news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: Wetherspoon targets June reopening as beer garden hopes shattered

The boss of JD Wetherspoon is targeting a reopening of his pubs in late June after bars were closed at the start of the coronavirus lockdown .
Tim Martin revealed his timeframe for a resumption in trading as the deputy chief medical officer for England shot down hopes that beer gardens could reopen any time soon .
Professor Jonathan Van-Tam told reporters at the daily Downing Street briefing that it was important social distancing measures were eased gradually so as not to risk a return of more COVID-19 cases and deaths .
Mr Martin , who attracted criticism last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work for Tesco if he had to shut down , argued his company was better placed than most to operate safely as he laid bare the effects of the lockdown on the business .
More than 99 % of staff have been furloughed and - despite Mr Martin earlier telling workers their pay may be delayed until the government 's furlough scheme kicked in - the company said they had received 80 % of their March salaries as the business and its 874 pubs were placed in `` hibernation '' .
Mr Martin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £60m through the business rates holiday , it had had to agree extended payment terms with a minority of suppliers and defer the majority of rents .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He revealed the company was to tap shareholders for up to £141m to boost its cash pile through the issue of new shares at 900p each .
He said it could also try to secure up to £50m more through a Bank of England loan scheme but admitted concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the terms of the Covid Corporate Financing Facility .
Mr Martin , JD Wetherspoon 's founder and chairman , had earlier said he was taking a voluntary pay cut of 50 % in line with the chief executive and other directors .
On re-opening hopes , the statement said : `` The company is likely to make some changes to its operating model , assuming increased social distancing , and anticipates a gradual recovery in customer numbers .
`` Wetherspoon pubs are substantially larger than average , and most have outside facilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are likely to assist if social distancing measures apply . ''
Correction : May 2 2020 - This story has been updated to more accurately reflect previous comments by Tim Martin .
We have removed our interpretation that Mr Martin `` angrily '' suggested employees seek jobs at Tesco and that his stated position amounted to a threat to withhold pay .

The boss of JD Wetherspoon is targeting a reopening of his pubs in late June after bars were closed at the start of the coronavirus lockdown.
Tim Martin revealed his timeframe for a resumption in trading as the deputy chief medical officer for England shot down hopes that beer gardens could reopen any time soon.
Professor Jonathan Van-Tam told reporters at the daily Downing Street briefing that it was important social distancing measures were eased gradually so as not to risk a return of more COVID-19 cases and deaths.
Image: Graffiti on a JD Wetherspoon pub after Tim Martin suggested his workers would not get paid until the business was compensated
Mr Martin, who attracted criticism last month for suggesting his 43,000 staff go to work for Tesco if he had to shut down, argued his company was better placed than most to operate safely as he laid bare the effects of the lockdown on the business.
More than 99% of staff have been furloughed and - despite Mr Martin earlier telling workers their pay may be delayed until the government's furlough scheme kicked in - the company said they had received 80% of their March salaries as the business and its 874 pubs were placed in "hibernation".
Mr Martin said that while the chain had saved £60m through the business rates holiday, it had had to agree extended payment terms with a minority of suppliers and defer the majority of rents.
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He revealed the company was to tap shareholders for up to £141m to boost its cash pile through the issue of new shares at 900p each.
He said it could also try to secure up to £50m more through a Bank of England loan scheme but admitted concerns over whether it would qualify for help under the terms of the Covid Corporate Financing Facility.
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Mr Martin, JD Wetherspoon's founder and chairman, had earlier said he was taking a voluntary pay cut of 50% in line with the chief executive and other directors.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:11 20 March: 'Pubs less crowded than supermarkets'
On re-opening hopes, the statement said: "The company is likely to make some changes to its operating model, assuming increased social distancing, and anticipates a gradual recovery in customer numbers.
"Wetherspoon pubs are substantially larger than average, and most have outside facilities.
"The company believes these factors are likely to assist if social distancing measures apply."
Correction: May 2 2020 - This story has been updated to more accurately reflect previous comments by Tim Martin. We have removed our interpretation that Mr Martin "angrily" suggested employees seek jobs at Tesco and that his stated position amounted to a threat to withhold pay.


news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: 'I'll never use you again' - Flyer fury over Ryanair's new refund policy

Ryanair has been criticised after customers complained they were being pressured into potentially waiting up to 12 months for a refund due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Would-be travellers hit out at the new policy , which saw those with cancelled flights emailed and encouraged to take a voucher for the original value of their trip instead .
Screenshots appear to show an email telling passengers that these vouchers would be valid for a year and they would only receive a refund if it expired unused .
The message read : `` Please note that this voucher is valid for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your future travel plans .
`` Please note that if you do not use the voucher the voucher [ sic ] before the expiry date you will receive a full cash refund .
`` In the event you use the voucher in part you will also receive the option of a voucher for the balance or a cash refund after the expiry date . ''
Customers reacted angrily about the long period they would have to wait to get their cash back , with one calling the policy `` outrageous '' and another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again '' .
The airline 's chief executive , Michael O'Leary , used an interview with Sky News last week to say that customers were being encouraged to take vouchers because it was an automated system .
He explained that refunds were taking longer than usual to process because staffing levels were severely restricted by the pandemic .
Consumer rights company Which ?
accused Ryanair of trying to pressure people into taking vouchers instead of refunds .
`` This latest shift in Ryanair 's refund policy shows blatant disregard for the many customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airline while they desperately try to get their money back , '' travel editor Rory Boland said .
`` Ryanair 's repeated attempts to push vouchers on customers who have been clear that they want the refund they are legally entitled to are completely unacceptable .
`` It is time for the Civil Aviation Authority to get tough with the many airlines openly flouting the law and those playing fast and loose with the rules .
`` The government must set out how it intends to support airlines so they can meet their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' : : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker A Ryanair spokesperson said : `` For any cancelled flight , Ryanair is giving customers all of the options set out under EU regulations , including free moves and refunds in the form of cash or vouchers .
`` The process time for cash refunds is taking longer due to the fact we are having to process 10,000 times the usual volume of cancellations and have fewer staff available due to social distancing measures .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ moves as these are automated and would give customers an alternative .
Customers who choose a voucher but do n't redeem it within 12 months may still apply for and obtain a refund after this 12 month period .
This also includes partial redemption , as the portion of the unused voucher will be refunded .
`` Customers who choose not to accept a free move or voucher will be refunded in due course , once this unprecedented crisis is over .
`` We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''

Ryanair has been criticised after customers complained they were being pressured into potentially waiting up to 12 months for a refund due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Would-be travellers hit out at the new policy, which saw those with cancelled flights emailed and encouraged to take a voucher for the original value of their trip instead.
Screenshots appear to show an email telling passengers that these vouchers would be valid for a year and they would only receive a refund if it expired unused.
Image: Ryanair offered people vouchers that expire in 12 months
The message read: "Please note that this voucher is valid for 12 months and can be used for your future travel plans.
"Please note that if you do not use the voucher the voucher [sic] before the expiry date you will receive a full cash refund.
"In the event you use the voucher in part you will also receive the option of a voucher for the balance or a cash refund after the expiry date."
Customers reacted angrily about the long period they would have to wait to get their cash back, with one calling the policy "outrageous" and another declaring "I will never use you again".
The airline's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, used an interview with Sky News last week to say that customers were being encouraged to take vouchers because it was an automated system.
He explained that refunds were taking longer than usual to process because staffing levels were severely restricted by the pandemic.
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Consumer rights company Which? accused Ryanair of trying to pressure people into taking vouchers instead of refunds.
"This latest shift in Ryanair's refund policy shows blatant disregard for the many customers who have been strung along by the airline while they desperately try to get their money back," travel editor Rory Boland said.
"Ryanair's repeated attempts to push vouchers on customers who have been clear that they want the refund they are legally entitled to are completely unacceptable.
"It is time for the Civil Aviation Authority to get tough with the many airlines openly flouting the law and those playing fast and loose with the rules.
"The government must set out how it intends to support airlines so they can meet their legal obligations and refund their passengers."
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A Ryanair spokesperson said: "For any cancelled flight, Ryanair is giving customers all of the options set out under EU regulations, including free moves and refunds in the form of cash or vouchers.
"The process time for cash refunds is taking longer due to the fact we are having to process 10,000 times the usual volume of cancellations and have fewer staff available due to social distancing measures.
"Ryanair is offering vouchers and free moves as these are automated and would give customers an alternative. Customers who choose a voucher but don't redeem it within 12 months may still apply for and obtain a refund after this 12 month period. This also includes partial redemption, as the portion of the unused voucher will be refunded.
"Customers who choose not to accept a free move or voucher will be refunded in due course, once this unprecedented crisis is over.
"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and we thank our customers for bearing with us."


