news--2020-04-12--Coronavirus: Ministers to face tough questions but now is not the time, says Starmer

Newly-elected Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said the government will face tough questions over its response to the pandemic , but told Sky News `` now is not the time '' .
Sir Keir made his comments as the number of coronavirus patient deaths in the UK passed the 10,000 mark , with almost 1,000 fatalities reported on Friday alone .
Speaking to Sky News ' Sophy Ridge on Sunday show , Sir Keir vowed to ask `` difficult questions '' about the government 's handling of the COVID-19 crisis .
But he stressed , for now , his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ purpose '' with ministers and offer `` constructive '' opposition .
`` What we all want - the whole country wants , the Labour Party wants , the government wants - is to see that figure flatten and hopefully , start going down , '' Sir Keir said .
He added : `` The figure for hospital admissions , the tragic death figures , we want to see them going down and whatever measures are necessary now , for the government to take , whether that is increasing capacity in the NHS or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those figures down , we will support it .
`` Of course , there will be questions in due course about what happened when but the most important thing is that we do have that unity of purpose which is to try to get those figures down and we will support the government in that .
`` We will ask questions , difficult questions about where we go next , about what 's happened in the past , but I think the whole nation desperately wants those figures to go down .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we shudder at the thought of the families that are affected by it . ''
: : Listen to the Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Asked whether the government initial response to the coronavirus outbreak - with 70,000 people attending Cheltenham Festival on the same day , 13 March , when Italy recorded 200 coronavirus deaths - Sir Keir added : `` There are going to be difficult questions about whether the government was too slow but now is not the time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call for answers from ministers on how the UK might come out of the current lockdown measures .
He said : `` We all know that a vaccine , which is the sort of end exit strategy , is probably 12 months away so the question is , what happens in that intervening 12 months ?
`` Now , I 'm pushing the government on this because we need to plan for it , we ca n't just arrive at it without a plan . ''
Sir Keir welcomed the news that parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs ' Easter break ends , with the office of Leader of the House of Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg confirming on Sunday that `` technological solutions '' will be considered to enable MPs to sit remotely .
During his first week at the top of the Labour Party , Sir Keir has reshaped the party 's top team with sweeping changes to the shadow cabinet - including the ousting of many of those loyal to ex-leader Jeremy Corbyn .
Asked if he was delivering the end of `` Corbynism '' , Sir Keir said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking `` to the past for people to cling to '' and encouraged them to develop their own ideas .
`` I 've never accepted these labels based on an individual , '' Sir Keir said .
He added : `` The duty and responsibility is on us now to do what 's necessary over the next four years , not to look backwards at other individuals , whoever they may be . ''

Newly-elected Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said the government will face tough questions over its response to the pandemic, but told Sky News "now is not the time".
Sir Keir made his comments as the number of coronavirus patient deaths in the UK passed the 10,000 mark, with almost 1,000 fatalities reported on Friday alone.
Speaking to Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday show, Sir Keir vowed to ask "difficult questions" about the government's handling of the COVID-19 crisis.
Image: Parliament will return on 21 April - with the help of technology
But he stressed, for now, his party would seek a "unity of purpose" with ministers and offer "constructive" opposition.
"What we all want - the whole country wants, the Labour Party wants, the government wants - is to see that figure flatten and hopefully, start going down," Sir Keir said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 ‘Today marks a sombre day’ - Matt Hancock
He added: "The figure for hospital admissions, the tragic death figures, we want to see them going down and whatever measures are necessary now, for the government to take, whether that is increasing capacity in the NHS or whether that's lockdown, to get those figures down, we will support it.
"Of course, there will be questions in due course about what happened when but the most important thing is that we do have that unity of purpose which is to try to get those figures down and we will support the government in that.
"We will ask questions, difficult questions about where we go next, about what's happened in the past, but I think the whole nation desperately wants those figures to go down.
"Every day we see the figures, we shudder at the thought of the families that are affected by it."
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Asked whether the government initial response to the coronavirus outbreak - with 70,000 people attending Cheltenham Festival on the same day, 13 March, when Italy recorded 200 coronavirus deaths - Sir Keir added: "There are going to be difficult questions about whether the government was too slow but now is not the time for those."
But Sir Keir did call for answers from ministers on how the UK might come out of the current lockdown measures.
He said: "We all know that a vaccine, which is the sort of end exit strategy, is probably 12 months away so the question is, what happens in that intervening 12 months?
"Now, I'm pushing the government on this because we need to plan for it, we can't just arrive at it without a plan."
Sir Keir welcomed the news that parliament will return on 21 April, when MPs' Easter break ends, with the office of Leader of the House of Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg confirming on Sunday that "technological solutions" will be considered to enable MPs to sit remotely.
During his first week at the top of the Labour Party, Sir Keir has reshaped the party's top team with sweeping changes to the shadow cabinet - including the ousting of many of those loyal to ex-leader Jeremy Corbyn.
Asked if he was delivering the end of "Corbynism", Sir Keir said he had advised his shadow ministers against looking "to the past for people to cling to" and encouraged them to develop their own ideas.
"I've never accepted these labels based on an individual," Sir Keir said.
He added: "The duty and responsibility is on us now to do what's necessary over the next four years, not to look backwards at other individuals, whoever they may be."


news--2020-04-12--Coronavirus: Young men drinking beer in park swear at nurse after being told to move

An NHS nurse has confronted a group of young men who were drinking beer in a park and ignoring the government 's plea to stay at home .
Louise Ann , a mother of two from Basingstoke , was told to `` f*** off '' by the group , who were lounging around in the sunshine surrounded by their bikes - going against the current lockdown rules due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Filming the encounter , she told them : `` My husband is not getting paid .
I have to go in and do overtime , all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in there . ''
As some of the men began to stand up and move away , one of them replied : `` Well do n't stand near us then , innit ? ''
One of them sniggered after she said : `` I have to go to work every day fearing I 'm going to bring it home to my family because of people like you .
After being told to stop recording , the nurse added : `` No !
If you 're going to be stupid , then I 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Absolute idiots .
Why do you think you 're better than anyone else ?
I 've got no idea . ''
As the group began to cycle off , she said : `` That 's it , jog on . ''
Uploading the video to Facebook - where it has been shared thousands of times - Louise said she hated confrontation but had to act because she was `` so cross '' .
The weather has been warm for many of us over the Easter weekend , but Britons are being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visits to beaches and parks .
Police officers from 37 forces in England and Wales issued more than 1,000 fines in the run-up to Thursday , for people breaching COVID-19 regulations .
But despite some high-profile reports of people breaking the lockdown restrictions in recent days , the vast majority of Britons appear to be adhering to the rules .
Photographs taken on Saturday showed only small numbers of people visiting normally popular destinations , despite temperatures peaking at 25.5C ( 78F ) .
The Met Office has said temperatures could exceed 24C @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the best weather forecast in the South .
Several parks have introduced new measures to deter people from sunbathing and gathering inside .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Victoria Park in east London has newly reopened , but recorded messages urge visitors to follow social distancing measures , with mounted police and wardens patrolling the area .
On Friday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : `` This Easter will be another test of the nation 's resolve .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normally come together .
`` But however warm the weather , however tempting your local beach or park , we need everyone to stay at home . ''
On Saturday , the UK recorded 917 new coronavirus deaths , including an 11-year-old .
This brings the total number of UK deaths to 9,875 .

