bbc--2020-05-28--Nissan to close Barcelona plant amid huge loss

Nissan 's UK factory in Sunderland will stay open as the Japanese carmaker carries out a global restructuring amid the coronavirus pandemic .
It will close its factory in Barcelona with the loss of about 2,800 jobs after the firm plunged to a $ 6.2bn ( £5bn ) net loss in the last financial year .
Nissan is cutting production and car models after sales fell before and during the Covid-19 outbreak .
The company 's net loss is its first for more than 10 years .
Nissan is part of a three-way alliance with Renault and Mitsubishi , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work more closely and cut costs .
Nissan said on Thursday it would focus on several `` key markets '' , including Japan , North America and China .
In a press briefing , its boss said that it will `` sustain '' its presence in Europe but will leave more room for alliance partners there , such as Renault .
There has been speculation that Renault could switch some production to the Sunderland factory .
Nissan chief executive Makoto Uchida told the press briefing the company would maintain production at its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cars there again in June , after production was paused due to coronavirus-related lockdown measures .
Before the suspension , the factory was preparing for production of the next-generation Qashqai , due out next year .
The factory , the UK 's biggest car plant , employs about 7,000 people .
Mr Uchida described the closure of the Barcelona factory as `` a very difficult decision '' .
`` The loss of the jobs of our Spanish colleagues is a regrettable reminder that automotive manufacturing is facing tremendous challenges , '' said Steve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Unite union .
He added that Unite is seeking assurances from Nissan `` that the cost-cutting measures spoken about will not impact on our members ' jobs , terms and conditions or other benefits at Europe 's most efficient plant , Sunderland . ''
This is good news .
For today , Nissan workers can breathe a sigh of relief that Sunderland has been recognised as an important production facility for the future .
However , lots of questions remain .
Nissan has identified Japan , North America and China as `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In Europe , Nissan 's alliance partner Renault will assume a greater role and influence in Europe at a time when the global car market will have to make very aggressive cost reductions .
The question may arise in the future - who is really in charge in Europe ?
If it 's Renault , what does that mean for future investment in a post-Brexit UK ?
Nissan alone said it had capacity to make seven million cars when it only needs capacity for five million .
Only plants that can demonstrate an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to attract investment .
As Professor David Bailey tweeted this morning : `` Once again , the workforce will have to pull out all the stops to work flexibly to get costs down '' .
So , some belt tightening ahead , but workers in Sunderland will be thankful they are not in the same position as their counterparts in Spain and Indonesia , where plants closed down .
On Thursday , Nissan also outlined plans to reduce the range of models of cars and trucks available in order to cut costs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of models from 69 to about 55 over the next few years , focusing instead on electric vehicles and sports cars .
Nissan said that worldwide sales of its vehicles between January and April had dropped by 31.1 % in comparison with the same period last year .
But even before the Covid-19 outbreak , Nissan 's sales and profits had been falling , forcing it to pull back from the ambitious expansion plan devised by now-ousted leader Carlos Ghosn .
The carmaker 's operating profit had tumbled for four years in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , particularly in America , leading to overcapacity at its car plants and steep discounts .
The pandemic added yet more pressure on the company to step up its cost-cutting efforts .
On Thursday the company said it was too difficult to forecast its performance in the next year due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Mr Uchida said that the firm 's key focus during the pandemic was now to `` pursue steady growth '' , instead of the massive sales expansion it pursued in the past .

The question may arise in the future - who is really in charge in Europe? If it's Renault, what does that mean for future investment in a post-Brexit UK? Nissan alone said it had capacity to make seven million cars when it only needs capacity for five million.


bbc--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Chechen leader Kadyrov 'healthy' after Covid scare

The powerful leader of Chechnya , Ramzan Kadyrov , has told an interviewer `` I 'm absolutely healthy '' , without denying reports that he was rushed to Moscow last week with suspected coronavirus .
An Instagram video on Wednesday showed a cheerful Mr Kadyrov being interviewed in a park by local state-run Grozny TV .
Earlier he was seen on TV chairing a government meeting on the coronavirus emergency measures in Chechnya .
A catheter was spotted on his right hand , but mostly the hand was hidden .
The Russian opposition newspaper Novaya Gazeta says footage where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down from the Grozny TV Instagram page , which is run by his aide , Akhmed Dudayev .
At that government meeting on Tuesday some of Mr Kadyrov 's aides wore masks and none was sitting close to him .
He kept his right hand hidden under the desk most of the time .
They described the coronavirus situation in Chechnya as `` stable '' .
Last week , Russian news agencies reported that Mr Kadyrov - a key ally of President Vladimir Putin - had been flown to a Moscow hospital from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was suspected to have Covid-19 .
His reappearance on Chechen media came after a six-day absence .
There was no official confirmation of his reported hospitalisation .
• Is Putin rushing Russia out of lockdown ?
In the interview with Akhmed Dudayev , Mr Kadyrov said : `` Do n't I have the right to fall ill ?
Do n't I have the right to have a catheter to boost my immunity ? ''
The much-feared Chechen leader , who has cracked down hard on all dissent , has imposed a strict version @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was highly unusual for him to miss the weekend 's Eid celebrations marking the end of Ramadan .
`` Even if I fell sick , in the world millions of people are infected with coronavirus , tens of thousands have died , and am I not human ? ''
he said .
He stretched out his hands for the camera - and this time no catheter was visible .
Mr Kadyrov 's own Instagram account , which had more than a million followers , was taken down by Facebook recently to comply with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close to President Putin .
Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin went into hospital last month after testing positive for coronavirus .
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also caught Covid-19 and was reported to be sick with double pneumonia , but on Monday he said he had been discharged from hospital .

At that government meeting on Tuesday some of Mr Kadyrov's aides wore masks and none was sitting close to him. He kept his right hand hidden under the desk most of the time. They described the coronavirus situation in Chechnya as "stable".


bbc--2020-05-28--Larry Kramer: Elton John leads tributes to playwright and Aids activist

Stars including Sir Elton John , Julia Roberts and Lin-Manuel Miranda have paid tribute to US playwright , author and Aids activist Larry Kramer .
Kramer died this week at the age of 84 .
He was a pivotal and confrontational figure during the Aids crisis in the 1980s , and depicted the era in his landmark 1985 play The Normal Heart .
Sir Elton John tweeted that it was `` the saddest news '' and that the world had `` lost a giant of a man who stood up for gay rights like a warrior '' .
Roberts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movie adaptation of The Normal Heart , told Variety : `` He was ferocious and tireless in his beliefs .
`` A true hero that so many people owe their lives to today .
I was honoured to spend time in his orbit . ''
Kramer had made his name as a screenwriter , earning an Oscar nomination in 1971 for adapting DH Lawrence 's Women in Love .
He also published the best-selling but controversial novel Faggots in 1977 .
At the start of the 1980s , he put his energies into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against HIV and Aids .
His other plays included 1992 's autobiographical The Destiny of Me .
Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda posted that the `` extraordinary writer '' touched the lives of all those who saw his work .
`` Thank you , Larry Kramer , '' he wrote .
`` Larry Kramer changed my core , '' said actress Ellen Barkin , who won a Tony Award in 2011 for her role in a Broadway revival of The Normal Heart .
Director and producer Ryan Murphy , who brought the groundbreaking play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as `` the single greatest and most important gay activist of all time '' .
Kramer first became aware of HIV and Aids after friends living next door in New York died .
`` No-one was saying anything , '' he later said .
`` I often make the comparison with a war reporter whose parachute drops behind enemy lines and he realises he 's faced with the greatest story he can tell .
I was not a political person before all this . ''
After a meeting of about 80 people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found Gay Men 's Health Crisis and began fundraising , campaigning and writing about the subject .
`` You should have seen the faces , '' he said of that meeting .
`` We all had friends who died ...
If one of us had it , we all had it . ''
He later formed Act Up , a radical protest group , and in 1989 learned he was HIV positive himself and suffering from liver damage .
He had a liver transplant in 2001 and was given experimental HIV drugs by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leading the fight against the coronavirus in the US .
Dr Fauci told the New York Times : `` Once you got past the rhetoric , you found that Larry Kramer made a lot of sense , and that he had a heart of gold . ''
Kramer 's friend and literary executor Will Schwalbe said the playwright 's death was not related to the Covid-19 pandemic .
Asked by the BBC World Service in 1995 whether it was possible to be both an activist and a writer , Kramer replied : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me all the time is why so few other writers are .
`` What annoys me so much about England and America is most of the writers are so removed from politics . ''
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bbc--2020-05-28--Policeman's video helps locate long-lost father