news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: Mike Pence defies clinic's policy and refuses to wear a mask

US Vice President Mike Pence has been pictured touring a medical research facility without wearing a mask , in direct contravention of the clinic 's own policy and advice from the US government 's body for disease control .
Mr Pence was the only person not wearing a mask during the visit to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Minnesota , which is at the forefront of COVID-19 research in the US .
He was pictured meeting a Mayo employee who is in the process of recovering from coronavirus and was also maskless when he went to the lab where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On its website the clinic states : `` Part of our protocol for ensuring your safety is to require all patients , visitors and staff to wear a face covering or mask while at Mayo Clinic to guard against transmission of COVID-19 . ''
In a tweet that was subsequently removed , Mayo said it had informed the vice president of its mask policy before his arrival .
Earlier this month the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that Americans wear `` cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Vice president Pence defended his decision not to wear a mask by saying he was regularly tested for the virus .
`` As vice president of the United States I 'm tested for the coronavirus on a regular basis , and everyone who is around me is tested for the coronavirus , '' he said .
He went on : `` And since I do n't have the coronavirus , I thought it 'd be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to be able to speak to these researchers , these incredible healthcare personnel , and look them in the eye and say 'thank you ' . ''
In refusing to wear a mask Mr Pence is following the lead of his boss .
On 4 April President Donald Trump said he doubted he would wear one .
`` Wearing a face mask as I greet presidents , prime ministers , dictators , kings , queens - I just do n't see it , '' he said .

US Vice President Mike Pence has been pictured touring a medical research facility without wearing a mask, in direct contravention of the clinic's own policy and advice from the US government's body for disease control.
Mr Pence was the only person not wearing a mask during the visit to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, which is at the forefront of COVID-19 research in the US.
He was pictured meeting a Mayo employee who is in the process of recovering from coronavirus and was also maskless when he went to the lab where the institute conducts tests on the disease.
On its website the clinic states: "Part of our protocol for ensuring your safety is to require all patients, visitors and staff to wear a face covering or mask while at Mayo Clinic to guard against transmission of COVID-19."
Image: Mr Pence said he had been tested for coronavirus on a 'regular basis'
In a tweet that was subsequently removed, Mayo said it had informed the vice president of its mask policy before his arrival.
Earlier this month the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that Americans wear "cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain".
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Vice president Pence defended his decision not to wear a mask by saying he was regularly tested for the virus.
"As vice president of the United States I'm tested for the coronavirus on a regular basis, and everyone who is around me is tested for the coronavirus," he said.
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He went on: "And since I don't have the coronavirus, I thought it'd be a good opportunity for me to be here, to be able to speak to these researchers, these incredible healthcare personnel, and look them in the eye and say 'thank you'."
In refusing to wear a mask Mr Pence is following the lead of his boss.
On 4 April President Donald Trump said he doubted he would wear one.
"Wearing a face mask as I greet presidents, prime ministers, dictators, kings, queens - I just don't see it," he said.


news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: Swiss children under 10 allowed to hug grandparents as they 'do not transmit COVID-19'

Children under the age of 10 in Switzerland have been told they can now hug their grandparents as the country begins to ease coronavirus lockdown measures .
The country has revised its initial COVID-19 advice to stay apart after Daniel Koch , head of the Swiss infectious diseases unit , said scientists `` now know young children do n't transmit the virus '' .
He said many grandparents `` live to see their grandchildren , it 's important for their wellbeing '' .
However , he said this does not mean family gatherings are now allowed - and emphasised only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not older children or teenagers .
`` We are talking about brief contact with grandchildren , not get-togethers with the entire family , babysitting , or spending time with the kids outside the home '' , he said .
Switzerland is one of a handful of European countries starting to ease lockdowns , with garden centres and hairdressers now allowed to open their doors , while shops and schools will reopen in a fortnight .
Dr Koch said the initial advice against `` mixing of the generations '' was issued when Swiss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was transmitted .
The new advice came after consultation with experts at Universities in Zurich , Bern and Geneva , Swiss broadcaster SRF reported .
However , not all experts agreed with the government 's conclusion .
Dr Steve Rietiker , a Swiss physician and digital health expert , told Sky News : `` People are a little confused because so far everyone said you 're not supposed to approach your children , they have to be kept away from their grandparents .
`` And all of a sudden ( the infectious diseases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we do n't know what kind of studies they are basing their assumptions on , and I assume it is assumptions .
`` It 's good news for the kids and its good news for the grandparents , but we 're not sure yet if this is a valid assumption . ''
Germany 's chief virologist Christian Drosten said there was insufficient data to conclusively say young children could not transmit the virus .
He said several studies have come to different conclusions on whether children contracted the virus and how they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK , people are still being told to maintain social distancing with grandparents due to the elderly being more susceptible to the disease .
There have also been questions in the UK over whether children are becoming ill with a serious new syndrome possibly linked to COVID-19 .
Health secretary Matt Hancock said on Tuesday `` it is something that we 're worried about '' after GPs were warned about an increasing number of children arriving in hospitals with high fevers and swollen arteries .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker Northern Italy - one of the world 's hardest-hit areas during the pandemic - has reported high numbers of children under the age of nine with severe cases of what appears to be Kawasaki disease , which is more common in parts of Asia .
Kawasaki disease mainly affects children under five and symptoms include swollen lymph nodes , skin rashes , fever and in severe cases , inflammation of heart arteries .

Children under the age of 10 in Switzerland have been told they can now hug their grandparents as the country begins to ease coronavirus lockdown measures.
The country has revised its initial COVID-19 advice to stay apart after Daniel Koch, head of the Swiss infectious diseases unit, said scientists "now know young children don't transmit the virus".
He said many grandparents "live to see their grandchildren, it's important for their wellbeing".
However, he said this does not mean family gatherings are now allowed - and emphasised only children under 10 should be permitted contact, not older children or teenagers.
"We are talking about brief contact with grandchildren, not get-togethers with the entire family, babysitting, or spending time with the kids outside the home", he said.
Image: Daniel Koch, who is leading Switzerland's COVID-19 response, said scientists now know 'young children don't transmit the virus'
Switzerland is one of a handful of European countries starting to ease lockdowns, with garden centres and hairdressers now allowed to open their doors, while shops and schools will reopen in a fortnight.
Dr Koch said the initial advice against "mixing of the generations" was issued when Swiss scientists were still learning about how coronavirus was transmitted.
The new advice came after consultation with experts at Universities in Zurich, Bern and Geneva, Swiss broadcaster SRF reported.
However, not all experts agreed with the government's conclusion.
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Dr Steve Rietiker, a Swiss physician and digital health expert, told Sky News: "People are a little confused because so far everyone said you're not supposed to approach your children, they have to be kept away from their grandparents.
"And all of a sudden (the infectious diseases unit) is changing the rhetoric, and we don't know what kind of studies they are basing their assumptions on, and I assume it is assumptions.
"It's good news for the kids and its good news for the grandparents, but we're not sure yet if this is a valid assumption."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:15 The emerging rare illness in children
Germany's chief virologist Christian Drosten said there was insufficient data to conclusively say young children could not transmit the virus.
He said several studies have come to different conclusions on whether children contracted the virus and how they might pass it on.
In the UK, people are still being told to maintain social distancing with grandparents due to the elderly being more susceptible to the disease.
There have also been questions in the UK over whether children are becoming ill with a serious new syndrome possibly linked to COVID-19.
Health secretary Matt Hancock said on Tuesday "it is something that we're worried about" after GPs were warned about an increasing number of children arriving in hospitals with high fevers and swollen arteries.
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Northern Italy - one of the world's hardest-hit areas during the pandemic - has reported high numbers of children under the age of nine with severe cases of what appears to be Kawasaki disease, which is more common in parts of Asia.
Kawasaki disease mainly affects children under five and symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes, fever and in severe cases, inflammation of heart arteries.


news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: Reopening garden centres 'under review' as Dominic Raab faces lockdown pressure