An NHS nurse has confronted a group of young men who were drinking beer in a park and ignoring the government's plea to stay at home.
Louise Ann, a mother of two from Basingstoke, was told to "f*** off" by the group, who were lounging around in the sunshine surrounded by their bikes - going against the current lockdown rules due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Filming the encounter, she told them: "My husband is not getting paid. I have to go in and do overtime, all the time. I've got two kids in there."
Image: The nurse was told to 'f*** off' after telling the men to go home
As some of the men began to stand up and move away, one of them replied: "Well don't stand near us then, innit?"
One of them sniggered after she said: "I have to go to work every day fearing I'm going to bring it home to my family because of people like you.
"You are absolute idiots."
After being told to stop recording, the nurse added: "No! If you're going to be stupid, then I'll show the world how stupid you are.
"Absolute idiots. Why do you think you're better than anyone else? I've got no idea."
As the group began to cycle off, she said: "That's it, jog on."
Advertisement
Image: After being confronted, one of the men said: 'Don't stand near us then, innit?'
Uploading the video to Facebook - where it has been shared thousands of times - Louise said she hated confrontation but had to act because she was "so cross".
The weather has been warm for many of us over the Easter weekend, but Britons are being urged to follow government advice and avoid visits to beaches and parks.
Image: The men eventually cycled off after being confronted by Louise
Police officers from 37 forces in England and Wales issued more than 1,000 fines in the run-up to Thursday, for people breaching COVID-19 regulations.
But despite some high-profile reports of people breaking the lockdown restrictions in recent days, the vast majority of Britons appear to be adhering to the rules.
Image: What a difference a year makes: Scarborough during the 2019 Easter bank holiday weekend versus yesterday
Photographs taken on Saturday showed only small numbers of people visiting normally popular destinations, despite temperatures peaking at 25.5C (78F).
The Met Office has said temperatures could exceed 24C (75.2F) on Easter Sunday, with the best weather forecast in the South.
Several parks have introduced new measures to deter people from sunbathing and gathering inside.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Victoria Park in east London has newly reopened, but recorded messages urge visitors to follow social distancing measures, with mounted police and wardens patrolling the area.
On Friday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "This Easter will be another test of the nation's resolve. It's a time of year when people normally come together.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:37 Hancock: 'Stay home however warm the weather'
"But however warm the weather, however tempting your local beach or park, we need everyone to stay at home."
On Saturday, the UK recorded 917 new coronavirus deaths, including an 11-year-old.
This brings the total number of UK deaths to 9,875.


news--2020-04-12--Coronavirus: 'Impossible' to say when NHS staff will get enough PPE - health secretary

It is `` impossible '' to say when frontline NHS staff will get enough vital protective equipment in the fight against coronavirus , the health secretary has admitted .
Matt Hancock said work to make sure they have the items known as PPE is `` now moving in the right direction '' and `` improving '' .
He added `` we wo n't rest '' until all health and care workers have got adequate supplies of kit like masks , gloves and aprons .
His comments come after the Royal College of Nursing told its members that as a last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with COVID-19 if they are n't given the right PPE .
Asked to name a date when all NHS staff would get the gear they need , Mr Hancock said at the daily Downing Street briefing : `` It 's impossible .
`` Because the quest is to get the right PPE to the right people on the frontline at the right time across many millions of people across the NHS and social care .
`` I 'm glad to say that that effort is moving in the right direction ... but until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we wo n't rest .
`` We have thousands of people working on this 24/7 on this - including over this Bank Holiday weekend because the need and the demand for this PPE does n't stop . ''
The number of people who have died with COVID-19 in UK hospitals has now topped 10,000 .
Figures released by each of the four nations on Sunday showed England recorded 657 more deaths , Scotland 24 , Wales 18 and Northern Ireland 11 .
Among those who have died with coronavirus are more than 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged the prime minister several weeks ago to `` urgently '' boost PPE stocks because medics have a `` human right like others to live in this world disease-free with our family and children '' .
Mr Hancock has come under pressure to explain why some healthcare workers say they still are n't getting PPE , putting them and other patients they could potentially spread the virus to at risk .
He confirmed : `` We are looking into each circumstance to understand as much as possible how they caught the virus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of work , and making sure we learn as much as we possibly can and , therefore , of course protect our health workers as much as possible . ''
: : Listen to the Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He also said 121,000 gowns have been delivered around the country and more will be coming , adding that the average time to deal with PPE queries had gone down to two-and-a-half days in the past week .
And he confirmed as Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the government is preparing to release an app which alerts people if they come too close to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 .
It is currently being tested by experts in clinical safety and digital ethics `` so that we can get this right '' .
The health secretary told the public that he knew the lockdown has been `` extra tough '' and people obeying it are `` making a difference '' but warned `` we can not be complacent ... so please keep going '' .
Senior ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decide whether to extend or change it by next Thursday .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been released from hospital - a week to the day since he was taken to St Thomas ' in central London .
In his first public address since emerging from intensive care , he admitted his health `` could have gone either way '' and that there is `` no question '' the NHS saved his life .
Earlier , the business secretary refused to apologise to medics who are missing PPE .
Alok Sharma told Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` sorry for the loss of any life during this pandemic '' and admitted `` we need to be doing even more '' to distribute PPE .

It is "impossible" to say when frontline NHS staff will get enough vital protective equipment in the fight against coronavirus, the health secretary has admitted.
Matt Hancock said work to make sure they have the items known as PPE is "now moving in the right direction" and "improving".
He added "we won't rest" until all health and care workers have got adequate supplies of kit like masks, gloves and aprons.
Image: NHS staff say they still need more PPE
His comments come after the Royal College of Nursing told its members that as a last resort they should refuse to treat patients with COVID-19 if they aren't given the right PPE.
Asked to name a date when all NHS staff would get the gear they need, Mr Hancock said at the daily Downing Street briefing: "It's impossible.
Image: PPE includes masks, gloves and gowns
"Because the quest is to get the right PPE to the right people on the frontline at the right time across many millions of people across the NHS and social care.
"I'm glad to say that that effort is moving in the right direction... but until everybody gets the PPE that they need we won't rest.
"We have thousands of people working on this 24/7 on this - including over this Bank Holiday weekend because the need and the demand for this PPE doesn't stop."
Image: The RCN has issued new guidance to its members
The number of people who have died with COVID-19 in UK hospitals has now topped 10,000.
Advertisement
Figures released by each of the four nations on Sunday showed England recorded 657 more deaths, Scotland 24, Wales 18 and Northern Ireland 11.
Among those who have died with coronavirus are more than 30 NHS staff, including a doctor who urged the prime minister several weeks ago to "urgently" boost PPE stocks because medics have a "human right like others to live in this world disease-free with our family and children".
Image: A decision on whether to extend the lockdown will be taken by Thursday
Mr Hancock has come under pressure to explain why some healthcare workers say they still aren't getting PPE, putting them and other patients they could potentially spread the virus to at risk.
He confirmed: "We are looking into each circumstance to understand as much as possible how they caught the virus, whether that's at work, outside of work, and making sure we learn as much as we possibly can and, therefore, of course protect our health workers as much as possible."
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 Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He also said 121,000 gowns have been delivered around the country and more will be coming, adding that the average time to deal with PPE queries had gone down to two-and-a-half days in the past week.
And he confirmed as Sky News reported at the end of March that the government is preparing to release an app which alerts people if they come too close to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
It is currently being tested by experts in clinical safety and digital ethics "so that we can get this right".
The health secretary told the public that he knew the lockdown has been "extra tough" and people obeying it are "making a difference" but warned "we cannot be complacent... so please keep going".
Senior ministers are due to review the lockdown and decide whether to extend or change it by next Thursday.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been released from hospital - a week to the day since he was taken to St Thomas' in central London.
In his first public address since emerging from intensive care, he admitted his health "could have gone either way" and that there is "no question" the NHS saved his life.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:09 PM: 'It could have gone either way'
Earlier, the business secretary refused to apologise to medics who are missing PPE.
Alok Sharma told Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday he was "sorry for the loss of any life during this pandemic" and admitted "we need to be doing even more" to distribute PPE.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Getting medics protective gear is a 'Herculean effort', health secretary admits

