news--2020-03-20--PM will be defined by his leadership as Britain enters its darkest hour

It is 100 days since Boris Johnson won a Conservative ballot box victory on a scale not seen since the days of Margaret Thatcher .
Here he was , a prime minister with the parliamentary majority to match his ambition to build a post-Brexit utopia of better infrastructure across Britain and opportunity for all over his five-year term .
Instead he finds himself fighting an invisible enemy that is tearing apart the nation 's economy , society and its health .
The decisions he takes as prime minister on a daily basis will help determine how many of his citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested like no other leader since Sir Winston Churchill was during the Second World War .
How he carries the country through this crisis will define his leadership and determine his legacy .
`` I think it 's going to be hell , '' is how Sir Nicholas Soames , former Conservative MP and Churchill 's grandson described the prime minister 's predicament to me .
`` It must be horrific and he must be exhausted .
`` But as my grandpa used to say 'if you have a bear in your bedroom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' - you 've just got to deal with what 's facing you as well as you can . ''
And so far , as economic confidence has fallen through the floor and anxiety levels ratcheted up , the country has got behind their prime minister , with 59 per cent of the public saying they believed the government was handling the crisis well , according to a YouGov/Sky News poll released on Friday .
: : Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by his unflappable chief medical officer Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance , has become the bread and butter of a nation starving for information about this epidemic .
The scale and pace of change is bewildering and the public are clamouring for information and answers .
Civil servants , health care workers , scientists , government advisers , ministers , everyone is scrambling to try to gear up for a crisis that is out-running all of us .
Mistakes will be made , information will be miscommunicated , areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And the figurehead for all of the anxiety , the suffering , the frustration , the grief , is Mr Johnson ; it is a huge weight for anyone to bear .
His is a difficult line to tread .
Mr Johnson must deliver the public bad news on a daily basis while also somehow trying to rally a very scared nation .
The gravity of the situation has at times been etched into his face .
He looked positively ashen on Monday as he told the country the elderly would have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stop socialising and hunker down in our homes if anyone in the family had a cough or temperature .
He knows the news is only going to get more and more difficult as this disease begins to spread more widely and claim more and more lives .
You only have to look to Italy - a few weeks along the epidemic curve from us - where there have now been 4,032 deaths and over 47,000 cases .
The severity of the situation has forced him to play the role of the sombre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ natural persona .
His instinct is to charm and cajole his audience .
This is a politician who trades in bonhomie to disarm his detractors .
His optimism helped win him a massive majority and can be a devastating political tool .
But his attempts to inject some `` boosterism '' into this health battle by declaring Britain could `` send coronavirus packing '' in twelve weeks is risky .
In trying to lift his people , he is in danger of peddling false hope .
His promise to turn the tide simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Official papers say clearly strict social distancing will almost certainly have to continue for six months in order not to overwhelm the NHS .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
I suspect he 's trying to give people some hope , a timeline they can handle when the reality of their changing lives feels overwhelming .
The nation will need Mr Johnson 's optimism and belief in Britain in the coming months .
But it will also need - perhaps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and gravitas .
You only have to glance at the support measures announced on Friday to see that this is an economic and health crisis not seen in lifetimes .
The state is closing down the country , propping up businesses and paying our wages , Mr Johnson is temporarily nationalising our economy : When he won the election he did not expect to have to do that .
Like Churchill in 1940 , he is leading the country through an unprecedented national emergency .
He won the power to change Britain through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson is being forced to rewrite the rules of the economy and society on the back of a pandemic that is radically altering not just our own country but the entire world .
We are about to enter the sort of darkest hours we 've not had to endure for decades .
Mr Johnson will be defined on how well he leads us through .

It is 100 days since Boris Johnson won a Conservative ballot box victory on a scale not seen since the days of Margaret Thatcher.
Here he was, a prime minister with the parliamentary majority to match his ambition to build a post-Brexit utopia of better infrastructure across Britain and opportunity for all over his five-year term.
Instead he finds himself fighting an invisible enemy that is tearing apart the nation's economy, society and its health. The decisions he takes as prime minister on a daily basis will help determine how many of his citizens live or die.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 16:59 In full: PM and Chancellor's update
He will be tested like no other leader since Sir Winston Churchill was during the Second World War. How he carries the country through this crisis will define his leadership and determine his legacy.
"I think it's going to be hell," is how Sir Nicholas Soames, former Conservative MP and Churchill's grandson described the prime minister's predicament to me. "It must be horrific and he must be exhausted.
"But as my grandpa used to say 'if you have a bear in your bedroom it's not a matter of speculation' - you've just got to deal with what's facing you as well as you can."
And so far, as economic confidence has fallen through the floor and anxiety levels ratcheted up, the country has got behind their prime minister, with 59 per cent of the public saying they believed the government was handling the crisis well, according to a YouGov/Sky News poll released on Friday.
:: Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The daily press conferences he fronts, flanked by his unflappable chief medical officer Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance, has become the bread and butter of a nation starving for information about this epidemic.
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The scale and pace of change is bewildering and the public are clamouring for information and answers. Civil servants, health care workers, scientists, government advisers, ministers, everyone is scrambling to try to gear up for a crisis that is out-running all of us.
Image: Boris Johnson won the general election 100 days ago
Mistakes will be made, information will be miscommunicated, areas that need attention will be overlooked.
And the figurehead for all of the anxiety, the suffering, the frustration, the grief, is Mr Johnson; it is a huge weight for anyone to bear.
His is a difficult line to tread. Mr Johnson must deliver the public bad news on a daily basis while also somehow trying to rally a very scared nation.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:22 How has COVID-19 affected the mood of the UK?
The gravity of the situation has at times been etched into his face. He looked positively ashen on Monday as he told the country the elderly would have to self-isolate and that we would all have to stop socialising and hunker down in our homes if anyone in the family had a cough or temperature.
He knows the news is only going to get more and more difficult as this disease begins to spread more widely and claim more and more lives.
You only have to look to Italy - a few weeks along the epidemic curve from us - where there have now been 4,032 deaths and over 47,000 cases.
The severity of the situation has forced him to play the role of the sombre and straight prime minister - not his natural persona. His instinct is to charm and cajole his audience. This is a politician who trades in bonhomie to disarm his detractors. His optimism helped win him a massive majority and can be a devastating political tool.
But his attempts to inject some "boosterism" into this health battle by declaring Britain could "send coronavirus packing" in twelve weeks is risky. In trying to lift his people, he is in danger of peddling false hope.
His promise to turn the tide simply doesn't match up with the reality. Official papers say clearly strict social distancing will almost certainly have to continue for six months in order not to overwhelm the NHS.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
I suspect he's trying to give people some hope, a timeline they can handle when the reality of their changing lives feels overwhelming.
The nation will need Mr Johnson's optimism and belief in Britain in the coming months. But it will also need - perhaps more - a prime minister with composure and gravitas.
You only have to glance at the support measures announced on Friday to see that this is an economic and health crisis not seen in lifetimes.
The state is closing down the country, propping up businesses and paying our wages, Mr Johnson is temporarily nationalising our economy: When he won the election he did not expect to have to do that.
Like Churchill in 1940, he is leading the country through an unprecedented national emergency.
He won the power to change Britain through the ballot box, but now Boris Johnson is being forced to rewrite the rules of the economy and society on the back of a pandemic that is radically altering not just our own country but the entire world.
We are about to enter the sort of darkest hours we've not had to endure for decades. Mr Johnson will be defined on how well he leads us through.


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: British Airways pilots to take 50% pay cut in April and May

British Airways pilots are going to take a 50 % pay cut in April and May as the airline battles to survive the coronavirus crisis .
The drastic measures mean BA 's 4,500 pilots will take two weeks of unpaid leave in each month - but the reduction to their wages will be spread over the next three months .
In a letter to staff seen by Sky News , British Airways said the plan had been agreed with the pilots ' union BALPA to fight `` the immediate threat to the business in the face of COVID-19 and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airline '' .
It adds that the move is `` to protect the future of the business and jobs '' - and in order to reduce the impact on take home pay , there will be the option to suspend pensions contributions .
Under the deal , it is indicated that a consultation on threatened redundancies is going to be put on hold .
The letter states : `` We are committed to finding solutions and will focus any future discussions on exploring and exhausting all voluntary measures .
`` We acknowledge that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and their families .
BA and BALPA are committed to working together to find solutions during this unprecedented period and support the future of our airline . ''
Last week , BA chief executive Alex Cruz warned jobs would be lost and planes grounded in the face of the commercial turmoil caused by the pandemic , which has seen worldwide flight cancellations and plunging demand .
In message to employees - titled `` The Survival of British Airways '' - Mr Cruz said the current crisis was more serious for the airline industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Willie Walsh , the chief executive of BA 's owner IAG , has taken a 20 % pay cut for the rest of his contract until the end of June , according to the Financial Times .
The bosses of IAG 's other airlines , which include Aer Lingus and Iberia , are also taking a salary reduction .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Other airlines have also taken measures in a bid to weather the storm .
EasyJet and BALPA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of pilot lay-offs in the UK over the next 18 months , including a pay freeze and asking all crew to take unpaid leave for three months .
Meanwhile , Qantas Airways has told most of its 30,000 staff to take leave and Lufthansa warned the industry may not survive without a state bailout if the pandemic continues for a long time .

