news--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: No haircuts, pubs or restaurants until July at the earliest, says Dominic Raab

Britons wo n't be able to get a haircut , visit a pub or dine in a restaurant until 4 July at the `` very earliest '' , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has told Sky News .
Under the government 's three-phase plan for easing the coronavirus lockdown , those who ca n't work from home will be encouraged to return to work from Wednesday .
Mr Raab said this `` modest '' change to the lockdown would include builders and those who work in manufacturing .
A full list of who is being asked to go back to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when the government will also publish a 50-page document on its strategy .
In the second phase of the government 's plan , which would begin on 1 June at the earliest , some shops might be able to reopen .
However , Mr Raab confirmed hairdressers , pubs and restaurants would have to wait until phase three , from 4 July at the `` very earliest '' , to be reconsidered for reopening .
`` From 4 July , at the earliest , we 'll look at other sectors and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also include personal care and people like hairdressers , '' the foreign secretary told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show .
`` Obviously the proximity in those two sectors ... is something where we do n't think we 're ready yet , given where we are with the virus . ''
Towards the end of this month , the government is looking to enforce a 14-day quarantine period on those entering the UK .
When it was suggested this had scuppered the summer holiday plans of many Britons who were looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I 'm really sorry for that and we do understand the sacrifices everyone 's having to make . ''
The foreign secretary also confirmed the government is aiming to `` get all primary school children back into school within a month of the end of the summer term '' .
However , this would not begin until 1 June at the earliest .
Ministers are also aiming for those pupils who will sit GCSEs or A-Levels next year to have `` some access to their teachers '' before the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
From Wednesday , lockdown rules will be relaxed to allow unlimited outdoor exercise and people to play sport - such as golf , basketball , tennis , fishing - as long as it is with others from their household .
Mr Raab also revealed the government is looking at plans to allow `` limited contact '' between families .
`` We 've asked the scientists to look at whether there could be some limited contact between , say , two different households within the same family , for example , we 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on what that would do to the transmission rate , '' he said .
`` Until we 've got that advice back , we 're not in a position to say 'yes you can positively do that ' , but it is something we want to look at . ''
This is likely to apply to meeting in a local park , rather than in each other 's gardens , Sky News understands .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work this week , the government is urging them to avoid public transport , if possible , and instead use a car , cycle or even walk to their workplace .
Mr Raab said `` clear guidance '' on public transport would be published on Tuesday , which is likely to include advice on wearing face coverings .
`` There 's limited evidence on their value , but one thing they can do - in settings where you ca n't be guaranteed to be socially distanced - they can stop you passing it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
`` That 's something , in relation to public transport , that we 'll give advice on shortly , about how that can be done . ''
The foreign secretary said the forthcoming advice would refer to `` the kind of face covering you could prepare or make at home '' , such as scarves , and would be `` distinct '' from face masks worn in hospitals and care homes .
After Prime Minister Boris Johnson set out some of the lockdown changes in a televised address on Sunday night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thomas-Symonds called on the government to now provide `` desperately needed '' clarity on what was changing .
`` What we did n't get last night was clarity and we did n't get , I 'm afraid , consensus , both of which we desperately need , '' he told Sky News .

Britons won't be able to get a haircut, visit a pub or dine in a restaurant until 4 July at the "very earliest", Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has told Sky News.
Under the government's three-phase plan for easing the coronavirus lockdown, those who can't work from home will be encouraged to return to work from Wednesday.
Mr Raab said this "modest" change to the lockdown would include builders and those who work in manufacturing.
Image: Pubs will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest
A full list of who is being asked to go back to work this week will be published later today, when the government will also publish a 50-page document on its strategy.
In the second phase of the government's plan, which would begin on 1 June at the earliest, some shops might be able to reopen.
However, Mr Raab confirmed hairdressers, pubs and restaurants would have to wait until phase three, from 4 July at the "very earliest", to be reconsidered for reopening.
"From 4 July, at the earliest, we'll look at other sectors and that will include hospitality, but it will also include personal care and people like hairdressers," the foreign secretary told Sky News' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show.
"Obviously the proximity in those two sectors... is something where we don't think we're ready yet, given where we are with the virus."
Towards the end of this month, the government is looking to enforce a 14-day quarantine period on those entering the UK.
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When it was suggested this had scuppered the summer holiday plans of many Britons who were looking to travel abroad, Mr Raab replied: "I'm really sorry for that and we do understand the sacrifices everyone's having to make."
The foreign secretary also confirmed the government is aiming to "get all primary school children back into school within a month of the end of the summer term".
However, this would not begin until 1 June at the earliest.
Ministers are also aiming for those pupils who will sit GCSEs or A-Levels next year to have "some access to their teachers" before the end of the summer term, Mr Raab added.
From Wednesday, lockdown rules will be relaxed to allow unlimited outdoor exercise and people to play sport - such as golf, basketball, tennis, fishing - as long as it is with others from their household.
Mr Raab also revealed the government is looking at plans to allow "limited contact" between families.
"We've asked the scientists to look at whether there could be some limited contact between, say, two different households within the same family, for example, we've asked them to give us some advice on what that would do to the transmission rate," he said.
"Until we've got that advice back, we're not in a position to say 'yes you can positively do that', but it is something we want to look at."
This is likely to apply to meeting in a local park, rather than in each other's gardens, Sky News understands.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
With some Britons being encouraged to return to work this week, the government is urging them to avoid public transport, if possible, and instead use a car, cycle or even walk to their workplace.
Mr Raab said "clear guidance" on public transport would be published on Tuesday, which is likely to include advice on wearing face coverings.
"There's limited evidence on their value, but one thing they can do - in settings where you can't be guaranteed to be socially distanced - they can stop you passing it on to other people," he added.
"That's something, in relation to public transport, that we'll give advice on shortly, about how that can be done."
The foreign secretary said the forthcoming advice would refer to "the kind of face covering you could prepare or make at home", such as scarves, and would be "distinct" from face masks worn in hospitals and care homes.
After Prime Minister Boris Johnson set out some of the lockdown changes in a televised address on Sunday night, Labour's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds called on the government to now provide "desperately needed" clarity on what was changing.
"What we didn't get last night was clarity and we didn't get, I'm afraid, consensus, both of which we desperately need," he told Sky News.


news--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Premier League clubs meet as Project Restart looks to get players back in training

Premier League clubs are meeting this morning to discuss plans to restart training as they try to edge towards competitive matches again .
An imminent resumption of the season appears to be off the table however , after the prime minister made no mention of professional sport in his coronavirus lockdown address to the nation on Sunday .
Boris Johnson only said that people could now play sport with members of their own household , with some tennis courts and golf clubs set to reopen this week .
Monday 's Project Restart meeting is to discuss the Premier League 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safely , and how players and staff would be tested and monitored .
They have already been sent to the government for approval .
A date of 18 May had been pencilled in for training but it is still too soon to say when matches will , or can , resume .
Player representatives and managers will also be involved with Project Restart talks on Tuesday and Wednesday , before football officials meet the government on Thursday .
There is not anticipated to be one big vote from the Premier League clubs on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call to agree on different phases .
A Brighton player tested positive in recent days - the third from the club to contract COVID-19 .
The problems of getting football going again were also illustrated this weekend when Spain 's La Liga said five more players had tested positive .
None had symptoms .
Player safety issues are not the only hurdle to be overcome if the Premier League is to finish a season that has seen Liverpool establish a huge 25-point lead .
The bottom-six clubs have reservations about proposals to finish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and believe giving up home advantage could affect their chances of staying up and compromise the integrity of the competition .
Aston Villa , Brighton and Watford are so far the only clubs to publicly voice their concerns about the proposal to finish the campaign at neutral grounds .
However , every club is committed to finishing the season .
Germany 's Bundesliga is set to restart next weekend without spectators , but positive test results from two players at second-tier side Dynamo Dresden have stalled that club 's return .
Some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going again this weekend .
The UFC put on an event without fans in Florida which organisers said was a success - not least because its testing system identified a Brazilian fighter and his cornerman with the virus before they got to the arena .