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has warned of `` falling behind other countries '' if the government does not soon publish an exit strategy from the coronavirus lockdown .
Increasing the pressure on ministers to spell out how they might ease stringent social distancing measures introduced more than five weeks ago , Sir Keir said a continuing delay also risks splitting the four-nation approach of the UK as a whole to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab downplayed any immediate prospect of the government setting out `` concrete proposals '' this week , although he revealed the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` under very close review '' .
Highlighting how many other nations have published `` exit plans of one sort or another '' - including Wales and Scotland in the UK - Sir Keir told MPs during Wednesday 's Prime Minister 's Questions : `` Delay risks not only falling behind other countries , but also the successful four-nation approach so far . ''
He added that plans announced by countries such as France , Germany , Spain , Belgium , New Zealand and Australia had revealed `` common issues '' over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Sir Keir urged the government to be `` open '' with the British public about how the lockdown might be eased .
But he stressed he was not calling for the lockdown to be lifted now , or for ministers to set out a timeframe for easing social distancing measures .
`` I said I would n't ask the impossible and I wo n't , what I 'm asking for is for the government to be open with the British people about what comes next , '' Sir Keir said .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Boris Johnson following the birth of the prime minister 's son with fiancee Carrie Symonds on Wednesday morning - said it would be `` wrong '' for the government to set out `` concrete proposals '' on easing the lockdown until it had received the latest advice from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) .
He said this advice was due in the `` next week or so '' .
Mr Raab also noted how Germany is `` now having to think twice about easing up on the measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spike '' in COVID-19 infections .
He urged Sir Keir not to `` abandon '' his `` rigour '' in being guided by the evidence , while also dismissing the suggestion that the Scottish government had set out its own `` exit strategy '' .
Mr Raab said the document set out by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon last week was `` grounded '' in the government 's five tests for easing the lockdown .
A spokesperson for Sir Keir later revealed the Labour leader had a `` constructive conversation '' with Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks planned for next week .
As well as the calls from Labour , the government is also facing pressure from its own Conservative MPs to shed light on how the UK 's lockdown might be lifted .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Tory backbencher Sir Desmond Swayne asked Mr Raab if garden centres and nurseries would be allowed to reopen `` in short order '' .
The foreign secretary reiterated the current advice from SAGE is that `` relaxing any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he refers to - would risk damage to the public health , our economy , and frankly the progress we 've made , the sacrifices so many have made , the lives that have been lost '' .
But he added : `` They looked specifically at garden centres and we will continue , as I 've indicated earlier , to keep the evidence on each individual measure under very close review . ''
Fellow Conservative backbencher Mark Pritchard also urged the government to include garden centres in `` phase one '' of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` It 's certainly very firmly registered that this is an important area for us to look at for the future . ''

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has warned of "falling behind other countries" if the government does not soon publish an exit strategy from the coronavirus lockdown.
Increasing the pressure on ministers to spell out how they might ease stringent social distancing measures introduced more than five weeks ago, Sir Keir said a continuing delay also risks splitting the four-nation approach of the UK as a whole to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab downplayed any immediate prospect of the government setting out "concrete proposals" this week, although he revealed the government would keep the reopening of garden centres "under very close review".
Image: The closed gates of Squire's garden centre in Farnham, Surrey
Highlighting how many other nations have published "exit plans of one sort or another" - including Wales and Scotland in the UK - Sir Keir told MPs during Wednesday's Prime Minister's Questions: "Delay risks not only falling behind other countries, but also the successful four-nation approach so far."
He added that plans announced by countries such as France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, New Zealand and Australia had revealed "common issues" over the reopening of schools and some business sectors.
Sir Keir urged the government to be "open" with the British public about how the lockdown might be eased.
But he stressed he was not calling for the lockdown to be lifted now, or for ministers to set out a timeframe for easing social distancing measures.
"I said I wouldn't ask the impossible and I won't, what I'm asking for is for the government to be open with the British people about what comes next," Sir Keir said.
In response, Mr Raab - who deputised for Boris Johnson following the birth of the prime minister's son with fiancee Carrie Symonds on Wednesday morning - said it would be "wrong" for the government to set out "concrete proposals" on easing the lockdown until it had received the latest advice from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
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He said this advice was due in the "next week or so".
Mr Raab also noted how Germany is "now having to think twice about easing up on the measures because of the risk of a second spike" in COVID-19 infections.
He urged Sir Keir not to "abandon" his "rigour" in being guided by the evidence, while also dismissing the suggestion that the Scottish government had set out its own "exit strategy".
Mr Raab said the document set out by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon last week was "grounded" in the government's five tests for easing the lockdown.
A spokesperson for Sir Keir later revealed the Labour leader had a "constructive conversation" with Mr Johnson about the COVID-19 crisis, with further talks planned for next week.
As well as the calls from Labour, the government is also facing pressure from its own Conservative MPs to shed light on how the UK's lockdown might be lifted.
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Tory backbencher Sir Desmond Swayne asked Mr Raab if garden centres and nurseries would be allowed to reopen "in short order".
The foreign secretary reiterated the current advice from SAGE is that "relaxing any of those measures - including the ones he refers to - would risk damage to the public health, our economy, and frankly the progress we've made, the sacrifices so many have made, the lives that have been lost".
But he added: "They looked specifically at garden centres and we will continue, as I've indicated earlier, to keep the evidence on each individual measure under very close review."
Fellow Conservative backbencher Mark Pritchard also urged the government to include garden centres in "phase one" of easing the lockdown.
Mr Raab replied: "It's certainly very firmly registered that this is an important area for us to look at for the future."


news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: Insect repellent to be tested by MoD lab to see if it kills COVID-19

Britain 's defence laboratory will test whether a product found in insect repellent can also be used to kill the strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19 , Sky News has learned .
Citriodiol is known to be effective at destroying certain types of coronavirus , so the Ministry of Defence ( MoD ) is exploring its use against the strain behind the COVID-19 pandemic .
Scientists at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory ( DSTL ) at Porton Down have been asked to conduct studies to provide further evidence , a spokesperson said .
`` Further work is required to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distribution , '' the MoD spokesperson added .
Sky News revealed last week that some soldiers are already being issued with Mosi Guard , a type of insect repellent that contains citriodiol , as part of `` enhanced force health protection measures '' during the crisis .
Priority will be given to personnel who are involved in operational roles and troops who are supporting the government 's effort to tackle coronavirus , according to military sources .
Use is optional , not obligatory , and the spray would be in addition to social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment .
The Ministry of Defence said there has been no widespread rollout .
`` Citriodiol is known to have anti-viral properties and has been used as a barrier against the SARS 1 virus , '' the spokesperson said , referring to the strain that caused the 2003 epidemic .
`` Its utility for protecting against COVID-19 is therefore being explored by the Ministry of Defence as an additional protective measure for personnel working on the response . ''
The issuing of insect repellent has triggered curiosity among MPs .
Two opposition defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Select Committee have written separately to Defence Secretary Ben Wallace to request further details .
Stewart McDonald of the Scottish National Party has asked to see the evidence the MoD relied upon to start issuing the insect repellent .
According to a copy of his letter , he said : `` If this is based on science , it is vital that the evidence is made public and all frontline workers are given the same advice .
`` If there is no evidence that it will be effective , then the MoD must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , creating a false sense of security and putting lives at risk .
`` Clarity on this matter is of the greatest urgency . ''
Jamie Stone of the Liberal Democrats said that transparency was vital .
According to a copy of his letter , he wrote : `` The over-riding point is that if your decision has been taken on the basis of sound scientific evidence , then why are other frontline workers not also being provided with citriodiol ? ''
The MP has also submitted a formal question to the Ministry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be made public .
The department must reply by 4 May .
John Healey , Labour 's shadow defence secretary , is understood to have submitted a question to the MoD about the use of citriodiol as well .
In his letter , Tobias Ellwood , a senior Conservative MP and chair of the Defence Select Committee , asked the defence secretary to confirm troops had been issued with insect repellent and , if so , how many .
He also asked whether DSTL was involved in any testing of the product @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Are there plans to issue citriodiol to other essential workers , such as those in the NHS ? ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Citrefine International Ltd , the company that makes citriodiol , welcomed the news that defence scientists would be testing the product .
Citriodiol stays on the skin for several hours , meaning it could provide a longer period of protection than soap and water if proven to be an effective barrier , according to Jacqueline Watson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leeds-based firm .
She said the company had been calling for government support for a testing programme .
`` I can understand why people are sceptical , '' Ms Watson told Sky News in an interview .
`` They are right we do n't have data against this particular virus .
`` However there is data against other coronaviruses .
And , I am certainly not an expert in this area , but having talked to experts , there is good reason to think it may well work against this .
But that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get it tested really thoroughly at a specialist laboratory . ''
She described how citriodiol had been proven to breakdown the envelope around other coronaviruses , killing the disease .
The product would not guard against inhalation but could kill the virus on a person 's skin before it could be transferred anywhere else .
If its utility against the pandemic is proven , Ms Watson said her company would like to work with the government on how best it could be deployed .
`` It is not necessarily going to utilised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for example - but it could well be used on the front line or as people start to be able to go out and about , '' she said .
Citriodiol is made from oil from the leaves and twigs of the eucalyptus citriodora tree , which is found in Asia , South America and Africa .
It is used in the insect repellent Mosi Guard and others .
It is understood that only insect repellent containing citriodiol and not containing deet is regarded as having the potential of any kind of utility @ @ @ @ @

