news--2020-06-03--Black Lives Matter London protests: Scuffles with police mar mainly peaceful demonstrations

Clashes between police and protesters marred mainly peaceful London demonstrations in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement .
The day of action following the death of George Floyd in the US passed largely without incident , as thousands of people flooded into the centre of the capital .
Activists chanted `` black lives matter '' and `` we will not be silent '' at Speakers ' Corner in Hyde Park , before tensions escalated when the demonstration moved to outside Downing Street .
Star Wars actor John Boyega was among those to speak earlier at the rally before protesters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , marched on Westminster .
Naomi Smith , one of the event organisers , said : `` We want people to understand that people are dying from coronavirus and people are dying from racism . ''
She said one of her reasons for protesting was Belly Mujinga , a railway worker who died with COVID-19 after reportedly being spat at by a man who said he was infected with the virus .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker While British Transport Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it later said it would be taking no further action .
`` I think that is my main reason for this , because she 's black she does n't have a voice right now , '' Ms Smith said .
`` This is our story , this is a UK story , this is what 's going on right now with us .
George Floyd is in America , and we 're here for him as well . ''
Chief constables from across the UK issued a joint statement saying they `` stand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are appalled and horrified '' after black 46-year-old Mr Floyd died in Minneapolis when a white police officer knelt on his neck for eight minutes .
His death on May 25 sparked days of protest in the US .
And speaking during the daily Downing Street coronavirus press conference on Wednesday , Boris Johnson said : `` We mourn George Floyd and I was appalled and sickened to see what happened to him .
`` And my message to President Trump , to everybody in the United States , from the UK is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's an opinion I 'm sure is shared by the overwhelming majority of people around the world - racism , racist violence , has no place in our society . ''
He said people had the right to protest , but added : `` I would urge people to protest peacefully , and in accordance with the rules on social distancing .
Everybody 's lives matter , black lives matter , but we must fight this virus as well . ''
In footage that shows the clashes , one protester standing in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pushed back by police .
A scuffle then ensued as he was wrestled to the ground by officers , before a small number of demonstrators also pushed through barricades .
Separate footage showed objects including signs and a traffic cone being thrown at police .
Some officers had been seen `` taking a knee '' earlier in the day , but none joined protesters in doing so when they knelt at 6pm .
Several hundred demonstrators were also at Trafalgar Square .
While many heeded organisers ' requests that people went home following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside Downing Street chanting .
Many climbed on to window ledges of a neighbouring building as others talked with police outside the gates to the street .
There were some reports of journalists being attacked and police were seen at one point escorting a man to the side of the road who was bleeding from the head , with blood over his clothes and camera .
A crowd then followed a group of officers to outside the Foreign and Commonwealth Office , where protesters shouted `` answer for your crimes '' and `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police formed two lines and rested their batons on their shoulders , shouting `` get back '' to protesters as they separated the crowds .
A Nine News Australia reporter was also filmed abandoning his live broadcast to flee as tensions flared up .
Organisers in Hyde Park gave masks and gloves to protesters , who were asked to sit two metres apart unless they were from the same household .
Thousands of activists , including members of the railway worker 's family , descended on Victoria Station - where Ms Mujinga was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incident - holding a sign that read `` Justice for Belly Mujinga '' .
Separate peaceful protests also took place in Edinburgh and Belfast , where around 2,000 demonstrators took over the main road in front of the landmark City Hall for more than two hours , forcing police to divert traffic .

Clashes between police and protesters marred mainly peaceful London demonstrations in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.
The day of action following the death of George Floyd in the US passed largely without incident, as thousands of people flooded into the centre of the capital.
Activists chanted "black lives matter" and "we will not be silent" at Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park, before tensions escalated when the demonstration moved to outside Downing Street.
Image: The London protest was largely peaceful
Star Wars actor John Boyega was among those to speak earlier at the rally before protesters, many wearing masks and holding placards, marched on Westminster.
Naomi Smith, one of the event organisers, said: "We want people to understand that people are dying from coronavirus and people are dying from racism."
She said one of her reasons for protesting was Belly Mujinga, a railway worker who died with COVID-19 after reportedly being spat at by a man who said he was infected with the virus.
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 Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
While British Transport Police launched an investigation into her death, it later said it would be taking no further action.
"I think that is my main reason for this, because she's black she doesn't have a voice right now," Ms Smith said.
Advertisement
"This is our story, this is a UK story, this is what's going on right now with us. George Floyd is in America, and we're here for him as well."
Image: Protesters throw barricades at the gates of Downing Street
Image: Police officers and protesters in Parliament Square
Chief constables from across the UK issued a joint statement saying they "stand alongside all those across the globe who are appalled and horrified" after black 46-year-old Mr Floyd died in Minneapolis when a white police officer knelt on his neck for eight minutes.
His death on May 25 sparked days of protest in the US.
Image: Police officers and protesters in Whitehall
Image: People block the road in Whitehall
And speaking during the daily Downing Street coronavirus press conference on Wednesday, Boris Johnson said: "We mourn George Floyd and I was appalled and sickened to see what happened to him.
"And my message to President Trump, to everybody in the United States, from the UK is that I don't think racism - it's an opinion I'm sure is shared by the overwhelming majority of people around the world - racism, racist violence, has no place in our society."
Image: Police officers clash with protesters in Parliament Square
Image: Protesters and police officers during a Black Lives Matter protest rally on Whitehall
He said people had the right to protest, but added: "I would urge people to protest peacefully, and in accordance with the rules on social distancing. Everybody's lives matter, black lives matter, but we must fight this virus as well."
In footage that shows the clashes, one protester standing in front of a barricade is seen being pushed back by police.
Image: A man is detained by police officers in Whitehall
Image: A man with a camera has an injury looked at during the rally near Hyde Park
A scuffle then ensued as he was wrestled to the ground by officers, before a small number of demonstrators also pushed through barricades.
Separate footage showed objects including signs and a traffic cone being thrown at police.
Image: Police officers are spayed with a liquid in Parliament Square
Image: Protesters and police officers in Parliament Square
Some officers had been seen "taking a knee" earlier in the day, but none joined protesters in doing so when they knelt at 6pm.
Several hundred demonstrators were also at Trafalgar Square.
While many heeded organisers' requests that people went home following the brief flare-up, some protesters remained outside Downing Street chanting.
Many climbed on to window ledges of a neighbouring building as others talked with police outside the gates to the street.
Image: Police move protesters back in Whitehall
There were some reports of journalists being attacked and police were seen at one point escorting a man to the side of the road who was bleeding from the head, with blood over his clothes and camera.
A crowd then followed a group of officers to outside the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, where protesters shouted "answer for your crimes" and "no justice, no peace".
Police formed two lines and rested their batons on their shoulders, shouting "get back" to protesters as they separated the crowds.
A Nine News Australia reporter was also filmed abandoning his live broadcast to flee as tensions flared up.
Organisers in Hyde Park gave masks and gloves to protesters, who were asked to sit two metres apart unless they were from the same household.
Thousands of activists, including members of the railway worker's family, descended on Victoria Station - where Ms Mujinga was working at the time of the spitting incident - holding a sign that read "Justice for Belly Mujinga".
Separate peaceful protests also took place in Edinburgh and Belfast, where around 2,000 demonstrators took over the main road in front of the landmark City Hall for more than two hours, forcing police to divert traffic.


