news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: The dangers lurking behind decision to extend furlough scheme

High streets remain largely shuttered as many businesses are forced to keep their doors closed It is fair to say the main reaction from businesses and trade unions to Chancellor Rishi Sunak 's extension of the government 's Job Retention Scheme has been one of relief .
All the mood music in Westminster during the last two weeks had been that the scheme might be extended until the end of July or maybe August - raising fears of a `` cliff edge '' end to the wage support and risking a sudden , vast , surge in unemployment .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of government support for the wages of workers would be reduced from 80 % of monthly salaries to 60 % or lower as the COVID-19 health crisis diminishes .
So there will be relief from employers and employees that the scheme has been extended out to the end of October and at the current 80 % level .
The decision to extend the scheme between August and October to furloughed staff working part time will also be welcomed .
This has been something sought by both employers - particularly SMEs ( small and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will add flexibility to the system , making it easier for employers to welcome back their employees in a phased and gradual basis .
Pessimists may argue it is merely a recognition from the government that it is going to be far harder to escape lockdown than it was to impose it in the first place .
A further advantage of the extension is that it will prevent a possible spike in the number of previously furloughed workers returning to work before employers could reconfigure offices , shops and factories to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public transport systems could cope with the rush .
There was , however , a sting in the tail for employers who , from August , will be invited to contribute to the salaries of furloughed staff .
That decision appears to acknowledge the vast cost of the scheme and represents an attempt to get employers to contribute .
The Office for Budget Responsibility estimates that running the scheme until the end of June , as was envisaged until today , would have cost £49bn .
Extending the scheme further on the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ double that bill .
The Institute for Fiscal Studies is a little more conservative .
Carl Emmerson , deputy director at the IFS , said : `` Extending the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for a fifth month , in its current form , will increase the cost by £10bn or so .
It brings the total support provided through this scheme up to around £60bn . ''
Either way - the true cost will not become apparent for many months - the scheme is expensive .
But the chancellor had a tricky balancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheme , by long and by how much .
As Heather Self , a partner at the tax and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg , put it : `` If he provides too much [ support ] it will be very expensive and may discourage firms from reopening .
If he provides too little , thousands of people could lose their jobs .
`` It is going to be a turbulent time for the labour market in the autumn .
Some sectors , such as the hospitality and tourism sector , are likely to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as construction and financial services will be relieved to see a gradual winding-down of support . ''
And the approach of getting employers to contribute to the scheme is not without risk .
The biggest is that some employers , struggling for cash , will opt to make employees redundant rather than pay them to sit at home .
That may especially be the case for some sectors , such as bars , pubs and restaurants , which are not being allowed to emerge from lockdown at the same pace as other sectors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be particularly interesting , when the further details are released by the Treasury , to see whether exemptions are introduced for those sectors for the need for employers to contribute to the wages of furloughed employees .
It is also worth pointing out that by no means all employers will welcome the extension of the scheme .
Ultra-low interest rates in the decade following the financial crisis prevented a jump in unemployment .
Yet they also created thousands of `` zombie companies '' - businesses kept alive by being able to service , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which have contributed to the UK 's woeful productivity record .
Some economists worry , in the same way , that the day of reckoning will now be put off for some uncompetitive businesses which , in the absence of COVID-19 , might have gone bust anyway .
Others may now become addicted to government support .
Either way , prolonging the life of the scheme threatens to create more zombie companies .
The extension also raises the danger that struggling companies will now put off vital reorganisations , again contributing to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planning reorganisations or redundancies at the end of June may now feel unable to do so .
But the biggest danger of the extension is this : a lot of the jobs currently protected by the furlough scheme will ultimately go anyway once the economy emerges from lockdown as business owners close their doors permanently either due to exhaustion , a loss of momentum or a lack of cash .
A lot of money may end up having been wasted and , under those circumstances , it might also be argued that extending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from seeking other jobs , seeking retraining or even switching careers .
Concerns in Westminster and Whitehall that the government is fostering a `` something for nothing '' culture have also surfaced .
So have concerns that ministers are listening too much to the unions , who have been instrumental in arguing for the scheme to be extended and tweaked , with echoes of the `` beer and sandwiches at No 10 '' days of the 1970s .
There is also a debate as to whether the scheme will continue in a more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ old 'Kurzarbeit ' ( short-time work ) scheme in Germany , under which the state compensates employers for keeping workers on their payroll .
The scheme , a variant of which exists in France , has been credited with preventing mass lay-offs by major German employers after the financial crisis .
But that is a debate for another day .
In the meantime spare a thought for HM Revenue & Customs which , having implemented the original Job Retention Scheme quickly and efficiently , now faces having to implement all of the chancellor @ @ @

Sky's Ian King says there are considerable risks behind Rishi Sunak's continuing support for workers' wages.
High streets remain largely shuttered as many businesses are forced to keep their doors closed
It is fair to say the main reaction from businesses and trade unions to Chancellor Rishi Sunak's extension of the government's Job Retention Scheme has been one of relief.
All the mood music in Westminster during the last two weeks had been that the scheme might be extended until the end of July or maybe August - raising fears of a "cliff edge" end to the wage support and risking a sudden, vast, surge in unemployment.
There had also been speculation that the level of government support for the wages of workers would be reduced from 80% of monthly salaries to 60% or lower as the COVID-19 health crisis diminishes.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:13 Chancellor announces extension to furlough scheme
So there will be relief from employers and employees that the scheme has been extended out to the end of October and at the current 80% level.
The decision to extend the scheme between August and October to furloughed staff working part time will also be welcomed.
This has been something sought by both employers - particularly SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) - and the unions and will add flexibility to the system, making it easier for employers to welcome back their employees in a phased and gradual basis.
Pessimists may argue it is merely a recognition from the government that it is going to be far harder to escape lockdown than it was to impose it in the first place.
A further advantage of the extension is that it will prevent a possible spike in the number of previously furloughed workers returning to work before employers could reconfigure offices, shops and factories to take account of social distancing guidelines or before public transport systems could cope with the rush.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:28 Worried about crisis-led surge in national debt?
There was, however, a sting in the tail for employers who, from August, will be invited to contribute to the salaries of furloughed staff.
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That decision appears to acknowledge the vast cost of the scheme and represents an attempt to get employers to contribute.
The Office for Budget Responsibility estimates that running the scheme until the end of June, as was envisaged until today, would have cost £49bn. Extending the scheme further on the same terms until the end of October would double that bill.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies is a little more conservative.
Carl Emmerson, deputy director at the IFS, said: "Extending the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for a fifth month, in its current form, will increase the cost by £10bn or so. It brings the total support provided through this scheme up to around £60bn."
Either way - the true cost will not become apparent for many months - the scheme is expensive.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:02 TV chef: Tasting food among re-opening challenges
But the chancellor had a tricky balancing act in deciding whether to extend the scheme, by long and by how much.
As Heather Self, a partner at the tax and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg, put it: "If he provides too much [support] it will be very expensive and may discourage firms from reopening. If he provides too little, thousands of people could lose their jobs.
"It is going to be a turbulent time for the labour market in the autumn. Some sectors, such as the hospitality and tourism sector, are likely to see significant redundancies, while others such as construction and financial services will be relieved to see a gradual winding-down of support."
And the approach of getting employers to contribute to the scheme is not without risk.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:36 Ryanair plans to run 40% of flights by 1 July
The biggest is that some employers, struggling for cash, will opt to make employees redundant rather than pay them to sit at home.
That may especially be the case for some sectors, such as bars, pubs and restaurants, which are not being allowed to emerge from lockdown at the same pace as other sectors of the economy.
So it will be particularly interesting, when the further details are released by the Treasury, to see whether exemptions are introduced for those sectors for the need for employers to contribute to the wages of furloughed employees.
It is also worth pointing out that by no means all employers will welcome the extension of the scheme.
Ultra-low interest rates in the decade following the financial crisis prevented a jump in unemployment. Yet they also created thousands of "zombie companies" - businesses kept alive by being able to service, but never repay, their debts and which have contributed to the UK's woeful productivity record.
Some economists worry, in the same way, that the day of reckoning will now be put off for some uncompetitive businesses which, in the absence of COVID-19, might have gone bust anyway. Others may now become addicted to government support. Either way, prolonging the life of the scheme threatens to create more zombie companies.
The extension also raises the danger that struggling companies will now put off vital reorganisations, again contributing to the productivity crisis, while others that were planning reorganisations or redundancies at the end of June may now feel unable to do so.
But the biggest danger of the extension is this: a lot of the jobs currently protected by the furlough scheme will ultimately go anyway once the economy emerges from lockdown as business owners close their doors permanently either due to exhaustion, a loss of momentum or a lack of cash.
A lot of money may end up having been wasted and, under those circumstances, it might also be argued that extending the scheme will have deterred some workers from seeking other jobs, seeking retraining or even switching careers.
Concerns in Westminster and Whitehall that the government is fostering a "something for nothing" culture have also surfaced. So have concerns that ministers are listening too much to the unions, who have been instrumental in arguing for the scheme to be extended and tweaked, with echoes of the "beer and sandwiches at No 10" days of the 1970s.
There is also a debate as to whether the scheme will continue in a more permanent form, rather like the 100-year old 'Kurzarbeit' (short-time work) scheme in Germany, under which the state compensates employers for keeping workers on their payroll. The scheme, a variant of which exists in France, has been credited with preventing mass lay-offs by major German employers after the financial crisis.
But that is a debate for another day.
In the meantime spare a thought for HM Revenue & Customs which, having implemented the original Job Retention Scheme quickly and efficiently, now faces having to implement all of the chancellor's changes.