Getting vital personal protective equipment to frontline NHS staff is proving to be a `` Herculean logistical effort '' , the health secretary has admitted .
Matt Hancock insisted there are enough masks , gloves , aprons and hand sanitiser to go around as he defended the government 's record on protecting medics .
He told health workers they should be treating the items known as PPE like the “ precious resource that it is ” .
Ministers have been accused of being too slow to deliver the equipment , putting doctors at risk and meaning those treating patients with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Earlier this week , the British Medical Association told Sky News the shortage was “ really worrying ” and that only 50 % of doctors surveyed in high-risk areas like intensive care units say they have adequate supplies of sealed masks .
A doctor who was diagnosed with coronavirus also died this week - several weeks after writing to the prime minister asking him “ urgently ” to boost PPE stocks .
Abdul Mabud Chowdhury , 52 , called on the prime minister to ensure medics are protected because they have a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this world disease-free with our family and children '' .
Mr Hancock tried to assuage fears by saying at the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing on Friday : “ There 's enough PPE to go around , but only if it 's used in line with our guidance .
`` We need everyone to treat PPE like the precious resource that it is .
`` That means only using it when there 's a clinical need , and not using more than is needed . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify , Spreaker He said 742 million pieces of PPE have been delivered so far during the outbreak , including 161 million masks , 127 million aprons , one million gowns , and 345 million pairs of gloves .
Mr Hancock continued : `` This is a Herculean logistical effort .
We 've brought together the NHS , private industry and the Army , in fact , the armed forces , to create a giant PPE distribution network on an unprecedented scale . ''
In order to ensure sufficient future supply , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to `` step up to the plate '' and help with manufacturing .
For weeks the government has been promising medics would be protected , with Mr Hancock saying on 23 March he was “ taking urgent action to ensure dedicated frontline NHS and social care staff… feel supported ” .
Responding to his latest assurances , director of nursing at the Royal College of Nursing Susan Master said it would only be impressive when nursing staff “ stop contacting me to say what they need to use was n't available ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff must not be compromised , ” she added .
`` They are pretty clear about what they need to do to stay safe and they will be angered by any suggestion they cause shortages by misusing kit . ''
Labour also said there was a `` mismatch '' between promises and the reality .
Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said : `` Staff have been raising the alarm over lack of PPE for weeks .
We hope the government 's plans today deliver the adequate supplies of PPE our brave health care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a hospital trust that has dealt with hundreds of COVID-19 positive patients also told Sky News that the reassurances about PPE were “ too little too late ” .
`` We all know colleagues who are sick and some who have died .
Still we ( rightly ) head in each day and work really really hard .
`` But it 's tough .
As a consultant I have to look at my team each day and reassure , motivate and protect them .
`` The constant changes in PPE policy weakens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He added : “ Nobody expected a pandemic on this scale and no one blames the government for not having warehouses full of PPE for a once in a lifetime eventuality - but we expect a bit of candour and honestly .
“ Staff are scared .
We all know colleagues who are sick and some who have died .
Still we ( rightly ) head in each day and work really really hard .
But it ’ s tough .
“ Staff are scared to speak out , scared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they feel they ’ re letting their patients and colleagues down.
” Turkey has sent some PPE to the UK as a goodwill gesture - including 100,000 surgical masks and 100,000 hazmat suits .

Getting vital personal protective equipment to frontline NHS staff is proving to be a "Herculean logistical effort", the health secretary has admitted.
Matt Hancock insisted there are enough masks, gloves, aprons and hand sanitiser to go around as he defended the government's record on protecting medics.
He told health workers they should be treating the items known as PPE like the “precious resource that it is”.
Ministers have been accused of being too slow to deliver the equipment, putting doctors at risk and meaning those treating patients with COVID-19 could pass on the virus.
Image: How PPE makes its way from factories to the frontline
Earlier this week, the British Medical Association told Sky News the shortage was “really worrying” and that only 50% of doctors surveyed in high-risk areas like intensive care units say they have adequate supplies of sealed masks.
A doctor who was diagnosed with coronavirus also died this week - several weeks after writing to the prime minister asking him “urgently” to boost PPE stocks.
Abdul Mabud Chowdhury, 52, called on the prime minister to ensure medics are protected because they have a "human right like others to live in this world disease-free with our family and children".
Image: Mr Hancock said 742 million pieces of PPE have been delivered so far
Mr Hancock tried to assuage fears by saying at the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing on Friday: “There's enough PPE to go around, but only if it's used in line with our guidance.
"We need everyone to treat PPE like the precious resource that it is.
Advertisement
"That means only using it when there's a clinical need, and not using more than is needed."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He said 742 million pieces of PPE have been delivered so far during the outbreak, including 161 million masks, 127 million aprons, one million gowns, and 345 million pairs of gloves.
Mr Hancock continued: "This is a Herculean logistical effort. We've brought together the NHS, private industry and the Army, in fact, the armed forces, to create a giant PPE distribution network on an unprecedented scale."
In order to ensure sufficient future supply, he is urging companies which can do so to "step up to the plate" and help with manufacturing.
For weeks the government has been promising medics would be protected, with Mr Hancock saying on 23 March he was “taking urgent action to ensure dedicated frontline NHS and social care staff… feel supported”.
Image: The RCN said it would only be impressive when nursing staff said they had everything they need
Responding to his latest assurances, director of nursing at the Royal College of Nursing Susan Master said it would only be impressive when nursing staff “stop contacting me to say what they need to use wasn't available”.
“The safety of nurses and care staff must not be compromised,” she added.
"They are pretty clear about what they need to do to stay safe and they will be angered by any suggestion they cause shortages by misusing kit."
Labour also said there was a "mismatch" between promises and the reality.
Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said: "Staff have been raising the alarm over lack of PPE for weeks. We hope the government's plans today deliver the adequate supplies of PPE our brave health care staff deserve."
Image: Labour says there's been a 'mismatch' between the promises and reality
A senior doctor at a hospital trust that has dealt with hundreds of COVID-19 positive patients also told Sky News that the reassurances about PPE were “too little too late”.
"We all know colleagues who are sick and some who have died. Still we (rightly) head in each day and work really really hard.
"But it's tough. As a consultant I have to look at my team each day and reassure, motivate and protect them.
"The constant changes in PPE policy weakens the scientific arguments and denials worry people."
He added: “Nobody expected a pandemic on this scale and no one blames the government for not having warehouses full of PPE for a once in a lifetime eventuality - but we expect a bit of candour and honestly.
“Staff are scared. We all know colleagues who are sick and some who have died. Still we (rightly) head in each day and work really really hard. But it’s tough.
“Staff are scared to speak out, scared to work, and ashamed of being unwell as they feel they’re letting their patients and colleagues down.”
Turkey has sent some PPE to the UK as a goodwill gesture - including 100,000 surgical masks and 100,000 hazmat suits.


news--2020-04-12--Coronavirus: New Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer demands 'urgent talks' on parliament's return

Sir Keir Starmer has demanded urgent talks to ensure parliament returns after the Easter break so ministers can face questions over their handling of the coronavirus pandemic .
The new Labour leader said the Commons must be open for business after recess officially ends on 21 April - even if it means MPs asking questions over webcams .
In a letter to Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg , Sir Keir said the UK was facing a `` national crisis '' over COVID-19 and decisions taken by the government should be `` challenged and subject to scrutiny '' .
He wrote : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ functioning effectively that can not happen .
`` I accept that it is difficult for parliament to return to business as usual at the moment , but there are clear examples around the world of parliaments operating effectively by using new technologies and different models . ''
Sir Keir , who will appear on Sky News ' Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme from 8.30am , said Labour supported many of the measures implemented by the government but set out a list of questions that `` need to be answered '' .
He called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown imposed on the UK , along with answers over the `` ramping up of testing '' for coronavirus and the supply of personal protective equipment for frontline NHS staff .
The Labour leader has now requested `` urgent talks '' with Mr Rees-Mogg and Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle in the coming week to discuss parliament resuming .
Home Secretary Priti Patel told reporters during a Downing Street briefing on Saturday that she did `` not know yet '' whether the Commons would meet as planned in little over a week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 25 March a week early because of fears over the spread of coronavirus .
It later emerged that Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock had contracted the virus .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Work has been commissioned by the speaker to ensure a `` virtual '' chamber can be up and running after the Easter recess so MPs can return to duty .
It could see MPs questioning ministers from their homes by webcam if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with senior ministers signalling there is no intention to curb the social distancing measures .
The Palace of Westminster currently requires MPs and peers to be physically present to walk through voting lobbies when passing legislation , but Sir Lindsay has indicated exceptions could be made to ensure parliament can function during the pandemic .
MPs are being given an additional £10,000 work from home allowance to cover increased costs , but more than 130,000 people have signed a petition calling for this `` perk '' to be scrapped .
On Saturday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had died in hospitals in the UK - including an 11-year-old - bringing the country 's total number of deaths to 9,875 .

