news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Govt hasn't run ads on pandemic from official social media accounts

The government has not run a single advert about the coronavirus pandemic from its official Facebook or Instagram accounts , Sky News can reveal .
This is despite the fact that the UK has been offered `` millions '' in free ad credits to use on two of the world 's largest digital advertising platforms .
The government has also not run ads through other popular official accounts , despite taking a series of unprecedented steps to safeguard the public and the economy during the crisis .
Neither the official UK Prime Minister account nor Boris Johnson 's personal account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any of the measures introduced to delay its spread , data released by Facebook shows .
The official NHS account has run six ads on Facebook and Instagram since the start of the pandemic , advising anyone with symptoms to stay at home for 14 days .
The messages , which were last updated on 19 March , do not mention more stringent government guidelines announced since that time , such as social distancing or self-isolation measures for vulnerable individuals .
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced earlier this month that he would give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` as many free ads as they need '' - and promised `` millions more in ad credits to other organisations '' during the coronavirus crisis .
A Facebook spokesperson confirmed to Sky News that the NHS and UK government were among these organisations .
The news follows criticism of government communications after a weekend in which many people failed to follow - or clearly understand - the UK guidelines about social distancing .
Digital ad experts have said they are puzzled by the lack of a clear government response in the face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of new information the public has needed to take on board in order to stay safe during the outbreak .
`` I 'm sure everyone in government is working flat out right now , but even so I find this hard to understand , '' said Carl Miller , co-founder of the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media .
`` We know that people with vulnerability to coronavirus are massively different , as are the messages that people need to hear .
`` Targeted ads should be on the front lines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Who Targets Me , said targeting messages at specific groups would be especially effective given the amount of time people are currently spending online .
`` You can produce simple messages quickly and you can get them online and in front of millions within hours , '' he told Sky News .
`` It 's therefore surprising that a government that was so relentless and disciplined around its Brexit messaging is currently missing the 'public ' part of this extreme public health emergency . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker A government spokesperson told Sky News : `` The government is using all available channels , including Facebook and Instagram adverts to provide the public with the information it needs to fulfil its crucial role in delaying the spread of coronavirus .
`` The response to our adverts has generated a huge amount of organic reach through our cross-government social media approach .
`` This is in addition to the NHS messaging , which has been our priority so far . ''
The ads run from the UK government account since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS and warn about the dangers of disinformation online , without specifically mentioning COVID-19 .
According to the Facebook Ad Library , which provides information on ads run on Facebook and Instagram , these ads have had £11,603 of public money spent on them in the last seven days .
The government launched a UK-wide coronavirus public information campaign in early February .
Based on the `` Catch it , Bin it , Kill it '' campaign used for flu and norovirus , it promised to `` promote important hygiene practices , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sneezing into a tissue , to stem the spread of viruses '' .
In the lead-up to a potential no-deal exit from the European Union on 31 October , the government spent £46m on hundreds of digital and physical ads warning businesses and individuals to prepare themselves .
The campaign , which was described as one of the biggest advertising campaigns since World War II , was criticised by the government spending watchdog , the National Audit Office , for failing to inform the public .

The government has not run a single advert about the coronavirus pandemic from its official Facebook or Instagram accounts, Sky News can reveal.
This is despite the fact that the UK has been offered "millions" in free ad credits to use on two of the world's largest digital advertising platforms.
The government has also not run ads through other popular official accounts, despite taking a series of unprecedented steps to safeguard the public and the economy during the crisis.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 Coronavirus advice to be aired in TV adverts
Neither the official UK Prime Minister account nor Boris Johnson's personal account have run ads mentioning coronavirus, or any of the measures introduced to delay its spread, data released by Facebook shows.
The official NHS account has run six ads on Facebook and Instagram since the start of the pandemic, advising anyone with symptoms to stay at home for 14 days.
The messages, which were last updated on 19 March, do not mention more stringent government guidelines announced since that time, such as social distancing or self-isolation measures for vulnerable individuals.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced earlier this month that he would give the World Health Organisation (WHO) "as many free ads as they need" - and promised "millions more in ad credits to other organisations" during the coronavirus crisis.
A Facebook spokesperson confirmed to Sky News that the NHS and UK government were among these organisations.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:16 The misinformation outbreak
The news follows criticism of government communications after a weekend in which many people failed to follow - or clearly understand - the UK guidelines about social distancing.
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Digital ad experts have said they are puzzled by the lack of a clear government response in the face of this confusion, especially given the amount of new information the public has needed to take on board in order to stay safe during the outbreak.
"I'm sure everyone in government is working flat out right now, but even so I find this hard to understand," said Carl Miller, co-founder of the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media.
"We know that people with vulnerability to coronavirus are massively different, as are the messages that people need to hear.
"Targeted ads should be on the front lines."
Sam Jeffers, founder of Who Targets Me, said targeting messages at specific groups would be especially effective given the amount of time people are currently spending online.
"You can produce simple messages quickly and you can get them online and in front of millions within hours," he told Sky News.
"It's therefore surprising that a government that was so relentless and disciplined around its Brexit messaging is currently missing the 'public' part of this extreme public health emergency."
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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A government spokesperson told Sky News: "The government is using all available channels, including Facebook and Instagram adverts to provide the public with the information it needs to fulfil its crucial role in delaying the spread of coronavirus.
"The response to our adverts has generated a huge amount of organic reach through our cross-government social media approach.
"This is in addition to the NHS messaging, which has been our priority so far."
The ads run from the UK government account since the start of February promote careers in the NHS and warn about the dangers of disinformation online, without specifically mentioning COVID-19.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:31 Russia's misinformation spread of COVID-19
According to the Facebook Ad Library, which provides information on ads run on Facebook and Instagram, these ads have had £11,603 of public money spent on them in the last seven days.
The government launched a UK-wide coronavirus public information campaign in early February.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 How to practise social distancing
Based on the "Catch it, Bin it, Kill it" campaign used for flu and norovirus, it promised to "promote important hygiene practices, such as regularly washing hands and always sneezing into a tissue, to stem the spread of viruses".
In the lead-up to a potential no-deal exit from the European Union on 31 October, the government spent £46m on hundreds of digital and physical ads warning businesses and individuals to prepare themselves.
The campaign, which was described as one of the biggest advertising campaigns since World War II, was criticised by the government spending watchdog, the National Audit Office, for failing to inform the public.


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Jury trials halted in England and Wales

All jury trials in England and Wales have been put on hold to halt the spread of the coronavirus outbreak .
Courts have been told to use `` considerable imagination and flexibility '' to work up plans during the coronavirus pandemic for every person to be two metres apart from each other before trials can begin again .
Lord Burnett , head of the judiciary in England and Wales , said social distancing is a `` particular concern '' to address as the government prepares to rush through emergency laws to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic .
So far , 281 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5,683 people have tested positive for the virus , according to the Department of Health .
As all sectors of society prepare for upheaval , Lord Burnett announced no new jury trials will start until a judge rules it is safe to do so .
Jurors summoned for duty on Monday will be told to remain at home and contact the court they are due to attend .
They will only be asked to come in for trials where specific arrangements to ensure safety have been put in place .
Some will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Monday afternoon and any hearings that can lawfully take place remotely will be .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
In magistrates ' courts , Lord Burnett said `` all hearings that can lawfully take place remotely should do so if the facilities exist '' .
And in civil and family courts , hearings should be held remotely and any in-person ones should only go ahead if `` suitable arrangements can be made to ensure safety '' .
Susan Acland-Hood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Her Majesty 's Courts and Tribunals Service ) , has said at the weekend that jurors were on the government 's list of key workers .
But a number of members of the legal profession have said the courts should not keep running amid the crisis .
`` And , for the moment , the assembly of groups of people should be stopped because people are dying .
`` That is n't a value comparison between justice and death .
It 's a pause .
To take stock .
To work out what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who works with legal charity Just for Kids Law , said on Twitter that `` closing courts is a public health imperative '' .