news--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: Dr Anthony Fauci's warning against rush to reopen puts him on collision course with Tru

Coronavirus : Dr Anthony Fauci 's warning against rush to reopen puts him on collision course with Trump Coronavirus : Dr Anthony Fauci 's warning against rush to reopen puts him on collision course with Trump Dr Fauci fears a second wave of coronavirus while Mr Trump is more optimistic Dr Anthony Fauci is America 's top leading infectious diseases expert .
He has been a reassuring , constant voice of caution and balance in an often hyperbolic , hyper tense environment .
It was clear in his testimony before the Senate Health , Labor , Education and Pensions Committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - a rush to re-open could have grave consequences for the country .
If `` states or cities or regions '' disregard the government 's `` checkpoints '' on when it 's safe to pull back from mitigation measures , Fauci said : `` I feel if that occurs , there is a real risk that you will trigger an outbreak that you might not be able to control , which , in fact , paradoxically , will set you back , not only leading to some suffering and death , that could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you back on the road to trying to get economic recovery .
`` We would almost turn the clock back , rather than going forward . ''
As for the next school year , the senior scientist said there are new , unusual cases involving children getting sick that need to be understood first .
The idea he could tell parents that it 's safe for kids to return in the autumn to school he say , `` might be a bridge too far at this time . ''
Dr Fauci , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Infectious Diseases , also conceded the death rate is likely higher than the 80,000 reported .
But with his sombre analysis , also came words of hope .
He told the committee that scientists aim to know if a successful coronavirus vaccine has been found by late fall and early winter .
He added that he was `` cautiously optimistic '' about a vaccine .
There are eight currently being accelerated .
`` We have many candidates and hope to have multiple winners , '' Dr Fauci explained to senators .
Administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is on the way - 25 to 30 million tests a month , along with tracing to better determine the spread .
But until then Dr Fauci says , it is very conceivable there will be a second wave .
It is not a surprising assessment - there have been warnings of that for weeks .
But the tone is at odds with that of Donald Trump who has sounded very positive notes about the readiness of America to re-open and its success in overcoming the pandemic .
: : Listen to Divided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spotify , and Spreaker The concern among those he 's working alongside is that states and people are n't following the guidelines the Coronavirus Taskforce has laid out .
Scenes of beaches and parks packed with people not wearing masks have alarmed those like Dr Fauci who put together the recommendations .
The president is not alone in his frustrations - far from it .
Some states have been incredibly vocal in their desires to return to normality .
But the man at the coalface of the medical and scientific response has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a return to normal is or should be imminent .

The expert's viewpoint is at odds with the president who has made it clear he wants to get the economy moving again immediately.
Coronavirus: Dr Anthony Fauci's warning against rush to reopen puts him on collision course with Trump
Dr Fauci fears a second wave of coronavirus while Mr Trump is more optimistic
Dr Anthony Fauci is America's top leading infectious diseases expert. He has been a reassuring, constant voice of caution and balance in an often hyperbolic, hyper tense environment.
It was clear in his testimony before the Senate Health, Labor, Education and Pensions Committee, he wanted to issue a warning - a rush to re-open could have grave consequences for the country.
If "states or cities or regions" disregard the government's "checkpoints" on when it's safe to pull back from mitigation measures, Fauci said: "I feel if that occurs, there is a real risk that you will trigger an outbreak that you might not be able to control, which, in fact, paradoxically, will set you back, not only leading to some suffering and death, that could be avoided, but could even set you back on the road to trying to get economic recovery.
"We would almost turn the clock back, rather than going forward."
As for the next school year, the senior scientist said there are new, unusual cases involving children getting sick that need to be understood first.
The idea he could tell parents that it's safe for kids to return in the autumn to school he say, "might be a bridge too far at this time."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:13 Dr Fauci warns against reopening the US
Dr Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, also conceded the death rate is likely higher than the 80,000 reported. But with his sombre analysis, also came words of hope.
He told the committee that scientists aim to know if a successful coronavirus vaccine has been found by late fall and early winter. He added that he was "cautiously optimistic" about a vaccine.
There are eight currently being accelerated. "We have many candidates and hope to have multiple winners," Dr Fauci explained to senators.
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Administration officials said a massive increase in testing is on the way - 25 to 30 million tests a month, along with tracing to better determine the spread. But until then Dr Fauci says, it is very conceivable there will be a second wave.
It is not a surprising assessment - there have been warnings of that for weeks. But the tone is at odds with that of Donald Trump who has sounded very positive notes about the readiness of America to re-open and its success in overcoming the pandemic.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The concern among those he's working alongside is that states and people aren't following the guidelines the Coronavirus Taskforce has laid out.
Scenes of beaches and parks packed with people not wearing masks have alarmed those like Dr Fauci who put together the recommendations.
The president is not alone in his frustrations - far from it. Some states have been incredibly vocal in their desires to return to normality.
But the man at the coalface of the medical and scientific response has made clear - he doesn't think a return to normal is or should be imminent.


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: Novak Djokovic tests positive for COVID-19 following controversial tennis tour

Novak Djokovic has tested positive for coronavirus after hosting a controversial tennis tournament across eastern Europe .
The men 's world number one tennis player confirmed his COVID-19 diagnosis in a statement - and defended his decision to host the tour despite the continued prevalence of the disease around the world .
In April , Djokovic had revealed he was an anti-vaxxer - and that a mandated vaccination programme could get in the way of his return to competitive tennis once the sport resumes after the coronavirus pandemic .
Sky News sports correspondent Martha Kelner said : `` Djokovic has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for coronavirus after his Adria Tour , which took place in the Balkans with zero social distancing .
`` The world number one organised the tennis event , which took place in Belgrade , Serbia and Zadar , Croatia .
`` Fans were able to freely mingle with players who also played basketball and danced in nightclubs .
Two members of Djokovic 's support staff , along with players Grigor Dimitrov , Borna Coric and Victor Troicki , have tested positive . ''
In his statement , Djokovic said his wife Jelena also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children tested negative .
Defending his tournament , the Serbian star said : `` Everything we did in the past month , we did with a pure heart and sincere intentions .
`` Our tournament meant to unite and share a message of solidarity and compassion throughout the region . ''
`` The tour has been designed to help both established and up and coming tennis players from south-eastern Europe to gain access to some competitive tennis while the various tours are on hold due to the COVID-19 situation , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a philanthropic idea to direct all raised funds towards people in need and it warmed my heart to see how everybody strongly responded to this .
`` We organised the tournament at the moment when the virus has weakened , believing that the conditions for hosting the tour had been met .
`` Unfortunately , this virus is still present , and it is a new reality that we are still learning to cope and live with .
I am hoping things will ease with time so we can all resume lives the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extremely sorry for each individual case of infection .
I hope that it will not complicate anyone 's health situation and that everyone will be fine .
I will remain in self-isolation for the next 14 days , and repeat the test in five days . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios described the decision to put on the event as `` bonehead '' .
Men 's British number one Dan Evans said it was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The coronavirus pandemic has forced a number of tennis tournaments to be cancelled this year , including Wimbledon , which was due to start next week .

