news--2020-06-19--Black Lives Matter: Police ready for 'large crowds' at London anti-racism protests

Large crowds are expected at anti-racism protests in London this weekend , with police urging demonstrators to discourage violence and to socially distance .
Protests in support of the Black Lives Matter ( BLM ) movement have taken place in the capital and across the UK since the killing of George Floyd in the US .
The vast majority of people attending have been peaceful .
However , at a counter-protest last weekend , demonstrators - some from far-right groups - clashed with police and BLM protesters near Westminster and Trafalgar Square .
Scotland Yard 's Commander Alex Murray said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at protests since the end of May .
`` I really hope we 're not going to see what we saw last weekend or the weekend before , '' he said .
`` We do n't have any information there 's anyone from the right wing attending but we have got information that large crowds of people will be attending . ''
Coronavirus lockdown regulations still prohibit gatherings of more than six people in England .
`` There 's a health crisis going on , '' said Mr Murray .
`` We want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't want people to come to London and get infected .
So we 'd encourage people to stay at home .
`` If you feel compelled to protest , please use your influence and encourage other protesters not to be violent and to remain safe and socially distanced .
`` We understand people want their voice heard and nobody really wants violence and it 's only a small minority who spoil it for each other and hurt the police . ''
A 5pm curfew was among measures put in place ahead of last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clashes between rival protesters .
Monuments were boarded up , including the statue of Sir Winston Churchill , which had previously been daubed with graffiti accusing the wartime prime minister of being a racist .
While the protective covers have now been removed , police have no plans to position large numbers of officers around them .
`` We wo n't have pre-prepared cordons around statues , but we will act on intelligence and information and if we hear something like that is planned then we would act as the public would expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The police have never asked for those statues to be protected .
That 's a matter for the local authority .
Our focus is on reducing violence and protecting the public , protecting citizens .
`` But we will also investigate if criminal damage takes place .
So we will prevent violence and we 'll also try to prevent criminal damage . ''
Mr Floyd died when a police officer held him down by pressing his knee into his neck for nearly nine minutes in Minneapolis on 25 May .
Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protesters - 128 of whom were detained during the counter-demonstration on 13 June - and released 35 pictures of people they want to speak to .
Andrew Banks , 28 , from Essex , was jailed for two weeks on Monday after admitting urinating next to a memorial to PC Keith Palmer , who was stabbed to death in the 2017 Westminster terror attack .
Daniel John Allan , 35 , and James Meikle , 38 , were also remanded in custody on Monday after admitting attacking police .

Large crowds are expected at anti-racism protests in London this weekend, with police urging demonstrators to discourage violence and to socially distance.
Protests in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement have taken place in the capital and across the UK since the killing of George Floyd in the US.
The vast majority of people attending have been peaceful.
However, at a counter-protest last weekend, demonstrators - some from far-right groups - clashed with police and BLM protesters near Westminster and Trafalgar Square.
Scotland Yard's Commander Alex Murray said more than 100 officers had been assaulted at protests since the end of May.
"I really hope we're not going to see what we saw last weekend or the weekend before," he said.
"We don't have any information there's anyone from the right wing attending but we have got information that large crowds of people will be attending."
Coronavirus lockdown regulations still prohibit gatherings of more than six people in England.
"There's a health crisis going on," said Mr Murray.
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"We want people to be safe, we don't want people to come to London and get infected. So we'd encourage people to stay at home.
Image: Police were confronted by counter-protesters in Whitehall on 16 June
"If you feel compelled to protest, please use your influence and encourage other protesters not to be violent and to remain safe and socially distanced.
"We understand people want their voice heard and nobody really wants violence and it's only a small minority who spoil it for each other and hurt the police."
A 5pm curfew was among measures put in place ahead of last weekend's protests, with fears of clashes between rival protesters.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:48 7 June: Police run from crowds in London protest
Monuments were boarded up, including the statue of Sir Winston Churchill, which had previously been daubed with graffiti accusing the wartime prime minister of being a racist.
While the protective covers have now been removed, police have no plans to position large numbers of officers around them.
"We won't have pre-prepared cordons around statues, but we will act on intelligence and information and if we hear something like that is planned then we would act as the public would expect us to," said Mr Murray.
"The police have never asked for those statues to be protected. That's a matter for the local authority. Our focus is on reducing violence and protecting the public, protecting citizens.
"But we will also investigate if criminal damage takes place. So we will prevent violence and we'll also try to prevent criminal damage."
Mr Floyd died when a police officer held him down by pressing his knee into his neck for nearly nine minutes in Minneapolis on 25 May.
Scotland Yard's officers have arrested almost 230 protesters - 128 of whom were detained during the counter-demonstration on 13 June - and released 35 pictures of people they want to speak to.
Andrew Banks, 28, from Essex, was jailed for two weeks on Monday after admitting urinating next to a memorial to PC Keith Palmer, who was stabbed to death in the 2017 Westminster terror attack.
Daniel John Allan, 35, and James Meikle, 38, were also remanded in custody on Monday after admitting attacking police.


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Dizzee Rascal, Kaiser Chiefs and The Streets in UK's first drive-in shows

Dizzee Rascal , Kaiser Chiefs and The Streets are set to feature in a series of drive-in concerts across the UK .
A host of artists have been forced to cancel shows due to coronavirus lockdown restrictions and the prospect of large gatherings being allowed again is thought to be some way off .
But Live Nation Entertainment , which stages festivals such as Wireless and Reading and Leeds , says its series of live events will allow people to enjoy performances from the safety of their cars .
They will be staged across 12 UK venues in cities including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Live Nation promoter Peter Taylor said the 'Utilita Live From The Drive-In ' shows would allow artists to get back on stage again .
`` You know we can do all of these streams , we can do everything on Facebook ... which is great .
But there is nothing that compares to you seeing your favourite musician or band on that stage , '' he said .
Other artists perfroming at the shows include Ash , Beverley Knight , Bjorn Again , Brand New Heavies , Camp Bestival Live , Cream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Jack Savoretti , Lightning Seeds and Nathan Dawe .
Also featuring will be Reggae Roast Vs Gentleman 's Dub Club , Russell Watson , Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason , Sigala , Skindred , The Snuts , The Zutons and Tony Hadley .
Alongside the musicians lined up for gigs , there will also be a science show - Brainiac Live .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Organisers say a maximum of 300 cars will be allowed at each show , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make some profound changes to the way they do things .
`` That 's going to feel very kind of imitate in terms of what we 're used to if you go into an arena or stadium , '' said Mr Taylor .
`` We have our artists who are working to a very different financial model than what they normally would .
A lot of them are doing kind of different versions of their show.
`` He said the concept would provide a good source of employment for the whole industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure that our eco-system can be supported as much as possible . ''
Mr Taylor said the company had been able to postpone some major tours and shows until 2020 , including those from musicians such as Harry Styles and Dua Lipa .
Tickets will go on sale here for the shows on the Live Nation website from 22 June at 10am .

