news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: Britain will be 'virtually back to normal' by August, says ex-WHO expert

Britain could be out of lockdown and `` virtually back to normal '' by August , according to a former World Health Organisation expert .
Professor Karol Sikora , who was director of the body 's cancer programme from 1997 until 1999 , has been a regular commentator on the coronavirus pandemic on Twitter .
He tweeted on Wednesday : `` Some laughed at my prediction at the end of March that we would start edging back to normality around the second week in May - it was right !
`` I think by August things will be virtually back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should still prepare for the worst , but hope for the best ! ''
The oncologist , who holds a PhD in immunology , also told The Sun that other European countries with devastatingly high death tolls - such as Italy - had led the way with easing coronavirus restrictions .
He said March and April `` were awful , May is better '' , and was `` hopeful that in June things will improve significantly '' .
`` I 've always been hopeful that by the summer our situation would have dramatically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sikora 's tweet regarding his earlier predictions divided opinion , with some users commenting that it was insensitive to brag given the tens of thousands of lives lost .
`` About 60,000 dead and you are concerned that you predicted non-essential shops would open in June , '' one said .
More than 37,400 people have died after testing positive for COVID-19 in the UK , across all settings .
After 10 weeks of lockdown , thousands of high street shops , department stores and markets across England can start reopening from next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ briefing in Downing Street , which was overshadowed by Dominic Cummings 's response to allegations he broke lockdown rules , Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined which businesses could begin trading again from Monday , 1 June , under the second step of his plan to `` unlock the lockdown '' .
Outdoor markets and car showrooms will be allowed to reopen , while all other non-essential retailers - including shops selling clothes and indoor markets - can follow suit two weeks later .
Among the businesses to remain closed include hairdressers , nail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sector firms including cinemas and pubs , where the government says the risk of transmission is higher .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Johnson also announced he will press ahead with the planned reopening of schools from 1 June , initially encompassing pupils in reception , year one and year six .
However , it may not be possible for all schools to start classes again then .
The schools minister has said he expects most pupils to continue learning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ @

Britain could be out of lockdown and "virtually back to normal" by August, according to a former World Health Organisation expert.
Professor Karol Sikora, who was director of the body's cancer programme from 1997 until 1999, has been a regular commentator on the coronavirus pandemic on Twitter.
He tweeted on Wednesday: "Some laughed at my prediction at the end of March that we would start edging back to normality around the second week in May - it was right!
"I think by August things will be virtually back to normal, perhaps sooner. We should still prepare for the worst, but hope for the best!"
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
The oncologist, who holds a PhD in immunology, also told The Sun that other European countries with devastatingly high death tolls - such as Italy - had led the way with easing coronavirus restrictions.
He said March and April "were awful, May is better", and was "hopeful that in June things will improve significantly".
"I've always been hopeful that by the summer our situation would have dramatically improved," he added.
Professor Sikora's tweet regarding his earlier predictions divided opinion, with some users commenting that it was insensitive to brag given the tens of thousands of lives lost.
"About 60,000 dead and you are concerned that you predicted non-essential shops would open in June," one said.
Advertisement
More than 37,400 people have died after testing positive for COVID-19 in the UK, across all settings.
Image: Hairdressers, barbers and salons will stay closed, along with the hospitality industry
After 10 weeks of lockdown, thousands of high street shops, department stores and markets across England can start reopening from next month.
At Monday's daily news briefing in Downing Street, which was overshadowed by Dominic Cummings's response to allegations he broke lockdown rules, Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined which businesses could begin trading again from Monday, 1 June, under the second step of his plan to "unlock the lockdown".
Outdoor markets and car showrooms will be allowed to reopen, while all other non-essential retailers - including shops selling clothes and indoor markets - can follow suit two weeks later.
Among the businesses to remain closed include hairdressers, nail bars, beauty salons, and hospitality sector firms including cinemas and pubs, where the government says the risk of transmission is higher.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Johnson also announced he will press ahead with the planned reopening of schools from 1 June, initially encompassing pupils in reception, year one and year six.
However, it may not be possible for all schools to start classes again then.
The schools minister has said he expects most pupils to continue learning from home until September.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: Home schooling to continue for most pupils until September, says minister