Premier League clubs are meeting this morning to discuss plans to restart training as they try to edge towards competitive matches again.
An imminent resumption of the season appears to be off the table however, after the prime minister made no mention of professional sport in his coronavirus lockdown address to the nation on Sunday.
Boris Johnson only said that people could now play sport with members of their own household, with some tennis courts and golf clubs set to reopen this week.
Monday's Project Restart meeting is to discuss the Premier League's proposals on how group training could work safely, and how players and staff would be tested and monitored.
They have already been sent to the government for approval.
A date of 18 May had been pencilled in for training but it is still too soon to say when matches will, or can, resume.
Player representatives and managers will also be involved with Project Restart talks on Tuesday and Wednesday, before football officials meet the government on Thursday.
There is not anticipated to be one big vote from the Premier League clubs on the way forward, rather a collective call to agree on different phases.
Image: A third Brighton player has tested positive for the virus
A Brighton player tested positive in recent days - the third from the club to contract COVID-19.
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The problems of getting football going again were also illustrated this weekend when Spain's La Liga said five more players had tested positive. None had symptoms.
Player safety issues are not the only hurdle to be overcome if the Premier League is to finish a season that has seen Liverpool establish a huge 25-point lead.
The bottom-six clubs have reservations about proposals to finish the season by playing at neutral grounds, and believe giving up home advantage could affect their chances of staying up and compromise the integrity of the competition.
Aston Villa, Brighton and Watford are so far the only clubs to publicly voice their concerns about the proposal to finish the campaign at neutral grounds.
However, every club is committed to finishing the season.
Germany's Bundesliga is set to restart next weekend without spectators, but positive test results from two players at second-tier side Dynamo Dresden have stalled that club's return.
Some high-profile sport did successfully manage to get going again this weekend.
The UFC put on an event without fans in Florida which organisers said was a success - not least because its testing system identified a Brazilian fighter and his cornerman with the virus before they got to the arena.


news--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Businesses call for 'clarity' as unions warn of 'recipe for chaos' over return to work

Boris Johnson is facing calls for `` clear guidance '' from businesses and unions after he set out `` the first sketch of a roadmap '' for easing the coronavirus lockdown .
Mr Johnson said `` anyone who ca n't work from home , for instance those in construction and manufacturing , should be actively encouraged to go to work '' .
But workers should avoid public transport `` if at all possible '' because `` we must and will maintain social distancing '' , he added .
Following the prime minister 's announcement , the British Chambers of Commerce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( PPE ) , social distancing and government support schemes was vital .
Adam Marshall , director general of the BCC , said : `` Companies will do everything they can to protect employees and customers , maintain social distancing and operate successfully as more sections of the economy are permitted to reopen .
`` Businesses will need to see detailed plans for the phased easing of restrictions , coordinated with all nations across the UK and supported by clear guidance .
It is imperative that companies have detailed advice on what will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including clarity on the use of PPE .
`` Firms will also need to know that government support schemes , which have helped save millions of jobs in recent weeks , will continue for as long as they are needed so that they can plan ahead with confidence .
`` The timing of further easing of restrictions must be guided by the public health evidence , but businesses need their practical questions answered so they can plan to restart , rebuild and renew . ''
Jonathan Geldart , director general of the Institute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clarity so that companies can plan how to return safely .
`` As people with ultimate legal responsibility , directors need to have confidence that it 's safe , and that if they act responsibly they wo n't be at undue risk .
Businesses should consult with their people to put in place robust policies , which in many cases might not be an overnight process .
`` For a large number of firms , operating under social distancing rules will mean significantly reduced activity , so the government 's support measures must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flexible furlough system would help businesses get back on their feet , bringing people back to workplaces gradually .
Meanwhile , countless small company directors continue to find themselves left out in the cold , unable to access the government 's aid , and this need to be changed quickly . ''
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Richard Jones , of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health , insisted that health and safety must come first .
`` People @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certain that they 're properly managing the risk of infection and providing the support that workers need , '' he said .
`` Prevention has to be the focus because , if organisations do n't get this right , workplaces can become places of transmission . ''
With the prime minister yet to say how workplaces would be made `` COVID-secure '' with social distancing measures and PPE , unions quickly struck out at the plans .
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said : `` Boris Johnson 's statement will cause working people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The government still has n't published guidance on how workers will be kept safe .
So how can the prime minister - with 12 hours ' notice - tell people they should be going back to sites and factories ?
It 's a recipe for chaos . ''
John Philips , acting general secretary of the GMB , said : `` More mixed messages from the government - saying there 's no end to lockdown , but asking everyone to go back to work .
`` If ministers want the economy moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hygiene and social distancing , enough PPE for everyone , and regulations employers ca n't just ignore if they fancy it .
`` The overall message is contradictory and confusing , when what people really need is clarity . ''
The Rail , Maritime and Transport union advised its members not to work if they felt unsafe , saying the government was shifting away from the stay at home message , which would unleash a surge in passengers on the railways and Tubes from Monday , breaching social-distancing measures with `` potentially lethal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Dave Ward , general secretary of the Communication Workers Union , said the new `` stay alert '' slogan was meaningless rhetoric , adding : `` The prime minister told millions of people they can immediately return to work - with 12 hours notice for many , telling them they ca n't use public transport and with no assurances on whether PPE , social distancing and other safety measures will be in place .
`` That was n't a message from the prime minister .
It was a message from big business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Mr Johnson will provide more detailed plans to gradually ease the lockdown today when the government publishes a 50-page document in parliament .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is also said to be considering his next steps for the furlough scheme , which has seen the Treasury spend more than £8bn paying salaries in order to prevent layoffs .

Boris Johnson is facing calls for "clear guidance" from businesses and unions after he set out "the first sketch of a roadmap" for easing the coronavirus lockdown.
Mr Johnson said "anyone who can't work from home, for instance those in construction and manufacturing, should be actively encouraged to go to work".
But workers should avoid public transport "if at all possible" because "we must and will maintain social distancing", he added.
Following the prime minister's announcement, the British Chambers of Commerce said that advice on personal protective equipment (PPE), social distancing and government support schemes was vital.
Adam Marshall, director general of the BCC, said: "Companies will do everything they can to protect employees and customers, maintain social distancing and operate successfully as more sections of the economy are permitted to reopen.
"Businesses will need to see detailed plans for the phased easing of restrictions, coordinated with all nations across the UK and supported by clear guidance. It is imperative that companies have detailed advice on what will need to change in the workplace, including clarity on the use of PPE.
"Firms will also need to know that government support schemes, which have helped save millions of jobs in recent weeks, will continue for as long as they are needed so that they can plan ahead with confidence.
"The timing of further easing of restrictions must be guided by the public health evidence, but businesses need their practical questions answered so they can plan to restart, rebuild and renew."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:28 'Go to work if you can't work from home'
Jonathan Geldart, director general of the Institute of Directors, also called for further clarity so that companies can plan how to return safely.
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"As people with ultimate legal responsibility, directors need to have confidence that it's safe, and that if they act responsibly they won't be at undue risk. Businesses should consult with their people to put in place robust policies, which in many cases might not be an overnight process.
"For a large number of firms, operating under social distancing rules will mean significantly reduced activity, so the government's support measures must match continuing restrictions.
"A more flexible furlough system would help businesses get back on their feet, bringing people back to workplaces gradually. Meanwhile, countless small company directors continue to find themselves left out in the cold, unable to access the government's aid, and this need to be changed quickly."
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Richard Jones, of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, insisted that health and safety must come first.
"People shouldn't re-enter workplaces until employers are certain that they're properly managing the risk of infection and providing the support that workers need," he said.
"Prevention has to be the focus because, if organisations don't get this right, workplaces can become places of transmission."
With the prime minister yet to say how workplaces would be made "COVID-secure" with social distancing measures and PPE, unions quickly struck out at the plans.
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: "Boris Johnson's statement will cause working people a lot of confusion and anxiety.
"The government still hasn't published guidance on how workers will be kept safe. So how can the prime minister - with 12 hours' notice - tell people they should be going back to sites and factories? It's a recipe for chaos."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 Nations divided over lockdown easing
John Philips, acting general secretary of the GMB, said: "More mixed messages from the government - saying there's no end to lockdown, but asking everyone to go back to work.
"If ministers want the economy moving again, we need strict rules on hygiene and social distancing, enough PPE for everyone, and regulations employers can't just ignore if they fancy it.
"The overall message is contradictory and confusing, when what people really need is clarity."
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union advised its members not to work if they felt unsafe, saying the government was shifting away from the stay at home message, which would unleash a surge in passengers on the railways and Tubes from Monday, breaching social-distancing measures with "potentially lethal consequences" for staff and the public.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:46 What do the new lockdown rules mean?
Dave Ward, general secretary of the Communication Workers Union, said the new "stay alert" slogan was meaningless rhetoric, adding: "The prime minister told millions of people they can immediately return to work - with 12 hours notice for many, telling them they can't use public transport and with no assurances on whether PPE, social distancing and other safety measures will be in place.
"That wasn't a message from the prime minister. It was a message from big business and those who put profit before people."
Mr Johnson will provide more detailed plans to gradually ease the lockdown today when the government publishes a 50-page document in parliament.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is also said to be considering his next steps for the furlough scheme, which has seen the Treasury spend more than £8bn paying salaries in order to prevent layoffs.


news--2020-05-26--Coronavirus lockdown: Which shops will open next week?