Novak Djokovic has tested positive for coronavirus after hosting a controversial tennis tournament across eastern Europe.
The men's world number one tennis player confirmed his COVID-19 diagnosis in a statement - and defended his decision to host the tour despite the continued prevalence of the disease around the world.
In April, Djokovic had revealed he was an anti-vaxxer - and that a mandated vaccination programme could get in the way of his return to competitive tennis once the sport resumes after the coronavirus pandemic.
Image: Alexander Zverev, Novak Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Dominic Thiem all took part in the tournament
Sky News sports correspondent Martha Kelner said: "Djokovic has become the fourth player to test positive for coronavirus after his Adria Tour, which took place in the Balkans with zero social distancing.
"The world number one organised the tennis event, which took place in Belgrade, Serbia and Zadar, Croatia.
"Fans were able to freely mingle with players who also played basketball and danced in nightclubs. Two members of Djokovic's support staff, along with players Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Victor Troicki, have tested positive."
In his statement, Djokovic said his wife Jelena also tested positive for COVID-19, but his children tested negative.
Defending his tournament, the Serbian star said: "Everything we did in the past month, we did with a pure heart and sincere intentions.
"Our tournament meant to unite and share a message of solidarity and compassion throughout the region."
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Image: There appeared to be a lack of social distancing at events
"The tour has been designed to help both established and up and coming tennis players from south-eastern Europe to gain access to some competitive tennis while the various tours are on hold due to the COVID-19 situation," he said.
"It was all born with a philanthropic idea to direct all raised funds towards people in need and it warmed my heart to see how everybody strongly responded to this.
"We organised the tournament at the moment when the virus has weakened, believing that the conditions for hosting the tour had been met.
"Unfortunately, this virus is still present, and it is a new reality that we are still learning to cope and live with. I am hoping things will ease with time so we can all resume lives the way they were.
"I am extremely sorry for each individual case of infection. I hope that it will not complicate anyone's health situation and that everyone will be fine. I will remain in self-isolation for the next 14 days, and repeat the test in five days."
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Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios described the decision to put on the event as "bonehead".
Men's British number one Dan Evans said it was "a poor example to set".
The coronavirus pandemic has forced a number of tennis tournaments to be cancelled this year, including Wimbledon, which was due to start next week.


news--2020-06-22--Coronavirus: England cricket stars to begin life in a biosecure bubble

England 's cricket stars will begin life in a biosecure bubble on Tuesday after being tested for COVID-19 ahead of the Test series against the West Indies .
They will spend the next three weeks confined to the third floor of the Hilton hotel in a complex attached to Southampton 's Ageas Bowl cricket ground .
The 30 players in the squad , and around 15 support staff , will be tested before they move into their hotel and will have to spend the first 24 hours alone in their room until their tests results are received .
Ollie Pope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England 's brightest young talents , is among those about to enter the bubble .
`` As cricketers we do spend a lot of time away from home but usually you 're allowed family to visit , '' he said .
`` It will be very strange to be confined to your room and even when you go for dinner with the teammates in the hotel you still have to spread out and no popping down the road for a coffee .
`` We 're not sure when we 're going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've packed and prepared for a pretty long time . ''
Beefy 's restaurant inside the Hilton would usually be open to cricket fans , but has been specially configured into a socially distanced dining room for the England team .
Each morning , before heading to the nursery ground for practise , they will have to walk through a tent with thermal cameras to check for coronavirus symptoms .
The Ageas Bowl has been divided into zones with only the players and key support staff permitted entry to certain areas .
Reminders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been prepared for their entry to the site with information meetings on video conference calls .
`` We know we have to bring our own balls to every fielding session , '' said Pope .
`` But it quickly becomes the norm .
They 've got to cover all bases and go above and beyond just in case something does break out .
When we 're in the hotel we have to wear masks all the time so that will be very weird .
`` We 've had a few discussions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 'll have to adjust our celebrations and not get too carried away , keep it to a knuckle touch or even a foot tap , we 'll think of something quirky . ''
For some , being inside the bubble is more problematic .
England captain Joe Root is expecting the birth of his second child in the first half of July , during which time England will play a three-Test series against the West Indies .
Steve Elworthy , the operations director for the England and Wales Cricket Board , has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Ageas Bowl and is trying to find a way for Root to safely leave and return , if possible .
`` The thing we really need to consider is keeping both environments he moves into safe and secure .
`` Not only the England team and Joe himself , but also the environment he moves into , so his family .
`` And as we know , testing protocols change very quickly so we 're doing absolutely everything we can to see if we can find a way to allow that to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obviously play in the first Test match behind closed doors .
`` It 's going to be a first for him and we know how integral he is to the England team so we are working on everything we can . ''
The West Indies team arrived in England earlier this month .
Both teams will travel from Southampton to Manchester for the second and third Tests at Old Trafford .
England players will travel separately in their own vehicles .
A county ground will be open on the route , possibly Edgbaston @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lunch in a biosecure environment .

England's cricket stars will begin life in a biosecure bubble on Tuesday after being tested for COVID-19 ahead of the Test series against the West Indies.
They will spend the next three weeks confined to the third floor of the Hilton hotel in a complex attached to Southampton's Ageas Bowl cricket ground.
The 30 players in the squad, and around 15 support staff, will be tested before they move into their hotel and will have to spend the first 24 hours alone in their room until their tests results are received.
Image: Players have to take their own balls to every fielding session
Ollie Pope, a 22-year-old batsman and one of England's brightest young talents, is among those about to enter the bubble.
"As cricketers we do spend a lot of time away from home but usually you're allowed family to visit," he said.
"It will be very strange to be confined to your room and even when you go for dinner with the teammates in the hotel you still have to spread out and no popping down the road for a coffee.
"We're not sure when we're going to be allowed out of the hotel so we've packed and prepared for a pretty long time."
Beefy's restaurant inside the Hilton would usually be open to cricket fans, but has been specially configured into a socially distanced dining room for the England team.
Each morning, before heading to the nursery ground for practise, they will have to walk through a tent with thermal cameras to check for coronavirus symptoms.
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The Ageas Bowl has been divided into zones with only the players and key support staff permitted entry to certain areas.
Reminders about social distancing are omnipresent and players have been prepared for their entry to the site with information meetings on video conference calls.
Image: The Ageas Bowl has been divided into zones
Image: England's Ollie Pope
"We know we have to bring our own balls to every fielding session," said Pope.
"But it quickly becomes the norm. They've got to cover all bases and go above and beyond just in case something does break out. When we're in the hotel we have to wear masks all the time so that will be very weird.
"We've had a few discussions and I think when we do take wickets we'll have to adjust our celebrations and not get too carried away, keep it to a knuckle touch or even a foot tap, we'll think of something quirky."
For some, being inside the bubble is more problematic.
England captain Joe Root is expecting the birth of his second child in the first half of July, during which time England will play a three-Test series against the West Indies.
Steve Elworthy, the operations director for the England and Wales Cricket Board, has been instrumental in developing the bubble at the Ageas Bowl and is trying to find a way for Root to safely leave and return, if possible.
Image: England Test captain Joe Root talks with West Indies skipper Jason Holder during the series in the Caribbean in 2019
"The thing we really need to consider is keeping both environments he moves into safe and secure.
"Not only the England team and Joe himself, but also the environment he moves into, so his family.
"And as we know, testing protocols change very quickly so we're doing absolutely everything we can to see if we can find a way to allow that to happen because we'd love him to obviously play in the first Test match behind closed doors.
"It's going to be a first for him and we know how integral he is to the England team so we are working on everything we can."
The West Indies team arrived in England earlier this month.
Both teams will travel from Southampton to Manchester for the second and third Tests at Old Trafford.
England players will travel separately in their own vehicles. A county ground will be open on the route, possibly Edgbaston or Derby, in order for them to lunch in a biosecure environment.