All jury trials in England and Wales have been put on hold to halt the spread of the coronavirus outbreak.
Courts have been told to use "considerable imagination and flexibility" to work up plans during the coronavirus pandemic for every person to be two metres apart from each other before trials can begin again.
Lord Burnett, head of the judiciary in England and Wales, said social distancing is a "particular concern" to address as the government prepares to rush through emergency laws to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:50 'We will use tougher measures if necessary'
So far, 281 people who had coronavirus have died and 5,683 people have tested positive for the virus, according to the Department of Health.
As all sectors of society prepare for upheaval, Lord Burnett announced no new jury trials will start until a judge rules it is safe to do so.
Jurors summoned for duty on Monday will be told to remain at home and contact the court they are due to attend.
They will only be asked to come in for trials where specific arrangements to ensure safety have been put in place.
Some will be put on new trials starting as soon as Monday afternoon and any hearings that can lawfully take place remotely will be.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
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In magistrates' courts, Lord Burnett said "all hearings that can lawfully take place remotely should do so if the facilities exist".
And in civil and family courts, hearings should be held remotely and any in-person ones should only go ahead if "suitable arrangements can be made to ensure safety".
Image: HMCTS chief executive Susan Acland-Hood said jurors are key workers
Susan Acland-Hood, chief executive officer of HMCTS (Her Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service), has said at the weekend that jurors were on the government's list of key workers.
But a number of members of the legal profession have said the courts should not keep running amid the crisis.
Image: The public is being told to socially distance
Joanna Hardy, a criminal barrister at Red Lion Chambers, tweeted: "Put simply - jury trials involve people coming to court.
"And, for the moment, the assembly of groups of people should be stopped because people are dying.
"That isn't a value comparison between justice and death. It's a pause. To take stock. To work out what we do next."
Augusta Itua, who works with legal charity Just for Kids Law, said on Twitter that "closing courts is a public health imperative".


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Warnings issued as thousands 'recklessly' ignore social distancing advice

Warnings of a tough crackdown have been issued against those ignoring advice to stay at home amid the coronavirus outbreak .
The Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford urged people not to ignore advice from medical experts and told people to refrain from non-essential travel in order to slow the spread of COVID-19 .
Local authority leaders and tourism bosses have told people to stay away from popular holiday destinations in west Wales .
Police and crime commissioner Dafydd Llewelyn called for `` lockdowns '' in rural parts of Wales to stop self-isolationists and tourists flooding in .
He said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a national holiday '' .
The leaders of Ceredigion , Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire councils urged tourists to stop visiting .
They said : `` One major concern that we are starting to witness is an influx of tourists into west Wales and the consequences this may have in the coming weeks and especially the serious risk that there will be an overwhelming , unnecessary pressure on our services and supply chains . ''
The British Holiday and Home Parks Association told members who own and manage some 2,900 holiday and touring parks around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all holidaymakers .
Its advice included all touring guests with caravans , motorhomes and tents , as well as those who rent self-catering accommodation .
The association added : `` Whilst we acknowledge that a complete closure of all holiday parks would be desirable , doing so would - in some instances - result in actions contrary to the advice of government .
`` Where the owners of holiday caravans have self-isolated and are presently in situ on the holiday park , requiring them to return home , often a considerable distance away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are all being asked to avoid in order to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus and may send them back to the very risk they have isolated from . ''
Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon declared Scotland 's islands a no-go zone for visitors and said ferry companies had been told not to take non-essential travellers .
She also criticised the `` tiny minority '' of bars that have stayed open , saying : `` Let me be blunt - in doing so they put lives at risk .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We will have emergency powers in days to force you to close and we will use these powers if we have to . ''
Elsewhere , Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing pressure to order a widespread lockdown , with thousands ignoring `` social distancing '' advice .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker There was anger among MPs as crowds were seen flocking to parks , markets and beaches around the UK over the weekend .
Julian Smith , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Many people have recklessly ignored government advice this weekend .
`` I will support any measure the government needs to force people to follow the guidelines designed to protect NHS staff and UK citizens ' lives . ''
Labour 's Jonathan Ashworth urged the government to make `` immediate preparations for the next stage '' and `` learn lessons from other European nations '' .
The government later issued updated guidance which said essential travel did not include visits to `` second homes , camp sites , caravan parks or similar , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Speaking at his daily coronavirus news conference , Mr Johnson warned that the NHS could become `` overwhelmed '' in the same way Italy 's healthcare system has , with the country the epicentre of the outbreak in Europe .
He said `` further measures '' may be necessary to prevent the spread of coronavirus if people did not stay two metres apart - including in the open air .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker However , Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going outside for a walk or to exercise because of the physical and mental health benefits , given people followed the social distancing guidelines .
The total number of virus-related deaths in the UK now stands at 281 , with 5,683 confirmed cases of COVID-19 .

Warnings of a tough crackdown have been issued against those ignoring advice to stay at home amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford urged people not to ignore advice from medical experts and told people to refrain from non-essential travel in order to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Local authority leaders and tourism bosses have told people to stay away from popular holiday destinations in west Wales.
Police and crime commissioner Dafydd Llewelyn called for "lockdowns" in rural parts of Wales to stop self-isolationists and tourists flooding in.
He said it was a "national emergency, not a national holiday".
The leaders of Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire councils urged tourists to stop visiting.
They said: "One major concern that we are starting to witness is an influx of tourists into west Wales and the consequences this may have in the coming weeks and especially the serious risk that there will be an overwhelming, unnecessary pressure on our services and supply chains."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:55 An in-depth look at UK coronavirus deaths
The British Holiday and Home Parks Association told members who own and manage some 2,900 holiday and touring parks around the UK to close their parks to all holidaymakers.
Its advice included all touring guests with caravans, motorhomes and tents, as well as those who rent self-catering accommodation.
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The association added: "Whilst we acknowledge that a complete closure of all holiday parks would be desirable, doing so would - in some instances - result in actions contrary to the advice of government.
"Where the owners of holiday caravans have self-isolated and are presently in situ on the holiday park, requiring them to return home, often a considerable distance away, would necessitate journeys of the type we are all being asked to avoid in order to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus and may send them back to the very risk they have isolated from."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:10 Rural villages overrun by city dwellers
Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon declared Scotland's islands a no-go zone for visitors and said ferry companies had been told not to take non-essential travellers.
She also criticised the "tiny minority" of bars that have stayed open, saying: "Let me be blunt - in doing so they put lives at risk.
"My message to them is close now. We will have emergency powers in days to force you to close and we will use these powers if we have to."
Elsewhere, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing pressure to order a widespread lockdown, with thousands ignoring "social distancing" advice.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
There was anger among MPs as crowds were seen flocking to parks, markets and beaches around the UK over the weekend.
Julian Smith, the former Northern Ireland secretary, said: "Many people have recklessly ignored government advice this weekend.
Image: Runners and cyclists in Richmond Park
"I will support any measure the government needs to force people to follow the guidelines designed to protect NHS staff and UK citizens' lives."
Labour's Jonathan Ashworth urged the government to make "immediate preparations for the next stage" and "learn lessons from other European nations".
The government later issued updated guidance which said essential travel did not include visits to "second homes, camp sites, caravan parks or similar, whether for isolation purposes or holidays".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:52 Italian mayor's warning to Britain over COVID-19
Speaking at his daily coronavirus news conference, Mr Johnson warned that the NHS could become "overwhelmed" in the same way Italy's healthcare system has, with the country the epicentre of the outbreak in Europe.
He said "further measures" may be necessary to prevent the spread of coronavirus if people did not stay two metres apart - including in the open air.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
However, Mr Johnson was reluctant to completely ban people from going outside for a walk or to exercise because of the physical and mental health benefits, given people followed the social distancing guidelines.
The total number of virus-related deaths in the UK now stands at 281, with 5,683 confirmed cases of COVID-19.


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: Ireland put in lockdown as Varadkar asks nation to 'forego freedoms'

Ireland has been put under similar lockdown measures to the UK following three more coronavirus-related deaths .
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said residents should stay home until at least 12 April unless they are buying groceries , attending medical appointments or collecting medication , getting brief exercise or making essential family visits .
Almost all shops have been told to close and all gatherings outside of families have been banned .
Public transport will be available only to essential workers and nobody should travel beyond 2km ( 1.2 miles ) from their homes for any reason , he added .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidance referred to exercising locally , and that people can go further to buy food and medicines .
Those over the age of 70 or with chronic diseases have been told to stay in their homes without exception over the period , which begins at midnight .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Varadkar said : `` Freedom was hard won in our country , and it jars with us , to restrict and limit individual liberties , even temporarily .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We give it meaning every single day - in the way we live our lives - and in the decisions we take willingly to protect our loved ones .
`` So I am asking people to give meaning to our freedom and liberty by agreeing to these restrictions .
Restricting how we live our lives so that so that others may live .
`` I am asking us for a time , to forego our personal liberties and freedoms for a greater cause .
`` Tonight I am appealing to every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country to make these sacrifices - not out of self-interest but for each other .
`` To begin each day knowing that every single imposition , every inconvenience , every irritation will save lives and help our health service cope .
`` The whole world is suffering during this pandemic , and Ireland is no different .
`` What happens now is up to each one of us . ''
The measures come after three more deaths thought to be as a result of COVID-19 , the respiratory illness caused by coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ worker .
But Ireland 's health minister has said he hopes they will be in a position to `` tweak '' or even `` remove '' some of the tough lockdown rules if they can slow down the rate of admission to intensive care units .
`` Will we be in a position on 12 April where life in Ireland can return to normal ?
Absolutely not '' , said Simon Harris .
`` Let 's be honest with each other , these are measures that we are going to need continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broadcaster RTE on Saturday .
But he added : `` Do we hope to be in a position in two weeks ' time to say that we 've made progress and some of the measures can be tweaked , removed , changed ?
Absolutely .
`` The measures that we put in place last night were so significant that they can not be kept in place for too long .
You can not ask people to sustain this for a very long time . ''
According to data compiled by US university Johns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ireland , with 22 deaths recorded .
Schools had already been closed , along with universities , pubs and most non-essential shops but , despite this , Mr Varadkar has previously warned that the country 's intensive care units would be at capacity within a few days .
Ireland 's chief medical officer , Tony Holohan , said the earlier rules were working and that the number of new cases was slowing .
However , he added that this did not mean that the worst was over .
`` We think we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this is helping , but we think we need to go further , '' he said .
`` We think in the early course of this infection , with the support that we have had from the public , that with these additional strengthening measures , we can drive the infection back out of the community and more into households . ''
Sky 's senior Ireland correspondent David Blevins said : `` Leo Varadkar chose his words carefully , acknowledging the value Ireland places on its freedom and asking the population to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It is difficult , if not impossible , to remember any previous taoiseach making a statement of such significance .
In the space of 10 days , he has made what many would consider to be the two most defining addresses of his political career .
`` It is also worth noting that he made them as caretaker taoiseach because the Irish parliament has not yet reached agreement on the formation of a coalition government following the election at the beginning of February . ''