A TikTok video intended to encourage people to help the poor had an unintended result when it succeeded in reuniting a man with his family .
R Venkateshwarlu , who had been missing for two years , was seen in the video filmed under a flyover 2,000km ( 1,242 miles ) away from his home in Telangana .
A friend alerted the family who then contacted police in the northern state of Punjab to help reunite them .
`` I burst into tears when I first saw him , '' his son told BBC Telugu .
How did he go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hearing and speech difficulties , had lived all his life in a village in the southern state of Telangana .
He has a wife and five children and was employed as a labourer .
In April 2018 , he boarded a truck to go to another village for work .
`` My father fell asleep and the truck driver did n't know he was there .
Several kilometres later , the driver realised my father was in the truck and so he dropped him off on the middle of the road and left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ R Peddiraju , told the BBC .
Alone on an unfamiliar road , Mr Venkateshwarlu hoped to hitchhike home , and eventually found another truck willing to give him a ride .
But many hours later , he realised the vehicle was travelling in the opposite direction .
That driver dropped him off in Ludhiana , a large industrial city far away in the northern state of Punjab .
Mr Venkateshwarlu ended up living on food donations from locals .
His communication problems were compounded by the fact he does n't understand Punjabi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find him with the help of local police in Telangana - but drew a blank .
How was he found ?
It was a lucky twist of fate .
Ever since India went into lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19 , Punjab police constable Ajaib Singh had been going around Ludhiana to donate food and essential items to migrant workers and the poor .
His TikTok channel , which has more than 800,000 followers , features videos of charitable acts during the lockdown .
In one of his videos uploaded in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food to people living under a flyover in Ludhiana .
In Telangana , a friend of Mr Peddiraju who watched the video thought he recognised Mr Venkateshwarlu in it and alerted his family .
They got in touch with the Ludhiana police who then tracked down Mr Venkateshwarlu and got him on the phone to his son .
`` We both burst into tears when we first saw each other .
He asked me to come and take him home , signalling in his own way , '' his son said .
Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ once the lockdown was over .
`` But we could n't wait that long to see him so we managed to get a permit that would allow me to travel across states , '' Mr Peddiraju said .
Within a week , he was in Ludhiana with his father .
They got back to their village on Tuesday evening .
`` This is the first time that our father stayed away from us for this long .
He lived only on rotis for the last two years , which he was not used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The first thing we 'll do now is feed him homemade hot rice . ''

"My father fell asleep and the truck driver didn't know he was there. Several kilometres later, the driver realised my father was in the truck and so he dropped him off on the middle of the road and left him there," his son, R Peddiraju, told the BBC.


bbc--2020-05-28--Nasa SpaceX launch: Evolution of the spacesuit

The spacesuits worn by astronauts for the Crew Dragon mission have been getting a lot of attention .
How do they differ from other attire worn by astronauts down the years ?
The futuristic flight suits worn by Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken for Wednesday 's aborted launch look a world away from the bulky orange shuttle flight suits worn when astronauts last launched from Florida 's Kennedy Space Center .
The helmets are 3D-printed and the gloves are touchscreen-sensitive .
But their primary purpose remains the same - to protect crew members from depressurisation , where air is lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure that astronauts have sufficient oxygen and regulate temperature .
A communications link and breathable air are provided via a single `` umbilical '' cable in the seat that `` plugs in '' to the suit .
The Starman suits , as they 've been called , are all in one piece and customised for the astronaut .
Their look was conceived by Hollywood costume designer Jose Fernandez , who has worked on Captain America : Civil War and Batman v Superman : Dawn of Justice .
But the suits are just designed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known as the Crew Dragon .
They 're not suitable for use on spacewalks .
Aerospace giant Boeing also has a contract with Nasa to carry astronauts to the space station in its CST-100 Starliner spacecraft .
It has also developed a pressure suit to protect astronauts during the key phases of launch and re-entry .
The Boeing Blue suits are about 40 % lighter than earlier generations of spacesuits worn by American astronauts - and more flexible .
It contains a series of different internal layers to keep astronauts cool .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ astronauts can work with tablets in the spacecraft .
The suit 's soft , hood-like helmet features a wide polycarbonate visor to give Starliner passengers better peripheral vision throughout their ride to and from space .
Zips in the torso area will make it easier for astronauts to comfortably transition from sitting to standing .
In October 2019 , Nasa shared a close-up look at two next-generation suits for the agency 's Artemis programme .
Under this effort , Nasa will seek to return astronauts to the Moon by 2024 , using the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the suits is called the Orion Crew Survival System , and is comparable to the suits used by SpaceX and Boeing .
It recalls the so-called Pumpkin suits used by space shuttle astronauts , but is more lightweight .
The other suit , called the Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit ( xEMU ) suit is designed to be worn on the surface of the Moon .
It is much bulkier than the pressure suits designed to be worn inside spacecraft .
This is because it needs to protect the wearer from temperature extremes outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide some shielding against micrometeorites and other small particles of space debris .
In that respect , it is similar to suits previously used for spacewalking at the International Space Station .
There are two suits used for spacewalking at the ISS .
One is the Russian Orlan type , which was first used in December 1977 .
The Orlan is a one-piece spacesuit .
The `` backpack '' opens like a fridge door , allowing the spacewalker to climb inside .
Nasa 's Extravehicular Mobility Suit ( EMU ) was introduced in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for spacewalks at the ISS .
Unlike the Orlan , the EMU comes in two separate pieces - a bottom and top half .
The semi-rigid suit provides around 8.5 hours of life support for its wearer outside in the vacuum of space .
Astronauts travelling to the ISS train with both the EMU and Orlan suits .
The suits worn by Apollo astronauts on the Moon were also called the EMU .
It was the result of years of development .
Spacesuits have come a long way since the first spacewalk by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1965 .
Leonov 's suit inflated after he stepped out into the vacuum , so that his hands came out of his gloves .
Only by bleeding air out of the suit , which put the cosmonaut at risk of the bends , was he able to get back inside the spacecraft .
The Crew Dragon spacecraft 's next attempt at launch is set for Saturday at 15.22 EDT /20.22 BST from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida .

This is because it needs to protect the wearer from temperature extremes outside the walls of the spacecraft. It is also designed to provide some shielding against micrometeorites and other small particles of space debris. In these respects, it is similar to suits previously used for spacewalking at the International Space Station (ISS).


bbc--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Rugby league returns to Australia despite Covid-19 fears

On May 28 , the National Rugby League competition in Australia will resume .
The league is enforcing tough restrictions @ @ @ @ @ minimise the risks , amid fears the game is a perfect environment for coronavirus to @ @

On May 28, the National Rugby League competition in Australia will resume.
The league is enforcing tough restrictions on players and officials to minimise the risks, amid fears the game is a perfect environment for coronavirus to spread.


bbc--2020-05-28--Premier League clubs agree to resume contact training; four more positive coronavirus tests

Premier League clubs have unanimously voted to resume contact training as four more individuals from three sides have tested positive for coronavirus .
A total of 1,008 players and staff were tested in the third round of testing .
Phase two of 'Project Restart ' will see players `` train as a group and engage in tackling while minimising unnecessary close contact '' , the league said .
Discussions continue on plans to resume the season when `` conditions allow '' , it added .
So far 12 people have tested positive after 2,752 tests across the league .
Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be tested twice a week for coronavirus , with the capacity increased from 50 to 60 tests available per club for the fourth round of testing .
Any players or staff to test positive must self-isolate for a period of seven days .
The decision to return to contact training was agreed following consultation with clubs , players , managers , the Professional Footballers ' Association ( PFA ) , the League Managers ' Association ( LMA ) and the government .
Watford captain Troy Deeney , who had not joined his team-mates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his family 's health , is expected to resume his training next week .
Plans for the third phase of Project Restart include a step towards normal training and build-up to competitive games .
Speaking on Friday , Premier League chief executive Richard Masters told BBC Sport the league was `` as confident as we can be '' about resuming the season in June , with 92 fixtures still to play .
Squads started non-contact training last week for the first time since the Premier League was suspended on 13 March because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues on Thursday including the use of neutral stadiums , how to decide the season in the event of curtailment and voting on rebates to broadcasters .
This is a significant step on the timeline towards the resumption of the season , but brings with it a heightened risk of transmission .
This next stage would enable clubs to do 11 v 11 close-contact training , and clearly they will need to do that to get to a point where they are ready to play competitive matches again .
But it is yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to isolate if a player tests positive and had been training with several of their team-mates .
It is likely to come down to the type of contact and length of contact with that person , using GPS trackers to determine this .
Social distancing will still need to be maintained off the field , and players and staff will have to actively opt-in to agree to the strict requirements - but also the added risks - that come with entering this next phase .