British Airways pilots are going to take a 50% pay cut in April and May as the airline battles to survive the coronavirus crisis.
The drastic measures mean BA's 4,500 pilots will take two weeks of unpaid leave in each month - but the reduction to their wages will be spread over the next three months.
In a letter to staff seen by Sky News, British Airways said the plan had been agreed with the pilots' union BALPA to fight "the immediate threat to the business in the face of COVID-19 and the unprecedented impact this is having on the airline".
It adds that the move is "to protect the future of the business and jobs" - and in order to reduce the impact on take home pay, there will be the option to suspend pensions contributions.
Under the deal, it is indicated that a consultation on threatened redundancies is going to be put on hold.
The letter states: "We are committed to finding solutions and will focus any future discussions on exploring and exhausting all voluntary measures.
"We acknowledge that this situation is hugely challenging for individuals and their families. BA and BALPA are committed to working together to find solutions during this unprecedented period and support the future of our airline."
Last week, BA chief executive Alex Cruz warned jobs would be lost and planes grounded in the face of the commercial turmoil caused by the pandemic, which has seen worldwide flight cancellations and plunging demand.
In message to employees - titled "The Survival of British Airways" - Mr Cruz said the current crisis was more serious for the airline industry than 9/11 and the financial crash.
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Willie Walsh, the chief executive of BA's owner IAG, has taken a 20% pay cut for the rest of his contract until the end of June, according to the Financial Times.
The bosses of IAG's other airlines, which include Aer Lingus and Iberia, are also taking a salary reduction.
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Other airlines have also taken measures in a bid to weather the storm.
EasyJet and BALPA have signed an agreement to minimise the risk of pilot lay-offs in the UK over the next 18 months, including a pay freeze and asking all crew to take unpaid leave for three months.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 UK can 'turn tide on virus within 12 weeks'
Meanwhile, Qantas Airways has told most of its 30,000 staff to take leave and Lufthansa warned the industry may not survive without a state bailout if the pandemic continues for a long time.


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Farnborough Airshow cancelled as COVID-19 hammers UK aviation

The Farnborough International Airshow , the world ’ s biggest showcase for the defence and aviation sectors , is to be cancelled as the coronavirus pandemic hammers large swathes of global trade .
Sky News has learnt that ADS , the trade body which controls the week-long event through a dedicated subsidiary , is expected to announce on Friday that the July show is being called off .
The move , while not unexpected as major international events fall victim to the pandemic , will be a bitter blow to British exporters and the Hampshire economy .
It also comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aviation sector , which has been left reeling by the almost-total cessation of international air travel .
Industry sources said a formal decision would be taken at a board meeting of Farnborough International , which organises the biennial event .
Roughly 80,000 trade visitors attend the event , with nearly $ 200bn of orders placed there in 2018 .
Farnborough also plays host to some of the world 's most spectacular air displays , although the public weekend at this year 's show had already been cancelled in the aftermath of the Shoreham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision to cancel was being made now because of the months-long preparations required to get the vast site ready for the event .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Other prominent events to fall victim to the COVID-19 outbreak include EURO 2020 , which has been delayed until next year , and the Glastonbury Festival .

The Farnborough International Airshow, the world’s biggest showcase for the defence and aviation sectors, is to be cancelled as the coronavirus pandemic hammers large swathes of global trade.
Sky News has learnt that ADS, the trade body which controls the week-long event through a dedicated subsidiary, is expected to announce on Friday that the July show is being called off.
The move, while not unexpected as major international events fall victim to the pandemic, will be a bitter blow to British exporters and the Hampshire economy.
It also comes at a disastrous time for the broader aviation sector, which has been left reeling by the almost-total cessation of international air travel.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 UK can 'turn tide on virus within 12 weeks'
Industry sources said a formal decision would be taken at a board meeting of Farnborough International, which organises the biennial event.
Roughly 80,000 trade visitors attend the event, with nearly $200bn of orders placed there in 2018.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:19 Inside Italy's coronavirus crisis wards
Farnborough also plays host to some of the world's most spectacular air displays, although the public weekend at this year's show had already been cancelled in the aftermath of the Shoreham air disaster.
One source said the decision to cancel was being made now because of the months-long preparations required to get the vast site ready for the event.
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Other prominent events to fall victim to the COVID-19 outbreak include EURO 2020, which has been delayed until next year, and the Glastonbury Festival.
ADS declined to comment on Friday morning.


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Former NHS nurse returning to frontline - I have a responsibility

Retired medical staff have a responsibility to use their knowledge and expertise to help the NHS at this time of crisis , a former nurse has told Sky News .
The 64-year-old former practice nurse , who also worked as a midwife , has applied to re-register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council following the government 's `` Your NHS Needs You '' appeal .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is urging 65,000 former doctors and nurses to help fight the coronavirus outbreak which has so far killed 145 people in the UK .
After working for the NHS for more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in general practice running a respiratory clinic - and retiring last year , she said she knows her experience would be useful in the fight against COVID-19 .
Speaking anonymously , she told Sky News she had re-registered because she has a `` responsibility to use her knowledge and expertise and put it to good use '' .
While working on the frontline in hospitals is unlikely to be an option she said she could help with the inundated 111 helplines or work in triage .
`` Obviously I would want to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at risk , or put my own family members at risk , '' she said .
`` And I would want adequate training to do my job properly . ''
Addressing concerns that some returning staff may be a little rusty on some of their training , she said there would be many other ways they could help .
`` If you lack the clinical skills there is definitely a role for mentoring .
People on the frontline are having a difficult time and need support from others who understand their situation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ never seen anything like the current situation in her four decades of working in the industry .
`` I think the NHS is coping very well under very difficult circumstances but it needs as much support as possible . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hancock said some retired medics who return to work in the NHS to fight the coronavirus will be able to come `` straight back in '' .
However , the nurse said it is inevitable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an administrative nightmare and has no idea how quickly it will be pushed through .

Retired medical staff have a responsibility to use their knowledge and expertise to help the NHS at this time of crisis, a former nurse has told Sky News.
The 64-year-old former practice nurse, who also worked as a midwife, has applied to re-register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council following the government's "Your NHS Needs You" appeal.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is urging 65,000 former doctors and nurses to help fight the coronavirus outbreak which has so far killed 145 people in the UK.
After working for the NHS for more than 40 years - including 20 years in general practice running a respiratory clinic - and retiring last year, she said she knows her experience would be useful in the fight against COVID-19.
Speaking anonymously, she told Sky News she had re-registered because she has a "responsibility to use her knowledge and expertise and put it to good use".
While working on the frontline in hospitals is unlikely to be an option she said she could help with the inundated 111 helplines or work in triage.
"Obviously I would want to be assured that I wouldn't be put at risk, or put my own family members at risk," she said.
"And I would want adequate training to do my job properly."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:02 'Please come back' retired NHS staff urged
Addressing concerns that some returning staff may be a little rusty on some of their training, she said there would be many other ways they could help.
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"If you lack the clinical skills there is definitely a role for mentoring. People on the frontline are having a difficult time and need support from others who understand their situation."
The former nurse said she had never seen anything like the current situation in her four decades of working in the industry.
"I think the NHS is coping very well under very difficult circumstances but it needs as much support as possible."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Hancock said some retired medics who return to work in the NHS to fight the coronavirus will be able to come "straight back in".
However, the nurse said it is inevitable that re-registering thousands of people will be an administrative nightmare and has no idea how quickly it will be pushed through.


