , Facebook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
Mr Knight added that the companies failed to explain `` what they are doing to tackle the threat posed by record levels of misinformation and disinformation online about COVID-19 , some of it deadly '' .
Sky News has found groups on Facebook calling for the harassment of 5G engineers and celebrating criminal damage to mobile phone masts - despite the social network claiming to be aggressively targeting disinformation .
Many of these false theories are being promoted on Facebook , where groups have been celebrating suspected arson attacks against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damage them .
After the MPs held an evidence session , as part of an inquiry into online harms with the firms , Mr Knight complained : `` The lack of information and detail in the answers we were given showed a disregard for the important process of scrutiny .
`` We 're again asking the social media companies for information that was so woefully lacking in order to prove to parliament and their users that their organisations are open and accountable for their behaviour . ''
Facebook and YouTube have both banned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ misleading information about the coronavirus , although his account remains on Twitter .
In correspondence published on Monday , Mr Knight asked the companies for specific details on whether they have taken action against celebrities for spreading disinformation , and what proportion of people had seen this maliciously false information spread on their platforms .
The companies did not immediately respond to Sky News ' requests for a response .

MPs have accused Twitter, Facebook and Google of being "unwilling" to give clear answers on how they are tackling false information during the pandemic.
The social media companies were criticised for their role during the coronavirus pandemic following a hearing with MPs on parliament's Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee.
Julian Knight MP, the committee's chair, accused the companies of dodging direct questions and simply reading prepared answers instead of providing statements of fact.
"The defensive position demonstrated by the representatives sent by Twitter, Facebook and Google was deeply unhelpful," he said.
Mr Knight added that the companies failed to explain "what they are doing to tackle the threat posed by record levels of misinformation and disinformation online about COVID-19, some of it deadly".
Sky News has found groups on Facebook calling for the harassment of 5G engineers and celebrating criminal damage to mobile phone masts - despite the social network claiming to be aggressively targeting disinformation.
Many of these false theories are being promoted on Facebook, where groups have been celebrating suspected arson attacks against masts and sharing advice on how to damage them.
After the MPs held an evidence session, as part of an inquiry into online harms with the firms, Mr Knight complained: "The lack of information and detail in the answers we were given showed a disregard for the important process of scrutiny.
"We're again asking the social media companies for information that was so woefully lacking in order to prove to parliament and their users that their organisations are open and accountable for their behaviour."
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Facebook and YouTube have both banned conspiracy theorist David Icke after he posted misleading information about the coronavirus, although his account remains on Twitter.
In correspondence published on Monday, Mr Knight asked the companies for specific details on whether they have taken action against celebrities for spreading disinformation, and what proportion of people had seen this maliciously false information spread on their platforms.
The companies did not immediately respond to Sky News' requests for a response.


news--2020-03-04--Coronavirus: Italy shuts all schools and universities as deaths rise

Italy is shutting all schools and universities in an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus .
Italian authorities say 107 people have died and 3,089 have been infected , making it by some distance the worst-affected European nation .
Only schools in the north of the country , where the coronavirus outbreak is centred , had closed so far , but the wider shutdown will last until 15 March .
Announcing the move , Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said the country 's health service risked being overwhelmed .
All sports events will also be played behind closed doors until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Italy v England in the Six Nations rugby .
The outbreak is currently centred on the Lombardy region around Milan , and neighbouring regions of Veneto and Emilia Romagna .
Authorities are now planning to extend the quarantine `` red zone '' to some municipalities in the Bergamo area .
Museums , cinemas and other public places have closed and many events such as fashion shows and trade fairs have been cancelled .
While the north has most cases , nearly all regions of Italy have been affected .
Italy 's educational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Hungary , Ukraine and Morocco reported their first cases of the virus .
Italy 's national health institute has told people to remain at least a metre apart , stop hugging each other and avoid crowded places .
Italy 's weak economic growth is likely to suffer significantly - particularly the huge tourist sector as holidaymakers pull the plug and airlines cut flights .
An exhibition of the Renaissance artist Raphael , which has sold nearly 70,000 tickets , is also threatened .
Organisers in Rome said they are `` keeping our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead as planned '' on Thursday .
• Olympics going ahead as planned in July , say organisers • Ireland reports four new cases , taking total to six • Saudi Arabia extends ban on visiting Mecca to its own citizens • Six more people on cancelled UAE cycling tour test positive • Sweden cases up to 52 after 16 new cases in Stockholm • Slovenia has reported its first case Sky 's science correspondent Thomas Moore said there is suspicion the number of cases reported in Italy does not reflect the true @ @ @ @ @ @ @ College London had found the real number could be between 50,000 and 100,000 - but many have mild symptoms so they do n't realise they have the virus .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Officially , more than 93,000 have been diagnosed worldwide and over 3,100 people have died - the vast majority in China .
However , the daily number of new cases there continues to trend downwards , with just 119 in its latest figures .
The second worst-affected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 142 cases on Wednesday , bringing the total to more than 5,300 .
Iran is also badly affected with more than 3,000 cases and 92 deaths , according to its health ministry .
Twenty-three members of parliament are also said to have contracted the virus .
In the UK , Wednesday saw the biggest jump so far in daily cases as 36 new cases were identified - making 87 in all .
Ireland recorded four new cases , taking the total to six .
America now has more than 130 cases , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of emergency on Wednesday after six new infections .
Ten people have died in Washington state , up one from Tuesday , and the first person also died in California .
Six people have the virus in New York state after an infected man 's family - as well as his neighbour who drove him to hospital - all tested positive .
About 1,000 people in the suburb of Westchester County where the family lives were under self-quarantine as a precaution , said New York governor Andrew Cuomo .
Globally , about 3.4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus , according to latest estimates from the World Health Organization .