Sir Keir Starmer has demanded urgent talks to ensure parliament returns after the Easter break so ministers can face questions over their handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
The new Labour leader said the Commons must be open for business after recess officially ends on 21 April - even if it means MPs asking questions over webcams.
In a letter to Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg, Sir Keir said the UK was facing a "national crisis" over COVID-19 and decisions taken by the government should be "challenged and subject to scrutiny".
Image: Parliament has been closed for recess since 25 March
He wrote: "If parliament is not sitting or functioning effectively that cannot happen.
"I accept that it is difficult for parliament to return to business as usual at the moment, but there are clear examples around the world of parliaments operating effectively by using new technologies and different models."
Sir Keir, who will appear on Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme from 8.30am, said Labour supported many of the measures implemented by the government but set out a list of questions that "need to be answered".
He called for clarity over an exit strategy from the lockdown imposed on the UK, along with answers over the "ramping up of testing" for coronavirus and the supply of personal protective equipment for frontline NHS staff.
The Labour leader has now requested "urgent talks" with Mr Rees-Mogg and Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle in the coming week to discuss parliament resuming.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 'I'm sorry if people feel there have been failures'
Home Secretary Priti Patel told reporters during a Downing Street briefing on Saturday that she did "not know yet" whether the Commons would meet as planned in little over a week's time.
Advertisement
Parliament shut down on 25 March a week early because of fears over the spread of coronavirus.
It later emerged that Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock had contracted the virus.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Work has been commissioned by the speaker to ensure a "virtual" chamber can be up and running after the Easter recess so MPs can return to duty.
It could see MPs questioning ministers from their homes by webcam if the lockdown is still in place, with senior ministers signalling there is no intention to curb the social distancing measures.
The Palace of Westminster currently requires MPs and peers to be physically present to walk through voting lobbies when passing legislation, but Sir Lindsay has indicated exceptions could be made to ensure parliament can function during the pandemic.
MPs are being given an additional £10,000 work from home allowance to cover increased costs, but more than 130,000 people have signed a petition calling for this "perk" to be scrapped.
On Saturday, it was confirmed another 917 coronavirus patients had died in hospitals in the UK - including an 11-year-old - bringing the country's total number of deaths to 9,875.


news--2020-04-12--Coronavirus: Archbishop of Canterbury praises 'heroism' of frontline workers in Easter message

The Archbishop of Canterbury has praised frontline workers for their `` heroism '' during the coronavirus outbreak .
His message was delivered by video as churches remain closed over Easter for the first time in hundreds of years , due to the COVID-19 lockdown .
Justin Welby led the first national digital Easter Sunday service from his kitchen at Lambeth Palace .
He called for `` a resurrection of our common life '' once the coronavirus outbreak is over .
`` After so much suffering , so much heroism from key workers and the NHS , we can not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before as if all is normal , '' he said in the sermon , recorded on his iPad .
`` There needs to be a resurrection of our common life . ''
The Archbishop normally presides before a congregation of 1,500 people at Canterbury Cathedral on Easter morning .
He assured worshippers that everyone is in this together , saying : `` So many people right across the country are anxious about employment , food , are isolated from loved ones and feel that the future looks dark .
`` People right across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fear , despair and isolation .
But you are not alone . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He added that `` in the dark days of this Easter , we can feed on hope '' - and `` dream of what our country and our world will look like after the pandemic '' .
Responding to a question about the closure of churches , Mr Welby said the decision had been taken `` with much pain and much thought and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was vital that people followed the government 's advice on social distancing .
`` I 'm unhappy with it - I would love to be at Canterbury Cathedral ... it would be much better .
`` But the reality is , we are here to set an example .
It 's not about us .
`` We have said this is how you care for your flock and ... share in the suffering of the nation and set an example and care for others and look after them and stay at home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - it 's not complicated . ''
In his Easter message , also recorded behind closed doors , the Pope called for solidarity in fighting the coronavirus pandemic and its economic fallout and urged the relaxation of international sanctions , and debt relief for poor countries .
He also warned the European Union that it risked collapse if it did not agree on how to help the recovery .
The Pope 's Easter `` Urbi et Orbi '' ( to the city and the world ) message , delivered from an empty St @ @ @ @ @ @ @ usual crowd of tens of thousands in the square , was his most pressing and political since his election in 2013 .
He said : `` This is not a time for indifference , because the whole world is suffering and needs to be united in facing the pandemic .
`` Indifference , self-centredness , division and forgetfulness are not words we want to hear at this time .
We want to ban these words forever !
`` May international sanctions be relaxed , since these make it difficult for countries on which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support to their citizens . ''

The Archbishop of Canterbury has praised frontline workers for their "heroism" during the coronavirus outbreak.
His message was delivered by video as churches remain closed over Easter for the first time in hundreds of years, due to the COVID-19 lockdown.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:45 Pope holds Easter service almost alone
Justin Welby led the first national digital Easter Sunday service from his kitchen at Lambeth Palace.
He called for "a resurrection of our common life" once the coronavirus outbreak is over.
"After so much suffering, so much heroism from key workers and the NHS, we cannot be content to go back to what was before as if all is normal," he said in the sermon, recorded on his iPad.
"There needs to be a resurrection of our common life."
The Archbishop normally presides before a congregation of 1,500 people at Canterbury Cathedral on Easter morning.
He assured worshippers that everyone is in this together, saying: "So many people right across the country are anxious about employment, food, are isolated from loved ones and feel that the future looks dark.
"People right across the globe feel the same uncertainty, fear, despair and isolation. But you are not alone."
Advertisement
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He added that "in the dark days of this Easter, we can feed on hope" - and "dream of what our country and our world will look like after the pandemic".
Responding to a question about the closure of churches, Mr Welby said the decision had been taken "with much pain and much thought and much prayer".
But he said it was vital that people followed the government's advice on social distancing.
"I'm unhappy with it - I would love to be at Canterbury Cathedral... it would be much better.
"But the reality is, we are here to set an example. It's not about us.
"We have said this is how you care for your flock and... share in the suffering of the nation and set an example and care for others and look after them and stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives - it's not complicated."
Image: St Peter's Square in Vatican City is usually packed on Easter Sunday
In his Easter message, also recorded behind closed doors, the Pope called for solidarity in fighting the coronavirus pandemic and its economic fallout and urged the relaxation of international sanctions, and debt relief for poor countries.
He also warned the European Union that it risked collapse if it did not agree on how to help the recovery.
The Pope's Easter "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message, delivered from an empty St Peter's Basilica instead of to the usual crowd of tens of thousands in the square, was his most pressing and political since his election in 2013.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 Easter at the drive-in in United States
He said: "This is not a time for indifference, because the whole world is suffering and needs to be united in facing the pandemic.
"Indifference, self-centredness, division and forgetfulness are not words we want to hear at this time. We want to ban these words forever!
"May international sanctions be relaxed, since these make it difficult for countries on which they have been imposed to provide adequate support to their citizens."


news--2020-06-17--Boohoo shares surge as retailer sees virus-busting sales growth

Boohoo , the online fashion retailer , has seen its share price surge after reporting stronger than expected sales growth during the coronavirus pandemic .
The company 's trading update and updated forecasts for sales , which exceeded market expectations , also confirmed a story by Sky News that it had snapped up the online operations of Oasis and Warehouse for £5.25m .
Boohoo said the acquisition to its multi-brand platform would help it build momentum as it bucked the trend of plunging sales for high street competitors - largely shuttered since late March because of the COVID-19 lockdown .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ last year and said on Wednesday that they were `` trading strongly '' as it reported a 45 % leap in sales to £368m during its first quarter covering the three months to 31 May .
Boohoo said sales gathered pace as the quarter evolved , following a slow start .
The company , which owns the Nasty Gal and PrettyLittleThing brands , has become a hit with a generation of younger consumers who shop on their mobile phones and share fashion tips on social media .
Chief executive John Lyttle told investors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of uncertainty within the markets in which we operate , the Group is well-positioned to continue making progress towards leading the fashion e-commerce market globally . ''
At a time when few companies are prepared to stick their necks out with market guidance , Boohoo said it was forecasting revenue growth of approximately 25 % for the current financial year to February 2021 .
Shares , which were as much as 10 % up at Wednesday 's open , are more than 40 % higher in the year to date , placing Boohoo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a time when the wider market is recovering from a coronavirus-led slump .
Commenting on the performance Sophie Lund-Yates , equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown , said : `` Acquisitions are an important tool in boohoo 's armoury , because the share price valuation demands exponential growth , and there 's only so much fuel left in the tank of the flagship brand .
`` What will be interesting is how many further buying opportunities are kicked up by coronavirus .
`` We can expect a handful of struggling retailers to fold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's cash-laden balance sheet means it will be able to pounce .
`` Gearing up for future growth does n't come cheap though , and capital expenditure is expected to spike in the current financial year .
That 's all well and good so long as sales growth follows suit - if it does n't then the added scale becomes a drag , rather than a benefit , for profits . ''