news--2020-05-30--Coronavirus: Artists turn pandemic struggles into street murals

Street art is having a moment .
While galleries are closed , deserted cities across the UK offer an irresistible canvas for creatives .
They paint a powerful and political picture , reflecting the hope , joy and sorrow of the COVID-19 crisis .
`` I 'm a portrait painter and I like celebrating people through my art , but this is like a special thank you to the NHS heroes . ''
Standing in front of his mural in south London , which features a nurse in a face mask , he said the street is like a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although some people question whether the street art is legal , most of the time he gets a positive response .
`` Most people do n't see the process of art being created with spray paint , '' he continued .
`` Something of this scale , art with a message , [ people ] stop , have a chat , take photos , and that completes the process for me . ''
Street artist Nathan Bowen 's inspiration has also been a desire to paint a love letter of sorts to frontline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Shoreditch is `` close to my heart '' , he said , because his brother 's partner is a frontline health worker .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' I think street art is so important right now because people are just going shopping to Tesco or on their way to work and all they are seeing is dead boards .
Street art raises the vibe , '' he added .
Harry Blackmore 's latest graffiti artwork is a more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This one 's more of a representation of what 's going on right now , you know the virus and how it 's affecting everyone , '' he said .
This artwork is mature and thoughtful and is not to be confused with or dismissed as mindless graffiti by bored teenagers in lockdown .
As if to validate the trend , the mega stars of the art world have also been releasing new pandemic-inspired works .
Two new Banksy pieces have caused a stir - rats running riot in the bathroom , posted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS workers which appeared at Southampton Hospital .
Entitled Game Changer , the mural of a little boy playing with a superhero nurse was left with a note which read : `` Thanks for all you 're doing .
I hope this brightens the place up a bit . ''
British graffiti artist STIK , who is known for painting large stick figures , has unveiled a new artwork called We Are Together at London 's iconic Piccadilly Lights as part of a campaign to support young people during the pandemic .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , many institutions are finding increasingly innovative ways to bring art out from behind closed doors .
The National Gallery has teamed up with Ocean Outdoor to show works of art on big advertising screens around the country .
Lawrence Chiles , head of digital services at the National Gallery , explained : `` Whilst we 've been closed , we 're trying to bring our artworks out so people can see in different locations whether that 's in the home or on the streets .
`` Hopefully they 'll be inspired to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the near future . ''
The works on show to look out for on your drive include Van Gogh 's Sunflowers , Monet 's The Water Lily Pond , and Vigee Le Brun 's Self Portrait In A Straw Hat .
`` The importance of culture in times of stress is well-documented and is really key , '' Mr Chiles said .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Street art is having a moment. While galleries are closed, deserted cities across the UK offer an irresistible canvas for creatives.
They paint a powerful and political picture, reflecting the hope, joy and sorrow of the COVID-19 crisis.
"Ultimately it's art with a message," London artist Atila told Sky News.
"I'm a portrait painter and I like celebrating people through my art, but this is like a special thank you to the NHS heroes."
Standing in front of his mural in south London, which features a nurse in a face mask, he said the street is like a "public gallery".
He said that although some people question whether the street art is legal, most of the time he gets a positive response.
"Most people don't see the process of art being created with spray paint," he continued. "Something of this scale, art with a message, [people] stop, have a chat, take photos, and that completes the process for me."
Street artist Nathan Bowen's inspiration has also been a desire to paint a love letter of sorts to frontline workers.
The ambulance he has painted in Shoreditch is "close to my heart", he said, because his brother's partner is a frontline health worker.
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"I think street art is so important right now because people are just going shopping to Tesco or on their way to work and all they are seeing is dead boards. Street art raises the vibe," he added.
Image: Nathan Bowen says the ambulance is 'close to my heart'
Harry Blackmore's latest graffiti artwork is a more literal depiction of COVID-19 itself.
"This one's more of a representation of what's going on right now, you know the virus and how it's affecting everyone," he said.
This artwork is mature and thoughtful and is not to be confused with or dismissed as mindless graffiti by bored teenagers in lockdown.
As if to validate the trend, the mega stars of the art world have also been releasing new pandemic-inspired works.
Two new Banksy pieces have caused a stir - rats running riot in the bathroom, posted on Instagram, and a homage to NHS workers which appeared at Southampton Hospital.
Image: The new Banksy piece pays tribute to hospital workers. Pic: Banksy
Entitled Game Changer, the mural of a little boy playing with a superhero nurse was left with a note which read: "Thanks for all you're doing. I hope this brightens the place up a bit."
British graffiti artist STIK, who is known for painting large stick figures, has unveiled a new artwork called We Are Together at London's iconic Piccadilly Lights as part of a campaign to support young people during the pandemic.
Image: STIK's art has been unveiled at Piccadilly Lights
And as museums and galleries remain indefinitely closed, many institutions are finding increasingly innovative ways to bring art out from behind closed doors.
The National Gallery has teamed up with Ocean Outdoor to show works of art on big advertising screens around the country.
Image: An NHS nurse is honoured through street art
Lawrence Chiles, head of digital services at the National Gallery, explained: "Whilst we've been closed, we're trying to bring our artworks out so people can see in different locations whether that's in the home or on the streets.
"Hopefully they'll be inspired to come and visit us when we reopen in the near future."
The works on show to look out for on your drive include Van Gogh's Sunflowers, Monet's The Water Lily Pond, and Vigee Le Brun's Self Portrait In A Straw Hat.
"The importance of culture in times of stress is well-documented and is really key," Mr Chiles said.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-31--Coronavirus: Shielding group still uneasy about COVID-19 threat