After 11 weeks of lockdown , thousands of high street shops , department stores and markets across England - as well as zoos and safari parks - can start reopening from next week .
In the latest easing of coronavirus lockdown measures , from Monday 15 June non-essential shops will be able to open their doors for the first time since 23 March .
And zoos and other outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars , such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas , will also be allowed to reopen on the same day .
However , other businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest .
Here 's how the lockdown is being eased : • Non-essential retailers , including clothes shops and indoor markets , will be allowed to reopen if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures • Zoos , safari parks and drive-in cinemas can also reopen The government says it has issued guidance for people who `` work in or run shops , branches , stores or similar environments '' .
The guidance also applies to those currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offices and chemists .
On its website , it has listed shops and branches as follows : • gift shops and retail spaces in theatres , museums , libraries , heritage sites and tourism sites Shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies have remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic , and have introduced new safety measures , such as hand sanitisers for customer and staff use , floor markings and protective screens at checkouts .
From 4 July at the earliest : • Pubs , restaurants , hairdressers , nail bars and the hospitality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next month The government says `` the risk of transmission in these environments is higher where long periods of person-to-person contact is required '' .
What has already been allowed ?
• Outdoor markets and spacious car showrooms were allowed to reopen , as the government said that , as with garden centres , the risk of catching COVID-19 is lower outside where it is generally easier to apply social distancing • Dentists have been able to resume providing face-to-face care : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are planning to reopen have been told to consider a number of measures to reassure customers and staff , including : • Placing a poster in their windows to demonstrate awareness of the guidance • Storing returned items for 72 hours before putting them back out on the shop floor • Placing protective coverings on large items touched by the public such as beds or sofas • Frequently cleaning objects and surfaces that are touched regularly , including self-checkouts , trolleys , coffee machines and betting terminals The government has repeatedly said any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upon progress against five tests set for relaxing restrictions .
• To make sure the NHS can cope by providing sufficient critical care across the UK • To see a sustained and consistent fall in daily death rates with confidence the UK is beyond the peak • Reliable data to show the infection rate is falling to manageable levels • There is enough testing and personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to meet future demand • Any changes in restrictions would not lead to a second peak The picture in the other parts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all shops allowed to open from Friday in Northern Ireland .
But no dates have been set for the reopening of non-essential shops in Scotland and Wales , although each country has set out its planned stages for lifting lockdown .
• One other household can be met in public spaces/parks in small numbers under social distancing • Short distances can be travelled for leisure and exercise • More staff will return to schools • More children will have access to critical childcare • Outdoor workplaces will reopen with distancing measures in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start to resume • The housing market will also begin to reopen • Drive-through food outlets and takeaways are open , but not their associated cafes • Garden centres are also back in business under social distancing rules • Unrestricted outdoor exercise is allowed if it is non-contact and distancing can be maintained • Golf , hiking , canoeing , outdoor swimming and angling are allowed in the local area • Many NHS services , including fertility treatment and community services , have restarted In Wales , there will be no new guidelines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers must review rules , first minister Mark Drakeford said on Tuesday .
Restrictions were recently loosened to allow people to travel locally and meet individuals from another household .

After 11 weeks of lockdown, thousands of high street shops, department stores and markets across England - as well as zoos and safari parks - can start reopening from next week.
In the latest easing of coronavirus lockdown measures, from Monday 15 June non-essential shops will be able to open their doors for the first time since 23 March.
And zoos and other outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars, such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas, will also be allowed to reopen on the same day.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Pubs and restaurants not opening yet
However, other businesses - including pubs, restaurants and hairdressers - will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest.
Here's how the lockdown is being eased:
From 15 June:
Non-essential retailers, including clothes shops and indoor markets, will be allowed to reopen if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures
risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures Zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas can also reopen
The government says it has issued guidance for people who "work in or run shops, branches, stores or similar environments".
The guidance also applies to those currently open, such as banks, post offices and chemists.
On its website, it has listed shops and branches as follows:
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food retailers
chemists
hardware/homeware stores
fashion shops
charity shops
betting shops and arcades
tailors, dress fitters and fashion designers
car dealerships
auction houses
antique stores
retail art galleries
photography studios
gift shops and retail spaces in theatres, museums, libraries, heritage sites and tourism sites
mobile phone stores
indoor and outdoor markets
craft fairs
similar types of retail
Shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies have remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and have introduced new safety measures, such as hand sanitisers for customer and staff use, floor markings and protective screens at checkouts.
From 4 July at the earliest:
Pubs, restaurants, hairdressers, nail bars and the hospitality sector will remain shut until at least next month
The government says "the risk of transmission in these environments is higher where long periods of person-to-person contact is required".
What has already been allowed?
From 1 June:
Outdoor markets and spacious car showrooms were allowed to reopen, as the government said that, as with garden centres, the risk of catching COVID-19 is lower outside where it is generally easier to apply social distancing
From 8 June:
Dentists have been able to resume providing face-to-face care
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Shops that are planning to reopen have been told to consider a number of measures to reassure customers and staff, including:
Placing a poster in their windows to demonstrate awareness of the guidance
Storing returned items for 72 hours before putting them back out on the shop floor
Placing protective coverings on large items touched by the public such as beds or sofas
Frequently cleaning objects and surfaces that are touched regularly, including self-checkouts, trolleys, coffee machines and betting terminals
The government has repeatedly said any changes to lockdown measures will be contingent upon progress against five tests set for relaxing restrictions.
These are:
To make sure the NHS can cope by providing sufficient critical care across the UK
To see a sustained and consistent fall in daily death rates with confidence the UK is beyond the peak
Reliable data to show the infection rate is falling to manageable levels
There is enough testing and personal protective equipment (PPE) to meet future demand
Any changes in restrictions would not lead to a second peak
The picture in the other parts of the UK is mixed, with all shops allowed to open from Friday in Northern Ireland.
But no dates have been set for the reopening of non-essential shops in Scotland and Wales, although each country has set out its planned stages for lifting lockdown.
Scotland:
One other household can be met in public spaces/parks in small numbers under social distancing
Short distances can be travelled for leisure and exercise
Some workplaces will reopen
International border measures will be introduced
More staff will return to schools
More children will have access to critical childcare
Childminding and outdoor nursery provision can reopen
Outdoor workplaces will reopen with distancing measures in place, while the construction sector will also start to resume
The housing market will also begin to reopen
Drive-through food outlets and takeaways are open, but not their associated cafes
Garden centres are also back in business under social distancing rules
Unrestricted outdoor exercise is allowed if it is non-contact and distancing can be maintained
Golf, hiking, canoeing, outdoor swimming and angling are allowed in the local area
Household waste recycling centres have opened again
Many NHS services, including fertility treatment and community services, have restarted
In Wales, there will be no new guidelines until 19 June, the day after ministers must review rules, first minister Mark Drakeford said on Tuesday.
Restrictions were recently loosened to allow people to travel locally and meet individuals from another household.


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: Demand for emergency loans hits nearly £35bn

Companies in the UK have borrowed nearly £35bn from three emergency loan programmes brought in by the government for businesses impacted by the coronavirus crisis .
Data released by the Treasury showed there had been a 10.28 % rise in new loans issued in the week to 7 June to £34.91bn .
Treasury data also revealed that loans issued under the Bounce Back Loan Scheme for smallest businesses saw the strongest demand at £23.78bn issued by 7 June , up by £2.45bn from the previous week .
The BBLS , which gives loans of up to £50,000 with 100 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after signs that other lending schemes were not sufficiently reaching all businesses that needed help .
The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme ( CBILS ) , which carries an 80 % government guarantee reached £9.6bn , up by £640m a week earlier .
CBILS offers loans up to £5m to small and medium-sized businesses with the first year 's interest and fees paid by the taxpayer .
The scheme has been heavily criticised in the past for the slow pace at which banks have processed loans to companies facing devastating disruption to trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ More than £1.5bn was issued under the loan scheme designed for larger companies .
The Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme offers loans of up to £200m with 80 % government guarantee to medium and large enterprises .
Some 228,194 applications for loans from businesses of all sizes are still pending approval or rejection .
The Treasury also released data showing 8.9 million workers had been furloughed under its job retention scheme , which pays 80 % of salaries to employees that are temporarily laid off and costing the government £19.6bn since its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-employed people had received 2.6 million claims for £7.5bn .