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Premier League clubs have unanimously voted to resume contact training as four more individuals from three sides have tested positive for coronavirus.
A total of 1,008 players and staff were tested in the third round of testing.
Phase two of 'Project Restart' will see players "train as a group and engage in tackling while minimising unnecessary close contact", the league said.
Discussions continue on plans to resume the season when "conditions allow", it added.
So far 12 people have tested positive after 2,752 tests across the league.
Premier League players and staff will continue to be tested twice a week for coronavirus, with the capacity increased from 50 to 60 tests available per club for the fourth round of testing.
Any players or staff to test positive must self-isolate for a period of seven days.
The decision to return to contact training was agreed following consultation with clubs, players, managers, the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), the League Managers' Association (LMA) and the government.
Watford captain Troy Deeney, who had not joined his team-mates in returning to training over fears for his family's health, is expected to resume his training next week.
Plans for the third phase of Project Restart include a step towards normal training and build-up to competitive games.
Speaking on Friday, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters told BBC Sport the league was "as confident as we can be" about resuming the season in June, with 92 fixtures still to play.
Squads started non-contact training last week for the first time since the Premier League was suspended on 13 March because of the pandemic.
Clubs will discuss further issues on Thursday including the use of neutral stadiums, how to decide the season in the event of curtailment and voting on rebates to broadcasters.
Analysis - 'A significant step in Project Restart'
BBC Sports News correspondent Laura Scott
This is a significant step on the timeline towards the resumption of the season, but brings with it a heightened risk of transmission.
This next stage would enable clubs to do 11 v 11 close-contact training, and clearly they will need to do that to get to a point where they are ready to play competitive matches again.
But it is yet to be explained who else would need to isolate if a player tests positive and had been training with several of their team-mates. It is likely to come down to the type of contact and length of contact with that person, using GPS trackers to determine this.
Social distancing will still need to be maintained off the field, and players and staff will have to actively opt-in to agree to the strict requirements - but also the added risks - that come with entering this next phase.


bbc--2020-05-28--Championship: Two Fulham players among three coronavirus positive tests

Two Fulham players are among three individuals who have tested positive for coronavirus in the latest round of testing for @ @ @ @ @ , Tuesday and Wednesday 1,030 players and staff were tested .
It comes after two @ @ @ @ @ to have the virus on Sunday after the previous round of testing .
Championship clubs @ @ @ @ @ non-contact training on Monday - the first step towards the potential resumption of the season @ @ @ @ @ remain unnamed because of medical confidentiality , and are self-isolating in line with English Football @ @ @ @ @ It is not known which club has the third positive test , or whether they @ @ @ @ @ of staff .
However , Hull have confirmed they have no new positive cases .
@ @ @ @ @ played since 8 March , with the season suspended five days later .
There has @ @ @ @ @ for a resumption , although the EFL said in a statement last week that Championship @ @ @ @ @ it is their wish to play on and conclude the season '' .

Last updated on .From the section Championship
Elliott Bennett joined Blackburn from Norwich City in January 2016
Blackburn captain Elliott Bennett and two unnamed Fulham players have tested positive for coronavirus in the latest round of testing in the Championship.
Rovers said midfielder Bennett, 31, was "asymptomatic and feeling no ill effects".
Across Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 1,030 players and staff were tested, with three positive results returned.
Two people at Hull were confirmed to have the virus on Sunday after the previous round of testing.
Championship clubs were allowed to return to non-contact training on Monday - the first step towards the potential resumption of the season.
Both Fulham players will remain unnamed because of medical confidentiality, and are self-isolating in line with English Football League and government guidance.
Blackburn said, providing he develops no symptoms, Bennett will return to training on Friday, 5 June.
"I feel fit and healthy," Bennett told the club's website. external-link "Hopefully this sends out a positive message to the community that perhaps many people have or have had the virus without showing any effects.
"I obviously would never have known if we hadn't returned to training and taken the tests, because I don't feel unwell and have got no symptoms whatsoever.
"There seems to have been a lot of hysteria about footballers returning to training, but it's not a big deal at all. It's the people who are seriously ill in hospital that we need to worry about, not footballers who are fit and healthy, and who aren't showing any signs of being unwell."
No Championship matches have been played since 8 March, with the season suspended five days later.
There has been no specific date set for a resumption, although the EFL said in a statement earlier this month that Championship clubs have "indicated that it is their wish to play on and conclude the season".


bbc--2020-05-28--2020 Dutch Grand Prix cancelled because of coronavirus pandemic

The 2020 Dutch Grand Prix has been cancelled because of the global coronavirus pandemic .
The race - returning to the Formula 1 calendar for the first time since 1985 - was due to be held on 3 May but was initially postponed .
`` We were completely ready for this race and we still are , '' said Dutch Grand Prix sports director Jan Lammers .
`` We ask everyone to be patient .
I had to look forward to it for 35 years , so I can wait another year .
`` We and Formula 1 have investigated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year without spectators , but we would like to celebrate this moment , the return of Formula 1 in Zandvoort , together with our racing fans in the Netherlands . ''
• A Silverstone bonanza and desert double for the 2020 season ?
F1 bosses are still in the process of putting together a revised calendar for this season .
Two races at Silverstone have been agreed - provided the British government 's quarantine rules can exempt major sporting events .
Belgium is another one of the countries at which F1 hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was agreed before the Silverstone deal .
Among the other potential hosts are the tracks originally intended to hold races this year in Spain , Hungary , France and Italy .
Hockenheim in Germany , which was not on the original schedule , is on standby in case there is a vacant slot other tracks can not fill .
Each of the 10 teams will be limited to a maximum of 80 people each at races held without spectators when the delayed season gets going in July .

Last updated on .From the section Formula 1
The race was set to take place at the historic Zandvoort circuit
The 2020 Dutch Grand Prix has been cancelled because of the global coronavirus pandemic.
The race - returning to the Formula 1 calendar for the first time since 1985 - was due to be held on 3 May but was initially postponed.
"We were completely ready for this race and we still are," said Dutch Grand Prix sports director Jan Lammers.
"We ask everyone to be patient. I had to look forward to it for 35 years, so I can wait another year.
"We and Formula 1 have investigated the potential to hold a rescheduled race this year without spectators, but we would like to celebrate this moment, the return of Formula 1 in Zandvoort, together with our racing fans in the Netherlands."
F1 bosses are still in the process of putting together a revised calendar for this season.
Two races at Silverstone have been agreed - provided the British government's quarantine rules can exempt major sporting events.
Belgium is another one of the countries at which F1 hopes to hold a race, after Austria was agreed before the Silverstone deal.
Among the other potential hosts are the tracks originally intended to hold races this year in Spain, Hungary, France and Italy.
Hockenheim in Germany, which was not on the original schedule, is on standby in case there is a vacant slot other tracks cannot fill.
Each of the 10 teams will be limited to a maximum of 80 people each at races held without spectators when the delayed season gets going in July.


bbc--2020-05-28--Bundesliga: How successful has the league's return been?