Some of those people most vulnerable to the coronavirus have said they are reluctant to venture beyond their own properties , despite being told they can do so safely from Monday .
When coronavirus began to take hold of the UK in March , letters were sent to millions of people telling them that , due to their health , they would need to stay inside for at least 12 weeks .
They could not even enjoy the albeit limited exceptions enjoyed by the healthy population - exercise away from home or food shopping , for example .
Just days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hear these rules were being eased and they would be able to leave their homes from Monday .
On Sunday morning , Health Secretary Matt Hancock tweeted : `` Now we 've flattened the curve and reduced new infections , from tomorrow , the 2.2 million people who have been shielding can safely go outside . ''
However , some of those who spoke to Sky News were worried , as figures show that the virus is still infecting thousands of people daily and that deaths are at a higher rate than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took the same lockdown steps .
Reverend Paul Gill Rider , who has been shielding at his home in Norwich due to severe asthma , said he was surprised to learn about the changes .
He said : `` I 'm eager to get out but I 'm also hesitant because I 'm thinking this is too early to ease up on restrictions .
`` I 'm afraid there will be another spike and I just do n't know we 're prepared for it .
`` I 'm very grateful to the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I feel very grateful they told me to shield because of my asthma and that I 'm getting regular contact with them , but still somewhat concerned about the easing of things tomorrow . ''
During his time in lockdown , Mr Rider has received a few deliveries at the door and hosted the Sunday morning church service and Wednesday coffee morning by video conferencing software Zoom .
He walks in his garden every day , from where he can hear `` people around me who are able to go outside , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and their families '' .
He walks along the gravel path in front of his house once a week , but says `` I dare not get any more than that '' .
Stephen Wright is from Middlesbrough and was told to stay at home due to his severe COPD ( chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ) , nasal polyps which affect his breathing , combined with his recent recovery from cancer .
He said the time spent indoors had been `` very strange '' and `` not easy '' , adding : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much an outgoing person so it has very much changed my personality , I believe , in the last 12 weeks . ''
Mr Wright said he had been `` quite shocked actually '' to hear on the news that the rules for those in the vulnerable health group were changing so soon .
`` I know we 're allowed out tomorrow .
Will I be going out tomorrow ?
Probably not .
`` I 'm petrified of the outside world at the moment , and that 's not me . ''
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He said he had received a phone call early in the lockdown offering help but he had refused , saying he had his wife to help him and that there were `` other people in greater need than me '' .
`` I 'm blessed to be inside safe , '' he said .
`` There are a lot of people , key workers in this country , my heart goes out to them .
`` My wife is trying to convince me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't made my decision yet but I will try . ''
Caroline McKay , from Blackpool , has been shielding at home with her husband and six-year-old daughter .
She has been unwell for several years but was diagnosed last April with relapsing polychondritis and other auto-immune problems , asthma and emphysema .
She said she received contradictory messages about whether she needed to shield so had , out of caution , decided to do so .
She told Sky News : `` Normally we spend a lot of time outside in parks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ places , visiting family but obviously with the virus we have not been able to .
`` We have just had to make the most of what we can at the moment , trying to work together as a family and a team .
`` ( Her daughter ) has had some challenging behaviours , mainly through anxiety and me being unwell , but there 's not a lot we can do until we all feel more safe to be out . ''
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Some of those people most vulnerable to the coronavirus have said they are reluctant to venture beyond their own properties, despite being told they can do so safely from Monday.
When coronavirus began to take hold of the UK in March, letters were sent to millions of people telling them that, due to their health, they would need to stay inside for at least 12 weeks.
They could not even enjoy the albeit limited exceptions enjoyed by the healthy population - exercise away from home or food shopping, for example.
Just days ago, however, many were surprised to hear these rules were being eased and they would be able to leave their homes from Monday.
On Sunday morning, Health Secretary Matt Hancock tweeted: "Now we've flattened the curve and reduced new infections, from tomorrow, the 2.2 million people who have been shielding can safely go outside."
However, some of those who spoke to Sky News were worried, as figures show that the virus is still infecting thousands of people daily and that deaths are at a higher rate than that seen in many European countries which took the same lockdown steps.
Image: Paul Gill Rider says he has been able to exercise in his garden
Reverend Paul Gill Rider, who has been shielding at his home in Norwich due to severe asthma, said he was surprised to learn about the changes.
He said: "I'm eager to get out but I'm also hesitant because I'm thinking this is too early to ease up on restrictions.
"I'm afraid there will be another spike and I just don't know we're prepared for it.
Advertisement
"I'm very grateful to the NHS for all they've done for everyone. I feel very grateful they told me to shield because of my asthma and that I'm getting regular contact with them, but still somewhat concerned about the easing of things tomorrow."
During his time in lockdown, Mr Rider has received a few deliveries at the door and hosted the Sunday morning church service and Wednesday coffee morning by video conferencing software Zoom.
He walks in his garden every day, from where he can hear "people around me who are able to go outside, walk the pavements and be with other people and their families".
He walks along the gravel path in front of his house once a week, but says "I dare not get any more than that".
Image: Steve Wright said his wife had been "brilliant" in helping him during the lockdown
Stephen Wright is from Middlesbrough and was told to stay at home due to his severe COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), nasal polyps which affect his breathing, combined with his recent recovery from cancer.
He said the time spent indoors had been "very strange" and "not easy", adding: "I'm used to being very much an outgoing person so it has very much changed my personality, I believe, in the last 12 weeks."
Mr Wright said he had been "quite shocked actually" to hear on the news that the rules for those in the vulnerable health group were changing so soon.
He added: "I'm extremely worried.
"I know we're allowed out tomorrow. Will I be going out tomorrow? Probably not.
"I'm petrified of the outside world at the moment, and that's not me."
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 Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He said he had received a phone call early in the lockdown offering help but he had refused, saying he had his wife to help him and that there were "other people in greater need than me".
"I'm blessed to be inside safe," he said. "There are a lot of people, key workers in this country, my heart goes out to them.
"My wife is trying to convince me to go out tomorrow. I haven't made my decision yet but I will try."
Image: Steve said he has not decided if he is ready to leave his home
Caroline McKay, from Blackpool, has been shielding at home with her husband and six-year-old daughter.
She has been unwell for several years but was diagnosed last April with relapsing polychondritis and other auto-immune problems, asthma and emphysema.
She said she received contradictory messages about whether she needed to shield so had, out of caution, decided to do so.
She told Sky News: "Normally we spend a lot of time outside in parks and on the beach, visiting different places, visiting family but obviously with the virus we have not been able to.
"We have just had to make the most of what we can at the moment, trying to work together as a family and a team.
"(Her daughter) has had some challenging behaviours, mainly through anxiety and me being unwell, but there's not a lot we can do until we all feel more safe to be out."
Image: Caroline McKay has been staying inside with her husband and daughter
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-31--Coronavirus: Test capacity tops 200,000 one day ahead of schedule

The UK can now test more than 200,000 people for coronavirus per day , the Department for Health and Social Care has said .
A total of 205,634 tests were available on Saturday , a day earlier than the original target of 31 May .
This includes the capacity for 40,000 COVID-19 antibody tests a day which are currently available to NHS staff and care workers , to determine whether they have had the virus .
A system described as surveillance testing is also under way to develop a greater understanding of how coronavirus is moving through the population .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ conducted across the UK so far .
Health secretary Matt Hancock said : `` Reaching our 200,000 capacity target is an important milestone on our journey to control the spread of the virus , save lives and gradually ease lockdown .
`` By rapidly expanding our testing capacity we have been able to introduce NHS Test and Trace , and enabling those who have coronavirus symptoms to get a test is an important part of the programme .
`` I want to thank and pay tribute to the incredible team who joined together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we 've seen .
`` We brought together the best minds in the civil service , NHS , PHE , universities and the scientific community , the armed forces and private sector companies across the globe to reach this incredible achievement .
`` This is by no means the end of our ramping up of testing .
`` We will continue to build upon the tremendous work so far , exploring new technology and deliver even more test results . ''
Professor John Newton , national testing coordinator , added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed us to take important steps to control the virus , including the introduction of a world-class contact tracing service that will help us to safely ease lockdown over time .
`` I am proud to say that anyone in the country who needs a test can get one , regardless of where in the country they are .
`` We will continue to develop and grow our testing capabilities , to learn more about transmission of the virus and how it has previously spread . ''
The government said more than 150 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set up to help achieve the target .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