Ireland has been put under similar lockdown measures to the UK following three more coronavirus-related deaths.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said residents should stay home until at least 12 April unless they are buying groceries, attending medical appointments or collecting medication, getting brief exercise or making essential family visits.
Almost all shops have been told to close and all gatherings outside of families have been banned.
Image: Leo Varadkar appealed to those in Ireland to make sacrifices to help each other
Public transport will be available only to essential workers and nobody should travel beyond 2km (1.2 miles) from their homes for any reason, he added.
But Mr Varadkar later tweeted that the 2km guidance referred to exercising locally, and that people can go further to buy food and medicines.
Those over the age of 70 or with chronic diseases have been told to stay in their homes without exception over the period, which begins at midnight.
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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Mr Varadkar said: "Freedom was hard won in our country, and it jars with us, to restrict and limit individual liberties, even temporarily. But freedom is not an abstract concept.
"We give it meaning every single day - in the way we live our lives - and in the decisions we take willingly to protect our loved ones.
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"So I am asking people to give meaning to our freedom and liberty by agreeing to these restrictions. Restricting how we live our lives so that so that others may live.
"I am asking us for a time, to forego our personal liberties and freedoms for a greater cause.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 Some 15% of Spain's healthcare workers have been infected by COVID-19
"Tonight I am appealing to every man, woman and child in our country to make these sacrifices - not out of self-interest but for each other.
"To begin each day knowing that every single imposition, every inconvenience, every irritation will save lives and help our health service cope.
"The whole world is suffering during this pandemic, and Ireland is no different.
"What happens now is up to each one of us."
The measures come after three more deaths thought to be as a result of COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by coronavirus. One of the victims was a healthcare worker.
But Ireland's health minister has said he hopes they will be in a position to "tweak" or even "remove" some of the tough lockdown rules if they can slow down the rate of admission to intensive care units.
"Will we be in a position on 12 April where life in Ireland can return to normal? Absolutely not", said Simon Harris.
"Let's be honest with each other, these are measures that we are going to need continue to work at", he told national broadcaster RTE on Saturday.
But he added: "Do we hope to be in a position in two weeks' time to say that we've made progress and some of the measures can be tweaked, removed, changed? Absolutely.
"The measures that we put in place last night were so significant that they cannot be kept in place for too long.
You cannot ask people to sustain this for a very long time."
According to data compiled by US university Johns Hopkins, there are 2,121 coronavirus cases in Ireland, with 22 deaths recorded.
Schools had already been closed, along with universities, pubs and most non-essential shops but, despite this, Mr Varadkar has previously warned that the country's intensive care units would be at capacity within a few days.
Ireland's chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, said the earlier rules were working and that the number of new cases was slowing. However, he added that this did not mean that the worst was over.
"We think we see signs that are encouraging us, that this is helping, but we think we need to go further," he said.
"We think in the early course of this infection, with the support that we have had from the public, that with these additional strengthening measures, we can drive the infection back out of the community and more into households."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 Pope prays in empty St Peter's Square
Sky's senior Ireland correspondent David Blevins said: "Leo Varadkar chose his words carefully, acknowledging the value Ireland places on its freedom and asking the population to give that freedom meaning by saving lives.
"It is difficult, if not impossible, to remember any previous taoiseach making a statement of such significance. In the space of 10 days, he has made what many would consider to be the two most defining addresses of his political career.
"It is also worth noting that he made them as caretaker taoiseach because the Irish parliament has not yet reached agreement on the formation of a coalition government following the election at the beginning of February."


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: Lib Dems push back leadership contest to 2021

The Liberal Democrats have postponed the election of their new leader so the party can focus on the `` fallout '' from the coronavirus crisis .
Party members had been due to choose a replacement for Jo Swinson , who lost her Parliamentary seat in the 2019 general election , by the summer .
But the party 's governing body has instead decided to push the vote back to May 2021 .
It means that , by next May , interim co-leaders Sir Ed Davey MP and party president Mark Pack will have lead the party for 17 months - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's leadership tenure .
In a statement on the Lib Dem 's website , Mr Pack said the coronavirus was the UK 's biggest crisis since the Second World War .
`` We know that coronavirus will have many implications for our society , public services , economy and day-to-day lives , '' he said .
`` But we 're also entering a very new world that will persist once the immediate crisis is over . ''
Mr Pack also warned of the possibility of future lockdowns in the UK , even when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` That risk will hang over us all until we have a vaccine or effective and widespread treatment . ''
Nominations were originally meant to open in May this year , with voting amongst Lib Dem members taking place in June and July .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ms Swinson was elected as leader of the pro-European party in July 2019 , having fought off Sir Ed for the position .
She became the Lib Dem 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , Ms Swinson led her party to a poor performance in the election , and even lost her own East Dunbartonshire seat by 149 votes to the SNP 's Amy Callaghan , forcing her to resign as party leader .
So far , only two of the Lib Dem 's 11 MPs have officially announced a leadership bid .
MP for Oxford West and Abingdon Layla Moran revealed her ambitions for the top job on Sky 's Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme in early March .
Ms Moran has said on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` move on and create a positive vision for the future '' when the COVID-19 crisis is over .
Bath MP Wera Hobhouse is also in the running to take over the party .
MPs Christine Jardine and Daisy Cooper are rumoured be considering leadership bids .

The Liberal Democrats have postponed the election of their new leader so the party can focus on the "fallout" from the coronavirus crisis.
Party members had been due to choose a replacement for Jo Swinson, who lost her Parliamentary seat in the 2019 general election, by the summer.
But the party's governing body has instead decided to push the vote back to May 2021.
It means that, by next May, interim co-leaders Sir Ed Davey MP and party president Mark Pack will have lead the party for 17 months - three times the length of Ms Swinson's leadership tenure.
Image: Sir Ed Davey MP is interim co-leader of the Liberal Democrats
In a statement on the Lib Dem's website, Mr Pack said the coronavirus was the UK's biggest crisis since the Second World War.
"We know that coronavirus will have many implications for our society, public services, economy and day-to-day lives," he said.
"But we're also entering a very new world that will persist once the immediate crisis is over."
Image: Jo Swinson lost her seat in the election
Mr Pack also warned of the possibility of future lockdowns in the UK, even when the current restrictions come to an end: "That risk will hang over us all until we have a vaccine or effective and widespread treatment."
Nominations were originally meant to open in May this year, with voting amongst Lib Dem members taking place in June and July.
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Ms Swinson was elected as leader of the pro-European party in July 2019, having fought off Sir Ed for the position. She became the Lib Dem's youngest and first ever female leader.
However, Ms Swinson led her party to a poor performance in the election, and even lost her own East Dunbartonshire seat by 149 votes to the SNP's Amy Callaghan, forcing her to resign as party leader.
So far, only two of the Lib Dem's 11 MPs have officially announced a leadership bid.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:34 Layla Moran: I will run for Lib Dem party leader
MP for Oxford West and Abingdon Layla Moran revealed her ambitions for the top job on Sky's Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme in early March.
Ms Moran has said on Twitter that the Liberal Democrats will need to "move on and create a positive vision for the future" when the COVID-19 crisis is over.
Bath MP Wera Hobhouse is also in the running to take over the party.
MPs Christine Jardine and Daisy Cooper are rumoured be considering leadership bids.