Most pupils should prepare to learn at home until the start of the autumn term , the schools minster has confirmed .
The government has announced that three primary school years - reception , year one and year six - will return from Monday , 1 June , prompting a battle with teaching unions .
The prime minister and the education secretary have made clear their ambition that all primary school pupils should return for a month of lessons before the summer .
But Nick Gibb shed a more doubtful note on the timetable , telling MPs on the Commons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say '' whether more children will return to school this term .
`` Remote education , home education , will continue for the majority of pupils and young people - probably until the end of the summer term '' , the schools minister said .
`` We do want young children to come back into school if the science indicates that it 's safe to do so .
It 's a balance .
`` We 're balancing the objective to return to school with the overwhelming objective of ensuring they are as safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school does not result in an increase in the R factor ( the reproduction number of the virus ) .
`` That 's why we are taking such a very cautious approach . ''
The phased return of the first three year groups - announced by the prime minister on Sunday at the height of the Dominic Cummings furore - is also yet to be confirmed , Mr Gibb said .
Asked by chair Robert Halfon , Tory MP for Harlow , why the government had presented it as a `` fait accompli @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed tomorrow when the Scientific Advisory Group ( SAGE ) releases its latest estimate of the R rate of COVID-19 in the UK .
The latest SAGE estimate last week kept the UK 's rate between 0.7 and 1 , the same as the previous week .
As to the return of more primary school pupils this term , Mr Gibb said : `` We do n't know until we see more evidence of the R factor continuing to reduce over the next few weeks . ''
He suggested that while the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next week , there may be a rota system for other young children due to lack of space in schools to implement social distancing .
Schools have received guidance from the Department for Education requiring them to reorganise their buildings to allow a maximum of 15 children per class .
Each class and their teacher will form a `` bubble '' that is kept separate from other children , and hand washing and classroom cleaning will be stepped up .
Mr Gibb was asked by Conservative MP Jonathan Gullis , a former teacher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election , what he could do to help parents `` regain confidence in the government 's message '' after the revelations about Mr Cummings .
Mr Gullis said the `` message has been undermined '' by Number 10 's senior adviser , adding that `` even if the law has n't been broken , the spirit of the law has been broken '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The schools minister replied that the phased reopening of schools was only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the social distancing measures and that `` the more we all adhere to the rules , the more we will be able to make further progress in reopening schools '' .
He acknowledged that there was `` a lot of anxiety '' about the reopening among parents but insisted that the decision to ask younger children back first was science-led .
`` Susceptibility to clinical disease is less for younger children than adults or older children '' , he told MPs .
Scientists are still unclear about how effectively children may spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ @

Most pupils should prepare to learn at home until the start of the autumn term, the schools minster has confirmed.
The government has announced that three primary school years - reception, year one and year six - will return from Monday, 1 June, prompting a battle with teaching unions.
The prime minister and the education secretary have made clear their ambition that all primary school pupils should return for a month of lessons before the summer.
Image: Education Minister Nick Gibb MP
But Nick Gibb shed a more doubtful note on the timetable, telling MPs on the Commons Education Committee it is "difficult to say" whether more children will return to school this term.
"Remote education, home education, will continue for the majority of pupils and young people - probably until the end of the summer term", the schools minister said.
"We do want young children to come back into school if the science indicates that it's safe to do so. It's a balance.
"We're balancing the objective to return to school with the overwhelming objective of ensuring they are as safe as possible and that returning children to school does not result in an increase in the R factor (the reproduction number of the virus).
"That's why we are taking such a very cautious approach."
The phased return of the first three year groups - announced by the prime minister on Sunday at the height of the Dominic Cummings furore - is also yet to be confirmed, Mr Gibb said.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:51 'Test, track and trace before reopening schools'
Asked by chair Robert Halfon, Tory MP for Harlow, why the government had presented it as a "fait accompli", he said it would be confirmed tomorrow when the Scientific Advisory Group (SAGE) releases its latest estimate of the R rate of COVID-19 in the UK.
The latest SAGE estimate last week kept the UK's rate between 0.7 and 1, the same as the previous week.
As to the return of more primary school pupils this term, Mr Gibb said: "We don't know until we see more evidence of the R factor continuing to reduce over the next few weeks."
He suggested that while the first primary school children will return full-time from next week, there may be a rota system for other young children due to lack of space in schools to implement social distancing.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:07 Children 'less likely to have serious symptoms'
Schools have received guidance from the Department for Education requiring them to reorganise their buildings to allow a maximum of 15 children per class.
Each class and their teacher will form a "bubble" that is kept separate from other children, and hand washing and classroom cleaning will be stepped up.
Mr Gibb was asked by Conservative MP Jonathan Gullis, a former teacher elected to Stoke-on-Trent North at the 2019 election, what he could do to help parents "regain confidence in the government's message" after the revelations about Mr Cummings.
Mr Gullis said the "message has been undermined" by Number 10's senior adviser, adding that "even if the law hasn't been broken, the spirit of the law has been broken".
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The schools minister replied that the phased reopening of schools was only possible due to the public's commitment to the social distancing measures and that "the more we all adhere to the rules, the more we will be able to make further progress in reopening schools".
He acknowledged that there was "a lot of anxiety" about the reopening among parents but insisted that the decision to ask younger children back first was science-led.
"Susceptibility to clinical disease is less for younger children than adults or older children", he told MPs.
Scientists are still unclear about how effectively children may spread the disease to adults.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: Premier League return inches closer as clubs vote to resume contact training

The Premier League has moved a step closer to restarting fixtures as coronavirus restrictions are eased , after clubs voted unanimously to resume contact training .
Players will now be asked to train as a group , with the move allowing them to tackle each other again `` while minimising any unnecessary close contact '' .
A statement issued by the league to mark the shift to stage two of its plan to resume training amid the COVID-19 pandemic said : `` The Premier League 's priority is the health and wellbeing of all participants .
`` Strict medical protocols @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ground is the safest environment possible and players and staff will continue to be tested for COVID-19 twice a week . ''
Clubs are working towards a return to fixtures on 19 June , with matches taking place behind closed doors .
The statement said discussions were `` ongoing as work continues towards resuming the season , when conditions allow '' .
The league was boosted in its efforts to resume action when just two of 996 players and club staff - from two different clubs - tested for coronavirus last week were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ began its extensive programme of testing , it has announced a total of eight positive results , including Watford defender Adrian Mariappa and Burnley assistant manager Ian Woan .
Clubs began the first phase of 'Project Restart ' last week after agreeing to a return to training in small groups under strict limitations and with no contact .
Phase two will allow up to 10 players to work together and eases the time restrictions on training sessions , allowing players to be closer .
No matches have been played in the Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a big step towards the completion of the 92 remaining fixtures .
The third phase would involve a shift to a more typical form of training in the build-up to actual games .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Watford striker Troy Deeney said last week he would not return immediately to training , citing fears around the health of his five-month-old son , who has breathing difficulties .
He also said he had questioned officials over extra protections for players who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heritage given evidence they could be at greater risk of developing severe symptoms of coronavirus .
`` For black , Asian and mixed ethnicities they are four times more likely to get the illness and we 're twice as likely to have long-lasting illnesses , '' he said .
`` Is there any additional screening ?
Heart stuff to see if people have got problems ?
No .
Okay , well I feel like that should be addressed . ''
The Premier League has said it will support a trophy presentation for whoever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do so .
That is likely to be Liverpool , who were 25 points clear at the top of the table when the season was halted and only need two more wins to clinch their first top-flight title in 30 years .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