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: A full list of the rules that are changing in England - and how they differ from the re

Coronavirus: A full list of the rules that are changing in England - and how they differ from the rest of the UK

All four UK nations are continuing to loosen their lockdown measures to allow people more freedom .
However , England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland differ from each other as they make their own decisions on what can be eased - and nobody can move across borders yet .
Each government 's measures need to be reviewed every three weeks by law and are each based on scientific advice , such as keeping `` the R number '' below one .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said England 's `` national hibernation '' was coming to an end as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be reduced when pubs , restaurants and hotels open from July .
However , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said there are no plans to relax the two-metre social distancing rule in Scotland for now .
Sky News is keeping track of the rules for all four nations .
Mr Johnson 's `` conditional plan '' for easing the coronavirus lockdown in England previously set out three phases .
The slogan of `` stay at home , protect the NHS , save lives '' was changed to `` stay alert , control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On 23 June , Mr Johnson gave his latest update on what restrictions will be lifted from 4 July , as he said the government 's approach was to `` trust the British public to use their common sense in the full knowledge of the risks '' .
• The two-metre social distancing rule will be reduced to `` one-metre plus '' • Pubs and restaurants can reopen but will have to take the names and contact details of customers in case they need to be reached as part of the government 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be allowed to stay overnight at hotels , bed and breakfasts and campsites • Community centres and bingo halls will be permitted to reopen • Wedding services of up to 30 people will be allowed , provided social distancing is maintained , with places of worship permitted to reopen • Outdoor gyms and playgrounds can be used • All reopened premises will have to introduce a range of safety measures to ensure they are `` COVID secure '' • Gatherings of two different households can take place indoors , providing social distancing is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and dinner parties will be allowed .
People are however still advised to limit the time they spend with others • Most leisure facilities and tourist attractions can reopen What restrictions are still in place ?
• People still ca n't hug their loved ones • Theatres and concert halls can begin operating , but can not stage live performances • Nightclubs , indoor gyms and beauty salons must remain closed `` for now '' • Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said the government is hoping to reopen gyms and leisure centres in mid-July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Gather in groups of up to six people in public or private outdoor spaces , as long as social distancing was practised • Play sports such as tennis and football with the people that they meet , but only if it is possible to keep a two-metre distance • Return to school if they are in reception , Year 1 , Year 6 or of nursery age - despite teaching unions expressing serious doubts • Meet loved ones if they had been `` shielding '' from the virus • Visit outdoor retail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showrooms where social distancing can be observed • Return home from university if it was a permanent move • Go to property viewings in person and visit agents for both sales and rentals • Invite nannies and childminders to come to their house to look after children , provided good public health measures are adhered to • Form a `` support bubble '' with one other household - meeting inside and staying overnight - if they live alone or are a single parent with a child under 18 The government introduced fines for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased from £60 to £100 .
Repeat offenders will see the fine double for each subsequent breach to a maximum of £3,200 .
Advice for over 70s and the vulnerable : Millions of people `` shielding '' during the coronavirus outbreak will be able to meet six others from outside their home from 6 July .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the change will apply in England for those deemed clinically `` extremely vulnerable '' .
They will no longer have to shield from 1 August - but the government says support from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will remain in place .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said the two-metre social distancing rule will remain in place in Scotland for now .
However , Scotland has asked its scientific advisory group to review the measure and the findings are expected to be reported by 2 July .
The first minister has earlier announced Scotland 's lockdown would be relaxed in a four-phase `` route map '' .
The country transitioned to phase two of its four-step plan on 19 June .
These are the proposed dates for lockdown easing measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indoor workplaces can reopen • Travel distance restrictions will be relaxed , meaning people will no longer be forced to stay within five miles of their homes for recreation • Self-catering accommodation will be able to open • Scotland will enter phase three of lockdown if coronavirus cases continue to reduce • People can meet in extended groups outdoors with physical distancing • Households can meet indoors with a maximum of two other households , with physical distancing • Dentists can reopen for most routine care • The tourism sector and all holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also be able to open , subject to physical distancing measures along with `` a number of conditions '' being followed • Museums , cinemas , libraries and childcare will start up again • People who live on their own or only with children under 18 have been able to form an `` extended household group '' .
This means they can meet indoors without social distancing and can stay overnight • Scots can meet two other households at the same time while outside - up to a maximum of eight people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inside to use the toilet when meeting in someone else 's garden • Anyone leaving home should stay within a roughly five-mile radius of their home for recreational purposes • Anyone shielding can go outside for exercise .
They can also meet people from one other household - maintaining social distancing • Garden centres are allowed to open - but not their cafes • Face coverings are mandatory on public transport in Scotland • Dentists have also been able to open • Outdoor industries like agriculture and construction have resumed • Professional sport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of worship have been able to reopen - although only for individual prayer and not services : : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The Welsh government has announced a three-week cycle of further changes from 22 June .
Mark Drakeford , the first minister , has also told the tourism sector it can prepare to reopen , and take bookings for stays beginning on the 13 July .
• All non-essential retail can open within social distancing guidelines • Private prayer can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House viewings can take place and postponed property sales can be completed Some pupils will be able to return to school to catch up on work and prepare for September People will be able to travel freely throughout Wales for any reason • People from two different households in the same local area can meet up outdoors , but they must continue to maintain social distancing and strict hand hygiene • They must also stay local , meaning they must n't - as a general rule - travel more than five miles from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work , to seek care or shopping for essentials if they are n't available locally • Vulnerable people who have been `` shielding '' from the virus have been advised they can exercise at times that are not too busy • People could carry out unlimited exercise outdoors but must `` stay local '' , starting and ending at home and only with people from their household - with a quick break to eat something The Northern Ireland Executive has a five-stage `` pathway to recovery '' plan for easing its lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that social distancing will be reduced from two metres to one on 29 June .
She said that would be acceptable `` where appropriate mitigations are made '' .
These are the proposed dates for lockdown easing measures : • Caravan parks , campsites and self-contained tourist accommodation will be able to reopen from 26 June • Places of worship can reopen from 29 June , and are already available for private prayer , while drive-in church services and cinemas are also allowed • Elite athletes will be able to use indoor training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bars , restaurants , hotels , cafes , coffee shops and betting shops can reopen from 3 July • Indoor pubs and bars opening on that date will have to primarily function as restaurants and offer substantial meals with table service • Visitor attractions barring museums and galleries can also reopen from 3 July • Hair salons , barbers and nail bars can reopen on 6 July , as can tattoo shops and reflexology • Playgrounds will be unlocked on 10 July and libraries will open on 16 July • Seated venues such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July • Leisure centres can reopen on 7 August , as can indoor sports courts and skating rinks • Socially-distanced spectators will be able to return to indoor events from 28 August • Schools in Northern Ireland will have a social distancing rule of one metre when they reopen in August • Groups of up to six people who do not share a household are allowed to meet outdoors two metres apart • Non-contact outdoor activities are allowed , including fishing , golf , tennis and some water sports • No restrictions on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in Northern Ireland • Use face coverings if you can not social distance