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Britain's economic heart attack has suspended capitalism as we know it

Capitalism has been suspended in the UK .
That is the ultimate consequence of the extraordinary moves announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak on Friday evening .
Never before has the government of this country stepped in to pay a major chunk of workers ' wages in companies across the nation .
It is a move of such consequence that the numbers involved - 80 % of the salaries of affected workers , caps of £2,500 per worker , potentially £4bn of money flowing out of the Exchequer every quarter - are dwarfed by the symbolism .
A Conservative government is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , paying most of the wages of workers instead of their employers .
It is a move which even the hardest-left of administrations would have steered clear of for terrifying investors and the markets .
Yet here is the strange thing : this move might be the only way to convince investors that the UK authorities are serious about preventing the economy from imploding altogether .
For the reality is that Britain is in the middle of an economic heart attack .
Right now .
Never before has it faced a crisis of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has given rise to a lifestyle crisis that has given rise to the most monumental economic crisis of our lifetimes .
Right now , employers are deciding whether to fire staff or pay taxes or simply shut down their businesses .
What else would you do if you were a restaurant owner who was now forced to close and might not be able to claim insurance ?
What would you do if you ran a travel business when borders are suddenly closed around the world for the foreseeable future ?
: : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Some people can carry on working but the reality is that vast swathes of this economy have gone into hibernation .
Or simply shut down .
This is something which is deeper and scarier than the financial crisis .
It is a crisis whose timescale has been measured in hours .
We have heard , anecdotally , about thousands of workers losing their jobs abruptly in recent days - all because their bosses have just , through no fault of their own , lost their entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been growing concern that the Treasury was n't moving fast enough - that instead of using an economic bazooka it was firing a pea shooter .
There were targeted measures to alleviate the costs of business rates and to loan money to firms .
But none of this was enough to convince Britain 's many small businesses - the lifeblood of the economy - to stop firing their staff .
But the chancellor 's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme , as it is called , might just be that scheme .
For the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ step in and subsidise salaries across all companies affected by the direct economic impact of the virus .
There will be small print .
There will be questions asked about whether the eligible criteria are too stringent .
But the scheme looks to be as generous , if not more so , than even the more radical economists expected .
There were other measures designed to prevent the rise in unemployment .
VAT payments have been suspended for the next quarter - a big deal given those bills are due in a matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generous Universal Credit payments and support for renters .
And , frankly , this is still unlikely to be enough .
There will probably have to be more measures in the coming weeks as the picture of the economy becomes clearer .
But still ... contemplate this for a moment .
The relationship between the state and its citizens has changed dramatically .
: : Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Britons will have to endure genuinely draconian bans on socialising in the coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find that their pay cheque is being financed not by their employers but by the government .
Who will literally be paying them for staying at home .
It 's an extraordinary move - especially from a Conservative government .
And in case that was n't enough , consider this : the mountains of debt paying for this policy will be financed not by private investors but by the Bank of England .
Earlier this week I asked the Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey if he would contemplate such a radical move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distributed to British people .
In effect , we are now seeing the closest thing Britain has ever had to that .
Normal life has been suspended by COVID-19 .
And now , so has capitalism as we know it .

Capitalism has been suspended in the UK.
That is the ultimate consequence of the extraordinary moves announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak on Friday evening.
Never before has the government of this country stepped in to pay a major chunk of workers' wages in companies across the nation.
It is a move of such consequence that the numbers involved - 80% of the salaries of affected workers, caps of £2,500 per worker, potentially £4bn of money flowing out of the Exchequer every quarter - are dwarfed by the symbolism.
A Conservative government is effectively nationalising parts of the private sector, paying most of the wages of workers instead of their employers.
Image: A pub has a sign saying it has shut after the government told the public to stay at home
It is a move which even the hardest-left of administrations would have steered clear of for terrifying investors and the markets.
Yet here is the strange thing: this move might be the only way to convince investors that the UK authorities are serious about preventing the economy from imploding altogether.
For the reality is that Britain is in the middle of an economic heart attack. Right now.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:21 Business owner reacts to news of government support
Never before has it faced a crisis of these dimensions - a health crisis that has given rise to a lifestyle crisis that has given rise to the most monumental economic crisis of our lifetimes.
Advertisement
Right now, employers are deciding whether to fire staff or pay taxes or simply shut down their businesses.
What else would you do if you were a restaurant owner who was now forced to close and might not be able to claim insurance?
What would you do if you ran a travel business when borders are suddenly closed around the world for the foreseeable future?
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Some people can carry on working but the reality is that vast swathes of this economy have gone into hibernation. Or simply shut down. This is something which is deeper and scarier than the financial crisis.
It is a crisis whose timescale has been measured in hours. We have heard, anecdotally, about thousands of workers losing their jobs abruptly in recent days - all because their bosses have just, through no fault of their own, lost their entire income stream.
Up until now there had been growing concern that the Treasury wasn't moving fast enough - that instead of using an economic bazooka it was firing a pea shooter.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:39 Now time for UK to stand together - chancellor
There were targeted measures to alleviate the costs of business rates and to loan money to firms. But none of this was enough to convince Britain's many small businesses - the lifeblood of the economy - to stop firing their staff.
But the chancellor's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, as it is called, might just be that scheme.
For the first time ever, the government will step in and subsidise salaries across all companies affected by the direct economic impact of the virus. There will be small print. There will be questions asked about whether the eligible criteria are too stringent.
But the scheme looks to be as generous, if not more so, than even the more radical economists expected.
There were other measures designed to prevent the rise in unemployment. VAT payments have been suspended for the next quarter - a big deal given those bills are due in a matter of days. There will be more generous Universal Credit payments and support for renters.
And, frankly, this is still unlikely to be enough. There will probably have to be more measures in the coming weeks as the picture of the economy becomes clearer.
But still... contemplate this for a moment. The relationship between the state and its citizens has changed dramatically.
:: Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Britons will have to endure genuinely draconian bans on socialising in the coming weeks. And many of them will find that their pay cheque is being financed not by their employers but by the government. Who will literally be paying them for staying at home.
It's an extraordinary move - especially from a Conservative government. And in case that wasn't enough, consider this: the mountains of debt paying for this policy will be financed not by private investors but by the Bank of England.
An extraordinary moment.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:54 PM orders pubs and restaurants to close across UK
Earlier this week I asked the Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey if he would contemplate such a radical move - the Bank creating money to be distributed to British people.
In effect, we are now seeing the closest thing Britain has ever had to that.
Normal life has been suspended by COVID-19.
And now, so has capitalism as we know it.


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: 'There are places you can trust' - Minister warns against disinformation

The UK 's armed forces minister has issued a warning about fake news and disinformation on the coronavirus pandemic and the UK response .
James Heappey urged the public to look to credible news outlets and to check government websites for accurate updates on the coronavirus crisis .
`` We need people to know that there are places they can trust to get their information so they do n't have their head turned by the stuff that is just outright wrong or in some cases malicious , '' he told Sky News in an interview .
The comments came as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ putting out disinformation on COVID-19 in line with an alleged Russian strategy to `` sow distrust and chaos and exacerbate crisis situations '' .
Moscow denied the allegation , accusing the EU of `` fake news '' .
Mr Heappey said this kind of activity alleged by Brussels `` is a long-established pattern of Russian behaviour '' .
`` We have seen it where Russia and other adversaries around the world have seen opportunity in natural disasters or other moments of crisis to challenge the reputation or the actions of other western governments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ habit of doing , '' he said .
The minister , a former army officer , said what is important is for the public to know where they can access accurate information about the pandemic and how Britain is responding .
`` I am so proud what our people are doing - the RAF medics who have brought people back from Cuba , the drivers who are off to learn how to drive oxygen tankers , our amazing planners that are out there with local resilience forums , helping local government to prepare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell people everything that we are doing .
The problem is everyone is more interested in all this made up stuff of the things that we have no plans to do whatsoever . ''
He described reports that circulated on social media in recent days of soldiers on the streets in south London possibly being linked with a new COVID-19 military force when actually they were reservist soldiers simply turning up to their base for regular training .
`` I think most of the instances are people just getting the wrong end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There will be a couple of things where people have seen videos of tanks and thought : well here is an opportunity to stir up some trouble or even worse just to extend their social media reach .
And that 's really frustrating because it 's opportunistic and it 's misleading and it makes people worried .
`` And then of course there is the reality that people are doing this very deliberately to sow disinformation , to erode trust in the UK government and that is something as a government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aware of , we need to try to tackle , but the priority is to tell people where they can go to get information they can trust . ''
In a report published on Thursday , the EU 's European External Access Service highlighted more than 110 `` corona-related disinformation cases '' it said were by pro-Kremlin media outlets .
It included a clip in which a commentator suggests Britain 's defence laboratory may have developed a vaccine for the virus a year ago .
He also alludes to a false rumour suggesting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salisbury spy poisoning.in 2018. : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The report looked at a range of false claims from around the world about the virus - not just by Russia-linked outlets - that it said have flooded television , print and social media channels since the disease was first identified in China late last year .
`` We are witnessing a substantive amount of both misinformation and disinformation spreading on- and offline , '' according to the assessment .
`` While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information , disinformation campaigns entail the intentional production and/or dissemination of verifiably false content , spread either for political or financial reasons . ''
An internal document by the EU agency that has not been made public - but a copy of which has been seen by Sky News - contained more pointed criticism of Russia .
`` A significant disinformation campaign by Russian state media and pro-Kremlin outlets regarding COVID-19 is ongoing , '' the nine-page note said .
Its content was first reported by the Financial Times .
`` The overarching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public health crisis in Western countries , specifically by undermining public trust in national healthcare systems - thus preventing an effective response to the outbreak . ''