Italy is shutting all schools and universities in an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus.
Italian authorities say 107 people have died and 3,089 have been infected, making it by some distance the worst-affected European nation.
Only schools in the north of the country, where the coronavirus outbreak is centred, had closed so far, but the wider shutdown will last until 15 March.
Image: Giuseppe Conte and education minister Lucia Azzolina announced the closure plan
Announcing the move, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said the country's health service risked being overwhelmed.
All sports events will also be played behind closed doors until 3 April, including Serie A football and Italy v England in the Six Nations rugby.
The outbreak is currently centred on the Lombardy region around Milan, and neighbouring regions of Veneto and Emilia Romagna.
Authorities are now planning to extend the quarantine "red zone" to some municipalities in the Bergamo area.
Museums, cinemas and other public places have closed and many events such as fashion shows and trade fairs have been cancelled.
While the north has most cases, nearly all regions of Italy have been affected.
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Image: A nurse takes the temperature of a woman in Cremona, northern Italy
Italy's educational shutdown comes as countries such as Poland, Hungary, Ukraine and Morocco reported their first cases of the virus.
Italy's national health institute has told people to remain at least a metre apart, stop hugging each other and avoid crowded places.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 Coronavirus quarantine: What happens now?
Italy's weak economic growth is likely to suffer significantly - particularly the huge tourist sector as holidaymakers pull the plug and airlines cut flights.
An exhibition of the Renaissance artist Raphael, which has sold nearly 70,000 tickets, is also threatened.
Organisers in Rome said they are "keeping our fingers crossed and praying it can go ahead as planned" on Thursday.
Other developments include:
Bond premiere pushed back seven months
Olympics going ahead as planned in July, say organisers
Ireland reports four new cases, taking total to six
US infections top 130, deaths climb to 11; LA County declares emergency
France cases increase from 212 to 285
Saudi Arabia extends ban on visiting Mecca to its own citizens
Six more people on cancelled UAE cycling tour test positive
Sweden cases up to 52 after 16 new cases in Stockholm
Israel PM tells people to end handshakes and adopt Indian "namaste" greeting
Slovenia has reported its first case
Sky's science correspondent Thomas Moore said there is suspicion the number of cases reported in Italy does not reflect the true scale.
He said researchers from Imperial College London had found the real number could be between 50,000 and 100,000 - but many have mild symptoms so they don't realise they have the virus.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Officially, more than 93,000 have been diagnosed worldwide and over 3,100 people have died - the vast majority in China.
However, the daily number of new cases there continues to trend downwards, with just 119 in its latest figures.
The second worst-affected country is South Korea, which reported 142 cases on Wednesday, bringing the total to more than 5,300.
Iran is also badly affected with more than 3,000 cases and 92 deaths, according to its health ministry. Twenty-three members of parliament are also said to have contracted the virus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 How to contain a global pandemic
In the UK, Wednesday saw the biggest jump so far in daily cases as 36 new cases were identified - making 87 in all. Ireland recorded four new cases, taking the total to six.
America now has more than 130 cases, with Los Angeles County declaring a local state of emergency on Wednesday after six new infections.
Ten people have died in Washington state, up one from Tuesday, and the first person also died in California.
Six people have the virus in New York state after an infected man's family - as well as his neighbour who drove him to hospital - all tested positive.
About 1,000 people in the suburb of Westchester County where the family lives were under self-quarantine as a precaution, said New York governor Andrew Cuomo.
Globally, about 3.4% of infected people have died from the virus, according to latest estimates from the World Health Organization.


news--2020-03-04--Flybe website stops working as company set to go into administration

The website for Flybe - one of Britain 's biggest airlines - has stopped working as the company is expected to go into administration .
The website shows an error message , which says the link is `` no longer live '' .
Flybe planes at airports including Edinburgh were not being refuelled this evening , and engineers were being laid off , according to the Press Association .
Speaking earlier , Mike Clancy , general secretary of the Prospect union , said it would be a `` devastating blow '' if the company collapsed , adding : `` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parts of the UK where other viable options often do n't exist . ''
Flybe employs around 2,000 people and is the only airline that serves some of the UK 's regional airports .
The company had made a renewed plea for ministers to provide emergency financial support .
The company 's situation was made worse by coronavirus , which prompted a `` collapse '' in bookings , one insider said .
Flybe is said to have requested government support in recent days , to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 .
But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company had already asked for a state loan , which appeared to have been rejected .