With the rest of Europe 's top leagues on hiatus , the Bundesliga is the centre of attention in the world of football .
Despite some criticism from fans and politicians , the return of the league has been a major success for clubs and broadcasters .
After the Bundesliga made its decision to return to action and got the go-ahead from the authorities , the league was under fire from politicians , journalists and fans for weeks .
A survey by research institute Infratest dimap , carried out on behalf of broadcaster DW in late April , revealed 49 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the season .
The fear was that players and staff would get infected and that the Bundesliga could potentially contribute to a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic .
`` The hygiene concept does not work .
The effect will be disastrous , '' predicted Karl Lauterbach , a health expert representing the Social Democrats in Germany 's national parliament .
• Five takeaways from the return of the Bundesliga But , so far , all fears have been proven wrong .
Almost all Covid-19 tests from players and staff have come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the only team from the Bundesliga or Bundesliga 2 who had to quarantine because of multiple infections .
The German Football League ( DFL ) , which is responsible for operating the two divisions , did not panic about the situation in Dresden .
`` I do n't see it as a setback , because we expected that something like this could happen , '' chief executive Christian Seifert said .
`` We still have a buffer to stage more matches in the next couple of weeks . ''
The only controversy the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the restart , occurred when some teams started ignoring physical distancing rules .
The league 's hygiene protocol recommends physical distancing as much as possible when the ball is not rolling .
That has made for some awkward moments when players , seconds after they had close body-to-body contact with their opponents , were asked to stay apart from each other and only tap elbows to celebrate a goal .
Hertha Berlin were the first team to throw caution out the window when , on the first matchday after the break , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hugging , high fiving , and shoulder tapping , causing concern among political decision-makers about how disciplined the players could be .
`` I did n't like that .
You know that many things related to football have engendered criticism , '' commented Markus Soder , state premier of Bavaria .
Soder was among the early supporters of the Bundesliga restart , but he knew that pictures of hugging players could backfire .
If a player tests positive for Covid-19 , the local health authorities will decide whether only the player or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look at evidence such as video footage to figure out how much close face-to-face contact others had with the infected individual .
Other teams have celebrated just as exuberantly .
As comprehensive as the hygiene protocol is , instinct tells players that once they are on the field things are as they were before the pandemic .
`` You ca n't hide your emotions , '' said goalscorer Vedad Ibisevic after Hertha 's match against Hoffenheim .
`` I asked our doctor before the game whether the goal counts if we do that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me .
We are passionate footballers and not robots . ''
The actual football has not changed much .
Following a slow start with several muscle injuries , the tempo and fitness levels have visibly increased to a level close to what they were in February and March .
Without crowds , home advantage has been eliminated while the actual playing time is higher than in matches with crowds because of shorter interruptions .
Players do not perform for the audience , approaching the games more like practice matches with fewer theatrics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how much risk players take .
`` It is a chance for the training champions , '' Bayern Munich legend Franz Beckenbauer said .
He believes those who normally shine in practice and then falter under the pressure of competitive matches can come into their own in this environment .
During the first three matchdays , there were more stepovers and back-heel flicks but also more backward passes to goalkeepers than usual .
`` It is now important the players push themselves , '' Bayern 's head coach Hansi Flick said last weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a positive impact and motivate them . ''
He and his colleagues have the advantage that their instructions can be heard right across the pitch .
Some leaders on the field have also benefited from the silence , allowing them to communicate with team-mates more clearly .
`` If you play in front of 81,000 fans , you have no chance to give instructions to the midfielders , '' Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Burki said .
`` Now , Mats Hummels as our chief defender or I can sometimes conduct the midfield .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an opponent behind them . ''
While the experience for television viewers might not be perfect , the ratings for Sky Germany , the main television rights-holder , have been record-breaking , with over six million tuning in to watch the first few matches after the break on 16 May , a market share of over 60 % among 14 to 49-year-olds .
A week later , with the novelty gone , a still-impressive three million were watching the Saturday games .
The numbers could be regarded as outliers because a portion of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free TV and not only on their subscription channels .
But the restart has paid off for the company , which continues to adjust the broadcasts , experimenting with artificial crowd noises to combat the silence .
Everyone from the club officials to the television directors knows that the current situation can only be temporary because crowds are one of the Bundesliga 's biggest assets .
So far , fans have been split on how to treat this `` ghost games '' era .
While the television ratings indicate that many are happy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , active fan groups have been very vocal about their disdain for the decision to continue .
Banners criticising the `` greed '' of the Bundesliga 's power brokers have been seen across the country .
Clubs asked supporter groups to send them their banners and flags before home games , and most clubs even put the ones with critical messages inside the stadiums to give their fans a platform .
Supporters of FC Cologne protested more creatively by placing a couch outside the RheinEnergieStadion , writing : `` Stadiums instead of couches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall on deaf ears .
`` If you stage matches without crowds , some may realise how important fans are inside the stadiums , '' Cologne manager Horst Heldt said recently .
But he agrees with the other managers and chief executives in the Bundesliga that the season should be completed as scheduled because the clubs have done a remarkable job and made the best out of a difficult situation so far .

Bayern Munich beat Borussia Dortmund behind closed doors to move seven points clear at the top of the Bundesliga on Tuesday
With the rest of Europe's top leagues on hiatus, the Bundesliga is the centre of attention in the world of football.
Despite some criticism from fans and politicians, the return of the league has been a major success for clubs and broadcasters.
After the Bundesliga made its decision to return to action and got the go-ahead from the authorities, the league was under fire from politicians, journalists and fans for weeks.
A survey by research institute Infratest dimap, carried out on behalf of broadcaster DW in late April, revealed 49% of Germans were against the continuation of the season.
The fear was that players and staff would get infected and that the Bundesliga could potentially contribute to a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. "The hygiene concept does not work. The effect will be disastrous," predicted Karl Lauterbach, a health expert representing the Social Democrats in Germany's national parliament.
But, so far, all fears have been proven wrong. Almost all Covid-19 tests from players and staff have come back negative. Dynamo Dresden have been the only team from the Bundesliga or Bundesliga 2 who had to quarantine because of multiple infections.
The German Football League (DFL), which is responsible for operating the two divisions, did not panic about the situation in Dresden. "I don't see it as a setback, because we expected that something like this could happen," chief executive Christian Seifert said. "We still have a buffer to stage more matches in the next couple of weeks."
Controversial goal celebrations
Hertha Berlin players broke social distancing rules when they celebrated their goals in the win over Hoffenheim on their return to action
The only controversy the DFL had to deal with, early after the restart, occurred when some teams started ignoring physical distancing rules.
The league's hygiene protocol recommends physical distancing as much as possible when the ball is not rolling. That has made for some awkward moments when players, seconds after they had close body-to-body contact with their opponents, were asked to stay apart from each other and only tap elbows to celebrate a goal.
Hertha Berlin were the first team to throw caution out the window when, on the first matchday after the break, they celebrated their goals against Hoffenheim with hugging, high fiving, and shoulder tapping, causing concern among political decision-makers about how disciplined the players could be.
"I didn't like that. You know that many things related to football have engendered criticism," commented Markus Soder, state premier of Bavaria. Soder was among the early supporters of the Bundesliga restart, but he knew that pictures of hugging players could backfire.
If a player tests positive for Covid-19, the local health authorities will decide whether only the player or the entire team has to quarantine. They look at evidence such as video footage to figure out how much close face-to-face contact others had with the infected individual.
Other teams have celebrated just as exuberantly. As comprehensive as the hygiene protocol is, instinct tells players that once they are on the field things are as they were before the pandemic.
"You can't hide your emotions," said goalscorer Vedad Ibisevic after Hertha's match against Hoffenheim. "I asked our doctor before the game whether the goal counts if we do that. That was the most important thing to me. We are passionate footballers and not robots."
Practice-like atmosphere
The actual football has not changed much. Following a slow start with several muscle injuries, the tempo and fitness levels have visibly increased to a level close to what they were in February and March.
Without crowds, home advantage has been eliminated while the actual playing time is higher than in matches with crowds because of shorter interruptions. Players do not perform for the audience, approaching the games more like practice matches with fewer theatrics.
The lack of crowds also affects how much risk players take. "It is a chance for the training champions," Bayern Munich legend Franz Beckenbauer said. He believes those who normally shine in practice and then falter under the pressure of competitive matches can come into their own in this environment.
Bayer Levurkusen's Kai Havertz scores from the penalty spot in front of Borussia Monchengladbach's cardboard cut-out fans
During the first three matchdays, there were more stepovers and back-heel flicks but also more backward passes to goalkeepers than usual.
"It is now important the players push themselves," Bayern's head coach Hansi Flick said last weekend. "The bench can also have a positive impact and motivate them." He and his colleagues have the advantage that their instructions can be heard right across the pitch.
Some leaders on the field have also benefited from the silence, allowing them to communicate with team-mates more clearly. "If you play in front of 81,000 fans, you have no chance to give instructions to the midfielders," Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Burki said. "Now, Mats Hummels as our chief defender or I can sometimes conduct the midfield. Or we warn team-mates when they have an opponent behind them."
Record-breaking television ratings
While the experience for television viewers might not be perfect, the ratings for Sky Germany, the main television rights-holder, have been record-breaking, with over six million tuning in to watch the first few matches after the break on 16 May, a market share of over 60% among 14 to 49-year-olds. A week later, with the novelty gone, a still-impressive three million were watching the Saturday games.
The numbers could be regarded as outliers because a portion of the matches were available on Sky's free TV and not only on their subscription channels. But the restart has paid off for the company, which continues to adjust the broadcasts, experimenting with artificial crowd noises to combat the silence.
Everyone from the club officials to the television directors knows that the current situation can only be temporary because crowds are one of the Bundesliga's biggest assets. So far, fans have been split on how to treat this "ghost games" era.
While the television ratings indicate that many are happy to watch football even without stadium atmosphere, active fan groups have been very vocal about their disdain for the decision to continue.
Banners criticising the "greed" of the Bundesliga's power brokers have been seen across the country. Clubs asked supporter groups to send them their banners and flags before home games, and most clubs even put the ones with critical messages inside the stadiums to give their fans a platform.
Supporters of FC Cologne protested more creatively by placing a couch outside the RheinEnergieStadion, writing: "Stadiums instead of couches." Their criticism will probably not fall on deaf ears. "If you stage matches without crowds, some may realise how important fans are inside the stadiums," Cologne manager Horst Heldt said recently.
But he agrees with the other managers and chief executives in the Bundesliga that the season should be completed as scheduled because the clubs have done a remarkable job and made the best out of a difficult situation so far.