The UK can now test more than 200,000 people for coronavirus per day, the Department for Health and Social Care has said.
A total of 205,634 tests were available on Saturday, a day earlier than the original target of 31 May.
This includes the capacity for 40,000 COVID-19 antibody tests a day which are currently available to NHS staff and care workers, to determine whether they have had the virus.
Image: Live samples are held at the testing lab at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow
A system described as surveillance testing is also under way to develop a greater understanding of how coronavirus is moving through the population.
More than 250,000 surveillance tests have been conducted across the UK so far.
Health secretary Matt Hancock said: "Reaching our 200,000 capacity target is an important milestone on our journey to control the spread of the virus, save lives and gradually ease lockdown.
"By rapidly expanding our testing capacity we have been able to introduce NHS Test and Trace, and enabling those who have coronavirus symptoms to get a test is an important part of the programme.
"I want to thank and pay tribute to the incredible team who joined together in one of the greatest national mobilisations that we've seen.
"We brought together the best minds in the civil service, NHS, PHE, universities and the scientific community, the armed forces and private sector companies across the globe to reach this incredible achievement.
Advertisement
"This is by no means the end of our ramping up of testing.
"We will continue to build upon the tremendous work so far, exploring new technology and deliver even more test results."
Professor John Newton, national testing coordinator, added: "The expansion of our testing capacity has allowed us to take important steps to control the virus, including the introduction of a world-class contact tracing service that will help us to safely ease lockdown over time.
"I am proud to say that anyone in the country who needs a test can get one, regardless of where in the country they are.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:21 Coronavirus tests, in less than an hour
"We will continue to develop and grow our testing capabilities, to learn more about transmission of the virus and how it has previously spread."
The government said more than 150 drive-through and mobile testing sites have been set up to help achieve the target.
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 Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-31--Coronavirus: PM's stand-in 'unaware' of Dominic Cummings lockdown trip

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has admitted he did not know Boris Johnson 's top aide had travelled to Durham during lockdown while he was standing in for the prime minister .
Speaking to Sky News ' Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme , the Tory frontbencher said he had been unaware of the movements of Dominic Cummings when Boris Johnson was taken into hospital with COVID-19 and he was left in charge .
While he knew Mr Cummings `` was out of action because he had come down with coronavirus '' , he said he `` was not focused on his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't aware of them '' .
It was only when the story broke that he became aware of the senior adviser 's controversial trip to the north , he added .
His comments follow a furious row after it was revealed that in March , Mr Cummings drove 260 miles from his London home to his parents ' farm in County Durham with his wife - who had coronavirus symptoms - and his son .
In a public statement , the PM 's senior adviser explained he decided to make the trip because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-isolate in a place where he had options for childcare if needed , and insisted he had acted `` reasonably '' and within the law .
He added he had made a 50-mile round-trip to Barnard Castle with his wife and child 15 days later to test his eyesight before embarking on the longer journey back to London .
On Friday , Durham police said Mr Cummings might have broken lockdown rules , but it would have been a `` minor breach '' .
Mr Johnson has refused to sack his adviser , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a large number of his own backbenchers .
Pressed over when he found out about Mr Cummings 's travels , Mr Raab told Ridge : `` I 'm not sure .
But to be honest with you , when the story broke was when I first became aware of the detail of it .
`` I just knew that he was out of action because he had come down with coronavirus and , given the situation we were in with the prime minister taken ill , and very seriously ill as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the government and with a great cabinet team on making sure we continued to focus relentlessly on dealing with the virus .
`` I mean I knew Dom was unwell and he was out of action , and obviously I wanted him and the prime minister to get well soon , but I was n't focused on his movements at all and I was n't aware of them . ''
Meanwhile , chairman of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee Tom Tugendhat has added his name to a growing list of Conservative MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Cummings .
He told Ridge : `` I 'm not going to answer for the government , I 'm not going to defend the government in that way .
`` The prime minister has made his decision .
You know , you can see the effect of it , you do n't need me to tell you , you can see how people have reacted to it and I 've written to the people I 'm privileged enough to represent to give them my views . ''
Asked what he told his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I said I can understand the frustration but it is fundamentally up to the prime minister and it is going to be up to all of us to express our views . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He added : `` This is not the first time I have had moments of frustration with my own government .
I do n't always agree with everything that the administration does .
`` I really do think the purpose of our government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to serve the interests of the people , not to get wrapped up in HR disputes .
`` If the prime minister is adamant that he wishes to keep an adviser or not - fine , that fundamentally is their decision and they have to bear the consequences of it .
`` But what I really want to see them doing is to be making sure that we work to deliver an economy that works for as many businesses as possible .
`` The real challenge is the economy is turning and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it back as well as possible to growth . ''
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has admitted he did not know Boris Johnson's top aide had travelled to Durham during lockdown while he was standing in for the prime minister.
Speaking to Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme, the Tory frontbencher said he had been unaware of the movements of Dominic Cummings when Boris Johnson was taken into hospital with COVID-19 and he was left in charge.
While he knew Mr Cummings "was out of action because he had come down with coronavirus", he said he "was not focused on his movements at all" and "wasn't aware of them".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:14 'The rules are clear and they have always been clear'
It was only when the story broke that he became aware of the senior adviser's controversial trip to the north, he added.
His comments follow a furious row after it was revealed that in March, Mr Cummings drove 260 miles from his London home to his parents' farm in County Durham with his wife - who had coronavirus symptoms - and his son.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:33 Tory MP's frustration over Dominic Cummings row
In a public statement, the PM's senior adviser explained he decided to make the trip because he felt it would be better to self-isolate in a place where he had options for childcare if needed, and insisted he had acted "reasonably" and within the law.
He added he had made a 50-mile round-trip to Barnard Castle with his wife and child 15 days later to test his eyesight before embarking on the longer journey back to London.
On Friday, Durham police said Mr Cummings might have broken lockdown rules, but it would have been a "minor breach".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:14 Why is Cummings so important to the PM?
Mr Johnson has refused to sack his adviser, despite a storm of protest and calls by a large number of his own backbenchers.
Advertisement
Pressed over when he found out about Mr Cummings's travels, Mr Raab told Ridge: "I'm not sure. But to be honest with you, when the story broke was when I first became aware of the detail of it.
"I just knew that he was out of action because he had come down with coronavirus and, given the situation we were in with the prime minister taken ill, and very seriously ill as it later emerged, I was just focused with the government and with a great cabinet team on making sure we continued to focus relentlessly on dealing with the virus.
"I mean I knew Dom was unwell and he was out of action, and obviously I wanted him and the prime minister to get well soon, but I wasn't focused on his movements at all and I wasn't aware of them."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:36 Public have their say on Dominic Cummings
Meanwhile, chairman of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee Tom Tugendhat has added his name to a growing list of Conservative MPs "frustrated" by the furore surrounding Mr Cummings.
He told Ridge: "I'm not going to answer for the government, I'm not going to defend the government in that way.
"The prime minister has made his decision. You know, you can see the effect of it, you don't need me to tell you, you can see how people have reacted to it and I've written to the people I'm privileged enough to represent to give them my views."
Asked what he told his constituents, Mr Tugendhat said: "I said I can understand the frustration but it is fundamentally up to the prime minister and it is going to be up to all of us to express our views."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He added: "This is not the first time I have had moments of frustration with my own government. I don't always agree with everything that the administration does.
"I really do think the purpose of our government, any government in fact, is to serve the interests of the people, not to get wrapped up in HR disputes.
"If the prime minister is adamant that he wishes to keep an adviser or not - fine, that fundamentally is their decision and they have to bear the consequences of it.
"But what I really want to see them doing is to be making sure that we work to deliver an economy that works for as many businesses as possible.
"The real challenge is the economy is turning and we need to make sure that we get it back as well as possible to growth."
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-30--Coronavirus: Care home uses glass screen to let residents see loved ones