Dizzee Rascal, Kaiser Chiefs and The Streets are set to feature in a series of drive-in concerts across the UK.
A host of artists have been forced to cancel shows due to coronavirus lockdown restrictions and the prospect of large gatherings being allowed again is thought to be some way off.
But Live Nation Entertainment, which stages festivals such as Wireless and Reading and Leeds, says its series of live events will allow people to enjoy performances from the safety of their cars.
Image: Ricky Wilson of the Kaiser Chiefs performing at Apollo Manchester
They will be staged across 12 UK venues in cities including London, Birmingham and Edinburgh this summer.
Live Nation promoter Peter Taylor said the 'Utilita Live From The Drive-In' shows would allow artists to get back on stage again.
"You know we can do all of these streams, we can do everything on Facebook... which is great. But there is nothing that compares to you seeing your favourite musician or band on that stage," he said.
Other artists perfroming at the shows include Ash, Beverley Knight, Bjorn Again, Brand New Heavies, Camp Bestival Live, Cream Classical Ibiza, Embrace, Gary Numan, Jack Savoretti, Lightning Seeds and Nathan Dawe.
Also featuring will be Reggae Roast Vs Gentleman's Dub Club, Russell Watson, Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason, Sigala, Skindred, The Snuts, The Zutons and Tony Hadley.
Alongside the musicians lined up for gigs, there will also be a science show - Brainiac Live.
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:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Organisers say a maximum of 300 cars will be allowed at each show, meaning both organisers and artists have had to make some profound changes to the way they do things.
"That's going to feel very kind of imitate in terms of what we're used to if you go into an arena or stadium," said Mr Taylor.
"We have our artists who are working to a very different financial model than what they normally would. A lot of them are doing kind of different versions of their show. "
Image: Mike Skinner from The Streets performs in New Zealand in 2019
He said the concept would provide a good source of employment for the whole industry: "It's been about making sure that our eco-system can be supported as much as possible."
Mr Taylor said the company had been able to postpone some major tours and shows until 2020, including those from musicians such as Harry Styles and Dua Lipa.
Tickets will go on sale here for the shows on the Live Nation website from 22 June at 10am.


news--2020-06-27--Coronavirus: Pub chain says it 'cannot wait for the government' and will reopen on 4 July

The boss of a pub chain has said he will be reopening all of its venues on 4 July because delaying the move would put jobs at risk .
Peter Borg-Neal , founder and chief executive of Oakman Inns , said he plans to open all 28 of his pubs across the South East and the Midlands .
The government 's roadmap out of the coronavirus lockdown says pubs , hairdressers and beauty salons will only be able to open from that date at the very earliest , providing conditions are met .
: : Listen to the All Out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But Mr Borg-Neal has `` challenged the Prime Minister to tell him otherwise '' and says his plans will not change unless Boris Johnson directly intervenes .
He tweeted : `` So @ OakmanInns will be opening all sites on the 4 July .
It would irresponsible for us to delay as we would be putting jobs at risk .
`` To open without proper forward planning would also be wrong .
We can not wait for the Government to make a decision . ''
The chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to be some reckless rebel '' .
He said the chain needs three weeks to be able to train furloughed staff on its COVID-19 safety measures and order food and drink supplies .
Pictures of Oakman pub The Betsey Wynne in Swanbourne , Buckinghamshire , show the efforts the chain has put in to making its premises `` COVID-secure '' .
Tables will be separated by glass screens , customers will order food and drink electronically using an app , and hand sanitizers will be widely available .
Menus will also be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus , Mr Borg-Neal told Sky News last month .
Oakman Inns had to put 900 of its 1,000 staff on furlough when the government ordered pubs in March .
Pub owners are now putting pressure on ministers to reduce social distancing from 2m to 1m so more staff can work at once and they can cater to more customers .
Oakman Inns ' chief operating officer Dermot King said pubs with beer gardens are more likely to survive the devastating economic downturn caused by the pandemic .
He said : `` For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those who do n't have significant outdoor areas , it simply will not be viable to open with the 2m rule .
`` It 's no exaggeration to say that if the government does anything further to prevent pubs , bars and restaurants from opening on July 4 , and does n't reduce social distancing from 2m to 1m , then there will be large numbers of job losses in the hospitality sector - as well as premises that probably never open again . ''
In a statement , the Department for Business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We want to be able to reopen pubs , bars , restaurants and cafes as soon as possible and it remains our ambition to do so from the beginning of July , but it must be safe so we do not risk a second wave of this virus .
`` We are working with the sector at pace to develop guidance on how these businesses can reopen safely , and this will be published ahead of time to allow them to prepare . ''

The boss of a pub chain has said he will be reopening all of its venues on 4 July because delaying the move would put jobs at risk.
Peter Borg-Neal, founder and chief executive of Oakman Inns, said he plans to open all 28 of his pubs across the South East and the Midlands.
The government's roadmap out of the coronavirus lockdown says pubs, hairdressers and beauty salons will only be able to open from that date at the very earliest, providing conditions are met.
Image: At one site, the Betsey Wynne in Buckinghamshire, measures are already in place to stem the spread of coronavirus
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But Mr Borg-Neal has "challenged the Prime Minister to tell him otherwise" and says his plans will not change unless Boris Johnson directly intervenes.
He tweeted: "So @OakmanInns will be opening all sites on the 4 July. It would irresponsible for us to delay as we would be putting jobs at risk.
"To open without proper forward planning would also be wrong. We cannot wait for the Government to make a decision."
The chief executive told the BBC he is "not trying to be some reckless rebel".
He said the chain needs three weeks to be able to train furloughed staff on its COVID-19 safety measures and order food and drink supplies.
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Pictures of Oakman pub The Betsey Wynne in Swanbourne, Buckinghamshire, show the efforts the chain has put in to making its premises "COVID-secure".
Image: Oakman Inns founder Peter Borg-Neal says he 'cannot wait for the government to make a decision' on pubs
Tables will be separated by glass screens, customers will order food and drink electronically using an app, and hand sanitizers will be widely available.
Menus will also be disposable to avoid the spread of the virus, Mr Borg-Neal told Sky News last month.
Oakman Inns had to put 900 of its 1,000 staff on furlough when the government ordered pubs in March.
Image: Chefs are pictured wearing visors and customers will only be able to order food and drink via an app
Pub owners are now putting pressure on ministers to reduce social distancing from 2m to 1m so more staff can work at once and they can cater to more customers.
Oakman Inns' chief operating officer Dermot King said pubs with beer gardens are more likely to survive the devastating economic downturn caused by the pandemic.
He said: "For many smaller premises, as well as those who don't have significant outdoor areas, it simply will not be viable to open with the 2m rule.
Image: The government says pubs will be open on 4 July 'at the earliest'
"It's no exaggeration to say that if the government does anything further to prevent pubs, bars and restaurants from opening on July 4, and doesn't reduce social distancing from 2m to 1m, then there will be large numbers of job losses in the hospitality sector - as well as premises that probably never open again."
In a statement, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said: "We want to be able to reopen pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes as soon as possible and it remains our ambition to do so from the beginning of July, but it must be safe so we do not risk a second wave of this virus.
"We are working with the sector at pace to develop guidance on how these businesses can reopen safely, and this will be published ahead of time to allow them to prepare."


news--2020-06-19--Coronavirus: Black men twice as likely to die with COVID-19 than white men - official figures

Men from black ethnic backgrounds are twice as likely to die with COVID-19 than white males , according to new figures .
For the first time the data took into account where people live , population density , deprivation and whether people come from crowded multi-generational households .
Men of Bangladeshi , Pakistani and Indian ethnic backgrounds also had a significantly higher risk of death involving coronavirus ( 1.5 and 1.6 times respectively ) than white males , the ONS found .
For females in Bangladeshi or Pakistani , Indian , Chinese and mixed ethnic groups , the risk of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nick Stripe of the ONS said : `` Analysis continues to show that people from a black ethnic background are at a greater risk of death involving COVID-19 than all other ethnic groups .
`` The ONS will continue to research this unexplained increased risk of death , examining the impact of other health conditions . ''
This comes days after a report by Public Health England ( PHE ) found the disproportionate impact of coronavirus the BAME community was due - in part - to racism and social and economic inequalities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ figures found Muslim males have the highest rates of death involving COVID-19 among all groups , with a risk of dying that is 2.5 times higher than males who have no religion .
The age-adjusted mortality rate for Muslim males in England and Wales during the first few months of the coronavirus outbreak was 198.9 deaths per 100,000 people , and for females 98.2 deaths per 100,000 .
By contrast , those identifying with `` no religion '' - based on responses in the 2011 Census - had the lowest rate of death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 47.9 deaths per 100,000 females .
Those who identified as Jewish at the time of the 2011 Census showed an increased risk of a death involving COVID-19 compared with the Christian population .
Jewish males had a mortality rate of 187.9 deaths per 100,000 , which was roughly twice the risk of Christian males ( 92.6 deaths per 100,000 ) .
For Jewish females , the rate was 94.3 deaths per 100,000 , compared with 54.6 deaths per 100,000 for Christian females .
The rate for Hindu males was found to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Sikh males it was 128.6 .
For Hindu females the rate was 93.3 , and for Sikh females it was 69.3 .
Religion is not recorded on somebody 's death certificate , so the ONS used information from the 2011 Census to determine religious group and other demographic factors .
Analysis : It confirms what we knew - but it 's still shocking The latest data from ONS is but also is n't shocking .
It further confirms the issue we have known for over two months now , that people from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backgrounds are at a much greater risk of catching and dying with COVID-19 .
There have been a number of reports and data collections which have all come to this conclusion , even a government commissioned review which was carried out by Public Health England .
This analysis from ONS , which compares deaths to the 2011 census , takes into account a number of factors which gives us a clearer picture .
The data has adjusted for deprivation , multi-generational households ( for the first time ) and where people live and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that still this community which has been hurting ever since the start of the outbreak are at greater risk .
The adjustments give us some idea of the factors behind why this could be the case .
BAME people do tend to live in more deprived and heavily populated areas , like London and Birmingham , both cities which have seen high COVID death rates .
Many live in overcrowded and multi-generational households , an issue we raised from the beginning , but a cultural issue which has clearly had a detrimental effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Bangladeshi households are overcrowded .
And importantly , BAME people have been at work during this crisis whether it 's as , taxi drivers , or security guards or in the healthcare setting - they have been vulnerable to catching the disease and research shows once they do they 're at increased chance of ending up in intensive care and dying .
The data does n't tell us anything particularly new .
It 's an addition to the dire situation BAME people have been in during this pandemic But what it does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take some action and implement policy to protect this community in light of a second wave .