All four UK nations are continuing to loosen their lockdown measures to allow people more freedom.
However, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland differ from each other as they make their own decisions on what can be eased in relation to the coronavirus outbreak.
Each government's measures need to be reviewed every three weeks by law and are based on scientific advice, such as keeping "the R number" below one.
ENGLAND
Boris Johnson has detailed extra powers for ministers and local councils to act on outbreaks, but he also revealed key dates for more reopenings in England.
But while casinos, bowling alleys and conference halls were among a range of venues allowed to reopen across England on 15 August, these relaxation measures have been delayed in areas where restrictions are currently in place - in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, East Lancashire and Leicester.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:09 The science behind face masks
From 15 August:
Indoor performances with socially distanced live audiences - including in theatres and sports stadiums - can resume
Wedding receptions for up to 30 people can be held
Bowling lanes, skating rinks, casinos and beauticians can reopen as long as they have measures in place to reduce COVID-19 transmission
transmission Beauticians, tattooists, spas and tanning salons can offer additional services, including front-of-face treatments such as eyebrow threading
From October:
Audiences may be able to return to sports stadiums following pilot projects
Conferences and business events may be allowed to restart
From November:
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Social distancing measures may be eased if the prevalence of COVID-19 falls significantly
What restrictions are still in place?
People still can't hug their loved ones and are expected to maintain social distancing with other groups
Nightclubs and soft play areas must remain closed for now
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What is already allowed:
Advice to avoid using public transport was lifted, allowing people to make non-essential journeys on buses and trains
Beauticians, tattooists, spas and tanning salons can open, but with restrictions for high-contact treatments
Go to outdoor swimming pools, but in reduced numbers
Attend outdoor theatre, opera, dance and music performances and classes
Club level cricket can be played again
Visit pubs and restaurants, while observing social distancing
Get a haircut
Go on holiday in self-contained accommodation or go to a leisure facility, such as a theme park
Visit community centres
Gather in groups of up to six people in public or private outdoor spaces, as long as social distancing was practised
Visit non-essential shops
Play sports such as tennis and football with the people that they meet, but only if it is possible to keep a two-metre distance
Return to school if they are in reception, Year 1, Year 6 or of nursery age - despite teaching unions expressing serious doubts
Meet loved ones if they had been "shielding" from the virus
Visit outdoor retail spaces such as outdoor markets and car showrooms where social distancing can be observed
Return home from university if it was a permanent move
Go to property viewings in person and visit agents for both sales and rentals
Invite nannies and childminders to come to their house to look after children, provided good public health measures are adhered to
Form a "support bubble" with one other household - meeting inside and staying overnight - if they live alone or are a single parent with a child under 18
Gyms, fitness centres, indoor pools and dance studios reopened on 25 July
From 1 August, employers can discuss with staff whether it is safe to return to their workplace
Most remaining leisure centres can reopen
SCOTLAND Not before 31 July: Non-essential offices and call centres can re-open then, but working from home and working flexibly remain the default position Live indoor and outdoor events, including theatres, music venues and bingo halls, with physical distancing and restricted numbers Indoor gyms and outdoor contact sports Driving lessons What is already allowed: Outdoors - one household can meet up to four other households at a time - up to 15 people in total Indoors - one household can meet up to two other households at a time - up to eight people in total, including overnight stays A household can meet up to four other households per day in total The limit on the number of other households you can meet per day (indoors or outdoors) doesn't apply to people under 18 Children aged 11 or under no longer need to physically distance indoors. Young people aged 12-17 must continue to physically distance Extended Households: Non-cohabiting partners (and any children under 18 in their households) can form an extended household without physical distancing Organised outdoor contact sports are allowed for those under 18 Non-essential shops inside shopping centres have re-opened Places of worship are open for services All holiday accommodation is permitted, as is indoor hospitality and hairdressers and barbers, museums, galleries, monuments, libraries and cinemas All childcare providers can open subject to individual provider arrangements Restrictions have been eased at funerals, marriage ceremonies and civil partnerships registrations WALES Not before 25 July: Campsites and other businesses with shared facilities Not before 27 July: Indoor cinemas, museums, galleries, archive services, tattooists and body piercing Not before 3 August: Pubs and restaurants cannot open indoors until then, when a decision will be taken on the "latest conditions and evidence" What is already allowed: Playgrounds are now open People are able to travel freely throughout Wales for any reason Pubs and restaurants can serve people outdoors Conditions requiring people to self-isolate when returning back in to the country will be relaxed for those coming from a large number of countries Self-catering, self-contained accommodation can reopen Outdoor gyms have been open since 20 July Outdoor attractions can begin welcoming guests People from two different households in the same local area can meet up outdoors, but they must continue to maintain social distancing and strict hand hygiene They must also stay local, meaning they mustn't - as a general rule - travel more than five miles from home Exceptions will be people travelling to work, to seek care or shopping for essentials if they aren't available locally Vulnerable people who have been "shielding" from the virus have been advised they can exercise at times that are not too busy People could carry out unlimited exercise outdoors but must "stay local", starting and ending at home and only with people from their household - with a quick break to eat something Garden centres can reopen Recycling centres and libraries can open All non-essential retail can open within social distancing guidelines Private prayer can take place in places of worship Childcare facilities can begin to reopen House viewings can take place and postponed property sales can be completed NORTHERN IRELAND 29 July: Seated venues such as bingo halls can reopen 7 August: Leisure centres can reopen, as can indoor sports courts and skating rinks 28 August: Socially-distanced spectators will be able to return to indoor events Open-air museums will open in late August What you can already do: Go to hair salons, barbers, nail bars, tattoo shops and reflexology Playgrounds and libraries have reopened, and competitive sport has returned Gyms have been open since 10 July Caravan parks, campsites and self-contained tourist accommodation have been allowed to open since 26 June Places of worship have been open since 29 June, and are already available for private prayer, while drive-in church services and cinemas are also allowed Elite athletes have been able to use indoor training facilities from 29 June Pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, cafes, coffee shops and betting shops have been allowed to reopen from 3 July Indoor pubs and bars opening have to primarily function as restaurants and offer substantial meals with table service Visitor attractions barring museums and galleries can also reopen from 3 July Groups of up to six people who do not share a household are allowed to meet outdoors two metres apart Garden and recycling centres have reopened Non-contact outdoor activities are allowed, including fishing, golf, tennis and some water sports No restrictions on private travel, as long as it is in Northern Ireland Use face coverings if you cannot social distance
Image: A barbershop on Belfast's Lisburn Road
Image: A car crosses the border between England and Wales


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: Scientists grow mini organs to see how COVID-19 attacks the body

Scientists are growing miniature organs to see how the coronavirus attacks the body .
These organoids based on lung , liver , kidney and intestine tissues reveal in a laboratory setting how the SARS-CoV-2 virus affects cells and causes so much damage .
According to an article in the journal Nature , they are crucially offering researchers an invaluable opportunity to experiment with medicines which could be effective against COVID-19 .
Although researchers know how devastating the coronavirus can be to the body 's organs , it 's unclear whether some of this damage is caused by the virus directly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Unlike cultured cells on a dish , organoids `` resemble the true morphology of tissues , '' said Thomas Efferth , a cell biologist at Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz , in Germany .
This makes them much better for studying what happens to the body , while also being much cheaper and less ethically challenging than animal studies .
But because these organoids are n't connected to each other the way organs in a body are , the research would likely eventually need to progress to animal trials .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key insights organoids are providing is regarding cells in the respiratory system , from the upper airway to the lungs .
Scientists at Kyoto University in Japan have developed bronchial organoids which feature four different cell types from the bronchus - which conducts air into the lungs - and are learning which of these cells the virus attacks best .
Another study at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City has shown the virus is particularly deadly because it causes something called a cytokine storm , a snowballing immune system response which has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a kind of pus made of dead cells .
But Shuibing Chen , who is a stem cell biologist at Weill Cornell Medicine , told Nature that the cause of the lung cell death is still a mystery .
`` We know the cells die but we do n't know how , '' said Dr Chen , who creates organoids not from frozen adult cells as at Kyoto University , but from pluripotent stem cells .
These stem cells are able to develop into any kind of cell type in the body , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the organoids grown in this way are less mature , so may not accurately represent adult tissue .
Studies on other miniature organs are ongoing , but the area of organoid research is still in its infancy .

Scientists are growing miniature organs to see how the coronavirus attacks the body.
These organoids based on lung, liver, kidney and intestine tissues reveal in a laboratory setting how the SARS-CoV-2 virus affects cells and causes so much damage.
According to an article in the journal Nature, they are crucially offering researchers an invaluable opportunity to experiment with medicines which could be effective against COVID-19.
Image: COVID-19 in the lungs. Pic: George Washington University Hospital
Although researchers know how devastating the coronavirus can be to the body's organs, it's unclear whether some of this damage is caused by the virus directly or by the immune response it triggers.
Unlike cultured cells on a dish, organoids "resemble the true morphology of tissues," said Thomas Efferth, a cell biologist at Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, in Germany.
This makes them much better for studying what happens to the body, while also being much cheaper and less ethically challenging than animal studies.
But because these organoids aren't connected to each other the way organs in a body are, the research would likely eventually need to progress to animal trials.
According to the Nature article, one of the key insights organoids are providing is regarding cells in the respiratory system, from the upper airway to the lungs.
Scientists at Kyoto University in Japan have developed bronchial organoids which feature four different cell types from the bronchus - which conducts air into the lungs - and are learning which of these cells the virus attacks best.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:01 'Coronavirus is still accelerating globally'
Another study at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City has shown the virus is particularly deadly because it causes something called a cytokine storm, a snowballing immune system response which has been seen to fill the lungs with a kind of pus made of dead cells.
But Shuibing Chen, who is a stem cell biologist at Weill Cornell Medicine, told Nature that the cause of the lung cell death is still a mystery.
"We know the cells die but we don't know how," said Dr Chen, who creates organoids not from frozen adult cells as at Kyoto University, but from pluripotent stem cells.
These stem cells are able to develop into any kind of cell type in the body, but they could also pose a challenge as the organoids grown in this way are less mature, so may not accurately represent adult tissue.
Studies on other miniature organs are ongoing, but the area of organoid research is still in its infancy.