The Premier League has moved a step closer to restarting fixtures as coronavirus restrictions are eased, after clubs voted unanimously to resume contact training.
Players will now be asked to train as a group, with the move allowing them to tackle each other again "while minimising any unnecessary close contact".
A statement issued by the league to mark the shift to stage two of its plan to resume training amid the COVID-19 pandemic said: "The Premier League's priority is the health and wellbeing of all participants.
"Strict medical protocols are in place to ensure the training ground is the safest environment possible and players and staff will continue to be tested for COVID-19 twice a week."
Clubs are working towards a return to fixtures on 19 June, with matches taking place behind closed doors.
The statement said discussions were "ongoing as work continues towards resuming the season, when conditions allow".
The league was boosted in its efforts to resume action when just two of 996 players and club staff - from two different clubs - tested for coronavirus last week were found to be infected.
Since it began its extensive programme of testing, it has announced a total of eight positive results, including Watford defender Adrian Mariappa and Burnley assistant manager Ian Woan.
Image: Manchester United celebrate a goal in a fixture shortly before the coronavirus lockdown saw the season suspended
Clubs began the first phase of 'Project Restart' last week after agreeing to a return to training in small groups under strict limitations and with no contact.
Advertisement
Phase two will allow up to 10 players to work together and eases the time restrictions on training sessions, allowing players to be closer.
No matches have been played in the Premier League since March but Wednesday's vote is a big step towards the completion of the 92 remaining fixtures.
The third phase would involve a shift to a more typical form of training in the build-up to actual games.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Watford striker Troy Deeney said last week he would not return immediately to training, citing fears around the health of his five-month-old son, who has breathing difficulties.
He also said he had questioned officials over extra protections for players who are black, Asian or of mixed heritage given evidence they could be at greater risk of developing severe symptoms of coronavirus.
"For black, Asian and mixed ethnicities they are four times more likely to get the illness and we're twice as likely to have long-lasting illnesses," he said.
"Is there any additional screening? Heart stuff to see if people have got problems? No. Okay, well I feel like that should be addressed."
The Premier League has said it will support a trophy presentation for whoever is crowned champions if it is safe to do so.
That is likely to be Liverpool, who were 25 points clear at the top of the table when the season was halted and only need two more wins to clinch their first top-flight title in 30 years.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: Lockdown increasing the gender wage gap as more women lose their jobs than men

Mothers who were in paid work before lockdown are 47 % more likely than fathers to have permanently lost their jobs or quit , new research suggests .
The Institute for Fiscal Studies ( IFS ) report also found women have taken on `` more housework and childcare than fathers '' during lockdown , even if they have the same working arrangements .
Mothers are also spending more of their working hours simultaneously trying to care for children compared to men according to the analysis .
Leila Gregory has an eight-year-old with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ) and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working and educating her children from home has been a `` struggle '' .
Mrs Gregory says : `` The beginning was completely manic because both myself and my husband work full time , so we were doing two full time jobs , schooling two kids , one of which has GCSEs and the other one who needs a lot of attention to keep him focused .
It 's almost impossible to lock yourself away to be honest with you , it 's one of those things where if you do go into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go 'mummy where have you gone ? '
and with video calls , he likes to pop his head in and say hello to everyone which is n't the norm ! ''
Mrs Gregory was put on the government 's furlough scheme during lockdown , and in the last week she has been made redundant .
She says : `` Just the way this is right now , it does n't seem to matter what industry you 're working in everyone is affected .
`` Working was a huge part of my life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five years and I absolutely loved it .
My kids are the centre of my universe , but [ work ] was my 'me ' time , somewhere where I could go and do what I do best . ''
The IFS study , of more than 3,500 households , found that mothers are 14 % more likely to have been furloughed than fathers during the current crisis .
Researchers warn that a dramatic reduction in the time mothers are spending dedicated to work could harm their careers and increased the gender wage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools across England are preparing to admit more children in Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 from next week .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Alison Andrew , a Senior Research Economist at IFS , says mothers experience `` more interruptions '' in the household than fathers .
Ms Andrew said : `` Mothers are more likely than fathers to have moved out of paid work since the start of lockdown .
`` They have reduced their working hours more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working and they experience more interruptions while they work from home than fathers , particularly due to caring for children .
`` Together these factors mean that mothers now are only doing a third of the uninterrupted paid-work hours that fathers are .
A risk is that the lockdown leads to a further increase in the gender wage gap . ''