The website for Flybe - one of Britain's biggest airlines - has stopped working as the company is expected to go into administration.
The website shows an error message, which says the link is "no longer live".
Flybe planes at airports including Edinburgh were not being refuelled this evening, and engineers were being laid off, according to the Press Association.
Speaking earlier, Mike Clancy, general secretary of the Prospect union, said it would be a "devastating blow" if the company collapsed, adding: "The airline provides important connections to and from parts of the UK where other viable options often don't exist."
Image: A notice taped to a Flybe plane at Glasgow Airport on Wednesday evening
Flybe employs around 2,000 people and is the only airline that serves some of the UK's regional airports.
The company had made a renewed plea for ministers to provide emergency financial support.
The company's situation was made worse by coronavirus, which prompted a "collapse" in bookings, one insider said.
Flybe is said to have requested government support in recent days, to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
But the crisis around the virus came after the company had already asked for a state loan, which appeared to have been rejected.


news--2020-03-04--'Extreme' market conditions derail Lakeside owner's £1.5bn fundraising

The owner of some of Britain 's biggest shopping centres is battling to shore up its finances after `` extreme '' market conditions derailed fundraising plans .
Intu had been seeking to tap investors for between £1bn and £1.5bn as it struggles with debt .
But it has now been forced to scrap the plan and said it would look at other options that could include selling off assets .
The move could imply that the knock-on financial effects of the coronavirus outbreak are extending well beyond directly-impacted sectors such as travel and global manufacturing .
Intu did not directly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that `` current uncertainty in the equity markets and retail property investment markets precluded a number of potential investors from committing capital '' .
It comes after global markets last week suffered their worst week since the financial crisis , with $ 5tn ( £3.9bn ) wiped off global share values .
Intu , whose sites include Lakeside in Essex and the Trafford centre in Manchester , has been seeking new funds after being hit by the tough conditions facing the retail sector .
The company owns eight of the UK 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customer visits to its sites every year .
It has borne the brunt of company voluntary arrangements ( CVAs ) - a form of insolvency used by retailers to restructure leases with lower rents - from brands including Debenhams , Toys R Us , House of Fraser , New Look and HMV .
Intu 's financial woes partly stem from the fact that the valuation attached to its property portfolio has been sharply reduced .
It warned in its latest update that if conditions worsened it could be in breach of certain debt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - that need to be met by July .
The company also confirmed - ahead of financial results which have now been pushed back by a week to 12 March - that rental income fell by 9 % last year .
Intu has already disposed of assets including shopping centres in Spain , cut capital spending , and suspended its dividend as it seeks to shore up its finances .
Chief executive Matthew Roberts said : `` We remain focused on fixing our balance sheet in the near term to ensure this business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realise its significant potential .
`` While it is disappointing that the extreme market conditions have prevented us from moving forward with our planned equity raise , I am pleased that a number of alternative options have presented themselves during the process which we will now explore further . ''

The owner of some of Britain's biggest shopping centres is battling to shore up its finances after "extreme" market conditions derailed fundraising plans.
Intu had been seeking to tap investors for between £1bn and £1.5bn as it struggles with debt.
But it has now been forced to scrap the plan and said it would look at other options that could include selling off assets.
Shares opened 44% lower.
The move could imply that the knock-on financial effects of the coronavirus outbreak are extending well beyond directly-impacted sectors such as travel and global manufacturing.
Intu did not directly mention the virus in its statement but said that "current uncertainty in the equity markets and retail property investment markets precluded a number of potential investors from committing capital".
It comes after global markets last week suffered their worst week since the financial crisis, with $5tn (£3.9bn) wiped off global share values.
Image: The Trafford Centre in Manchester is among Intu's properties
Intu, whose sites include Lakeside in Essex and the Trafford centre in Manchester, has been seeking new funds after being hit by the tough conditions facing the retail sector.
The company owns eight of the UK's biggest shopping centres and boasts 400 million customer visits to its sites every year.
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It has borne the brunt of company voluntary arrangements (CVAs) - a form of insolvency used by retailers to restructure leases with lower rents - from brands including Debenhams, Toys R Us, House of Fraser, New Look and HMV.
Intu's financial woes partly stem from the fact that the valuation attached to its property portfolio has been sharply reduced.
It warned in its latest update that if conditions worsened it could be in breach of certain debt covenants - conditions attached to corporate loans - that need to be met by July.
The company also confirmed - ahead of financial results which have now been pushed back by a week to 12 March - that rental income fell by 9% last year.
Intu has already disposed of assets including shopping centres in Spain, cut capital spending, and suspended its dividend as it seeks to shore up its finances.
Chief executive Matthew Roberts said: "We remain focused on fixing our balance sheet in the near term to ensure this business has the financial footing it needs to realise its significant potential.
"While it is disappointing that the extreme market conditions have prevented us from moving forward with our planned equity raise, I am pleased that a number of alternative options have presented themselves during the process which we will now explore further."