Companies in the UK have borrowed nearly £35bn from three emergency loan programmes brought in by the government for businesses impacted by the coronavirus crisis.
Data released by the Treasury showed there had been a 10.28% rise in new loans issued in the week to 7 June to £34.91bn.
Treasury data also revealed that loans issued under the Bounce Back Loan Scheme for smallest businesses saw the strongest demand at £23.78bn issued by 7 June, up by £2.45bn from the previous week.
The BBLS, which gives loans of up to £50,000 with 100% government guarantee, was launched in May after signs that other lending schemes were not sufficiently reaching all businesses that needed help.
The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), which carries an 80% government guarantee reached £9.6bn, up by £640m a week earlier.
Image: CBILS has been criticised in the past for their slow issuance
CBILS offers loans up to £5m to small and medium-sized businesses with the first year's interest and fees paid by the taxpayer.
The scheme has been heavily criticised in the past for the slow pace at which banks have processed loans to companies facing devastating disruption to trade due to the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:38 COVID-19: Is the govt's loan scheme working?
More than £1.5bn was issued under the loan scheme designed for larger companies. The Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme offers loans of up to £200m with 80% government guarantee to medium and large enterprises.
Some 228,194 applications for loans from businesses of all sizes are still pending approval or rejection.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:16 Loans scheme: Govt 'has not acted decisively'
The Treasury also released data showing 8.9 million workers had been furloughed under its job retention scheme, which pays 80% of salaries to employees that are temporarily laid off and costing the government £19.6bn since its introduction March.
A separate scheme for self-employed people had received 2.6 million claims for £7.5bn.


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: Hong Kong bails out Cathay Pacific in £4bn rescue deal

Hong Kong 's government has bailed out Cathay Pacific airlines through a £4bn rescue package .
The airline said the Hong Kong government will provide HK $ 27.3bn ( £2.7bn ) in the form of preference shares , warrants and a loan .
Under the deal , the government will receive an equity stake in the airline and the right to have two observer seats at board meetings .
The government said the bailout was intended to maintain the territory 's status as a major aviation hub and it does intend on holding the stake over the long term .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ also added that while the government had no plans to get involved in the company 's operations , it expected an internal rate of return from its investment between 4 % and 7.5 % .
The airline will also raise a further HK $ 11.7bn ( £1.2bn ) by issuing new shares to existing shareholders .
Swire Pacific , Air China and Qatar Airways , which previously owned 45 % , 30 % and 10 % of the airline , will now see their holdings diluted to 42 % , 28 % and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Hong Kong-listed company 's chairman said Cathay may raise further funds in the form if equity or debt in the future .
Cathay Pacific had grounded most of its fleet due to falling demand amid coronavirus-related travel restrictions .
The company said revenues had fallen to just 1 % of the previous year 's levels and it had been burning through £250m per month since the COVID-19 pandemic began .
While it has furloughed pilots around the world and cut cabin crew roles in the US and Canada , it has not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The airline however did say it will undertake a further round of pay cuts for its executive team as well as launch a second voluntary exit scheme for employees .
Governments around the world have stepped in to provide aid to struggling airlines with Germany 's Lufthansa most recently receiving a €9bn ( £8bn ) rescue package .
In April , major US airlines received $ 25bn in grants from the US government on the agreement that they will retain jobs until October .
Shares in Cathay Pacific Airways had fallen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , after it was caught up in the demonstrations in Hong Kong .
It 's former chief executive Rupert Hogg stepped down during the crisis .
Pro-democracy protests in the Asian financial hub have risen to be one of the biggest popular challenges to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012 .

Hong Kong's government has bailed out Cathay Pacific airlines through a £4bn rescue package.
The airline said the Hong Kong government will provide HK$27.3bn (£2.7bn) in the form of preference shares, warrants and a loan.
Under the deal, the government will receive an equity stake in the airline and the right to have two observer seats at board meetings.
The government said the bailout was intended to maintain the territory's status as a major aviation hub and it does intend on holding the stake over the long term.
Hong Kong's Finance Secretary Paul Chan also added that while the government had no plans to get involved in the company's operations, it expected an internal rate of return from its investment between 4% and 7.5%.
The airline will also raise a further HK$11.7bn (£1.2bn) by issuing new shares to existing shareholders.
Swire Pacific, Air China and Qatar Airways, which previously owned 45%, 30% and 10% of the airline, will now see their holdings diluted to 42%, 28% and 9.4% respectively.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:03 How airlines are responding to COVID challenge
Patrick Healy, the Hong Kong-listed company's chairman said Cathay may raise further funds in the form if equity or debt in the future.
Cathay Pacific had grounded most of its fleet due to falling demand amid coronavirus-related travel restrictions.
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The company said revenues had fallen to just 1% of the previous year's levels and it had been burning through £250m per month since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
While it has furloughed pilots around the world and cut cabin crew roles in the US and Canada, it has not announced any large-scale reduction in permanent jobs.
The airline however did say it will undertake a further round of pay cuts for its executive team as well as launch a second voluntary exit scheme for employees.
Governments around the world have stepped in to provide aid to struggling airlines with Germany's Lufthansa most recently receiving a €9bn (£8bn) rescue package.
In April, major US airlines received $25bn in grants from the US government on the agreement that they will retain jobs until October.
Shares in Cathay Pacific Airways had fallen to a decade low, even before the pandemic, after it was caught up in the demonstrations in Hong Kong. It's former chief executive Rupert Hogg stepped down during the crisis.
Pro-democracy protests in the Asian financial hub have risen to be one of the biggest popular challenges to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.


news--2020-05-26--Coronavirus: Spain to welcome tourists from 1 July with no quarantine

Tourists will be able to visit Spain from 1 July without having to quarantine for two weeks .
The government said cabinet ministers made the decision to lift the mandatory coronavirus quarantine during a meeting on Monday .
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez had already announced over the weekend that Spain was ready to welcome some foreign visitors in July but did not say if they would have to continue to stay in quarantine for two weeks .
He is also looking to establish reciprocal safe corridors between parts of Spain that have the outbreak under control and similar areas in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tourists .
So far , Spain - one of the world 's most visited countries with 80 million tourists a year - has only mentioned European Union countries when talking about reopening to travellers .
Tourism accounts for 12 % of Spain 's GDP , employing 2.6 million people , with the Canary and Balearic archipelagos relying almost solely on tourists .
The coronavirus pandemic hit Spain just as it was beginning its tourism season , with everything from hotels , bars and restaurants to beaches and leisure parks shut down .
Restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with bars in some parts of the country allowed to open their terraces last week , and museums and churches reopening .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Madrid and Barcelona , both national epicentres of the virus , are the latest cities to have been allowed to follow suit on Monday .
The country 's La Liga football league will restart from 8 June , Mr Sanchez announced over the weekend .
He also said there would be a 10-day period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday .
On Monday , Spain 's health ministry corrected its official COVID-19 death toll , saying almost 2,000 fewer people than previously thought had died from the disease .

Tourists will be able to visit Spain from 1 July without having to quarantine for two weeks.
The government said cabinet ministers made the decision to lift the mandatory coronavirus quarantine during a meeting on Monday.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez had already announced over the weekend that Spain was ready to welcome some foreign visitors in July but did not say if they would have to continue to stay in quarantine for two weeks.
Image: Spain has allowed bars with terraces to open
He is also looking to establish reciprocal safe corridors between parts of Spain that have the outbreak under control and similar areas in Europe that are an important source of tourists.
So far, Spain - one of the world's most visited countries with 80 million tourists a year - has only mentioned European Union countries when talking about reopening to travellers.
Tourism accounts for 12% of Spain's GDP, employing 2.6 million people, with the Canary and Balearic archipelagos relying almost solely on tourists.
The coronavirus pandemic hit Spain just as it was beginning its tourism season, with everything from hotels, bars and restaurants to beaches and leisure parks shut down.
Restrictions on movement have gradually been eased, with bars in some parts of the country allowed to open their terraces last week, and museums and churches reopening.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
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Madrid and Barcelona, both national epicentres of the virus, are the latest cities to have been allowed to follow suit on Monday.
The country's La Liga football league will restart from 8 June, Mr Sanchez announced over the weekend.
He also said there would be a 10-day period of national mourning for victims starting on Tuesday.
On Monday, Spain's health ministry corrected its official COVID-19 death toll, saying almost 2,000 fewer people than previously thought had died from the disease.
The latest figure stands at 26,834 deaths.


