news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: UK could face strict new controls on funeral services for COVID-19 victims

The UK could face strict new controls on funeral services for the victims of coronavirus .
Representatives of the country 's funeral directors , crematoria and cemeteries are meeting with senior Whitehall officials on Tuesday to discuss a set of national coronavirus guidelines for those involved in after life services , Sky News has learnt .
It follows a controversial announcement in the Republic of Ireland last week , which would have seen funeral services for COVID-19 victims postponed .
The Irish Association of Funeral Directors published guidance , calling for the quick burial or cremation of coronavirus victims , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ memorial service at a later date , once the health crisis has subsided .
But that guidance has now been amended , to give a more permissive approach , allowing funerals to take place , but restricting attendance at funeral homes to close family members , and banning the practice of allowing open caskets in funeral homes and at funeral services .
In the UK , the National Association of Funeral Directors is calling on the government to issue clear national guidance for all funeral directors and associated services to follow .
Jon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told Sky News : `` Funeral directors are really ready to step up to the plate and help with what are quite clearly unprecedented times and an international emergency .
`` But what we do n't want are different things going on in different places .
`` I think funeral directors really need to know what they should tell families about what they can expect in terms of the timing of a funeral and how many people can gather at a funeral .
`` If there are restrictions on the number of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know exactly what they can do and funeral directors need to be able to give a very clear picture . ''
Mr Levett said he was very concerned that the lack of clear national advice could leave individual funeral directors exposed and at risk of a backlash from families , if some funeral directors decide to implement restrictive measures themselves .
`` It 's only fair that funeral directors are given a very clear national policy , otherwise we are going to get a very confused picture and it 's not fair on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such a difficult for them . ''
Alison Crake , whose family has run a funeral home in Stockton-on-Tees for the past half century , was instrumental in helping draw up a recent nationwide pandemic plan for the funeral industry .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker She said : `` Working on the pandemic plan has been very useful .
Preparation is the key .
`` There are now numerous templates and documents that will help the profession cope with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better manage and train their staff to deal with the challenges of a pandemic . ''
But she said that government-level guidance was essential in deciding on individual measures .
She said those in charge within the funeral sector had to make sure their staff were properly protected .
`` It 's really important that funeral directors are aware of how not only to care for the families of those who have died , but also care for their own teams who are working in that environment .
`` We need to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protection equipment that they need to properly carry out their role .
`` We have a duty of care to those in our community , those that we 've served and cared for over a number of years .
But I think that an effective communication of how we 're working is key here .
`` I think we need to have an approach that supports people who have lost someone to this terrible illness , and that we 've got the appropriate mechanisms in place to ensure people are safe when large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help limit the risk of exposure to coronavirus could include limiting face to face contact with bereaved families , instead discussing funeral arrangements over the phone or internet .
The British government has been reluctant to put a definitive figure on the number of potential COVID-19 fatalities in the months ahead .
There are , officials have said , just too many variables .
But if significant numbers succumb to the illness , those within the funeral services sector acknowledge it could mean the implementation of more distressing measures , at an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm , with experts answering your questions # AskSkyNews at 12.30pm

The UK could face strict new controls on funeral services for the victims of coronavirus.
Representatives of the country's funeral directors, crematoria and cemeteries are meeting with senior Whitehall officials on Tuesday to discuss a set of national coronavirus guidelines for those involved in after life services, Sky News has learnt.
It follows a controversial announcement in the Republic of Ireland last week, which would have seen funeral services for COVID-19 victims postponed.
The Irish Association of Funeral Directors published guidance, calling for the quick burial or cremation of coronavirus victims, giving bereaved families the option of a memorial service at a later date, once the health crisis has subsided.
But that guidance has now been amended, to give a more permissive approach, allowing funerals to take place, but restricting attendance at funeral homes to close family members, and banning the practice of allowing open caskets in funeral homes and at funeral services.
In the UK, the National Association of Funeral Directors is calling on the government to issue clear national guidance for all funeral directors and associated services to follow.
Jon Levett, the association's CEO, told Sky News: "Funeral directors are really ready to step up to the plate and help with what are quite clearly unprecedented times and an international emergency.
"But what we don't want are different things going on in different places.
"I think funeral directors really need to know what they should tell families about what they can expect in terms of the timing of a funeral and how many people can gather at a funeral.
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"If there are restrictions on the number of people at gatherings, the bereaved need to know exactly what they can do and funeral directors need to be able to give a very clear picture."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:49 PM gives fresh coronavirus advice
Mr Levett said he was very concerned that the lack of clear national advice could leave individual funeral directors exposed and at risk of a backlash from families, if some funeral directors decide to implement restrictive measures themselves.
"It's only fair that funeral directors are given a very clear national policy, otherwise we are going to get a very confused picture and it's not fair on bereaved families not to have clarity at such a difficult for them."
Alison Crake, whose family has run a funeral home in Stockton-on-Tees for the past half century, was instrumental in helping draw up a recent nationwide pandemic plan for the funeral industry.
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:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
She said: "Working on the pandemic plan has been very useful. Preparation is the key.
"There are now numerous templates and documents that will help the profession cope with a pandemic.
"It'll help them better manage and train their staff to deal with the challenges of a pandemic."
But she said that government-level guidance was essential in deciding on individual measures.
She said those in charge within the funeral sector had to make sure their staff were properly protected.
"It's really important that funeral directors are aware of how not only to care for the families of those who have died, but also care for their own teams who are working in that environment.
"We need to make sure those teams have the right personal protection equipment that they need to properly carry out their role.
"We have a duty of care to those in our community, those that we've served and cared for over a number of years. But I think that an effective communication of how we're working is key here.
"I think we need to have an approach that supports people who have lost someone to this terrible illness, and that we've got the appropriate mechanisms in place to ensure people are safe when large numbers of people gather."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 How to contain a global pandemic
Measures to help limit the risk of exposure to coronavirus could include limiting face to face contact with bereaved families, instead discussing funeral arrangements over the phone or internet.
The British government has been reluctant to put a definitive figure on the number of potential COVID-19 fatalities in the months ahead. There are, officials have said, just too many variables.
But if significant numbers succumb to the illness, those within the funeral services sector acknowledge it could mean the implementation of more distressing measures, at an already traumatic time for bereaved families.
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews at 12.30pm


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe temporarily released from Iranian prison amid outbreak fears

British-Iranian mother Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been released temporarily by the Iranian authorities because of the coronavirus outbreak , says her husband .
Richard Radcliffe said unlike other prisoners given temporary release , his wife has to wear an ankle tag , which her parents had to hire from the authorities , and her movements will be restricted to 300 metres from her parents ' home .
He said : `` My feelings today have been all of a mix - pleased at the happiness for Nazanin and ( their daughter ) Gabriella , but fear this is a new drawn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue now is to make it permanent and bring Nazanin home .
It is one feeling to walk out of prison .
It is completely different to walk back in .
No one should be asked to go and be a hostage again .
So we are watching carefully . ''
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe said : `` I am so happy to be out .
Even with the ankle tag , I am so happy .
Being out is so much better than being in - if you knew what hell this place is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope it will be the beginning of coming home . ''
Their local MP Tulip Siddiq said : `` We are pleased and relieved that Nazanin will be with her family rather than in jail at this time of terrible chaos and uncertainty .
`` However , we have been here before and know from past experience that Nazanin will be treated like a prisoner in her own home .
The UK government must get reassurances from Iran that she wo n't be harassed or intimidated while on temporary release . ''
Mrs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as COVID-19 cases in Iran continued to climb .
Iran has temporarily freed about 85,000 prisoners in an effort to combat the spread of coronavirus .
The number of dead from coronavirus has reached 853 in Iran , where a total of 14,991 people have been infected .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said : `` I am relieved that Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was today temporarily released into the care of her family in Iran .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receives any necessary medical care .
While this is a welcome step , we urge the government now to release all UK dual nationals arbitrarily detained in Iran , and enable them to return to their families in the UK . ''
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was arrested at Tehran 's Imam Khomeini airport while travelling to introduce Gabriella to her parents in 2016 .
She was sentenced to five years in jail over claims of plotting to overthrow Iran 's government , which she denies .
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was later given diplomatic protection by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iran has failed to meet its obligations under international law .