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: Gatwick to close north terminal as flights dwindle

London 's second-busiest airport is to close one of its two terminals after a slump in flights triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic .
Sky News has learnt that Gatwick Airport has decided to temporarily shut its north terminal - used by carriers including easyJet - from the end of the month .
The decision , which is expected to be announced later on Friday , stops short of a full closure of Gatwick , although that option is understood to be being kept on the table as repatriation flights come to an end .
London City Airport has already announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Heathrow and Stansted , as well as numerous regional airports , have seen catastrophic falls in passenger volumes since the coronavirus outbreak .
Airport operators are in talks with the government about a rescue package as their revenues crash to their lowest-ever levels .
Rishi Sunak , the chancellor , wrote to aviation bosses this week to tell them that a `` bespoke '' support package might be available to individual companies once private sources of capital have been exhausted .
: : Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority-owned by VINCI , the largest private airport operator in the world .
It serves 46m passengers each year , flying to 230 destinations in more than 70 countries .
Last week , Gatwick announced that Stewart Wingate , its chief executive , and his executive team would take a 20 % salary cut and waive any bonus for the current financial year .
It also said it was axing 200 staff employed on temporary fixed-term contracts and contractors .
Further cost-cutting measures are expected in the coming weeks .
`` Gatwick is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has changed dramatically in recent weeks and we have been forced to take rapid , decisive action to ensure that the airport is in a strong position to recover from a significant fall in passenger numbers , '' Mr Wingate said last week .

London's second-busiest airport is to close one of its two terminals after a slump in flights triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sky News has learnt that Gatwick Airport has decided to temporarily shut its north terminal - used by carriers including easyJet - from the end of the month.
The decision, which is expected to be announced later on Friday, stops short of a full closure of Gatwick, although that option is understood to be being kept on the table as repatriation flights come to an end.
Image: An eerily quiet Gatwick airport is pictured as flights reduced to a trickle this week
London City Airport has already announced its closure for several weeks, while Heathrow and Stansted, as well as numerous regional airports, have seen catastrophic falls in passenger volumes since the coronavirus outbreak.
Airport operators are in talks with the government about a rescue package as their revenues crash to their lowest-ever levels.
Rishi Sunak, the chancellor, wrote to aviation bosses this week to tell them that a "bespoke" support package might be available to individual companies once private sources of capital have been exhausted.
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Gatwick is majority-owned by VINCI, the largest private airport operator in the world.
It serves 46m passengers each year, flying to 230 destinations in more than 70 countries.
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Last week, Gatwick announced that Stewart Wingate, its chief executive, and his executive team would take a 20% salary cut and waive any bonus for the current financial year.
It also said it was axing 200 staff employed on temporary fixed-term contracts and contractors.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 UK lockdown '10 days too late'
Further cost-cutting measures are expected in the coming weeks.
"Gatwick is a resilient business, but the world has changed dramatically in recent weeks and we have been forced to take rapid, decisive action to ensure that the airport is in a strong position to recover from a significant fall in passenger numbers," Mr Wingate said last week.
A Gatwick spokesman declined to comment.


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: Tesco steps up measures to avert virus stockpiling

Tesco is limiting new online shopping orders to 80 items following a surge in order sizes as households fill their fridges , freezers and cupboards amid the coronavirus lockdown .
The UK 's biggest retailer said the restriction would also allow its expanded delivery operation to serve more customers , especially the vulnerable , as the grocery sector battles high demand while keeping staff and customers safe at the same time .
The chain said a typical online shopping basket ahead of the COVID-19 crisis would have averaged around 60 items but many , more recently , were totalling over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We know that it 's difficult to get a delivery slot for online shopping at the moment due to high demand , and we ask those who are able to safely come to stores to do so , instead of shopping online , so that we can start to free up more slots for the more vulnerable .
`` We 're looking at every opportunity to increase the number of slots available and by introducing a limit of 80 items per online order we 'll be able to get more orders onto each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customers can get the essentials they need . ''
It made the announcement as the major supermarket chains make use of government data to help get deliveries to those most at risk from COVID-19 .
An Asda spokesman said : `` We have a dedicated team who will work with government on the available data to support as many extremely vulnerable people as we can - whilst also continuing to ensure our stores are stocked and our deliveries are moving for millions of customers nationwide . ''
Grocers have been on a hiring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery staff .
The Co-op , which announced the creation of 5,000 jobs last week , said it had seen an `` unprecedented '' response with every position filled .
The chain expected it expected every recruit to be working by the weekend .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Its chief executive , Jo Whitfield , said : `` Just one week ago we asked members of the British public who needed jobs to come forward and join forces with us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as people pull together to feed the nation .
All of our colleagues are heroes and are doing an amazing job under huge pressure . ''

Tesco is limiting new online shopping orders to 80 items following a surge in order sizes as households fill their fridges, freezers and cupboards amid the coronavirus lockdown.
The UK's biggest retailer said the restriction would also allow its expanded delivery operation to serve more customers, especially the vulnerable, as the grocery sector battles high demand while keeping staff and customers safe at the same time.
The chain said a typical online shopping basket ahead of the COVID-19 crisis would have averaged around 60 items but many, more recently, were totalling over 100.
Image: A queue outside Tesco in New Malden, southwest London. Pic: Peter Macdiarmid/LNP
A spokesperson said: "We know that it's difficult to get a delivery slot for online shopping at the moment due to high demand, and we ask those who are able to safely come to stores to do so, instead of shopping online, so that we can start to free up more slots for the more vulnerable.
"We're looking at every opportunity to increase the number of slots available and by introducing a limit of 80 items per online order we'll be able to get more orders onto each van, helping us to ensure all customers can get the essentials they need."
It made the announcement as the major supermarket chains make use of government data to help get deliveries to those most at risk from COVID-19.
An Asda spokesman said: "We have a dedicated team who will work with government on the available data to support as many extremely vulnerable people as we can - whilst also continuing to ensure our stores are stocked and our deliveries are moving for millions of customers nationwide."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:56 Chancellor announces help for self-employed
Grocers have been on a hiring spree to bolster warehouse, store and delivery staff.
The Co-op, which announced the creation of 5,000 jobs last week, said it had seen an "unprecedented" response with every position filled.
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The chain expected it expected every recruit to be working by the weekend.
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Its chief executive, Jo Whitfield, said: "Just one week ago we asked members of the British public who needed jobs to come forward and join forces with us.
"The response has been overwhelming as people pull together to feed the nation. All of our colleagues are heroes and are doing an amazing job under huge pressure."


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus lockdown: Government updates guidance for exercising outdoors - telling people to 'stay

Coronavirus lockdown: Government updates guidance for exercising outdoors - telling people to 'stay local'

Anyone exercising outside their home should `` stay local '' and `` not travel unnecessarily '' , according to updated government guidance .
Members of the public have been criticised for flooding green spaces and beauty spots amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Last weekend , Snowdonia National Park said it had experienced its `` busiest visitor day in living memory '' , while many also headed to second homes and campervans in the Scottish Highlands .
The Lake District , West Wittering beach in Chichester and Cornwall also reported higher visitor numbers .
Derbyshire Police have defended using drones to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by walking in the Peak District .
The force filmed people in pairs rambling in Curbar Edge on Wednesday , saying going to remote areas for exercise did not count as `` essential travel '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Meanwhile , officers from Avon and Somerset Police have been conducting random vehicle checks in Bristol to ensure only essential journeys are being made during the crisis .
But Superintendent Steve Pont told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ message of stay home and a number of people are n't staying home , they 're finding excuses or loopholes , reasons not to stay home - and we just wanted to illustrate that this is the wrong thing to do . ''
He said officers are `` here to apply the law that the government makes '' .
`` The point is that the government legislation said if you go out to take exercise , you should make your time away from home as short as possible , it did n't say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go for a drive in the Peak District . ''
It comes as new powers were announced on Thursday to allow police to enforce lockdown rules brought in to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic .
Police can also take steps to make sure parents are stopping their children from breaking the rules .
The rules will be in place for an emergency period which must be reviewed at least once every 21 days , starting on 16 April .

Anyone exercising outside their home should "stay local" and "not travel unnecessarily", according to updated government guidance.
Members of the public have been criticised for flooding green spaces and beauty spots amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Last weekend, Snowdonia National Park said it had experienced its "busiest visitor day in living memory", while many also headed to second homes and campervans in the Scottish Highlands.
Image: Avon and Somerset Police officers chat to people in a park in Bristol
The Lake District, West Wittering beach in Chichester and Cornwall also reported higher visitor numbers.
Derbyshire Police have defended using drones to deter people from flouting coronavirus lockdown rules by walking in the Peak District.
The force filmed people in pairs rambling in Curbar Edge on Wednesday, saying going to remote areas for exercise did not count as "essential travel".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Meanwhile, officers from Avon and Somerset Police have been conducting random vehicle checks in Bristol to ensure only essential journeys are being made during the crisis.
Civil liberties group Big Brother Watch branded the drone move "sinister" and "counter-productive".
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But Superintendent Steve Pont told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "We wanted to reinforce the message of stay home and a number of people aren't staying home, they're finding excuses or loopholes, reasons not to stay home - and we just wanted to illustrate that this is the wrong thing to do."
Image: Police are stopping motorists
He said officers are "here to apply the law that the government makes".
"The point is that the government legislation said if you go out to take exercise, you should make your time away from home as short as possible, it didn't say as short as possible unless you want to go for a drive in the Peak District."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:27 Derbyshire Police use drone to catch hikers
It comes as new powers were announced on Thursday to allow police to enforce lockdown rules brought in to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.
Police can also take steps to make sure parents are stopping their children from breaking the rules.
The rules will be in place for an emergency period which must be reviewed at least once every 21 days, starting on 16 April.