Men from black ethnic backgrounds are twice as likely to die with COVID-19 than white males, according to new figures.
For the first time the data took into account where people live, population density, deprivation and whether people come from crowded multi-generational households.
Men of Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Indian ethnic backgrounds also had a significantly higher risk of death involving coronavirus (1.5 and 1.6 times respectively) than white males, the ONS found.
Image: The data took several factors into account, including location, population density and deprivation
For females in Bangladeshi or Pakistani, Indian, Chinese and mixed ethnic groups, the risk of death was equivalent to white females.
Nick Stripe of the ONS said: "Analysis continues to show that people from a black ethnic background are at a greater risk of death involving COVID-19 than all other ethnic groups.
"The ONS will continue to research this unexplained increased risk of death, examining the impact of other health conditions."
This comes days after a report by Public Health England (PHE) found the disproportionate impact of coronavirus the BAME community was due - in part - to racism and social and economic inequalities.
Image: Elements of the report were previously seen by Sky News
When taking into account religion, the figures found Muslim males have the highest rates of death involving COVID-19 among all groups, with a risk of dying that is 2.5 times higher than males who have no religion.
The age-adjusted mortality rate for Muslim males in England and Wales during the first few months of the coronavirus outbreak was 198.9 deaths per 100,000 people, and for females 98.2 deaths per 100,000.
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By contrast, those identifying with "no religion" - based on responses in the 2011 Census - had the lowest rate of death, with 80.7 deaths per 100,000 males and 47.9 deaths per 100,000 females.
Those who identified as Jewish at the time of the 2011 Census showed an increased risk of a death involving COVID-19 compared with the Christian population.
Jewish males had a mortality rate of 187.9 deaths per 100,000, which was roughly twice the risk of Christian males (92.6 deaths per 100,000).
Image: Some of those from BAME backgrounds who have died with coronavirus in the UK
For Jewish females, the rate was 94.3 deaths per 100,000, compared with 54.6 deaths per 100,000 for Christian females.
The rate for Hindu males was found to be 154.8 deaths per 100,000 people, while for Sikh males it was 128.6.
For Hindu females the rate was 93.3, and for Sikh females it was 69.3.
Religion is not recorded on somebody's death certificate, so the ONS used information from the 2011 Census to determine religious group and other demographic factors.
Analysis: It confirms what we knew - but it's still shocking
By Inzamam Rashid
The latest data from ONS is but also isn't shocking. It further confirms the issue we have known for over two months now, that people from a black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are at a much greater risk of catching and dying with COVID-19. There have been a number of reports and data collections which have all come to this conclusion, even a government commissioned review which was carried out by Public Health England.
This analysis from ONS, which compares deaths to the 2011 census, takes into account a number of factors which gives us a clearer picture. The data has adjusted for deprivation, multi-generational households (for the first time) and where people live and how busy it is and that shows that still this community which has been hurting ever since the start of the outbreak are at greater risk.
The adjustments give us some idea of the factors behind why this could be the case. BAME people do tend to live in more deprived and heavily populated areas, like London and Birmingham, both cities which have seen high COVID death rates.
Many live in overcrowded and multi-generational households, an issue we raised from the beginning, but a cultural issue which has clearly had a detrimental effect during the pandemic. Almost 30% of Bangladeshi households are overcrowded.
And importantly, BAME people have been at work during this crisis whether it's as, taxi drivers, or security guards or in the healthcare setting - they have been vulnerable to catching the disease and research shows once they do they're at increased chance of ending up in intensive care and dying.
The data doesn't tell us anything particularly new. It's an addition to the dire situation BAME people have been in during this pandemic But what it does do is add pressure on the government to take some action and implement policy to protect this community in light of a second wave.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Aviation sector renews plea for government aid

Britain 's aviation industry will renew its bid for emergency government aid , urging ministers to agree `` better coordinated '' measures to prevent the loss of tens of thousands of manufacturing and service sector jobs .
Sky News understands that a joint statement by ADS , which represents aerospace manufacturers , Airlines UK and the Airport Operators ' Association to be released in the coming days will call for an extension - both in duration and scope - of the Treasury 's range of financial support schemes .
The trade associations , whose members include Rolls-Royce Holdings , Heathrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that while `` other countries are acting decisively , with unprecedented financial support for airports and airlines in the US , Australia , France , Norway and many other countries… the UK aviation , aerospace and travel sectors are at risk of being left behind in the recovery '' .
According to a copy of their joint statement , the bodies want ministers to : extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme beyond the end of May ; include the aviation sector in the business rates exemption given to companies in the hospitality and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of lending programmes unveiled for thousands of businesses .
They are also seeking to ensure that the government works with its counterparts `` to ensure a coordinated approach is taken to the lifting of travel restrictions and other related measures to boost consumer confidence '' .
The aviation industry has been decimated by the coronavirus pandemic , resulting in hundreds of billions of dollars of lost revenue and leaving many companies on the brink of financial ruin .
ACI Europe , a trade association , forecast this week that overall passenger numbers could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2020 , with some industry experts predicting that the UK figure could be as high as 50 % .
Some carriers , including Virgin Atlantic Airways , are now in talks with the government about direct taxpayer support .
`` Requests for ticket refunds are outnumbering new flight bookings , our tourism industry lies dormant as visitors rightly stay at home and aerospace manufacturing faces challenges to sustain jobs and cashflow for the duration of this crisis , '' the bodies will say .
Not only are 1.6 million jobs and £92bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the tourism sectors , aviation is also one of the engines of the UK economy , enabling other businesses to reach customers , trade goods and build new relationships . ''
Rishi Sunak , the chancellor , wrote to airlines last month to say that `` bespoke '' state aid would be available `` only as a last resort '' .
Industry figures have expressed disappointment with the Treasury 's stance and at the Foreign Office 's recent advice to UK citizens that there would be `` indefinite '' guidance against overseas @ @