Boohoo, the online fashion retailer, has seen its share price surge after reporting stronger than expected sales growth during the coronavirus pandemic.
The company's trading update and updated forecasts for sales, which exceeded market expectations, also confirmed a story by Sky News that it had snapped up the online operations of Oasis and Warehouse for £5.25m.
Boohoo said the acquisition to its multi-brand platform would help it build momentum as it bucked the trend of plunging sales for high street competitors - largely shuttered since late March because of the COVID-19 lockdown.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 Huge queues as England's shops reopen
The company bought Karen Millen and Coast last year and said on Wednesday that they were "trading strongly" as it reported a 45% leap in sales to £368m during its first quarter covering the three months to 31 May.
That smashed analysts' forecasts amid the coronavirus crisis.
Boohoo said sales gathered pace as the quarter evolved, following a slow start.
The company, which owns the Nasty Gal and PrettyLittleThing brands, has become a hit with a generation of younger consumers who shop on their mobile phones and share fashion tips on social media.
Chief executive John Lyttle told investors: "Whilst there is a period of uncertainty within the markets in which we operate, the Group is well-positioned to continue making progress towards leading the fashion e-commerce market globally."
At a time when few companies are prepared to stick their necks out with market guidance, Boohoo said it was forecasting revenue growth of approximately 25% for the current financial year to February 2021.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Pubs and restaurants not opening yet
Shares, which were as much as 10% up at Wednesday's open, are more than 40% higher in the year to date, placing Boohoo among the few big winners for investors at a time when the wider market is recovering from a coronavirus-led slump.
The shares closed 6.6% higher.
Commenting on the performance Sophie Lund-Yates, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: "Acquisitions are an important tool in boohoo's armoury, because the share price valuation demands exponential growth, and there's only so much fuel left in the tank of the flagship brand.
"What will be interesting is how many further buying opportunities are kicked up by coronavirus.
"We can expect a handful of struggling retailers to fold in the coming months, and Boohoo's cash-laden balance sheet means it will be able to pounce.
"Gearing up for future growth doesn't come cheap though, and capital expenditure is expected to spike in the current financial year. That's all well and good so long as sales growth follows suit - if it doesn't then the added scale becomes a drag, rather than a benefit, for profits."


news--2020-06-17--Coronavirus: B&Q boosted by 'exceptional demand' during lockdown

B & Q owner Kingfisher has reported a surge in sales after the chain saw `` exceptional demand '' during the lockdown period .
Chief executive Thierry Garnier said people were taking on DIY projects as they were spending more time at home and had fewer leisure and travel options .
Kingfisher said like-for-like sales for the second quarter ending on 13 June were 21.8 % ahead of the same period last year , lifted by online revenues rising by as much as fourfold .
The reopening of B & Q stores in the UK from mid-April - which saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contributed to the strong performance as well .
Kingfisher , which also owns Screwfix , plus European chains including France-based Castorama , is recruiting 3,000-4,000 more staff to cope with demand .
The group said it could not provide specific guidance for the 2020-21 financial year given the uncertainty around the coronavirus pandemic .
Mr Garnier said an economic downturn would particularly hit demand for big projects such as kitchens and bathrooms .
But he added : `` I still think that DIY overall will prove more resilient than the average . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which came as Kingfisher also reported `` disappointing '' results for the year to the end of January .
Pre-tax profits tumbled 66 % to £103m as sales slipped and the group took a one-off charge of £441m to reflect a gloomier outlook for parts of the business .
The pandemic put a further dent in trading , with sales down 24.8 % in the first quarter of the current financial year .
In the UK , Kingfisher 's B & Q and Screwfix chains - classed as `` essential '' stores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown that started on 23 March .
But managers decided to close branches in order to put in place social distancing measures , before a phased reopening starting in mid-April .
Weekly sales figures for the UK and Ireland fell by as much as 70 % during the early stages of lockdown but then bounced back sharply and were ahead by nearly 30 % in the week ending 13 June .
Kingfisher said all 289 UK stores were now open while most of the country 's 682 Screwfix stores had been reordered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of May .

B&Q owner Kingfisher has reported a surge in sales after the chain saw "exceptional demand" during the lockdown period.
Chief executive Thierry Garnier said people were taking on DIY projects as they were spending more time at home and had fewer leisure and travel options.
Kingfisher said like-for-like sales for the second quarter ending on 13 June were 21.8% ahead of the same period last year, lifted by online revenues rising by as much as fourfold.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:18 April: Long queues as chain reopens
The reopening of B&Q stores in the UK from mid-April - which saw long queues build up outside branches - contributed to the strong performance as well.
Kingfisher, which also owns Screwfix, plus European chains including France-based Castorama, is recruiting 3,000-4,000 more staff to cope with demand.
The group said it could not provide specific guidance for the 2020-21 financial year given the uncertainty around the coronavirus pandemic.
Mr Garnier said an economic downturn would particularly hit demand for big projects such as kitchens and bathrooms.
But he added: "I still think that DIY overall will prove more resilient than the average."
Shares rose 6% on the update, which came as Kingfisher also reported "disappointing" results for the year to the end of January.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:52 UK economy shrinks by 20.4% due to virus
Pre-tax profits tumbled 66% to £103m as sales slipped and the group took a one-off charge of £441m to reflect a gloomier outlook for parts of the business.
The pandemic put a further dent in trading, with sales down 24.8% in the first quarter of the current financial year.
In the UK, Kingfisher's B&Q and Screwfix chains - classed as "essential" stores - were eligible to remain open during the lockdown that started on 23 March.
But managers decided to close branches in order to put in place social distancing measures, before a phased reopening starting in mid-April.
Weekly sales figures for the UK and Ireland fell by as much as 70% during the early stages of lockdown but then bounced back sharply and were ahead by nearly 30% in the week ending 13 June.
Kingfisher said all 289 UK stores were now open while most of the country's 682 Screwfix stores had been reordered in order to reopen safely by the end of May.


news--2020-06-16--Coronavirus: Can you catch COVID-19 from frozen or chilled food?

A spike in coronavirus infections has been linked to a large wholesale food market in China , after the virus was discovered on chopping boards used for imported salmon .
The development has prompted officials to warn people against eating raw salmon , although the origin of the fresh outbreak remains unclear .
A series of health officials , doctors and other experts have offered their views on the risk of infection from eating or handling frozen or chilled food .
Here 's what the experts say .
Mr Wu told state media coronavirus can survive on the surface of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that his agency `` highly suspects '' contaminated goods were the source of the latest outbreak .
However , he said more investigation was required , as it was possible infected people arriving in Beijing could have spread it .
Jin Dong-Yun , virology professor at the University of Hong Kong '' Virus contraction via frozen food usually involves viruses such as the rotavirus and hepatitis A virus being transmitted through the gastrointestinal tract .
`` It typically happens with contaminated food consumption , which is not the route through which respiratory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not known to be transmitted via consumption of contaminated food .
`` It requires further investigation to determine whether a person can contract the coronavirus either by touching contaminated surface or via direct food consumption . ''
Eyal Leshem , Director of the Centre for Travel Medicine and Tropical Diseases , Sheba Medical Centre , Israel '' There is no evidence of novel coronavirus transmission through food , food containers or food packaging .
The vast majority of infections occur due to close contact with infectious patients .
`` Infection from fresh food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a kitchen worker or waiter goes to work while ill and touches the food , thus transmitting the virus .
`` We think risk from frozen food is very low when proper food preparation guidelines are kept . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Paul Tambyah , president of the Asia Pacific Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases '' A group from Hong Kong has shown that the survival of the virus is significantly altered by temperature and humidity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ report that the virus can survive for only a day at 37C ( 98F ) , compared with a week at 22C ( 71F ) and more than two weeks at 4C ( 39F ) .
`` The data relates to a solid inanimate surfaces , not meat .
`` I am a little sceptical that this outbreak in the market was actually related to a source thousands of miles away carried through frozen food . ''