British-Iranian mother Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been released temporarily by the Iranian authorities because of the coronavirus outbreak, says her husband.
Richard Radcliffe said unlike other prisoners given temporary release, his wife has to wear an ankle tag, which her parents had to hire from the authorities, and her movements will be restricted to 300 metres from her parents' home.
He said: "My feelings today have been all of a mix - pleased at the happiness for Nazanin and (their daughter) Gabriella, but fear this is a new drawn out game of chess.
Image: Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has to wear an ankle tag
Image: Richard Ratcliffe, with their five-year-old daughter Gabriella
"The issue now is to make it permanent and bring Nazanin home. It is one feeling to walk out of prison. It is completely different to walk back in. No one should be asked to go and be a hostage again. So we are watching carefully."
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe said: "I am so happy to be out. Even with the ankle tag, I am so happy. Being out is so much better than being in - if you knew what hell this place is. It is mental. Let us hope it will be the beginning of coming home."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:37 Virus 'opportunity for reset' in Iran-UK relations - Richard Ratcliffe
Their local MP Tulip Siddiq said: "We are pleased and relieved that Nazanin will be with her family rather than in jail at this time of terrible chaos and uncertainty.
"However, we have been here before and know from past experience that Nazanin will be treated like a prisoner in her own home. The UK government must get reassurances from Iran that she won't be harassed or intimidated while on temporary release."
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been released for two weeks as COVID-19 cases in Iran continued to climb.
Iran has temporarily freed about 85,000 prisoners in an effort to combat the spread of coronavirus.
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The number of dead from coronavirus has reached 853 in Iran, where a total of 14,991 people have been infected.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: "I am relieved that Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was today temporarily released into the care of her family in Iran.
"We urge the regime to ensure she receives any necessary medical care. While this is a welcome step, we urge the government now to release all UK dual nationals arbitrarily detained in Iran, and enable them to return to their families in the UK."
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was arrested at Tehran's Imam Khomeini airport while travelling to introduce Gabriella to her parents in 2016.
She was sentenced to five years in jail over claims of plotting to overthrow Iran's government, which she denies.
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was later given diplomatic protection by the British government, which argues that Iran has failed to meet its obligations under international law.


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Donald Trump urges panic buyers to 'relax' as Federal Reserve cuts interest rate

Donald Trump has urged the public to stop hoarding groceries during the coronavirus outbreak , telling Americans to `` take it easy '' and `` relax '' .
The US president 's message came as many supermarket shelves across the US - and the UK - were emptied , with people stockpiling supplies including canned food , pasta and toilet paper .
America 's central bank , the Federal Reserve , took emergency action on Sunday to help the US economy withstand the virus by slashing its benchmark interest rate to near zero .
In a White House briefing on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested negative for COVID-19 - said shops were working to keep up with demand but added `` there 's no need for anyone in the country to hoard essential food supplies '' .
`` You do n't have to buy so much .
Take it easy .
Just relax , '' he said .
`` We 're doing great .
It all will pass .
`` Can you buy a little bit less , please ? ''
Mr Trump said there were `` no shortages '' but some people were buying three to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ purchase .
He added that he held a call with the officials from America 's leading grocery outlets who were stocking up even more than they would around Christmas time .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Mr Trump also hailed the `` very good news '' that the Federal Reserve had slashed its benchmark interest rate by a full percentage point to a target range of 0 % to 0.25 % .
The US central bank said that rate would remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weathered recent events .
It has also dropped its requirements that banks hold cash reserves in another move to encourage lending .
Other central banks around the world , including the Bank of England , the Bank of Canada , the Bank of Japan , the European Central Bank , and the Swiss National Bank , announced they would co-ordinate to ease liquidity in an attempt to blunt the economic impact of the virus .
A statement from the governor of the Bank of England , Mark Carney , and incoming governor , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's co-ordinated action by major central banks will improve global liquidity by lowering the price and extending the maximum term of US dollar lending operations .
These new operations will help ease strains in global funding markets , thereby supporting the supply of credit to households and businesses .
`` This action complements other steps being taken by central banks and other national authorities , including the comprehensive and timely package of measures launched by the Bank of England last Wednesday .
These measures , reinforced by targeted fiscal actions such as in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bridge the disruption from an economic shock that could prove sharp and large , but should be temporary . ''
US officials have recorded nearly 3,000 COVID-19 cases and 62 deaths linked to the virus .
The US has lagged behind other developed nations in its ability to test for coronavirus , but Vice President Mike Pence promised that Americans would have access in the days ahead to more than 2,000 laboratories capable of processing tests .
In an effort to combat the spread of the virus , New York City is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than a million children , and Mayor Bill de Blasio has ordered the city 's restaurants , bars , theatres and cinemas to shut .
The US states of Ohio , Illinois and Los Angeles have also taken measures by ordering all bars and restaurants to close .
People returning to the US faced long queues as they were screened for coronavirus , prompting federal officials to deploy more staff and Mr Trump to appeal for patience .
The US president said airport checks are `` moving as quickly as possible but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ careful '' .
Meanwhile , the German government is trying to stop the Trump administration from persuading a German company seeking a coronavirus vaccine to move its research to the US .
Sources told the Reuters news agency that the US government is looking into how it could gain access to a potential vaccine being developed by a German firm CureVac .
The German newspaper Welt am Sonntag reported that Mr Trump had offered funds to lure CureVac to the US , and the German government was making counter-offers to tempt it to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US ambassador to Germany , insisted on Twitter that `` the Welt story was wrong '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
• Globally more than 169,000 are infected and over 6,500 have died • US President Donald Trump tests negative for the coronavirus • Guatemala logs its first fatality from COVID-19 • Italy records 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak on Sunday , its biggest one day rise • France is preparing an order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown to combat the epidemic • Britain will isolate older people `` within weeks '' and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus • Jordan confirms 12 new cases of the coronavirus • More major retailers shut stores in the US including Nike , Under Armour , and Lululemon Athletica Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm , with experts answering your questions # AskSkyNews at 12.30pm