The UK's armed forces minister has issued a warning about fake news and disinformation on the coronavirus pandemic and the UK response.
James Heappey urged the public to look to credible news outlets and to check government websites for accurate updates on the coronavirus crisis.
"We need people to know that there are places they can trust to get their information so they don't have their head turned by the stuff that is just outright wrong or in some cases malicious," he told Sky News in an interview.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:32 Why does Russia have so few COVID-19 cases?
The comments came as the European Union accused pro-Kremlin media of putting out disinformation on COVID-19 in line with an alleged Russian strategy to "sow distrust and chaos and exacerbate crisis situations".
Moscow denied the allegation, accusing the EU of "fake news".
Mr Heappey said this kind of activity alleged by Brussels "is a long-established pattern of Russian behaviour".
"We have seen it where Russia and other adversaries around the world have seen opportunity in natural disasters or other moments of crisis to challenge the reputation or the actions of other western governments and that is what they have a habit of doing," he said.
The minister, a former army officer, said what is important is for the public to know where they can access accurate information about the pandemic and how Britain is responding.
"I am so proud what our people are doing - the RAF medics who have brought people back from Cuba, the drivers who are off to learn how to drive oxygen tankers, our amazing planners that are out there with local resilience forums, helping local government to prepare themselves.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:54 How do you make a misinformation vaccine?
"I am itching to tell people everything that we are doing. The problem is everyone is more interested in all this made up stuff of the things that we have no plans to do whatsoever."
He described reports that circulated on social media in recent days of soldiers on the streets in south London possibly being linked with a new COVID-19 military force when actually they were reservist soldiers simply turning up to their base for regular training.
"I think most of the instances are people just getting the wrong end of the stick," Mr Heappey said.
"There will be a couple of things where people have seen videos of tanks and thought: well here is an opportunity to stir up some trouble or even worse just to extend their social media reach. And that's really frustrating because it's opportunistic and it's misleading and it makes people worried.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:21 'Cafes, pubs and restaurants must close tonight'
"And then of course there is the reality that people are doing this very deliberately to sow disinformation, to erode trust in the UK government and that is something as a government, as an MOD we are very aware of, we need to try to tackle, but the priority is to tell people where they can go to get information they can trust."
In a report published on Thursday, the EU's European External Access Service highlighted more than 110 "corona-related disinformation cases" it said were by pro-Kremlin media outlets.
It included a clip in which a commentator suggests Britain's defence laboratory may have developed a vaccine for the virus a year ago. He also alludes to a false rumour suggesting a link between Porton Down and the Salisbury spy poisoning.in 2018.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The report looked at a range of false claims from around the world about the virus - not just by Russia-linked outlets - that it said have flooded television, print and social media channels since the disease was first identified in China late last year.
"We are witnessing a substantive amount of both misinformation and disinformation spreading on- and offline," according to the assessment.
"While misinformation involves the unintentional spread of false information, disinformation campaigns entail the intentional production and/or dissemination of verifiably false content, spread either for political or financial reasons."
An internal document by the EU agency that has not been made public - but a copy of which has been seen by Sky News - contained more pointed criticism of Russia.
"A significant disinformation campaign by Russian state media and pro-Kremlin outlets regarding COVID-19 is ongoing," the nine-page note said. Its content was first reported by the Financial Times.
"The overarching aim of Kremlin disinformation is to aggravate the public health crisis in Western countries, specifically by undermining public trust in national healthcare systems - thus preventing an effective response to the outbreak."


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Parents with these jobs can continue to send their children to school

Many schools are shutting their gates until further notice as the government ramps up measures to stop the spread of coronavirus .
The Department for Education has published a list of `` key workers '' deemed `` essential '' to the COVID-19 response and whose children will continue to be cared for at school amid the pandemic .
It said : `` The most recent scientific advice on how to further limit the spread of COVID-19 is clear .
If children can stay safely at home , they should , to limit the chance of the virus spreading .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents to keep their children at home , wherever possible , and asked schools to remain open only for those children who absolutely need to attend . ''
But the department added : `` If your work is critical to the COVID-19 response , or you work in one of the critical sectors listed below , and you can not keep your child safe at home then your children will be prioritised for education provision , '' the Department for Education said .
The list has been separated into eight categories : Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social care staff - such as doctors , nurses , midwives , paramedics , as well as support and specialist staff in the health and social care sector .
In addition , those working in supply chains , including producers and distributors of medicines and personal protective equipment , are included .
Education and childcare Includes nursery , teaching staff and social workers , as the department said these workers are required to deliver their plans .
Key public services Those required to run the justice system , religious staff , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and journalists providing public service broadcasting are on the list .
Local and national government The list `` only includes administrative occupations essential to the effective delivery of the COVID-19 response or delivering essential public services '' , including payment of benefits .
Food and other necessary goods Includes those involved in the production , processing , distribution , sale and delivery of food .
Public safety and national security Police , support staff , Ministry of Defence civilian staff and armed forces personnel are on the list , along with fire and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible for border security , prison and probation staff .
Transport Includes those who will keep `` air , water , road and rail passenger and freight transport modes operating during the COVID-19 response '' .
Utilities , communication and financial services Staff required to keep oil , gas , electricity , water and sewerage operations running are on the list , along with those in the civil nuclear , chemical and telecommunications sectors .
Those in postal services and working to provide essential financial services provision are also included .
The parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people allowed to continue sending their children to school .
The government says this group will include those who have a social worker and those with Education , Health and Care Plans - a legal document that describes a child 's special educational needs and the support they require .
Many schools in England will shut their gates on Friday until further notice , as will nurseries , colleges and childminders .
In Scotland and Wales , all schools will have closed by Friday , and schools in Northern Ireland are due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are to remain open during the closures , while educational settings will continue to cater for vulnerable children and pupils whose parents are key workers .
The `` key workers '' list was expected to be published on Thursday but was delayed until Friday morning - prompting criticism .
The Early Years Alliance acknowledged it comes during `` incredibly challenging times '' , but said that a delay in establishing who would be able to access childcare from Monday would make an `` already difficult task near-impossible '' .
: : Listen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Chief executive Neil Leitch said : `` Providers need to know how many children may be accessing places at their settings to be able to make any kind of plan to continue delivering childcare next week . ''
Saying there could be `` no more delays '' , he added : `` The government has long warned that school and childcare closures could form part of their coronavirus action plans , so we are baffled as to why it is not better prepared for this situation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ acting general secretary Chris Keates said : `` Schools have been plunged into chaos and confusion as they try to answer such basic questions as who are the key workers , how do we identify their children , what evidence is it reasonable to request from parents and what happens if other children turn up for school .
`` Teachers are unclear whether they should be in work or out or what they will be expected to do if they are in work . ''