A spike in coronavirus infections has been linked to a large wholesale food market in China, after the virus was discovered on chopping boards used for imported salmon.
The development has prompted officials to warn people against eating raw salmon, although the origin of the fresh outbreak remains unclear.
A series of health officials, doctors and other experts have offered their views on the risk of infection from eating or handling frozen or chilled food.
Here's what the experts say.
Image: A chopping board used to cut imported salmon tested positive for traces of coronavirus
Wu Zunyou, chief Epidemiologist of China's Centre for Diseases Prevention Control
Mr Wu told state media coronavirus can survive on the surface of frozen food for up to three months and that his agency "highly suspects" contaminated goods were the source of the latest outbreak.
However, he said more investigation was required, as it was possible infected people arriving in Beijing could have spread it.
Jin Dong-Yun, virology professor at the University of Hong Kong
"Virus contraction via frozen food usually involves viruses such as the rotavirus and hepatitis A virus being transmitted through the gastrointestinal tract.
Advertisement
"It typically happens with contaminated food consumption, which is not the route through which respiratory viruses infect people.
"SARS-CoV-2 is not known to be transmitted via consumption of contaminated food.
"It requires further investigation to determine whether a person can contract the coronavirus either by touching contaminated surface or via direct food consumption."
Eyal Leshem, Director of the Centre for Travel Medicine and Tropical Diseases, Sheba Medical Centre, Israel
"There is no evidence of novel coronavirus transmission through food, food containers or food packaging. The vast majority of infections occur due to close contact with infectious patients.
"Infection from fresh food like meat and fish may occur if a kitchen worker or waiter goes to work while ill and touches the food, thus transmitting the virus.
"We think risk from frozen food is very low when proper food preparation guidelines are kept."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Paul Tambyah, president of the Asia Pacific Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
"A group from Hong Kong has shown that the survival of the virus is significantly altered by temperature and humidity.
"It has said in a preliminary report that the virus can survive for only a day at 37C (98F), compared with a week at 22C (71F) and more than two weeks at 4C (39F).
"The data relates to a solid inanimate surfaces, not meat.
"I am a little sceptical that this outbreak in the market was actually related to a source thousands of miles away carried through frozen food."


news--2020-06-17--London mayor Sadiq Khan takes 10% pay cut amid coronavirus pandemic

Sadiq Khan has taken a 10 % pay cut and called on Boris Johnson to bail out local authorities facing funding black holes because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Authorities need help as they face a shortfall of income from business and council tax , the London mayor said .
Mr Khan warned that a funding shortfall of almost £500m in the capital could result in cuts to the Metropolitan Police , London Fire Brigade ( LFB ) , Transport for London ( TfL ) and the Greater London Authority ( GLA ) .
Amid this challenging climate , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immediate reduction to his £152,734 salary , cutting it by almost £15,300 .
Pay for senior appointments at City Hall has also been frozen , Mr Khan announced .
Mr Khan said : `` Londoners did the right thing to tackle COVID-19 by following the rules , staying at home and helping to save lives .
`` But now the government is punishing them with a new era of austerity .
COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on London 's public finances , which were in great shape before the pandemic . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ income had `` dropped by more than 90 % '' and that local business rates and council tax income had `` fallen off a cliff '' , making this `` the worst possible time for a return to austerity '' .
He continued : `` Unless ministers act , the current number of police officers will need to be reduced and it will be impossible to tackle youth violence or make the changes to the London Fire Brigade that are desperately needed after the awful Grenfell Tower tragedy . ''
: : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Khan said the prime minister had to act to ensure he could keep his promise not to return to austerity in order to balance the books .
And he warned that failure to act would jeopardise the government 's plans to recruit 20,000 extra police officers .
Mr Khan said : `` I did n't enter politics to administer government austerity , and I will do everything in my power to persuade ministers not to force another era of austerity on local and regional government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect the frontline services that Londoners depend on as much as possible - and it 's only right that I should volunteer for an immediate pay cut in these extremely difficult circumstances and continue not to take any pension contributions .
`` In addition , I have taken the decision to freeze the salaries of my political appointments at City Hall . ''
Mr Khan will also set out new budget guidance as part of a drive to achieve efficiencies .
The GLA , TfL , Scotland Yard , LFB , London Legacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Royal Development Corporation have been asked to come up with proposals for achieving significant savings by the end of November .
In May , the government provided TfL with a £1.6bn bailout after revenue from fares - the bulk of its income - fell by 90 % .
In the wake of the bailout , it was announced that from 22 June the congestion charge will increase by 30 % and be enforced seven days a week .
The issue has turned into a political row , with Mr Khan accusing the Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay the cost for doing the right thing on COVID-19 '' .
But Shaun Bailey , who is challenging Mr Khan in next year 's mayoral election , accused him of `` bad management '' during the pandemic .
A government spokesman said the capital had been given an `` unprecedented package of support '' - to `` ensure they have the resources they need to provide services for their communities during the pandemic '' .
`` The GLA has received an extra £18.5m of emergency funding and an additional £1.6bn for TfL @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is on top of an increase in core spending power of over £88 million to over £2.27bn , while the Metropolitan Police is receiving £2.9bn in funding this financial year , the most substantial police funding increase since 2010 .
`` We have given London councils £518m in additional emergency funding as part of a total of over £5.3bn of government support for communities and businesses across the city during the pandemic .
`` We are working on a comprehensive plan to ensure councils ' financial sustainability over the year ahead and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able . ''
Asked if he would follow suit and cut his salary , a spokesman for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said : `` Sadiq is the mayor of London , he 's overseeing the GLA , which is going to have a deep financial black hole because of the consequences of the pandemic , and it is right that Sadiq is speaking up for London and speaking up for those concerns . ''

Sadiq Khan has taken a 10% pay cut and called on Boris Johnson to bail out local authorities facing funding black holes because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Authorities need help as they face a shortfall of income from business and council tax, the London mayor said.
Mr Khan warned that a funding shortfall of almost £500m in the capital could result in cuts to the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade (LFB), Transport for London (TfL) and the Greater London Authority (GLA).
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:10 London Mayor: 'TfL bailout is a bad deal'
Amid this challenging climate, the Labour mayor said he was taking an immediate reduction to his £152,734 salary, cutting it by almost £15,300.
Pay for senior appointments at City Hall has also been frozen, Mr Khan announced.
Mr Khan said: "Londoners did the right thing to tackle COVID-19 by following the rules, staying at home and helping to save lives.
"But now the government is punishing them with a new era of austerity. COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on London's public finances, which were in great shape before the pandemic."
Mr Khan said that TfL's fares income had "dropped by more than 90%" and that local business rates and council tax income had "fallen off a cliff", making this "the worst possible time for a return to austerity".
He continued: "Unless ministers act, the current number of police officers will need to be reduced and it will be impossible to tackle youth violence or make the changes to the London Fire Brigade that are desperately needed after the awful Grenfell Tower tragedy."
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Khan said the prime minister had to act to ensure he could keep his promise not to return to austerity in order to balance the books.
And he warned that failure to act would jeopardise the government's plans to recruit 20,000 extra police officers.
Mr Khan said: "I didn't enter politics to administer government austerity, and I will do everything in my power to persuade ministers not to force another era of austerity on local and regional government.
"Whatever happens, I will protect the frontline services that Londoners depend on as much as possible - and it's only right that I should volunteer for an immediate pay cut in these extremely difficult circumstances and continue not to take any pension contributions.
"In addition, I have taken the decision to freeze the salaries of my political appointments at City Hall."
Image: Mr Khan said TfL's fares income has dropped by 'more than 90%' during the pandemic
Mr Khan will also set out new budget guidance as part of a drive to achieve efficiencies.
The GLA, TfL, Scotland Yard, LFB, London Legacy Development Corporation, Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation have been asked to come up with proposals for achieving significant savings by the end of November.
In May, the government provided TfL with a £1.6bn bailout after revenue from fares - the bulk of its income - fell by 90%.
In the wake of the bailout, it was announced that from 22 June the congestion charge will increase by 30% and be enforced seven days a week.
The issue has turned into a political row, with Mr Khan accusing the Department for Transport of "making ordinary Londoners pay the cost for doing the right thing on COVID-19".
But Shaun Bailey, who is challenging Mr Khan in next year's mayoral election, accused him of "bad management" during the pandemic.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:45 'Face coverings mandatory on public transport'
A government spokesman said the capital had been given an "unprecedented package of support" - to "ensure they have the resources they need to provide services for their communities during the pandemic".
"The GLA has received an extra £18.5m of emergency funding and an additional £1.6bn for TfL," they said.
"This is on top of an increase in core spending power of over £88 million to over £2.27bn, while the Metropolitan Police is receiving £2.9bn in funding this financial year, the most substantial police funding increase since 2010.
"We have given London councils £518m in additional emergency funding as part of a total of over £5.3bn of government support for communities and businesses across the city during the pandemic.
"We are working on a comprehensive plan to ensure councils' financial sustainability over the year ahead and we will update as soon as we are able."
Asked if he would follow suit and cut his salary, a spokesman for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "Sadiq is the mayor of London, he's overseeing the GLA, which is going to have a deep financial black hole because of the consequences of the pandemic, and it is right that Sadiq is speaking up for London and speaking up for those concerns."


news--2020-06-17--Qatar Airways boss comes out fighting over social distancing and quarantine