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: Ban funerals during COVID-19 pandemic, says funeral adviser

The government should ban funerals during the coronavirus pandemic because a `` lack of clear instruction '' is causing `` anguish and suffering beyond imagination '' , the Good Funeral Guide has said .
Fran Hall , director and chief executive of the not-for-profit organisation , which offers funeral advice , said allowing the ceremonies to continue was putting the health of bereaved people at risk .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced lockdown measures earlier this week to tackle the UK 's outbreak of COVID-19 .
The measures prohibited all social events , including weddings and baptisms , but allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to consider restricting attendance at funerals to `` close family members '' .
Ms Hall said `` confusion '' over how the ceremonies are held is `` breaking people 's hearts '' .
`` With the heaviest of hearts , today we are going against everything that the Good Funeral Guide has become known for over the years , and calling for funerals to be stopped completely , '' she said .
`` The decision to exempt funerals from the current ban on social gatherings was undoubtedly made for compassionate reasons , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direction is leading to anguish and suffering beyond imagination . ''
In a blog post , Ms Hall wrote that bereaved people and those supporting them are `` risking their health and even their lives '' by gathering for funerals .
She added : `` This can not continue .
It 's breaking people 's hearts , hurting family members and friends .
It 's confusing everyone .
`` It 's putting lives at risk .
It 's making everything impossible for people who are already reeling from shock and grief .
Heartbreaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decisions which are too much to bear .
`` The current situation is not compassionate or kind , it 's devastating and destructive . ''
Ms Hall said funeral companies are interpreting the lockdown rules in different ways , meaning the amount of mourners who can attend services varies in different parts of the country .
Ms Hall said one crematorium even stated that chapel doors would be locked and the police called if too many people turned up .
She added that `` unattended burial or cremations are the safest , kindest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dead right now '' .
`` Funerals , as we know them , ca n't go on , '' Ms Hall said .
University of Huddersfield academics have said death and bereavement services will `` highly likely '' be overwhelmed even if just 1 % of people who contract COVID-19 die .
The researchers added that limited cemetery space could be a major problem , with the possibility of mass graves .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The number of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK rose to 769 on Friday .
Meanwhile , a temporary mortuary site that will be able to hold up to 12,000 bodies is being built at Birmingham Airport in preparation for an expected rise in coronavirus deaths .
The National Association of Funeral Directors said earlier this month that funerals could be streamed online if the coronavirus outbreak became a pandemic .

The government should ban funerals during the coronavirus pandemic because a "lack of clear instruction" is causing "anguish and suffering beyond imagination", the Good Funeral Guide has said.
Fran Hall, director and chief executive of the not-for-profit organisation, which offers funeral advice, said allowing the ceremonies to continue was putting the health of bereaved people at risk.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced lockdown measures earlier this week to tackle the UK's outbreak of COVID-19.
The measures prohibited all social events, including weddings and baptisms, but allowed funerals.
However families are being asked to consider restricting attendance at funerals to "close family members".
Ms Hall said "confusion" over how the ceremonies are held is "breaking people's hearts".
"With the heaviest of hearts, today we are going against everything that the Good Funeral Guide has become known for over the years, and calling for funerals to be stopped completely," she said.
"Now. Today. Just stop.
"The decision to exempt funerals from the current ban on social gatherings was undoubtedly made for compassionate reasons, but the current lack of clear instruction and direction is leading to anguish and suffering beyond imagination."
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In a blog post, Ms Hall wrote that bereaved people and those supporting them are "risking their health and even their lives" by gathering for funerals.
She added: "This cannot continue. It's breaking people's hearts, hurting family members and friends. It's confusing everyone.
"It's putting lives at risk. It's making everything impossible for people who are already reeling from shock and grief. Heartbreaking decisions are being asked of people - decisions which are too much to bear.
"The current situation is not compassionate or kind, it's devastating and destructive."
Ms Hall said funeral companies are interpreting the lockdown rules in different ways, meaning the amount of mourners who can attend services varies in different parts of the country.
Ms Hall said one crematorium even stated that chapel doors would be locked and the police called if too many people turned up.
She added that "unattended burial or cremations are the safest, kindest, simplest way to deal with our dead right now".
"Funerals, as we know them, can't go on," Ms Hall said.
University of Huddersfield academics have said death and bereavement services will "highly likely" be overwhelmed even if just 1% of people who contract COVID-19 die.
The researchers added that limited cemetery space could be a major problem, with the possibility of mass graves.
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The number of people confirmed to have died from the coronavirus in the UK rose to 769 on Friday.
Meanwhile, a temporary mortuary site that will be able to hold up to 12,000 bodies is being built at Birmingham Airport in preparation for an expected rise in coronavirus deaths.
The National Association of Funeral Directors said earlier this month that funerals could be streamed online if the coronavirus outbreak became a pandemic.


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: 'Third of UK harvest may go to waste' due to COVID-19 travel ban

A third of this summer 's food harvest could go to waste on British farms because of a chronic shortage of migrant labour caused by the coronavirus outbreak , charities and farmers are warning .
UK farms and food producers rely on a migrant workforce of 60,000 to 70,000 seasonal labourers mainly drawn from eastern European countries including Romania , Bulgaria and Poland .
Within weeks , fruit and vegetable crops will need harvesting but travel restrictions across Europe and the UK , imposed to slow the spread of COVID-19 , mean it may prove impossible to recruit overseas staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sources seasonal labourers for British farms , says it is `` desperately worried '' about the impact on the UK harvest , and warned that UK workers will not fill the gap .
Chief executive Stephanie Maurel told Sky News : `` We are extremely worried about what that means for the whole system .
`` If there are 90,000 jobs in our sector , that 's usually 60,000 people that might do six weeks here and there , picking strawberries , asparagus , potatoes and so on .
`` That 's at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we desperately need that we wo n't find in the UK . ''
Concordia is in negotiations with the Romanian and UK governments about providing dedicated flights for some seasonal workers , and is running a campaign called Feed The Nation , encouraging British workers to apply for vacancies .
But Ms Maurel warned that was unlikely to fill the gap , in part because of the government measures announced to cushion the economic impact of the virus .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One unintended consequence of the employee support scheme is that British workers will be paid 80 % of their salaries during the shutdown and may not have the incentive to take other jobs . ''
Farmers in some parts of the country are understood to be taking measures to try and slow down crops , including Scottish strawberry growers removing fleeces from their plants .
But that may only buy the industry days rather than the months it may take for the virus to pass .
Stephen Taylor , managing director of Winterwood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company , said the labour shortages could have a devastating impact .
`` The pickers that normally come to harvest UK crops , that 's for crops of all sorts , vegetables of all sorts , '' he told Sky News .
`` With travel restrictions , it may be that people ca n't leave the country they 're coming from .
Bulgaria , Romania , Poland , and maybe the UK borders are closed and they do n't allow people to come .
`` I think many British farmers may think that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their crop being taken in this summer they would take it . ''
Mr Taylor has instituted more than 50 measures , including thrice-daily temperature checks , to slow the spread of coronavirus among the 200 workers at the company 's Kent packing plant .
The plant currently distributes soft berries from Iberia to all the UK 's major supermarkets .
Mr Taylor is also having to manage fluctuating demand , which saw orders equivalent to Christmas when the outbreak began , but have now slowed down as lockdown measures and supermarket policies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The usual rules of supply and demand have been altered .
With lockdown and people seeing the queues at supermarkets , we are seeing orders actually starting to decline .
`` Supermarkets have withdrawn promotions which are designed to even out supply and demand , so we may actually see some fruit not sold . ''