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: How pubs will operate when they emerge from the COVID-19 lockdown

Pubs have been given the green light to reopen on 4 July , but post-lockdown pints may be served behind Perspex screens after ordering via a phone app .
Setting out the latest easing of the coronavirus lockdown , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said `` our long , national hibernation is coming to an end '' and `` life is returning to our streets '' .
Wetherspoons , Greene King and McMullen have already outlined how their venues could look when they reopen in England next month , but others - including independent pubs - are still awaiting government guidance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made plans .
Sky News looks at what pub-goers can expect under the `` new normal '' .
Many pubs will be operating a pre-booking system to control the amount of customers they let in , which could mean supermarket-style queues .
Brewer Greene King said it will be introducing a `` pub host '' to manage queues and greet customers from one metre away before showing them to their tables .
Wetherspoons and Greene King said their customers will be encouraged to use phone apps to order and pay for drinks to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Perspex screens , hand sanitisers and floor stickers indicating a one-way system for moving around the pub will also be fitted around the bars , both chains have said .
Pubs will be spacing tables at least one metre apart to adhere to the government 's new social distancing measures .
McMullen has said some tables at its pubs will be out of use to provide additional space , while its opening times and menus will be `` slightly reduced '' .
Some pubs have said they will be handing customers disposable menus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put forward to ministers suggesting that all customers should be served individually-wrapped sauces and condiments rather than sharing bottles .
Greene King said its customers will be asked to flip `` one in , one out '' red and green indicators at the entrance to toilets with their elbow as they enter and leave .
The chain added that cleaners will be refreshing toilets every 15 minutes and that a `` pub safe monitor '' will be cleaning surfaces and tables .
Wetherspoons workers will be undergoing temperature checks and filling in health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ servers could also be wearing masks , gloves and eye protection .
And when they serve drinks , they will only touch the bottom of the glass to avoid transmission .
McMullen joint managing director Heydon Mizon said their staff will also be taking `` daily team health checks '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The government has not yet said whether there will be a limit on the number of drinks one person can buy .
Wetherspoons said its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsibly '' - but hinted there would be no limit on the number of orders a customer can make .
`` Before lockdown , you could n't order three pints for yourself at one time and that will be the case now , '' a spokesman said .
McMullen , which owns more than 130 pubs across the UK , said it will also `` operate as usual '' .

Pubs have been given the green light to reopen on 4 July, but post-lockdown pints may be served behind Perspex screens after ordering via a phone app.
Setting out the latest easing of the coronavirus lockdown, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said "our long, national hibernation is coming to an end" and "life is returning to our streets".
Wetherspoons, Greene King and McMullen have already outlined how their venues could look when they reopen in England next month, but others - including independent pubs - are still awaiting government guidance to reopen safely and have not yet made plans.
Sky News looks at what pub-goers can expect under the "new normal".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 16:02 In full: PM statement on easing of lockdown
Booking and queuing
Many pubs will be operating a pre-booking system to control the amount of customers they let in, which could mean supermarket-style queues.
Brewer Greene King said it will be introducing a "pub host" to manage queues and greet customers from one metre away before showing them to their tables.
Image: Customers may have to queue before entering a pub
Ordering via app
Wetherspoons and Greene King said their customers will be encouraged to use phone apps to order and pay for drinks to avoid people congregating at the bar.
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Perspex screens, hand sanitisers and floor stickers indicating a one-way system for moving around the pub will also be fitted around the bars, both chains have said.
Image: Bartenders will wear face masks when serving drinks
Socially distanced dining
Pubs will be spacing tables at least one metre apart to adhere to the government's new social distancing measures.
McMullen has said some tables at its pubs will be out of use to provide additional space, while its opening times and menus will be "slightly reduced".
Some pubs have said they will be handing customers disposable menus.
Meanwhile, proposals have also been put forward to ministers suggesting that all customers should be served individually-wrapped sauces and condiments rather than sharing bottles.
Image: Cleaners will be on hand in many pubs
Traffic light toilets
Greene King said its customers will be asked to flip "one in, one out" red and green indicators at the entrance to toilets with their elbow as they enter and leave.
The chain added that cleaners will be refreshing toilets every 15 minutes and that a "pub safe monitor" will be cleaning surfaces and tables.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Rural pubs 'may struggle' with reopening app
Staff health checks
Wetherspoons workers will be undergoing temperature checks and filling in health questionnaires before each shift.
Bartenders and servers could also be wearing masks, gloves and eye protection.
And when they serve drinks, they will only touch the bottom of the glass to avoid transmission.
McMullen joint managing director Heydon Mizon said their staff will also be taking "daily team health checks".
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Final orders?
The government has not yet said whether there will be a limit on the number of drinks one person can buy.
Wetherspoons said its staff will ensure "customers are served responsibly" - but hinted there would be no limit on the number of orders a customer can make.
"Before lockdown, you couldn't order three pints for yourself at one time and that will be the case now," a spokesman said.
McMullen, which owns more than 130 pubs across the UK, said it will also "operate as usual".


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: German county forced back into lockdown after outbreak at abattoir

A county in Germany 's most populous state has been placed back into lockdown after a coronavirus outbreak at a slaughterhouse .
More than 1,500 people from the Toennies plant in Guetersloh county tested positive for COVID-19 .
The abattoir previously said it had stopped slaughtering on Wednesday and was shutting down in stages .
Armin Laschet , governor of the North Rhine-Westphalia region which contains Cologne and Dusseldorf , said residents in Guetersloh county should only have contact with their own household , or one person from outside .
He added cinemas , bars and gyms would shut in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but restaurants could continue to serve people from the same household .
Schools and childcare centres were closed last week as a result of the initial outbreak .
The localised lockdown comes after the country 's R number rocketed to 2.88 , meaning the virus is thought to be spreading exponentially .
The governor said the new measures would be lifted on 30 June if the situation improves , but did not give any detail on how success would be measured .
Germany 's health ministry , the Robert Koch Institute , has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coming weeks , adding that despite restrictions being lifted across the country , the virus is still circulating and a second wave could be possible .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Germany has been widely praised for its response to the coronavirus pandemic , after implementing testing , tracing and hospital preparation measures .
The reported number of deaths related to COVID-19 in Germany stands at 8,909 - almost five times lower than the UK .

A county in Germany's most populous state has been placed back into lockdown after a coronavirus outbreak at a slaughterhouse.
More than 1,500 people from the Toennies plant in Guetersloh county tested positive for COVID-19.
The abattoir previously said it had stopped slaughtering on Wednesday and was shutting down in stages.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:54 Germany: Rise in virus numbers 'linked to meat industry'
Armin Laschet, governor of the North Rhine-Westphalia region which contains Cologne and Dusseldorf, said residents in Guetersloh county should only have contact with their own household, or one person from outside.
He added cinemas, bars and gyms would shut in an effort to contain the outbreak, but restaurants could continue to serve people from the same household.
Schools and childcare centres were closed last week as a result of the initial outbreak.
The localised lockdown comes after the country's R number rocketed to 2.88, meaning the virus is thought to be spreading exponentially.
The governor said the new measures would be lifted on 30 June if the situation improves, but did not give any detail on how success would be measured.
Germany's health ministry, the Robert Koch Institute, has warned the country to stay vigilant in the coming weeks, adding that despite restrictions being lifted across the country, the virus is still circulating and a second wave could be possible.
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Germany has been widely praised for its response to the coronavirus pandemic, after implementing testing, tracing and hospital preparation measures.
The reported number of deaths related to COVID-19 in Germany stands at 8,909 - almost five times lower than the UK.


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: Scientific advisers admit concerns as Boris Johnson eases lockdown