Qatar Airways boss comes out fighting over social distancing and quarantine Qatar Airways boss comes out fighting over social distancing and quarantine As the global aviation industry grapples with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic , one of its biggest names has come out fighting .
Akbar Al Baker , chief executive of Qatar Airways , has condemned demands to introduce social distancing on aircraft because of the outbreak - warning it would push up the price of air travel .
He told Sky News : `` Social distancing is really not necessary in an aeroplane .
`` If that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel go will go up extremely , because you 'll be carrying a 30-40 % load factor on an aeroplane .
`` [ You will still ] have the possibility to infect somebody else , by touch , or by rubbing into each other when you 're going back to your seats .
`` So I think that social distancing really should not be implemented in an aeroplane as long as you 're going to take all the precautions you need - masks , gloves - and in Qatar Airways we are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for cabin crew .
`` We are taking all the mitigating factors to make sure that the air is still the safest way to travel . ''
Mr Al Baker had particularly strong words for how Prime Minister Boris Johnson has imposed a 14-day quarantine period for people arriving in the UK .
`` Your prime minister 's encouraging people to travel , '' he said .
`` So I think it was a bit unwise for him to introduce quarantine when he actually requires people to come and start visiting the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the United Kingdom .
`` I do n't think that it was a really good idea to introduce quarantine at the tail end of the pandemic .
`` In my opinion , they should have been introduced in the beginning , and not at the end . ''
He said he was optimistic that , when the policy was reviewed at the end of June , the UK government might have a change of heart .
His comments carry huge weight because , during the last three months , Qatar Airways has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When lockdowns were introduced around the world , its aircraft flew more than 50 million kilometres during March , April and May to repatriate more than 1.8 million passengers on more than 15,000 flights .
According to data from the International Air Transport Association ( IATA ) , the carrier lifted its share of the global passenger airline market to 17.8 % in April , more than three times that of its nearest competitor and more than the next four airlines combined .
It is currently operating 35 % of its pre-crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he hoped that - as airports open around the world - this would increase to 75 % during the next four to eight weeks .
He said some flights were as busy as 90-92 % full but that , overall , load factors were lower .
Qatar Airways has tried to compensate for fewer passengers by carrying more freight .
Asked when Qatar Airways might return to passenger levels seen before the crisis , Mr Al Baker replied : `` I wish I had a crystal ball .
`` I do n't think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next 24 months . ''
As well as having strong words for the UK government , Mr Al Baker also had a stern warning for others in the industry , most notably the aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing .
Going into the pandemic , Qatar Airways had orders with both for more than 200 aircraft , including 50 A321 neos from Airbus and 60 777Xs from Boeing .
The airline is now seeking to defer delivery of a number of aircraft it has on order .
Mr Al Baker said : `` Quite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We have already notified both Boeing and Airbus that we will not be taking any aeroplanes this year or next year .
`` And all the other aircraft that we have on order , that were supposed to be delivered to us within the next two or three years , will now be pushed back to as long as nearly eight to 10 years . ''
He said that , if traffic increased as business ramped up , Qatar Airways could look at bringing forward those delayed aircraft deliveries .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Airbus ] should know , both of them , that if they do n't oblige to our requirements , then we will have to review our long term business relationships with both of them . ''
He said that Qatar had cancelled orders from Boeing for 30 of the 737 MAX jets grounded last year , following two fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia , because they were no longer required .
Mr Al Baker also dismissed a suggestion that the company 's decision to raise its stake in International Airlines Group - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Aer Lingus - to 25.1 % in February , at a cost of $ 601m , had been poorly timed .
He said : `` [ It ] does n't matter .
We are there and for the long run .
`` It is a strategic investment and we will continue to be an investor in IAG .
`` It 's similar to what we have done to both LATAM and Cathay Pacific [ the Chile and Hong Kong-based carriers , both of which have Qatar as a 10 % shareholder ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when they require our support . ''
He said that support would , if necessary , include injecting more capital into IAG : `` If is necessary , yes , we will inject equity into IAG because it is a long term investment from Qatar Airways . ''
Qatar Airways , like almost every carrier around the world , has responded to the crisis by cutting jobs and deferring the salaries of higher paid employees .
But Mr Al Baker , who in March said he would forego his salary until the airline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions needed to be put in context .
He added : `` We are going to lay off as [ few ] staff as possible .
`` We are going to give salary cuts but it is not going to be permanent .
`` As soon as the services start ramping up , as soon as we go back to the pre-2019 traffic figures , we will eventually ramp up everybody 's salary cuts that we have implemented .
`` The salary cuts that we are implementing are not very extreme .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state that , as soon as the traffic starts ramping up and we start flying , we will give priority to the people that we laid off to come back and again serve Qatar Airways . ''
The mantra for business people down the ages is never to let a good crisis go to waste .
Mr Al Baker 's tough talk suggests Boeing and Airbus should take note .

The boss of what is now the world's largest international carrier has tough words for Airbus and Boeing - and Boris Johnson.
Qatar Airways boss comes out fighting over social distancing and quarantine
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
As the global aviation industry grapples with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, one of its biggest names has come out fighting.
Akbar Al Baker, chief executive of Qatar Airways, has condemned demands to introduce social distancing on aircraft because of the outbreak - warning it would push up the price of air travel.
He told Sky News: "Social distancing is really not necessary in an aeroplane.
"If that is implemented, the prices for air travel go will go up extremely, because you'll be carrying a 30-40% load factor on an aeroplane.
"[You will still] have the possibility to infect somebody else, by touch, or by rubbing into each other when you're going back to your seats.
"So I think that social distancing really should not be implemented in an aeroplane as long as you're going to take all the precautions you need - masks, gloves - and in Qatar Airways we are also supplying face shields and fully clad PPE for cabin crew.
"We are taking all the mitigating factors to make sure that the air is still the safest way to travel."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:34 Full interview: Qatar Airways will not take any new planes in 2020 or 2021.
Mr Al Baker had particularly strong words for how Prime Minister Boris Johnson has imposed a 14-day quarantine period for people arriving in the UK.
"Your prime minister's encouraging people to travel," he said.
Advertisement
"So I think it was a bit unwise for him to introduce quarantine when he actually requires people to come and start visiting the UK and fuelling the economic and business resurgence in the United Kingdom.
"I don't think that it was a really good idea to introduce quarantine at the tail end of the pandemic.
"In my opinion, they should have been introduced in the beginning, and not at the end."
He said he was optimistic that, when the policy was reviewed at the end of June, the UK government might have a change of heart.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:25 Ryanair boss: Face masks 'most effective'
His comments carry huge weight because, during the last three months, Qatar Airways has become the world's largest international carrier.
When lockdowns were introduced around the world, its aircraft flew more than 50 million kilometres during March, April and May to repatriate more than 1.8 million passengers on more than 15,000 flights.
According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the carrier lifted its share of the global passenger airline market to 17.8% in April, more than three times that of its nearest competitor and more than the next four airlines combined.
It is currently operating 35% of its pre-crisis schedule, but Mr Al Baker said he hoped that - as airports open around the world - this would increase to 75% during the next four to eight weeks.
He said some flights were as busy as 90-92% full but that, overall, load factors were lower.
Qatar Airways has tried to compensate for fewer passengers by carrying more freight.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 12:09 IAG chief hints at quarantine legal action
Asked when Qatar Airways might return to passenger levels seen before the crisis, Mr Al Baker replied: "I wish I had a crystal ball.
"I don't think it will be anywhere close in the next 24 months."
As well as having strong words for the UK government, Mr Al Baker also had a stern warning for others in the industry, most notably the aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing.
Going into the pandemic, Qatar Airways had orders with both for more than 200 aircraft, including 50 A321 neos from Airbus and 60 777Xs from Boeing.
The airline is now seeking to defer delivery of a number of aircraft it has on order.
Mr Al Baker said: "Quite a lot of them will be deferred.
"We have already notified both Boeing and Airbus that we will not be taking any aeroplanes this year or next year.
"And all the other aircraft that we have on order, that were supposed to be delivered to us within the next two or three years, will now be pushed back to as long as nearly eight to 10 years."
He said that, if traffic increased as business ramped up, Qatar Airways could look at bringing forward those delayed aircraft deliveries.
Image: Qatar Airways' chief executive does not expect to see pre-pandemic flight demand for two years
But he warned: "[Boeing and Airbus] should know, both of them, that if they don't oblige to our requirements, then we will have to review our long term business relationships with both of them."
He said that Qatar had cancelled orders from Boeing for 30 of the 737 MAX jets grounded last year, following two fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia, because they were no longer required.
Mr Al Baker also dismissed a suggestion that the company's decision to raise its stake in International Airlines Group - the owner of British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus - to 25.1% in February, at a cost of $601m, had been poorly timed.
He said: "[It] doesn't matter. We are there and for the long run.
"It is a strategic investment and we will continue to be an investor in IAG.
"It's similar to what we have done to both LATAM and Cathay Pacific [the Chile and Hong Kong-based carriers, both of which have Qatar as a 10% shareholder].
"We have stood by them when they require our support."
He said that support would, if necessary, include injecting more capital into IAG: "If is necessary, yes, we will inject equity into IAG because it is a long term investment from Qatar Airways."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:38 British Airways considers redundancies
Qatar Airways, like almost every carrier around the world, has responded to the crisis by cutting jobs and deferring the salaries of higher paid employees.
But Mr Al Baker, who in March said he would forego his salary until the airline returned to full operations, insisted the actions needed to be put in context.
He added: "We are going to lay off as [few] staff as possible.
"We are going to give salary cuts but it is not going to be permanent.
"As soon as the services start ramping up, as soon as we go back to the pre-2019 traffic figures, we will eventually ramp up everybody's salary cuts that we have implemented.
"The salary cuts that we are implementing are not very extreme.
"And it is important for me to state that, as soon as the traffic starts ramping up and we start flying, we will give priority to the people that we laid off to come back and again serve Qatar Airways."
The mantra for business people down the ages is never to let a good crisis go to waste.
Mr Al Baker's tough talk suggests Boeing and Airbus should take note.