Mothers who were in paid work before lockdown are 47% more likely than fathers to have permanently lost their jobs or quit, new research suggests.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) report also found women have taken on "more housework and childcare than fathers" during lockdown, even if they have the same working arrangements.
Mothers are also spending more of their working hours simultaneously trying to care for children compared to men according to the analysis.
Leila Gregory has an eight-year-old with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and a 15-year-old with autism.
She says working and educating her children from home has been a "struggle".
Mrs Gregory says: "The beginning was completely manic because both myself and my husband work full time, so we were doing two full time jobs, schooling two kids, one of which has GCSEs and the other one who needs a lot of attention to keep him focused.
It's almost impossible to lock yourself away to be honest with you, it's one of those things where if you do go into another room my eight-year-old is likely to go 'mummy where have you gone?' and with video calls, he likes to pop his head in and say hello to everyone which isn't the norm!"
Mrs Gregory was put on the government's furlough scheme during lockdown, and in the last week she has been made redundant. She says: "Just the way this is right now, it doesn't seem to matter what industry you're working in everyone is affected.
"Working was a huge part of my life, I went back to work after five years and I absolutely loved it. My kids are the centre of my universe, but [work] was my 'me' time, somewhere where I could go and do what I do best."
Advertisement
The IFS study, of more than 3,500 households, found that mothers are 14% more likely to have been furloughed than fathers during the current crisis.
Researchers warn that a dramatic reduction in the time mothers are spending dedicated to work could harm their careers and increased the gender wage gap.
The research comes as primary schools across England are preparing to admit more children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 from next week.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Alison Andrew, a Senior Research Economist at IFS, says mothers experience "more interruptions" in the household than fathers.
Ms Andrew said: "Mothers are more likely than fathers to have moved out of paid work since the start of lockdown.
"They have reduced their working hours more than fathers even if they are still working and they experience more interruptions while they work from home than fathers, particularly due to caring for children.
"Together these factors mean that mothers now are only doing a third of the uninterrupted paid-work hours that fathers are. A risk is that the lockdown leads to a further increase in the gender wage gap."


news--2020-05-26--Coronavirus: Could travel distance be factor in why more men may be in hospital with COVID-19?

Not staying at home as much as women could be a factor behind why more men have been treated in hospital or died from coronavirus , according to new findings .
During May , men moved 48 % further than women , data gathered by the Oxford COVID-19 Impact Monitor found .
The more a person is outside of their home , the more chance they have to come into contact with the virus .
This , along with other factors such as the prevalence of underlying health conditions , offers potential insight into why men in the UK may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The findings , which are based on anonymised , aggregated and GDPR-compliant location data from mobile phones , show that since the lockdown began on 23 March , men have largely travelled further from home than women .
The reasons why men moved more were not given but one option could be types of work .
Across every age group men have moved further than women in the same age bracket , and in some cases further than women in a younger age range .
Men in their mid-20s to early 30s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further than women of a similar age by 15 May .
Men in their 50s have moved 28 % further than women aged between 23 and 24 .
Men in their 60s also moved 39 % further than women of the same age .
Dr Adam Saunders , who co-leads the Oxford COVID-19 Impact Monitor inter-disciplinary project , said : `` To our knowledge , this is the first study which shows differences in population movement , not only between men and women , but also across age groups during the UK 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ men have tended to travel further from home - potentially coming into contact with the virus with greater frequency . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Dr Matthias Qian , co-leader of the project , said : `` The extent of differences in movement between men and women offers potential insight into why , in addition to the prevalence of underlying health conditions , men in the UK may have been most at risk from COVID-19 .
`` This is highlighted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been moving more than women of all age groups . ''

Not staying at home as much as women could be a factor behind why more men have been treated in hospital or died from coronavirus, according to new findings.
During May, men moved 48% further than women, data gathered by the Oxford COVID-19 Impact Monitor found.
The more a person is outside of their home, the more chance they have to come into contact with the virus.
This, along with other factors such as the prevalence of underlying health conditions, offers potential insight into why men in the UK may have been more at risk from COVID-19.
The findings, which are based on anonymised, aggregated and GDPR-compliant location data from mobile phones, show that since the lockdown began on 23 March, men have largely travelled further from home than women.
The reasons why men moved more were not given but one option could be types of work.
Across every age group men have moved further than women in the same age bracket, and in some cases further than women in a younger age range.
Men in their mid-20s to early 30s moved the most - travelling 54% further than women of a similar age by 15 May.
Men in their 50s have moved 28% further than women aged between 23 and 24. Men in their 60s also moved 39% further than women of the same age.
Advertisement
Dr Adam Saunders, who co-leads the Oxford COVID-19 Impact Monitor inter-disciplinary project, said: "To our knowledge, this is the first study which shows differences in population movement, not only between men and women, but also across age groups during the UK's lockdown.
"It clearly shows that men have tended to travel further from home - potentially coming into contact with the virus with greater frequency."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Dr Matthias Qian, co-leader of the project, said: "The extent of differences in movement between men and women offers potential insight into why, in addition to the prevalence of underlying health conditions, men in the UK may have been most at risk from COVID-19.
"This is highlighted by evidence that many older men have been moving more than women of all age groups."


news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: 8.4 million UK workers furloughed as businesses claim £15bn from government scheme