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: BAT pours cold water on pandemic immunity for tobacco firms

Tobacco companies , traditionally , are among the safest investments around .
Their customers , worldwide , number 1.1 billion and they are literally addicted to the product .
This guarantees a reliable and relatively predictable earnings stream .
Moreover , as more and more governments ban tobacco advertising and sponsorship , it is difficult for newcomers to enter the market .
As economies around the world began to lockdown , in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 , there was even anecdotal evidence to suggest some people were smoking more due to the stressed circumstances .
Accordingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of February and the beginning of March , tobacco stocks fell only marginally .
However , that wisdom has been challenged by a trading update from British American Tobacco , the world 's second-biggest quoted tobacco firm after the US giant Philip Morris .
It suggests even this sector has felt the effects of COVID-19 .
BAT , whose brands include Dunhill , Lucky Strike , Rothmans , Peter Stuyvesant and Craven A , said its sales in developed markets since the beginning of the year had been strong .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people 'down trading ' to cheaper brands and that its US business in particular had been `` highly resilient '' throughout the crisis .
But it added : `` The impact of COVID-19 in emerging markets has been more pronounced , including in Bangladesh , Vietnam and Malaysia .
`` In addition , closures and other lockdown measures in certain countries , in particular South Africa , Mexico and Argentina , have persisted longer than anticipated .
In South Africa , there are still no signs of the COVID-19 related tobacco sales ban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hit to international travel from the lockdowns , which hit duty free sales , had also been problematic .
The company added : `` Together with the previously announced impact on international travel retail sales , this means that we now anticipate , in total , a full year headwind of [ around ] 3 % from COVID-19 on constant currency adjusted revenue . ''
It said that , as a result , it expected full year sales to rise by between 1-3 % compared with the 3-5 % to which it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also said it was pushing back the target date for achieving £5bn worth of annual sales from 'new categories ' , such as e-cigarettes , to 2025 - compared with an original target of 2023-24 .
The company , whose new category products included the heated tobacco product glo and the vaping product Vype , said COVID-19 had delayed some product launches and led to disruption of supplies in some markets .
The news sent shares of BAT , the ninth-largest company in the FTSE-100 index , down by 4.8 % at one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stockbroker Investec , said : `` Although the downgrade versus previous expectations is minor , today 's statement undermines the highly defensive perception the market has of BAT , which had been reinforced throughout the global crisis up until now . ''
Tadeu Marroco , BAT 's chief financial officer , told analysts on a conference call that what the company was seeing in markets like Bangladesh , Vietnam and Malaysia was `` pretty much '' caused by various lockdown measures .
He added : `` When we have stringent measures like curfews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those markets , you just promote a disruption of distribution and sales .
`` Another factor is that a lot of the consumption in these markets are social consumption .
So you go to Vietnam , for example , and…the consumption that happens in hotels , pubs , restaurants , where people get together and smoke , and they were all completely shut down .
`` And some of those measures took longer than we were expecting . ''
Mr Marroco said BAT was also worried that , when workers - especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jobs , that could also hit sales .
But he insisted : `` This is not the first recession that we have been through .
We had something similar , or the same dynamics , let me put it that way , 10 years ago . ''
He said BAT also had a number of low-price and 'value for money ' tobacco brands to which smokers could switch .
Mr Marocco said that , in some markets , the lockdown had even benefited BAT because they had prevented the sale of smuggled or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` You go to Brazil , for example , where you know that illicit is a persistent problem for many years now .
Most of these products come from Paraguay .
And , with the border closed and the lockdown in place , we are actually seeing an increase in volumes in Brazil as a consequence . ''
There was also good news for investors on the dividend front .
BAT insisted that unlike its rival Imperial Brands , which recently cut its dividend by one-third , it would not be changing its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earnings to shareholders in the dividend .
That will be particularly important for the millions of Britons who have exposure to BAT through their pensions and life policies .
Following Royal Dutch Shell 's shock cut to its dividend , last month , BAT is now the second-biggest dividend payer in the FTSE-100 after BP .
With the latter 's payout now thought to be vulnerable to a cut as well , it may soon become the biggest .

Sky's Ian King sees further dividend damage on the way as BAT admits a greater hit from COVID-19 than had been anticipated.
Tobacco companies, traditionally, are among the safest investments around.
Their customers, worldwide, number 1.1 billion and they are literally addicted to the product. This guarantees a reliable and relatively predictable earnings stream.
Moreover, as more and more governments ban tobacco advertising and sponsorship, it is difficult for newcomers to enter the market.
Image: Dunhill is among BAT's brands
As economies around the world began to lockdown, in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19, there was even anecdotal evidence to suggest some people were smoking more due to the stressed circumstances.
Accordingly, as global stock markets collapsed at the end of February and the beginning of March, tobacco stocks fell only marginally.
However, that wisdom has been challenged by a trading update from British American Tobacco, the world's second-biggest quoted tobacco firm after the US giant Philip Morris.
It suggests even this sector has felt the effects of COVID-19.
BAT, whose brands include Dunhill, Lucky Strike, Rothmans, Peter Stuyvesant and Craven A, said its sales in developed markets since the beginning of the year had been strong.
It said there had been little evidence of people 'down trading' to cheaper brands and that its US business in particular had been "highly resilient" throughout the crisis.
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But it added: "The impact of COVID-19 in emerging markets has been more pronounced, including in Bangladesh, Vietnam and Malaysia.
Image: Cigarette sales were hit by lockdowns in BAT's emerging markets
"In addition, closures and other lockdown measures in certain countries, in particular South Africa, Mexico and Argentina, have persisted longer than anticipated. In South Africa, there are still no signs of the COVID-19 related tobacco sales ban being lifted."
BAT warned that the hit to international travel from the lockdowns, which hit duty free sales, had also been problematic.
The company added: "Together with the previously announced impact on international travel retail sales, this means that we now anticipate, in total, a full year headwind of [around] 3% from COVID-19 on constant currency adjusted revenue."
It said that, as a result, it expected full year sales to rise by between 1-3% compared with the 3-5% to which it had previously been guiding investors.
BAT also said it was pushing back the target date for achieving £5bn worth of annual sales from 'new categories', such as e-cigarettes, to 2025 - compared with an original target of 2023-24.
The company, whose new category products included the heated tobacco product glo and the vaping product Vype, said COVID-19 had delayed some product launches and led to disruption of supplies in some markets.
Image: E-cigarettes do not burn tobacco, produce tar or carbon monoxide
The news sent shares of BAT, the ninth-largest company in the FTSE-100 index, down by 4.8% at one point.
Alicia Forry, analyst at stockbroker Investec, said: "Although the downgrade versus previous expectations is minor, today's statement undermines the highly defensive perception the market has of BAT, which had been reinforced throughout the global crisis up until now."
Tadeu Marroco, BAT's chief financial officer, told analysts on a conference call that what the company was seeing in markets like Bangladesh, Vietnam and Malaysia was "pretty much" caused by various lockdown measures.
He added: "When we have stringent measures like curfews, that we saw in a number of those markets, you just promote a disruption of distribution and sales.
"Another factor is that a lot of the consumption in these markets are social consumption. So you go to Vietnam, for example, and…the consumption that happens in hotels, pubs, restaurants, where people get together and smoke, and they were all completely shut down.
"And some of those measures took longer than we were expecting."
Mr Marroco said BAT was also worried that, when workers - especially casual workers - began to lose their jobs, that could also hit sales.
But he insisted: "This is not the first recession that we have been through. We had something similar, or the same dynamics, let me put it that way, 10 years ago."
He said BAT also had a number of low-price and 'value for money' tobacco brands to which smokers could switch.
Mr Marocco said that, in some markets, the lockdown had even benefited BAT because they had prevented the sale of smuggled or illicit tobacco.
He went on: "You go to Brazil, for example, where you know that illicit is a persistent problem for many years now. Most of these products come from Paraguay. And, with the border closed and the lockdown in place, we are actually seeing an increase in volumes in Brazil as a consequence."
There was also good news for investors on the dividend front. BAT insisted that unlike its rival Imperial Brands, which recently cut its dividend by one-third, it would not be changing its policy of paying out 65% of earnings to shareholders in the dividend.
That will be particularly important for the millions of Britons who have exposure to BAT through their pensions and life policies. Following Royal Dutch Shell's shock cut to its dividend, last month, BAT is now the second-biggest dividend payer in the FTSE-100 after BP.
With the latter's payout now thought to be vulnerable to a cut as well, it may soon become the biggest.