Britain's aviation industry will renew its bid for emergency government aid, urging ministers to agree "better coordinated" measures to prevent the loss of tens of thousands of manufacturing and service sector jobs.
Sky News understands that a joint statement by ADS, which represents aerospace manufacturers, Airlines UK and the Airport Operators' Association to be released in the coming days will call for an extension - both in duration and scope - of the Treasury's range of financial support schemes.
The trade associations, whose members include Rolls-Royce Holdings, Heathrow Airport and British Airways, will argue that while "other countries are acting decisively, with unprecedented financial support for airports and airlines in the US, Australia, France, Norway and many other countries… the UK aviation, aerospace and travel sectors are at risk of being left behind in the recovery".
According to a copy of their joint statement, the bodies want ministers to: extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme beyond the end of May; include the aviation sector in the business rates exemption given to companies in the hospitality and retail sectors; and increase the flexibility of lending programmes unveiled for thousands of businesses.
They are also seeking to ensure that the government works with its counterparts "to ensure a coordinated approach is taken to the lifting of travel restrictions and other related measures to boost consumer confidence".
The aviation industry has been decimated by the coronavirus pandemic, resulting in hundreds of billions of dollars of lost revenue and leaving many companies on the brink of financial ruin.
ACI Europe, a trade association, forecast this week that overall passenger numbers could be down by 35% across Europe in 2020, with some industry experts predicting that the UK figure could be as high as 50%.
Some carriers, including Virgin Atlantic Airways, are now in talks with the government about direct taxpayer support.
"Requests for ticket refunds are outnumbering new flight bookings, our tourism industry lies dormant as visitors rightly stay at home and aerospace manufacturing faces challenges to sustain jobs and cashflow for the duration of this crisis," the bodies will say.
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Not only are 1.6 million jobs and £92bn in GDP dependent on aviation, aerospace and the tourism sectors, aviation is also one of the engines of the UK economy, enabling other businesses to reach customers, trade goods and build new relationships."
Rishi Sunak, the chancellor, wrote to airlines last month to say that "bespoke" state aid would be available "only as a last resort".
Industry figures have expressed disappointment with the Treasury's stance and at the Foreign Office's recent advice to UK citizens that there would be "indefinite" guidance against overseas travel.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: City chiefs spearhead taskforce for debt-ravaged firms

The City grandee who chairs Aviva , the FTSE-100 insurer , is to spearhead a taskforce being set up to examine ways of recapitalising thousands of companies forced to take on huge debts to survive the coronavirus pandemic .
Sky News has learnt that Sir Adrian Montague is to chair a new working group assembled by TheCityUK , the financial and professional services trade association .
The so-called Recapitalisation Group is expected to play a critical role in formulating a way forward for businesses which emerge from the COVID-19 crisis saddled with debt .
Sir Adrian was picked for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council , but his former job as chairman of 3i Group , the listed private equity investor , will be particularly valuable , according to banking sources .
3i was created after the Second World War as the Industrial and Commercial Finance Corporation to back small and medium-sized companies that could not access public equity markets .
Sources said on Friday that Omar Ali , EY 's financial services managing partner and chair of the trade body 's work on long-term competitiveness , would lead the technical aspects of the new group .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Mr Ali would draw on their network of relationships across banking , fintech , insurance and asset management - all of which would play a role in any recapitalisation plan .
The new working group is expected to evaluate whether the mass of companies which come out of the crisis with unsustainable debts require wholesale recalibration of their capital structures .
That could emerge in the form of equity which ranks above that of existing shareholders , retail bonds or another form of equity .
The scope of the working group will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government 's emergency aid programmes - such as the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme ( CBILS ) - but will also encompass businesses that did not qualify or those which took on standard commercial loans .
Andrew Bailey , the Bank of England governor , has asked to be kept informed about the progress of the project .
People close to it said it was not an exercise to `` bail out '' struggling businesses .
`` This work is about the future on the other side of this crisis , not rescuing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Insiders pointed out that many of the business-owners which were being forced to borrow to see them through the crisis had never needed debt facilities before .
`` There will be thousands of companies which come out of this drowning in debt , and that will leave huge scars , '' said one .
`` They will need an alternative solution , and that is what the working group wants to help with . ''
Sources said a number of other trade bodies , including UK Finance , were also involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rishi Sunak , the chancellor , has launched several bailout initiatives to keep British industry alive during the pandemic .
The Covid Corporate Financing Facility has been set up to enable larger companies with an investment-grade credit rating to raise liquidity by selling their commercial paper to the Bank of England .
CBILS , meanwhile , is aimed at companies with a turnover of up to £45m , offering interest-free and fee-free loans from participating banks for the first 12 months .
A version of that scheme for businesses with sales of up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off the ground this month .
The chancellor has also unveiled a job retention scheme enabling employers to 'furlough ' their workers , with up to 80 % of their wages paid by the state until the end of May .
There remain gaps , however , in the provision of emergency support , with large companies that do not have a credit rating - particularly in industries such as aviation and retail - complaining that they have been omitted from the Treasury 's thinking .
Many start-ups have bemoaned their exclusion from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'viable ' companies that were profitable before the coronavirus crisis .
TheCityUK , Aviva and EY declined to comment on Friday night .

The City grandee who chairs Aviva, the FTSE-100 insurer, is to spearhead a taskforce being set up to examine ways of recapitalising thousands of companies forced to take on huge debts to survive the coronavirus pandemic.
Sky News has learnt that Sir Adrian Montague is to chair a new working group assembled by TheCityUK, the financial and professional services trade association.
The so-called Recapitalisation Group is expected to play a critical role in formulating a way forward for businesses which emerge from the COVID-19 crisis saddled with debt.
Sir Adrian was picked for the role because he chairs TheCityUK's leadership council, but his former job as chairman of 3i Group, the listed private equity investor, will be particularly valuable, according to banking sources.
3i was created after the Second World War as the Industrial and Commercial Finance Corporation to back small and medium-sized companies that could not access public equity markets.
Sources said on Friday that Omar Ali, EY's financial services managing partner and chair of the trade body's work on long-term competitiveness, would lead the technical aspects of the new group.
One insider pointed out that Sir Adrian and Mr Ali would draw on their network of relationships across banking, fintech, insurance and asset management - all of which would play a role in any recapitalisation plan.
The new working group is expected to evaluate whether the mass of companies which come out of the crisis with unsustainable debts require wholesale recalibration of their capital structures.
That could emerge in the form of equity which ranks above that of existing shareholders, retail bonds or another form of equity.
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The scope of the working group will include both those which have utilised the government's emergency aid programmes - such as the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) - but will also encompass businesses that did not qualify or those which took on standard commercial loans.
Andrew Bailey, the Bank of England governor, has asked to be kept informed about the progress of the project.
People close to it said it was not an exercise to "bail out" struggling businesses.
"This work is about the future on the other side of this crisis, not rescuing companies during it," said one.
Insiders pointed out that many of the business-owners which were being forced to borrow to see them through the crisis had never needed debt facilities before.
"There will be thousands of companies which come out of this drowning in debt, and that will leave huge scars," said one.
"They will need an alternative solution, and that is what the working group wants to help with."
Sources said a number of other trade bodies, including UK Finance, were also involved in the discussion about large-scale corporate recapitalisations.
Rishi Sunak, the chancellor, has launched several bailout initiatives to keep British industry alive during the pandemic.
The Covid Corporate Financing Facility has been set up to enable larger companies with an investment-grade credit rating to raise liquidity by selling their commercial paper to the Bank of England.
CBILS, meanwhile, is aimed at companies with a turnover of up to £45m, offering interest-free and fee-free loans from participating banks for the first 12 months.
A version of that scheme for businesses with sales of up to £500m is also expected to get off the ground this month.
The chancellor has also unveiled a job retention scheme enabling employers to 'furlough' their workers, with up to 80% of their wages paid by the state until the end of May.
There remain gaps, however, in the provision of emergency support, with large companies that do not have a credit rating - particularly in industries such as aviation and retail - complaining that they have been omitted from the Treasury's thinking.
Many start-ups have bemoaned their exclusion from CBILS, because it is earmarked for 'viable' companies that were profitable before the coronavirus crisis.
TheCityUK, Aviva and EY declined to comment on Friday night.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Big audiences for online church services amid UK lockdown