One million UK businesses have claimed £15bn from the government 's coronavirus job retention scheme to cover the wages of 8.4 million furloughed workers , official figures show .
The Treasury also unveiled a big jump in the number of approvals for its Bounce Back Loans , which are aimed at helping small businesses to navigate the coronavirus crisis .
The loans , valued at up to £50,000 and 100 % guaranteed by the government , have proved to be far more popular than the original Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme ( CBILS ) , which was plagued by delays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , just over 600,000 Bounce Back Loans had been approved to the value of £18.49bn .
By the same date , some 43,000 loans had advanced £8.15bn under the CBILS .
The CBILS for larger businesses approved £820m for around 150 successful applications .
The schemes are administered by banks and Alison Rose , chief executive of NatWest Group , said the government guarantee was just part of the attraction for smaller businesses , along with the scheme 's quicker processing time , efficiency and there being fewer conditions to satisfy .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programme that help for larger companies was being processed quickly enough .
Ms Rose said : `` If I look at the amount of support we 're putting in place , we 've advanced £2.6bn for the CBILS loans to larger companies .
`` What you 're seeing is that they 're taking those loans but also the other help we 've put in place : a £5bn working capital fund , increased overdrafts or capital repayment holidays .
`` I think as a business owner you 're making a decision : do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Do I want to get more breathing space by bridging working capital ?
Or do I just want to wait and see ?
So I think it 's across that whole range of measures and ultimately the business owner will decide whether they want to take on that additional lending . ''
In March , Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced government grants would cover 80 % of the salary of staff kept on by their employer but unable to work due to the lockdown .
The coronavirus job retention scheme covers wages up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figures from the Treasury show that by 24 May , 8.4 million jobs had been furloughed by a million employers with claims of £15bn made .
This is up from 3.8 million jobs and £4.5bn a month ago .
Mr Sunak is expected to ask businesses to contribute 20 % of this cost soon .
Ms Rose said : `` I think the furlough scheme has been a helpful process to bridge through as we start getting the economy unlocking and people getting back to work .
`` Businesses are going to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and getting back to a new business as usual .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' I think all businesses are having to evaluate whether they need the some people , how quickly they will be able to get business back on track ...
I think businesses are going to be facing really tough choices on what they implications are of the lockdown and the economic outlook .
`` We 're already starting to see a number of big and smaller @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what the future outlook will be . ''
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

One million UK businesses have claimed £15bn from the government's coronavirus job retention scheme to cover the wages of 8.4 million furloughed workers, official figures show.
The Treasury also unveiled a big jump in the number of approvals for its Bounce Back Loans, which are aimed at helping small businesses to navigate the coronavirus crisis.
The loans, valued at up to £50,000 and 100% guaranteed by the government, have proved to be far more popular than the original Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), which was plagued by delays and complaints.
As of last Sunday, just over 600,000 Bounce Back Loans had been approved to the value of £18.49bn.
By the same date, some 43,000 loans had advanced £8.15bn under the CBILS.
The CBILS for larger businesses approved £820m for around 150 successful applications.
The schemes are administered by banks and Alison Rose, chief executive of NatWest Group, said the government guarantee was just part of the attraction for smaller businesses, along with the scheme's quicker processing time, efficiency and there being fewer conditions to satisfy.
She told Sky News' Ian King Live programme that help for larger companies was being processed quickly enough.
Image: NatWest Group chief executive Alison Rose says business face a difficult time adjusting to the new normal
Ms Rose said: "If I look at the amount of support we're putting in place, we've advanced £2.6bn for the CBILS loans to larger companies.
Advertisement
"What you're seeing is that they're taking those loans but also the other help we've put in place: a £5bn working capital fund, increased overdrafts or capital repayment holidays.
"I think as a business owner you're making a decision: do I want to take on more debt? Do I want to get more breathing space by bridging working capital? Or do I just want to wait and see? So I think it's across that whole range of measures and ultimately the business owner will decide whether they want to take on that additional lending."
In March, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced government grants would cover 80% of the salary of staff kept on by their employer but unable to work due to the lockdown.
The coronavirus job retention scheme covers wages up to £2,500 a month.
The latest figures from the Treasury show that by 24 May, 8.4 million jobs had been furloughed by a million employers with claims of £15bn made. This is up from 3.8 million jobs and £4.5bn a month ago.
Mr Sunak is expected to ask businesses to contribute 20% of this cost soon.
Ms Rose said: "I think the furlough scheme has been a helpful process to bridge through as we start getting the economy unlocking and people getting back to work.
"Businesses are going to have to evaluate what they need going forward and getting back to a new business as usual.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"I think all businesses are having to evaluate whether they need the some people, how quickly they will be able to get business back on track...I think businesses are going to be facing really tough choices on what they implications are of the lockdown and the economic outlook.
"We're already starting to see a number of big and smaller businesses announce redundancies as we size for what the future outlook will be."
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus: Boy, 10, has camped in his garden since lockdown began to raise money for North Devon H

Coronavirus: Boy, 10, has camped in his garden since lockdown began to raise money for North Devon Hospice