After a couple of pumps of hand sanitiser , Judy Ogilvy walks into a small room and says simply : `` Hello , dad . ''
Pre-COVID-19 , that would be nothing special .
But today it is .
Because this is the Beverley Parklands care home in East Yorkshire , and it 's the first time Ms Ogilvy has seen her 92-year-old father , Dick Ferriday , face to face for 11 weeks .
This visit has been made possible by the simplest of solutions : a sheet of airtight acrylic glass cuts the room in half .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sits , there is a door leading directly to the car park .
On the other side , with a door leading into the care home , sits Mr Ferriday and one of the staff .
It 's frustrating that the physical contact is absent .
The hugs , the holding of hands , the daughter 's caring touch , all will have to wait for another time .
But for now , this is a welcome alternative .
`` It 's the first time I 've seen dad since the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I 've talked to him on the phone , which is lovely , but it 's not the same as seeing him face to face , seeing his smile .
`` It 's still upsetting that I ca n't hug him .
But it 's definitely the next best thing . ''
The safe visiting room is the idea of the Yorkare Care Group , and it 's being installed at each of its five homes .
Jonathan Garton , operations director , said : `` Our staff have been amazing at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period , but they are missing visits from their family over the last 10 weeks , and hopefully we have come up with the solution . ''
The issue of bio security and the government 's handling of the pandemic in relation to care homes has been in sharp focus since the early days of the crisis .
Hundreds of care homes have been affected by the virus , and the Yorkare group is no different .
In their population of around 350 residents at five sites , there have been four deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspected .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Yorkare says it took swift action to keep residents and staff safe , closing the home to visitors eight days before it was recommended by the government on 23 March .
It also instructed staff to wear face masks from 8 April , nine days before the government advisory was issued .
As the care home continues its efforts to keep staff and residents protected , it says extra safety precautions have been introduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They include a full safety guide for visitors , a timetable with gaps between slots to maintain social distancing , thorough cleaning schedules completed in between each visit , and alcohol gel stations .
Back in the visiting room , Mr Ferriday still ca n't take the regular walks into Beverley that he used to enjoy so much , and tells his daughter he 's worried he may struggle to regain his physical fitness levels after restrictions are lifted .
He 's happy that after almost three months , he can at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face to face .
But the hugs will sadly have to wait .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

After a couple of pumps of hand sanitiser, Judy Ogilvy walks into a small room and says simply: "Hello, dad."
Pre-COVID-19, that would be nothing special. But today it is.
Because this is the Beverley Parklands care home in East Yorkshire, and it's the first time Ms Ogilvy has seen her 92-year-old father, Dick Ferriday, face to face for 11 weeks.
Image: Ms Ogilvy says she is still upset she can't hug her father
This visit has been made possible by the simplest of solutions: a sheet of airtight acrylic glass cuts the room in half.
On one side, where Ms Ogilvy now sits, there is a door leading directly to the car park. On the other side, with a door leading into the care home, sits Mr Ferriday and one of the staff.
It's frustrating that the physical contact is absent. The hugs, the holding of hands, the daughter's caring touch, all will have to wait for another time.
But for now, this is a welcome alternative.
"It's the first time I've seen dad since the end of February," Ms Ogilvy said.
"I've talked to him on the phone, which is lovely, but it's not the same as seeing him face to face, seeing his smile.
Advertisement
"It's still upsetting that I can't hug him. But it's definitely the next best thing."
Image: The pair had not seen each other for 11 weeks
The safe visiting room is the idea of the Yorkare Care Group, and it's being installed at each of its five homes.
Jonathan Garton, operations director, said: "Our staff have been amazing at keeping our residents spirits high throughout this period, but they are missing visits from their family over the last 10 weeks, and hopefully we have come up with the solution."
Image: Jonathan Garton says he hopes this is a solution for those missing loved ones
The issue of bio security and the government's handling of the pandemic in relation to care homes has been in sharp focus since the early days of the crisis.
Hundreds of care homes have been affected by the virus, and the Yorkare group is no different.
In their population of around 350 residents at five sites, there have been four deaths where COVID-19 infection was either confirmed or suspected.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Yorkare says it took swift action to keep residents and staff safe, closing the home to visitors eight days before it was recommended by the government on 23 March.
It also instructed staff to wear face masks from 8 April, nine days before the government advisory was issued.
As the care home continues its efforts to keep staff and residents protected, it says extra safety precautions have been introduced to make the visiting facility COVID-19 secure.
They include a full safety guide for visitors, a timetable with gaps between slots to maintain social distancing, thorough cleaning schedules completed in between each visit, and alcohol gel stations.
Back in the visiting room, Mr Ferriday still can't take the regular walks into Beverley that he used to enjoy so much, and tells his daughter he's worried he may struggle to regain his physical fitness levels after restrictions are lifted.
He's happy that after almost three months, he can at least share his frustrations with his daughter face to face.
But the hugs will sadly have to wait.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-21--Coronavirus: Renewable energy overtakes fossil fuels in powering Britain

Renewable energy has overtaken fossil fuels for the first time in providing Britain 's power , generating more than 40 % in the first three months of the year , a study has found .
Storms during the wettest and windiest February since records began helped make it the first month ever when more electricity was produced by wind farms than gas-fired power stations across the country .
Wind farms were vying for top spot with gas in the electricity mix , generating 30.5 % of power , just behind fossil fuels which contributed 30.6 % between January and March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electricity in the week fell to its lowest levels since 1982 - down by 13 % - as a result of the coronavirus lockdown , which began in late March .
The strict measures meant a reduction in rail , tram and Tube services , with machinery , computers , lights and heaters not being used in industry , offices and schools .
The research claims it is `` like living through a month of Sundays '' for weekday power demand , while weekends have seen even less electricity needed on the grid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people having previously been told to `` stay at home '' , to prevent the spread of COVID-19 .
Iain Staffell , lead author of the quarterly Electric Insights reports , said : `` Britain 's electricity system is under pressure like never before , with both the country 's weather getting more extreme and a global pandemic testing its resolve .
`` So far in 2020 we 've seen companies reducing their demand for electricity to help keep the grid stable when supply from wind power rapidly decreased , and then the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up shop , reducing electricity demand and creating new challenges with oversupply of power .
`` Having flexibility within the power system at these critical moments is crucial to keeping Britain 's lights on '' , he continued .
The lockdown has also had an impact on carbon pollution , with emissions from British power production falling by 35 % on the same period last year .
Only time will tell whether the changes will continue after the restrictions are lifted , but the analysis suggests that with `` even a small share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home on some days , there could be a lasting impact on electricity demand for years to come '' .
Even before the nationwide lockdown , over the first quarter of the year the grid was cleaner than in the same period in 2019 .
Record levels of wind power in stormy conditions helped push down electricity generation from fossil fuels by 25 % , and emissions per unit of power produced were down 20 % on the first quarter of 2019 .
The trend is expected to continue , with more large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During times when wind power dropped in calmer conditions , flexible power stations and large companies reducing demand helped balance the grid , according to the report .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Two coal-powered plants were retired at the end of March , but before that they burned all their remaining fuel , running continuously for 117 days , pushing up coal generation for the quarter for the first time since 2012 .
Britain is currently in a record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There are just three coal plants left in Britain , with the Drax power station in North Yorkshire due to close in March 2021 , while the others could shut before the government 's 2024 deadline .