bbc--2020-05-28--Reducing scrums and speeding up rucks among 10 optional law trials approved by World Rugby

Drastically reducing the amount of scrums during a game , removing the choke tackle , limiting numbers in the maul and speeding up rucks are among 10 optional law trials approved by World Rugby to help reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission in the sport .
A number of hygiene procedures for training and matches have also been formally recommended by rugby union 's world governing body .
Implementation of the measures will be at the discretion of individual unions based on the prevalence of the virus in their territory and specific government advice .
`` We have extensively evaluated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said World Rugby boss Sir Bill Beaumont .
The law trials were drawn up after an analysis of 60 matches by the governing body 's Law Review Group , which comprises coaches , players , match officials , medics and law specialists .
However the group decided against compulsory global application of the trials given the variation of coronavirus across nations .
World Rugby expect the trials to apply more to the community game than the elite end , where testing is likely to be more widespread , although the introduction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specific to the professional game .
• Taking away the option of a scrum for a penalty , a free-kick , or when an attacker is held-up in-goal .
• Reinforcing high tackle guidelines to reduce face-to-face contact and the introduction of an `` orange card '' for potential red-card offences .
• The player is removed with the offence checked by the Television Match Official .
If deemed a red card offence , the player does n't return .
If not , they return after 15 minutes .
• Removing the choke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tackle '' rather than a `` maul '' .
• Awarding a free-kick rather than a scrum for when a team fails to `` use it '' at a scrum , ruck , or maul .
• Speeding up rucks by cutting the `` use it '' time from 5 seconds to 3 seconds .
• Restricting the number of players who can join a maul and the time spent in the maul .
With tight-five forwards considered most at risk of transmission , World Rugby estimate that the changes could reduce scrum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , reduce contact exposure at the ruck by around 25 % , and reduce maul contact exposure by at least 50 % .
Hygiene measures being recommended include hand and face sanitisation before and after a match , and ball washing before , during and after games .
Where possible , players will be asked to change their kit at half-time , and have been advised to refrain from team huddles and close-contact celebration , as well as spitting and nose clearance .
In training , scrum practice should be against a machine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and high-transmission risk training , such as scrummaging and mauling , should be avoided within 48 hours of a match .
The Rugby Football Union say they `` recognise the work World Rugby has done '' , but will be issuing their own advice to clubs in due course .
`` The RFU has its own review underway looking at the options for return to training and return to play rugby for clubs in England , '' said an RFU spokesperson .
`` When government advice on social distancing measures are lifted , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided to clubs . ''
The Rugby Football Union say they `` recognise the work World Rugby has done '' but will be issuing their own advice to clubs in due course .
`` The RFU has its own review underway , looking at the options for return to training and return to playing rugby for clubs in England , '' said an RFU spokesperson .
`` When government advice on social distancing measures are lifted , specific RFU guidance will be announced and provided to clubs . ''

Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union
The law trials are optional given the variation of coronavirus across nations
Drastically reducing the number of scrums during a game, removing the choke tackle, limiting numbers in the maul and speeding up rucks are among 10 optional law trials approved by World Rugby to help reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission in the sport.
A number of hygiene procedures for training and matches have also been formally recommended by rugby union's world governing body.
Implementation of the measures will be at the discretion of individual unions based on the prevalence of the virus in their territory and specific government advice.
"We have extensively evaluated the perceived risk areas within the game," said World Rugby boss Sir Bill Beaumont.
The law trials were drawn up after an analysis of 60 matches by the governing body's Law Review Group, which comprises coaches, players, match officials, medics and law specialists.
However, the group decided against compulsory global application of the trials given the variation of coronavirus across nations.
World Rugby expect the trials to apply more to the community game than the elite end, where testing is likely to be more widespread, although the introduction of an "orange card" is specific to the professional game.
Among the law trials:
Removing scrum resets.
Taking away the option of a scrum for a penalty, a free-kick, or when an attacker is held-up in-goal.
Reinforcing high tackle guidelines to reduce face-to-face contact and the introduction of an "orange card" for potential red-card offences.
The player is removed with the offence checked by the Television Match Official. If deemed a red card offence, the player doesn't return. If not, they return after 15 minutes.
Removing the choke tackle, with referees calling a "tackle" rather than a "maul".
Awarding a free-kick rather than a scrum for when a team fails to "use it" at a scrum, ruck, or maul.
Speeding up rucks by cutting the "use it" time from 5 seconds to 3 seconds.
Restricting the number of players who can join a maul and the time spent in the maul.
With tight-five forwards considered most at risk of transmission, World Rugby estimate that the changes could reduce scrum contact exposure by more than 30%, reduce contact exposure at the ruck by around 25%, and reduce maul contact exposure by at least 50%.
Hygiene measures being recommended include hand and face sanitisation before and after a match, and ball washing before, during and after games.
Where possible, players will be asked to change their kit at half-time, and have been advised to refrain from team huddles and close-contact celebration, as well as spitting and nose clearance.
In training, scrum practice should be against a machine rather than another set of forwards, and high-transmission risk training, such as scrummaging and mauling, should be avoided within 48 hours of a match.
The Rugby Football Union says it "recognises the work World Rugby has done", but will be issuing its own advice to clubs in due course.
"The RFU has its own review under way looking at the options for return to training and return to play rugby for clubs in England," said an RFU spokesperson.
"When government advice on social distancing measures are lifted, specific RFU guidance will be announced and provided to clubs."


bbc--2020-05-28--George Floyd: National Guard deployed after Minneapolis clashes

The US National Guard has been deployed to Minneapolis after two nights of violent clashes following the death of an unarmed black man in police custody .
George Floyd , 46 , died on Monday and video showed him gasping for breath as a white policeman knelt on his neck .
Police fired tear gas at protesters as businesses were looted on Wednesday .
More protests are planned for Thursday .
There have also been protests in Chicago , Illinois , Los Angeles , California , and Memphis , Tennessee .
The killing added to longstanding anger over the police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recent cases of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia and Breonna Taylor in Kentucky .
• Viewpoint : Why racism is worse in the US than Europe Minnesota Governor Tim Walz activated the state 's national guard troops on Thursday at the request of the mayors of Minneapolis and nearby St Paul , declaring the situation a `` peacetime emergency '' .
He said the looting , vandalism and arson of a night earlier had resulted in damage to many businesses , including ones owned by minorities .
`` George Floyd 's death should lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more death and destruction , '' he said in a statement calling on all protests to remain peaceful .
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called on Wednesday for criminal charges against the policeman who was filmed pinning down Mr Floyd .
Four police officers involved in the arrest have already been fired .
The incident echoes the case of Eric Garner , who was placed in a police chokehold in New York in 2014 .
His death became a rallying cry against police brutality and a catalyst in the Black Lives Matter movement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ began in the afternoon on Tuesday , when hundreds of people came to the intersection where the incident had taken place .
Organisers tried to keep the protest peaceful and maintain coronavirus social distancing , with demonstrators chanting `` I ca n't breathe '' and `` it could 've been me '' .
During the second night of demonstrations on Wednesday , the crowd grew into the thousands , with protesters pelting rocks and some throwing tear-gas canisters back at police .
There was a standoff outside the police station where officers formed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entry .
'This is how they 're going to listen' The morning after a violent and destructive night across this city , the air was thick with acrid smoke as buildings continued to smoulder .
Fresh graffiti covers nearly every wall , sign and surface .
Bus stop shelters are skeletal with their glass walls completely shattered .
This thriving commercial corner of the city has taken on the look of a war zone .
Much of the worst damage was concentrated around the Minneapolis Police Department 's 3rd Precinct , where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Floyd are believed to have worked .
At least 100 demonstrators gathered once again this morning , shouting at a line of silent , helmeted police officers blocking the entrance to the precinct 's parking lot .
Armed officers watched from the roof .
The car park of a looted Target was strewn with debris from inside the store , and people were still freely going in and out of smashed windows and doors , though it appeared to be more out of curiosity than anything .
Everyone seemed agog at the extent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indiscriminate .
Banks , cheque cashing shops and liquor stores were hit , but the windows of a public library branch were also smashed in , the bookshelves and reading desks scattered with glittering fragments .
The classrooms of a charter school in the same strip mall complex as the Target were under several inches of water , as a security alarm droned on from somewhere .
Anger in the streets was palpable .
Periodically there were shouts and wails .
It seems a foregone conclusion that demonstrations will continue for days if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow .
As one protester told me : `` It 's sad .
But this is how they 're going to listen . ''
Mr Floyd 's brother , Philonise Floyd , told CNN on Thursday he hoped the officers involved got the death penalty .
`` I 'm never gon na get my brother back , '' he said .
`` We need justice . ''
Speaking through tears , he said the officers who `` executed my brother in broad daylight '' must be arrested and that he was `` tired @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added that he understood why protesters were lashing out .
`` I ca n't stop people right now because they have pain - they have the same pain that I feel . ''
Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo apologised for the `` pain , devastation and trauma '' caused by Mr Floyd 's death and said his department had contributed to `` a deficit of hope '' in the city .
United Nations human rights chief Michelle Bachelet has also condemned Mr Floyd 's death , saying the role of `` entrenched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognised and dealt with .
She called for protesters to act peacefully , and for police to `` take utmost care not to inflame the current situation even more '' .
President Donald Trump `` was very upset '' when he saw the footage of Mr Floyd 's death , White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany told reporters on Thursday .
`` He wants justice to be served . ''
A number of celebrities and athletes , including John Boyega , LeBron James , Beyonce , and Justin Bieber , have also expressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reports of the use of counterfeit money approached Mr Floyd in his vehicle on Monday .
According to police , he was told to step away from the car , physically resisted officers and was handcuffed .
The police statement noted his apparent `` medical distress '' .
Video of the incident does not show how the confrontation started .
A white officer can be seen using his knee to pin Mr Floyd to the ground by the neck as Mr Floyd groans `` please , I ca n't breathe '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The city has identified the four officers involved as Derek Chauvin , Tou Thao , Thomas Lane and J Alexander Kueng .
Local media have named Mr Chauvin as the officer seen with his knee on Mr Floyd 's neck .
The Minneapolis Police Officers Federation said the officers were co-operating with the investigation .
In a statement to local media , the union said `` now is not the time to rush to judgment '' .
`` We must review all video .
We must wait for the medical examiner 's report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Derek Chauvin , 44 - had previously been involved in three other police shootings and had 17 complaints filed against him over his 19-year career , according to the Associated Press .