A 10-year-old boy has been sleeping in a tent in his garden since lockdown began to raise money for the hospice who cared for his friend .
Max Woosey began his campout on 28 March - just five days after the UK entered its coronavirus lockdown .
He decided to sleep in a tent to raise money for North Devon Hospice in memory of his neighbour Rick , who gave it to him before he died on 14 February .
The youngster , who lives near Barnstaple , only comes inside for his homeschooling lessons and to have dinner and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Nearly nine weeks into his challenge , his mother Rachael says he has `` no intention of giving up '' after raising £2,275 for the hospice .
She said : `` This was all his idea , and all came from him .
He started his camp out on 28 March and straight away he said he 'd do it for the whole of lockdown , which at that point was only three weeks .
`` Of course , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but he 's never shown any sign of wanting to give in , despite the wind and the rain !
We 're just so incredibly proud of him .
`` His resilience is really impressive .
Each night he just needs his torch , a teddy and a couple of Beano comics , then he 's good to go ! ''
North Devon Hospice did n't just look after Rick , they also cared for his wife Sue who died of cancer a few years ago , she added .
At the beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ill and it soon became clear he `` did n't have long left '' .
But Mrs Woosey said the hospice team worked `` around the clock '' to make sure he could be at home for his final weeks .
She added : `` It 's fitting that Max is now using a tent that Rick gave him to raise money for the hospice . ''
Hospices were removed from the NHS supply chain in March to prioritise hospitals in the fight against COVID-19 , according to the charity Hospice UK .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the private sector for personal protective equipment ( PPE ) .
Stephen Roberts , chief executive of North Devon Hospice , said of Max 's efforts : `` Everyone at the hospice is blown away by what this inspiring 10-year-old is doing .
For such a young lad to care so much about helping others is heart-warming .
`` Every pound he raises is vital right now , because of course the demand for our hospice care has risen considerably , but the ability to raise funds has been decimated due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World -- a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ @

A 10-year-old boy has been sleeping in a tent in his garden since lockdown began to raise money for the hospice who cared for his friend.
Max Woosey began his campout on 28 March - just five days after the UK entered its coronavirus lockdown.
He decided to sleep in a tent to raise money for North Devon Hospice in memory of his neighbour Rick, who gave it to him before he died on 14 February.
Image: The schoolboy only comes in for lessons, food and a shower. Pic: Rachael Woosey
The youngster, who lives near Barnstaple, only comes inside for his homeschooling lessons and to have dinner and a shower.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Nearly nine weeks into his challenge, his mother Rachael says he has "no intention of giving up" after raising £2,275 for the hospice.
She said: "This was all his idea, and all came from him. He started his camp out on 28 March and straight away he said he'd do it for the whole of lockdown, which at that point was only three weeks.
"Of course, it's been extended again and again, but he's never shown any sign of wanting to give in, despite the wind and the rain! We're just so incredibly proud of him.
"His resilience is really impressive. Each night he just needs his torch, a teddy and a couple of Beano comics, then he's good to go!"
Advertisement
Image: Max is raising money for North Devon Hospice in memory of his friend Rick. Pic: Rachael Woosey
North Devon Hospice didn't just look after Rick, they also cared for his wife Sue who died of cancer a few years ago, she added.
At the beginning of this year, Rick also became ill and it soon became clear he "didn't have long left".
But Mrs Woosey said the hospice team worked "around the clock" to make sure he could be at home for his final weeks.
She added: "It's fitting that Max is now using a tent that Rick gave him to raise money for the hospice."
Image: He only needs his Beano comics, a torch and teddy at night, his mother says. Pic: Rachael Woosey
Hospices were removed from the NHS supply chain in March to prioritise hospitals in the fight against COVID-19, according to the charity Hospice UK.
This meant bosses were forced to turn to the private sector for personal protective equipment (PPE).
YouTube YouTube , 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 YouTube 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 YouTube cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow YouTube cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Stephen Roberts, chief executive of North Devon Hospice, said of Max's efforts: "Everyone at the hospice is blown away by what this inspiring 10-year-old is doing. For such a young lad to care so much about helping others is heart-warming.
"Every pound he raises is vital right now, because of course the demand for our hospice care has risen considerably, but the ability to raise funds has been decimated due to the current situation."
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World -- a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


news--2020-05-27--Coronavirus lockdown breakers telling police 'if it's okay for Cummings, it's okay for us', says cri

Coronavirus lockdown breakers telling police 'if it's okay for Cummings, it's okay for us', says crime commissioner

People are breaking lockdown rules and using the actions of Boris Johnson 's special adviser - Dominic Cummings - as an excuse , a senior police commissioner has said .
David Jamieson , the West Midlands police and crime commissioner , said members of the public were telling officers `` if it is okay for Cummings , it is okay for us '' .
Mr Cummings has been accused of breaching coronavirus lockdown rules by travelling 260 miles with his wife and child from London to Durham , then making a 30-mile trip to Barnard Castle - which he claims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fit to drive .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker And as the prime minister continued to back his adviser - who has insisted he acted within the rules and refused to apologise - Mr Jamieson said the scandal was making the jobs of police more difficult .
He said people were also telling officers `` it looks like there is one rule for us and another rule for the people in No 10 Downing Street '' .
Mr Jamieson said if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interpretation then it makes it `` almost impossible '' for police to do their job effectively .
He told BBC Radio 4 's The World At One : `` What the police are now saying to me is they are getting quite a push back , not just from some of the younger people who previously where saying why ca n't I play football , why ca n't I go out in the streets ?
They 're getting push backs from other generations of people as well .
`` Now that is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rules , confidence in government and thereby the police 's ability to enforce it has been undermined very much in the last few days . ''
Sky News ' policing commentator Graham Wettone said the furore had `` clearly made things more difficult '' .
`` Police have increasingly been relying on the engage , explain and encourage aspects of their guidance around lockdown restrictions and have been using enforcement measures very much as a last resort , '' he said .
`` The effectiveness of that approach can depend on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public , so if people believe a government adviser is applying their own interpretation to the lockdown regulations , then that 's potentially going to create problems . ''
The backlash against Mr Cummings 's actions has intensified over recent days , with Tory MPs among critics demanding Mr Johnson sack him and polls showing the PM 's popularity falling .
Chief executive of NHS Providers Chris Hopson said the PM should admit the damage done by the controversy .
`` I think it would be really helpful if the prime minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a risk that public trust and confidence in those social distancing guidelines has been dented and if he was to set out really clearly what the government is going to do to restore that lost trust and confidence , '' he said .
Asked whether Mr Cummings should go , Mr Hopson responded : `` I 'm not going to answer that . ''
• None Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