Britain's defence laboratory will test whether a product found in insect repellent can also be used to kill the strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19, Sky News has learned.
Citriodiol is known to be effective at destroying certain types of coronavirus, so the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is exploring its use against the strain behind the COVID-19 pandemic.
Scientists at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) at Porton Down have been asked to conduct studies to provide further evidence, a spokesperson said.
Image: Citriodiol is used in the insect repellent Mosi Guard and others
"Further work is required to determine its full effectiveness, acquisition and distribution," the MoD spokesperson added.
Sky News revealed last week that some soldiers are already being issued with Mosi Guard, a type of insect repellent that contains citriodiol, as part of "enhanced force health protection measures" during the crisis.
Priority will be given to personnel who are involved in operational roles and troops who are supporting the government's effort to tackle coronavirus, according to military sources.
Use is optional, not obligatory, and the spray would be in addition to social distancing, handwashing and wearing personal protective equipment.
The Ministry of Defence said there has been no widespread rollout.
"Citriodiol is known to have anti-viral properties and has been used as a barrier against the SARS 1 virus," the spokesperson said, referring to the strain that caused the 2003 epidemic.
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"Its utility for protecting against COVID-19 is therefore being explored by the Ministry of Defence as an additional protective measure for personnel working on the response."
Image: Porton Down, near Salisbury, will look into the 'full effectiveness' of citriodiol
The issuing of insect repellent has triggered curiosity among MPs.
Two opposition defence spokespeople and the chair of the Defence Select Committee have written separately to Defence Secretary Ben Wallace to request further details.
Stewart McDonald of the Scottish National Party has asked to see the evidence the MoD relied upon to start issuing the insect repellent.
According to a copy of his letter, he said: "If this is based on science, it is vital that the evidence is made public and all frontline workers are given the same advice.
"If there is no evidence that it will be effective, then the MoD must explain why this product is being issued, creating a false sense of security and putting lives at risk.
"Clarity on this matter is of the greatest urgency."
Jamie Stone of the Liberal Democrats said that transparency was vital.
According to a copy of his letter, he wrote: "The over-riding point is that if your decision has been taken on the basis of sound scientific evidence, then why are other frontline workers not also being provided with citriodiol?"
The MP has also submitted a formal question to the Ministry of Defence, asking for the evidence to be made public. The department must reply by 4 May.
John Healey, Labour's shadow defence secretary, is understood to have submitted a question to the MoD about the use of citriodiol as well.
In his letter, Tobias Ellwood, a senior Conservative MP and chair of the Defence Select Committee, asked the defence secretary to confirm troops had been issued with insect repellent and, if so, how many.
He also asked whether DSTL was involved in any testing of the product.
The former defence minister added: "Are there plans to issue citriodiol to other essential workers, such as those in the NHS?"
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Citrefine International Ltd, the company that makes citriodiol, welcomed the news that defence scientists would be testing the product.
Citriodiol stays on the skin for several hours, meaning it could provide a longer period of protection than soap and water if proven to be an effective barrier, according to Jacqueline Watson, managing director of the small, Leeds-based firm.
She said the company had been calling for government support for a testing programme.
"I can understand why people are sceptical," Ms Watson told Sky News in an interview.
"They are right we don't have data against this particular virus.
"However there is data against other coronaviruses. And, I am certainly not an expert in this area, but having talked to experts, there is good reason to think it may well work against this. But that is why it is just so important to get it tested really thoroughly at a specialist laboratory."
She described how citriodiol had been proven to breakdown the envelope around other coronaviruses, killing the disease.
The product would not guard against inhalation but could kill the virus on a person's skin before it could be transferred anywhere else.
If its utility against the pandemic is proven, Ms Watson said her company would like to work with the government on how best it could be deployed.
"It is not necessarily going to utilised across the country - in homes, for example - but it could well be used on the front line or as people start to be able to go out and about," she said.
Citriodiol is made from oil from the leaves and twigs of the eucalyptus citriodora tree, which is found in Asia, South America and Africa.
It is used in the insect repellent Mosi Guard and others.
It is understood that only insect repellent containing citriodiol and not containing deet is regarded as having the potential of any kind of utility against the novel coronavirus.


news--2020-04-30--Coronavirus masks: Boris Johnson signals U-turn over 'useful' face coverings

Boris Johnson has said face coverings will be `` useful '' when lockdown restrictions are eased to `` give people confidence they can go back to work '' .
It comes two days after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said there was only `` weak science '' supporting advice from the Scottish government that people should wear face coverings in shops and on public transport .
`` I do think face coverings will be useful , '' the prime minister said during the government 's daily briefing on the COVID-19 crisis .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify , Spreaker '' What I think Sage [ the government 's scientific advisory group ] is saying , what I certainly agree with , is that as part of coming out of the lockdown , I do think face coverings will be useful .
`` Both for epidemiological reasons but , also , for giving people confidence that they can go back to work .
`` You 're going to be hearing more about that and that kind of thing next week . ''
Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when social distancing was hard to maintain .
But asked later that day whether the recommendation was likely to be adopted across the UK , Mr Hancock said the government 's position had not changed and that there was `` weak science '' supporting the advice .
And the PM 's latest statement also appeared to contradict Professor Angela McLean 's comments at Tuesday 's daily coronavirus briefing .
She had said Sage found there was `` weak evidence of a small effect in which a face mask can prevent a source of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the people around them '' .
`` The answer is clear that the evidence is weak and the effect is small , and we have passed that on to our colleagues in government with which to make a decision , '' she said .
The apparent divisions around face coverings within Sage would appear to reflect those among scientists generally .
While some praised Scotland 's decision to advise people wear them while shopping and on public transport , describing it as a `` no-brainer '' , others suggested the decision was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And Sky News ' poltical editor Beth Rigby said both the government 's change of position and the PM 's use of the word `` confidence '' was significant .
`` It 's a big change in position from the prime minister to what other ministers have said , '' he said .
`` Indeed , Matt Hancock said , only earlier this week , there was weak evidence for the usefulness of face masks .
The prime minister completely changed position on that when asked .
`` Confidence is actually a really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talking a lot about ending the lockdown , but when you look at the public mood , people are very happy with the lockdown , they 're comfortable with it , they understand it , now they feel safe .
`` The government have to give people confidence to go outside again , to begin to resume a new normal way of life and maybe face masks is part of that strategy . ''

Boris Johnson has said face coverings will be "useful" when lockdown restrictions are eased to "give people confidence they can go back to work".
It comes two days after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said there was only "weak science" supporting advice from the Scottish government that people should wear face coverings in shops and on public transport.
"I do think face coverings will be useful," the prime minister said during the government's daily briefing on the COVID-19 crisis.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"What I think Sage [the government's scientific advisory group] is saying, what I certainly agree with, is that as part of coming out of the lockdown, I do think face coverings will be useful.
"Both for epidemiological reasons but, also, for giving people confidence that they can go back to work.
"You're going to be hearing more about that and that kind of thing next week."
Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced on Tuesday that cloth coverings should be used when social distancing was hard to maintain.
But asked later that day whether the recommendation was likely to be adopted across the UK, Mr Hancock said the government's position had not changed and that there was "weak science" supporting the advice.
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And the PM's latest statement also appeared to contradict Professor Angela McLean's comments at Tuesday's daily coronavirus briefing.
She had said Sage found there was "weak evidence of a small effect in which a face mask can prevent a source of infection going from somebody who is infected to the people around them".
"The answer is clear that the evidence is weak and the effect is small, and we have passed that on to our colleagues in government with which to make a decision," she said.
The apparent divisions around face coverings within Sage would appear to reflect those among scientists generally.
While some praised Scotland's decision to advise people wear them while shopping and on public transport, describing it as a "no-brainer", others suggested the decision was political and not supported by evidence.
And Sky News' poltical editor Beth Rigby said both the government's change of position and the PM's use of the word "confidence" was significant.
"It's a big change in position from the prime minister to what other ministers have said," he said.
"Indeed, Matt Hancock said, only earlier this week, there was weak evidence for the usefulness of face masks. The prime minister completely changed position on that when asked.
"Confidence is actually a really critical thing here. We've been talking a lot about ending the lockdown, but when you look at the public mood, people are very happy with the lockdown, they're comfortable with it, they understand it, now they feel safe.
"The government have to give people confidence to go outside again, to begin to resume a new normal way of life and maybe face masks is part of that strategy."