Many schools are shutting their gates until further notice as the government ramps up measures to stop the spread of coronavirus.
The Department for Education has published a list of "key workers" deemed "essential" to the COVID-19 response and whose children will continue to be cared for at school amid the pandemic.
It said: "The most recent scientific advice on how to further limit the spread of COVID-19 is clear. If children can stay safely at home, they should, to limit the chance of the virus spreading.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 PM: UK schools to close from Friday
"That is why the government has asked parents to keep their children at home, wherever possible, and asked schools to remain open only for those children who absolutely need to attend."
But the department added: "If your work is critical to the COVID-19 response, or you work in one of the critical sectors listed below, and you cannot keep your child safe at home then your children will be prioritised for education provision," the Department for Education said.
The list has been separated into eight categories:
Health and social care
Includes frontline health and social care staff - such as doctors, nurses, midwives, paramedics, as well as support and specialist staff in the health and social care sector. In addition, those working in supply chains, including producers and distributors of medicines and personal protective equipment, are included.
Education and childcare
Includes nursery, teaching staff and social workers, as the department said these workers are required to deliver their plans.
Key public services
Those required to run the justice system, religious staff, as well as those responsible for managing the deceased and journalists providing public service broadcasting are on the list.
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Local and national government
The list "only includes administrative occupations essential to the effective delivery of the COVID-19 response or delivering essential public services", including payment of benefits.
Food and other necessary goods
Includes those involved in the production, processing, distribution, sale and delivery of food.
Public safety and national security
Police, support staff, Ministry of Defence civilian staff and armed forces personnel are on the list, along with fire and rescue staff, as well as those responsible for border security, prison and probation staff.
Transport
Includes those who will keep "air, water, road and rail passenger and freight transport modes operating during the COVID-19 response".
Utilities, communication and financial services
Staff required to keep oil, gas, electricity, water and sewerage operations running are on the list, along with those in the civil nuclear, chemical and telecommunications sectors. Those in postal services and working to provide essential financial services provision are also included.
Image: Police staff are also included
The parents of vulnerable children are the other group of people allowed to continue sending their children to school.
The government says this group will include those who have a social worker and those with Education, Health and Care Plans - a legal document that describes a child's special educational needs and the support they require.
Many schools in England will shut their gates on Friday until further notice, as will nurseries, colleges and childminders.
In Scotland and Wales, all schools will have closed by Friday, and schools in Northern Ireland are due to shut from Monday.
Special schools are to remain open during the closures, while educational settings will continue to cater for vulnerable children and pupils whose parents are key workers.
The "key workers" list was expected to be published on Thursday but was delayed until Friday morning - prompting criticism.
The Early Years Alliance acknowledged it comes during "incredibly challenging times", but said that a delay in establishing who would be able to access childcare from Monday would make an "already difficult task near-impossible".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Chief executive Neil Leitch said: "Providers need to know how many children may be accessing places at their settings to be able to make any kind of plan to continue delivering childcare next week."
Saying there could be "no more delays", he added: "The government has long warned that school and childcare closures could form part of their coronavirus action plans, so we are baffled as to why it is not better prepared for this situation."
The NASUWT teachers' union's acting general secretary Chris Keates said: "Schools have been plunged into chaos and confusion as they try to answer such basic questions as who are the key workers, how do we identify their children, what evidence is it reasonable to request from parents and what happens if other children turn up for school.
"Teachers are unclear whether they should be in work or out or what they will be expected to do if they are in work."


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: I, Daniel Blake actor Dave Johns told to claim Jobseeker's Allowance

I , Daniel Blake star Dave Johns says he 's been told to sign on at the Jobcentre after having his work cancelled due to coronavirus .
The 64-year-old actor and comedian rose to prominence in Ken Loach 's 2016 film about a Geordie carpenter who , after suffering a heart attack , is left unemployed .
His character is forced to navigate the UK 's employment support allowance system as he fights to keep his welfare benefits , despite not being able to work .
The irony was n't lost on Johns , who gave what he called a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He wrote : `` # work cancelled .
I 've just been told to claim employment and support allowance , this is going to be a laugh when I walk into the job Center '' .
He promised his 7,800 followers `` I 'll send photos '' , along with the message : `` Because of coronavirus all work cancelled life Imitating art !
!
! ''
.
One Twitter-user joked : `` At least you already know your lines '' .
Referring to the recent suspension of all Jobcentre appointments for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` They 're shut mate .
Online wo n't have the same effect I 'm afraid '' .
In another message on Facebook , Johns asked : `` Shall I bring the BAFTA , No ?
... too much ! ''
Loach 's gritty drama won a BAFTA and nabbed the director his second Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival .
It 's not known what role Johns was currently working on , but he was due to premiere a new stand up show at this year 's Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blake , Johns starred in 2019 choir drama Fisherman 's Friends and will appear in Blithe Spirit alongside Dame Judi Dench - which was due to be out later this year .
Johns is n't the only actor to be struggling .
Many creatives across the entertainment industry - including directors , editors , make-up artists and stage managers - have had work cancelled as COVID-19 puts a stop to gatherings and travel .
The freelance nature of many of the roles makes the industry particularly vulnerable to the pandemic , which has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ territories .
Creative industry bodies including Bectu and Directors UK have asked the Department for Work and Pensions to provide proportional income support to freelance workers .
Meanwhile , the Creative Industries Federation have called the government 's social distancing measures - which are advisory rather than an outright ban - `` a crippling blow to the UK 's creative industries '' .

I, Daniel Blake star Dave Johns says he's been told to sign on at the Jobcentre after having his work cancelled due to coronavirus.
The 64-year-old actor and comedian rose to prominence in Ken Loach's 2016 film about a Geordie carpenter who, after suffering a heart attack, is left unemployed.
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His character is forced to navigate the UK's employment support allowance system as he fights to keep his welfare benefits, despite not being able to work.
The irony wasn't lost on Johns, who gave what he called a "Corona Virus Update" on Twitter.
He wrote: "#work cancelled. I've just been told to claim employment and support allowance, this is going to be a laugh when I walk into the job Center".
Image: Johns stars alongside Hayley Squires, who plays a young woman also signing on
He promised his 7,800 followers "I'll send photos", along with the message: "Because of coronavirus all work cancelled life Imitating art!!!".
One Twitter-user joked: "At least you already know your lines".
:: Listen to Backstage on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Referring to the recent suspension of all Jobcentre appointments for three months, another fan wrote: "They're shut mate. Online won't have the same effect I'm afraid".
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In another message on Facebook, Johns asked: "Shall I bring the BAFTA, No?... too much!"
Loach's gritty drama won a BAFTA and nabbed the director his second Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival.
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It's not known what role Johns was currently working on, but he was due to premiere a new stand up show at this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.
Since appearing in I, Daniel Blake, Johns starred in 2019 choir drama Fisherman's Friends and will appear in Blithe Spirit alongside Dame Judi Dench - which was due to be out later this year.
Johns isn't the only actor to be struggling.
Many creatives across the entertainment industry - including directors, editors, make-up artists and stage managers - have had work cancelled as COVID-19 puts a stop to gatherings and travel.
:: Listen to Backstage on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The freelance nature of many of the roles makes the industry particularly vulnerable to the pandemic, which has spread to at least 169 countries and territories.
Creative industry bodies including Bectu and Directors UK have asked the Department for Work and Pensions to provide proportional income support to freelance workers.
Meanwhile, the Creative Industries Federation have called the government's social distancing measures - which are advisory rather than an outright ban - "a crippling blow to the UK's creative industries".


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: 'Everyone dies alone': Heartbreak at Italian hospital on brink of collapse