People are breaking lockdown rules and using the actions of Boris Johnson's special adviser - Dominic Cummings - as an excuse, a senior police commissioner has said.
David Jamieson, the West Midlands police and crime commissioner, said members of the public were telling officers "if it is okay for Cummings, it is okay for us".
Mr Cummings has been accused of breaching coronavirus lockdown rules by travelling 260 miles with his wife and child from London to Durham, then making a 30-mile trip to Barnard Castle - which he claims he did to check if he was fit to drive.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
And as the prime minister continued to back his adviser - who has insisted he acted within the rules and refused to apologise - Mr Jamieson said the scandal was making the jobs of police more difficult.
He said people were also telling officers "it looks like there is one rule for us and another rule for the people in No 10 Downing Street".
Mr Jamieson said if the rules are flexible and open to interpretation then it makes it "almost impossible" for police to do their job effectively.
He told BBC Radio 4's The World At One: "What the police are now saying to me is they are getting quite a push back, not just from some of the younger people who previously where saying why can't I play football, why can't I go out in the streets? They're getting push backs from other generations of people as well.
"Now that is a bad sign, showing that confidence in the rules, confidence in government and thereby the police's ability to enforce it has been undermined very much in the last few days."
Advertisement
Sky News' policing commentator Graham Wettone said the furore had "clearly made things more difficult".
"Police have increasingly been relying on the engage, explain and encourage aspects of their guidance around lockdown restrictions and have been using enforcement measures very much as a last resort," he said.
"The effectiveness of that approach can depend on a certain amount of goodwill between officers and the public, so if people believe a government adviser is applying their own interpretation to the lockdown regulations, then that's potentially going to create problems."
The backlash against Mr Cummings's actions has intensified over recent days, with Tory MPs among critics demanding Mr Johnson sack him and polls showing the PM's popularity falling.
Chief executive of NHS Providers Chris Hopson said the PM should admit the damage done by the controversy.
"I think it would be really helpful if the prime minister was to acknowledge the fact that there is a risk that public trust and confidence in those social distancing guidelines has been dented and if he was to set out really clearly what the government is going to do to restore that lost trust and confidence," he said.
Asked whether Mr Cummings should go, Mr Hopson responded: "I'm not going to answer that."


news--2020-04-11--Coronavirus: The 32 funniest memes providing much-needed lockdown laughs

While the world is living through scary , uncertain times , with every aspect of normal life upended , the internet is providing the coping mechanism of comedy to see us through .
Clearly , the global coronavirus pandemic is a serious subject , but keeping spirits up while the planet is in lockdown is also more important than ever .
While comedians are doing their bit , it 's the internet memes that are really coming into their own right now .
Here 's our round-up of some of the best to have emerged during the COVID-19 outbreak .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ commentary for two very good dogs locked in a calm but highly important silent battle for rubber bone victory is what the nation needs right now .
And dogs driving cars will never not bring joy , especially when they 're bringing back lockdown snacks .
Do n't worry , cats , we 've not forgotten about you !
Here 's one moggy making its own fun with items found at home .
( Side note : do n't stockpile loo roll , folks ! )
And here 's another clearly not impressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zoom meeting .
Horses can be funny too , of course .
More than ever , we need good neighbours right now .
Ready !
Steady !
Lockdown !
Many have found new ways to get in touch .
With many musicians putting back album releases , we need new tunes to dance to .
This is a belter .
Can we request something similar for Sky News , pls ?
But do n't expect a live stream from Twitter 's finest any time soon .
There are lots of amazing dance routines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's the taking part that counts .
This musical number is wonderful and terrifying in equal measure .
At times like these , it 's important to say thanks .
In case you did n't see it , the FA was actually forced to confirm it was not using Wembley to cook a `` massive lasagne '' due to a lockdown food shortage , after a spoof WhatsApp conversation went viral .
Washing really is one of the most important things to keep on top of to stop the spread .
Of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outfits , `` interesting '' backgrounds and on-camera eye-rolling - home video conferencing meetings present a myriad of dangers .
Who knew being turned into a potato was one of them ?
In lockdown , every day is Groundhog Day .
So credit where credit 's due to this US news channel .
But at least the police are having fun .
When you 're missing friends and family , mirrors can come in handy .
Parents always say it 's the simplest gifts kids enjoy the most on Christmas Day .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweet , which has been liked more than three million times , is anything to go by .
And remember , shopping is news now .
Now is not a happy time for COVID-19 lookalikes .
But 2020 pub quiz questions in the future are going to be a cinch .
Anyone with a dinosaur costume at home is really providing a public service of joy right now .
And even at our lowest , we can always rely on celebrities to keep us smiling .
We 're all in the same boat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just theirs is much bigger , with tennis courts and a swimming pool .