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: Cash boost for debt advice as '£6bn tsunami' hits households

The Treasury has announced extra cash to support debt advice charities as a report warns of a £6bn personal debt mountain facing household budgets , directly caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
The government said £37.8m in additional support for debt charities in England was the result of recognition that `` some people are struggling with their finances '' as the COVID-19 crisis lockdown restrictions continue to wreak havoc on the economy , despite just under £50bn being dispersed to prop up jobs and businesses at the last count .
The announcement was made as separate studies pointed to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with the debt charity StepChange warning that 4.6 million people had already accumulated a `` tsunami '' of debt or arrears of more than £6bn .
It believed those with annual incomes below £30,000 are likely to have fallen behind since the crisis began .
Chief executive Phil Andrew said : `` We were already dealing with a debt crisis , but COVID has so far added another four million people and counting to the number who are going to need help finding their way back to financial health . ''
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foundation think tank , as it also called for a strengthening of central government support to middle and lower income households .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Its research , based on a survey last month , found just one in eight households on low incomes had managed to strengthen their finances since the start of the crisis compared to two fifths of higher income families .
It reported that just 30 % of the poorest fifth of households had managed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more vulnerable at a time of uncertainty over incomes .
Laura Gardiner , research director at the Resolution Foundation , said : `` Many high-income families have reduced their spending in recent months .
`` Those on lower incomes , however , have found it far harder to reduce spending which , when combined with income falls , means many are seeing their ability to manage financially deteriorate .
`` As policymakers prepare their plan to support Britain 's recovery , they must prioritise strengthening the family finances of low- to middle-income households @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , has admitted that the government 's schemes will save many jobs but not all .
The most recent predictions from the Bank of England suggest the UK 's jobless rate will more than double to 9 % this year as the country endures its worst economic slump for decades .
However , data released by the Bank a week ago suggested that the country 's consumer debt mountain had fallen by £7.5bn in April - the first full month of the lockdown .
The government said that its additional support to debt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been made available in the current financial year to support those struggling .
The new money , partly funded by bank taxes , is to be distributed by the Money and Pensions Service .
Economic secretary to the Treasury John Glen said : `` We know that some people are struggling with their finances during this difficult time , which is why we want to make sure people can access the help and support they need to manage their debts and get their finances back on track .
`` The joint funding package @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with - and increase - their vital work .
`` This extra funding comes on top of the unprecedented package we have put in place to support individuals , businesses and the economy through the coronavirus outbreak . ''

The Treasury has announced extra cash to support debt advice charities as a report warns of a £6bn personal debt mountain facing household budgets, directly caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The government said £37.8m in additional support for debt charities in England was the result of recognition that "some people are struggling with their finances" as the COVID-19 crisis lockdown restrictions continue to wreak havoc on the economy, despite just under £50bn being dispersed to prop up jobs and businesses at the last count.
The announcement was made as separate studies pointed to a devastating impact on family finances since March, with the debt charity StepChange warning that 4.6 million people had already accumulated a "tsunami" of debt or arrears of more than £6bn.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:57 How will the economy be reignited?
It believed those with annual incomes below £30,000 are likely to have fallen behind since the crisis began.
Chief executive Phil Andrew said: "We were already dealing with a debt crisis, but COVID has so far added another four million people and counting to the number who are going to need help finding their way back to financial health."
That sentiment was echoed by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation think tank, as it also called for a strengthening of central government support to middle and lower income households.
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Its research, based on a survey last month, found just one in eight households on low incomes had managed to strengthen their finances since the start of the crisis compared to two fifths of higher income families.
It reported that just 30% of the poorest fifth of households had managed to cut their spending - leaving them more vulnerable at a time of uncertainty over incomes.
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Laura Gardiner, research director at the Resolution Foundation, said: "Many high-income families have reduced their spending in recent months.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:54 Quarantine 'quite a costly exercise' for UK economy
"Those on lower incomes, however, have found it far harder to reduce spending which, when combined with income falls, means many are seeing their ability to manage financially deteriorate.
"As policymakers prepare their plan to support Britain's recovery, they must prioritise strengthening the family finances of low- to middle-income households."
The chancellor, Rishi Sunak, has admitted that the government's schemes will save many jobs but not all.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:20 After The Pandemic: Will working life change?
The most recent predictions from the Bank of England suggest the UK's jobless rate will more than double to 9% this year as the country endures its worst economic slump for decades.
However, data released by the Bank a week ago suggested that the country's consumer debt mountain had fallen by £7.5bn in April - the first full month of the lockdown.
The government said that its additional support to debt charities meant that more than £100m had been made available in the current financial year to support those struggling.
The new money, partly funded by bank taxes, is to be distributed by the Money and Pensions Service.
Economic secretary to the Treasury John Glen said: "We know that some people are struggling with their finances during this difficult time, which is why we want to make sure people can access the help and support they need to manage their debts and get their finances back on track.
"The joint funding package will help debt advice providers to continue with - and increase - their vital work.
"This extra funding comes on top of the unprecedented package we have put in place to support individuals, businesses and the economy through the coronavirus outbreak."


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: UK excess deaths down to lowest level since beginning of pandemic

Ed Conway examines the figures , looking at what has improved and what he describes as 'scary ' .
Let 's begin with the good news : the number of excess deaths in the UK is now down to the lowest level since the beginning of the epidemic .
Across the UK , 1,798 more people died in the week to 29 May than historically have done at this point in the year .
That is the lowest total since late March , when UK deaths from the virus were beginning to mount .
The other good news is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is normal at this time of year .
Moreover , the government 's measurement of how many of these deaths are COVID-19 is clearly improving : it recorded just over 2,000 deaths from the virus across the UK in the latest week - accounting for all the excess deaths .
However , the bad news is that the total death toll is still mounting .
Since the beginning of the pandemic , there have been nearly 64,000 excess deaths - just over 63,700 by my calculations .
Of those , just under 50,200 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Only in time will we be able to judge definitively whether the UK has faced the biggest rise in excess deaths of any major economy .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker However , while many other countries are now seeing the number dying dropping below the seasonal average , the UK 's death toll is still mounting each week .
It is possible the toll drops back to `` normal '' levels next week but by the same token , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hoped .

Across the UK, 1,798 more people died in the week to 29 May than historically have done at this point in the year.
Ed Conway examines the figures, looking at what has improved and what he describes as 'scary'.
Let's begin with the good news: the number of excess deaths in the UK is now down to the lowest level since the beginning of the epidemic.
Across the UK, 1,798 more people died in the week to 29 May than historically have done at this point in the year. That is the lowest total since late March, when UK deaths from the virus were beginning to mount.
The other good news is that fewer people are dying in hospitals than is normal at this time of year.
Moreover, the government's measurement of how many of these deaths are COVID-19 is clearly improving: it recorded just over 2,000 deaths from the virus across the UK in the latest week - accounting for all the excess deaths.
However, the bad news is that the total death toll is still mounting.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been nearly 64,000 excess deaths - just over 63,700 by my calculations. Of those, just under 50,200 have been put down to COVID-19.
Only in time will we be able to judge definitively whether the UK has faced the biggest rise in excess deaths of any major economy.
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However, while many other countries are now seeing the number dying dropping below the seasonal average, the UK's death toll is still mounting each week.
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It is possible the toll drops back to "normal" levels next week but by the same token, it is falling more slowly than many had hoped.


news--2020-06-09--Armando Iannucci: COVID-19 crisis engulfing the arts is 'absolutely terrifying'