Renewable energy has overtaken fossil fuels for the first time in providing Britain's power, generating more than 40% in the first three months of the year, a study has found.
Storms during the wettest and windiest February since records began helped make it the first month ever when more electricity was produced by wind farms than gas-fired power stations across the country.
Wind farms were vying for top spot with gas in the electricity mix, generating 30.5% of power, just behind fossil fuels which contributed 30.6% between January and March.
Image: Renewables generated more than 40 percent of Britain's power in the first three months of the year. File pic
It also found that demand for electricity in the week fell to its lowest levels since 1982 - down by 13% - as a result of the coronavirus lockdown, which began in late March.
The strict measures meant a reduction in rail, tram and Tube services, with machinery, computers, lights and heaters not being used in industry, offices and schools.
The research claims it is "like living through a month of Sundays" for weekday power demand, while weekends have seen even less electricity needed on the grid - although domestic power increased due to people having previously been told to "stay at home", to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Iain Staffell, lead author of the quarterly Electric Insights reports, said: "Britain's electricity system is under pressure like never before, with both the country's weather getting more extreme and a global pandemic testing its resolve.
"So far in 2020 we've seen companies reducing their demand for electricity to help keep the grid stable when supply from wind power rapidly decreased, and then the COVID-19 lockdown caused many businesses to shut up shop, reducing electricity demand and creating new challenges with oversupply of power.
"Having flexibility within the power system at these critical moments is crucial to keeping Britain's lights on", he continued.
Advertisement
The lockdown has also had an impact on carbon pollution, with emissions from British power production falling by 35% on the same period last year.
Only time will tell whether the changes will continue after the restrictions are lifted, but the analysis suggests that with "even a small share of the population continuing to work from home on some days, there could be a lasting impact on electricity demand for years to come".
Even before the nationwide lockdown, over the first quarter of the year the grid was cleaner than in the same period in 2019.
Record levels of wind power in stormy conditions helped push down electricity generation from fossil fuels by 25%, and emissions per unit of power produced were down 20% on the first quarter of 2019.
The trend is expected to continue, with more large offshore wind farms coming online this year.
During times when wind power dropped in calmer conditions, flexible power stations and large companies reducing demand helped balance the grid, according to the report.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Two coal-powered plants were retired at the end of March, but before that they burned all their remaining fuel, running continuously for 117 days, pushing up coal generation for the quarter for the first time since 2012.
Britain is currently in a record coal-free run of more than 40 days.
There are just three coal plants left in Britain, with the Drax power station in North Yorkshire due to close in March 2021, while the others could shut before the government's 2024 deadline.


news--2020-05-31--Coronavirus: 'Too soon' for children to return to school, government warned

It is `` too soon '' for primary children to return to school when lockdown measures are relaxed from tomorrow , the government has been warned .
Dr Mary Bousted , joint general secretary of the National Education Union , also told Sky News the government has revised its plans to reopen schools 41 times since 12 May because of errors in judgement .
Ministers have claimed their five key tests required for the easing of lockdown have been met , with schools set to admit more pupils in Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 from Monday .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS can cope ; a `` sustained and consistent '' fall in the daily death rate ; the rate of infection decreasing to `` manageable levels '' ; ensuring testing and PPE supplies can meet future demand ; and ensuring any future adjustments would not risk a peak that could `` overwhelm '' the NHS .
Dr Bousted has argued the five tests have not been met and pointed out that members of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) , which advises the government on the coronavirus outbreak , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chair of the New Emergency Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group ( NERVTAG ) , along with fellow SAGE scientists Sir Jeremy Farrar and Professor John Edmunds , said ministers are taking a risk by easing lockdown restrictions on Monday .
Dr Bousted told Sophy Ridge on Sunday that children should instead return to school on 15 June when the infection rate should be lower .
She continued : `` We think tomorrow is too soon and we have made that argument very clearly for a number of weeks now , ever since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May .
Dr Bousted added : `` The government 's plans on reopening schools since they were first produced on 12 May have been changed 41 times .
`` And that 's because they 've constantly had to be revised as things they have forgotten , things they did n't know , and things they got wrong had to be added in .
`` That 's hugely added to the stresses of school leaders and teachers , because we have a government simply who they think is just making it up as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government 's latest plans have `` given up on social distancing in schools '' by favouring `` cohort distancing '' where children are taught in groups of 15 by one teacher .
Dr Bousted warned : `` Those children live in families who from tomorrow will be able to go out and socialise with other people .
`` We 're asking them ( the teachers ) without PPE and without social distancing to go into schools , at a time when the rate of infection is still the fifth highest incidence in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when there is not a fully functioning test , trace and isolate system in place . ''
She added that pupils should not be made to return to school throughout the summer holidays to catch up on missed classroom time , because teachers have been working `` even harder '' throughout the lockdown period .
Shadow communities secretary Steve Reed told Sophy Ridge that schools should not open in areas where it is not yet safe to do so .
Mr Reed said : `` I 'm saying the decisions need to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas .
`` We want schools to open as soon as possible , because that is the best thing for children , but we do n't want schools to open in areas where it is n't safe . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Caroline Johnson MP , vice chair of the Conservative Party and member of the education select committee , said : `` It is sad to see Labour and the hard-left NEU chasing headlines rather than acknowledging the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opening of schools .
`` Throughout this pandemic the government has engaged closely with the unions , schools and local authorities and that engagement continues .
Having reviewed the scientific and medical advice from SAGE , all of us want to ensure children can get the education they need whilst ensuring the risk of transmission is very low .
`` The safety and welfare of our children and all staff has been central to all decision making by ministers . ''
There are hopes all pupils will return to school four weeks before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though schools standards minister Nick Gibb has said the final decision will be led by the science .
Schools , colleges and nurseries closed more than nine weeks ago due to the COVID-19 outbreak , remaining open only for vulnerable youngsters and the children of key workers .