news--2020-06-17--Coronavirus: Student nurses and midwives voice anger amid row over paid placements

Student nurses and midwives have voiced their anger and frustration amid a row over paid placements during the coronavirus pandemic .
Many have spoken out on social media about their placements finishing at the end of July , instead of running until September as they had been told .
Speaking in the Commons , the health secretary said claims they are being made redundant are `` wrong '' .
`` All student nurses are required to complete placements during their training , '' said Matt Hancock .
`` As part of the response to COVID-19 these hours have been paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the summer .
`` And NHS England has been provided with the funding for student salaries as part of our response to COVID-19 and the chief nurse has taken that forward . ''
Jessie Collins is one of 25,000 student nurses recruited to help with the coronavirus effort .
She signed a contract employing her for six months in a so-called `` opt-in paid placement '' .
She took the role , sidelining her studies and risking her and her family 's safety for the greater good .
As far as she and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were being paid for the duration of their employment .
What they did not expect was to have it cut short .
But from 31 July , all paid placements will come to an end .
Student nurses say it is unfair , that they will likely still be working in coronavirus wards come August and September - only this time they wo n't be being paid for the sacrifice .
Speaking to Sky News , Ms Collins said : `` When I signed the contract in April , me and my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do our bit , we all felt good about it .
`` Differing messages have come through now which has caused so much confusion , ultimately that our contracts wo n't be honoured in full . ''
`` We were told our contracts would run until October , we were told that we would be 'employed ' , and I think that with that term 'employment ' you 're given the idea that this is until the contract ends .
And if it was going to be different , then the wording would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up part-time jobs that they were doing alongside their studies .
`` The government says they appreciate student nurses and appreciate what they bring to the trust so they 'll pay them - but to have that taken away so suddenly is frustrating , '' says Ms Collins .
`` It feels like they were paying us because the COVID risk was there .
It 's stripped away the sense of hope that you 're finally being appreciated . ''
It has highlighted a lot of frustration and anger .
She says she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cohort of nurses who have constantly been hard done by .
Having started in 2017 , they have missed out on the NHS bursary and will graduate with debts in excess of £60,000 .
She says the early termination of the paid contract is the icing on the not-so-inviting cake .
`` I think we 're valuable , we offer a lot of support , '' says Ms Collins .
`` We 're treating patients in exactly the same way and giving the same level of care - I think they need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I feel like the trust has been lost . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In an open letter to care minister Helen Whately , Ms Collins describes her struggles , firstly with battling coronavirus herself and having had her `` mental health tested like never before '' .
`` We 've endured the same stresses and same pressures as any other health professional every single day we were at work and that seemingly counted for nothing , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the ground some weeks to the detriment of our mental health as we struggled with the financial strains that came with it whilst paying the government for the privilege of doing so .
`` This is on top of copious amounts of theory work we had to do alongside . ''
Health Education England , the body in charge of NHS training , says some contracts for final year students will be honoured in full .
Their chief nurse , Mark Radford , outlined in a statement that third year nursing students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be paid until September to allow them to do this .
However , for the rest , he said : `` It was always made clear to students who opted into paid placements the arrangements would need to come to an end at an appropriate point so that students could return to their supernumerary status to complete their registered nursing qualifications as quickly as possible to permanently enter the NHS workforce . ''
The premature ending of these contracts is a sign the NHS is back to normal , as the additional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of strain .
But it has left some feeling short changed , particularly when they have sacrificed so much .

Student nurses and midwives have voiced their anger and frustration amid a row over paid placements during the coronavirus pandemic.
Many have spoken out on social media about their placements finishing at the end of July, instead of running until September as they had been told.
Speaking in the Commons, the health secretary said claims they are being made redundant are "wrong".
Image: Matt Hancock says it is 'wrong' to suggest they are being made redundant
"All student nurses are required to complete placements during their training," said Matt Hancock.
"As part of the response to COVID-19 these hours have been paid and will be until the end of the summer.
"And NHS England has been provided with the funding for student salaries as part of our response to COVID-19 and the chief nurse has taken that forward."
Jessie Collins is one of 25,000 student nurses recruited to help with the coronavirus effort.
She signed a contract employing her for six months in a so-called "opt-in paid placement".
Image: Jessie Collins says 'mixed messages' have caused 'so much confusion'
She took the role, sidelining her studies and risking her and her family's safety for the greater good.
Advertisement
As far as she and many other student nurses were aware, they were being paid for the duration of their employment.
What they did not expect was to have it cut short. But from 31 July, all paid placements will come to an end.
Student nurses say it is unfair, that they will likely still be working in coronavirus wards come August and September - only this time they won't be being paid for the sacrifice.
Speaking to Sky News, Ms Collins said: "When I signed the contract in April, me and my year were so happy and excited to do our bit, we all felt good about it.
"Differing messages have come through now which has caused so much confusion, ultimately that our contracts won't be honoured in full."
"We were told our contracts would run until October, we were told that we would be 'employed', and I think that with that term 'employment' you're given the idea that this is until the contract ends. And if it was going to be different, then the wording would be clearer."
Many have given up part-time jobs that they were doing alongside their studies.
Image: Ms Collins has suffered from coronavirus herself
"The government says they appreciate student nurses and appreciate what they bring to the trust so they'll pay them - but to have that taken away so suddenly is frustrating," says Ms Collins.
"It feels like they were paying us because the COVID risk was there. It's stripped away the sense of hope that you're finally being appreciated."
It has highlighted a lot of frustration and anger.
She says she feels like she is part of a cohort of nurses who have constantly been hard done by.
Having started in 2017, they have missed out on the NHS bursary and will graduate with debts in excess of £60,000.
She says the early termination of the paid contract is the icing on the not-so-inviting cake.
"I think we're valuable, we offer a lot of support," says Ms Collins.
"We're treating patients in exactly the same way and giving the same level of care - I think they need to respect that they made us a promise.
"I feel like the trust has been lost."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In an open letter to care minister Helen Whately, Ms Collins describes her struggles, firstly with battling coronavirus herself and having had her "mental health tested like never before".
"We've endured the same stresses and same pressures as any other health professional every single day we were at work and that seemingly counted for nothing," she said.
"We worked ourselves into the ground some weeks to the detriment of our mental health as we struggled with the financial strains that came with it whilst paying the government for the privilege of doing so.
"This is on top of copious amounts of theory work we had to do alongside."
Health Education England, the body in charge of NHS training, says some contracts for final year students will be honoured in full.
Their chief nurse, Mark Radford, outlined in a statement that third year nursing students who have "hours to complete" will be paid until September to allow them to do this.
However, for the rest, he said: "It was always made clear to students who opted into paid placements the arrangements would need to come to an end at an appropriate point so that students could return to their supernumerary status to complete their registered nursing qualifications as quickly as possible to permanently enter the NHS workforce."
The premature ending of these contracts is a sign the NHS is back to normal, as the additional support can be stripped back following months of strain.
But it has left some feeling short changed, particularly when they have sacrificed so much.