news--2020-04-30--Coronavirus: Lockdown hits iPhone sales but services revenue surges

Apple has reported a hit to key iPhone sales as coronavirus lockdowns , beginning in China , forced stores to close .
The second quarter of the tech firm 's financial year , January to March , saw overall revenue rise by just 1 % to $ 58.3bn - knocked by a fall of almost 7 % in smartphone sales to $ 28.9bn compared to the same period last year .
The company pointed to a sharp decline in premium phone sales in China - its key growth market - from the end of January through February but said sales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direction as COVID-19 social distancing measures had been relaxed and stores re-opened .
Apple said its revenue performance was protected by a surge in demand for services such as its Apple TV streaming operation as other markets , in Europe and North America , entered their own lockdowns later in the period .
It had warned in February that revenue was likely to fall short of its initial forecast range of up to $ 67bn because of the closure of factories where its products are made in China and sales moving online only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple signalled its supply chain was now back to normal after the disruption but because of continued uncertainty over sales elsewhere globally , it would not currently be releasing any new guidance on its financial future .
The company 's figures showed that Mac and iPad sales were also down on the same period last year .
Services , which also include iCloud storage and music streaming , hit $ 13.4bn for the quarter - a record .
It pointed to 515 million subscribers for apps and services - a rise of 125 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investors seemed less than convinced by the update , given the lack of guidance , with shares dipping by almost 2 % in extended trading in contrast to relief rallies for Google and Facebook stock after they reported earlier in the week .
Apple CEO Tim Cook told shareholders : `` Despite COVID-19 's unprecedented global impact , we 're proud to report that Apple grew for the quarter , driven by an all-time record in services and a quarterly record for wearables .
`` In this difficult environment , our users are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stay connected , informed , creative , and productive . ''

Apple has reported a hit to key iPhone sales as coronavirus lockdowns, beginning in China, forced stores to close.
The second quarter of the tech firm's financial year, January to March, saw overall revenue rise by just 1% to $58.3bn - knocked by a fall of almost 7% in smartphone sales to $28.9bn compared to the same period last year.
The company pointed to a sharp decline in premium phone sales in China - its key growth market - from the end of January through February but said sales there were now heading in the right direction as COVID-19 social distancing measures had been relaxed and stores re-opened.
Image: Apple Store outlets were able to re-open in mid-March in China but are closed across much of Asia
Apple said its revenue performance was protected by a surge in demand for services such as its Apple TV streaming operation as other markets, in Europe and North America, entered their own lockdowns later in the period.
It had warned in February that revenue was likely to fall short of its initial forecast range of up to $67bn because of the closure of factories where its products are made in China and sales moving online only as stores were forced to shut.
Apple signalled its supply chain was now back to normal after the disruption but because of continued uncertainty over sales elsewhere globally, it would not currently be releasing any new guidance on its financial future.
The company's figures showed that Mac and iPad sales were also down on the same period last year.
Image: Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, said the company was helping customers stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic
Services, which also include iCloud storage and music streaming, hit $13.4bn for the quarter - a record.
It pointed to 515 million subscribers for apps and services - a rise of 125 million on a year earlier.
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But investors seemed less than convinced by the update, given the lack of guidance, with shares dipping by almost 2% in extended trading in contrast to relief rallies for Google and Facebook stock after they reported earlier in the week.
Apple CEO Tim Cook told shareholders: "Despite COVID-19's unprecedented global impact, we're proud to report that Apple grew for the quarter, driven by an all-time record in services and a quarterly record for wearables.
"In this difficult environment, our users are depending on Apple products in renewed ways to stay connected, informed, creative, and productive."


news--2020-04-30--Coronavirus: B&Q reopens all 288 stores amid lockdown

DIY retailer B & Q has fully reopened all 288 of its retail stores - despite the UK still being in lockdown .
The company has gradually opened the doors of its sites across the country , with its final two outlets reopening on Thursday after stores closed due to the COVID-19 lockdown introduced in March .
Customers have visited the stores in their droves , leading to long queues outside , due to the coronavirus social distancing measures put in place .
DIY stores have been listed as `` essential '' by the government , meaning they are allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but some people have been concerned over the impact of opening the stores - such as increased traffic .
Rival shops Wickes and Homebase have also begun to reopen their stores over the past few days , as retailers look to start recouping their losses .
B & Q said it is `` strictly limiting the number of customers in store at any one time '' , as well as introducing new safety measures , such as trolley sanitising stations .
Floors display markers signifying two metre gaps , while the now contactless-only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to protect staff .
Graham Bell , chief executive officer of B & Q , said : `` Our highest priority is to keep our colleagues safe at work and our customers safe while shopping .
`` In all our stores , we have strict social distancing measures in place .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Customers are adhering to these , helping us to offer a shopping environment that is safe for everyone , while we help them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as their wellbeing .
`` Whether shopping in our stores or online , we continue to ask all our customers to follow the government 's social distancing guidelines and to shop responsibly only when they need to . ''

DIY retailer B&Q has fully reopened all 288 of its retail stores - despite the UK still being in lockdown.
The company has gradually opened the doors of its sites across the country, with its final two outlets reopening on Thursday after stores closed due to the COVID-19 lockdown introduced in March.
Customers have visited the stores in their droves, leading to long queues outside, due to the coronavirus social distancing measures put in place.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:18 B&... queue? Long lines as hardware chain reopens
DIY stores have been listed as "essential" by the government, meaning they are allowed to remain open during the lockdown, but some people have been concerned over the impact of opening the stores - such as increased traffic.
Rival shops Wickes and Homebase have also begun to reopen their stores over the past few days, as retailers look to start recouping their losses.
B&Q said it is "strictly limiting the number of customers in store at any one time", as well as introducing new safety measures, such as trolley sanitising stations.
Floors display markers signifying two metre gaps, while the now contactless-only checkouts have been fitted with Perspex screens to protect staff.
Graham Bell, chief executive officer of B&Q, said: "Our highest priority is to keep our colleagues safe at work and our customers safe while shopping.
"In all our stores, we have strict social distancing measures in place.
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"Customers are adhering to these, helping us to offer a shopping environment that is safe for everyone, while we help them to look after their homes and gardens, as well as their wellbeing.
"Whether shopping in our stores or online, we continue to ask all our customers to follow the government's social distancing guidelines and to shop responsibly only when they need to."


news--2020-04-28--Coronavirus: How Neighbours is social distancing - 'No kissing, just lots of long, loving looks'