It is "too soon" for primary children to return to school when lockdown measures are relaxed from tomorrow, the government has been warned.
Dr Mary Bousted, joint general secretary of the National Education Union, also told Sky News the government has revised its plans to reopen schools 41 times since 12 May because of errors in judgement.
Ministers have claimed their five key tests required for the easing of lockdown have been met, with schools set to admit more pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 from Monday.
The prerequisites for lockdown easing were: Ensuring the NHS can cope; a "sustained and consistent" fall in the daily death rate; the rate of infection decreasing to "manageable levels"; ensuring testing and PPE supplies can meet future demand; and ensuring any future adjustments would not risk a peak that could "overwhelm" the NHS.
Dr Bousted has argued the five tests have not been met and pointed out that members of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), which advises the government on the coronavirus outbreak, agree with her.
Professor Peter Horby, chair of the New Emergency Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG), along with fellow SAGE scientists Sir Jeremy Farrar and Professor John Edmunds, said ministers are taking a risk by easing lockdown restrictions on Monday.
Dr Bousted told Sophy Ridge on Sunday that children should instead return to school on 15 June when the infection rate should be lower.
She continued: "We think tomorrow is too soon and we have made that argument very clearly for a number of weeks now, ever since Boris Johnson made his announcement on 10 May.
Dr Bousted added: "The government's plans on reopening schools since they were first produced on 12 May have been changed 41 times.
Advertisement
"And that's because they've constantly had to be revised as things they have forgotten, things they didn't know, and things they got wrong had to be added in.
"That's hugely added to the stresses of school leaders and teachers, because we have a government simply who they think is just making it up as it goes along."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:05 'People will die': SAGE member on lockdown easing
She added the government's latest plans have "given up on social distancing in schools" by favouring "cohort distancing" where children are taught in groups of 15 by one teacher.
Dr Bousted warned: "Those children live in families who from tomorrow will be able to go out and socialise with other people.
"We're asking them (the teachers) without PPE and without social distancing to go into schools, at a time when the rate of infection is still the fifth highest incidence in the world.
"And at a time when there is not a fully functioning test, trace and isolate system in place."
She added that pupils should not be made to return to school throughout the summer holidays to catch up on missed classroom time, because teachers have been working "even harder" throughout the lockdown period.
Shadow communities secretary Steve Reed told Sophy Ridge that schools should not open in areas where it is not yet safe to do so.
Mr Reed said: "I'm saying the decisions need to be taken based on the circumstances of different areas.
"We want schools to open as soon as possible, because that is the best thing for children, but we don't want schools to open in areas where it isn't safe."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Caroline Johnson MP, vice chair of the Conservative Party and member of the education select committee, said: "It is sad to see Labour and the hard-left NEU chasing headlines rather than acknowledging the facts around the phased, cautious wider opening of schools.
"Throughout this pandemic the government has engaged closely with the unions, schools and local authorities and that engagement continues. Having reviewed the scientific and medical advice from SAGE, all of us want to ensure children can get the education they need whilst ensuring the risk of transmission is very low.
"The safety and welfare of our children and all staff has been central to all decision making by ministers."
There are hopes all pupils will return to school four weeks before the summer break begins in July, though schools standards minister Nick Gibb has said the final decision will be led by the science.
Schools, colleges and nurseries closed more than nine weeks ago due to the COVID-19 outbreak, remaining open only for vulnerable youngsters and the children of key workers.


news--2020-05-31--World’s richest man Jeff Bezos offers Beacon to UK start-up

Jeff Bezos , the Amazon founder who has amassed a fortune large enough to see him crowned the world 's richest person , is to invest part of his wealth in a British technology start-up which wants to become a global logistics titan .
Sky News can reveal that Mr Bezos has agreed to back Beacon , a specialist in digital freight forwarding and supply chain finance .
Mr Bezos - who the Bloomberg Billionaires Index estimates is now worth $ 143bn ( £116bn ) - is understood to be participating in a $ 15m ( £12.2m ) Series A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this week .
Luring the world 's wealthiest man as a backer represents a huge coup for Beacon , particularly because as the founder and chief executive of Amazon , Mr Bezos is intimately acquainted with the complexities of supply chain management .
The tycoon , who owns the Washington Post , has a long track record of investing in start-ups , with Airbnb and Grail , a cancer detection company , among those he has backed .
He holds a roughly 12 % stake in Amazon , which has vied with Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Microsoft for the status of the world 's most valuable publicly-traded company .
At Friday 's closing share price of $ 2442.37 , Amazon was worth $ 1.22trn ( £988bn ) .
Launched in 2018 , the UK-based company uses artificial intelligence , cloud and other technology to improve operational efficiency for customers organising international trade in their products .
Freight forwarders act as agents between exporters and importers , taking a fee for the service they provide in arranging transport for goods from factories prior to their shipment .
They also administer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest players in the sector include DHL , the global logistics group , and Kuehne + Nagel , but the industry 's is regarded as having been slow to embrace the digital age .
Beacon was set up to drive efficiencies in a historically fragmented industry , with industry sources saying this weekend that the timing of its latest fundraising was shrewd .
The coronavirus pandemic has elevated the issue of supply chain integrity onto multinationals ' board agendas around the world .
Factories in parts of China - known as 'the workshop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its manufacturing capacity - were closed for several weeks earlier this year because of the virus , leaving companies scrambling to find alternative production routes for their goods .
Beacon is understood to have seen strong demand during the crisis from companies in the e-commerce and homewares sector , in particular .
The company offers a range of services - including global ocean , air freight and truck - which can be accessed and managed on a single platform .
Its technology provides both a real-time view of the global delivery of cargo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prices , with machine-learning tools allowing it to optimise shipping routes and processes for improved cost , speed and reliability .
Sources say it is markedly different to the likes of Uber Freight , a division of Uber Technologies , which offers point-to-point deliveries using trucks , with bookings made online .
One insider said the provision of supply chain finance was another key differentiator for Beacon .
The company helps importers to address cashflow needs by offering financing within 72 hours - a critical issue for importers who invariably have to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that can take several months .
By investing in Beacon , Mr Bezos joins one of the most prominent investor line-ups of any early-stage tech company in the world .
Its shareholders includes Eric Schmidt , the former Google chief executive , and Travis Kalanick , the Uber Technologies founder who was forced out of the ride-sharing start-up last year .
Beacon was founded by two former Uber executives , Fraser Robinson and Dmitri Izmailov .
`` It is a management team with deep expertise in logistics , technology , finance and hyper-growth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sources close to Beacon , its new funding will be deployed to expand its workforce and invest in new technological capability .
As part of the latest fundraising , 8VC , a Silicon Valley-based investor , is also acquiring a stake in the company .
Beacon is said to be on course to grow its revenues fivefold this year , with the COVID-19 pandemic expected to fuel demand for its services as clients seek to make their supply chains work more smoothly .
The company is also likely to benefit from supply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , investors believe .