The mortuary assistant beckoned for us to follow him .
We passed room after room full of coffins .
At the end of a corridor he opened a door and gestured that we go inside what I could see was a church .
I did n't understand , but as we turned the corner we were confronted by more rows of coffins .
There are so many dead at the Cremona Hospital in Lombardy that they have to use the church to store the bodies before they are picked up and taken away to be cremated .
Their families have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respects or say goodbye .
They ca n't because they are in lockdown quarantine .
It 's a recurring theme now , everyone dies alone .
Time and again doctors and nurses hold back tears as they describe the anguish they feel for their patients who are dreadfully scared and lonely in their last hours .
The only care and kindness comes from the medical staff - strangers who are trying , but often failing , to save them .
It is genuinely heartbreaking covering this story and it 's made worse knowing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They could die alone and there is nothing I or anyone could do .
The dead in the church all came from the intensive care unit ( ICU ) at the hospital which is on the brink of collapse .
This is what it is like when the virus overwhelms , and here in Lombardy it is overwhelming .
Dressed in protective clothes , masks and gloves we were led through deserted , eerily quiet corridors to a set of locked double doors .
Our guide , the hospital 's health manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke into an intercom .
The door opened and a nurse dressed head to toe in protective clothing with a plastic full-face visor over a mask opened the door and let us inside .
Rooms on both sides of a corridor stretched into the distance .
As we walked on we passed the ICU wards .
All had multiple beds all filled with motionless people connected to tubes , drips and breathing equipment .
The only noise was the sound of the pumps and pinging heart monitors .
These patients are critically ill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make it out of here alive .
That is the stark reality facing everyone now .
The staff have no cure available to them .
They are just trying to keep their patients alive .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In one ward , five doctors and nurses worked in unison to turn a patient onto her front .
She was utterly motionless .
They turn the patients every 13 to 16 hours to relieve the pressure on their lungs .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ without their constant attention .
The patients are highly contagious .
Where possible they are observed from a distance .
But most of the time it is n't possible .
None of the staff take any risks .
They wash and sanitise constantly .
Gloves , masks , and protective clothes and outer-layers are regularly changed .
In truth , the men and women working in the ICU are exhausted .
The system is at breaking point and they are as well .
But they keep going .
They are n't the front @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the only line .
`` I ca n't say how I feel now , because it 's a war , it 's a disaster , '' Dr Leonor Tamayo told me .
`` It 's very dangerous , it 's a disaster , it 's a tsunami , and we are here 12 hours a day .
Only we are going home for a few hours and come back here for the work because we are here for the patients , '' she said - on the verge of tears .
The first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news for the teams here was the news that one of their patients is recovering .
We could n't approach him , he is still too weak but he gave us a wave .
After two weeks he is getting better .
However , in that two weeks not one other person on this ward has improved and many have died .
One frightening development here is that the age of the victims is getting younger - much younger .
One man they treated was 36 .
The doctors are n't sure why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not critical are sent home and there they get worse and return to hospital in a far more vulnerable state .
The only illnesses being treated in Cremona hospital are linked to COVID-19 and it is spreading .
Dr Emanuela Catenacci showed me around her section of the ICU .
She is normally a neurosurgeon but is now working in intensive care .
She asked me if she could send a message to the outside world .
In a word it was `` lockdown '' .
`` Try to stop , try to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in everything because otherwise the situation is , like , a tsunami , is a tsunami , when it starts to grow it 's really… it explodes , '' she told me .
`` Do n't think that it is happening here and [ think ] it ca n't happen everywhere else - because it will if you do n't do anything to stop it . ''
In Lombardy they have n't run out of hope but they are struggling with pretty much everything else .
They are waiting for the epidemic to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it could be much longer .

The mortuary assistant beckoned for us to follow him.
We passed room after room full of coffins. At the end of a corridor he opened a door and gestured that we go inside what I could see was a church.
I didn't understand, but as we turned the corner we were confronted by more rows of coffins.
There are so many dead at the Cremona Hospital in Lombardy that they have to use the church to store the bodies before they are picked up and taken away to be cremated.
Image: A church is storing bodies because so many people are dying
Their families haven't been able to pay their last respects or say goodbye. They can't because they are in lockdown quarantine.
It's a recurring theme now, everyone dies alone.
Time and again doctors and nurses hold back tears as they describe the anguish they feel for their patients who are dreadfully scared and lonely in their last hours.
The only care and kindness comes from the medical staff - strangers who are trying, but often failing, to save them.
It is genuinely heartbreaking covering this story and it's made worse knowing that our own families are vulnerable too. They could die alone and there is nothing I or anyone could do.
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The dead in the church all came from the intensive care unit (ICU) at the hospital which is on the brink of collapse. This is what it is like when the virus overwhelms, and here in Lombardy it is overwhelming.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:13 Inside the worst-hit Italian hospital
Dressed in protective clothes, masks and gloves we were led through deserted, eerily quiet corridors to a set of locked double doors.
Our guide, the hospital's health manager Rosario Canino, pressed a buzzer and spoke into an intercom.
The door opened and a nurse dressed head to toe in protective clothing with a plastic full-face visor over a mask opened the door and let us inside.
Rooms on both sides of a corridor stretched into the distance.
As we walked on we passed the ICU wards. All had multiple beds all filled with motionless people connected to tubes, drips and breathing equipment.
The only noise was the sound of the pumps and pinging heart monitors.
These patients are critically ill. In all probability they will never make it out of here alive. That is the stark reality facing everyone now.
The staff have no cure available to them. They are just trying to keep their patients alive.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In one ward, five doctors and nurses worked in unison to turn a patient onto her front. She was utterly motionless. They turn the patients every 13 to 16 hours to relieve the pressure on their lungs.
Without doubt, this woman would die without their constant attention.
The patients are highly contagious. Where possible they are observed from a distance. But most of the time it isn't possible.
None of the staff take any risks. They wash and sanitise constantly. Gloves, masks, and protective clothes and outer-layers are regularly changed.
Image: 'I can't say how I feel now, because it's a war, it's a disaster,' says Dr Tamayo
In truth, the men and women working in the ICU are exhausted.
The system is at breaking point and they are as well. But they keep going. They aren't the front line in this war, they are the only line.
"I can't say how I feel now, because it's a war, it's a disaster," Dr Leonor Tamayo told me.
"It's very dangerous, it's a disaster, it's a tsunami, and we are here 12 hours a day. Only we are going home for a few hours and come back here for the work because we are here for the patients," she said - on the verge of tears.
The first, perhaps only, bit of good news for the teams here was the news that one of their patients is recovering. We couldn't approach him, he is still too weak but he gave us a wave.
Image: One recovering patient gave a wave
After two weeks he is getting better. However, in that two weeks not one other person on this ward has improved and many have died.
One frightening development here is that the age of the victims is getting younger - much younger. One man they treated was 36.
The doctors aren't sure why, but believe that people who are not critical are sent home and there they get worse and return to hospital in a far more vulnerable state.
The only illnesses being treated in Cremona hospital are linked to COVID-19 and it is spreading.
Dr Emanuela Catenacci showed me around her section of the ICU.
She is normally a neurosurgeon but is now working in intensive care. She asked me if she could send a message to the outside world. In a word it was "lockdown".
"Try to stop, try to stop - isolate people, stop contact in everything because otherwise the situation is, like, a tsunami, is a tsunami, when it starts to grow it's really… it explodes," she told me.
Image: Dr Catenacci warned other countries that the number of patients becomes a 'tsunami'
"Don't think that it is happening here and [think] it can't happen everywhere else - because it will if you don't do anything to stop it."
In Lombardy they haven't run out of hope but they are struggling with pretty much everything else.
They are waiting for the epidemic to peak. But it could be weeks, it could be much longer.


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: 'Uncertain and surreal' - Emotions high as schools close over outbreak

They 'd been hoping for good grades ; not expecting goodbyes .
But for Year 13 students at Tytherington Secondary School in Macclesfield , today was , in all likelihood , their last day as pupils here .
There were some laughs , as pupils signed their names and goodbye messages on each others ' shirts .
But there were also tears , from pupils and staff .
The word `` uncertain '' was said , a lot .
`` Surreal ' , was another one .
George , 17 , told me , `` It 's been a really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know what 's going to happen next . ''
`` None of us were prepared , '' Emily , 18 , said , `` It feels unfair it 's been cut short . ''
Social distancing was forgotten , for a moment , as students hugged goodbye - for how long , no-one here knows .
The school normally has around 1,200 students .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker From Monday , it 'll have around 120 - the children of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from other schools , that have closed , who fit these categories .
One Year 13 pupil told me her parents were teachers too .
`` What does this all mean for us as a family ?
What does it mean for me , about University ? ''
she said , visibly worried .
Teachers did their best to make the day as special , and as normal , a farewell as possible .
Staff had , overnight , organised the traditional `` Leavers Assemblies '' , where staff made speeches and showed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the school .
But even the headteacher , Emmanuel Botwe , could n't hold back the tears .
In mid-address to a group of Year 11 , his voice cracked .
`` It 's a really uncertain time , '' he told them , `` but what is certain is that you 're a great year-group . ''
`` I 'll see you soon , '' he promised them .
The school says it will do its best to keep in touch with pupils remotely , offering virtual support where it can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's not so much the next few days that she 's worried about - it 's the weeks , and months to come .
`` For some of the children , I do n't think it 's really sunk in , '' she said , `` but after the weekend I think it 's suddenly going to dawn on them . ''
`` That everything has changed '' .