Soaps are providing a bit of escapism during coronavirus lockdown .
Sky News speaks to Neighbours executive producer Jason Herbison and star Alan Fletcher , better known as Dr Karl Kennedy , about how they 're keeping filming going .
With UK soaps spreading episodes out while filming is halted during COVID-19 lockdown , who knows when the stars of Corrie will be returning to the cobbles , or EastEnders favourites enjoying a pint ( or having a fight ) at the Queen Vic ?
Filming on Australia 's most famous fictional cul-de-sac , however , is resuming , albeit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spread of the coronavirus .
Neighbours stars are back in Ramsay Street , with business almost as usual thanks to a huge production facility in Nunawading , in Melbourne , Victoria , that allows cast plenty of room to stick to the two-metre rule .
The soap seems to be leading the way , with various productions from around the world getting in touch for details on how it is operating , executive producer Jason Herbison told Sky News .
`` I hope we 've been able to provide some proactive advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ production facility is one of the largest in the world and that puts us in a very fortunate position .
We have three large interior studios and two smaller ones as well as a gigantic backlot , where we have created the world of Erinsborough .
`` We are taking advantage of every inch of the site and spreading everyone out , creating separate areas which limit the movements of each individual . ''
Erinsborough 's social distancing and safety measures include temperature checks , new hygiene protocols and special officers running the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to .
Cast and crew are being divided into different groups with limited crossover , said Herbison , and in some cases actors will be scheduled separately but edited together `` to give the illusion of larger groups '' .
Plus , it 's essential cast and crew only - so no visitors allowed for their famous Neighbours tours .
`` We 're guided by our local government in terms of how long we keep these measures in place , '' said Herbison .
`` Different areas have been impacted .
Our writing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of work so our stories can be shot so they 're complying with social distancing but without looking different .
`` That 's testament to our exceptionally talented team of producers , directors , camera operators to ensure we 're able to frame our scenes so there 's minimum impact on screen and of course our cast , to work with the new material - we 're all passionate and so invested in Neighbours , nothing will stop us ! ''
One rule of social distancing filming is `` no scenes that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which you 'd think might present a problem for a soap , for which the ( usually messy ) love-lives of all the characters are one of the biggest draws .
`` That 's the magic of post-production and also how we frame our scenes when they are shot , '' said Herbison .
`` For the moment there will be a lot of long , loving looks . ''
Neighbours filming usually continues through `` rain , hail and snow '' , he said .
Ramsay Street veteran Alan Fletcher , better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky News he could only remember halting on one occasion during his 26 years playing the much-loved character .
`` I can not recall ever stopping filming for anything other than Anne Haddy 's ( who played Helen Daniels ) memorial .
`` She was the undisputed Queen of Neighbours and every member of cast , crew and production stopped to honour her . ''
With coronavirus impacting the whole world like nothing else for decades , will the pandemic be written into storylines ?
Perhaps with Dr Kennedy treating some patients ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a difficult thing to decide , as episodes can be screened up to 20 weeks after filming .
Plus , there 's the question of whether viewers will want to relive it on screen .
`` [ It 's ] very difficult to write coronavirus stories for Neighbours that could be way out of date when screened , '' said Fletcher .
`` Wiser heads than mine will decide on this .
`` We 've debated about whether to incorporate the coronavirus into the narrative , '' said Herbison .
`` However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't air until much later in the year , so anything we write now might feel very outdated .
`` Further to this , there 's a creative question : will our viewers want to switch on Neighbours and relive it again ?
Or is our job to provide escapism ?
`` I tend to feel it 's the latter , however you might see some lingering hints of it on screen ; as if the virus might have somehow passed by our fictional world and our characters have adopted some of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hygiene . ''
Dr Kennedy will `` definitely not '' be treating patients , said Herbison , but it 's `` certainly something we would acknowledge in dialogue '' .
The residents of Ramsay Street would pull through a pandemic `` as they have with other disasters '' , he says .
`` Tornadoes , fires , bomb explosions - they 've come through them all . ''
Both said they were pleased to be helping provide a bit of escapism for fans during difficult times .
`` Audiences all around the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and rely on them for their wind down at the end of a stressful day , '' said Fletcher .
`` I am so pleased that we are continuing to supply drama for our loyal fans all around the world .
`` There is so much coverage around the virus , I think audiences are craving for escapism and this has certainly been reflected in [ an ] increase in viewing figures , '' said Herbison .
Fletcher said he has been bingeing in lockdown , watching all five series of Peaky Blinders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great Aussie shows like Stateless and Mystery Road… and Tiger King ( of course ) .
`` And I am watching tons of YouTube clips on making music and photography . ''
As a Liverpool FC fan , the actor was due to be in the UK for the club 's match against Crystal Palace on 21 March , which had to be called off as lockdown here began .
He said 2020 has been equally `` the most exciting and deflating year in LFC history that I can remember '' .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see LFC v Crystal Palace .
This was very likely to be the game that sealed the league , could have been one of the biggest memories of my life .
Sadly not to be .
`` Hopefully the season will be completed in late June and LFC will receive their thoroughly deserved crown . ''
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Keeping himself busy , Fletcher has been recording videos for fans in return for donations to raise money to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be anything from Happy Birthday to a pep talk .
`` I have been connecting with fans for the last six years , sending free videos for birthdays and weddings , '' he says .
`` In that time , I have sent over 7,000 videos .
`` When coronavirus hit I saw the entertainment industry take an incredible hit .
Every theatre show and every TV and film production , every music gig , had to stop with almost no government support for artists .
`` So I have added in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raise money to support artists in the time of COVID-19 .
`` So far we have together raised $ 4,000 ( £2,098 ) in three weeks .
And , judging by the feedback , people are loving my messages of hope in these difficult times . ''
It 's time to pitch our charity song idea : the Neighbours cast , get Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan back , record a cover of Especially For You .
Surely that would raise a fair amount of cash .
What does Fletcher think ?
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - get around it ! ''
Kylie , Jason - if you 're reading this , get in touch .
Watch Neighbours on Channel 5 on weekdays in the UK

Soaps are providing a bit of escapism during coronavirus lockdown.
Sky News speaks to Neighbours executive producer Jason Herbison and star Alan Fletcher, better known as Dr Karl Kennedy, about how they're keeping filming going.
With UK soaps spreading episodes out while filming is halted during COVID-19 lockdown, who knows when the stars of Corrie will be returning to the cobbles, or EastEnders favourites enjoying a pint (or having a fight) at the Queen Vic?
Filming on Australia's most famous fictional cul-de-sac, however, is resuming, albeit with strict social distancing conditions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Image: Neighbours cast and crew are practising social distancing on set
Neighbours stars are back in Ramsay Street, with business almost as usual thanks to a huge production facility in Nunawading, in Melbourne, Victoria, that allows cast plenty of room to stick to the two-metre rule.
The soap seems to be leading the way, with various productions from around the world getting in touch for details on how it is operating, executive producer Jason Herbison told Sky News.
"I hope we've been able to provide some proactive advice," he said.
"Our production facility is one of the largest in the world and that puts us in a very fortunate position. We have three large interior studios and two smaller ones as well as a gigantic backlot, where we have created the world of Erinsborough.
"We are taking advantage of every inch of the site and spreading everyone out, creating separate areas which limit the movements of each individual."
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Erinsborough's social distancing and safety measures include temperature checks, new hygiene protocols and special officers running the sets to make sure rules are adhered to.
Image: Executive producer Jason Herbison says the show films through "rain, hail and snow"
Cast and crew are being divided into different groups with limited crossover, said Herbison, and in some cases actors will be scheduled separately but edited together "to give the illusion of larger groups".
Plus, it's essential cast and crew only - so no visitors allowed for their famous Neighbours tours.
"We're guided by our local government in terms of how long we keep these measures in place," said Herbison.
"Different areas have been impacted. Our writing department have had to do a massive amount of work so our stories can be shot so they're complying with social distancing but without looking different.
"That's testament to our exceptionally talented team of producers, directors, camera operators to ensure we're able to frame our scenes so there's minimum impact on screen and of course our cast, to work with the new material - we're all passionate and so invested in Neighbours, nothing will stop us!"
Image: There'll be no snogging for Dr Karl and Susan for a while
One rule of social distancing filming is "no scenes that require intimacy or physical contact" - which you'd think might present a problem for a soap, for which the (usually messy) love-lives of all the characters are one of the biggest draws.
"That's the magic of post-production and also how we frame our scenes when they are shot," said Herbison. "For the moment there will be a lot of long, loving looks."
Neighbours filming usually continues through "rain, hail and snow", he said.
Ramsay Street veteran Alan Fletcher, better known as Dr Karl Kennedy, told Sky News he could only remember halting on one occasion during his 26 years playing the much-loved character.
"I cannot recall ever stopping filming for anything other than Anne Haddy's (who played Helen Daniels) memorial.
"She was the undisputed Queen of Neighbours and every member of cast, crew and production stopped to honour her."
With coronavirus impacting the whole world like nothing else for decades, will the pandemic be written into storylines? Perhaps with Dr Kennedy treating some patients?
Image: Old favourites like Stefan Dennis, aka Paul Robinson, and Ryan Maloney - Jarrod "Toadfish" Rebecchi, below - are still in the show
Both Herbison and Fletcher say this is a difficult thing to decide, as episodes can be screened up to 20 weeks after filming.
Plus, there's the question of whether viewers will want to relive it on screen.
"[It's] very difficult to write coronavirus stories for Neighbours that could be way out of date when screened," said Fletcher. "Wiser heads than mine will decide on this.
"We've debated about whether to incorporate the coronavirus into the narrative," said Herbison. "However, we are currently plotting episodes that won't air until much later in the year, so anything we write now might feel very outdated.
"Further to this, there's a creative question: will our viewers want to switch on Neighbours and relive it again? Or is our job to provide escapism?
"I tend to feel it's the latter, however you might see some lingering hints of it on screen; as if the virus might have somehow passed by our fictional world and our characters have adopted some of the habits and precautions, such as around hygiene."
Dr Kennedy will "definitely not" be treating patients, said Herbison, but it's "certainly something we would acknowledge in dialogue".
The residents of Ramsay Street would pull through a pandemic "as they have with other disasters", he says. "Tornadoes, fires, bomb explosions - they've come through them all."
Both said they were pleased to be helping provide a bit of escapism for fans during difficult times.
"Audiences all around the world and especially in the UK love soaps and rely on them for their wind down at the end of a stressful day," said Fletcher. "I am so pleased that we are continuing to supply drama for our loyal fans all around the world.
"There is so much coverage around the virus, I think audiences are craving for escapism and this has certainly been reflected in [an] increase in viewing figures," said Herbison.
Fletcher said he has been bingeing in lockdown, watching all five series of Peaky Blinders, season three of Ozark and "great Aussie shows like Stateless and Mystery Road… and Tiger King (of course).
"And I am watching tons of YouTube clips on making music and photography."
As a Liverpool FC fan, the actor was due to be in the UK for the club's match against Crystal Palace on 21 March, which had to be called off as lockdown here began.
He said 2020 has been equally "the most exciting and deflating year in LFC history that I can remember".
"I was slated to be at Anfield to see LFC v Crystal Palace. This was very likely to be the game that sealed the league, could have been one of the biggest memories of my life. Sadly not to be.
"Hopefully the season will be completed in late June and LFC will receive their thoroughly deserved crown."
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Keeping himself busy, Fletcher has been recording videos for fans in return for donations to raise money to support artists during the pandemic.
Messages can be anything from Happy Birthday to a pep talk.
"I have been connecting with fans for the last six years, sending free videos for birthdays and weddings," he says. "In that time, I have sent over 7,000 videos.
"When coronavirus hit I saw the entertainment industry take an incredible hit. Every theatre show and every TV and film production, every music gig, had to stop with almost no government support for artists.
"So I have added in these Cameo video shout-outs for fans to raise money to support artists in the time of COVID-19.
"So far we have together raised $4,000 (£2,098) in three weeks. And, judging by the feedback, people are loving my messages of hope in these difficult times."
Image: Especially for us: Now is the time for Scott and Charlene's return. Pic: Fremantle Media/Shutterstock
It's time to pitch our charity song idea: the Neighbours cast, get Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan back, record a cover of Especially For You. Surely that would raise a fair amount of cash.
What does Fletcher think?
"Awesome idea! C'mon Jason and Kylie - get around it!"
Kylie, Jason - if you're reading this, get in touch.
Watch Neighbours on Channel 5 on weekdays in the UK