Evidence of a split between Boris Johnson and his most senior scientific and medical advisers was laid bare within hours of his announcement of measures to ease the lockdown .
Speaking at the final daily Downing Street coronavirus news conference , Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty warned of potential risks in axing the two-metre social distancing rule .
Sir Patrick , the government 's chief scientific adviser , said the prime minister 's approach to easing the lockdown was `` reasonable '' , although there were risks attached .
`` It is not risk free , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk free .
Every time you take a step to open up there is some associated risk with that . ''
Professor Whitty , England 's chief medical officer , said the package of measures to ease the lockdown was a `` reasonable balance of risk '' , but `` absolutely not risk free '' .
`` We may at some point say that a particular bit of the decisions that were taken is too much of a risk with the benefit of hindsight and we have to go back on it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's decision to re-open pubs , restaurants , hairdressers and other businesses , the prime minister said he took responsibility for the decision to ease the lockdown .
`` Of course , I take responsibility , the government takes responsibility for these decisions , '' he said .
`` We are indebted to our scientific colleagues for their advice continually , but it is our responsibility to choose . ''
But Mr Johnson admitted he was aware that Professor Whitty had concerns about the lockdown being lifted for pubs , bars and restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I hope it will be a great day , '' said Mr Johnson .
`` But obviously , you know , people have got to make sure they do n't overdo it .
`` I know Chris is particularly worried about this - we ca n't have great writhing scenes in the beer gardens when the virus could be passed on .
`` This has to be done in a sensible way - people should be giving their names to the pubs , to the restaurants , doing things in a way that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to track back , to test and trace and stamp out any outbreak .
`` That 's the absolutely crucial thing .
People should of course enjoy themselves but as Chris and Patrick have said , this is going to be with us for a while .
`` We 've just got to adjust and make it work . ''
The warnings from the two scientific chiefs suggest they are determined to distance themselves from any moves by the government on easing the lockdown that they regard as premature or reckless .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ tension between senior ministers and advisers , with the scientists adopting a much more cautious and guarded tone at Downing Street news conferences .
And on occasions the absence of top advisers alongside ministers at some No 10 briefings has led to claims that ministers feared being contradicted by scientists in full view of the TV cameras .
There have also been allegations from some in the scientific and medical communities that ministers have been too impatient in easing lockdown measures and have put fears over the economy above saving lives .
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now - Sir Patrick said although the epidemic continued to shrink - `` albeit slowly '' - by between 2 % and 4 % a day , the numbers were `` flattening off '' rather than going down to zero .
And he warned : `` Do n't be fooled that this means it has gone away .
The disease is growing across the world .
It is coming down in the UK but it has n't gone away . ''
He said : `` You need to be prepared where there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and if they become beyond local then you need to deal with them at regional and national levels which would mean reversal of some of the measures .
`` That is the only way you can keep on top of this . ''
Professor Whitty said there was a risk coronavirus could start to increase in its spread if restrictions involved with the new `` one metre-plus '' rules were not followed .
`` A lot of the changes are about emphasising things that we can do and it is really critical that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
`` Because if we do n't take them seriously then chains of transmission between households will be re-established . ''
He added : `` To be really clear , it is absolutely critical that every individual , every household and every firm takes these precautions seriously .
If that does not happen , we will go back to a situation where transmission starts to rise again .
`` If people hear a distorted version of what 's being said , that says 'this is all fine now , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behaving in ways that they normally would have before this virus happened , yes , we will get an uptick for sure .
`` It is absolutely critical people stick to the guidance that has been given - it 's a changed guidance for there are still very significant restrictions socially and there are very significant restrictions on business of different sorts . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker On fears of an upturn in COVID-19 , Professor Whitty said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is local outbreaks to deal with them locally and if they become beyond local then you need to deal with them at regional and national levels which would mean reversal of some of the measures .
`` That is the only way you can keep on top of this . ''
He also predicted that the country could have to cope with the virus into 2021 .
`` I would be surprised and delighted if we were n't in this current situation through the winter and into next spring , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's regroup and work out where we are .
`` I expect there to be a significant amount of coronavirus circulating at least into that time and I think it is going to be quite optimistic that for science to come fully to the rescue over that kind of timeframe .
`` But I have an absolute confidence in the capacity of science to overcome infectious diseases - it has done that repeatedly and it will do that for this virus , whether that is by drugs , vaccines or indeed other things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For medium to long term , I 'm optimistic .
But for the short to medium term , until this time next year , certainly I think we should be planning for this for what I consider to be the long haul into 2021 . ''

In the last Downing Street briefing, Boris Johnson admits England's chief medical officer is worried about pubs reopening.
Evidence of a split between Boris Johnson and his most senior scientific and medical advisers was laid bare within hours of his announcement of measures to ease the lockdown.
Speaking at the final daily Downing Street coronavirus news conference, Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty warned of potential risks in axing the two-metre social distancing rule.
Sir Patrick, the government's chief scientific adviser, said the prime minister's approach to easing the lockdown was "reasonable", although there were risks attached.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:32 Whitty sees current situation going into next year
"It is not risk free," he said.
"It cannot be risk free. Every time you take a step to open up there is some associated risk with that."
Professor Whitty, England's chief medical officer, said the package of measures to ease the lockdown was a "reasonable balance of risk", but "absolutely not risk free".
"We may at some point say that a particular bit of the decisions that were taken is too much of a risk with the benefit of hindsight and we have to go back on it," he warned.
Defending the government's decision to re-open pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and other businesses, the prime minister said he took responsibility for the decision to ease the lockdown.
"Of course, I take responsibility, the government takes responsibility for these decisions," he said. "We are indebted to our scientific colleagues for their advice continually, but it is our responsibility to choose."
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Image: Pubs and bars will be able to reopen with 'COVID secure' measures in place
But Mr Johnson admitted he was aware that Professor Whitty had concerns about the lockdown being lifted for pubs, bars and restaurants.
"As for July 4, I hope it will be a great day," said Mr Johnson.
"But obviously, you know, people have got to make sure they don't overdo it.
"I know Chris is particularly worried about this - we can't have great writhing scenes in the beer gardens when the virus could be passed on.
"This has to be done in a sensible way - people should be giving their names to the pubs, to the restaurants, doing things in a way that allows us, if something does happen, to track back, to test and trace and stamp out any outbreak.
"That's the absolutely crucial thing. People should of course enjoy themselves but as Chris and Patrick have said, this is going to be with us for a while.
"We've just got to adjust and make it work."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:35 PM lists establishments that can reopen
The warnings from the two scientific chiefs suggest they are determined to distance themselves from any moves by the government on easing the lockdown that they regard as premature or reckless.
In recent weeks there has been apparent tension between senior ministers and advisers, with the scientists adopting a much more cautious and guarded tone at Downing Street news conferences.
And on occasions the absence of top advisers alongside ministers at some No 10 briefings has led to claims that ministers feared being contradicted by scientists in full view of the TV cameras.
There have also been allegations from some in the scientific and medical communities that ministers have been too impatient in easing lockdown measures and have put fears over the economy above saving lives.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 PM explains 'one metre plus' rule
At his final No 10 appearance - for now - Sir Patrick said although the epidemic continued to shrink - "albeit slowly" - by between 2% and 4% a day, the numbers were "flattening off" rather than going down to zero.
And he warned: "Don't be fooled that this means it has gone away. The disease is growing across the world. It is coming down in the UK but it hasn't gone away."
He said: "You need to be prepared where there is local outbreaks to deal with them locally and if they become beyond local then you need to deal with them at regional and national levels which would mean reversal of some of the measures.
"That is the only way you can keep on top of this."
Image: Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty have become familiar to millions in recent months
Professor Whitty said there was a risk coronavirus could start to increase in its spread if restrictions involved with the new "one metre-plus" rules were not followed.
"A lot of the changes are about emphasising things that we can do and it is really critical that individuals and firms take these really seriously," he said. "Because if we don't take them seriously then chains of transmission between households will be re-established."
He added: "To be really clear, it is absolutely critical that every individual, every household and every firm takes these precautions seriously. If that does not happen, we will go back to a situation where transmission starts to rise again.
"If people hear a distorted version of what's being said, that says 'this is all fine now, it's gone away' and start behaving in ways that they normally would have before this virus happened, yes, we will get an uptick for sure.
"It is absolutely critical people stick to the guidance that has been given - it's a changed guidance for there are still very significant restrictions socially and there are very significant restrictions on business of different sorts."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
On fears of an upturn in COVID-19, Professor Whitty said: "You need to be prepared where there is local outbreaks to deal with them locally and if they become beyond local then you need to deal with them at regional and national levels which would mean reversal of some of the measures.
"That is the only way you can keep on top of this."
He also predicted that the country could have to cope with the virus into 2021.
Image: Countries like Italy have provided some idea of how hairdressers may operate in the UK from 4 July
"I would be surprised and delighted if we weren't in this current situation through the winter and into next spring," he said.
"I think then let's regroup and work out where we are.
"I expect there to be a significant amount of coronavirus circulating at least into that time and I think it is going to be quite optimistic that for science to come fully to the rescue over that kind of timeframe.
"But I have an absolute confidence in the capacity of science to overcome infectious diseases - it has done that repeatedly and it will do that for this virus, whether that is by drugs, vaccines or indeed other things that may come into play.
"For medium to long term, I'm optimistic. But for the short to medium term, until this time next year, certainly I think we should be planning for this for what I consider to be the long haul into 2021."