They'd been hoping for good grades; not expecting goodbyes.
But for Year 13 students at Tytherington Secondary School in Macclesfield, today was, in all likelihood, their last day as pupils here.
There were some laughs, as pupils signed their names and goodbye messages on each others' shirts.
Image: Classrooms will not see any teaching for some time
But there were also tears, from pupils and staff.
The word "uncertain" was said, a lot.
"Surreal', was another one.
George, 17, told me, "It's been a really emotional time. We just don't know what's going to happen next."
"None of us were prepared," Emily, 18, said, "It feels unfair it's been cut short."
Social distancing was forgotten, for a moment, as students hugged goodbye - for how long, no-one here knows.
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The school normally has around 1,200 students.
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From Monday, it'll have around 120 - the children of key workers, the vulnerable and children from other schools, that have closed, who fit these categories.
One Year 13 pupil told me her parents were teachers too.
"What does this all mean for us as a family? What does it mean for me, about University?" she said, visibly worried.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 School's out for most students
Teachers did their best to make the day as special, and as normal, a farewell as possible.
Staff had, overnight, organised the traditional "Leavers Assemblies", where staff made speeches and showed photo highlights of the pupils' time at the school.
Image: The school held a leavers assembly on Friday
But even the headteacher, Emmanuel Botwe, couldn't hold back the tears.
In mid-address to a group of Year 11, his voice cracked.
"It's a really uncertain time," he told them, "but what is certain is that you're a great year-group."
"I'll see you soon," he promised them.
The school says it will do its best to keep in touch with pupils remotely, offering virtual support where it can.
But one teacher told me it's not so much the next few days that she's worried about - it's the weeks, and months to come.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 Schools shutdown creates exam uncertainty
"For some of the children, I don't think it's really sunk in," she said, "but after the weekend I think it's suddenly going to dawn on them."
"That everything has changed".


news--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: YouTube and Netflix to reduce streaming quality to stop internet from breaking

YouTube and Netflix have said they will reduce the streaming quality of videos to avoid straining the internet due to the unprecedented usage during the coronavirus pandemic .
Millions of people are working from home across the European Union in order to tackle the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak , which is now confirmed to have infected more than 244,000 people worldwide .
`` Streaming platforms , telecom operators and users ... have a joint responsibility to take steps to ensure the smooth functioning of the internet during the battle against the virus propagation , '' the EU 's markets and services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In a statement , YouTube said it was complying with the commissioner 's request for a month : `` We are making a commitment to temporarily switch all traffic in the EU to standard definition by default . ''
A spokesperson for Netflix said the company was also acknowledging Mr Breton 's concerns .
`` We estimate that this will reduce Netflix traffic on European networks by around 25 % while also ensuring a good quality service for our members , '' they added .
Despite Mr Breton 's request , internet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in peak traffic - although peak times , normally between six and nine in the evening , are beginning much earlier .
None have also expressed concern about the capacities of their networks being maxed out .
Although video streaming makes up a large proportion of all data usage on the internet , technical advances have reduced how expensive it is for networks to send this data to users .

YouTube and Netflix have said they will reduce the streaming quality of videos to avoid straining the internet due to the unprecedented usage during the coronavirus pandemic.
Millions of people are working from home across the European Union in order to tackle the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, which is now confirmed to have infected more than 244,000 people worldwide.
"Streaming platforms, telecom operators and users... have a joint responsibility to take steps to ensure the smooth functioning of the internet during the battle against the virus propagation," the EU's markets and services commissioner, Thierry Breton, said yesterday.
In a statement, YouTube said it was complying with the commissioner's request for a month: "We are making a commitment to temporarily switch all traffic in the EU to standard definition by default."
A spokesperson for Netflix said the company was also acknowledging Mr Breton's concerns.
"We estimate that this will reduce Netflix traffic on European networks by around 25% while also ensuring a good quality service for our members," they added.
Despite Mr Breton's request, internet service providers have not reported a sharp increase in peak traffic - although peak times, normally between six and nine in the evening, are beginning much earlier.
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None have also expressed concern about the capacities of their networks being maxed out.
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Although video streaming makes up a large proportion of all data usage on the internet, technical advances have reduced how expensive it is for networks to send this data to users.


news--2020-04-07--Coronavirus: Facebook to produce 'heat maps' of COVID-19 infections

Facebook will ask users whether they have been infected with the coronavirus as part of a project to generate `` heat maps '' of the outbreak .
Initially focused on the social media giant 's users in the US , the survey is part of a coronavirus research project from Carnegie Mellon University to analyse the spread of COVID-19 .
A link to the survey will be displayed at the top of users ' news feeds , and the results should allow them to predict where medical resources are needed .
Facebook said if the project is successful then it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
It said that it would n't share identifying information about its users with the university , and that the researchers would n't share individual survey responses with the company .
: :Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Facebook added that it would begin making new categories of data available to scientists who specialise in studying epidemics through a new programme called Disease Prevention Maps , which is sharing aggregated location data with partners in 40 countries .
Other technology companies are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showing the spread of the virus .
The British government has asked mobile phone network O2 to share anonymous smartphone location data so it can generate heat maps to see whether people are following its social distancing guidelines , as Sky News revealed .
Sky News also revealed that the controversial spyware company NSO Group is pitching software to Western governments which would allow them to use location data to trace whom infected persons may have been in contact with .

Facebook will ask users whether they have been infected with the coronavirus as part of a project to generate "heat maps" of the outbreak.
Initially focused on the social media giant's users in the US, the survey is part of a coronavirus research project from Carnegie Mellon University to analyse the spread of COVID-19.
A link to the survey will be displayed at the top of users' news feeds, and the results should allow them to predict where medical resources are needed.
Facebook said if the project is successful then it could introduce the surveys in other countries too.
It said that it wouldn't share identifying information about its users with the university, and that the researchers wouldn't share individual survey responses with the company.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Facebook added that it would begin making new categories of data available to scientists who specialise in studying epidemics through a new programme called Disease Prevention Maps, which is sharing aggregated location data with partners in 40 countries.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:01 Coronvirus: New York faces defining week
Other technology companies are also vying to produce heat maps for governments showing the spread of the virus.
The British government has asked mobile phone network O2 to share anonymous smartphone location data so it can generate heat maps to see whether people are following its social distancing guidelines, as Sky News revealed.
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Sky News also revealed that the controversial spyware company NSO Group is pitching software to Western governments which would allow them to use location data to trace whom infected persons may have been in contact with.


news--2020-04-07--Coronavirus: Mother of teenage quadruplets dies with COVID-19

A mother of five who was a respected councillor has died after contracting coronavirus while on a trip to Pakistan .
Shabnum Sadiq , who served on Slough Borough Council , died after suffering `` complications '' from COVID-19 on 6 April .
The 39-year-old leaves behind her husband and five children , including 13-year-old quadruplets .
Mrs Sadiq 's brother , who lives in the UK , told Sky News she visited Pakistan in the first week of March for a relative 's wedding with her husband Khizwan .
He added that Mrs Sadiq became ill just days after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a hospital in the capital Islamabad on 12 March .
She was on a ventilator for 24 days after doctors revealed she had COVID-19 .
Mrs Sadiq suffered a cardiac arrest in the hospital and her husband is now stranded in Pakistan and ca n't get a flight back as they are being cancelled .
Her grieving brother described his sister a `` very hard-working woman '' who was a big fan of boxing .
He told Sky News : `` I had no clue my little sister would n't come back from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so much love for her , so many people have been getting in touch and telling us about the amazing work she did as a councillor in her constituency . ''
A Slough Council spokesman has said it is flying flags at half-mast at its offices in tribute .
Mrs Sadiq was elected to Wexham Lea ward in May 2016 and served on various council committees .
She was a former lead member for education and children 's services .
Council leader James Swindlehurst said : `` This is very shocking for all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her family and friends .
`` Shabnum was a dedicated councillor and despite only being in her first term , she had made a contribution far beyond the years she 'd spent in the council chamber .
`` We worked together closely and personally I will miss her very deeply .
`` This is a significant loss for the council and the town , but is nothing compared to the loss her family , close friends and community are feeling right now .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' This has brought home to us that not only is this virus something we have to deal with as a town , but also personally , through our work , through our actions and through our grief for those it has taken .
`` Behind every statistic about this virus is a family ripped apart and there is no starker example of that , to us in the council , than to lose one of our colleagues .
`` May she rest in peace and her family find comfort in the love @ @ @ @ @ @ @