Jeff Bezos, the Amazon founder who has amassed a fortune large enough to see him crowned the world's richest person, is to invest part of his wealth in a British technology start-up which wants to become a global logistics titan.
Sky News can reveal that Mr Bezos has agreed to back Beacon, a specialist in digital freight forwarding and supply chain finance.
Mr Bezos - who the Bloomberg Billionaires Index estimates is now worth $143bn (£116bn) - is understood to be participating in a $15m (£12.2m) Series A fundraising, to be announced by Beacon this week.
Luring the world's wealthiest man as a backer represents a huge coup for Beacon, particularly because as the founder and chief executive of Amazon, Mr Bezos is intimately acquainted with the complexities of supply chain management.
The tycoon, who owns the Washington Post, has a long track record of investing in start-ups, with Airbnb and Grail, a cancer detection company, among those he has backed.
He holds a roughly 12% stake in Amazon, which has vied with Apple, Google's parent Alphabet, and Microsoft for the status of the world's most valuable publicly-traded company.
At Friday's closing share price of $2442.37, Amazon was worth $1.22trn (£988bn).
Launched in 2018, the UK-based company uses artificial intelligence, cloud and other technology to improve operational efficiency for customers organising international trade in their products.
Freight forwarders act as agents between exporters and importers, taking a fee for the service they provide in arranging transport for goods from factories prior to their shipment.
Advertisement
Image: Bezos holds a roughly 12% stake in Amazon
They also administer relevant paperwork required for exports.
The biggest players in the sector include DHL, the global logistics group, and Kuehne + Nagel, but the industry's is regarded as having been slow to embrace the digital age.
Beacon was set up to drive efficiencies in a historically fragmented industry, with industry sources saying this weekend that the timing of its latest fundraising was shrewd.
The coronavirus pandemic has elevated the issue of supply chain integrity onto multinationals' board agendas around the world.
Factories in parts of China - known as 'the workshop of the world', because of its manufacturing capacity - were closed for several weeks earlier this year because of the virus, leaving companies scrambling to find alternative production routes for their goods.
Beacon is understood to have seen strong demand during the crisis from companies in the e-commerce and homewares sector, in particular.
The company offers a range of services - including global ocean, air freight and truck - which can be accessed and managed on a single platform.
Its technology provides both a real-time view of the global delivery of cargo and data on global shipping costs and prices, with machine-learning tools allowing it to optimise shipping routes and processes for improved cost, speed and reliability.
Sources say it is markedly different to the likes of Uber Freight, a division of Uber Technologies, which offers point-to-point deliveries using trucks, with bookings made online.
One insider said the provision of supply chain finance was another key differentiator for Beacon.
The company helps importers to address cashflow needs by offering financing within 72 hours - a critical issue for importers who invariably have to pay suppliers before goods begin a shipment journey that can take several months.
By investing in Beacon, Mr Bezos joins one of the most prominent investor line-ups of any early-stage tech company in the world.
Its shareholders includes Eric Schmidt, the former Google chief executive, and Travis Kalanick, the Uber Technologies founder who was forced out of the ride-sharing start-up last year.
Beacon was founded by two former Uber executives, Fraser Robinson and Dmitri Izmailov.
Pierre Martin, the company's chief technology officer, previously worked at Amazon.
"It is a management team with deep expertise in logistics, technology, finance and hyper-growth," a source said.
According to sources close to Beacon, its new funding will be deployed to expand its workforce and invest in new technological capability.
As part of the latest fundraising, 8VC, a Silicon Valley-based investor, is also acquiring a stake in the company.
Beacon is said to be on course to grow its revenues fivefold this year, with the COVID-19 pandemic expected to fuel demand for its services as clients seek to make their supply chains work more smoothly.
The company is also likely to benefit from supply chain complexities exacerbated by continuing Brexit-related uncertainty, investors believe.
A Beacon spokesman declined to comment on Sunday.


news--2020-05-30--Coronavirus: Bike sales surge as commuters search for 'new, isolated' travel

The UK 's bicycle industry says it has seen an `` enormous '' increase in the use and sale of bikes during the coronavirus lockdown .
National and local retailers in the UK say they have seen a rise in orders both for leisure and from those looking for a new , more isolated way to commute .
Chair of the Bicycle Association Phillip Darnton told Sky News the rise started shortly after the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions came into force in late March .
`` There 's been an enormous increase in the use and sales of bicycles - particularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
`` The streets themselves have become very quiet .
The amount of motor traffic is down by around 90 % and that being the case the roads are much safer .
The one thing we 've learnt over the years , those who are not experienced cyclists are not going to get on the road on a bicycle unless it looks and feels safe . ''
The increase in cycling can be seen in retail sales .
Although it is too early for industry-wide figures , Halfords , which sells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK , says it has seen sales soar .
Keith Jones , the chain 's chief operating officer , said : `` We 've seen significant growth in sales through the cycle-to-work scheme - perhaps not surprising as consumers look for alternatives to public transport .
We 've seen increases in sales to women and to small children , suggesting families are cycling for leisure and exercise . ''
Temple Cycles in Bristol is an independent bike maker which also has a store in London .
Its founder Matthew Mears says he 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sales since lockdown began .
`` Normally this is a busy time of year anyway - spring time - so we 'd expect growth .
But we are seeing a 30 to 40 % increase , '' he told Sky News .
`` I think people are realising how fun cycling is - they 're using it to get around for their leisure .
Lots of people are working from home or are furloughed and want something to do .
The weather is really nice - great for cycling - and less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closing off their streets , so it just makes the environment for cycling really nice . ''
The boom comes after the government revealed a £250m emergency active travel fund for cycling and walking initiatives , such as pop-up bike lanes , wider pavements and safer junctions .
The money is the first part of a £5bn package announced in February .
But as the lockdown continues to ease , and with more cars returning to the road , there is a worry those newly taking up riding could be put off again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cycling and walking package needs to be implemented `` very , very quick '' .
`` If in fact it takes months to do it , all those people who felt good and liked cycling are not going to enjoy that . ''
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

The UK's bicycle industry says it has seen an "enormous" increase in the use and sale of bikes during the coronavirus lockdown.
National and local retailers in the UK say they have seen a rise in orders both for leisure and from those looking for a new, more isolated way to commute.
Chair of the Bicycle Association Phillip Darnton told Sky News the rise started shortly after the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions came into force in late March.
Image: Cycling store owners say they think people are realising how fun cycling is now that they have more time on their hands
"There's been an enormous increase in the use and sales of bicycles - particularly from the middle of April," he said.
"The streets themselves have become very quiet. The amount of motor traffic is down by around 90% and that being the case the roads are much safer. The one thing we've learnt over the years, those who are not experienced cyclists are not going to get on the road on a bicycle unless it looks and feels safe."
The increase in cycling can be seen in retail sales.
Although it is too early for industry-wide figures, Halfords, which sells around a quarter of bicycles in the UK, says it has seen sales soar.
Keith Jones, the chain's chief operating officer, said: "We've seen significant growth in sales through the cycle-to-work scheme - perhaps not surprising as consumers look for alternatives to public transport. We've seen increases in sales to women and to small children, suggesting families are cycling for leisure and exercise."
Temple Cycles in Bristol is an independent bike maker which also has a store in London.
Advertisement
Image: Temple Cycles founder Matthew Mears said he's seen a big spike in online traffic and sales
Its founder Matthew Mears says he's seen a big spike in online traffic and sales since lockdown began.
"Normally this is a busy time of year anyway - spring time - so we'd expect growth. But we are seeing a 30 to 40% increase," he told Sky News.
Image: The government revealed a £250m emergency active travel fund for cycling and walking initiatives
"I think people are realising how fun cycling is - they're using it to get around for their leisure. Lots of people are working from home or are furloughed and want something to do. The weather is really nice - great for cycling - and less cars on roads, lots of cities closing off their streets, so it just makes the environment for cycling really nice."
The boom comes after the government revealed a £250m emergency active travel fund for cycling and walking initiatives, such as pop-up bike lanes, wider pavements and safer junctions.
The money is the first part of a £5bn package announced in February.
But as the lockdown continues to ease, and with more cars returning to the road, there is a worry those newly taking up riding could be put off again.
Image: Some retailers have seen sales increase by up to 40%
Mr Darnton said he thinks the cycling and walking package needs to be implemented "very, very quick".
"If in fact it takes months to do it, all those people who felt good and liked cycling are not going to enjoy that."
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk