bbc--2020-09-26--'Hamilton needs to draw on all his talent to reach 91 wins in Russia'

Lewis Hamilton starts the race in which he could equal the all-time record for grand prix victories from pole position on Sunday - but that 91st win is very far from the near certainty it might be in other circumstances .
First , track position .
Pole gives Hamilton a seven-metre advantage over Max Verstappen 's Red Bull in second place .
But the run from the grid down to the first corner at Sochi is the longest on the calendar and the slipstream effect is huge .
In 2017 , Hamilton 's team-mate Valtteri Bottas used this from his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past the two Ferraris in front of him and into a lead he was never to lose on the way to his maiden victory .
Last year , when Ferrari 's Charles Leclerc was on pole , ahead of Hamilton , Ferrari used team tactics to ensure Leclerc allowed his team-mate - Sebastian Vettel , who started third - to tow past him into the lead , so they ran one and two ahead of Hamilton .
That led to a big falling out at Ferrari , but that 's another story .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about being passed down the straight after the start by at least one of Verstappen and Bottas , who is third on the grid .
`` It 's not a good place to start at all , '' he said .
`` And this year our cars are more draggy and there is more tow than we have seen in other years .
I genuinely expect one of these two to come flying by at some point . ''
• None How the qualifying for the Russian GP unfolded Hamilton has some defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the soft tyres , which give the best grip off the line , while Verstappen and Bottas have the mediums .
Whether that is enough to offset the effect of the tow remains to be seen , but even if it is , Hamilton 's problems will be far from over , because the soft tyre is very much not the best on which to start the race .
It wears too quickly .
Even if he maintains the lead at the start , Hamilton will have to fend off Bottas and Verstappen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy with such a long straight .
`` I am on the worst tyre , '' Hamilton said .
`` It is a good tyre to do an actual start , but it has the biggest degradation - 10 times more than any other tyre , I think it is - so that 's going to be a struggle .
`` I do n't know if that puts me on to a two-stop [ strategy ] .
Unlikely , because the pit lane is too slow so I am just going to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I can . ''
If he can hang on , and Mercedes ' strategists can find a window of clear air into which he can exit after his pit stop , he might still be OK .
But the team do not sound that optimistic .
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said : `` It is not the optimum strategy because after some laps the soft is clearly going to suffer and that means it compromises your whole race because you probably need to pit into traffic and that is not a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best overtaker in the field and I hope he can make his way back because he was the quickest driver on track today . ''
How did Hamilton get in this position ?
The quickest driver Hamilton certainly was - he took pole by more than 0.5 seconds and Bottas was 0.652secs adrift , and admitted he did not know why .
But the session was anything but smooth sailing for Hamilton .
In fact , there were dramas from the off .
In the first knockout session , Hamilton ran wide on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the de facto first corner - and failed to comply with guidelines about how to rejoin the track .
That meant he had to do a second lap to make it into the next session - and led to a stewards ' inquiry , though no further action was taken .
Then , in the second session , which defines the start tyres , Hamilton went out on the favoured mediums and set a blistering first lap , 0.4secs quicker than Bottas .
However , that time was deleted because he had run @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and exceeded track limits .
He wanted to do another lap straight away and had an argument with the team when they called him in to the pits instead .
Wolff said they had no choice - he did not have enough fuel in the car to stay out .
There was still plenty of time for another lap on the medium tyres at the end of the session , and Hamilton was about three corners from the end of one that would have put him fastest when Vettel crashed at Turn Four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now , there was jeopardy .
There were only two minutes 15 seconds left in the session .
In theory , there was still time to do an out lap and start a flying lap before the chequered flag ended the session , but now Hamilton had another problem .
Time was tight , so there was going to be a rush to get out .
Other cars lined up at the end of the pit lane and waited in a queue , with their engines switched off .
Hamilton could not do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be restarted by the driver using electrical energy from the hybrid system , whereas those of the other three manufacturers can .
So Mercedes sent him out only when they knew there was sufficiently little time left before the restart for him to sit in a queue with the engine idling without damaging it .
But that still meant waiting a couple of minutes - and that meant the engineers insisted he switched to the soft tyres .
Hamilton wanted the mediums again , but they overruled him because they were concerned the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while he waited in the queue and that he would never be able to warm them up again .
Even on the softs , he still nearly lost it at the first corner before gathering it up again after driving through the run-off area .
The out lap that followed was a tense one .
Knowing he was tight on time , Hamilton asked halfway around it how he was doing for time and was told he was 20 seconds behind schedule .
He picked up the pace and forced his way past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Carlos Sainz before the last two corners .
He was then blocked by a Renault into the final turn .
As Hamilton backed off to give himself some space , engineer Peter Bonnington came over the radio , his voice urgent : `` Need to go , need to go , need to go . ''
Hamilton floored it and crossed the line with a second to spare .
Can he do it ?
Hamilton spent the eight-minute break between the sessions clearing his mind of the stress and composing himself again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down and find my centre , you know , calm my heart down and wanting to deliver in Q3 , '' he said .
`` I was adamant .
I had no choice .
I had to deliver on those two laps .
Valtteri had been doing great all weekend .
Nothing new in that respect , but I knew I needed to have a perfect lap , particularly on the first run , to get the pole .
`` Obviously pole position is not great here ; it never has been .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ we do .
`` The first lap was really great .
I thought it was going to be very difficult to improve on it , but I think I managed to improve just a tiny bit , I think , on the second lap .
`` I 'm super grateful to everyone for just about keeping their cool .
And it could be a lot , lot worse .
I could be out of the top 10 , so I 'm really grateful I got to compete . ''
Having dragged himself out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making on Saturday , Hamilton now somehow has to find a way to do it again in the race .
`` I am just going to focus on my race and try to run the fastest race I can , '' Hamilton said .
`` If these guys get by they are going to be pulling away , so I am going to sit down and work out if there is a different kind of race I can do to keep my position . ''
The record he will not be bothered about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he has so often said , he is not one for numbers , and as he pointed out on Thursday : `` It will happen at some stage .
I 'm not quitting any time soon . ''
But he still wants the win , for the sake of it - because that 's why he 's there and because it would be another giant step on the way to equalling another Schumacher record : seven World Championships .
• None Has it gone too far ?