Large numbers of people are connecting with their faith online during the coronavirus lockdown , clergy have told Sky News .
Like all places of worship , churches across the country are closed this Easter because of restrictions on social gatherings to stop the spread of COVID-19 .
It means ministers are now recording their sermons or streaming them instead .
David Walker , the Bishop of Manchester , had a huge response to his service last weekend and has found that social distancing appears to have led people to re-engage with their faith .
He told Sky News : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday which was put out over the Church of England 's website and Facebook page , and when we last looked , over 400,000 people had watched that service .
`` ( It ) beats any church congregation I 've had in the past comfortably , and is a sense of how people do seem to want to be able to connect with worship at a time like this . ''
All Saints Parish Church in St Ives , Cambridgeshire , would usually be alive with music and prayer this week but instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shut .
Its vicar , Reverend Mark Amey , is also doing his services online , and has seen viewing numbers in triple figures , compared to the dozen or so he might see in church every week .
He told us the outbreak has had an enormous impact during what would normally be the busiest week of the year .
`` Everything is different , '' he said .
`` We 're not having the pastoral contact with people . ''
He added : `` Normally in Holy Week we 'd run @ @ @ @ @ @ @ church ( including ) the Maundy Thursday afternoon service with foot washing , and on Good Friday the focus on the cross where people here traditionally come up and kiss the cross . ''
The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have told clergy not to enter churches even on their own to pray or stream services over Easter .
In an online video , the Archbishop of Canterbury stressed why the church should be setting a good example and encouraging people not to congregate and stay at home .
`` Jesus says where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I am there with them , '' he said .
`` And they do n't actually have to be physically gathered - virtually gathered does very well indeed .
Jesus is quite up to date with all this stuff . ''
This weekend , the Prince of Wales will feature in the digital services being produced by Westminster Abbey and Canterbury Cathedral .
Prince Charles has recorded the Gospel reading for Easter Day .
While congregations are being kept apart , the spirit of giving has not gone away .
The food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Easter eggs , and the number of families and elderly people they deliver food to has doubled since the outbreak .
Co-ordinator Karen Clapp told us a spirit of togetherness has boosted morale .
`` I think people take comfort knowing they 're not forgotten , not alone , '' she said .
`` This is affecting absolutely everybody - even the prime minister .
There 's been so much division in the country and I think it 's good that people understand that they 're not alone .
`` People are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's the great British public rallying around as they always do .
It 's amazing - heartwarming as well . ''
In her historic message last Sunday , the Queen said that while social distancing is challenging , it also provides a time for reflection .
`` Though self-isolating may at times be hard , many people of all faiths and of none are discovering that it presents an opportunity to slow down , pause and reflect , in prayer or meditation , '' Her Majesty said .
She was also `` deeply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service at Windsor Castle , where she hands out Maundy money to pensioners , had to be cancelled because of the virus .

Large numbers of people are connecting with their faith online during the coronavirus lockdown, clergy have told Sky News.
Like all places of worship, churches across the country are closed this Easter because of restrictions on social gatherings to stop the spread of COVID-19.
It means ministers are now recording their sermons or streaming them instead.
Image: Vicar Mark Amey would normally be doing several services a day
David Walker, the Bishop of Manchester, had a huge response to his service last weekend and has found that social distancing appears to have led people to re-engage with their faith.
He told Sky News: "I took a service on Palm Sunday which was put out over the Church of England's website and Facebook page, and when we last looked, over 400,000 people had watched that service.
"(It) beats any church congregation I've had in the past comfortably, and is a sense of how people do seem to want to be able to connect with worship at a time like this."
All Saints Parish Church in St Ives, Cambridgeshire, would usually be alive with music and prayer this week but instead it lies silent with the gates locked shut.
Its vicar, Reverend Mark Amey, is also doing his services online, and has seen viewing numbers in triple figures, compared to the dozen or so he might see in church every week.
He told us the outbreak has had an enormous impact during what would normally be the busiest week of the year.
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"Everything is different," he said. "We're not having the pastoral contact with people."
He added: "Normally in Holy Week we'd run at least four services a day in church (including) the Maundy Thursday afternoon service with foot washing, and on Good Friday the focus on the cross where people here traditionally come up and kiss the cross."
The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have told clergy not to enter churches even on their own to pray or stream services over Easter.
In an online video, the Archbishop of Canterbury stressed why the church should be setting a good example and encouraging people not to congregate and stay at home.
"Jesus says where two or three gather in my name, I am there with them," he said.
"And they don't actually have to be physically gathered - virtually gathered does very well indeed. Jesus is quite up to date with all this stuff."
This weekend, the Prince of Wales will feature in the digital services being produced by Westminster Abbey and Canterbury Cathedral. Prince Charles has recorded the Gospel reading for Easter Day.
While congregations are being kept apart, the spirit of giving has not gone away.
The food bank at All Saints has been inundated with Easter eggs, and the number of families and elderly people they deliver food to has doubled since the outbreak.
Image: Mark Amey's online services are watched by many more people than attend church
Co-ordinator Karen Clapp told us a spirit of togetherness has boosted morale.
"I think people take comfort knowing they're not forgotten, not alone," she said.
"This is affecting absolutely everybody - even the prime minister. There's been so much division in the country and I think it's good that people understand that they're not alone.
"People are coming together to help, and it's the great British public rallying around as they always do. It's amazing - heartwarming as well."
In her historic message last Sunday, the Queen said that while social distancing is challenging, it also provides a time for reflection.
"Though self-isolating may at times be hard, many people of all faiths and of none are discovering that it presents an opportunity to slow down, pause and reflect, in prayer or meditation," Her Majesty said.
She was also "deeply disappointed" that the annual Maundy Thursday service at Windsor Castle, where she hands out Maundy money to pensioners, had to be cancelled because of the virus.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus lingers in air longer than previously thought, scientists warn

Particles carrying the coronavirus can remain in the air longer than previously thought , according to researchers .
Scientists in Finland have released a 3D model showing how coronavirus is transported through extremely small airborne aerosol particles when a person coughs , sneezes or talks .
They said their findings `` emphasise the importance of avoiding busy indoor spaces '' during the COVID-19 pandemic .
The researchers modelled a scenario where a person coughs in an aisle between shelves , like those found in supermarkets .
They found the aerosol cloud spreads outside the immediate vicinity of the coughing person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to several minutes .
`` Someone infected by the coronavirus can cough and walk away but then leave behind extremely small aerosol particles carrying the coronavirus , '' said Ville Vuorinen , assistant professor at Aalto University in Finland .
`` These particles could then end up in the respiratory tract of others in the vicinity . ''
For their study , researchers modelled the airborne movement of aerosol particles smaller than 20 micrometres .
For a dry cough , which is a typical symptom of COVID-19 , the particle size is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Extremely small particles of this size do not sink on the floor , but instead , move along in the air currents or remain floating in the same place , '' the researchers said .
The Finnish scientists said the spread of a virus may slow down or even be suppressed altogether as mobility decreases at `` nodal points '' - places where lots of people gather , such as shops , restaurants and public transport .
They added that avoiding busy indoor areas reduces the risk of droplet infection while in close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main cause of coronavirus infection .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Jussi Sane , chief specialist at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare , said the results of the study highlight the importance of people staying at home if they feel unwell and maintaining `` physical distance with everyone '' .
The study was carried out by Aalto University , the Finnish Meteorological Institute , VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and the University of Helsinki .
The UK government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blitz urging the public to stay at home , not visit friends or family and observe the lockdown rules over the weekend .
Launching the campaign , a spokesman said : `` We are at a crucial moment in preventing further transmission of coronavirus , and so it is vital that we continue following the government 's guidance to stay at home , protect the NHS , and save lives . ''

Particles carrying the coronavirus can remain in the air longer than previously thought, according to researchers.
Scientists in Finland have released a 3D model showing how coronavirus is transported through extremely small airborne aerosol particles when a person coughs, sneezes or talks.
They said their findings "emphasise the importance of avoiding busy indoor spaces" during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The researchers modelled a scenario where a person coughs in an aisle between shelves, like those found in supermarkets.
They found the aerosol cloud spreads outside the immediate vicinity of the coughing person and dilutes - but this can take up to several minutes.
Image: The model shows a person coughing
Image: After a few seconds the particles have spread along the aisle
Image: In a less a minute, the virus particles spread across the aisle
"Someone infected by the coronavirus can cough and walk away but then leave behind extremely small aerosol particles carrying the coronavirus," said Ville Vuorinen, assistant professor at Aalto University in Finland.
"These particles could then end up in the respiratory tract of others in the vicinity."
For their study, researchers modelled the airborne movement of aerosol particles smaller than 20 micrometres.
For a dry cough, which is a typical symptom of COVID-19, the particle size is typically less than 15 micrometres.
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Image: The model shows the spread of the particles after two minutes
Image: The particles could end up in the respiratory tract of others in the vicinity, researchers said
Image: The particles continue to linger after several minutes. Pic: Aalto University
"Extremely small particles of this size do not sink on the floor, but instead, move along in the air currents or remain floating in the same place," the researchers said.
The Finnish scientists said the spread of a virus may slow down or even be suppressed altogether as mobility decreases at "nodal points" - places where lots of people gather, such as shops, restaurants and public transport.
They added that avoiding busy indoor areas reduces the risk of droplet infection while in close proximity to others, which is the main cause of coronavirus infection.
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Jussi Sane, chief specialist at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, said the results of the study highlight the importance of people staying at home if they feel unwell and maintaining "physical distance with everyone".
The study was carried out by Aalto University, the Finnish Meteorological Institute, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and the University of Helsinki.
The UK government has launched a huge Easter holiday publicity blitz urging the public to stay at home, not visit friends or family and observe the lockdown rules over the weekend.
Launching the campaign, a spokesman said: "We are at a crucial moment in preventing further transmission of coronavirus, and so it is vital that we continue following the government's guidance to stay at home, protect the NHS, and save lives."


news--2020-04-08--Coronavirus: Could biometric ID cards offer the UK a lockdown exit strategy?

Identity cards have been mandatory only twice in British history - during the two world wars - moments of enormous national emergency .
Should they be brought in again to deal with the COVID-19 crisis ?
The question is more pressing than you might think .
Although experts are unsure if the UK 's coronavirus curve is beginning to plateau , we will certainly hit the peak soon .
Epidemiologists are unequivocal : Actions during the downward slope and our exit strategy from the lockdown will be the difference between a second wave of infections or getting the economy moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to economic activity involves the use of immunity certificates .
The UK 's health secretary , Matt Hancock , has suggested `` something like an immunity certificate or a wristband '' in the future .
The premise is that those who have already contracted and overcome the virus are no longer at risk of spreading it and should be free to work , and would get some proof of this .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an immunity certification could bring might also introduce dangerous incentives , such as some people trying to contract the virus on purpose .
Dr Edgar Whitley , from the London School of Economics , told Sky News that significant questions remained about antibody testing and immunity .
It is n't completely clear whether antibodies mean a patient is permanently immune to the virus or just temporarily immune to its current form .
For example , mutations in the flu virus require people to get a new jab each year .
Even if this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temporary certifications , Dr Whitley said it would be vital to prevent potentially dangerous abuse of the system .
People could try to sell their certificate to someone who is not immune , as it could bring significant privileges such as exempting them from lockdown restrictions .
Dr Whitley said tying it to the person who had taken the test would be crucial , but that setting up a reliable identity checking system for the whole population could take time .
That is why biometric ID cards have been proposed .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ card system .
The Labour Party controversially attempted to introduce one in 2006 , but it was fraught with challenges and the coalition government scrapped the proposal when it came to power in 2010 .
Theresa May , then the Home Secretary , repealed the legislation , telling parliament : `` The national identity card scheme represents the worst of government .
`` It is intrusive and bullying , ineffective and expensive .
It is an assault on individual liberty which does not promise a greater good . ''
Introducing such a system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way through the devastating coronavirus crisis - would be likely to again face significant opposition .
`` Does the pandemic require infringements on our civil liberties ?
Yes it does , I 'm sitting at home at the moment , '' former Brexit secretary David Davis told Sky News .
`` But there is no need for mandatory biometric ID cards .
They are a solution in search of a problem , and they are deeply problematic themselves . ''

Identity cards have been mandatory only twice in British history - during the two world wars - moments of enormous national emergency.
Should they be brought in again to deal with the COVID-19 crisis?
The question is more pressing than you might think. Although experts are unsure if the UK's coronavirus curve is beginning to plateau, we will certainly hit the peak soon.
Epidemiologists are unequivocal: Actions during the downward slope and our exit strategy from the lockdown will be the difference between a second wave of infections or getting the economy moving again.
One proposal to handle this return to economic activity involves the use of immunity certificates.
The UK's health secretary, Matt Hancock, has suggested "something like an immunity certificate or a wristband" in the future.
The premise is that those who have already contracted and overcome the virus are no longer at risk of spreading it and should be free to work, and would get some proof of this.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But the proposal is problematic.
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The privileges which an immunity certification could bring might also introduce dangerous incentives, such as some people trying to contract the virus on purpose.
Dr Edgar Whitley, from the London School of Economics, told Sky News that significant questions remained about antibody testing and immunity.
It isn't completely clear whether antibodies mean a patient is permanently immune to the virus or just temporarily immune to its current form.
For example, mutations in the flu virus require people to get a new jab each year.
Even if this hurdle could be overcome, perhaps by temporary certifications, Dr Whitley said it would be vital to prevent potentially dangerous abuse of the system.
People could try to sell their certificate to someone who is not immune, as it could bring significant privileges such as exempting them from lockdown restrictions.
Image: New flu vaccines need to be developed each year
Dr Whitley said tying it to the person who had taken the test would be crucial, but that setting up a reliable identity checking system for the whole population could take time.
That is why biometric ID cards have been proposed.
However, the UK doesn't have an identity card system.
The Labour Party controversially attempted to introduce one in 2006, but it was fraught with challenges and the coalition government scrapped the proposal when it came to power in 2010.
Image: The public protested against Labour's ID card scheme
Theresa May, then the Home Secretary, repealed the legislation, telling parliament: "The national identity card scheme represents the worst of government.
"It is intrusive and bullying, ineffective and expensive. It is an assault on individual liberty which does not promise a greater good."
Introducing such a system today - even to help find a way through the devastating coronavirus crisis - would be likely to again face significant opposition.
"Does the pandemic require infringements on our civil liberties? Yes it does, I'm sitting at home at the moment," former Brexit secretary David Davis told Sky News.
"But there is no need for mandatory biometric ID cards. They are a solution in search of a problem, and they are deeply problematic themselves."


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Teachers in Singapore stopped from using Zoom after 'very serious incidents'

Teachers have been stopped from using Zoom in Singapore following a series of `` very serious incidents '' .
One incident reportedly saw hackers hijack the livestream of a geography lesson for teenage girls - forcing pictures of male genitalia to appear on their screens .
According to Straits Times , the attackers also made lewd remarks to the students , who were just 13 years old .
The security breaches came during the first week of a coronavirus lockdown in Singapore , which has seen many schools move to home-based learning .
Officials have warned they will file police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are responsible .
Zoom is a video conferencing app that has enjoyed an explosion in popularity as schools and offices close their doors , and families try to stay connected .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But the company has been plagued with safety and privacy concerns , with frequent reports of `` Zoom bombing '' : uninvited guests crashing meetings .
Germany and Taiwan have placed restrictions on the app 's use - and one school in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after a `` naked adult male using racial slurs '' intruded on a password-protected meeting .
Singapore says its suspension is a precautionary measure , and teachers will be able to carry on using Zoom if security issues are ironed out .
Zoom has embarked on a 90-day plan to tackle privacy and security issues - enlisting the help of a former Facebook security chief as it attempts to regain credibility .
The app was banned by the UK 's Ministry of Defence last month , but high-level talks between the prime minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service days later .
`` It is astounding that thousands of MoD staff have been banned from using Zoom only to find a sensitive government meeting like that of the prime minister 's cabinet is being conducted over it , '' a source told Sky News at the time .