Donald Trump has urged the public to stop hoarding groceries during the coronavirus outbreak, telling Americans to "take it easy" and "relax".
The US president's message came as many supermarket shelves across the US - and the UK - were emptied, with people stockpiling supplies including canned food, pasta and toilet paper.
America's central bank, the Federal Reserve, took emergency action on Sunday to help the US economy withstand the virus by slashing its benchmark interest rate to near zero.
In a White House briefing on Sunday, Mr Trump - who has tested negative for COVID-19 - said shops were working to keep up with demand but added "there's no need for anyone in the country to hoard essential food supplies".
"You don't have to buy so much. Take it easy. Just relax," he said.
"We're doing great. It all will pass.
"Can you buy a little bit less, please?"
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Mr Trump said there were "no shortages" but some people were buying three to five times the amount they would normally purchase.
He added that he held a call with the officials from America's leading grocery outlets who were stocking up even more than they would around Christmas time.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Mr Trump also hailed the "very good news" that the Federal Reserve had slashed its benchmark interest rate by a full percentage point to a target range of 0% to 0.25%.
The US central bank said that rate would remain until it feels confident the economy has weathered recent events.
It has also dropped its requirements that banks hold cash reserves in another move to encourage lending.
Image: Supermarket shelves were emptied in Saugus, Massachusetts
Other central banks around the world, including the Bank of England, the Bank of Canada, the Bank of Japan, the European Central Bank, and the Swiss National Bank, announced they would co-ordinate to ease liquidity in an attempt to blunt the economic impact of the virus.
A statement from the governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, and incoming governor, Andrew Bailey, said: "Today's co-ordinated action by major central banks will improve global liquidity by lowering the price and extending the maximum term of US dollar lending operations. These new operations will help ease strains in global funding markets, thereby supporting the supply of credit to households and businesses.
"This action complements other steps being taken by central banks and other national authorities, including the comprehensive and timely package of measures launched by the Bank of England last Wednesday. These measures, reinforced by targeted fiscal actions such as in the UK budget, will help economies to bridge the disruption from an economic shock that could prove sharp and large, but should be temporary."
Image: Shoppers line up in a supermarket in Virginia
US officials have recorded nearly 3,000 COVID-19 cases and 62 deaths linked to the virus.
The US has lagged behind other developed nations in its ability to test for coronavirus, but Vice President Mike Pence promised that Americans would have access in the days ahead to more than 2,000 laboratories capable of processing tests.
In an effort to combat the spread of the virus, New York City is closing nearly 1,900 public schools, affecting more than a million children, and Mayor Bill de Blasio has ordered the city's restaurants, bars, theatres and cinemas to shut.
The US states of Ohio, Illinois and Los Angeles have also taken measures by ordering all bars and restaurants to close.
People returning to the US faced long queues as they were screened for coronavirus, prompting federal officials to deploy more staff and Mr Trump to appeal for patience.
Image: People wait to check-in at Miami International Airport
The US president said airport checks are "moving as quickly as possible but it was important to be vigilant and careful".
Meanwhile, the German government is trying to stop the Trump administration from persuading a German company seeking a coronavirus vaccine to move its research to the US.
Sources told the Reuters news agency that the US government is looking into how it could gain access to a potential vaccine being developed by a German firm CureVac.
The German newspaper Welt am Sonntag reported that Mr Trump had offered funds to lure CureVac to the US, and the German government was making counter-offers to tempt it to stay.
However, Richard Grenell, the US ambassador to Germany, insisted on Twitter that "the Welt story was wrong".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
In other developments:
Globally more than 169,000 are infected and over 6,500 have died
US President Donald Trump tests negative for the coronavirus
Guatemala logs its first fatality from COVID-19
Italy records 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak on Sunday, its biggest one day rise
France is preparing an order that would put the country under partial lockdown to combat the epidemic
Britain will isolate older people "within weeks" and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus
"within weeks" and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus Jordan confirms 12 new cases of the coronavirus
More major retailers shut stores in the US including Nike, Under Armour, and Lululemon Athletica
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews at 12.30pm


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus Bill: Emergency laws to contain spread of COVID-19 published

The government has today outlined details of new emergency powers to contain the spread of COVID-19 by publishing the Emergency Coronavirus Bill .
It includes details for shutting down the UK 's ports and airports and giving police powers to detain people suspected of having coronavirus .
It follows significant economic measures introduced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak The government believes the new legislation is vital to tackle the public health crisis caused by COVID-19 and will be time-limited for two years and cover areas such as the NHS , social care , schools , police , Border Force , local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as enhancing powers for government , the legislation will also scrap existing regulations in some areas should public services suffer mass staff shortages .
Not all the measures will come into force immediately , while they can be `` switched off '' if they are no longer necessary .
: : Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Tuesday that the new powers `` will only be used when it is absolutely necessary and must be timed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they give the government the powers it needs to protect lives , '' he added .
In order to ensure the UK 's border security , Home Secretary Priti Patel will be given the power to request ports and airports temporarily close and suspend operations if there is a shortage of Border Force staff .
Police and immigration officers will also be given the power to detain a person and quarantine them if they are , or might be , infectious .
In other measures , the legislation will allow : • Recently-retired @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as regulated healthcare professionals , in order to boost the number of NHS staff ; • Social workers who have recently left the profession to be temporarily added to registers ; • Workers to be able to take `` emergency volunteer leave '' for up to four weeks , with a compensation fund to be established to cover their loss of earnings and expenses ; • Just one doctor 's opinion , rather than the current two , to be used to detain and treat patients for a mental health disorder ; • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced to close - or forced to stay open , as well as the relaxation of some requirements such as maximum class sizes ; • The greater use of video and audio link in courts ; • The temporary appointment of Judicial Commissioners , who authorise warrants under anti-terror laws , should there be a shortage ; • The government to have the power to restrict or ban any events or gatherings ; • The removal of some bureaucracy surrounding funerals and cremations , including expanding the list of people who can register @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on behalf of the family ; • Local councils to directly take over the management of deaths , if it becomes likely the number of people who might die from coronavirus is likely to significantly exceed the capacity locally to manage the deceased ; • The food industry to be forced to provide information about food supplies .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
The bill will also allow the government to bring in its planned action to temporarily suspend the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not paid for the first three days of work missed , in a measure that will be backdated to 13 March .
It will also confirm the postponement of local and mayoral elections to 2021 .
In separate government action , Housing , Communities and Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick has announced the relaxation of planning rules to allow all pubs , restaurants and cafes to be able to offer takeaway and delivery services if they wish .

The government has today outlined details of new emergency powers to contain the spread of COVID-19 by publishing the Emergency Coronavirus Bill.
It includes details for shutting down the UK's ports and airports and giving police powers to detain people suspected of having coronavirus.
It follows significant economic measures introduced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak
The government believes the new legislation is vital to tackle the public health crisis caused by COVID-19 and will be time-limited for two years and cover areas such as the NHS, social care, schools, police, Border Force, local councils, funerals and courts.
As well as enhancing powers for government, the legislation will also scrap existing regulations in some areas should public services suffer mass staff shortages.
Not all the measures will come into force immediately, while they can be "switched off" if they are no longer necessary.
:: Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Tuesday that the new powers "will only be used when it is absolutely necessary and must be timed to maximise their effectiveness".
"Crucially they give the government the powers it needs to protect lives," he added.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:47 Coronavirus: What are the new economic measures?
In order to ensure the UK's border security, Home Secretary Priti Patel will be given the power to request ports and airports temporarily close and suspend operations if there is a shortage of Border Force staff.
Police and immigration officers will also be given the power to detain a person and quarantine them if they are, or might be, infectious.
In other measures, the legislation will allow:
Recently-retired doctors or medical students to be registered as regulated healthcare professionals, in order to boost the number of NHS staff;
Social workers who have recently left the profession to be temporarily added to registers;
Workers to be able to take "emergency volunteer leave" for up to four weeks, with a compensation fund to be established to cover their loss of earnings and expenses;
Just one doctor's opinion, rather than the current two, to be used to detain and treat patients for a mental health disorder;
Schools and children's nurseries to be forced to close - or forced to stay open, as well as the relaxation of some requirements such as maximum class sizes;
The greater use of video and audio link in courts;
The temporary appointment of Judicial Commissioners, who authorise warrants under anti-terror laws, should there be a shortage;
The government to have the power to restrict or ban any events or gatherings;
The removal of some bureaucracy surrounding funerals and cremations, including expanding the list of people who can register a death to include funeral directors acting on behalf of the family;
Local councils to directly take over the management of deaths, if it becomes likely the number of people who might die from coronavirus is likely to significantly exceed the capacity locally to manage the deceased;
The food industry to be forced to provide information about food supplies.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
The bill will also allow the government to bring in its planned action to temporarily suspend the rule that means statutory sick pay is not paid for the first three days of work missed, in a measure that will be backdated to 13 March.
It will also confirm the postponement of local and mayoral elections to 2021.
In separate government action, Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick has announced the relaxation of planning rules to allow all pubs, restaurants and cafes to be able to offer takeaway and delivery services if they wish.