Are you in the area? If you have any information you are willing to share with the BBC you can get in touch by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.


bbc--2020-05-28--Moscow more than doubles city's Covid-19 death toll

Moscow 's authorities have more than doubled the official death toll from Covid-19 in the Russian capital for the month of April .
The city 's health department now says 1,561 people died from the disease - not 639 as initially announced .
The department stressed that the new tally included even the most `` controversial , debatable '' cases .
When local reporters had said the official numbers were too low they were accused of fake news and distortion .
Russia has currently nearly 380,000 confirmed infections - the world 's third highest number behind the US and Brazil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death toll is only 4,142 .
The government says the country 's mass testing programme is responsible for that low mortality rate - but many believe the numbers are in fact far higher .
In a separate development on Thursday , a group of well-known Russian journalists were arrested in Moscow as they took part in single-person protests over a 15-day jail term handed down to a colleague .
The journalists accused police of using the Covid-19 outbreak to crack down on activists .
Most have since been released , but charged with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Moscow health department said the death toll was revised following post-mortem examinations .
They had confirmed coronavirus as the cause of death in 169 cases where tests had initially been negative .
In addition , 756 people who died of other causes in April had tested positive for coronavirus .
The officials said in many cases here the virus was a significant factor , playing the role of a `` catalyst '' .
This new methodology is likely to mean the death toll will increase across the country , although Moscow was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks , the BBC 's Sarah Rainsford in the Russian capital reports .
The Moscow health department stressed that even the new count put the Covid-19 mortality rate for the city at under 3 % - suggesting that was well below comparable cities , our correspondent says .
But the authorities also conceded that the figures for May would be higher .
• EUROPE 'S EASING : How lockdown is being lifted • THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • RECOVERY : How long does it take to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : What are the symptoms ?

This new methodology is likely to mean the death toll will increase across the country, although Moscow was the epicentre of the epidemic for many weeks, the BBC's Sarah Rainsford reports.


bbc--2020-05-28--Trump signs executive order targeting Twitter after fact-checking row

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at removing some of the legal protections given to social media platforms .
It gives regulators the power to pursue legal actions against firms such as Facebook and Twitter for the way they police content on their platforms .
President Trump accused social media platforms of having `` unchecked power '' while signing the order .
The order is expected to face legal challenges .
Legal experts says the US Congress or the court system must be involved to change the current legal understanding of protections for these platforms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ platforms of stifling or censoring conservative voices .
On Wednesday , Mr Trump accused Twitter of election interference , after it added fact-check links to two of his tweets .
On Thursday , Twitter added `` get the facts about Covid-19 '' tags to two tweets from a Chinese government spokesman who claimed the coronavirus had originated in the US .
What does the executive order say ?
The order sets out to clarify the Communications Decency Act , a US law that offers online platforms such as Facebook , Twitter and YouTube @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Section 230 of the law , social networks are not generally held responsible for content posted by their users , but can engage in `` good-Samaritan blocking '' , such as removing content that is obscene , harassing or violent .
The executive order points out that this legal immunity does not apply if a social network edits content posted by its users , and calls for legislation from Congress to `` remove or change '' section 230 .
Mr Trump said Attorney General William Barr will `` immediately '' begin crafting a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It also says `` deceptive '' blocking of posts , including removing a post for reasons other than those described in a website 's terms of service , should not be offered immunity .
Republican senator Marco Rubio is among those arguing that the platforms take on the role of a `` publisher '' when they add fact-check labels to specific posts .
`` The law still protects social media companies like Twitter because they are considered forums not publishers , '' Mr Rubio said .
`` But if they have now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a publisher , then they should no longer be shielded from liability and treated as publishers under the law . ''
The executive order also calls for : • the Federal Communications Commission ( FCC ) to spell out what type of content blocking will be considered deceptive , pretextual or inconsistent with a service provider 's terms and conditions • a review of government advertising on social-media sites and whether those platforms impose viewpoint-based restrictions • the re-establishment of the White House `` tech bias reporting tool '' that lets citizens report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will the order have ?
Donald Trump promised `` big action '' in response to Twitter 's decision to append a fact-check message to two of his posts .
While his announcement of an executive order was heavy on rhetoric - accusing social media companies of being monopolies that threaten free speech - it will be a long process before the talk turns into real action , big or otherwise .
Independent government agencies will have to review federal law , promulgate new regulations , vote on them and then - in all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ By the time it 's all over , the November presidential election could have come and gone .
That explains why Trump is also pushing for new congressional legislation - a more straightforward way of changing US policy toward social media companies .
The real purpose of the president 's order , however , may be symbolic .
At the very least , the move will cause Twitter to think twice about attempting to moderate or fact-check his posts on their service .
The president relies on Twitter to get his message out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If Twitter itself start blunting one of his favourite communication tools , he is sending a message that he will push back - and make things , at a minimum , uncomfortable for the company .
How have the social networks responded ?
Twitter , which is repeatedly named in the draft of the executive order , declined to comment .
Google , which owns YouTube , said changing Section 230 would `` hurt America 's economy and its global leadership on internet freedom . ''
`` We have clear content policies and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ viewpoint .
Our platforms have empowered a wide range of people and organizations from across the political spectrum , giving them a voice and new ways to reach their audiences , '' firm said in a statement to the BBC .
In an interview with Fox News on Wednesday , Facebook 's chief executive , Mark Zuckerberg , said censoring a social media platform would not be the `` right reflex '' for a government concerned about censorship .
`` I just believe strongly that Facebook should n't be the arbiter of truth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said Mr Zuckerberg .
`` I think in general private companies probably should n't be - especially these platform companies - should n't be in the position of doing that . ''
One conservative think tank warned the executive order could have unintended consequences .
`` In the long run , this conservative campaign against social media companies could have a devastating effect on the freedom of speech , '' said Matthew Feeney of the Cato Institute .
And changing the Communications Decency Act to `` impose political neutrality on social media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with `` legal content they 'd otherwise like to remove '' such as pornography , violent imagery and racism .
`` Or they would screen content to a degree that would kill the free flow of information on social media that we 're used to today , '' he said .
Mr Feeney said the draft of the executive order was a `` mess '' but could prove politically popular in the run-up to a presidential election .
The long-running dispute between Mr Trump and social media companies flared up again on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given a fact-check label by Twitter for the first time .
He had tweeted , without providing evidence : `` There is no way ( zero ) that mail-in ballots will be anything less than substantially fraudulent . ''
Twitter added a warning label to the post and linked to a page describing the claims as `` unsubstantiated '' .
Then on Wednesday , Mr Trump threatened to `` strongly regulate '' social-media platforms .
He tweeted to his more than 80 million followers that Republicans felt the platforms `` totally silence conservatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow this to happen .
In an earlier tweet , he said Twitter was `` completely stifling free speech '' .
Twitter 's chief executive , Jack Dorsey , responded to criticism of the platform 's fact-checking policies in a series of posts , saying : `` We 'll continue to point out incorrect or disputed information about elections globally . ''
Mr Trump wrote a similar post about mail-in ballots on Facebook on Tuesday , and no such warnings were applied .
Twitter has tightened its policies in recent years , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed fake accounts and misinformation to thrive .