Teachers have been stopped from using Zoom in Singapore following a series of "very serious incidents".
One incident reportedly saw hackers hijack the livestream of a geography lesson for teenage girls - forcing pictures of male genitalia to appear on their screens.
According to Straits Times, the attackers also made lewd remarks to the students, who were just 13 years old.
The security breaches came during the first week of a coronavirus lockdown in Singapore, which has seen many schools move to home-based learning.
Officials have warned they will file police reports if they track down the people who are responsible.
Zoom is a video conferencing app that has enjoyed an explosion in popularity as schools and offices close their doors, and families try to stay connected.
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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But the company has been plagued with safety and privacy concerns, with frequent reports of "Zoom bombing": uninvited guests crashing meetings.
Germany and Taiwan have placed restrictions on the app's use - and one school in the US has stopped using Zoom altogether after a "naked adult male using racial slurs" intruded on a password-protected meeting.
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Singapore says its suspension is a precautionary measure, and teachers will be able to carry on using Zoom if security issues are ironed out.
Image: The cabinet's meeting on Zoom caused controversy. Pic: Andrew Parsons/No 10
Zoom has embarked on a 90-day plan to tackle privacy and security issues - enlisting the help of a former Facebook security chief as it attempts to regain credibility.
The app was banned by the UK's Ministry of Defence last month, but high-level talks between the prime minister and his cabinet were held on the service days later.
"It is astounding that thousands of MoD staff have been banned from using Zoom only to find a sensitive government meeting like that of the prime minister's cabinet is being conducted over it," a source told Sky News at the time.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: 'This isn't a normal bank holiday' - Britons warned to stay home

Britons are being warned this is n't a `` normal bank holiday weekend '' in a bid to encourage them to resist the temptations of the warm weather and stop the spread of coronavirus .
A top police officer said if some people continued ignoring the COVID-19 lockdown laws over the Easter weekend then the government could impose tougher measures .
John Apter , national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales , pleaded with those people still ignoring the rules to stay indoors - despite what 's forecast to be a bright and sunny few days for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7,978 people with COVID-19 have died across the UK .
The UK is just over two weeks into the lockdown , which looks set to be extended by the government at the promised review point next Thursday .
David Lewis , deputy chief constable of Dorset Police , told Sky News that officers would be stationed on arterial roads to check people aren ’ t visiting holiday homes or beauty spots this weekend .
`` My guidance would be : If you have to ask yourself 'is this an essential journey ' then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turn round and stay home , '' he said .
Some forces have faced criticism for their approach to enforcing the lockdown , with Cambridge Police clarifying its approach after an officer posted on social media they were monitoring `` non-essential '' supermarket aisles .
But others have been met with aggression in their attempts to ensure people are not heading outdoors unnecessarily , with an officer badly bitten by a man in Rochdale following reports he was causing a disturbance .
The 29-year-old man was arrested after the two attending officers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ woman - needing hospital treatment after being `` seriously bitten '' .
Police Federation chief Mr Apter said the `` vast majority '' of Britons are following the law but a minority are either `` genuinely confused by the guidance or they 're completely oblivious to the dangers '' .
`` Policing is a tough job at the best of times but in some areas it ’ s making that difficult job even more difficult , '' he told Sky News ' All Out Politics .
`` I would beg the public - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home , unless you have to venture out for those essential journeys . ''
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He warned if people were allowed to sit and have barbecues in parks - even if with members of their own house and observing social distancing - then it would quickly turn into `` any other normal bank holiday weekend where the parks are packed full of people wanting to enjoy the sunshine '' .
`` We are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it ’ s about trying to encourage and support the public , '' Mr Apter added .
`` This is not lockdown ; lockdown is what we ’ ve seen on mainland Europe and we don ’ t want to go there .
`` But my fear is that if people continue to ignore this guidance , these rules that have been laid before parliament , then the government could go further .
Nobody wants that . ''
Stephen Powis , medical director of NHS England , reiterated the point - telling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sun is out doesn ’ t mean we should be out '' .
He urged people to stay at home so the country can `` lock down the benefits of the lockdown '' and stop more deaths .
`` We ’ re hopeful we ’ re beginning to see a plateau .
But we need to keep complying with the instructions - that ’ s the way that plateau will then translate into a drop , '' he explained .
`` And that ’ s the way we will have the best chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will see . ''

Britons are being warned this isn't a "normal bank holiday weekend" in a bid to encourage them to resist the temptations of the warm weather and stop the spread of coronavirus.
A top police officer said if some people continued ignoring the COVID-19 lockdown laws over the Easter weekend then the government could impose tougher measures.
John Apter, national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, pleaded with those people still ignoring the rules to stay indoors - despite what's forecast to be a bright and sunny few days for many.
Image: Benches are taped off on Bournemouth promenade
Image: Confirmation that the lockdown will be extended is expected next week
So far, at least 7,978 people with COVID-19 have died across the UK.
The UK is just over two weeks into the lockdown, which looks set to be extended by the government at the promised review point next Thursday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:33 'We're not done yet' - Raab urges people to resist the sunshine
David Lewis, deputy chief constable of Dorset Police, told Sky News that officers would be stationed on arterial roads to check people aren’t visiting holiday homes or beauty spots this weekend.
"My guidance would be: If you have to ask yourself 'is this an essential journey' then it probably isn’t, so turn round and stay home," he said.
Some forces have faced criticism for their approach to enforcing the lockdown, with Cambridge Police clarifying its approach after an officer posted on social media they were monitoring "non-essential" supermarket aisles.
But others have been met with aggression in their attempts to ensure people are not heading outdoors unnecessarily, with an officer badly bitten by a man in Rochdale following reports he was causing a disturbance.
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The 29-year-old man was arrested after the two attending officers were punched, with one - a 21-year-old woman - needing hospital treatment after being "seriously bitten".
Image: Some forces will be checking key roads to ensure people aren't breaking the rules
Police Federation chief Mr Apter said the "vast majority" of Britons are following the law but a minority are either "genuinely confused by the guidance or they're completely oblivious to the dangers".
"Policing is a tough job at the best of times but in some areas it’s making that difficult job even more difficult," he told Sky News' All Out Politics.
"I would beg the public - please, take the advice and stay at home, unless you have to venture out for those essential journeys."
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:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He warned if people were allowed to sit and have barbecues in parks - even if with members of their own house and observing social distancing - then it would quickly turn into "any other normal bank holiday weekend where the parks are packed full of people wanting to enjoy the sunshine".
"We are not in a normal bank holiday weekend, and it’s about trying to encourage and support the public," Mr Apter added.
"This is not lockdown; lockdown is what we’ve seen on mainland Europe and we don’t want to go there.
"But my fear is that if people continue to ignore this guidance, these rules that have been laid before parliament, then the government could go further. Nobody wants that."
Stephen Powis, medical director of NHS England, reiterated the point - telling Sky News that "just because the sun is out doesn’t mean we should be out".
He urged people to stay at home so the country can "lock down the benefits of the lockdown" and stop more deaths.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:30 Inside one of London's worst-hit hospitals
"We’re hopeful we’re beginning to see a plateau. But we need to keep complying with the instructions - that’s the way that plateau will then translate into a drop," he explained.
"And that’s the way we will have the best chance of minimising the number of deaths we will see."


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson waved thanks to NHS staff as he was moved out of intensive care

Boris Johnson waved his thanks to NHS staff as he was being moved out of intensive care , it has emerged - while his father has said the prime minister `` almost took one for the team '' .
Mr Johnson was moved back to the ward on Thursday evening - having first been admitted to St Thomas ' Hospital on Sunday with persistent symptoms of COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
He spent three days in intensive care .
A Number 10 spokesman said the PM was `` enormously grateful for the care he 's receiving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told he was waving his thanks towards the nurses and doctors that he saw as he was being moved from the intensive care unit back to the ward . ''
The spokesman said it was too early to say how long the PM would need to stay in hospital , adding he was not aware of any contact between Mr Johnson and Number 10 .
`` The prime minister is back on a ward and continuing his recovery which is at an early stage .
He continues to be in very good spirits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as this will be on the advice of his medical team .
They have given him brilliant care . ''
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Meanwhile , the PM 's dad , Stanley Johnson , said the family was `` amazingly grateful '' for the efforts of the NHS and for the outpouring of support for his son .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme that his son `` has to take time '' before returning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son 's illness underlines the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak .
`` To use that American expression , he almost took one for the team .
We have got to make sure we play the game properly now , '' he said .
`` This is pretty straightforward now .
`` He must rest up .
As I understand it , he has moved from the ICU into a recovery unit but I do n't think you can say this is out of the woods now .
`` He has to take time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ walk away from this and get straight back to Downing Street and pick up the reins without a period of readjustment . ''
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is deputising for the PM in his absence .
Addressing the government 's daily coronavirus news conference on Thursday , Mr Raab said it was too early to consider lifting the UK 's lockdown .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
A huge publicity blitz is urging the public to stay at home , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rules over the Easter weekend .
And with temperatures set to soar , police forces have warned they are ready to take action against those who flout rules designed to slow the spread of COVID-19 .