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Criminal trials lasting longer than three days to be suspended because of COVID-19 spre

Coronavirus: Criminal trials lasting longer than three days to be suspended because of COVID-19 spread

Criminal trials which are due to last longer than three days will be put on hold due to the spread of coronavirus .
The move by the Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett - the most senior judge in England and Wales - affects those cases that were set to start before the end of April .
They will now be postponed .
Any current trials will continue as it is hoped they can still be completed .
The government has been under pressure to outline its strategy for the legal system , following concerns about how COVID-19 , the disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affect court business .
There are reports of jurors dropping out of cases due to self-isolating , or coming to court when they should have stayed away , putting the health of others at risk .
Criminal trials pose `` particular problems in a fast-moving situation '' because of the involvement of many participants including the judge , jurors , defendants , lawyers , witnesses and court staff , according to a statement announcing the latest decision .
For other court hearings , like family and magistrates ' courts , where no jurors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make sure as many hearings as possible take place - with some or all of those involved attending by telephone , videolink or online .
The statement read : `` Given the risks of a trial not being able to complete , the Lord Chief Justice has decided that no new trial should start in the crown court unless it is expected to last for three days or less .
`` All cases estimated to last longer than three days listed to start before the end of April 2020 will be adjourned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under review and the position regarding short trials will be revisited as circumstances develop and in any event next week .
`` As events unfold decisions will be taken in respect of all cases awaiting trial in the crown court . ''
Earlier on Tuesday , organisations that represent lawyers called for jury trials to be halted and said the risks of them continuing were `` too great '' .
The Bar Council 's chairwoman Amanda Pinto QC said : `` Being in a jury trial should not be a game of Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
What is the latest coronavirus advice ?
• If you live alone and have a high temperature or a new and continuous cough , you should self-isolate for seven days • If you live in a household with others and have a high temperature or a new and continuous cough , both yourself and all others in your household should stay isolated together for 14 days • Everyone , including if you are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ household where no one is displaying symptoms , should stop all unnecessary contact with others and all unnecessary travel • You should work from home where possible and avoid venues such as pubs , clubs , theatres and restaurants • Pay particular attention to the advice if you are over 70 , pregnant , have underlying health problems or live in London • Do n't call the NHS 111 helpline if you have mild or moderate illness and instead seek advice online .
But do call if your illness becomes more severe .

Criminal trials which are due to last longer than three days will be put on hold due to the spread of coronavirus.
The move by the Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett - the most senior judge in England and Wales - affects those cases that were set to start before the end of April. They will now be postponed.
Any current trials will continue as it is hoped they can still be completed.
The government has been under pressure to outline its strategy for the legal system, following concerns about how COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, could spread and affect court business.
There are reports of jurors dropping out of cases due to self-isolating, or coming to court when they should have stayed away, putting the health of others at risk.
Criminal trials pose "particular problems in a fast-moving situation" because of the involvement of many participants including the judge, jurors, defendants, lawyers, witnesses and court staff, according to a statement announcing the latest decision.
For other court hearings, like family and magistrates' courts, where no jurors are involved, steps are being taken to make sure as many hearings as possible take place - with some or all of those involved attending by telephone, videolink or online.
The statement read: "Given the risks of a trial not being able to complete, the Lord Chief Justice has decided that no new trial should start in the crown court unless it is expected to last for three days or less.
"All cases estimated to last longer than three days listed to start before the end of April 2020 will be adjourned.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:37 Coronavirus: UK's new economic measures explained
"These cases will be kept under review and the position regarding short trials will be revisited as circumstances develop and in any event next week.
"As events unfold decisions will be taken in respect of all cases awaiting trial in the crown court."
Earlier on Tuesday, organisations that represent lawyers called for jury trials to be halted and said the risks of them continuing were "too great".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 Analysis: Just how serious could COVID-19 cases be?
The Bar Council's chairwoman Amanda Pinto QC said: "Being in a jury trial should not be a game of Russian roulette with the participants' health."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
What is the latest coronavirus advice?


news--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Deloitte in talks to slash pension contributions

Deloitte , the big four accountancy firm , is proposing to slash pension contributions for thousands of UK staff as it seeks to maximise cost savings during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Sky News has learnt that Deloitte has launched a consultation on the issue in the last few days , underlining the financial strain that even the largest consulting groups believe the coronavirus outbreak will place on their businesses .
Sources close to the situation said the firm was exploring whether to reduce the maximum employer pension contribution from 12 % of an employee 's salary to 4.5 % .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead , it would save tens of millions of pounds during the 12 months that the reduction would be in place .
If it goes ahead , it would affect the majority of Deloitte 's 19,000 UK staff - although not hundreds of equity partner who are not eligible to join the firm 's pension scheme .
A Deloitte spokesperson said : `` We 've been closely monitoring and managing the COVID-19 situation and supporting our people and clients is a priority .
`` We are doing all we can to protect jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` As part of this we have started a consultation with our people on temporarily reducing our maximum employer pension contributions . ''
The pension cuts come on top of measures announced last month by Richard Houston , Deloitte 's UK boss , which included deferring profit distributions and an expected 20 % decline in partners ' annual earnings .
Annual pay increases have also been cancelled , while the number of bonuses and promotions at the firm this year would be delayed and reduced .
Deloitte is not alone in taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefits during the pandemic , even as it lands prominent contracts from the government to help manage the public sector 's response to it .
Last month , Sky News revealed that Bill Michael , the UK chairman of KPMG , had told staff that the COVID-19 crisis risked an `` economic disaster '' as he set out his firm 's plans to navigate it .
Mr Michael , who is himself recuperating at home following treatment in hospital for COVID-19 , told KPMG 's 18,000-strong UK workforce that they faced `` a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live and work '' .
The pandemic has created a major headache for the big four firms - also made up of EY and PricewaterhouseCoopers - because the consequent slowdown in business activity has come at the same time as they are braced for a structural overhaul of their operations .
PwC has said it would delay partner promotions and bonuses , while EY is also cutting pay , but has vowed not to pursue compulsory redundancies .

Deloitte, the big four accountancy firm, is proposing to slash pension contributions for thousands of UK staff as it seeks to maximise cost savings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sky News has learnt that Deloitte has launched a consultation on the issue in the last few days, underlining the financial strain that even the largest consulting groups believe the coronavirus outbreak will place on their businesses.
Sources close to the situation said the firm was exploring whether to reduce the maximum employer pension contribution from 12% of an employee's salary to 4.5%.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 'There must be a national safety standard at work'
One insider estimated that if it went ahead, it would save tens of millions of pounds during the 12 months that the reduction would be in place.
If it goes ahead, it would affect the majority of Deloitte's 19,000 UK staff - although not hundreds of equity partner who are not eligible to join the firm's pension scheme.
A Deloitte spokesperson said: "We've been closely monitoring and managing the COVID-19 situation and supporting our people and clients is a priority.
"We are doing all we can to protect jobs and our business in the coming months.
"As part of this we have started a consultation with our people on temporarily reducing our maximum employer pension contributions."
The pension cuts come on top of measures announced last month by Richard Houston, Deloitte's UK boss, which included deferring profit distributions and an expected 20% decline in partners' annual earnings.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 'We can protect people by having the rules'
Annual pay increases have also been cancelled, while the number of bonuses and promotions at the firm this year would be delayed and reduced.
Deloitte is not alone in taking the axe to employees' pay and benefits during the pandemic, even as it lands prominent contracts from the government to help manage the public sector's response to it.
Last month, Sky News revealed that Bill Michael, the UK chairman of KPMG, had told staff that the COVID-19 crisis risked an "economic disaster" as he set out his firm's plans to navigate it.
Mr Michael, who is himself recuperating at home following treatment in hospital for COVID-19, told KPMG's 18,000-strong UK workforce that they faced "a huge paradigm shift in the way we live and work".
The pandemic has created a major headache for the big four firms - also made up of EY and PricewaterhouseCoopers - because the consequent slowdown in business activity has come at the same time as they are braced for a structural overhaul of their operations.
PwC has said it would delay partner promotions and bonuses, while EY is also cutting pay, but has vowed not to pursue compulsory redundancies.