While the world is living through scary, uncertain times, with every aspect of normal life upended, the internet is providing the coping mechanism of comedy to see us through.
Clearly, the global coronavirus pandemic is a serious subject, but keeping spirits up while the planet is in lockdown is also more important than ever.
While comedians are doing their bit, it's the internet memes that are really coming into their own right now. Here's our round-up of some of the best to have emerged during the COVID-19 outbreak.
We start off with dogs, because commentary for two very good dogs locked in a calm but highly important silent battle for rubber bone victory is what the nation needs right now.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Next up: Helium Dog!
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
And dogs driving cars will never not bring joy, especially when they're bringing back lockdown snacks.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Don't worry, cats, we've not forgotten about you! Here's one moggy making its own fun with items found at home. (Side note: don't stockpile loo roll, folks!)
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
And here's another clearly not impressed with your WFH contributions to today's Zoom meeting.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Horses can be funny too, of course.
Advertisement
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
More than ever, we need good neighbours right now. Ready! Steady! Lockdown!
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Many have found new ways to get in touch.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
With many musicians putting back album releases, we need new tunes to dance to. This is a belter. Can we request something similar for Sky News, pls?
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
But don't expect a live stream from Twitter's finest any time soon.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
There are lots of amazing dance routines to copy. Just remember: it's the taking part that counts.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
This musical number is wonderful and terrifying in equal measure.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
For any Londoner missing normal life...
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
At times like these, it's important to say thanks.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
And drink responsibly.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
In case you didn't see it, the FA was actually forced to confirm it was not using Wembley to cook a "massive lasagne" due to a lockdown food shortage, after a spoof WhatsApp conversation went viral.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Washing really is one of the most important things to keep on top of to stop the spread.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Here's a handy guide.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Of course, so is social distancing.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
WFH outfits, "interesting" backgrounds and on-camera eye-rolling - home video conferencing meetings present a myriad of dangers. Who knew being turned into a potato was one of them?
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Even Jesus is adapting.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
In lockdown, every day is Groundhog Day. So credit where credit's due to this US news channel.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
But at least the police are having fun.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
When you're missing friends and family, mirrors can come in handy.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Parents always say it's the simplest gifts kids enjoy the most on Christmas Day. The same goes for quarantine activities if this tweet, which has been liked more than three million times, is anything to go by.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
It's important to remain positive.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
And remember, shopping is news now.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Now is not a happy time for COVID-19 lookalikes.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
But 2020 pub quiz questions in the future are going to be a cinch.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Anyone with a dinosaur costume at home is really providing a public service of joy right now.
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
And even at our lowest, we can always rely on celebrities to keep us smiling. We're all in the same boat, as they say - it's just theirs is much bigger, with tennis courts and a swimming pool.


news--2020-04-11--Coronavirus: Police apologise after man 'arrested for running errands'

Police have apologised after a man was arrested for apparently helping a vulnerable family member during stay-at-home restrictions .
The unidentified man had been in Fallowfield , Manchester , on Friday afternoon when he was filmed being handcuffed by a police officer .
The man claimed he had been doing errands for a vulnerable family member , saying he had `` come to drop some stuff off '' .
He also said at one point : `` I 'm dropping food off to vulnerable members of my family who ca n't do nothing and I 'm taking a tree home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are asked why the man is being handcuffed , one of them says he was `` breaking COVID guidelines '' - referring to restrictions brought in last month to limit the spread of COVID-19 .
A female neighbour approaches and says there must be `` more pressing situations to be dealing with '' but the officer replies : `` You 'll be next '' .
The officer also threatens to `` spray '' the man , who asks a number of times to have the handcuffs adjusted because he is `` in pain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officer , saying his actions are `` excessive '' .
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said the man was later `` de-arrested '' and given a fixed penalty notice .
They added : `` Although the matter is being investigated fully by our professional standards branch , our initial review shows that the incident was n't dealt with in the professional way we would expect and we apologise for that .
`` The public rightly expect the highest standards from our officers and we will investigate this matter thoroughly and properly .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is speaking to the man and his family today .
`` We would ask that the public understand the stresses that our officers are working under at present and we hope this apology will be welcome to those involved . ''
They added that no more information could be given about the incident because it was now part of a professional standards investigation .
It comes after a number of police forces around the country have been accused of being over-zealous or inconsistent in enforcing social distancing rules over the past few weeks @

Police have apologised after a man was arrested for apparently helping a vulnerable family member during stay-at-home restrictions.
The unidentified man had been in Fallowfield, Manchester, on Friday afternoon when he was filmed being handcuffed by a police officer.
The man claimed he had been doing errands for a vulnerable family member, saying he had "come to drop some stuff off".
He also said at one point: "I'm dropping food off to vulnerable members of my family who can't do nothing and I'm taking a tree home with me."
But when officers are asked why the man is being handcuffed, one of them says he was "breaking COVID guidelines" - referring to restrictions brought in last month to limit the spread of COVID-19.
A female neighbour approaches and says there must be "more pressing situations to be dealing with" but the officer replies: "You'll be next".
The officer also threatens to "spray" the man, who asks a number of times to have the handcuffs adjusted because he is "in pain".
Neighbours also shout at the officer, saying his actions are "excessive".
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said the man was later "de-arrested" and given a fixed penalty notice.
Advertisement
They added: "Although the matter is being investigated fully by our professional standards branch, our initial review shows that the incident wasn't dealt with in the professional way we would expect and we apologise for that.
"The public rightly expect the highest standards from our officers and we will investigate this matter thoroughly and properly.
"A senior member of the force is speaking to the man and his family today.
"We would ask that the public understand the stresses that our officers are working under at present and we hope this apology will be welcome to those involved."
They added that no more information could be given about the incident because it was now part of a professional standards investigation.
It comes after a number of police forces around the country have been accused of being over-zealous or inconsistent in enforcing social distancing rules over the past few weeks.