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: Men produce more COVID-19 antibodies than women, NHS figures suggest

Men appear to produce much higher levels of antibodies to COVID-19 when infected with the disease , figures from the NHS suggest .
NHS Blood and Transplant ( NHSBT ) is currently seeking survivors to donate blood plasma as part of a trial to see if transfusions of convalescent plasma can help some of the sickest patients who are struggling to develop their own immune response .
The new figures show that 43 % of male donors had plasma rich enough in antibodies for their plasma to be included in the trial , compared with 29 % of women .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood donation at NHSBT , said : `` We 'd still like to hear from anybody who had coronavirus or the symptoms .
More plasma donors are needed .
`` But we 'd especially want to hear from men .
We test every plasma donation and men have higher antibody levels , which means we 're more likely to be able to use their plasma to save lives .
`` Initially your immune system will try and fight off a virus with white blood cells .
If you become more ill , your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that neutralise or kill the virus .
`` Our studies , and many others around the world , show men with COVID-19 are more likely to become seriously ill than women .
This makes them better plasma donors once they have recovered . ''
Last week it was announced that anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 through the national testing programme will be asked to join a blood plasma trial .
NHSBT said people confirmed with the virus through the `` pillar 2 '' national testing programme will receive a text message 21 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are willing to donate plasma .
If the trial is successful , being treated with convalescent plasma could become a widespread practice in hospitals .

Men appear to produce much higher levels of antibodies to COVID-19 when infected with the disease, figures from the NHS suggest.
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is currently seeking survivors to donate blood plasma as part of a trial to see if transfusions of convalescent plasma can help some of the sickest patients who are struggling to develop their own immune response.
The new figures show that 43% of male donors had plasma rich enough in antibodies for their plasma to be included in the trial, compared with 29% of women.
Professor David Roberts, associate director for blood donation at NHSBT, said: "We'd still like to hear from anybody who had coronavirus or the symptoms. More plasma donors are needed.
"But we'd especially want to hear from men. We test every plasma donation and men have higher antibody levels, which means we're more likely to be able to use their plasma to save lives.
"Initially your immune system will try and fight off a virus with white blood cells. If you become more ill, your immune system needs to produce more antibodies that neutralise or kill the virus.
"Our studies, and many others around the world, show men with COVID-19 are more likely to become seriously ill than women. This makes them better plasma donors once they have recovered."
Last week it was announced that anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 through the national testing programme will be asked to join a blood plasma trial.
NHSBT said people confirmed with the virus through the "pillar 2" national testing programme will receive a text message 21 days after their result to see whether they are willing to donate plasma.
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If the trial is successful, being treated with convalescent plasma could become a widespread practice in hospitals.


news--2020-06-23--Coronavirus: Joy in Downing Street at handling of pandemic is predicated on one big bet

Coronavirus : Joy in Downing Street at handling of pandemic is predicated on one big bet Coronavirus : Joy in Downing Street at handling of pandemic is predicated on one big bet PM Boris Johnson is planning speeches about jobs and the economy There is a lot to cheer about right now in 10 Downing Street .
The government has managed to stick to its timetable - devised two months ago - for lifting lockdown , almost incredibly having the overt assent of the Labour Party to today 's plan .
The governments of Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown , meaning more misery for voters there , with devolved administrations now having to potentially play catch up with Westminster in the coming weeks .
Coronavirus is undoubtedly in abeyance , according to almost every measurement .
Furthermore according to YouGov tonight a plurality of voters agreeing with Boris Johnson 's judgement around lockdown lifting measures - unlike last time .
Also the daily news conferences , once a necessity born of crisis but now a millstone around ministers ' neck , are gone for good .
Plus an opportunity to reshape @ @ @ @ @ @ @ internal Whitehall critics , all under the cover of coronavirus as well as Brexit .
There 's more to cheer about .
There is no internal Tory opposition of note - no leader for those Conservative rebels that occasionally mutter in private - and an 80 strong majority going nowhere .
Meanwhile Keir Starmer is facing questions from his left wing demanding to know why he 's backing the government tonight : Jeremy Corbyn 's support base has not completely disappeared .
And the cherry on the cake is that the prime minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wedding ceremony soon after 4 July - even if curiously Mr Johnson did not include this in the top three aims for the coming week .
From Dominic Cummings 's point of view , what 's not to like ?
All of this predicated on one massive bet by Mr Johnson 's government : that COVID-19 is not returning to the UK in a big way .
You only had to look at the tone and body language of the two scientists who have guided the nation over the last three months to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confident as their political master on this critical question .
Consider this by England 's chief medical officer at the final daily briefing .
Chris Whitty said : `` I would be surprised and delighted if we were n't in this current situation through the winter and into next spring .
I think then , let 's regroup and work out where we are .
`` I expect there to be a significant amount of coronavirus circulating at least into that time , and I think it is going to be quite optimistic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rescue over that kind of timeframe .
`` But I have an absolute confidence in the capacity of science to overcome infectious diseases - it has done that repeatedly and it will do that for this virus , whether that is by drugs , vaccines or indeed other things that may come into play .
`` But for the short-to-medium term , until this time next year , certainly I think we should be planning for this , for what I consider to be the long haul into 2021 . ''
Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , just days after telling me that there was little to no chance of a national level lockdown in the event of another coronavirus spike , because the government has honed the `` whackamole '' approach of local lockdown measures .
The Treasury would struggle to pay for another furlough scheme , while the public appetite for a second lockdown is limited .
Mr Johnson is going to adopt an optimistic tone in the coming days , with speeches about jobs , and plans to rejuvenate the economy .
The nation needs to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our feet .
But so to does the virus that continues to catch the world by surprise .
Lets just hope someone has read them the Downing Street script .

Sky News' Sam Coates says that from Dominic Cummings' point of view, what's not to like?
Coronavirus: Joy in Downing Street at handling of pandemic is predicated on one big bet
PM Boris Johnson is planning speeches about jobs and the economy
There is a lot to cheer about right now in 10 Downing Street.
The government has managed to stick to its timetable - devised two months ago - for lifting lockdown, almost incredibly having the overt assent of the Labour Party to today's plan.
The governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are all remaining under stronger forms of lockdown, meaning more misery for voters there, with devolved administrations now having to potentially play catch up with Westminster in the coming weeks.
Image: Lockdown restrictions are being loosened in England
Coronavirus is undoubtedly in abeyance, according to almost every measurement.
Furthermore according to YouGov tonight a plurality of voters agreeing with Boris Johnson's judgement around lockdown lifting measures - unlike last time.
Image: Coronavirus is in abeyance in the UK
Also the daily news conferences, once a necessity born of crisis but now a millstone around ministers' neck, are gone for good.
Plus an opportunity to reshape Britain, and more importantly take out internal Whitehall critics, all under the cover of coronavirus as well as Brexit.
There's more to cheer about.
There is no internal Tory opposition of note - no leader for those Conservative rebels that occasionally mutter in private - and an 80 strong majority going nowhere.
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Meanwhile Keir Starmer is facing questions from his left wing demanding to know why he's backing the government tonight: Jeremy Corbyn's support base has not completely disappeared.
And the cherry on the cake is that the prime minister is now able to legally hold his wedding ceremony soon after 4 July - even if curiously Mr Johnson did not include this in the top three aims for the coming week.
From Dominic Cummings's point of view, what's not to like?
All of this predicated on one massive bet by Mr Johnson's government: that COVID-19 is not returning to the UK in a big way.
You only had to look at the tone and body language of the two scientists who have guided the nation over the last three months to know that they are are not as confident as their political master on this critical question.
Consider this by England's chief medical officer at the final daily briefing.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:32 Whitty sees current situation going into next year
Chris Whitty said: "I would be surprised and delighted if we weren't in this current situation through the winter and into next spring. I think then, let's regroup and work out where we are.
"I expect there to be a significant amount of coronavirus circulating at least into that time, and I think it is going to be quite optimistic for science to come fully to the rescue over that kind of timeframe.
"But I have an absolute confidence in the capacity of science to overcome infectious diseases - it has done that repeatedly and it will do that for this virus, whether that is by drugs, vaccines or indeed other things that may come into play.
"For the medium-to-long term, I'm optimistic.
"But for the short-to-medium term, until this time next year, certainly I think we should be planning for this, for what I consider to be the long haul into 2021."
Image: The virus has seen thousands die around the world
Mr Johnson insisted he was taking a cautious approach, just days after telling me that there was little to no chance of a national level lockdown in the event of another coronavirus spike, because the government has honed the "whackamole" approach of local lockdown measures.
The Treasury would struggle to pay for another furlough scheme, while the public appetite for a second lockdown is limited.
Mr Johnson is going to adopt an optimistic tone in the coming days, with speeches about jobs, and plans to rejuvenate the economy.
The nation needs to play its part in getting back on our feet. But so to does the virus that continues to catch the world by surprise. Lets just hope someone has read them the Downing Street script.