news--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: The 'absolutely amazing' midwives delivering miracles

`` It 's quite hard to come in and keep that brave face on with everything that 's going on , but this is one of the most important times of a woman 's life and we just want to reassure them , '' says Kathryn Harding .
She is a manager on the maternity ward at Liverpool Women 's Hospital and as we chat via Skype to mark International Day of the Midwife it 's clear to see how much she loves her job .
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered every aspect of working life , but one thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is her determination to provide the same level of care for every woman about to give birth .
She said : `` It 's just about reassuring the women that we are there for them and to give them the best possible experience they will ever have .
We want to make sure our patients are reassured we are doing everything we can for them .
`` Our staff have really stepped up to the mark and should be very proud of themselves .
We are so proud to be midwives and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minute , we could n't be any more proud .
We look after our women and give them all the care they need . ''
Since the NHS put itself on the highest level of alert over COVID-19 on 29 January local midwives and maternity services in the UK have helped to bring almost 160,000 babies into the world .
Katy Rogers , 36 , from Liverpool , gave birth to Lydia and Naomi via c-section a week ago and hailed the midwives who cared for her as `` absolutely amazing '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ girls ' births so Katy had to walk into the hospital by herself .
`` When I was dropped off at the front door I must admit I cried when I walked in , '' she told me via FaceTime .
`` But the people at the reception saw that I was upset and saw the situation and someone actually walked me to the area I needed to be in , so I did n't have to walk in by myself .
`` Everyone in that waiting room had their birthing partners waiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ midwives were absolutely amazing .
When you are in the hospital you do n't even know any of this is going on , apart from the PPE they are wearing .
`` It was business as usual and the support could not have been better . ''
: : Listen to Coronavirus : In This Together on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or Spreaker A survey released today by the Royal College of Midwives shows that 94 % of midwives and student midwives feel valued by the British public .
`` I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ birth stories and the joy of birth , '' said Gill Walton from the Royal College of Midwives .
`` Women have been posting pictures online of their newborn babies and also midwives themselves saying how proud they are of the women they have been caring for , the way they accepted the new circumstances . ''

"It's quite hard to come in and keep that brave face on with everything that's going on, but this is one of the most important times of a woman's life and we just want to reassure them," says Kathryn Harding.
She is a manager on the maternity ward at Liverpool Women's Hospital and as we chat via Skype to mark International Day of the Midwife it's clear to see how much she loves her job.
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered every aspect of working life, but one thing shines through from talking to Kathryn and that is her determination to provide the same level of care for every woman about to give birth.
She said: "It's just about reassuring the women that we are there for them and to give them the best possible experience they will ever have. We want to make sure our patients are reassured we are doing everything we can for them.
"Our staff have really stepped up to the mark and should be very proud of themselves. We are so proud to be midwives and the way we are working at the minute, we couldn't be any more proud. We look after our women and give them all the care they need."
Since the NHS put itself on the highest level of alert over COVID-19 on 29 January local midwives and maternity services in the UK have helped to bring almost 160,000 babies into the world.
Katy Rogers, 36, from Liverpool, gave birth to Lydia and Naomi via c-section a week ago and hailed the midwives who cared for her as "absolutely amazing".
Image: Lydia and Naomi with dad Phil Rogers
Her husband Phil couldn't attend the girls' births so Katy had to walk into the hospital by herself.
"When I was dropped off at the front door I must admit I cried when I walked in," she told me via FaceTime.
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"But the people at the reception saw that I was upset and saw the situation and someone actually walked me to the area I needed to be in, so I didn't have to walk in by myself.
"Everyone in that waiting room had their birthing partners waiting downstairs in the car park. The midwives were absolutely amazing. When you are in the hospital you don't even know any of this is going on, apart from the PPE they are wearing.
"It was business as usual and the support could not have been better."
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:: Listen to Coronavirus: In This Together on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Spreaker
A survey released today by the Royal College of Midwives shows that 94% of midwives and student midwives feel valued by the British public.
"I think it has been very uplifting seeing positive birth stories and the joy of birth," said Gill Walton from the Royal College of Midwives.
"Women have been posting pictures online of their newborn babies and also midwives themselves saying how proud they are of the women they have been caring for, the way they accepted the new circumstances."


news--2020-05-04--Coronavirus scam: Animal lovers being conned into buying non-existent pets

Hundreds of animal lovers are being conned online into buying puppies and kittens that do n't exist .
Criminals are using the coronavirus crisis as an excuse to persuade locked-down customers to pay up before they are allowed to travel to see their new pets .
In the past two months police say 669 victims have lost more than £282,000 after answering fake advertisements on social media and pet sale websites .
Victims across the UK are being duped by scams that typically start with a deposit , followed by demands for payments to cover insurance , vaccinations and even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre Action Fraud .
Pauline Smith , head of Action Fraud , said : `` The fact criminals will even exploit an international crisis , such as the one we find ourselves in now , to take innocent people 's money is especially cruel .
`` But , unfortunately , as we spend more time online , and are forced to adapt to a new way of life , opportunities will arise for criminals to commit fraud .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spreaker '' During these unprecedented times , it may seem quite plausible that you should have to pay a deposit for a pet and that you would n't be able to see the animal in real life first .
`` However , we would encourage you to think carefully before you transfer any money - do you know and trust this person ? ''
Action Fraud says that before buying anything online customers should research the site and seller and ask to see a video of animals for sale .
If suspicious , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said : `` Unfortunately we 've investigated many criminal gangs who are willing to exploit animals in order to make a quick buck and now , during this time of international crisis , they will be trying new tricks to cash in and con the public .
`` We 'd urge anyone thinking of getting a new pet to think long and hard about whether they can properly care for that animal , not just now but into the future when restrictions are lifted and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If people do decide now is the right time to get a pet , then we 'd always urge them to consider adopting instead of buying an animal .
`` We still have thousands of animals in our care at the moment and have restarted re-homing some animals in England with strict measures to keep our staff and the public safe . ''

Hundreds of animal lovers are being conned online into buying puppies and kittens that don't exist.
Criminals are using the coronavirus crisis as an excuse to persuade locked-down customers to pay up before they are allowed to travel to see their new pets.
In the past two months police say 669 victims have lost more than £282,000 after answering fake advertisements on social media and pet sale websites.
Victims across the UK are being duped by scams that typically start with a deposit, followed by demands for payments to cover insurance, vaccinations and even delivery of a pet, says the national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre Action Fraud.
Pauline Smith, head of Action Fraud, said: "The fact criminals will even exploit an international crisis, such as the one we find ourselves in now, to take innocent people's money is especially cruel.
"But, unfortunately, as we spend more time online, and are forced to adapt to a new way of life, opportunities will arise for criminals to commit fraud.
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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"During these unprecedented times, it may seem quite plausible that you should have to pay a deposit for a pet and that you wouldn't be able to see the animal in real life first.
"However, we would encourage you to think carefully before you transfer any money - do you know and trust this person?"
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Action Fraud says that before buying anything online customers should research the site and seller and ask to see a video of animals for sale. If suspicious, don't go ahead.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:06 Boris Johnson: 'It's humanity against the virus'
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said: "Unfortunately we've investigated many criminal gangs who are willing to exploit animals in order to make a quick buck and now, during this time of international crisis, they will be trying new tricks to cash in and con the public.
"We'd urge anyone thinking of getting a new pet to think long and hard about whether they can properly care for that animal, not just now but into the future when restrictions are lifted and their lifestyles become more busy.
"If people do decide now is the right time to get a pet, then we'd always urge them to consider adopting instead of buying an animal.
"We still have thousands of animals in our care at the moment and have restarted re-homing some animals in England with strict measures to keep our staff and the public safe."


news--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Premier League return would 'lift the spirits of the nation', Dominic Raab says