A third of this summer's food harvest could go to waste on British farms because of a chronic shortage of migrant labour caused by the coronavirus outbreak, charities and farmers are warning.
UK farms and food producers rely on a migrant workforce of 60,000 to 70,000 seasonal labourers mainly drawn from eastern European countries including Romania, Bulgaria and Poland.
Within weeks, fruit and vegetable crops will need harvesting but travel restrictions across Europe and the UK, imposed to slow the spread of COVID-19, mean it may prove impossible to recruit overseas staff.
Image: Many British farms rely on seasonal workers from abroad
Farm labour charity Concordia, which sources seasonal labourers for British farms, says it is "desperately worried" about the impact on the UK harvest, and warned that UK workers will not fill the gap.
Chief executive Stephanie Maurel told Sky News: "We are extremely worried about what that means for the whole system.
"If there are 90,000 jobs in our sector, that's usually 60,000 people that might do six weeks here and there, picking strawberries, asparagus, potatoes and so on.
"That's at least 60,000 jobs, 60,000 people that we desperately need that we won't find in the UK."
Concordia is in negotiations with the Romanian and UK governments about providing dedicated flights for some seasonal workers, and is running a campaign called Feed The Nation, encouraging British workers to apply for vacancies.
But Ms Maurel warned that was unlikely to fill the gap, in part because of the government measures announced to cushion the economic impact of the virus.
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She said: "One unintended consequence of the employee support scheme is that British workers will be paid 80% of their salaries during the shutdown and may not have the incentive to take other jobs."
Farmers in some parts of the country are understood to be taking measures to try and slow down crops, including Scottish strawberry growers removing fleeces from their plants.
But that may only buy the industry days rather than the months it may take for the virus to pass.
Stephen Taylor, managing director of Winterwood Farms, Europe's largest soft-fruit packing company, said the labour shortages could have a devastating impact.
Image: Farm labour charity Concordia says it is 'desperately worried'
"The pickers that normally come to harvest UK crops, that's for crops of all sorts, vegetables of all sorts," he told Sky News.
"With travel restrictions, it may be that people can't leave the country they're coming from. Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, and maybe the UK borders are closed and they don't allow people to come.
"I think many British farmers may think that if you offered them 70% of their crop being taken in this summer they would take it."
Mr Taylor has instituted more than 50 measures, including thrice-daily temperature checks, to slow the spread of coronavirus among the 200 workers at the company's Kent packing plant.
The plant currently distributes soft berries from Iberia to all the UK's major supermarkets.
Mr Taylor is also having to manage fluctuating demand, which saw orders equivalent to Christmas when the outbreak began, but have now slowed down as lockdown measures and supermarket policies take effect.
He said: "The usual rules of supply and demand have been altered. With lockdown and people seeing the queues at supermarkets, we are seeing orders actually starting to decline.
"Supermarkets have withdrawn promotions which are designed to even out supply and demand, so we may actually see some fruit not sold."


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: British tourists in Spain told to return home as all hotels shut

British tourists in Spain have been advised to return to the UK as soon as possible because all hotels in the country are closing to limit the spread of coronavirus .
The Foreign Office issued the advice as the Spanish government ordered all hotels and short-stay accommodation , such as campsites and caravan parks , to close from 24 March .
A statement said : `` We therefore advise British travellers in Spain to contact their tour operator or airline as soon as possible , to arrange their return journey home before this date . ''
It comes as many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Morocco were left stranded after travel bans kicked in .
Spain 's foreign minister , Arancha Gonzalez Laya , said her government would help foreigners get home safely .
The country has the fourth highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the world , with cases increasing on Wednesday by 2,552 to bring the total to 13,910 .
There were 102 coronavirus deaths reported on Wednesday , bringing Spain 's total to 623 .
Britons had already been advised against all but essential travel to Madrid , La Rioja , La Bastida @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government declared a state of emergency on Saturday , with the entire nation on lockdown for 15 days .
Non-essential shops and bars , restaurants , cafes , football grounds and cinemas were ordered to close .
Residents have had to stay at home and are only allowed out to buy food and medicine , or travel to work , health centres or banks .
Travel is only allowed for those looking after the elderly or dependants .
Spain 's foreign minister also asked the country 's 2.7 million citizens living abroad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Gonzalez Laya said they should respect the recommendations of the countries they are in .
Spain has also announced a 200 billion euro ( £184bn ) package to help companies and protect workers and other vulnerable groups as the country tries to deal with the economic impact .
The White House announced on Wednesday that it was postponing a visit by Spain 's King Felipe and Queen Letizia in April because of the pandemic .
Meanwhile , the situation in Italy - the worst-hit country in Europe - does not appear to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its biggest daily jump in deaths - 475 , bringing the country 's total to 2,978 .

British tourists in Spain have been advised to return to the UK as soon as possible because all hotels in the country are closing to limit the spread of coronavirus.
The Foreign Office issued the advice as the Spanish government ordered all hotels and short-stay accommodation, such as campsites and caravan parks, to close from 24 March.
A statement said: "We therefore advise British travellers in Spain to contact their tour operator or airline as soon as possible, to arrange their return journey home before this date."
It comes as many British tourists in countries such as Turkey and Morocco were left stranded after travel bans kicked in.
Image: Spain's government says it will help foreigners leave the country
Spain's foreign minister, Arancha Gonzalez Laya, said her government would help foreigners get home safely.
The country has the fourth highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the world, with cases increasing on Wednesday by 2,552 to bring the total to 13,910.
There were 102 coronavirus deaths reported on Wednesday, bringing Spain's total to 623.
Britons had already been advised against all but essential travel to Madrid, La Rioja, La Bastida, Vitoria and Miranda de Ebro after the government declared a state of emergency on Saturday, with the entire nation on lockdown for 15 days.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Coronavirus: Who's most at risk?
Non-essential shops and bars, restaurants, cafes, football grounds and cinemas were ordered to close.
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Residents have had to stay at home and are only allowed out to buy food and medicine, or travel to work, health centres or banks.
Travel is only allowed for those looking after the elderly or dependants.
Image: Restaurants are closed in the usually crowded Plaza Mayor in Madrid
Image: Madrid is the centre of Spain's coronavirus outbreak
Spain's foreign minister also asked the country's 2.7 million citizens living abroad to avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary.
Ms Gonzalez Laya said they should respect the recommendations of the countries they are in.
Spain has also announced a 200 billion euro (£184bn) package to help companies and protect workers and other vulnerable groups as the country tries to deal with the economic impact.
The White House announced on Wednesday that it was postponing a visit by Spain's King Felipe and Queen Letizia in April because of the pandemic.
Meanwhile, the situation in Italy - the worst-hit country in Europe - does not appear to be improving.
On Wednesday it reported its biggest daily jump in deaths - 475, bringing the country's total to 2,978.
Cases increased 4,207 to 35,713.


news--2020-03-26--Coronavirus: 'My mum won't hug me' - rise in calls to Childline about pandemic

Coronavirus fears are taking a growing toll on the mental health of Britain 's young people , according to Childline .
The child counselling service says it has delivered more than 900 sessions to children worried about the coronavirus , which has infected more than 500,000 people around the world .
Almost two-thirds ( 597 ) of the Childline sessions took place between 16 and 22 March , while the peak was 18 March , when Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced school closures .
There were 121 calls that day .
The charity said that more than 50 of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had suicidal thoughts made worse by their concerns about the virus .
One girl told the helpline : `` My mum and I have a good relationship but she 's really obsessed with the news and she wo n't hug me or get very close to me .
`` It scares me to think this will go on for months .
She constantly talks about the coronavirus and my anxiety is getting worse . ''
For children with difficult home lives , friends and schools might have provided a support network but , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of COVID-19 , these support networks have been cut off .
In Scotland , the NSPCC said its counsellors had helped 167 children between 16 and 22 March with isolation , arguments at home and problems accessing mental health support among the issues faced by children .
One girl had told the service that the cancellation of her mental health appointment and closure of her school had left her `` really anxious , upset and lonely '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England and Wales have been given key worker status so they can continue the service , but the NSPCC in Scotland wants the same for its workers .
Leanne Ferries , Aberdeen Childline service manager , said : `` Coronavirus is in the news constantly , causing some young people to be anxious , particularly those who are already coping with other issues in their lives .
`` Things are being made even more difficult for them by schools closing , being confined to their homes and not being able to see their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is vital that a service like Childline is there throughout this crisis , always ready to listen and help .
`` Keeping children safe and providing them with a space to talk about their concerns is our number one priority . ''
Childline founder Dame Esther Rantzen said : `` Sometimes young people find it difficult to share their anxieties with their parents , for fear of worrying them further .
So it is important that families talk about their feelings , together .
`` We are hearing from children who have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as school , and friends , and that has increased their feelings of loneliness and vulnerability .
`` They may have pre-existing mental health issues which are exacerbated by the current crisis . ''
A government spokeswoman said : `` We know that young people may be worried in what is an unprecedented situation .
`` We are acting across government and working with the NHS and Public Health England to ensure support is there for the young people that need it , and we are grateful to Childline 's staff and volunteers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children . ''
To contact Childline call 0800 1111 or for other ways to speak to one of the helpline 's counsellors , look at https : //www.childline.org.uk/get-support/contacting-childline/