The Russian Grand Prix is on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra from 12:00 BST
Lewis Hamilton starts the race in which he could equal the all-time record for grand prix victories from pole position on Sunday - but that 91st win is very far from the near certainty it might be in other circumstances.
After a dramatic qualifying session at the Russian Grand Prix, in which the Mercedes driver nearly ended up 15th after a combination of mistakes and bad luck, Hamilton has two major concerns going into the race - the tyres he is on, and the fact pole might be more of a handicap than an advantage.
First, track position. Pole gives Hamilton a seven-metre advantage over Max Verstappen's Red Bull in second place. But the run from the grid down to the first corner at Sochi is the longest on the calendar and the slipstream effect is huge.
In 2017, Hamilton's team-mate Valtteri Bottas used this from his third place on the grid to tow past the two Ferraris in front of him and into a lead he was never to lose on the way to his maiden victory.
Last year, when Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was on pole, ahead of Hamilton, Ferrari used team tactics to ensure Leclerc allowed his team-mate - Sebastian Vettel, who started third - to tow past him into the lead, so they ran one and two ahead of Hamilton. That led to a big falling out at Ferrari, but that's another story.
Inevitably, then, Hamilton is worried about being passed down the straight after the start by at least one of Verstappen and Bottas, who is third on the grid.
"It's not a good place to start at all," he said. "And this year our cars are more draggy and there is more tow than we have seen in other years. I genuinely expect one of these two to come flying by at some point."
Hamilton has some defence against this because he is starting on the soft tyres, which give the best grip off the line, while Verstappen and Bottas have the mediums.
Whether that is enough to offset the effect of the tow remains to be seen, but even if it is, Hamilton's problems will be far from over, because the soft tyre is very much not the best on which to start the race. It wears too quickly.
Even if he maintains the lead at the start, Hamilton will have to fend off Bottas and Verstappen as long as he can - not easy with such a long straight.
"I am on the worst tyre," Hamilton said. "It is a good tyre to do an actual start, but it has the biggest degradation - 10 times more than any other tyre, I think it is - so that's going to be a struggle.
"I don't know if that puts me on to a two-stop [strategy]. Unlikely, because the pit lane is too slow so I am just going to have to nurse those tyres as far as I can."
If he can hang on, and Mercedes' strategists can find a window of clear air into which he can exit after his pit stop, he might still be OK. But the team do not sound that optimistic.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said: "It is not the optimum strategy because after some laps the soft is clearly going to suffer and that means it compromises your whole race because you probably need to pit into traffic and that is not a great situation.
"But Lewis is the best overtaker in the field and I hope he can make his way back because he was the quickest driver on track today."
How did Hamilton get in this position?
Hamilton described the session as "one of the worst qualifyings - it was horrible, heart in mouth the whole way"
The quickest driver Hamilton certainly was - he took pole by more than 0.5 seconds and Bottas was 0.652secs adrift, and admitted he did not know why. But the session was anything but smooth sailing for Hamilton. In fact, there were dramas from the off.
In the first knockout session, Hamilton ran wide on his first lap at Turn Two - the de facto first corner - and failed to comply with guidelines about how to rejoin the track.
That meant he had to do a second lap to make it into the next session - and led to a stewards' inquiry, though no further action was taken.
Then, in the second session, which defines the start tyres, Hamilton went out on the favoured mediums and set a blistering first lap, 0.4secs quicker than Bottas. However, that time was deleted because he had run too wide out of the last corner and exceeded track limits.
He wanted to do another lap straight away and had an argument with the team when they called him in to the pits instead. Wolff said they had no choice - he did not have enough fuel in the car to stay out.
There was still plenty of time for another lap on the medium tyres at the end of the session, and Hamilton was about three corners from the end of one that would have put him fastest when Vettel crashed at Turn Four and brought out the red flag.
Now, there was jeopardy.
There were only two minutes 15 seconds left in the session. In theory, there was still time to do an out lap and start a flying lap before the chequered flag ended the session, but now Hamilton had another problem.
Time was tight, so there was going to be a rush to get out. Other cars lined up at the end of the pit lane and waited in a queue, with their engines switched off. Hamilton could not do that because the Mercedes engine cannot be restarted by the driver using electrical energy from the hybrid system, whereas those of the other three manufacturers can.
So Mercedes sent him out only when they knew there was sufficiently little time left before the restart for him to sit in a queue with the engine idling without damaging it.
But that still meant waiting a couple of minutes - and that meant the engineers insisted he switched to the soft tyres. Hamilton wanted the mediums again, but they overruled him because they were concerned the harder mediums would lose too much heat while he waited in the queue and that he would never be able to warm them up again.
Even on the softs, he still nearly lost it at the first corner before gathering it up again after driving through the run-off area. The out lap that followed was a tense one.
Knowing he was tight on time, Hamilton asked halfway around it how he was doing for time and was told he was 20 seconds behind schedule.
He picked up the pace and forced his way past Racing Point's Sergio Perez and McLaren's Carlos Sainz before the last two corners. He was then blocked by a Renault into the final turn.
As Hamilton backed off to give himself some space, engineer Peter Bonnington came over the radio, his voice urgent: "Need to go, need to go, need to go." Hamilton floored it and crossed the line with a second to spare.
Can he do it?
The omens look good as Hamilton has won four out of the six races held in Sochi since 2014
Hamilton spent the eight-minute break between the sessions clearing his mind of the stress and composing himself again.
"Just having to calm myself down and find my centre, you know, calm my heart down and wanting to deliver in Q3," he said.
"I was adamant. I had no choice. I had to deliver on those two laps. Valtteri had been doing great all weekend. Nothing new in that respect, but I knew I needed to have a perfect lap, particularly on the first run, to get the pole.
"Obviously pole position is not great here; it never has been. Still, going for pole is what we do.
"The first lap was really great. I thought it was going to be very difficult to improve on it, but I think I managed to improve just a tiny bit, I think, on the second lap.
"I'm super grateful to everyone for just about keeping their cool. And it could be a lot, lot worse. I could be out of the top 10, so I'm really grateful I got to compete."
Having dragged himself out of a hole partly of his own making on Saturday, Hamilton now somehow has to find a way to do it again in the race.
"I am just going to focus on my race and try to run the fastest race I can," Hamilton said.
"If these guys get by they are going to be pulling away, so I am going to sit down and work out if there is a different kind of race I can do to keep my position."
The record he will not be bothered about, not of itself anyway. As he has so often said, he is not one for numbers, and as he pointed out on Thursday: "It will happen at some stage. I'm not quitting any time soon."
But he still wants the win, for the sake of it - because that's why he's there and because it would be another giant step on the way to equalling another Schumacher record: seven World Championships.


bbc--2020-09-26--Taylor defends world titles with first-round knockout win

World champion Josh Taylor knocked out Apinun Khongsong in an incredible first round to defend his WBA and IBF light welterweight titles .
Taylor now moves closer to a fight with WBO and WBC title holder Jose Ramirez on his quest to become the undisputed world champion .
`` I felt it [ the punch ] sinking in straight away , '' he told BT Sport .
`` I did n't know it had hurt him to that extent until I saw him on the floor .
`` He [ Khongsong ] was the heaviest puncher I have ever been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weight of his power .
That switched me on to take my time and be patient .
`` It was a great shot but I 'd like to have shown what we 've been working on in the gym .
But you do n't get paid overtime .
I can go and get a pint and a pizza . ''
It took just two minutes and 41 seconds for the contest to be over , with Taylor 's fierce hook to the gut the first real blow landed by the Prestonpans fighter .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but undefeated IBF mandatory challenger who started on the front foot .
Both men came into the bout unscathed after 16 fights , with Khongsong - 13 knockouts to his name - fighting outside of Asia for the first time .
With no partisan crowd there to cheer on Taylor , there was an air of the unknown as to what challenge he would face .
The early exchanges suggested it may be a tricky one .
The man from Bangkok appeared lively , with Taylor forced to be patient as his opponent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it did not take long for the world champion 's moment to arrive .
With his opponent against the ropes , his guard high and a right hook missing its target , the Scot swung a thudding blow to the ribs .
There was little delay as Khongsong slid to the floor .
The response from him was minimal as he writhed on the deck during the count , Taylor standing in the opposite corner , arms stretched out .
And as he should .
His dream fight is now almost within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ truly iconic contest , may well be next .
`` I want Jose Ramirez next , 100 % , '' he added .
`` He 's a very good champion , hungry like myself , on the top of his game .
I want that fight now ; I feel I 've got the beating of him .
`` I 've never ducked anyone , but to be honest I would rather wait until the fans are back , a fight of that magnitude would be better in front of a crowd .
@

Josh Taylor celebrates as Apinun Khongsong fails to rise during the first-round count
World champion Josh Taylor knocked out Apinun Khongsong in an incredible first round to defend his WBA and IBF light welterweight titles.
The Scot, 29, struck the Thailand fighter with a left-hand body shot to send the undefeated 24-year-old crumpling to the canvas. Khongsong was eventually taken by stretcher from ringside in London's York Hall.
Taylor now moves closer to a fight with WBO and WBC title holder Jose Ramirez on his quest to become the undisputed world champion.
"I felt it [the punch] sinking in straight away," he told BT Sport.
"I didn't know it had hurt him to that extent until I saw him on the floor.
"He [Khongsong] was the heaviest puncher I have ever been in with. I could feel the weight of his power. That switched me on to take my time and be patient.
"It was a great shot but I'd like to have shown what we've been working on in the gym. But you don't get paid overtime. I can go and get a pint and a pizza."
It took just two minutes and 41 seconds for the contest to be over, with Taylor's fierce hook to the gut the first real blow landed by the Prestonpans fighter.
Instead, it was the largely unknown but undefeated IBF mandatory challenger who started on the front foot.
Both men came into the bout unscathed after 16 fights, with Khongsong - 13 knockouts to his name - fighting outside of Asia for the first time. With no partisan crowd there to cheer on Taylor, there was an air of the unknown as to what challenge he would face.
The early exchanges suggested it may be a tricky one. The man from Bangkok appeared lively, with Taylor forced to be patient as his opponent attempted to take the initiative. However, it did not take long for the world champion's moment to arrive.
With his opponent against the ropes, his guard high and a right hook missing its target, the Scot swung a thudding blow to the ribs. There was little delay as Khongsong slid to the floor.
The response from him was minimal as he writhed on the deck during the count, Taylor standing in the opposite corner, arms stretched out.
And as he should. His dream fight is now almost within touching distance. Ramirez, and a truly iconic contest, may well be next.
"I want Jose Ramirez next, 100%," he added. "He's a very good champion, hungry like myself, on the top of his game. I want that fight now; I feel I've got the beating of him.
"I've never ducked anyone, but to be honest I would rather wait until the fans are back, a fight of that magnitude would be better in front of a crowd."


bbc--2020-09-26--'Nonsense penalty rule destroying my enjoyment of football' - Hodgson

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Roy Hodgson says the `` nonsense '' handball law that led to a penalty against Joel Ward in Crystal Palace 's 2-1 defeat by Everton is `` ruining the game '' .
Referee Kevin Friend gave the penalty after using his pitch-side monitor .
Richarlison scored from the spot-kick to earn Everton victory .
`` It 's completely unacceptable .
It 's destroying my enjoyment of the game of football , '' said Hodgson .
`` I ca n't understand how everyone in the game - the Premier League , referees , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule to come into operation .
`` I do n't want to profit from it or lose from it . ''
Hodgson also believes the decision to penalise Ward sets a dangerous precedent for the future of the game .
`` I predict what will happen is players will start flicking the ball onto a hand and screaming 'handball ' , '' added the 73-year-old .
`` I do not believe in the rule .
People in football find it hard to accept .
The referee does n't think it is handball either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it but has to , because that 's what he is told to do . ''
So what is the new law ?
A new interpretation of the handball law was introduced at the beginning of this season .
Under these new rules , a player will be penalised for handball if : • None The hand/arm is clearly away from the body and outside the `` body line '' .
• None The player clearly leans into the path of the ball .
• None The ball touches a hand/arm that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ None The player falls and the hand/arm is extended laterally or vertically away from the body .
• None A deflection clearly makes no difference to the ball touching a hand/arm that is clearly extended away from the body and/or above the shoulder Though Ward 's arm was clearly away from his body at the moment of contact , Hodgson and his players felt the ball did not travel enough distance to warrant a penalty .
`` We have lost in a way I find totally unacceptable , '' added Hodgson .
'Harsh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - what was said Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward : `` It is confusing .
When you look at the motion and the momentum [ of players ] , it 's very hard to play with your arms behind your back .
It is what it is .
There will be conversations , I 'm sure . ''
Everton captain Seamus Coleman : `` Being a defender in this day and age is hard enough with wingers , but then to be thinking about your hand in the box is tough . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ am not the right person to judge the decision of the referee .
It is not only one referee that decides and we have to adapt to the new rules on the handball .
It is difficult , but we can not do anything . ''
Alan Shearer , former England striker on Match of the Day : `` It is wrong and it has to change .
It is madness to give that as handball .
Just go back to what it was years ago .
Martin Keown , former Arsenal defender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to have to start playing with straitjackets on .
What is Joel Ward to do there ?
This is not within the spirit of the game .
It is not in the spirit of the game I joined as a young boy .
`` There is absolutely no way [ Ward ] is trying to handball that and he ca n't get out the way of it .
It is ball to arm , it is not arm to ball .
It hits him .
`` I 'm not sure I would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with this current law . ''
Matthew Upson , former England and West Ham defender on BBC Radio 5 Live : `` I can not believe what I 'm seeing with these decisions .
Something has to be done .
It 's ludicrous .
How can you react to get your arm out of the way of that ?
`` I 'm a bit lost .
It also took a minute or two for VAR to flag up the issue .
The game has gone on and you do n't know what you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like to hear the conversation that went on between Kevin Friend and Joel Ward .
I do n't know how Kevin Friend could have kept a straight face as he explained how they came to that decision . ''
'No idea what is or is n't handball any more ' - social media reacts Owen : `` Seems like the trouble with handball is you can either have a very strict rule which maintains consistency but provides situations like today , or you can allow more interpretation which leads to 'that same handball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Rich Wilsher : `` Pens produce many more goals than shots , so if I 'm a coach , I 'm telling my attacking players to kick the ball where a defending player 's arm will be , rather than shoot . ''
Amy : `` So which rule did the Ward handball break ?
None of them . ''
Neil Beasley : `` There is no such thing as common sense anymore . ''
Nick Eve : `` I 'll be perfectly honest , I have absolutely no idea what is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ChemistPaul : `` Well , that was as much of a penalty as the one that Palace benefited from last week .
Which is to say that it was never a penalty in a million years . ''
Tomas Rooney Murphy : `` This handball rule is getting ridiculous .
Where is the defender meant to put his hand !
? ''

Handball rule is 'killing game of football - Hodgson
Roy Hodgson says the "nonsense" handball law that led to a penalty against Joel Ward in Crystal Palace's 2-1 defeat by Everton is "ruining the game".
Palace defender Ward was adjudged to have handled Lucas Digne's first-half knockdown, despite the ball striking his hand from close range.
Referee Kevin Friend gave the penalty after using his pitch-side monitor.
Richarlison scored from the spot-kick to earn Everton victory.
"It's completely unacceptable. It's destroying my enjoyment of the game of football," said Hodgson.
"I can't understand how everyone in the game - the Premier League, referees, managers and coaches - have allowed this rule to come into operation.
"I don't want to profit from it or lose from it."
Hodgson also believes the decision to penalise Ward sets a dangerous precedent for the future of the game.
"I predict what will happen is players will start flicking the ball onto a hand and screaming 'handball'," added the 73-year-old.
"I do not believe in the rule. People in football find it hard to accept. The referee doesn't think it is handball either. He doesn't want to give it but has to, because that's what he is told to do."
So what is the new law?
A new interpretation of the handball law was introduced at the beginning of this season. Under these new rules, a player will be penalised for handball if:
The hand/arm is clearly away from the body and outside the "body line" .
The player clearly leans into the path of the ball.
The ball travels some distance.
The ball touches a hand/arm that is clearly raised above the shoulder.
The player falls and the hand/arm is extended laterally or vertically away from the body.
A deflection clearly makes no difference to the ball touching a hand/arm that is clearly extended away from the body and/or above the shoulder
Though Ward's arm was clearly away from his body at the moment of contact, Hodgson and his players felt the ball did not travel enough distance to warrant a penalty.
"We have lost in a way I find totally unacceptable," added Hodgson.
'Harsh', 'confusing' and 'ludicrous' - what was said
Palace defender Joel Ward looked crestfallen at the final whistle after giving away the penalty that led to Everton's winning goal
Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward: "It is confusing. When you look at the motion and the momentum [of players], it's very hard to play with your arms behind your back. It is what it is. There will be conversations, I'm sure."
Everton captain Seamus Coleman: "Being a defender in this day and age is hard enough with wingers, but then to be thinking about your hand in the box is tough."
Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti: "I am not the right person to judge the decision of the referee. It is not only one referee that decides and we have to adapt to the new rules on the handball. It is difficult, but we cannot do anything."
Alan Shearer, former England striker on Match of the Day: "It is wrong and it has to change. It is madness to give that as handball. Just go back to what it was years ago.
Martin Keown, former Arsenal defender on Final Score: "Defenders are going to have to start playing with straitjackets on. What is Joel Ward to do there? This is not within the spirit of the game. It is not in the spirit of the game I joined as a young boy.
"There is absolutely no way [Ward] is trying to handball that and he can't get out the way of it. It is ball to arm, it is not arm to ball. It hits him.
"I'm not sure I would want to be a defender anymore, with this current law."
Matthew Upson, former England and West Ham defender on BBC Radio 5 Live: "I cannot believe what I'm seeing with these decisions. Something has to be done. It's ludicrous. How can you react to get your arm out of the way of that?
"I'm a bit lost. It also took a minute or two for VAR to flag up the issue. The game has gone on and you don't know what you are looking at.
"I would like to hear the conversation that went on between Kevin Friend and Joel Ward. I don't know how Kevin Friend could have kept a straight face as he explained how they came to that decision."
'No idea what is or isn't handball any more' - social media reacts
Owen: "Seems like the trouble with handball is you can either have a very strict rule which maintains consistency but provides situations like today, or you can allow more interpretation which leads to 'that same handball wasn't given last week'."
Rich Wilsher: "Pens produce many more goals than shots, so if I'm a coach, I'm telling my attacking players to kick the ball where a defending player's arm will be, rather than shoot."
Amy: "So which rule did the Ward handball break? None of them."
Neil Beasley: "There is no such thing as common sense anymore."
Nick Eve: "I'll be perfectly honest, I have absolutely no idea what is or isn't handball anymore."
ChemistPaul: "Well, that was as much of a penalty as the one that Palace benefited from last week. Which is to say that it was never a penalty in a million years."
Tomas Rooney Murphy: "This handball rule is getting ridiculous. Where is the defender meant to put his hand!?"


bbc--2020-09-26--'One epic last boxing fight' - Pacquiao camp confirms McGregor talks

Last updated on .From the section Boxing Manny Pacquiao 's special assistant says that the eight-weight world champion hopes to fight Conor McGregor in 2021 .
Former two-weight UFC champion McGregor , 32 , tweeted on Friday that the the Irishman would be `` boxing Pacquiao next in the Middle East '' .
`` We do n't deny it , '' Joson said in a statement on Saturday .
While nothing has been signed yet , he added that negotiation between the two camps `` is now starting to move on '' and that both fighters are `` getting ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
• None McGregor : Who next after UFC 246 ?
Khabib , Mayweather , Masvidal , Usman or Pacquiao ?
Pacquiao is the only boxer ever to hold world titles in eight different divisions and in his last fight in July 2019 he beat Keith Thurman to become the oldest welterweight champion in history .
He now has a 62-7 record , with two draws , while McGregor 's last fight - a win over Donald Cerrone at UFC 246 in January - gave him a 22-4 record in mixed martial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight was a loss to Floyd Mayweather in August 2017 .
The Las Vegas fight was one of the richest bouts in boxing history and generated more than £450m through 4.3m pay-per-view buys in North America , second only to 4.6m for Mayweather 's win over Pacquiao in 2015 .

Last updated on .From the section Boxing
Pacquiao (right) lost in 2015 to Mayweather, the only man McGregor has previously fought in professional boxing
Manny Pacquiao's special assistant says that the eight-weight world champion hopes to fight Conor McGregor in 2021.
Jayke Joson added that a "huge portion" of Pacquiao's earnings would go to help coronavirus victims in the 41-year-old's native Philippines.
Former two-weight UFC champion McGregor, 32, tweeted on Friday that the the Irishman would be "boxing Pacquiao next in the Middle East".
"We don't deny it," Joson said in a statement on Saturday.
While nothing has been signed yet, he added that negotiation between the two camps "is now starting to move on" and that both fighters are "getting ready for this one epic last boxing fight".
Pacquiao is the only boxer ever to hold world titles in eight different divisions and in his last fight in July 2019 he beat Keith Thurman to become the oldest welterweight champion in history.
He now has a 62-7 record, with two draws, while McGregor's last fight - a win over Donald Cerrone at UFC 246 in January - gave him a 22-4 record in mixed martial arts.
His only previous professional boxing fight was a loss to Floyd Mayweather in August 2017.
The Las Vegas fight was one of the richest bouts in boxing history and generated more than £450m through 4.3m pay-per-view buys in North America, second only to 4.6m for Mayweather's win over Pacquiao in 2015.


bbc--2020-09-26--Murray set for 'amusing' Wawrinka match, with Konta & Evans also in action on day one

Last updated on .From the section Tennis Andy Murray says it was `` amusing '' to be drawn against fellow three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka in the French Open , which starts on Sunday .
Murray is playing on clay for the first time since losing to Wawrinka in the 2017 semi-finals at Roland Garros .
British number ones Johanna Konta and Dan Evans also start on Sunday , playing against Coco Gauff and Kei Nishikori .
Ninth seed Konta takes on American 16-year-old Gauff on Court Suzanne Lenglen at about 15:00 , with 32nd seed Evans meeting Japan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court 14 at about 12:00 .
Murray being drawn against Switzerland 's Wawrinka in his Roland Garros return was a quirk of fate which has excited fans .
During the 2017 tournament in Paris , Murray felt for the first time something was not right with his hip and it was an injury which threatened to end his career less than two years later .
Two major surgeries and several comebacks later , he will face 35-year-old Wawrinka - whose own career has been disrupted by knee injuries - in his second Grand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second-round defeat at the US Open .
`` It 's an amusing draw .
It 's actually the first time I 've watched the draw in the past 10 years , '' said Murray , who is ranked 111th .
`` Obviously it will be a very tough match .
That match I played against Stan a few years ago was a brutal one .
`` I kind of knew something was up before the Kei Nishikori match in the quarter-finals .
`` I did n't know that it was that bad but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in the fifth set , I was struggling to push up on my serve and moving to my forehand .
`` It never felt the same after that match . ''
Konta will not be fazed by Gauff hype Konta , 29 , returns to the place where she enjoyed a memorable run to the semi-finals a little over 15 months ago .
But her build-up has been vastly different to last year - she has won just one match in a shortened clay-court season and arrived in Paris without a full-time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` getting better each day '' on the surface but she would probably have preferred to avoid a talent like Gauff in her opener .
The teenager announced her arrival on the biggest stage with a run to the Wimbledon fourth round in June 2019 , backing that up with a similar effort at the Australian Open in January , where she knocked out defending champion Naomi Osaka .
• None The 16-year-old tennis star on secrets behind her special potential Konta , who has never played Gauff , said : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age .
That 's why she 's able to compete at the level she 's competing .
`` She 's physically and mentally mature enough to deal with the demands we have on tour .
Obviously she 's going to just keep getting better and better .
`` I 'm very clear on the fact that I 'm going in playing another professional tennis player who is one of the best-ranked in the world .
It does n't matter if she 's 14 or 40 .
`` I 'm going to be playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not her social media following , not her persona . ''
Evans , 30 , has said he does not enjoy playing on clay and was handed arguably the worst draw he could have had against Nishikori .
The world number 35 is one place below Evans in the rankings after injury problems and reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year for the third time .
`` No-one really needs to question his quality .
It will be a difficult match , '' said Evans , who has never won a main-draw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to go out there and try my best to win the match and see what happens . ''
• None Alerts : Get tennis news sent to your phone • None Has it gone too far ?

Last updated on .From the section Tennis
Andy Murray (left) lost to Stan Wawrinka in the 2017 French Open semi-finals, with the Swiss going on to lose to Rafael Nadal in the final
French Open 2020 Dates: 27 September - 11 October Venue: Roland Garros, Paris Coverage: Selected radio and text commentaries on BBC Radio 5 Live and the BBC Sport website, plus daily reports and analysis
Andy Murray says it was "amusing" to be drawn against fellow three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka in the French Open, which starts on Sunday.
British former world number one Murray, 33, plays the 16th seed last on Court Philippe Chatrier at about 17:30 BST.
Murray is playing on clay for the first time since losing to Wawrinka in the 2017 semi-finals at Roland Garros.
British number ones Johanna Konta and Dan Evans also start on Sunday, playing against Coco Gauff and Kei Nishikori.
Ninth seed Konta takes on American 16-year-old Gauff on Court Suzanne Lenglen at about 15:00, with 32nd seed Evans meeting Japan's former world number four Nishikori on court 14 at about 12:00.
However, their matches could be disrupted by the weather, with rain forecast throughout the day in Paris. Murray and Wawrinka look likely to play under Chatrier's new roof.
Sunday's order of play (starts 10:00 BST) Court Philippe Chatrier Court Suzanne Lenglen Jannik Sinner (Ita) v David Goffin (Bel) [11] Victoria Azarenka (Blr) [10] v Danka Kovinic (Mno) Simona Halep (Rom) [1] v Sara Sorribes Tormo (Spa) Jurij Rodionov (Aut) v Jeremy Chardy (Fra) Anett Kontaveit (Est) [17] v Caroline Garcia (Fra) Johanna Konta (GB) [9] v Coco Gauff (US) Andy Murray (GB) v Stan Wawrinka (Swi) [16] Alexander Zverev (Ger) [6] v Dennis Novak (Aut)
'First time I've watched a draw in 10 years'
Murray being drawn against Switzerland's Wawrinka in his Roland Garros return was a quirk of fate which has excited fans.
During the 2017 tournament in Paris, Murray felt for the first time something was not right with his hip and it was an injury which threatened to end his career less than two years later.
Two major surgeries and several comebacks later, he will face 35-year-old Wawrinka - whose own career has been disrupted by knee injuries - in his second Grand Slam event in quick succession after a second-round defeat at the US Open.
"It's an amusing draw. It's actually the first time I've watched the draw in the past 10 years," said Murray, who is ranked 111th.
"Obviously it will be a very tough match. That match I played against Stan a few years ago was a brutal one.
"I kind of knew something was up before the Kei Nishikori match in the quarter-finals.
"I didn't know that it was that bad but at the end of the Stan match, in the fifth set, I was struggling to push up on my serve and moving to my forehand.
"It never felt the same after that match."
Konta will not be fazed by Gauff hype
Konta, 29, returns to the place where she enjoyed a memorable run to the semi-finals a little over 15 months ago.
But her build-up has been vastly different to last year - she has won just one match in a shortened clay-court season and arrived in Paris without a full-time coach.
The Briton says she is "getting better each day" on the surface but she would probably have preferred to avoid a talent like Gauff in her opener.
The teenager announced her arrival on the biggest stage with a run to the Wimbledon fourth round in June 2019, backing that up with a similar effort at the Australian Open in January, where she knocked out defending champion Naomi Osaka.
Coco Gauff, who turned 16 in March, is ranked 51st and plays in the Roland Garros main draw for the first time
Konta, who has never played Gauff, said: "I know she's very mature for her age. That's why she's able to compete at the level she's competing.
"She's physically and mentally mature enough to deal with the demands we have on tour. Obviously she's going to just keep getting better and better.
"I'm very clear on the fact that I'm going in playing another professional tennis player who is one of the best-ranked in the world. It doesn't matter if she's 14 or 40.
"I'm going to be playing against the tennis that she brings, not her social media following, not her persona."
Evans, 30, has said he does not enjoy playing on clay and was handed arguably the worst draw he could have had against Nishikori.
The world number 35 is one place below Evans in the rankings after injury problems and reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year for the third time.
"No-one really needs to question his quality. It will be a difficult match," said Evans, who has never won a main-draw matchat the French Open.
"I have to go out there and try my best to win the match and see what happens."


bbc--2020-09-27--Amy Coney Barrett: Trump nominates conservative favourite for Supreme Court

US President Donald Trump has nominated Amy Coney Barrett , a favourite of social conservatives , to be the new Supreme Court justice .
Speaking by her side at the White House Rose Garden , Mr Trump described her as a `` woman of unparalleled achievement '' .
If confirmed by senators , Judge Barrett will replace liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg who died recently , aged 87 .
The nomination will spark a bitter confirmation fight in the Senate as November 's presidential election looms .
Announcing Judge Barrett as his nominee on Saturday , President Trump described her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' with `` unyielding loyalty to the constitution '' .
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden urged the Senate not to `` act on this vacancy until after the American people select their next president and the next Congress '' .
`` The United States Constitution was designed to give the voters one chance to have their voice heard on who serves on the Court .
That moment is now and their voice should be heard , '' he said .
If Judge Barrett is confirmed , conservative-leaning justices will hold a 6-3 majority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future .
The 48-year-old would be the third justice appointed by the current Republican president , after Neil Gorsuch in 2017 and Brett Kavanaugh in 2018 .
The court 's nine justices serve lifetime appointments , and their rulings can shape public policy on everything from gun and voting rights to abortion and campaign finance for decades In recent years , the court has expanded gay marriage to all 50 states , allowed for Mr Trump 's travel ban on mainly Muslim countries to be put in place , and delayed a US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coney Barrett has been on Donald Trump 's shortlist for Supreme Court vacancies for some time , but the word was that she would be the most appropriate replacement for Ruth Bader Ginsburg .
As of last week , that was no longer a hypothetical scenario .
Even before Mr Trump reportedly settled on Judge Barrett as his pick , conservatives were rallying around the nominee , whoever it might be .
And if they stick together , as all but two seem to be doing , her confirmation appears assured - whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a `` lame duck '' Senate session afterward .
The choice of Judge Barrett puts Democrats in a tricky position .
They have to find a way of undermining support for the nominee without seeming to attack her Catholic faith or personal background - moves that could risk turning off some voters in November .
They will seek to delay the proceedings as best they can , while keeping their focus on issues like healthcare and abortion , which could be at the centre of future legal battles with Justice Barrett on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hope Judge Barrett , or the Republicans , make some kind of critical error .
It is a tall order , but for the moment it is the only play they have .
After graduating from Notre Dame University Law School in Indiana , she clerked for the late Justice Antonin Scalia .
In 2017 , she was nominated by Mr Trump to the Chicago-based 7th Circuit Court of Appeals .
She is described as a devout Catholic who , according to a 2013 magazine article , said that `` life begins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a favourite among religious conservatives keen to overturn the 1973 Supreme Court decision that legalised abortion nationwide .
LGBT groups have criticised her membership of a conservative Catholic group , People of Praise , whose network of schools have guidelines stating a belief that sexual relations should only happen between heterosexual married couples .
Judge Barrett has ruled in favour of President Trump 's hardline immigration policies and expressed views in favour of expansive gun rights .
Conservatives hope she will rule against the Affordable Care Act - a health insurance scheme introduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Obama .
Some 20 million Americans could lose their health coverage if the court overturns the legislation , also known as Obamacare .
Following Saturday 's announcement , Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer warned fellow senators that voting to confirm Judge Barrett could spell the end of Obamacare .
`` A vote by any senator for Judge Amy Coney Barrett is a vote to strike down the Affordable Care Act and eliminate protections for millions of Americans . ''
Judge Barrett on Saturday said her rulings as a Supreme Court justice would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Judges are not policymakers , and they must be resolute in setting aside any policy view they might hold , '' she said .
• What is the US Supreme Court ?
• Why US top court is more political than UK's The White House has begun contacting Republican Senate offices to schedule meetings with the nominee , sources told CBS .
Hearings by the Senate Judiciary Committee - the panel tasked with vetting nominees - are scheduled to begin on 12 October , and will last three to four days , committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday .
Afterwards committee members will vote on whether to send the nomination to the full Senate .
If they do , all 100 senators will vote to confirm or reject her .
Republicans hold a slim majority of 53 senators , but they already seem to have the 51 votes needed to get Judge Barrett confirmed .
Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell has vowed to hold a confirmation vote before the 3 November election .
Barring a surprise , Democrats seem to have few procedural options to prevent her gliding through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Trump said the confirmation process should be `` very easy '' and `` very quick '' .
Why is the nomination controversial ?
Since Ginsburg 's death from cancer on 18 September , Republican senators have been accused of hypocrisy for pressing ahead with a Supreme Court nomination during an election year .
In 2016 , Mr McConnell refused to hold hearings for Democratic President Barack Obama 's nominee for the court , Merrick Garland .
The nomination , which came 237 days before the election , was successfully blocked because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision should be made outside of an election year .
This time around , Mr McConnell has lauded Judge Barrett 's nomination , saying the president `` could not have made a better decision . ''
With less than 40 days until the 2020 election , Democrats say the Republicans should stand by their earlier position and let voters decide .
Mr Biden has called Mr Trump 's efforts to appoint a justice an `` abuse of power '' .

The choice of Judge Barrett puts Democrats in a tricky position. They have to find a way of undermining support for the nominee without seeming to attack her Catholic faith or personal background - moves that could risk turning off some voters in November. They will seek to delay the proceedings as best they can, while keeping their focus on issues like healthcare and abortion, which could be at the centre of future legal battles with Justice Barrett on a conservative-dominated court.


bbc--2020-09-27--Azerbaijan and Armenia clash over disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region

Clashes have begun between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region , with at least one Azerbaijani helicopter shot down .
Armenia said Azerbaijan had launched an air and artillery attack .
It later declared martial law and total military mobilisation .
Azerbaijan said it was responding to shelling along the whole front .
Both sides have reported civilian deaths .
Both Armenia and Azerbaijan were part of the Soviet Union before its collapse in 1991 .
For four decades they have been stuck in an unresolved conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh , internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two sides saying ?
It said it had shot down two helicopters and three drones , and destroyed three tanks .
`` Our response will be proportionate , and the military-political leadership of Azerbaijan bears full responsibility for the situation , '' it said in a statement .
Officials said a woman and child had been killed , and further reports of casualties were being verified .
`` Get ready to defend our sacred homeland , '' Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said in a statement .
He earlier accused Azerbaijan of `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several villages had led to civilians being killed or wounded , and severe damage to infrastructure , its defence ministry said .
The country announced a `` counter-offensive operation of our troops along the entire front to suppress the combat activity of the armed forces of Armenia and ensure the safety of the civilian population '' .
It added that one helicopter had been lost but the crew had survived , and 12 Armenian air defence systems had been destroyed .
It denied other losses reported by Armenia .
Later on Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` which were under enemy occupation for many years , have been liberated '' .
`` Armenia has been consciously provoking Azerbaijan , and they will see the bitter results of this , '' he said .
`` Armenia is an occupying country , and an end must be put to this occupation and an end will be put to it . ''

It is common in this decades-long conflict for both sides to accuse the other of firing the first shots and what we are seeing is not just military action but also an information war. It is difficult to independently verify official information.


bbc--2020-09-27--Switzerland firmly rejects end of free movement with EU - projection

Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to end an agreement with the European Union on the free movement of people @ @ @ @ @ Broadcaster SRF said voters were set to reject the plan by 63 % to 37 @ @ @ @ @ being counted , and final results are due within hours .
Switzerland is not a @ @ @ @ @ but currently accepts free movement so that it can have access to free trade and @ @ @ @ @ like transport and education .
Supporters of the anti-free movement plan said it would allow @ @ @ @ @ and select only the immigrants it wants .
Opponents argued it would plunge a healthy @ @ @ @ @ deprive hundreds of thousands of Swiss citizens of their freedom to live and work across @ @ @ @ @ been voting on a number of other issues .
They appear to have backed paternity @ @ @ @ @ and rejected a proposal to make it easier to hunt protected species such as wolves @

Under the proposal, fathers will for the first time be granted two weeks of paid leave within six months of the birth of a child. They will also be entitled to receive 80% of their salary, up to a ceiling of 196 Swiss francs (£165; $210) per day.


bbc--2020-09-27--Brain-eating microbe: US city warned over water supply

Residents of Lake Jackson , Texas , have been warned about using tap water after a deadly brain-eating microbe was found in the city 's public water supply .
Tests confirmed the presence of Naegleria fowleri in the system .
The amoeba can cause an infection of the brain , which is usually fatal .
Infections are rare in the US , with 34 reported between 2009 and 2018 .
Officials in Lake Jackson said they were disinfecting the water supply but did not know how long this would take .
Eight Texas communities were originally told on Friday night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any reason except to flush toilets .
The warning was lifted on Saturday for everywhere but Lake Jackson , a city of more than 27,000 residents .
Authorities in Lake Jackson later said that people could begin using the water , but must boil it before drinking it .
Residents were also told to take other measures , including not allowing water to go up their noses while showering or bathing .
The city warned that children , elderly people , and people with weakened immune systems were `` particularly vulnerable '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ system , and would then carry out tests to ensure the water was safe to use .
An investigation into the city 's water supply began after a six-year-old boy contracted the microbe and died earlier this month , Lake Jackson City Manager Modesto Mundo told reporters .
Naegleria fowleri occurs naturally in freshwater and is found around the world .
It usually infects people when contaminated water enters the body through the nose and then travels to the brain .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) says infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diving in `` warm freshwater places '' .
The CDC says people can not get infected by swallowing contaminated water , and it can not be passed from person to person .
Those infected with Naegleria fowleri have symptoms including fever , nausea and vomiting , as well as a stiff neck and headaches .
Most die within a week .
An infection was previously confirmed in the US state of Florida earlier this year .
At the time , health officials there urged locals to avoid nasal contact with water from taps @ @ @ @

Authorities in Lake Jackson later said that people could begin using the water, but must boil it before drinking it. Residents were also told to take other measures, including not allowing water to go up their noses while showering or bathing.


bbc--2020-09-27--Japanese actress Yuko Takeuchi found dead at 40

Award-winning Japanese actress Yuko Takeuchi has been found dead at her Tokyo home at the age of 40 .
Police have launched an investigation and suspect the mother of two took her own life , media reports say .
She is said to have been found by her actor husband Taiki Nakabayashi at their home in Shibuya Ward .
Her death was confirmed at hospital .
Ms Takeuchi was a well-known actress in Japan , having appeared in many films and TV series during her career .
She played a female Sherlock Holmes in the 2018 HBO series Miss Sherlock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the US .
She also won best actress in a leading role category three years in a row , between 2004 and 2007 , in the Japanese Academy Awards .
Along with her long list of acting credits , Ms Takeuchi 's warm , smiling , woman-of-the-people image made her popular with advertisers , Variety Magazine reports .
Although suicide has not been confirmed in Ms Takeuchi 's case , it has been the cause of death for a number of Japanese talents recently , including the actress Sei Ashina earlier this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and wrestling star Hana Kimura in May .
Japan has one of the highest suicide rates in the world although figures have dropped since preventative measures were introduced in 2015 , according to the World Health Organization .
If you are feeling emotionally distressed and would like details of organisations which offer advice and support , click here .
In the UK you can call for free , at any time , to hear recorded information on 0800 066 066 .
In Japan you can get help here .

If you are feeling emotionally distressed and would like details of organisations which offer advice and support, click here. In the UK you can call for free, at any time, to hear recorded information on 0800 066 066. In Japan you can get help here.


bbc--2020-09-26--Brexit deal must be made, says UK business boss

A post-Brexit trade deal `` can and must be made '' , the organisation representing British businesses has said ahead of further UK-EU trade talks on Monday .
Dame Carolyn Fairbairn , the boss of the Confederation of British Industry , said it was the time for `` the spirit of compromise to shine through '' .
The Brexit transition period , in which the UK has kept to EU trading rules , ends on 31 December .
The UK and EU are yet to agree a deal that will govern their future trade .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must be done by 15 October if it is going to be ready for the start of 2021 .
But despite this , talks have run into problems .
There are still key points of disagreement - including , for example , on fishing .
The next official round of talks - the ninth since March - begins on 28 September .
• Why does the UK need another Brexit deal ?
• What are the sticking points in Brexit trade talks ?
• Seven things that will change on 1 January The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ companies which found only 4 % said they would prefer no deal to be agreed on trade .
And half of firms said the impact of dealing with the coronavirus had negatively affected their preparations for next year , when the transition period ends .
`` Next week Brexit talks enter the 11th hour , '' said Dame Carolyn .
`` Now must be the time for political leadership and the spirit of compromise to shine through on both sides .
A deal can and must be made .
`` Businesses face a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first wave of Covid-19 , dealing with the resurgence of the virus and preparing for significant changes to the UK 's trading relationship with the EU . ''
She added : `` A good deal will provide the strongest possible foundation as countries build back from the pandemic .
`` It would keep UK firms competitive by minimising red tape and extra costs , freeing much-needed time and resource to overcome the difficult times ahead . ''
According to BBC Europe editor Katya Adler , one EU diplomat said the two sides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreeing technical issues .
The diplomat said the `` remaining 10 % is political '' and `` if that ca n't be solved , then the 90 % is irrelevant '' .
• Analysis : So near and yet so far • What trade deals has the UK done ?
Any trade agreement will aim to eliminate tariffs and reduce other trade barriers .
It will also aim to cover both goods and services .
If negotiators fail to reach a deal , the UK faces the prospect of trading with the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ World Trade Organization ( WTO ) .
If the UK has to trade under WTO rules , tariffs will be applied to most goods which UK businesses send to the EU .
This would make UK goods more expensive and harder to sell in Europe .
The UK could also do this to EU goods , if it chooses to .

"Next week Brexit talks enter the 11th hour," said Dame Carolyn. "Now must be the time for political leadership and the spirit of compromise to shine through on both sides. A deal can and must be made.


bbc--2020-09-27--Paris to commemorate female slave rebellion figure

Paris is to put up a statue of a black woman involved in a 1802 rebellion against slavery on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe .
The woman , named only Solitude , was captured and possibly executed .
Opening a public garden in her honour on Saturday , Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo called Solitude a `` heroine '' and a `` strong symbol '' .
France 's history of slavery has been under new scrutiny , in part because of the US Black Lives Matter protests .
There has been soul-searching over public commemoration of colonial figures such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overseas slavery and is remembered by a statue outside the national parliament in Paris .
But President Emmanuel Macron has spoken against removing statues or names of controversial figures , offering instead a `` clear-headed look at our history and our memory '' .
Very little is known for sure , with just one brief written mention in a 19th-Century history of Guadeloupe , according to Unesco .
That account records that Solitude , a mixed-race woman , was arrested among `` a band of insurgents '' during an uprising against slavery - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being abolished during the French Revolution .
She was sentenced to death , the history notes , but allowed to give birth before being `` tortured '' - an ambiguous term which could mean she was indeed put to death , through flogging for example .
Solitude was portrayed in a 1972 work of fiction by French writer André Schwarz-Bart and a statue already honours her in Les Abymes , Guadeloupe .
The Solitude Garden is located on Place du Général Catroux in north-western Paris , where a statue will be erected in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black woman would be rare in the French capital , it would not be unprecedented .
The US entertainer and French Resistance agent Josephine Baker ( 1906-75 ) has been honoured by both a square and a monument

She was sentenced to death, the history notes, but allowed to give birth before being "tortured" - an ambiguous term which could mean she was indeed put to death, through flogging for example.


bbc--2020-09-26--UK students 'scared and confused' as halls lock down

Students have spoken of their worry and confusion at being locked down in their university halls , in a situation described by unions as `` shambolic '' .
Up to 1,700 students at Manchester Metropolitan University and hundreds at other institutions , including in Edinburgh and Glasgow , are self-isolating following Covid-19 outbreaks .
In Manchester , students are being prevented from leaving by security .
Universities UK said the wellbeing of students was `` the first priority '' .
Robert Halfon , the conservative chairman of the Education Select Committee , said 3,000 students were in lockdown at universities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the government and its scientific advisers to reassure students and families by setting out the policy for England - and warned having students in lockdown at Christmas would cause `` huge anguish '' .
Mr Halfon said universities should also consider discounts to students who were not being taught face-to-face .
• Scottish students : 'Why have they sent us here ? '
Manchester Met said it had introduced a 14-day self-isolation period at its accommodation at Birley and Cambridge Halls after 127 students tested positive for the virus .
Some students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go out on Friday night when they looked outside to see security guards and police , who told them they could not leave .
First-year Joe Byrne said : `` We have had no warning , support or advice from the university about how we get food etc , and instead have been left completely in the dark and practically locked up against our will . ''
Megan Tingey said she was not contacted by the university about the lockdown before police turned up outside her Birley Vine accommodation .
`` It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` No one 's really told us much and then the police turn up as well with security outside . ''
Another student , Ellie Jackson , told BBC News she had read about the halls lockdown in the local newspaper before receiving an email about it - and stressed the need for `` more guidance '' from the university .
For Ellie , it is the second period of self-isolation she and her five housemates have had to undertake .
`` My course is all online - I have n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` I could have done this at home .
I do n't think it 's worth the money at the moment . ''
In a statement , Manchester Met said it had communicated with students `` as soon as we could but it was not possible to give significant advanced notice due to the requirement to implement the isolation almost immediately '' .
`` The communications we sent included details about how to access food and other provisions and we have been working with other partners , including local supermarkets , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the statement said .
`` Our security teams will increase patrols to support the lockdown and we will take disciplinary action against any students found to have breached requirements . ''
Meanwhile , students across all of Scotland have been told not to go to pubs , parties or restaurants over the weekend and Universities Scotland has said students who socialise with anyone outside of their household risk losing their place at university .
Hundreds of students are isolating at Glasgow University because of two coronavirus clusters .
The university said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all students in university residences in recognition of the `` difficult circumstances '' under which they were living .
It said those students would also be given £50 each to spend on food and it would invite local mobile food outlets to come to residences .
Reese Chamberlain , an international student at the University of Edinburgh , said his entire block at Holland House was `` locked down '' after a student tested positive .
`` The situation is dire , '' he said .
`` I already self-isolated when I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so difficult getting basic supplies . ''
He said there had been an `` exodus of students '' during the night on Friday , with more than 50 leaving the building .
A spokesperson for the university said it was `` not asking for whole halls of student accommodation to self-isolate '' but there were currently `` a small number of positive cases '' and the university was providing care and support to those self-isolating .
University and College Union general secretary Jo Grady described the lockdown at Manchester Met as `` the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ predictable - and predicted - Covid outbreaks have caused havoc '' .
There was `` no point encouraging students to come to university to self-isolate for a fortnight '' , she added .
And the National Union of Students ( NUS ) said students should be able to return to their families because being `` trapped '' in university accommodation would only add to their anxiety at an already difficult time .
It called for universities to support students with food deliveries and provide access to mental health services .
`` We must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and universities told students to return to campus and this shambolic situation now demands flexibility , '' the union said .
Students `` must be able to leave rental contracts , access online learning or defer , and do what it takes to prioritise their safety '' , the statement added .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
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• TEST AND TRACE : How does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the government was working closely with universities in England to ensure they were prepared for the return of students .
A spokesman said : `` Students should follow the latest health advice , just like the wider public , which means they should stay at university in the event that they have symptoms ; have to isolate ; there are additional restrictions imposed locally ; or there is an outbreak on campus or in their accommodation . ''
Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said students were `` not to blame '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disciplinary action as a `` last resort '' against those who broke the rules .
Universities UK , which represents 139 institutions , said the health and wellbeing of students , staff and local communities was the first priority for universities , which would continue to follow government guidance .
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A spokesman said: "Students should follow the latest health advice, just like the wider public, which means they should stay at university in the event that they have symptoms; have to isolate; there are additional restrictions imposed locally; or there is an outbreak on campus or in their accommodation."


bbc--2020-09-26--Sir David Attenborough: Naturalist gives Prince George a fossil at royal screening

Sir David Attenborough has attended a private viewing of his new documentary at Kensington Palace , hosted by the Duke of Cambridge .
During his visit , the naturalist gave Prince George a fossilised giant tooth from an extinct shark .
The young prince looked captivated as he handled the tooth of a carcharocles megalodon , a shark that was once a sea predator .
Sir David and Prince William both campaign on environmental issues .
The event was held in the palace grounds to allow for social distancing .
William and the veteran broadcaster watched A Life On Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the defining moments of his life 's work and the devastating changes he has witnessed .
• William and Kate offer prize to 'repair the Earth' Sir David , 94 , chatted to the Duke and Duchess and their three children , Princes George and Louis , and Princess Charlotte , after the screening .
He was interviewed by Prince William at the World Economic Forum in Davos , Switzerland , in 2019 , where he warned humanity needed to act fast to prevent parts of the natural world being annihilated .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ together on the environment - including on the Earthshot Prize , a cash reward for solutions to environmental problems .
The giant shark tooth given to Prince George was found by Sir David during a family holiday to Malta in the late 1960s .
It was embedded in the island nation 's soft yellow limestone , and is about 23 million years old .
Carcharocles megalodon is believed to have grown up to 15 metres in length , twice the length of the great white shark .
David Attenborough : A Life On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday and on Netflix on October 4 .

William and the veteran broadcaster watched A Life On Our Planet, in which Sir David reflects on the defining moments of his life's work and the devastating changes he has witnessed.


bbc--2020-09-26--The woman farmer who beat debt and stigma

Three men in Jyoti Deshmukh 's family killed themselves because they could n't afford to pay off their farm loans @ @ @ @ @ her from taking up farming herself , although she was criticised for choosing what is @ @ @ @ @ job .

Three men in Jyoti Deshmukh's family killed themselves because they couldn't afford to pay off their farm loans.
That did not deter her from taking up farming herself, although she was criticised for choosing what is seen as a man's job.
But Jyoti proved them wrong.
Video by BBC Marathi's Shrikant Bangale and Ganesh Vasalvar


bbc--2020-09-27--Prince Charles: A million young people need help

The Prince of Wales has highlighted the impact of the pandemic on young people , saying it is a `` particularly difficult time to be young '' .
In a rare article , published in the Sunday Telegraph , Prince Charles suggested there could be one million young people `` needing urgent help '' .
And he said the challenge of helping those in need was `` unquestionably vast , but it is not insurmountable '' .
There have been many warnings over the impact of the virus on young people .
Researchers warned that education gaps between richer and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while experts said the drop in face-to-face contact could damage teenagers in the long-run .
And young people have also been hit hardest by unemployment , figures show .
Writing in the Telegraph , Prince Charles said : `` For anyone , this is a difficult time - but it is a particularly difficult time to be young . ''
He compared the current situation to `` other times when hope was scarce '' - citing the concerns over youth unemployment in the 1970s that prompted him to set up his charity the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people aged between 11 and 30 seek employment opportunities and life skills .
`` This year , we celebrate the fact that over the last nearly 45 years , we have helped a million young people to change their lives for the better , '' he said .
But he later added : `` Over all these years since the trust was launched , there has never been an easy time .
`` However , there has never been a time as uniquely challenging as the present , when the pandemic has left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help to protect their futures .
`` The task ahead is unquestionably vast , but it is not insurmountable . ''
Prince Charles - who himself tested positive for the virus early on in the pandemic - set up the Young People Relief Fund to provide extra support to young people affected by the impact of the virus .
It comes as thousands of students at universities across the UK are in lockdown following coronavirus outbreaks .
Many students have expressed worry and confusion about the situation .
Meanwhile , although schools reopened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's children 's commissioner warned that around 400,000 pupils were still out of school .
The government 's chief medical adviser Prof Chris Whitty has previously warned that children are more likely to be harmed by not returning to school than if they catch the virus .
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"This year, we celebrate the fact that over the last nearly 45 years, we have helped a million young people to change their lives for the better," he said.


bbc--2020-09-26--Belarus protests: Opposition icon Nina Bahinskaya, 73, bundled into van

A 73-year-old opposition figurehead in Belarus was again among dozens of women detained during a protest against embattled President Alexander @ @ @ @ @ rallied in Minsk on Saturday to call for the resignation of Mr Lukashenko , who @ @ @ @ @ month 's presidential election .
Among the protesters was Nina Bahinskaya , a great-grandmother who @ @ @ @ @ the protest movement .
Video footage on social media showed a masked officer ripping a @ @ @ @ @ of her hands before bundling her into a van .
Ms Bahinskaya , who has @ @ @ @ @ protests , was later released , local media reported .

A 73-year-old opposition figurehead in Belarus was again among dozens of women detained during a protest against embattled President Alexander Lukashenko.
Thousands of people rallied in Minsk on Saturday to call for the resignation of Mr Lukashenko, who they accused of rigging last month's presidential election.
Among the protesters was Nina Bahinskaya, a great-grandmother who has become an icon of the protest movement.
Video footage on social media showed a masked officer ripping a red and white flag out of her hands before bundling her into a van.
Ms Bahinskaya, who has been detained at previous anti-Lukashenko protests, was later released, local media reported.


bbc--2020-09-27--Premier League deal to help smaller clubs could come 'this week'

A deal for the Premier League to support lower-league clubs during the coronavirus pandemic `` could be reached this coming week '' .
Speaking on the Andrew Marr Show , Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said England 's top division needs to `` start looking after the football family as a whole '' and he was hopeful an agreement could be made over the coming days .
`` I 've been in touch with the Premier League a lot over the past few days .
They are working closely with the EFL to see how they can support them , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I have been clear : the Premier League needs to start looking after the football family as a whole , and indeed they are having productive conversations .
`` I am hopeful that they will reach a deal this coming week in relation to that , and then beyond that , look across at all sports . ''
The fan pilot programme , which had already been restricted to 1,000 people per game in September , has been paused .
Dowden said there had been no positive cases from pilots that had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the chief scientific adviser and the chief medical officer , `` it would not be wise to undertake any further easements '' .
`` It 's not just in the stadium , it 's the journey to and from the stadium as well .
At each of those points there are chances for further social interaction and risk of virus spreads , so right now is not the time to do it , '' he said .
Dowden added that the Premier League `` appreciates '' its help is needed to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confident an agreement will soon be reached .
In response , Huddersfield Town chief executive Mark Devlin posted on Twitter : `` But Mr Dowden , irrespective of Premier League support , you need to let us start welcoming back fans and business partners into a safe stadia environment .
`` So much work had been done on making our stadia as Covid safe as possible , you now need to let us all get on with it . ''
It is not yet known when fans will be able to return , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place for six months .
But Dowden said the government was working with clubs and medical advisers to seek `` further innovations '' to decrease risks .
`` We are continuing to explore what would be the ideal solution in the absence of a vaccine which would be if you have large amount of in-day testing to give people a so-called freedom pass to be able to go into those stadiums , '' he said .
`` We are exploring that , we are exploring further technological innovations , but we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clubs through this difficult period . ''

How long can football clubs survive without the return of fans in the stadium?
A deal for the Premier League to support lower-league clubs during the coronavirus pandemic "could be reached this coming week".
Plans for some fans to return to stadiums from 1 October will not go ahead because of the rising number of coronavirus cases, and it is feared the postponement could have a "devastating" impact on clubs.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden told the Andrew Marr Show that England's top flight needs to "start looking after the football family as a whole".
He added that he was hopeful an agreement could be made over the coming days.
"I've been in touch with the Premier League a lot over the past few days. They are working closely with the EFL (English Football League) to see how they can support them," said Dowden.
"The prime minister and I have been clear: the Premier League needs to start looking after the football family as a whole, and indeed they are having productive conversations.
"I am hopeful that they will reach a deal this coming week in relation to that, and then beyond that, look across at all sports."
The fan pilot programme, which had already been restricted to 1,000 people per game in September, has been paused. Dowden said there had been no positive cases from pilots that had already taken place but, under advice from the chief scientific adviser and the chief medical officer, "it would not be wise to undertake any further easements".
"It's not just in the stadium, it's the journey to and from the stadium as well. At each of those points there are chances for further social interaction and risk of virus spreads, so right now is not the time to do it," he added.
Dowden added that the Premier League "appreciates" its help is needed to support EFL clubs and that he is confident an agreement will soon be reached.
In response, Huddersfield Town chief executive Mark Devlin posted on social media: "But Mr Dowden, irrespective of Premier League support, you need to let us start welcoming back fans and business partners into a safe stadia environment.
"So much work had been done on making our stadia as Covid safe as possible, you now need to let us all get on with it."
It is not yet known when fans will be able to return, with existing government restrictions likely to remain in place for six months.
But Dowden said the government was working with clubs and medical advisers to seek "further innovations" to decrease risks.
"We are continuing to explore what would be the ideal solution in the absence of a vaccine, which would be if you have large amount of in-day testing to give people a so-called freedom pass to be able to go into those stadiums," he said.
"We are exploring that. We are exploring further technological innovations. But we are also looking at how we can support the clubs through this difficult period."
Analysis
BBC Sport's Simon Stone
The BBC was told earlier this month the EFL expected to be given details by the Premier League about what financial assistance it might offer by the end of September.
While the Premier League will continue advancing solidarity payments earlier than normal, BBC Sport understands that, while accepting the need for speed and to be flexible in its approach, it is not completely clear what the EFL is asking for beyond a £250m 'bailout'.
BBC Sport has been told the Premier League needs detailed analysis of what money is needed, for whom and precisely why. Without this, the organisation is reluctant to hand over a cheque at a time when its clubs are feeling huge financial pressure given they are losing the most in terms of fans being absent from stadiums.
Respected football finance blogger Swiss Ramble posted on Thursday that the combined losses of Premier League clubs through the absence of matchday income would be at least £830m if no fans were allowed into stadiums for the remainder of the 2020-21 season.
That figure is regarded as a minimum as it does not take into account sums paid by fans buying merchandise on a matchday because that is calculated in a different revenue stream.