Armando Iannucci has told Sky News the crisis engulfing the arts is `` absolutely terrifying '' and says the creative industries should be a priority for the government during the coronavirus pandemic .
The producer , director , and writer of hits shows such as The Thick Of It , Veep and Avenue 5 says the sector is `` a fundamental part of the economy '' and protecting the arts should not be seen as `` some kind of charitable '' act .
Music venues , cinemas and theatres across the UK were forced to close due to the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while festivals and other events have also been cancelled and production on TV and film sets halted .
Although lockdown measures are slowly being lifted , there are fears that jobs in the entertainment sector - particularly those at venues that rely on large numbers of people gathering - will be the last to return .
Iannucci says the industry `` employs hundreds of thousands of people '' , yet most are freelance and `` have fallen through the cracks in terms of government support '' .
He has been using lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comedy Avenue 5 , which launched earlier this year , with other writers via Zoom .
However , he is at pains to acknowledge large parts of the sector have come to a standstill , which could have far-reaching repercussions for future generations .
`` We 've got to have something to come back to and if there is nothing there , if three quarters of our theatres are shut , if there is nowhere for music to be played , bands have packed it in because all their money comes from touring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ? ''
he says .
`` It 's important that we think about what 's ahead , to what the cultural life of the country will be like . ''
Iannucci also warned of a potential artistic brain drain , despite having `` a world-beating industry - to coin a phrase from Boris '' .
The next generation of creatives may choose to do something else or go abroad , he says .
`` If they are coming out of design or drama school to nothing , then the chances are they wo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he adds .
Iannucci says because the creative sector is a `` nebulous '' term it is not as easy to label as industries such as aviation or the automotive sector .
However , he says the arts `` contribute more to our gross national product than the oil and car industries combined '' .
As `` one of the most important industries in this country '' it should be considered as such when it comes to government support , he says .
However , there have been some shoots of recovery for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV production has been given the green light to start filming again , under new safety guidelines from the British Film Commission .
Adrian Wootton , from the British Film Commission , says that while producers might be facing `` extraordinary challenges '' in adhering to new working conditions , `` they are convinced they can make the movies they want because they 're adapting all the time '' .
`` There was a billion pounds worth of production suspended in studios across the UK , '' he tells Sky News .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important step on the road to getting that production up and running because it really does mean an enormous amount of jobs for the UK and an enormous amount of money for the UK . ''
Guidance will be updated weekly , he says .
`` What they can do is extraordinary , so while there will be modifications to scripts and schedules and it 'll take longer to make things in this period , I do n't think there will be that radical a difference in terms of storylines or in terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on screen .
`` They will be shot in a different way and they will use technology to suggest things that ca n't be done at the moment . ''
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Twickenham Studios , which has been producing TV and film for the last century , is one of those businesses re-opening , adapting to the new working conditions .
Co-owner Piers Read says that as well as bringing in new safety measures - including temperature testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also looked at how best they can service the industry .
`` This is obviously a film studio complex traditionally , but we are migrating our services to host multi-camera TV entertainment shows in this studio as a result of major broadcasters desperate , like the streamers , to produce original content , '' he says .
Mr Read says that as a result of the lockdown there has been a demand for re-runs , and also for quiz and entertainment shows , and `` that 's exactly what we can host here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ television and film production was one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK economy , employing hundreds of thousands of people .
Lockdown meant more than a billion pounds worth of business was put on hold - and the consensus is that the cameras ca n't start rolling soon enough .

Armando Iannucci has told Sky News the crisis engulfing the arts is "absolutely terrifying" and says the creative industries should be a priority for the government during the coronavirus pandemic.
The producer, director, and writer of hits shows such as The Thick Of It, Veep and Avenue 5 says the sector is "a fundamental part of the economy" and protecting the arts should not be seen as "some kind of charitable" act.
Music venues, cinemas and theatres across the UK were forced to close due to the coronavirus lockdown, now in the 12th week, while festivals and other events have also been cancelled and production on TV and film sets halted.
Image: Hugh Laurie stars in Iannucci's latest comedy, Avenue 5. Pic: HBO/ Sky UK
Although lockdown measures are slowly being lifted, there are fears that jobs in the entertainment sector - particularly those at venues that rely on large numbers of people gathering - will be the last to return.
Iannucci says the industry "employs hundreds of thousands of people", yet most are freelance and "have fallen through the cracks in terms of government support".
He has been using lockdown to finish the second series of space comedy Avenue 5, which launched earlier this year, with other writers via Zoom.
However, he is at pains to acknowledge large parts of the sector have come to a standstill, which could have far-reaching repercussions for future generations.
"We've got to have something to come back to and if there is nothing there, if three quarters of our theatres are shut, if there is nowhere for music to be played, bands have packed it in because all their money comes from touring - then what will there be left?" he says.
"It's important that we think about what's ahead, to what the cultural life of the country will be like."
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Iannucci also warned of a potential artistic brain drain, despite having "a world-beating industry - to coin a phrase from Boris".
The next generation of creatives may choose to do something else or go abroad, he says.
"If they are coming out of design or drama school to nothing, then the chances are they won't stay in the industry," he adds.
Iannucci says because the creative sector is a "nebulous" term it is not as easy to label as industries such as aviation or the automotive sector.
However, he says the arts "contribute more to our gross national product than the oil and car industries combined".
As "one of the most important industries in this country" it should be considered as such when it comes to government support, he says.
However, there have been some shoots of recovery for the sector.
Some UK film and TV production has been given the green light to start filming again, under new safety guidelines from the British Film Commission.
Adrian Wootton, from the British Film Commission, says that while producers might be facing "extraordinary challenges" in adhering to new working conditions, "they are convinced they can make the movies they want because they're adapting all the time".
"There was a billion pounds worth of production suspended in studios across the UK," he tells Sky News.
"Our guidance is intended to be an important step on the road to getting that production up and running because it really does mean an enormous amount of jobs for the UK and an enormous amount of money for the UK."
Guidance will be updated weekly, he says.
"What they can do is extraordinary, so while there will be modifications to scripts and schedules and it'll take longer to make things in this period, I don't think there will be that radical a difference in terms of storylines or in terms of the things you expect to see on screen.
"They will be shot in a different way and they will use technology to suggest things that can't be done at the moment."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Twickenham Studios, which has been producing TV and film for the last century, is one of those businesses re-opening, adapting to the new working conditions.
Co-owner Piers Read says that as well as bringing in new safety measures - including temperature testing and intensive cleaning procedures - they have also looked at how best they can service the industry.
"This is obviously a film studio complex traditionally, but we are migrating our services to host multi-camera TV entertainment shows in this studio as a result of major broadcasters desperate, like the streamers, to produce original content," he says.
Mr Read says that as a result of the lockdown there has been a demand for re-runs, and also for quiz and entertainment shows, and "that's exactly what we can host here".
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, television and film production was one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK economy, employing hundreds of thousands of people.
Lockdown meant more than a billion pounds worth of business was put on hold - and the consensus is that the cameras can't start rolling soon enough.


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: McDonald's to reopen some restaurants to walk-in customers next week

McDonald 's is set to reopen some restaurants to walk-in customers next week after all of its UK outlets were closed due to the coronavirus outbreak .
The move comes as the fast food chain also announced its breakfast menu would return later this month .
McDonald 's said 11 restaurants in Roadchef service stations will open on 17 June for takeaway and click-and-collect orders , allowing customers in for the first time since the lockdown was imposed in March .
The chain said only a certain number of customers will be allowed in each restaurant at any time and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system .
There will be hand-sanitising stations and its seating areas , toilets and lifts will remain closed .
McDonald 's staff will also use face coverings and gloves , while perspex screens and other social-distancing measures have also been introduced .
The chain said it will continue to offer a limited menu over reduced hours for the time being and will cap spending at £25 .
McDonald 's then aims to roll this out gradually to high streets , towns and city centre sites from 24 June if the trial is successful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McMuffins , bagels and hash browns on its breakfast menu on that date , though only in a limited number of restaurants initially .
It hopes to extend the breakfast menu nationwide in July as part of its phased wider reopening .
The move comes after customers were left disappointed when restaurants recently reopened for drive-thru and delivery did not offer the breakfast menu , due to limited staffing capacity amid the coronavirus crisis .
McDonald 's was forced to shut its restaurants across the UK due to COVID-19 lockdown measures .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drive-thru under plans for a gradual restarting of its operations last week .
It is also opening more stores for delivery , with another 570 offering this service across the UK and Ireland from 10 June .
Rivals including Subway , Burger King , Pret A Manger , Nando 's and Wagamama have also recently laid out plans to rapidly open more sites as restaurant chains get to grips with the current lockdown restrictions .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief executive , said : `` Starting on Wednesday 17 June , in 11 Roadchef service station locations , we will welcome motorway users back inside our restaurants for the first time since March .
`` We 're taking our time to get this right , reviewing our processes before we gradually roll-out to high streets , towns and city centres from 24th June onwards . ''
He added : `` I know that opening those doors will be incredibly satisfying for our restaurant teams , but it will also mean them getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to enable us to safely return . ''