The return of Premier League football would `` lift the spirits of the nation '' , the foreign secretary has said .
Speaking at the government 's daily COVID-19 briefing , Dominic Raab said ministers were looking at sports being played behind closed doors in the second phase of its coronavirus response .
Asked about football 's top flight coming back in mid-June , the current timeframe the footballing authorities are working towards , Mr Raab said : `` I think it would lift the spirits of the nation .
`` I think people would like to see us get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... to a stage where children can safely return to school , but also enjoy some of those pastimes , sporting in particular .
`` I know that the government has had constructive meetings with sports bodies to plan for athletes to resume training when it 's safe to do so . ''
Talking about sport more generally , Mr Raab continued : `` I can tell you that the culture secretary ( Oliver Dowden ) has also been working on a plan to get sports played behind closed doors when we move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something I can tell you we 're looking at . ''
The French and Dutch top flights have both been cancelled because of government orders around the COVID-19 pandemic , but the Premier League is still aiming to finish the 2019-20 season .
Its `` Project Restart '' was presented to clubs at a meeting on Friday .
Sides were told the remaining 92 matches of the season , which was halted in mid-March , must be played at neutral venues .
The plans are understood to have been well received , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about safety and the integrity of the competition if games go ahead at neutral sites .
Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is among players who have expressed concerns about returning to action .
Former England striker Gary Lineker , who is now a television pundit , told Sky News there were `` mixed opinions '' among players about resuming the season .
`` They want to come back , but obviously they want to come back in safe circumstances , '' he said .
Lineker added : `` An ideal situation would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where we go .
`` But it 's such a moving feast , it 's really difficult to make any kind of sound prediction . ''
The Premier League is believed to be looking at using between eight and 10 stadiums , with venues likely to be picked based on the ease of ensuring social distancing .
Return-to-training protocols , which include wearing face masks or snoods , were also presented to clubs .
The teams will consult their players and coaching staff on the proposals , which are still subject to approval @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Professional Footballers ' Association , has raised the possibility of halves shorter than 45 minutes when games return .
Resuming matches from the week beginning 8 June is still understood to be the Premier League 's best-case scenario .
Teams are expected to vote on the key principles of `` Project Restart '' at a meeting on Monday , the day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson addresses the nation about the next phase of the UK 's response to COVID-19 .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League said in a statement on Friday : `` The league and clubs are considering the first tentative moves forward and will only return to training and playing with government guidance , under expert medical advice and after consultation with players and managers . ''
Meanwhile , the chairman of the English Football League has warned the 2020-21 season may not start until crowds are allowed back into stadiums .
Rick Parry , who warned it would be `` very messy '' if the Premier League blocked teams being promoted from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` reset '' and said talks around salary caps and other cost controls were taking place .
Action would also be needed to address a £200m `` cash hole '' that clubs were facing by the end of September , Mr Parry added .

The return of Premier League football would "lift the spirits of the nation", the foreign secretary has said.
Speaking at the government's daily COVID-19 briefing, Dominic Raab said ministers were looking at sports being played behind closed doors in the second phase of its coronavirus response.
Asked about football's top flight coming back in mid-June, the current timeframe the footballing authorities are working towards, Mr Raab said: "I think it would lift the spirits of the nation.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:31 Should football restart just to finish the season?
"I think people would like to see us get back, not just to work and... to a stage where children can safely return to school, but also enjoy some of those pastimes, sporting in particular.
"I know that the government has had constructive meetings with sports bodies to plan for athletes to resume training when it's safe to do so."
Talking about sport more generally, Mr Raab continued: "I can tell you that the culture secretary (Oliver Dowden) has also been working on a plan to get sports played behind closed doors when we move to the second phase, that's something I can tell you we're looking at."
The French and Dutch top flights have both been cancelled because of government orders around the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Premier League is still aiming to finish the 2019-20 season.
Its "Project Restart" was presented to clubs at a meeting on Friday.
Sides were told the remaining 92 matches of the season, which was halted in mid-March, must be played at neutral venues.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Neville not convinced over football's return
The plans are understood to have been well received, but concerns have been expressed in some quarters about safety and the integrity of the competition if games go ahead at neutral sites.
Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is among players who have expressed concerns about returning to action.
Former England striker Gary Lineker, who is now a television pundit, told Sky News there were "mixed opinions" among players about resuming the season.
"They want to come back, but obviously they want to come back in safe circumstances," he said.
Lineker added: "An ideal situation would be to complete the season and then see where we go.
"But it's such a moving feast, it's really difficult to make any kind of sound prediction."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 Carragher: Virus will decide when football returns
The Premier League is believed to be looking at using between eight and 10 stadiums, with venues likely to be picked based on the ease of ensuring social distancing.
Return-to-training protocols, which include wearing face masks or snoods, were also presented to clubs.
The teams will consult their players and coaching staff on the proposals, which are still subject to approval.
Gordon Taylor, chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association, has raised the possibility of halves shorter than 45 minutes when games return.
Resuming matches from the week beginning 8 June is still understood to be the Premier League's best-case scenario.
Teams are expected to vote on the key principles of "Project Restart" at a meeting on Monday, the day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson addresses the nation about the next phase of the UK's response to COVID-19.
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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The Premier League said in a statement on Friday: "The league and clubs are considering the first tentative moves forward and will only return to training and playing with government guidance, under expert medical advice and after consultation with players and managers."
Meanwhile, the chairman of the English Football League has warned the 2020-21 season may not start until crowds are allowed back into stadiums.
Rick Parry, who warned it would be "very messy" if the Premier League blocked teams being promoted from the Championship, told MPs the EFL needed a "reset" and said talks around salary caps and other cost controls were taking place.
Action would also be needed to address a £200m "cash hole" that clubs were facing by the end of September, Mr Parry added.