Coronavirus fears are taking a growing toll on the mental health of Britain's young people, according to Childline.
The child counselling service says it has delivered more than 900 sessions to children worried about the coronavirus, which has infected more than 500,000 people around the world.
Almost two-thirds (597) of the Childline sessions took place between 16 and 22 March, while the peak was 18 March, when Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced school closures. There were 121 calls that day.
The charity said that more than 50 of the sessions that week were with children who had suicidal thoughts made worse by their concerns about the virus.
One girl told the helpline: "My mum and I have a good relationship but she's really obsessed with the news and she won't hug me or get very close to me.
"It scares me to think this will go on for months. She constantly talks about the coronavirus and my anxiety is getting worse."
For children with difficult home lives, friends and schools might have provided a support network but, due to restrictions implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19, these support networks have been cut off.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:07 Getting used to life in lockdown in Sheffield
In Scotland, the NSPCC said its counsellors had helped 167 children between 16 and 22 March with isolation, arguments at home and problems accessing mental health support among the issues faced by children.
One girl had told the service that the cancellation of her mental health appointment and closure of her school had left her "really anxious, upset and lonely".
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Childline staff in England and Wales have been given key worker status so they can continue the service, but the NSPCC in Scotland wants the same for its workers.
Leanne Ferries, Aberdeen Childline service manager, said: "Coronavirus is in the news constantly, causing some young people to be anxious, particularly those who are already coping with other issues in their lives.
"Things are being made even more difficult for them by schools closing, being confined to their homes and not being able to see their friends.
"That is why it is vital that a service like Childline is there throughout this crisis, always ready to listen and help.
"Keeping children safe and providing them with a space to talk about their concerns is our number one priority."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:03 What is social distancing?
Childline founder Dame Esther Rantzen said: "Sometimes young people find it difficult to share their anxieties with their parents, for fear of worrying them further. So it is important that families talk about their feelings, together.
"We are hearing from children who have been cut off from vital support networks such as school, and friends, and that has increased their feelings of loneliness and vulnerability.
"They may have pre-existing mental health issues which are exacerbated by the current crisis."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:11 Goldie Hawn: 'Don't fight, just love your children'
A government spokeswoman said: "We know that young people may be worried in what is an unprecedented situation.
"We are acting across government and working with the NHS and Public Health England to ensure support is there for the young people that need it, and we are grateful to Childline's staff and volunteers for everything they do to support vulnerable children."
To contact Childline call 0800 1111 or for other ways to speak to one of the helpline's counsellors, look at https://www.childline.org.uk/get-support/contacting-childline/


news--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Britain could see biggest mobilisation of military since Iraq war

Britain 's fight against the coronavirus could see the biggest mobilisation by the armed forces since the 2003 Iraq war .
Military units around the country are looking at what contribution they could make - if requested - to slow the spread of the disease , boost the capacity of the NHS to care for patients and help ensure vital supplies reach people stuck at home .
In total , more than 20,000 servicemen and women are on standby and `` there are many more to come behind that if necessary '' , General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith , the head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media message at the weekend .
They will comprise regular troops and reservists .
More than 700 military personnel are already deployed as part of what is being called the COVID Support Force .
Their tasks include : • Helping the NHS to turn the sprawling ExCel exhibition centre in London into a 4,000-bed hospital facility for coronavirus patients • Scoping out sites across the country that could also be turned into makeshift hospitals • Working with `` local resilience forums '' to prepare their response to the outbreak • Training to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Helping to transport protective equipment like face masks to hospitals General Sir Nick Parker , a former Commander Land Forces , headed the military effort to secure the Olympic Games in London in 2012 in support of the government - an operation that required close to 20,000 service personnel but only lasted a few weeks .
He said the armed forces today would be `` leaning into the challenge '' posed by COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
: : Listen to the Daily Podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the military is the lead against the enemy , '' Sir Nick told Sky News .
`` Here you have this rather bizarre situation where the NHS are in the frontline and the military is one of your essential components to provide the essential support to get through it . ''
The armed forces `` are very good at making rapid analysis of complex problems '' , he said .
`` What I would expect to happen now is for quite a strong military command spine to emerge across the country , coordinating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government to enable the non-NHS things to be coordinated . ''
There is also an important role for the voluntary sector , according to Sir Nick .
He is on the board of directors for Team Rubicon , a charity that has a network of former service personnel and other emergency relief experts ready to provide disaster relief anywhere in the world , including in the UK .
`` There will be a significant , spontaneous , volunteer offer from the ex-military community , '' Sir Nick said .
`` We are working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foothold because we do believe we have got something to offer . ''
General Sir Richard Barrons , another top former commander , also believes that volunteers have a vital role to play in the UK 's response to the coronavirus outbreak , not least because of the limited size and strength of the armed forces .
`` The national resilience capacity is not in the military it 's in civil society , '' he said .
`` We think the armed forces are the saviour but actually it is mobilising the capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key strategic issue it is about building capacity in civil society . ''
There will still be a prominent and important role for the army , Royal Navy and Royal Air Force , which is being coordinated by the Standing Joint Force Headquarters in Aldershot .
The mission to support the UK at home has been code-named Operation Rescript .
A parallel coronavirus mission to support the UK overseas - including British military deployments abroad and the UK 's Overseas Territories like the Falkland Islands - has been named Operation Broadshare .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soldiers , sailors , airmen and Royal Marines on standby to mobilise in support of the coronavirus crisis , more than 2,000 personnel are on 24 hours ' notice to move and 1,500 are being put on 48 hours ' notice to move .
Security officials are alert to the possibility that the UK 's adversaries , including Russia , could be monitoring the impact of the virus on Britain and its allies to observe vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited .
At the same time as responding to the pandemic , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the UK 's national security are not compromised by the virus .
This includes maintaining a nuclear-armed submarine permanently at sea , counter-terrorism troops at readiness to respond to a terrorist attack and RAF fast jets poised to scramble in response to a threat to the UK airspace .
Key operations overseas must also continue , including a deployment to Estonia , where hundreds of British troops are part of a NATO mission to deter Russian aggression .
British forces are also in Afghanistan , Iraq and elsewhere .
The Iraq mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ means efforts to train Iraqi security forces had to be put on hold .
Servicemen and women on vital operations are being kept in isolation or quarantined for 14 days to ensure they do not catch the disease or do not have the disease .
But there is an expectation that across defence up to 20 % of the workforce could be unable to work at the peak of the pandemic .
Back in 2003 , some 46,000 servicemen and women were involved at the peak of the operation when Britain joined the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Britain's fight against the coronavirus could see the biggest mobilisation by the armed forces since the 2003 Iraq war.
Military units around the country are looking at what contribution they could make - if requested - to slow the spread of the disease, boost the capacity of the NHS to care for patients and help ensure vital supplies reach people stuck at home.
In total, more than 20,000 servicemen and women are on standby and "there are many more to come behind that if necessary", General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, the head of the army, said in a social media message at the weekend.
They will comprise regular troops and reservists.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:52 Army delivers 50,000 face masks to hospital
More than 700 military personnel are already deployed as part of what is being called the COVID Support Force. Their tasks include:
Helping the NHS to turn the sprawling ExCel exhibition centre in London into a 4,000-bed hospital facility for coronavirus patients
Scoping out sites across the country that could also be turned into makeshift hospitals
Working with "local resilience forums" to prepare their response to the outbreak
Training to drive oxygen tankers for the NHS
Helping to transport protective equipment like face masks to hospitals
General Sir Nick Parker, a former Commander Land Forces, headed the military effort to secure the Olympic Games in London in 2012 in support of the government - an operation that required close to 20,000 service personnel but only lasted a few weeks.
He said the armed forces today would be "leaning into the challenge" posed by COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
:: Listen to the Daily Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"Normally the military is the lead against the enemy," Sir Nick told Sky News.
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"Here you have this rather bizarre situation where the NHS are in the frontline and the military is one of your essential components to provide the essential support to get through it."
The armed forces "are very good at making rapid analysis of complex problems", he said.
"What I would expect to happen now is for quite a strong military command spine to emerge across the country, coordinating between the local resilience forums and central government to enable the non-NHS things to be coordinated."
There is also an important role for the voluntary sector, according to Sir Nick.
Image: A military lorry delivers a consignment of medical masks to St Thomas' Hospital in London
He is on the board of directors for Team Rubicon, a charity that has a network of former service personnel and other emergency relief experts ready to provide disaster relief anywhere in the world, including in the UK.
"There will be a significant, spontaneous, volunteer offer from the ex-military community," Sir Nick said.
"We are working hard at the moment to get a foothold because we do believe we have got something to offer."
General Sir Richard Barrons, another top former commander, also believes that volunteers have a vital role to play in the UK's response to the coronavirus outbreak, not least because of the limited size and strength of the armed forces.
"The national resilience capacity is not in the military it's in civil society," he said.
"We think the armed forces are the saviour but actually it is mobilising the capacity of civil society. That is the key strategic issue it is about building capacity in civil society."
There will still be a prominent and important role for the army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, which is being coordinated by the Standing Joint Force Headquarters in Aldershot.
The mission to support the UK at home has been code-named Operation Rescript.
A parallel coronavirus mission to support the UK overseas - including British military deployments abroad and the UK's Overseas Territories like the Falkland Islands - has been named Operation Broadshare.
Image: Troops help deliver protective equipment at St Thomas' Hospital
It is understood that of the nearly 20,700 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Royal Marines on standby to mobilise in support of the coronavirus crisis, more than 2,000 personnel are on 24 hours' notice to move and 1,500 are being put on 48 hours' notice to move.
Security officials are alert to the possibility that the UK's adversaries, including Russia, could be monitoring the impact of the virus on Britain and its allies to observe vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:27 Police tell sunbathers: 'It's not a holiday'
At the same time as responding to the pandemic, the Ministry of Defence must ensure operations vital to the UK's national security are not compromised by the virus.
This includes maintaining a nuclear-armed submarine permanently at sea, counter-terrorism troops at readiness to respond to a terrorist attack and RAF fast jets poised to scramble in response to a threat to the UK airspace.
Key operations overseas must also continue, including a deployment to Estonia, where hundreds of British troops are part of a NATO mission to deter Russian aggression.
Image: The London ExCel centre will be turned into a makeshift NHS hospital and critical care unit
British forces are also in Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere. The Iraq mission is being scaled down because the coronavirus means efforts to train Iraqi security forces had to be put on hold.
Servicemen and women on vital operations are being kept in isolation or quarantined for 14 days to ensure they do not catch the disease or do not have the disease.
But there is an expectation that across defence up to 20% of the workforce could be unable to work at the peak of the pandemic.
Back in 2003, some 46,000 servicemen and women were involved at the peak of the operation when Britain joined the United States in its invasion of Iraq.