news--2020-04-30--Rishi Kapoor: Bollywood icon dies from leukaemia aged 67

Bollywood is mourning its second loss in as many days after the death of leading Indian actor Rishi Kapoor at the age of 67 .
Kapoor , part of one of Bollywood 's most famous families , was admitted to hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday and died on Thursday .
He had returned to India last September after undergoing treatment for leukaemia in the US for almost a year , and was admitted to hospital twice in February .
Kapoor 's father Raj and grandfather Prithviraj were doyens of Bollywood , the vast Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ his debut role as a child artist in his father 's 1970 film Mera Naam Joker .
He went on to act in more than 90 films .
His wife , Neetu Singh , co-starred in several of his films , and his son Ranbir is also a top Bollywood actor .
Kapoor 's family urged his fans , who under normal circumstances would have poured on to the streets in mourning , to follow coronavirus social distancing rules .
In a statement , they said : `` There are numerous restrictions around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would like to request all his fans and well-wishers and friends of the family to please respect the laws that are in force . ''
Actress Priyanka Chopra said Kapoor 's death was the end of an era , adding : `` # Rishisir your candid heart and immeasurable talent will never be encountered again . ''
India 's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Kapoor was a powerhouse of talent , and said : `` I will always recall our interactions , even on social media .
He was passionate about films and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular hits included Laila Majnu , a story of legendary Indian lovers , Debt , Moonlight , Sometimes , Sea and Lightning .
In 1999 , he directed Let 's Go Back .
He switched to supporting roles in the 2000s and popular movies included Namastey London and Love Aj Kal , or Love Today And Tomorrow .
He acted until recently and his last movie , The Body , was released in 2019 .
Kapoor is survived by his wife , son and daughter .
His death comes a day after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irrfan Khan .
The 53-year-old , who had roles in films such as Life Of Pi and Jurassic World , had also been diagnosed with cancer .

Bollywood is mourning its second loss in as many days after the death of leading Indian actor Rishi Kapoor at the age of 67.
Kapoor, part of one of Bollywood's most famous families, was admitted to hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday and died on Thursday.
He had returned to India last September after undergoing treatment for leukaemia in the US for almost a year, and was admitted to hospital twice in February.
Image: Kapoor (L) and Amitabh Bachchan promoting a film in 2018
Bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan tweeted: "Rishi Kapoor gone….Just passed away… I am destroyed."
Kapoor's father Raj and grandfather Prithviraj were doyens of Bollywood, the vast Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai.
He received the National Film Award for his debut role as a child artist in his father's 1970 film Mera Naam Joker. He went on to act in more than 90 films.
His wife, Neetu Singh, co-starred in several of his films, and his son Ranbir is also a top Bollywood actor.
Kapoor's family urged his fans, who under normal circumstances would have poured on to the streets in mourning, to follow coronavirus social distancing rules.
Image: Kapoor with his wife Neetu Singh
In a statement, they said: "There are numerous restrictions around movement and gathering in public. We would like to request all his fans and well-wishers and friends of the family to please respect the laws that are in force."
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Actress Priyanka Chopra said Kapoor's death was the end of an era, adding: "#Rishisir your candid heart and immeasurable talent will never be encountered again."
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Kapoor was a powerhouse of talent, and said: "I will always recall our interactions, even on social media. He was passionate about films and India's progress."
Image: Kapoor performs with his son Ranbir at an awards ceremony in 2012
Kapoor's popular hits included Laila Majnu, a story of legendary Indian lovers, Debt, Moonlight, Sometimes, Sea and Lightning. In 1999, he directed Let's Go Back.
He switched to supporting roles in the 2000s and popular movies included Namastey London and Love Aj Kal, or Love Today And Tomorrow. He acted until recently and his last movie, The Body, was released in 2019.
Kapoor is survived by his wife, son and daughter.
Image: Irrfan Khan in Jurassic World. Pic: Universal Pictures
His death comes a day after the passing of another renowned Indian actor, Irrfan Khan.
The 53-year-old, who had roles in films such as Life Of Pi and Jurassic World, had also been diagnosed with cancer.


news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: When pubs, restaurants and shops reopen, it may not be plain sailing