A mother of five who was a respected councillor has died after contracting coronavirus while on a trip to Pakistan.
Shabnum Sadiq, who served on Slough Borough Council, died after suffering "complications" from COVID-19 on 6 April.
The 39-year-old leaves behind her husband and five children, including 13-year-old quadruplets.
Mrs Sadiq's brother, who lives in the UK, told Sky News she visited Pakistan in the first week of March for a relative's wedding with her husband Khizwan.
He added that Mrs Sadiq became ill just days after being there, and was admitted to a hospital in the capital Islamabad on 12 March.
Image: Mrs Sadiq, a boxing fan, is seen with her 13-year-old son Zyaan
Image: Shabnum Sadiq leaves behind five children
She was on a ventilator for 24 days after doctors revealed she had COVID-19.
Mrs Sadiq suffered a cardiac arrest in the hospital and her husband is now stranded in Pakistan and can't get a flight back as they are being cancelled.
Her grieving brother described his sister a "very hard-working woman" who was a big fan of boxing.
He told Sky News: "I had no clue my little sister wouldn't come back from this trip.
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"There's been so much love for her, so many people have been getting in touch and telling us about the amazing work she did as a councillor in her constituency."
Image: Mrs Sadiq contracted coronavirus while on a trip to Pakistan
Image: Mrs Sadiq is pictured with champion boxer Hamzah Sheeraz
A Slough Council spokesman has said it is flying flags at half-mast at its offices in tribute.
Mrs Sadiq was elected to Wexham Lea ward in May 2016 and served on various council committees.
She was a former lead member for education and children's services.
Council leader James Swindlehurst said: "This is very shocking for all of us and our thoughts are with her family and friends.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:14 'PM is a fighter - I'm confident he'll pull through'
"Shabnum was a dedicated councillor and despite only being in her first term, she had made a contribution far beyond the years she'd spent in the council chamber.
"We worked together closely and personally I will miss her very deeply.
"This is a significant loss for the council and the town, but is nothing compared to the loss her family, close friends and community are feeling right now.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"This has brought home to us that not only is this virus something we have to deal with as a town, but also personally, through our work, through our actions and through our grief for those it has taken.
"Behind every statistic about this virus is a family ripped apart and there is no starker example of that, to us in the council, than to lose one of our colleagues.
"May she rest in peace and her family find comfort in the love she had for them all."


news--2020-04-07--New Labour leader Starmer 'has already done more to tackle antisemitism', Jewish leaders claim

New Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has `` achieved in four days more than his predecessor in four years '' with his attempts to tackle antisemitism in the party , Jewish leaders have said .
Sir Keir , who was confirmed as Jeremy Corbyn 's successor on Saturday , spoke to Jewish leaders on Skype , along with deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner .
He asked for all outstanding cases of antisemitism to be `` on my desk at the end of the week '' .
Sir Keir apologised for Labour 's failure to tackle the issue , calling it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to set up an independent complaints process .
The Board of Deputies president Marie van der Zyl , Jewish Leadership Council chairman Jonathan Goldstein , Community Security Trust chairman Gerald Ronson and Jewish Labour Movement chairman Mike Katz released a joint statement following the call .
They said : `` While we would have fully understood the need to focus entirely on coronavirus at this time , Keir Starmer has already achieved in four days more than his predecessor in four years in addressing antisemitism within the Labour Party .
`` As we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to have a normal relationship with Labour whereby we can discuss the full range of issues affecting our community , from religious freedom to Israel , from Jewish schools to poverty , from refugees to the environment - and not just antisemitism .
`` This has certainly been a good start .
`` If the new Labour leadership continues in this way , we can work together to make the changes that will make Labour a proudly anti-racist party once again . ''
Others participants in the call included the Board of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Gillian Merron and Phil Rosenberg respectively , JLC chief executive Simon Johnson , CST chief executive David Delew and Peter Mason , national secretary of JLM .
Sir Keir thanked the representatives for meeting with him `` not least so close to Passover '' .
`` It was very important to me to seek to address the disgrace of anti-Semitism in our party as soon as possible , '' he said .
`` Today , I repeated once again the apology I made as soon as I was elected leader .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have failed the Jewish community on anti-Semitism .
`` Labour is a proudly anti-racist party and , going forward , it will not be enough to 'pass the test ' on anti-Semitism .
We need to set new standards for best practice .
`` At today 's meeting , I committed to begin work on setting up an independent complaints process , co-operating fully with the EHRC 's inquiry and asking for a report on all outstanding cases to be on my desk at ( the end of ) the week .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Movement my ambition to roll out training of all Labour Party staff as soon as practically possible . ''
In a video message released after his victory was confirmed at the weekend , Sir Keir apologised to the Jewish community for the `` grief '' caused by antisemitism in the party and promised to `` tear out this poison by its roots '' .
It was one of the dominant issues of Mr Corbyn 's four-and-a-half years as Labour leader .
There were accusations - strenuously denied by Mr Corbyn - that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to tackle the problem .
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is currently conducting an inquiry into Labour 's handling of the crisis .
Sir Keir has also offered to work `` constructively '' with the government amid the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` People are clearly anxious .
I know the business of government will continue , '' he said .
`` I was in touch with the foreign secretary last night , and I want to say that the Labour Party will act in the national interest .
`` That 's why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government and support them where that 's the right thing to do , and push them further where we need to do it . ''
In addition , the Labour leader has finalised his top team .
Notable appointments include Lisa Nandy as shadow foreign secretary , Anneliese Dodds as shadow chancellor , and a return to the Labour frontbench for Ed Miliband .

New Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has "achieved in four days more than his predecessor in four years" with his attempts to tackle antisemitism in the party, Jewish leaders have said.
Sir Keir, who was confirmed as Jeremy Corbyn's successor on Saturday, spoke to Jewish leaders on Skype, along with deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner.
He asked for all outstanding cases of antisemitism to be "on my desk at the end of the week".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:59 New Labour leader: The challenges ahead
Sir Keir apologised for Labour's failure to tackle the issue, calling it a "disgrace", and promised to set up an independent complaints process.
The Board of Deputies president Marie van der Zyl, Jewish Leadership Council chairman Jonathan Goldstein, Community Security Trust chairman Gerald Ronson and Jewish Labour Movement chairman Mike Katz released a joint statement following the call.
They said: "While we would have fully understood the need to focus entirely on coronavirus at this time, Keir Starmer has already achieved in four days more than his predecessor in four years in addressing antisemitism within the Labour Party.
"As we discussed with Keir and Angela, we want to have a normal relationship with Labour whereby we can discuss the full range of issues affecting our community, from religious freedom to Israel, from Jewish schools to poverty, from refugees to the environment - and not just antisemitism.
"This has certainly been a good start.
"If the new Labour leadership continues in this way, we can work together to make the changes that will make Labour a proudly anti-racist party once again."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:25 Sir Keir: I will build an effective opposition
Others participants in the call included the Board of Deputies chief executive and public affairs director, Gillian Merron and Phil Rosenberg respectively, JLC chief executive Simon Johnson, CST chief executive David Delew and Peter Mason, national secretary of JLM.
Sir Keir thanked the representatives for meeting with him "not least so close to Passover".
"It was very important to me to seek to address the disgrace of anti-Semitism in our party as soon as possible," he said.
"Today, I repeated once again the apology I made as soon as I was elected leader.
"Over the last few years, we have failed the Jewish community on anti-Semitism.
"Labour is a proudly anti-racist party and, going forward, it will not be enough to 'pass the test' on anti-Semitism. We need to set new standards for best practice.
"At today's meeting, I committed to begin work on setting up an independent complaints process, co-operating fully with the EHRC's inquiry and asking for a report on all outstanding cases to be on my desk at (the end of) the week.
"I also discussed with the Jewish Labour Movement my ambition to roll out training of all Labour Party staff as soon as practically possible."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 Starmer pledges to work 'constructively' with government
In a video message released after his victory was confirmed at the weekend, Sir Keir apologised to the Jewish community for the "grief" caused by antisemitism in the party and promised to "tear out this poison by its roots".
It was one of the dominant issues of Mr Corbyn's four-and-a-half years as Labour leader.
There were accusations - strenuously denied by Mr Corbyn - that the party's leadership did not do enough to tackle the problem.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is currently conducting an inquiry into Labour's handling of the crisis.
Sir Keir has also offered to work "constructively" with the government amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
"People are clearly anxious. I know the business of government will continue," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:46 Ed Miliband makes Starmer's shadow cabinet
"I was in touch with the foreign secretary last night, and I want to say that the Labour Party will act in the national interest.
"That's why I have offered to act constructively with the government and support them where that's the right thing to do, and push them further where we need to do it."
In addition, the Labour leader has finalised his top team.
Notable appointments include Lisa Nandy as shadow foreign secretary, Anneliese Dodds as shadow chancellor, and a return to the Labour frontbench for Ed Miliband.