news--2020-03-27--Coronavirus: Billions set aside to help the UK economy - now comes the hard part

Three giant financial support packages pulled together in just nine days : the economic challenge momentous ; the pace of work in Whitehall exhausting ; the sums of money staggering .
The final set piece on Thursday was a generous £9bn scheme to support up to 3.8 million self-employed workers hit by coronavirus .
It came six days after Chancellor Rishi Sunak offered to help pay the wages of millions of salaried workers while he pumped another £7bn to put into the welfare system .
The previous week , Mr Sunak had announced a £350bn emergency package for the economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £330bn along with a further £20bn of handouts for struggling businesses .
He also promised £12bn in emergency support in the budget earlier this month .
Tot it all up and you have £46bn in emergency support for businesses , the self-employed and the welfare system .
Add the commitment to foot the wage bill for potentially millions of employees and the loan guarantee scheme and we 're approaching £400bn in state support announced in less than two weeks .
These colossal schemes now need to be rolled out .
Set against the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ task is acutely clear : far less ambitious operations than the British welfare and tax system are falling over from the force of demand brought about by these extraordinary times .
Online food retailer Ocado had to suspend its website because it could n't cope with the demand , while Sainsbury 's had to stop accepting new customers .
Banks including NatWest and Santander are struggling to cope with the volume of customers phoning to ask for mortgage holidays as some customers complain of three-hour waits .
Public and private sector , everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cope with a new reality that has emerged in a matter of days - often when big chunks of their staff are off work self-isolating or sick due to COVID-19 .
Getting the schemes up and running has required Herculean effort from ministers , the civil service , and other public bodies such as the Financial Conduct Authority , HMRC , and the Bank of England .
Take as an example the Coronavirus Business Support Loan Scheme .
Announced on Tuesday 17 March , a new loan guarantee scheme running to £330bn was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The paperwork for the new programme was signed off by the business secretary Alok Sharma and the Treasury at 4am on Monday morning .
Since its launch this week , the scheme has had over 30,000 inquiries .
But it has had early teething problems too , with the chancellor , Bank of England , and Financial Conduct Authority reprimanding banks for attaching stringent conditions to the new loans amid concerns lenders were insisting on personal guarantees - such as using people 's homes as collateral - on loans .
The Treasury has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emerging theme of the crisis is the mismatch between the government racing to roll out support and people 's experiences .
Renters were assured that they will not face eviction due to coronavirus but some are being served notices ; Universal Credit is widening support and processing a staggering number of claims ( 677,000 processed in the past nine days ) but tens of thousands of people are struggling to get through due to the sheer demand .
And now the self-employed have been offered support , but the system wo n't be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker It remains to be seen whether the immediate support - via loans or Universal Credit - is as readily available and accessible as Mr Sunak suggested it would be .
A Treasury source admits there will be bumps along the road as the government pulls together new ambitious schemes , saying : `` This is hard and complicated , and we 're doing the only thing we can - being honest about those challenges .
`` But hopefully people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working its socks off night and day .
We 'll keep doing that because there has n't been a more important moment in our life for public service . ''
April will be the month when the rubber hits the road .
The Whitehall machine must focus ruthlessly and relentlessly on delivering the schemes it has promised - people 's livelihoods and wellbeing in a time of acute anxiety depend on it .
It is , in the words of former business minister Anna Soubry , the disconnect between the grand scheme and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blights every minister , especially in a crisis '' .
The ambition of this new chancellor plain to see , but in the end it will be all about the delivery .

Three giant financial support packages pulled together in just nine days: the economic challenge momentous; the pace of work in Whitehall exhausting; the sums of money staggering.
The final set piece on Thursday was a generous £9bn scheme to support up to 3.8 million self-employed workers hit by coronavirus.
It came six days after Chancellor Rishi Sunak offered to help pay the wages of millions of salaried workers while he pumped another £7bn to put into the welfare system.
The previous week, Mr Sunak had announced a £350bn emergency package for the economy made up of state loan guarantees worth £330bn along with a further £20bn of handouts for struggling businesses. He also promised £12bn in emergency support in the budget earlier this month.
Tot it all up and you have £46bn in emergency support for businesses, the self-employed and the welfare system. Add the commitment to foot the wage bill for potentially millions of employees and the loan guarantee scheme and we're approaching £400bn in state support announced in less than two weeks.
These colossal schemes now need to be rolled out. Set against the real economy, the scale of the task is acutely clear: far less ambitious operations than the British welfare and tax system are falling over from the force of demand brought about by these extraordinary times.
Online food retailer Ocado had to suspend its website because it couldn't cope with the demand, while Sainsbury's had to stop accepting new customers.
Banks including NatWest and Santander are struggling to cope with the volume of customers phoning to ask for mortgage holidays as some customers complain of three-hour waits.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:52 In full: The government's offer to the self-employed
Public and private sector, everyone is having to rewire their systems to cope with a new reality that has emerged in a matter of days - often when big chunks of their staff are off work self-isolating or sick due to COVID-19.
Advertisement
Getting the schemes up and running has required Herculean effort from ministers, the civil service, and other public bodies such as the Financial Conduct Authority, HMRC, and the Bank of England.
Take as an example the Coronavirus Business Support Loan Scheme. Announced on Tuesday 17 March, a new loan guarantee scheme running to £330bn was made operational in just six days.
The paperwork for the new programme was signed off by the business secretary Alok Sharma and the Treasury at 4am on Monday morning. Since its launch this week, the scheme has had over 30,000 inquiries.
But it has had early teething problems too, with the chancellor, Bank of England, and Financial Conduct Authority reprimanding banks for attaching stringent conditions to the new loans amid concerns lenders were insisting on personal guarantees - such as using people's homes as collateral - on loans.
The Treasury has moved at breakneck speed, but the emerging theme of the crisis is the mismatch between the government racing to roll out support and people's experiences.
Renters were assured that they will not face eviction due to coronavirus but some are being served notices; Universal Credit is widening support and processing a staggering number of claims (677,000 processed in the past nine days) but tens of thousands of people are struggling to get through due to the sheer demand. And now the self-employed have been offered support, but the system won't be ready until June.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
It remains to be seen whether the immediate support - via loans or Universal Credit - is as readily available and accessible as Mr Sunak suggested it would be.
A Treasury source admits there will be bumps along the road as the government pulls together new ambitious schemes, saying: "This is hard and complicated, and we're doing the only thing we can - being honest about those challenges.
"But hopefully people can see that the whole organisation is working its socks off night and day. We'll keep doing that because there hasn't been a more important moment in our life for public service."
April will be the month when the rubber hits the road. The Whitehall machine must focus ruthlessly and relentlessly on delivering the schemes it has promised - people's livelihoods and wellbeing in a time of acute anxiety depend on it.
It is, in the words of former business minister Anna Soubry, the disconnect between the grand scheme and the experience on the ground that "blights every minister, especially in a crisis".
The ambition of this new chancellor plain to see, but in the end it will be all about the delivery.