Donald Trump promised "big action" in response to Twitter's decision to append a fact-check message to two of his posts. While his announcement of an executive order was heavy on rhetoric - accusing social media companies of being monopolies that threaten free speech - it will be a long process before the talk turns into real action, big or otherwise.


bbc--2020-05-28--UK could offer 'path to citizenship' for Hong Kong's British passport holders

The UK could offer British National ( Overseas ) passport holders in Hong Kong a path to UK citizenship if China does not suspend plans for a security law in the territory , UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab says .
There are 300,000 BNO passport holders in Hong Kong .
They have the right to visit the UK for up to six months without a visa .
Mr Raab 's statement came after the UK , US , Australia and Canada issued joint condemnation of Beijing 's security law .
The law - which has been passed by China 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to undermine Beijing 's authority in Hong Kong .
The four nations said imposing the security law would undermine the `` one country , two systems '' framework agreed before Hong Kong was handed over from British to Chinese rule in 1997 .
It guaranteed Hong Kong some autonomy and afforded rights and freedoms that do not exist in mainland China .
• China 's new law : Why is Hong Kong worried ?
China has rejected foreign criticism of the law .
What did Raab say ?
British National ( Overseas ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kong by the UK before the transfer of the territory to Chinese sovereignty in 1997 .
Announcing the possible change in policy , Mr Raab said the six-month limit on stays in the UK for BNO holders would be scrapped .
`` If China continues down this path and implements this national security legislation , we will remove that six month limit and allow those BNO passport holders to come to the UK and to apply to work and study for extendable periods of 12 months and that will itself provide a pathway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The BBC 's diplomatic correspondent James Landale says that in Beijing the threat will be seen as an escalation and is likely to prompt a robust response .
China might not mind if some pro-democracy campaigners escape to the UK but the flight of talented wealth creators would be of concern , our correspondent says .
Some MPs want the UK to go further and offer automatic citizenship .
Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat , chairman of the foreign affairs select committee , said BNO holders should have an automatic right to live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government has in the past rejected calls to give BNO holders in Hong Kong full citizenship .
Last year more than 100,000 people in Hong Kong signed a petition calling for full rights .
The government responded by saying that only UK citizens and certain Commonwealth citizens had the right of abode in the UK and cited a 2007 review which said giving BNO holders full citizenship would be a breach of the agreement under which the UK handed Hong Kong back to China .
However in 1972 the UK offered asylum to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passports after the then-military ruler Idi Amin ordered about 60,000 Asians to leave .
At the time some MPs said India should take responsibility for the refugees , but Prime Minister Edward Heath said the UK had a duty to accept them .
What other reaction has there been ?
Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy earlier said the UK had to be more robust with Beijing .
Referring to the security law , she told the BBC : `` This is the latest in a series of attempts by China to start to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Chinese government when we handed over Hong Kong , and protected its special status . ''
`` We want to see the UK government really step up now , '' she said .
Former Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the UK should bring together a coalition of countries to avoid a tragedy in the territory .
He told the BBC : `` This is definitely the most dangerous period there has ever been in terms of that agreement .
`` With our unique legal situation , Britain does have a responsibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to do what we can to protect the people of Hong Kong . ''
On Thursday Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's official spokesman told a Westminster briefing : `` We are deeply concerned about China 's legislation related to national security in Hong Kong .
`` We have been very clear that the security legislation risks undermining the principle of one country , two systems .
`` We are in close contact with our international partners on this and the Foreign Secretary spoke to US Secretary [ Mike ] Pompeo last night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steps taken by the Chinese government place the Joint Declaration under direct threat and do undermine Hong Kong 's high degree of autonomy . ''
On Wednesday , Mr Pompeo said developments in Hong Kong meant it could no longer be considered to have `` a high degree of autonomy '' from mainland China .
This could lead to Hong Kong being treated the same as mainland China under US law , which would have major implications for its trade hub status .

"If China continues down this path and implements this national security legislation, we will remove that six month limit and allow those BNO passport holders to come to the UK and to apply to work and study for extendable periods of 12 months and that will itself provide a pathway to future citizenship," he said.


bbc--2020-05-28--Myka Stauffer: Backlash after YouTubers give up adopted son

A couple who documented on a popular YouTube channel their life with an autistic toddler adopted from China are facing a backlash after they revealed he had been placed with another family .
Myka Stauffer and her husband James , based in Ohio , produced videos about Huxley 's adoption and his challenges .
Since 2017 the couple received sponsorship deals and video revenue .
While some understood the decision , critics accused the pair of exploiting Huxley to build their YouTube career .
The news that Huxley is living permanently with another family was revealed on Tuesday after followers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a video for some time .
The couple said unspecified behavioural issues from Huxley had made life too difficult for the family , which includes four other children .
Content on the couple 's YouTube account The Stauffer Life has now been deleted .
`` Extremely depressed reading about the influencer who raised funds to adopt a son , made this her 'brand , ' discovered he has special needs , secretly rehomed him , `` wrote journalist Sophie Ross on Twitter .
Adopted children `` are n't a dog you adopted from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 14 days if they are n't a good fit ... gross '' , commented another Twitter user , one of thousands to post negative reaction .
The couple began sharing videos about their family life in 2014 and Mrs Stauffer 's own YouTube channel Myka Stauffer grew to more than 700,000 subscribers this year .
In July 2016 they announced plans to adopt a toddler from China , and that they were considering adopting a second from `` Uganda or Ethiopia '' .
The adoption agency told them Huxley had `` brain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a magazine article .
After hesitating , the couple decided to proceed when `` God softened our hearts '' , she wrote .
They said revenue from sponsored videos would pay for the adoption .
They also asked followers to donate $ 5 towards supporting their son 's needs , promising to write donors ' names in a baby book .
One video of the family going to China to meet two-year-old Huxley was extremely popular and clocked up more than 5.5 million views on YouTube .
Tapping into the popular trend of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours of content documenting their son and his life following adoption .
Detailed updates on Huxley 's developmental progress were included , as well as clips of him .
Other videos on the couple 's YouTube and Instagram accounts included advice about pregnancy ( the couple had two more children after adopting Huxley ) , home-schooling , decoration and household chores .
Mrs Stauffer was also interviewed in magazines about caring for children with disabilities .
Companies including Glossier and Good American offered sponsorship deals , and the birth of their fifth child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In September 2019 , Mrs Stauffer posted an update in which she said that Huxley had received treatment following a diagnosis of autism .
But followers noticed that in late 2019 and early 2020 , Huxley stopped appearing in the videos .
On Tuesday , the couple posted an update in which they explained Huxley had been given permanently to another family for the sake of his `` emotional well-being '' .
• The children sent to a DR Congo 'holiday camp ' never to return The adoption agency had not given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health , they said , and doctors in the US said he now needed `` a different fit in his medical needs '' .
`` I ca n't explain the amount of effort Myka has put into helping Huxley , '' Mr Stauffer added .
Some who have followed the story for a while commented with messages of support .
`` I respect you so much for having the courage to make such a heartbreaking and hard decision , '' one wrote .
But others accused the couple of `` getting rid '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experiences .
Others expressed sympathy for him .
`` Although I am sure this is hard for all involved , it does not even compare to the loss this child has endured , '' one wrote .
The incident has again raised the issue of international adoptions whereby parents give up care of the children after a period of time , several people commented .

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bbc--2020-05-28--When Covid-19 hit, zookeeper Caitlin Henderson ended up in lockdown with 70 spiders

Caitlin Henderson was working for a spider exhibition when the coronavirus pandemic hit .
The venue closed , and suddenly @ @ @ @ @ with 70 spiders in her bedroom .