news--2020-04-27--Coronavirus: How many COVID-19 hate crimes are in your area

Police forces across the UK have revealed the number of hate crimes against Chinese people during the coronavirus outbreak .
They revealed at least 267 offences were recorded between January and March during the COVID-19 crisis - including assaults , robberies , harassment and criminal damage - at a rate nearly three times that of the previous two years .
Find out how many hate crimes were recorded in your area below , with each force 's response listed in alphabetical order .
For the main story on this , click here .
Avon and Somerset Police recorded one hate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first three months of 2020 , compared with one in 2019 and one in 2018 .
However the force added that 70 % of hate crimes in this period did not have the victim 's nationality recorded .
The three recorded hate crimes were malicious communications ; racially or religiously aggravated assault without injury and racially or religiously aggravated public fear , alarm or distress , but the force did not say which years they were committed .
Bedfordshire Police recorded four hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole of 2019 and five in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included an attempted robbery of personal property , theft and two offences of racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment , alarm or distress .
British Transport Police recorded 49 hate crimes against victims whose `` ethnic appearance was recorded as Chinese , Japanese or South East Asian '' in the first three months of 2020 .
This compared to 49 crimes throughout the whole of 2019 and 42 in 2018 .
The force listed several hate crimes in 2020 in which victims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victim was told `` go back to your own country , you have coronavirus you c**** , '' another was told `` I 'll catch coronavirus off you '' , and one suspect started to abuse victims wearing face masks and said they should : `` F*** off back to where they came from , China or Japan . ''
Other crimes included an offender who said `` f****** Chinese '' five times and punched the victim in the jaw , another victim who was spat on , an offender who used threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` as though they were an infection '' , and an offender who said to a victim on at least 10 occasions `` you are Jackie Chan are n't you , you are Jackie Chan '' .
Cambridgeshire Police recorded four hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020 , along with 13 crimes in 2019 and 12 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included an incident where a suspect approached the victim and said `` masks do n't work you Chinese '' , before threatening the victim with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offence saw a suspect approach a woman in the street and cough in her face , with the victim believing she had been targeted due to her race and the coronavirus outbreak .
Cheshire Police recorded one hate crime against a Chinese victim in the first three months of 2020 , along with six in 2019 and 11 in 2018 .
The force did not provide details of the offences .
City of London Police said it had recorded no hate crimes against Chinese people from 2018 to March 2020 .
Sky News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police .
Cumbria Police recorded seven hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , up from six in the whole of 2019 and five in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included six offences of racially or religiously aggravated public fear , alarm or distress and one offence of racially or religiously aggravated harassment .
Derbyshire Police recorded one hate crime against a Chinese victim in the first three months of 2020 , compared with six in 2019 and two in 2018 .
The offence in 2020 was criminal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hate crimes against victims who identified as Chinese in the first three months of 2020 , up from 11 in 2019 and 10 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included two offences of racially or religiously aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm and five offences of racially or religiously aggravated common assault .
There were also several offences of racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment , alarm or distress in words/writing .
Sky News did not receive a response from Dorset Police .
Sky News did not receive a response from Durham Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recorded no hate crimes against Chinese people between 2018 and March 2020 .
Essex Police recorded 19 hate crimes against victims of `` Chinese , Japanese or South East Asian ethnic appearance '' in the first three months of 2020 .
This was up from seven throughout the whole of 2019 and six in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included assault causing actual bodily harm , robbery , harassment and sending letters with intent to cause distress .
Sky News did not receive a response from Gloucestershire Police .
Sky News did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Gwent Police refused to reveal the number of hate crimes against Chinese victims , saying it will be published at `` some future date '' .
Sky News did not receive a response from Hampshire Police .
Hertfordshire Police said it could only provide data from May 2018 when a new IT system was introduced .
The force said it recorded three hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , along with nine in 2019 and three between May 2018 and December 2018 .
The three offences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intentional harassment , alarm or distress .
Humberside Police recorded six hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , compared with five crimes in 2019 and six in 2018 .
Among the offences were racially or religiously aggravated common assault or beating and racially or religiously aggravated criminal damage , but the force did not say which years the crimes happened .
Sky News did not receive a response from Kent Police .
Lancashire Police said five hate crimes were recorded against victims who defined their ethnicity as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the first three months of 2020 .
They were also 32 crimes in 2019 and 27 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included an offender who threw litter out of a first floor window into a neighbour 's garden causing the victim to feel harassed and scared .
Another crime saw offenders shout and throw a drink at a victim .
Leicestershire Police recorded three hates crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , compared with one in 2019 and 10 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ woman and her friend and accused them of spreading coronavirus in March .
The alleged victim said she had faced similar incidents involving youths previously and she believed she and her friend were targeted because of their Chinese ethnicity .
An offence in February saw a Chinese woman being subjected to racist hate comments , while another crime in the same month involved a man banging on a window shouting racist comments .
Lincolnshire Police recorded three hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , with none recorded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2020 included two crimes in which `` an offender made a racist comment against a victim '' , and a third crime when `` an offender told a victim to go back to their own country '' .
Merseyside Police recorded 11 hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020 , along with 31 hate crimes in 2019 and 33 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included an offender who ran off with a person 's face mask after an argument in the street , before the offender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face .
Another recorded crime in 2020 saw an offender telling a woman she `` will pass on the COVID-19 virus '' , with the woman believing the comment was made due to her ethnicity .
A family also had racist abuse directed at them in the street by a group of female youths this year , the force said .
The Metropolitan Police recorded 63 hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020 , compared to 76 in 2019 and 83 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as robbery , theft , burglary , criminal damage and public order offences .
Norfolk Police said it had not recorded any hate crimes where the victim identified as Chinese in the first three months of 2020 , but recorded three crimes in 2019 and eight in 2018 .
North Wales Police said it had not recorded any hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , but recorded five in 2019 and four in 2018 .
North Yorkshire Police recorded two hate crimes against Chinese victims in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up from one in 2019 and one in 2018 .
The force provided details of the crimes but did not say which each years they occurred .
They included offences of racial abuse , threats of violence and spitting .
Another crime saw a victim being told to `` go back to your own country '' and headbutted .
Northamptonshire Police said it recorded seven hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , compared to five in the whole of 2019 and seven in 2018 .
The force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offences , saying `` due to the low numbers and risk of identification '' .
Northumbria Police recorded 14 hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , compared with 18 crimes throughout the whole of 2019 and 14 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included three assaults , two harassment offences and nine offences of causing public fear , alarm or distress .
Sky News did not receive a response from Nottinghamshire Police .
Sky News did not receive a response from Police Scotland .
Sky News did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Service of Northern Ireland ( PSNI ) .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker South Yorkshire Police recorded 23 hates crimes against victims whose appearance was Chinese , Japanese or South East Asian in the first three months of 2020 , compared to 36 crimes in 2019 and 31 in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included four assaults , two harassment offences , three malicious communications offences and 14 offences of causing public fear , alarm or distress .
South Wales Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the first three months of 2020 , compared to nine crimes in 2019 and four in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included two offences of malicious communications and two offences of racially or religiously aggravated public fear , alarm or distress .
Staffordshire Police recorded four hates crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , compared to three crimes in 2019 and 11 in 2018 .
The four hate crimes recorded in 2020 were offences of public order/racially or religiously aggravated harassment , alarm or distress .
Suffolk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victim identified as Chinese in the first three months of 2020 , compared with eight in 2019 and one in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 included an offence of stalking and harassment and three offences of racially or religiously aggravated public fear .
Surrey Police recorded two hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020 , compared with three in 2019 and one in 2018 .
The force said the crimes fell into the following categories ; intentional harassment alarm or distress , ABH , common assault and sending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anxiety , but it did not say which years they occurred .
Sussex Police recorded two hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , compared with 10 in 2019 and eight in 2018 .
Crimes in 2020 were racially or religiously aggravated public fear , alarm or distress and another offence of public fear , alarm or distress .
Thames Valley Police refused to reveal the number of hate crimes against Chinese victims , saying retrieving the data would cost too much and take too much time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not held in an easily retrievable format '' .
Warwickshire Police refused to reveal the number of hate crimes against Chinese victims , saying retrieving the information would take too much time .
West Mercia Police recorded three hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020 , compared with 11 crimes in 2019 and seven in 2018 .
The three crimes in 2020 were racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment , alarm or distress .
West Midlands Police recorded one hate crime against a Chinese victim in the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six crimes in 2019 and seven in 2018 .
The crime recorded in 2020 was racially/religiously aggravated intentional harassment , alarm or distress .
West Yorkshire Police said it needed more time to reveal the number of hate crimes recorded against Chinese victims .
Wiltshire Police said it had no record of any hate crimes against Chinese victims , saying it was not a mandatory requirement for victims to provide details of their race or nationality to the force .