COVID-19 has brought parts of the economy to a standstill .
At a stroke , lockdown measures emptied the streets , closed shops , offices , pubs and restaurants , and consigned millions of people to the novelty of working from home , or the uncertainty of a furloughed salary .
Now , with the first indications that restrictions may be eased , businesses are wondering how they can reopen safely and , for all the government support on offer , whether they can survive - or if it is even worth trying .
Safely lifting the lockdown poses a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart is the new reality of social distancing - the requirement to keep a 2m ( 6.5ft ) gap between staff , customers and colleagues to avoid the risk of coronavirus spreading .
It is the metric that may soon define the pace and success of Britain 's economic recovery , and the culture and practice of workspaces for months and perhaps years to come .
Firms will have to cut attendance accordingly , retaining a work-from-home culture or thinning staff , and public transport will have to adjust accordingly .
Sky News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preparing for such measures to be in place until the summer of 2021 .
The more immediate and damaging impact will be on customer-facing businesses such as shops , personal services and hospitality .
In pubs , restaurants and entertainment , it could mean a 50 % drop in trade .
Bloomsbury Bowling in central London opened 15 years ago , in the same week the 7/7 bombers destroyed a bus in Tavistock Square just round the corner .
Owner Jon Dalton , who also runs a chain of pubs in the capital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business like this .
`` We went from 100mph to nothing .
We had our best-ever year , and now we have no business , '' he told Sky News , speaking in a venue that typically hosted several hundred people a night .
He has furloughed more than 200 staff across his companies and is thinking about how he might return to some kind of safe trading .
For his pubs , he is working on an app that would allow people to order drinks remotely and have them delivered to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alley , he can close every other lane to ensure a safe distance , or split a single group of eight players across two lanes .
But both options would lead to a drastic reduction in the number of people he can accommodate and the revenue he will generate .
`` You are looking at a 50 % drop in revenues at best .
Nobody knows how fast confidence will return , how soon people are going to want to go out , '' Mr Dalton said .
: : Listen to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Like many in the hospitality industry , he wants the government to extend the furlough scheme beyond the current end date of June and , when the time comes to open , to scrap VAT for the sector so businesses can survive and perhaps tempt customers .
Pied a Terre , a Michelin-starred restaurant in Fitzrovia , offers a more sedate atmosphere but faces the same challenge .
David Moore opened the doors 28 years ago , only previously closing when fire ravaged the building .
Social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff in the narrow corridor that links the two dining rooms - and he will have to remove several of the 14 tables , taking revenue with them .
Mr Moore has used the furlough scheme to retain staff , but believes the hospitality industry needs a government-backed deal with landlords to survive a lengthy shutdown .
The proposal is for nine months ' rent to be deferred and tacked on to the end of leases , with a hardship fund for landlords who are as desperate for the income as restaurateurs .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is unclear whether the numbers will stack up .
`` It really is a small restaurant , but it can have maybe 40 people on the ground floor .
Okay , I have got the rates holiday , for which we are really grateful , but if we 're only going to be doing 20 people and I 'm paying the same rent , it 's going to be tricky to see how the business will make money , how it will survive , '' he said .
`` If you gave me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'd say let 's do the first week of September , because that 's historically busy for the hospitality world .
But if we go that far , there 'll be so many businesses that wo n't be able to survive due to rental payments , and other costs that just keep ticking along regardless . ''
Customers have adapted to social distancing in supermarkets out of necessity .
Now the 2m gap and one-way shopping mark the way forward for high streets that are currently deserted .
When non-essential shops reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and for now , we may have seen the end of browsing .
There are questions too about the trend towards offering customers retail `` experiences '' which may be impossible with social distancing .
Cristina Bruzzolo , who runs the independent Colibri boutique in Islington , says she will try to adapt .
`` We will allow people to come in at set times for browsing and we will have also a booking system online so that people can book to try clothes on , '' she said .
The government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might be eased , and points to the substantial package of support it has offered to businesses .
The furlough scheme is already paying the partial wages of more than four million people , and grants , rates holidays and state-backed loan schemes are available .
But many businesses say that without an indication of how long the current stasis may last , or what the market may look like in future , it may make no sense to keep incurring costs to keep a company alive .
If enough companies choose to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gamble on furloughing will have failed .
As well as working out a safe way of cutting and colouring hair , he will have to remove four of the nine customer chairs to comply with social distancing , which means fewer customers and less work for his staff .
Despite having business interruption insurance , his broker has refused to pay out - leaving him to wonder if he should cut his losses or keep going in a deeply uncertain environment .
`` With social distancing the business model starts to break down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of rent , business rates , all of the debts that may have been built up through this lockdown period .
And so , as a business owner , you start to look at that and you say , well , is it worth it ?
`` My concern for our employees and the economy as a whole really is , as the lockdown ends , will we then see huge numbers of businesses failing and huge numbers of redundancies . ''

COVID-19 has brought parts of the economy to a standstill.
At a stroke, lockdown measures emptied the streets, closed shops, offices, pubs and restaurants, and consigned millions of people to the novelty of working from home, or the uncertainty of a furloughed salary.
Now, with the first indications that restrictions may be eased, businesses are wondering how they can reopen safely and, for all the government support on offer, whether they can survive - or if it is even worth trying.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:20 Rishi Sunak: 'We can't protect every job'
Safely lifting the lockdown poses a profound challenge to business. At its heart is the new reality of social distancing - the requirement to keep a 2m (6.5ft) gap between staff, customers and colleagues to avoid the risk of coronavirus spreading.
It is the metric that may soon define the pace and success of Britain's economic recovery, and the culture and practice of workspaces for months and perhaps years to come.
Firms will have to cut attendance accordingly, retaining a work-from-home culture or thinning staff, and public transport will have to adjust accordingly. Sky News understands that FTSE 100 companies are already preparing for such measures to be in place until the summer of 2021.
The more immediate and damaging impact will be on customer-facing businesses such as shops, personal services and hospitality.
In pubs, restaurants and entertainment, it could mean a 50% drop in trade.
Image: Jon Dalton owns Bloomsbury Bowling in central London
Bloomsbury Bowling in central London opened 15 years ago, in the same week the 7/7 bombers destroyed a bus in Tavistock Square just round the corner.
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Owner Jon Dalton, who also runs a chain of pubs in the capital, has never suffered a blow to business like this.
"We went from 100mph to nothing. We had our best-ever year, and now we have no business," he told Sky News, speaking in a venue that typically hosted several hundred people a night.
He has furloughed more than 200 staff across his companies and is thinking about how he might return to some kind of safe trading.
For his pubs, he is working on an app that would allow people to order drinks remotely and have them delivered to avoid a packed bar.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:10 How the lockdown is hitting small businesses
In the bowling alley, he can close every other lane to ensure a safe distance, or split a single group of eight players across two lanes.
But both options would lead to a drastic reduction in the number of people he can accommodate and the revenue he will generate.
"You are looking at a 50% drop in revenues at best. Nobody knows how fast confidence will return, how soon people are going to want to go out," Mr Dalton said.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Like many in the hospitality industry, he wants the government to extend the furlough scheme beyond the current end date of June and, when the time comes to open, to scrap VAT for the sector so businesses can survive and perhaps tempt customers.
Pied a Terre, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Fitzrovia, offers a more sedate atmosphere but faces the same challenge.
David Moore opened the doors 28 years ago, only previously closing when fire ravaged the building.
Social distancing may be impossible for five members of staff in the narrow corridor that links the two dining rooms - and he will have to remove several of the 14 tables, taking revenue with them.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:49 Business owner documents life in lockdown
Mr Moore has used the furlough scheme to retain staff, but believes the hospitality industry needs a government-backed deal with landlords to survive a lengthy shutdown. The proposal is for nine months' rent to be deferred and tacked on to the end of leases, with a hardship fund for landlords who are as desperate for the income as restaurateurs.
Even if all that happens, he is unclear whether the numbers will stack up.
"It really is a small restaurant, but it can have maybe 40 people on the ground floor. Okay, I have got the rates holiday, for which we are really grateful, but if we're only going to be doing 20 people and I'm paying the same rent, it's going to be tricky to see how the business will make money, how it will survive," he said.
"If you gave me a favoured date to come back, I'd say let's do the first week of September, because that's historically busy for the hospitality world. But if we go that far, there'll be so many businesses that won't be able to survive due to rental payments, and other costs that just keep ticking along regardless."
Image: David Moore owns Pied a Terre, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Fitzrovia
Customers have adapted to social distancing in supermarkets out of necessity. Now the 2m gap and one-way shopping mark the way forward for high streets that are currently deserted.
When non-essential shops reopen, they will have to change - and for now, we may have seen the end of browsing.
There are questions too about the trend towards offering customers retail "experiences" which may be impossible with social distancing.
Image: Cristina Bruzzolo runs an independent boutique
Cristina Bruzzolo, who runs the independent Colibri boutique in Islington, says she will try to adapt.
"We will allow people to come in at set times for browsing and we will have also a booking system online so that people can book to try clothes on," she said.
The government has refused to discuss how or when lockdown might be eased, and points to the substantial package of support it has offered to businesses.
The furlough scheme is already paying the partial wages of more than four million people, and grants, rates holidays and state-backed loan schemes are available.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 How to practise social distancing
But many businesses say that without an indication of how long the current stasis may last, or what the market may look like in future, it may make no sense to keep incurring costs to keep a company alive.
If enough companies choose to cut their losses, the Treasury's gamble on furloughing will have failed.
James Ollerenshaw owns the Drawing Room hair salon in Spitalfields, east London.
As well as working out a safe way of cutting and colouring hair, he will have to remove four of the nine customer chairs to comply with social distancing, which means fewer customers and less work for his staff.
Image: James Ollerenshaw owns the Drawing Room hair salon in Spitalfields, east London
Despite having business interruption insurance, his broker has refused to pay out - leaving him to wonder if he should cut his losses or keep going in a deeply uncertain environment.
"With social distancing the business model starts to break down, you can't pay the same amount of rent, business rates, all of the debts that may have been built up through this lockdown period. And so, as a business owner, you start to look at that and you say, well, is it worth it?
"My concern for our employees and the economy as a whole really is, as the lockdown ends, will we then see huge numbers of businesses failing and huge numbers of redundancies."