McDonald's is set to reopen some restaurants to walk-in customers next week after all of its UK outlets were closed due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The move comes as the fast food chain also announced its breakfast menu would return later this month.
McDonald's said 11 restaurants in Roadchef service stations will open on 17 June for takeaway and click-and-collect orders, allowing customers in for the first time since the lockdown was imposed in March.
The chain said only a certain number of customers will be allowed in each restaurant at any time and they will need to follow a one-way system.
There will be hand-sanitising stations and its seating areas, toilets and lifts will remain closed.
Image: McDonald's has already been offering drive thru services to customers on four wheels
McDonald's staff will also use face coverings and gloves, while perspex screens and other social-distancing measures have also been introduced.
The chain said it will continue to offer a limited menu over reduced hours for the time being and will cap spending at £25.
McDonald's then aims to roll this out gradually to high streets, towns and city centre sites from 24 June if the trial is successful.
Image: Cars queue at a drive thru McDonald's in Stourbridge
The chain will also bring back McMuffins, bagels and hash browns on its breakfast menu on that date, though only in a limited number of restaurants initially.
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It hopes to extend the breakfast menu nationwide in July as part of its phased wider reopening.
The move comes after customers were left disappointed when restaurants recently reopened for drive-thru and delivery did not offer the breakfast menu, due to limited staffing capacity amid the coronavirus crisis.
McDonald's was forced to shut its restaurants across the UK due to COVID-19 lockdown measures.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 Huge queues for McDonald's in New Zealand
The company reopened more than 1,000 sites for drive-thru under plans for a gradual restarting of its operations last week.
It is also opening more stores for delivery, with another 570 offering this service across the UK and Ireland from 10 June.
Rivals including Subway, Burger King, Pret A Manger, Nando's and Wagamama have also recently laid out plans to rapidly open more sites as restaurant chains get to grips with the current lockdown restrictions.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Paul Pomroy, McDonald's UK & Ireland chief executive, said: "Starting on Wednesday 17 June, in 11 Roadchef service station locations, we will welcome motorway users back inside our restaurants for the first time since March.
"We're taking our time to get this right, reviewing our processes before we gradually roll-out to high streets, towns and city centres from 24th June onwards."
He added: "I know that opening those doors will be incredibly satisfying for our restaurant teams, but it will also mean them getting used to the measures we have implemented to enable us to safely return."


news--2020-06-09--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson to announce zoos can reopen in latest easing of lockdown

Zoos and safari parks will be allowed to reopen next week , in the latest moves to relax coronavirus lockdown rules being announced by Boris Johnson .
Bowing to pressure from MPs , animal-lovers and conservationists - including his own father Stanley - the prime minister will declare that zoos can reopen from next Monday , 15 June .
Outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars , such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas , will also be allowed to reopen from Monday , given the low risk of coronavirus transmission .
In an expected announcement of the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily Downing Street news conference , Mr Johnson will stress that reopening will be subject to appropriate social distancing measures being in place .
And , on the advice of scientific and medical experts , indoor attractions at zoos such as reptile houses will have to remain closed and cafes will only be open for takeaway food and drinks .
`` People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike , '' a Downing Street official said ahead of the prime minister 's announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tough and where we can safely open up more attractions , and it is supported by the science , we will do so .
`` This is by necessity a careful process , but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors , while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals . ''
Mr Johnson 's announcement comes ahead of a House of Commons debate on Thursday in which MPs had planned to warn that zoos would close permanently and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unless the government allowed them to reopen .
And pleading for their reopening in The Sun newspaper this week , Mr Johnson 's father , who is president of the Gorilla Organisation , wrote : `` A good zoo not only looks after the welfare of animals , it also makes a vital contribution to conservation . ''
Chester Zoo - praised by Health Secretary Matt Hancock last week as `` close to my heart , coming from Chester myself '' - had warned that it was `` at risk of extinction '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of £24m .
Welcoming the prime minister 's announcement , City of Chester MP Chris Matheson told Sky News : `` It 's a real relief obviously for everyone at Chester Zoo and they are now going to put into place a plan to reopen within the next three days so that they 're ready on Monday morning .
`` They 're going to have to regulate the number of visitors who are coming in to the zoo , regulate the flows of visitors around .
`` Some of the attractions and exhibits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've got a detailed plan in place and I 'm sure that they will be able to meet the standards required . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Edward Perry , managing director of Knowsley Safari , told Sky News : `` Reopening safaris and zoos on 15 June is very good news , but we feel it should have been sooner .
`` Knowsley Safari has been ready for the past week to safely open to the public and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been ok for people to jump in their cars to go and get Big Macs , but not to come and see our big cats .
`` After being shut for such a long period , every day really does count in terms of ticket sales and generating much needed revenue to care for over 700 animals . ''
The announcement on zoos follows confirmation by Business Secretary Alok Sharma that non-essential shops in England will be allowed to reopen from Monday if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurants and hairdressers will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest and Mr Sharma refused to reveal when the two-metre rule on social distancing might be relaxed , simply saying it was being kept under review .

Zoos and safari parks will be allowed to reopen next week, in the latest moves to relax coronavirus lockdown rules being announced by Boris Johnson.
Bowing to pressure from MPs, animal-lovers and conservationists - including his own father Stanley - the prime minister will declare that zoos can reopen from next Monday, 15 June.
Outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars, such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas, will also be allowed to reopen from Monday, given the low risk of coronavirus transmission.
Image: MPs were ready to warn animals might have to be put down if zoos couldn't reopen
In an expected announcement of the latest easing of lockdown rules at Wednesday's daily Downing Street news conference, Mr Johnson will stress that reopening will be subject to appropriate social distancing measures being in place.
And, on the advice of scientific and medical experts, indoor attractions at zoos such as reptile houses will have to remain closed and cafes will only be open for takeaway food and drinks.
"People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike," a Downing Street official said ahead of the prime minister's announcement.
"But we know it is tough and where we can safely open up more attractions, and it is supported by the science, we will do so.
"This is by necessity a careful process, but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors, while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals."
Mr Johnson's announcement comes ahead of a House of Commons debate on Thursday in which MPs had planned to warn that zoos would close permanently and animals would have to be put down unless the government allowed them to reopen.
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And pleading for their reopening in The Sun newspaper this week, Mr Johnson's father, who is president of the Gorilla Organisation, wrote: "A good zoo not only looks after the welfare of animals, it also makes a vital contribution to conservation."
Image: Boris Johnson is expected to make the announcement at Wednesday's Downing Street news conference
Chester Zoo - praised by Health Secretary Matt Hancock last week as "close to my heart, coming from Chester myself" - had warned that it was "at risk of extinction" and could end the year with debts of £24m.
Welcoming the prime minister's announcement, City of Chester MP Chris Matheson told Sky News: "It's a real relief obviously for everyone at Chester Zoo and they are now going to put into place a plan to reopen within the next three days so that they're ready on Monday morning.
"They're going to have to regulate the number of visitors who are coming in to the zoo, regulate the flows of visitors around.
"Some of the attractions and exhibits inside will be closed, but they've got a detailed plan in place and I'm sure that they will be able to meet the standards required."
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
Edward Perry, managing director of Knowsley Safari, told Sky News: "Reopening safaris and zoos on 15 June is very good news, but we feel it should have been sooner.
"Knowsley Safari has been ready for the past week to safely open to the public and we still can't understand why it's been ok for people to jump in their cars to go and get Big Macs, but not to come and see our big cats.
"After being shut for such a long period, every day really does count in terms of ticket sales and generating much needed revenue to care for over 700 animals."
The announcement on zoos follows confirmation by Business Secretary Alok Sharma that non-essential shops in England will be allowed to reopen from Monday if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures.
But pubs, restaurants and hairdressers will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest and Mr Sharma refused to reveal when the two-metre rule on social distancing might be relaxed, simply saying it was being kept under review.