Police forces across the UK have revealed the number of hate crimes against Chinese people during the coronavirus outbreak.
They revealed at least 267 offences were recorded between January and March during the COVID-19 crisis - including assaults, robberies, harassment and criminal damage - at a rate nearly three times that of the previous two years.
Find out how many hate crimes were recorded in your area below, with each force's response listed in alphabetical order.
For the main story on this, click here.
Avon and Somerset Police recorded one hate crime against a Chinese victim in the first three months of 2020, compared with one in 2019 and one in 2018.
However the force added that 70% of hate crimes in this period did not have the victim's nationality recorded.
The three recorded hate crimes were malicious communications; racially or religiously aggravated assault without injury and racially or religiously aggravated public fear, alarm or distress, but the force did not say which years they were committed.
Bedfordshire Police recorded four hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared with four in the whole of 2019 and five in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included an attempted robbery of personal property, theft and two offences of racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress.
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British Transport Police recorded 49 hate crimes against victims whose "ethnic appearance was recorded as Chinese, Japanese or South East Asian" in the first three months of 2020. This compared to 49 crimes throughout the whole of 2019 and 42 in 2018.
The force listed several hate crimes in 2020 in which victims were verbally abused about coronavirus.
One victim was told "go back to your own country, you have coronavirus you c****," another was told "I'll catch coronavirus off you", and one suspect started to abuse victims wearing face masks and said they should: "F*** off back to where they came from, China or Japan."
Other crimes included an offender who said "f****** Chinese" five times and punched the victim in the jaw, another victim who was spat on, an offender who used threatening body language and referred to the victim "as though they were an infection", and an offender who said to a victim on at least 10 occasions "you are Jackie Chan aren't you, you are Jackie Chan".
Cambridgeshire Police recorded four hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020, along with 13 crimes in 2019 and 12 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included an incident where a suspect approached the victim and said "masks don't work you Chinese", before threatening the victim with violence and raising his fist.
Another offence saw a suspect approach a woman in the street and cough in her face, with the victim believing she had been targeted due to her race and the coronavirus outbreak.
Cheshire Police recorded one hate crime against a Chinese victim in the first three months of 2020, along with six in 2019 and 11 in 2018.
The force did not provide details of the offences.
City of London Police said it had recorded no hate crimes against Chinese people from 2018 to March 2020.
Sky News did not receive a response from Cleveland Police.
Cumbria Police recorded seven hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, up from six in the whole of 2019 and five in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included six offences of racially or religiously aggravated public fear, alarm or distress and one offence of racially or religiously aggravated harassment.
Derbyshire Police recorded one hate crime against a Chinese victim in the first three months of 2020, compared with six in 2019 and two in 2018.
The offence in 2020 was criminal damage.
Devon and Cornwall recorded 21 hate crimes against victims who identified as Chinese in the first three months of 2020, up from 11 in 2019 and 10 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included two offences of racially or religiously aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm and five offences of racially or religiously aggravated common assault.
There were also several offences of racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress in words/writing.
Sky News did not receive a response from Dorset Police.
Sky News did not receive a response from Durham Police.
Dyfed Powys Police said it had recorded no hate crimes against Chinese people between 2018 and March 2020.
Essex Police recorded 19 hate crimes against victims of "Chinese, Japanese or South East Asian ethnic appearance" in the first three months of 2020. This was up from seven throughout the whole of 2019 and six in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included assault causing actual bodily harm, robbery, harassment and sending letters with intent to cause distress.
Sky News did not receive a response from Gloucestershire Police.
Sky News did not receive a response from Greater Manchester Police.
Gwent Police refused to reveal the number of hate crimes against Chinese victims, saying it will be published at "some future date".
Sky News did not receive a response from Hampshire Police.
Hertfordshire Police said it could only provide data from May 2018 when a new IT system was introduced.
The force said it recorded three hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, along with nine in 2019 and three between May 2018 and December 2018.
The three offences in 2020 were racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress.
Humberside Police recorded six hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared with five crimes in 2019 and six in 2018.
Among the offences were racially or religiously aggravated common assault or beating and racially or religiously aggravated criminal damage, but the force did not say which years the crimes happened.
Sky News did not receive a response from Kent Police.
Lancashire Police said five hate crimes were recorded against victims who defined their ethnicity as Chinese, Japanese or South East Asian in the first three months of 2020. They were also 32 crimes in 2019 and 27 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included an offender who threw litter out of a first floor window into a neighbour's garden causing the victim to feel harassed and scared.
Another crime saw offenders shout and throw a drink at a victim.
Leicestershire Police recorded three hates crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared with one in 2019 and 10 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included a group of youths who approached a woman and her friend and accused them of spreading coronavirus in March.
The alleged victim said she had faced similar incidents involving youths previously and she believed she and her friend were targeted because of their Chinese ethnicity.
An offence in February saw a Chinese woman being subjected to racist hate comments, while another crime in the same month involved a man banging on a window shouting racist comments.
Image: Police forces were asked by Sky News to reveal details of hate crimes against Chinese people
Lincolnshire Police recorded three hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, with none recorded in 2019 and 2018.
The offences in 2020 included two crimes in which "an offender made a racist comment against a victim", and a third crime when "an offender told a victim to go back to their own country".
Merseyside Police recorded 11 hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020, along with 31 hate crimes in 2019 and 33 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included an offender who ran off with a person's face mask after an argument in the street, before the offender returned and punched the victim in the face.
Another recorded crime in 2020 saw an offender telling a woman she "will pass on the COVID-19 virus", with the woman believing the comment was made due to her ethnicity.
A family also had racist abuse directed at them in the street by a group of female youths this year, the force said.
The Metropolitan Police recorded 63 hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020, compared to 76 in 2019 and 83 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included 14 violence against the person offences as well as robbery, theft, burglary, criminal damage and public order offences.
Norfolk Police said it had not recorded any hate crimes where the victim identified as Chinese in the first three months of 2020, but recorded three crimes in 2019 and eight in 2018.
North Wales Police said it had not recorded any hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, but recorded five in 2019 and four in 2018.
North Yorkshire Police recorded two hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, up from one in 2019 and one in 2018.
The force provided details of the crimes but did not say which each years they occurred.
They included offences of racial abuse, threats of violence and spitting. Another crime saw a victim being told to "go back to your own country" and headbutted.
Northamptonshire Police said it recorded seven hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared to five in the whole of 2019 and seven in 2018.
The force refused to provide any details of the offences, saying "due to the low numbers and risk of identification".
Northumbria Police recorded 14 hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared with 18 crimes throughout the whole of 2019 and 14 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included three assaults, two harassment offences and nine offences of causing public fear, alarm or distress.
Sky News did not receive a response from Nottinghamshire Police.
Sky News did not receive a response from Police Scotland.
Sky News did not receive a response from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
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South Yorkshire Police recorded 23 hates crimes against victims whose appearance was Chinese, Japanese or South East Asian in the first three months of 2020, compared to 36 crimes in 2019 and 31 in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included four assaults, two harassment offences, three malicious communications offences and 14 offences of causing public fear, alarm or distress.
South Wales Police recorded four hates crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared to nine crimes in 2019 and four in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included two offences of malicious communications and two offences of racially or religiously aggravated public fear, alarm or distress.
Staffordshire Police recorded four hates crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared to three crimes in 2019 and 11 in 2018.
The four hate crimes recorded in 2020 were offences of public order/racially or religiously aggravated harassment, alarm or distress.
Suffolk Police recorded four hate crimes where the victim identified as Chinese in the first three months of 2020, compared with eight in 2019 and one in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 included an offence of stalking and harassment and three offences of racially or religiously aggravated public fear.
Surrey Police recorded two hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020, compared with three in 2019 and one in 2018.
The force said the crimes fell into the following categories; intentional harassment alarm or distress, ABH, common assault and sending letters with intent to cause distress or anxiety, but it did not say which years they occurred.
Sussex Police recorded two hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared with 10 in 2019 and eight in 2018.
Crimes in 2020 were racially or religiously aggravated public fear, alarm or distress and another offence of public fear, alarm or distress.
Thames Valley Police refused to reveal the number of hate crimes against Chinese victims, saying retrieving the data would cost too much and take too much time.
The force said the information "is not held in an easily retrievable format".
Warwickshire Police refused to reveal the number of hate crimes against Chinese victims, saying retrieving the information would take too much time.
West Mercia Police recorded three hate crimes against Chinese victims in the first three months of 2020, compared with 11 crimes in 2019 and seven in 2018.
The three crimes in 2020 were racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress.
West Midlands Police recorded one hate crime against a Chinese victim in the first three months of 2020, compared with six crimes in 2019 and seven in 2018.
The crime recorded in 2020 was racially/religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress.
West Yorkshire Police said it needed more time to reveal the number of hate crimes recorded against Chinese victims.
Wiltshire Police said it had no record of any hate crimes against Chinese victims, saying it was not a mandatory requirement for victims to provide details of their race or nationality to the force.