bbc--2020-09-27--Azarenka through but slams 'cold' conditions at French Open

Last updated on .From the section Tennis A frustrated Victoria Azarenka reached the French Open second round after briefly refusing to play in `` completely ridiculous '' conditions in Paris .
The Belarusian 10th seed , wearing a jacket and leggings , eventually returned to beat Montenegro 's Danka Kovinic 6-1 6-2 in just over one hour .
She will face Venus Williams or Anna Schmiedlova in her next match . '
I live in Florida , I am used to hot weather' This year 's French Open was delayed from its usual spot at the end of May because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ setting has brought new challenges .
The weather forecast in Paris on Sunday was for gusty winds and rain and highs of 14C .
Rain was in the air and the wind whipping up the clay on a deserted Court Suzanne Lenglen as the former world number one began her contest with Kovinic .
After three games , which all went with serve , Azarenka sat down on her chair and asked to see the supervisor .
She was asked to wait on court to see if conditions improved but refused .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am going to get frozen , '' she said .
`` I 'm not waiting here a couple of minutes because I am cold , it 's eight degrees .
I live in Florida , I am used to hot weather .
After checking with Kovinic , who also said she did not want to wait , Azarenka added : `` No , it 's completely ridiculous .
It 's too cold , what 's the point , sitting here like ducks . ''
Azarenka swiftly won the opening set after the players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 minutes to progress to the second round .

Azarenka reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros in 2013
French Open 2020 Dates: 27 September - 11 October Venue: Roland Garros, Paris Coverage: Selected radio and text commentaries on BBC Radio 5 Live and the BBC Sport website, plus daily reports and analysis
"Ridiculous conditions" and balls not fit for a "dog to chew" were comments organisers had to digest on the opening day of the rescheduled French Open.
The Grand Slam was moved from its traditional May start to September because of the pandemic, and players faced cold and drizzly weather.
Recent US Open finalist Victoria Azarenka left the court during her match, stating it was "too cold".
She added: "Does it [weather] increase the risk of injuries? Absolutely."
The 31-year-old Belarusian, who lost to Naomi Osaka in the Flushing Meadows final a fortnight ago, walked off after a debate with officials over the temperature. She eventually returned to beat Montenegro's Danka Kovinic 6-1 6-2.
Azarenka, who will face Anna Schmiedlova in her next match, said: "I think after the tournament there should be some real good feedback and explanations and conversations with players, that's for a fact."
Meanwhile, British number one Dan Evans echoed the criticism of defending champion Rafael Nadal external-link of the new Wilson balls being used at Roland Garros, which have replaced Babolat balls.
Dan Evans was one of several players who felt the chill on the opening day of the French Open
On the eve of the tournament, the Spanish 12-time champion said it was "not a good ball to play on clay". Following his five-set defeat by Kei Nishikori, Evans was somewhat more colourful with his description.
"Some of those balls we were using you wouldn't give to a dog to chew," the 30-year-old said. "It's brutal. It's so cold. I think the balls are the biggest thing.
"Maybe they got it a little wrong with the balls. It's tough to get that ball to go anywhere. That ball's a bit too heavy, I think."
Many players were wearing leggings underneath their shorts or skirts, a rare sight at this Slam, while the smattering of spectators also wrapped up warm - no more than 1,000 per day are allowed in the Roland Garros grounds during the tournament.
According to BBC Weather, Paris is set for more dreary conditions on Monday, with temperatures improving just a couple of degrees on the 14C experienced on Sunday.
'I live in Florida, I am used to hot weather'
Azarenka and Kovinic left the court after three games of the opening set
This year's French Open was delayed from its usual spot at the end of May because of the coronavirus pandemic and the autumnal setting has brought new challenges.
Rain was in the air and the wind was whipping up the clay on a deserted Court Suzanne Lenglen as former world number one Azarenka began her contest with Kovinic.
After three games, which all went with serve, Azarenka sat down on her chair and asked to see the supervisor. She was asked to wait on court to see if conditions improved but refused.
"I'm not sitting here because I am going to get frozen," she said. "I'm not waiting here a couple of minutes because I am cold, it's eight degrees. I live in Florida, I am used to hot weather."
After checking with Kovinic, who also said she did not want to wait, Azarenka added: "No, it's completely ridiculous. It's too cold, what's the point, sitting here like ducks."
Azarenka swiftly won the opening set after the players returned following a delay of around 45 minutes, and then took the second in 30 minutes to progress to the second round.
Despite her frustrations, Azarenka believes it was the right decision for the French Open to go ahead four months later than planned.
"I think it's a complicated question, it really is. I don't know if I've ever really played in September in Paris. I've been here in October and I knew that it wasn't the best conditions to play tennis," she said.
"Do I think it's better that the tournament is cancelled? I wouldn't particularly say so because I do believe that I want to play.
"Also I think lower-ranked players and doubles players have been hit pretty hard financially with the situation, so it's definitely a great opportunity to be able to have the tournament."


bbc--2020-09-27--Donald Trump 'paid $750 in federal income taxes in 2016' - New York Times

The New York Times alleges that Donald Trump paid just $ 750 ( £587 ) in federal income tax in 2016 , the year he won the US presidency .
It says this is `` largely '' due to the companies reporting losses .
`` Actually I paid , but you 'll see then as soon as my tax returns are done , '' he told reporters after the story was published on Sunday .
The New York Times said it had reviewed tax returns relating to President Trump and the companies owned by the Trump Organization going back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal returns for 2016 and 2017 .
The publication claims that Mr Trump paid just $ 750 in income taxes in 2016 , and $ 750 in 2017 .
Alan Garten , chief legal officer of the Trump Organization , said that `` most , if not all , of the facts appear to be inaccurate '' , in response to a letter compiling the Times ' findings .
`` Over the past decade , President Trump has paid tens of millions of dollars in personal taxes to the federal government , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his candidacy in 2015 , '' said Mr Garten .
In a public filing in 2018 , President Trump said that he had made at least $ 434.9m in revenues .
The newspaper disputes this , alleging that his tax returns show the president had instead gone into the red , with $ 47.4m in losses .
The newspaper also claims that `` most '' of President Trump 's biggest businesses - such as his golf courses and hotels - `` report losing millions , if not tens of millions , of dollars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ York Times claims that the president is personally responsible for more than $ 300m in loans , which will come due in the next four years .
It also alleges that some of President Trump 's businesses have received money from `` lobbyists , foreign officials and others seeking face time , access or favour '' from the president .

Trump has boasted in the past of his ability to take advantage of every loophole in what he says is a corrupt tax system. When he's not denying this report, he may offer a similar defence - and his supporters will probably find that sufficient. The Americans who are outraged that they paid more in taxes than the billionaire US president are probably already against him.


bbc--2020-09-27--Armenia and Azerbaijan fight over disputed Nagorno-Karabakh

One of the world 's oldest conflicts , a territorial dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan , has re-erupted with the heaviest clashes in years .
At least 23 people were reported to have been killed on Sunday as the two ex-Soviet republics battled over the Nagorno-Karabakh region .
Martial law has been declared amid the violence in some parts of Azerbaijan , as well as in Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh .
The conflict in the Caucasus Mountains has remained unresolved for more than three decades , with periodic bouts of fighting .
Any upsurge in violence could unsettle markets as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carrying oil and natural gas from the Caspian Sea to world markets .
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan pledged support for Azerbaijan , urging the world to stand with the country in its `` battle against invasion and cruelty '' .
Azerbaijanis are a predominantly Turkic people with whom Turkey has close ties .
Russia , traditionally seen as an ally of Armenia , called for an immediate ceasefire and talks to stabilise the situation .
Sunday 's fighting with the use of heavy weaponry along the line of control is the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is common in this decades-long conflict for both sides to accuse the other of firing the first shots and what we are seeing is not just military action but also an information war .
It is difficult to independently verify official information .
Azerbaijan 's claim to have `` liberated '' territory controlled by Armenians has been denied by the Armenian authorities .
Similarly , Armenia 's claims to have inflicted heavy losses on Azerbaijani forces have been dismissed by Baku .
Moreover , the Azerbaijani authorities have restricted internet use inside the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media .
Turkey 's emphatic support may embolden Azerbaijan .
Back in August , the Azerbaijani defence minister said that with the help of the Turkish military Azerbaijan would fulfil its `` sacred duty '' - in other words , take back its lost territories .
How did the fighting spread ?
Martial law is an emergency measure under which the military takes over the authority and functions of the civilian government .
Warning that the region was on the brink of a `` large-scale war '' , he urged the international community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .


bbc--2020-09-27--'Forced to work' as medics fighting coronavirus

Almost 200 health workers have died of Covid-19 in Venezuela since the pandemic began in March .
The country has @ @ @ @ @ and over 560 deaths .
The BBC has been hearing from health workers across the @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve had to work without masks or gloves for weeks and are afraid of @ @ @ @ @ place of work .

Almost 200 health workers have died of Covid-19 in Venezuela since the pandemic began in March.
The country has had at least 68,000 cases and over 560 deaths.
The BBC has been hearing from health workers across the country who say that they’ve had to work without masks or gloves for weeks and are afraid of catching the virus at their place of work.
Produced by Herminia Fernández and Vladimir Hernández