Boris Johnson waved his thanks to NHS staff as he was being moved out of intensive care, it has emerged - while his father has said the prime minister "almost took one for the team".
Mr Johnson was moved back to the ward on Thursday evening - having first been admitted to St Thomas' Hospital on Sunday with persistent symptoms of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
He spent three days in intensive care.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:54 UK claps for NHS, carers and key workers
A Number 10 spokesman said the PM was "enormously grateful for the care he's receiving", adding: "I am told he was waving his thanks towards the nurses and doctors that he saw as he was being moved from the intensive care unit back to the ward."
The spokesman said it was too early to say how long the PM would need to stay in hospital, adding he was not aware of any contact between Mr Johnson and Number 10.
"The prime minister is back on a ward and continuing his recovery which is at an early stage. He continues to be in very good spirits," he said.
"Decisions such as this will be on the advice of his medical team. They have given him brilliant care."
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Meanwhile, the PM's dad, Stanley Johnson, said the family was "amazingly grateful" for the efforts of the NHS and for the outpouring of support for his son.
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Image: Stanley and Boris Johnson on a Tube train in 2018
He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that his son "has to take time" before returning to work.
Stanley Johnson said his son's illness underlines the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak.
"To use that American expression, he almost took one for the team. We have got to make sure we play the game properly now," he said.
"This is pretty straightforward now.
"He must rest up. As I understand it, he has moved from the ICU into a recovery unit but I don't think you can say this is out of the woods now.
"He has to take time. I cannot believe you can walk away from this and get straight back to Downing Street and pick up the reins without a period of readjustment."
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is deputising for the PM in his absence.
Addressing the government's daily coronavirus news conference on Thursday, Mr Raab said it was too early to consider lifting the UK's lockdown.
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A huge publicity blitz is urging the public to stay at home, not visit friends or family and observe the rules over the Easter weekend.
And with temperatures set to soar, police forces have warned they are ready to take action against those who flout rules designed to slow the spread of COVID-19.


news--2020-04-09--Coronavirus: 'Unscrupulous sellers' still flogging items for 24 times their normal price

The government is facing calls to introduce price controls on essential items sold online after eBay and Amazon were accused of failing to stop profiteering during the coronavirus pandemic .
Consumer group Which ?
said the two companies were `` failing to prevent some unscrupulous sellers '' posting items on their sites despite removing hundreds of thousands of rogue listings .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last month that racketeers `` exploiting people 's need '' during the COVID-19 crisis would not be tolerated .
But Which ?
said it had found hundreds more products - including handwash , cleaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to customers on Amazon and eBay at hugely inflated prices .
New listings included two 600ml bottles of Carex handwash priced at £40 , and a bottle of Dettol cleaner being sold for £59.99 - 24 times the normal price .
It comes after Sky News found a box of baby formula , usually priced at around £11 , being sold on eBay for £310 last month .
Researchers for Which ?
said they had also discovered a `` worrying trend '' of what appeared to be listings previously removed by Amazon back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The consumer group said it was now time for the government to step in with emergency legislation to cap prices on essential products to stop the practice from continuing .
Sue Davies , Which ?
head of consumer protection , said Amazon and eBay `` seem unable to stop coronavirus profiteering '' which had left `` some unscrupulous sellers to have a field day exploiting people by selling essential items at appallingly high prices '' .
She said : `` It is time for the government , working with the Competition and Markets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in with strong action to stamp out price gouging and keep the price of vital goods reasonable during this difficult time . ''
In response , eBay said it had `` extremely effective measures '' in place to combat `` price gouging '' - when a seller increases the prices of goods to a level much higher than is considered reasonable or fair .
The company said it had `` heavy restrictions on the listing of some in-demand products at unreasonable prices '' which had resulted in `` five million automatically blocked attempts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ removed , and thousands of seller accounts suspended '' .
Amazon said there was `` no place for price gouging '' on its site , adding : `` We are disappointed that bad actors are attempting to artificially raise prices on basic need products during a global health crisis and , in line with our long-standing policy , have recently blocked or removed hundreds of thousands of offers .
`` We continue to actively monitor our store and remove offers that violate our policies . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify , Spreaker The CMA launched a taskforce last month to crack down on businesses seeking to exploit the escalating coronavirus emergency .
A spokeswoman for the watchdog said it was `` clear that whilst the majority of businesses are behaving responsibly in the COVID-19 outbreak , a small minority may have been taking advantage of the situation to exploit people '' .
`` We welcome the work eBay and Amazon are doing to remove listings where very high prices are being charged for essential goods , but it is clear this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away , '' the spokeswoman said .
`` We 're advising government on further action that could be taken to tackle price gouging at all levels of the supply chain . ''
A government spokesman said : `` The business secretary held a call with business and consumer organisations and retailers on the issue of profiteering , to discuss the scale of the issue and actions taken so far to address it .
They all agreed that it is unacceptable to exploit the coronavirus pandemic for financial gain .
`` We will keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consider further action to tackle this issue where necessary . ''

The government is facing calls to introduce price controls on essential items sold online after eBay and Amazon were accused of failing to stop profiteering during the coronavirus pandemic.
Consumer group Which? said the two companies were "failing to prevent some unscrupulous sellers" posting items on their sites despite removing hundreds of thousands of rogue listings.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last month that racketeers "exploiting people's need" during the COVID-19 crisis would not be tolerated.
Image: Many shops have sold out of handwash during the coronavirus pandemic
But Which? said it had found hundreds more products - including handwash, cleaning products and baby formula - being offered to customers on Amazon and eBay at hugely inflated prices.
New listings included two 600ml bottles of Carex handwash priced at £40, and a bottle of Dettol cleaner being sold for £59.99 - 24 times the normal price.
It comes after Sky News found a box of baby formula, usually priced at around £11, being sold on eBay for £310 last month.
Researchers for Which? said they had also discovered a "worrying trend" of what appeared to be listings previously removed by Amazon back on the site with inflated prices.
The consumer group said it was now time for the government to step in with emergency legislation to cap prices on essential products to stop the practice from continuing.
Sue Davies, Which? head of consumer protection, said Amazon and eBay "seem unable to stop coronavirus profiteering" which had left "some unscrupulous sellers to have a field day exploiting people by selling essential items at appallingly high prices".
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She said: "It is time for the government, working with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), to step in with strong action to stamp out price gouging and keep the price of vital goods reasonable during this difficult time."
Image: Sky News found an eBay seller offering a box of baby formula for £310 last month
In response, eBay said it had "extremely effective measures" in place to combat "price gouging" - when a seller increases the prices of goods to a level much higher than is considered reasonable or fair.
The company said it had "heavy restrictions on the listing of some in-demand products at unreasonable prices" which had resulted in "five million automatically blocked attempts to price gouge, an additional 600,000 removed, and thousands of seller accounts suspended".
Amazon said there was "no place for price gouging" on its site, adding: "We are disappointed that bad actors are attempting to artificially raise prices on basic need products during a global health crisis and, in line with our long-standing policy, have recently blocked or removed hundreds of thousands of offers.
"We continue to actively monitor our store and remove offers that violate our policies."
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 CMA launched a taskforce last month to crack down on businesses seeking to exploit the escalating coronavirus emergency.
A spokeswoman for the watchdog said it was "clear that whilst the majority of businesses are behaving responsibly in the COVID-19 outbreak, a small minority may have been taking advantage of the situation to exploit people".
"We welcome the work eBay and Amazon are doing to remove listings where very high prices are being charged for essential goods, but it is clear this is a serious problem that isn't going away," the spokeswoman said.
"We're advising government on further action that could be taken to tackle price gouging at all levels of the supply chain."
A government spokesman said: "The business secretary held a call with business and consumer organisations and retailers on the issue of profiteering, to discuss the scale of the issue and actions taken so far to address it. They all agreed that it is unacceptable to exploit the coronavirus pandemic for financial gain.
"We will keep all options under review and continue to consider further action to tackle this issue where necessary."