Caitlin Henderson was working for a spider exhibition when the coronavirus pandemic hit. The venue closed, and suddenly she was living in lockdown with 70 spiders in her bedroom.
Producers: Maryam Maruf and Alice Gioia.


bbc--2020-05-28--Men hired for sexual fantasy break into wrong house

In a sex fantasy gone wrong , two men with machetes entered the wrong house in New South Wales , Australia , before quickly realising their error .
One of them has now been acquitted of entering a home armed with a weapon in July 2019 , Australian media report .
They had been hired to carry out a client 's fantasy of being tied up in his underwear and stroked with a broom .
The judge concluded that `` the facts of the case are unusual '' .
The role play was arranged over Facebook by a man near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided his address to the hired pair .
`` He was willing to pay A $ 5,000 if it was 'really good ' , '' the judge said .
However , the client moved to another address 50km ( 30 miles ) away without updating the two men .
They then entered a home on the street of the original address .
When the resident noticed a light on in his kitchen at 06:15 , he assumed it was a friend who came by daily to make morning coffee .
When the men @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the resident turned on the light , and saw them standing above his bed with the machetes .
You might also be interested in : When they realised their error , one of the pair said `` Sorry , mate '' and shook the resident 's hand , according to local reports .
The two men then drove to the correct address , where the client noticed one man had a `` great big knife '' in his trousers .
The client then cooked bacon , eggs and noodles , and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the property and arrested the hired pair .
The judge ruled that evidence did not suggest the men 's actions were intentional .
`` They carried the machetes either as a prop or something to use in that fantasy , '' he said .
`` The fantasy was unscripted and there was discretion as to how it would be carried out . ''
A lawyer for Terrence Leroy , one of the accused , said : `` It was a commercial agreement to tie up and stroke a semi-naked man in his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not with intent to intimidate . ''

"They carried the machetes either as a prop or something to use in that fantasy," he said. "The fantasy was unscripted and there was discretion as to how it would be carried out."


bbc--2020-05-28--Gabrielle Union: Ex-America's Got Talent judge discusses 'toxic' environment

Former America 's Got Talent judge Gabrielle Union has spoken about the `` toxic work environment '' on set , six months after she left the show .
The LA 's Finest actress left the talent show after one series , with reports saying she had been dismissed .
She has now told Variety she raised concerns with producers but `` felt singled out as being difficult '' .
NBC and AGT 's producers said they took her concerns `` extremely seriously '' , and they `` had no bearing '' on her exit .
Union was on the panel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ successful show , with an option to stay on for another year .
Producers Syco Entertainment and Fremantle told BBC they and broadcaster NBC enlisted an external investigator to conduct more than 30 interviews to review the issues she raised .
They referred the BBC to media reports saying the investigation concluded that Union 's claims were unfounded .
`` The investigation has shown that the concerns raised by Ms Union had no bearing on the decision not to exercise the option on her contract , '' a statement said .
The singer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interview with Variety , including how Simon Cowell 's smoking allegedly made her unwell because she is allergic to cigarette smoke .
The decision about whether to complain was difficult when someone is `` coming onto a set and you are literally met with the very definition of a toxic work environment , and it 's being carried out by the most powerful person on the production , '' she said .
She `` hesitantly '' raised the problem with producers , but was told that `` effectively , nothing was going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I ended up staying sick for two months straight , '' Union said .
`` It was a cold that lingered , and turned into bronchitis , because I could n't shake it .
It impacted my voice , which affects my ability to do my job . ''
Cowell 's spokesperson told Variety that `` when he was directly informed of the smoking complaint during the first couple of days of the season , he immediately changed his behaviour and the issue was never raised again '' .
Cowell 's spokesperson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respect feedback . ''
Union raised the issue of hair and make-up being inadequate for contestants from minorities .
However , Variety said roughly half of the hair and make-up staff were people of colour .
She also complained about one white male contestant wearing black gloves to represent a black performer in a routine that involved transforming into various famous singers .
And she reportedly asked for NBC 's human resources department to be made aware of an on-camera joke made by guest star Jay Leno about Korean food .
A statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments said : `` We have heard from contestants and talent alike that their experience on AGT has had a positive impact on their lives . ''
It concluded : `` NBC , Fremantle and Syco share Ms Union 's dedication to diversity and inclusion in the industry .
`` We continue to remain committed to having an inclusive environment for everyone associated with the show , and to upholding AGT as one of the most diverse programs on television . ''
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

The decision about whether to complain was difficult when someone is "coming onto a set and you are literally met with the very definition of a toxic work environment, and it's being carried out by the most powerful person on the production," she said.


bbc--2020-05-28--Premier League set to restart on 17 June with Man City v Arsenal and Villa v Sheff Utd

The Premier League is set to restart on 17 June with Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal , subject to government approval .
A full round of fixtures would then be played on the weekend of 19-21 June .
There are 92 matches still to play , and the first to take place will be those the four teams involved have in hand .
All matches will take place behind closed doors and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports , BT Sport , BBC Sport or Amazon Prime .
BBC Sport will air four live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League 's inception in 1992 .
Meanwhile , Sky Sports will show 64 matches live and make 25 available free to air .
• Listen : Reaction to the return of the Premier League on 5 Live 's Football Daily podcast • Liverpool set to be champions - but what 's still up for grabs ?
• Quiz : How well do you remember the season so far ?
• Villa 's McGinn excited to be first game back Safety guidelines are yet to be issued by the government and decisions will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic .
Kick-off times will be as follows ( all times BST ) : BBC Sport understands that clubs have agreed to a provisional end date of Saturday , 25 July .
It is also understood that finishing the season would require six weekends and three midweek rounds .
Liverpool sit 25 points clear at the top of the table while Bournemouth , Aston Villa and Norwich City are in the relegation places .
The Reds , chasing a first league title in 30 years , could clinch it with victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester City lose to Arsenal .
`` The Premier League and our clubs are proud to have incredibly passionate and loyal supporters , '' Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said .
`` It is important to ensure as many people as possible can watch the matches at home . ''
Masters added that the resumption date would not be confirmed `` until we have met all the safety requirements needed '' .
It is understood that if the season progresses as planned , the £340m rebate to TV companies can be phased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if the games are not played , the full sum will be due in July .
Meanwhile on Friday morning the Football Association will announce proposed dates for the FA Cup quarter-finals , semi-finals and final .
And in terms of European competition , the last 16 second-leg matches in the Champions League and Europa League are set to be played between 6 and 8 August .
Manchester City , Manchester United and Wolves are all still involved .
Uefa will discuss the plans at an executive committee meeting in June before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the background ?
The Premier League was suspended on 13 March because of the pandemic and it will be 100 days after Leicester City 's 4-0 win over Aston Villa on 9 March that competition will - prospectively - resume .
Manchester City v Arsenal was already scheduled to be shown on Sky Sports , while Aston Villa v Sheffield United was not listed for live coverage when selections were announced in February .
Home and away matches look most likely for the vast majority of games - with a few high-profile games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the police .
Clubs have expressed their opposition to the concept of using neutral grounds , including Brighton and West Ham .
On Wednesday , clubs unanimously voted to resume contact training , having started non-contact training last week .
So far 12 people have tested positive for coronavirus after 2,752 tests across the league .
Premier League players and staff will continue to be tested twice a week , with the capacity increased from 50 to 60 tests per club for the fourth round of testing .
Any players or staff to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of seven days .
Plans for the third phase of Project Restart include a step towards normal training and build-up to competitive games .
What about the rest of Europe ?
• On Thursday Italy 's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora confirmed that Serie A will return on 20 June after the league was suspended on 9 March .
Juventus lead the table by a point with 12 rounds of matches remaining .
• Spain 's prime minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Saturday that La Liga can resume from 8 June .
Barcelona lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top with 11 rounds of matches to play .
• The German Bundesliga season resumed on 16 May , becoming the first major league in Europe to return to competition .
All matches are being played behind closed doors with Bayern Munich leading the way on 64 points .
• The French Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons will not resume , with Paris St-Germain being awarded the top-flight title .
• On 25 April in the Netherlands , the Eredivisie was abandoned and Belgium 's Pro-League cancelled its season , although the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• And on 18 May , Celtic were confirmed as Scottish champions for the ninth season in a row and Hearts relegated after the SPFL ended the season .
The decision was taken at a board meeting after the 12 clubs agreed that completing the campaign was unfeasible .
Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker : `` It 's coming back , it 's coming back , it 's coming , football 's coming back ! ''
Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum : `` WE .
GO .
AGAIN .
We 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stadiums , but we 'll do everything we can to make you proud . ''
Oliver Dowden , Secretary of State for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport : `` Positive to see further steps on the return of football today .
`` I 've been pushing for as many games as possible to be free to view and for the return of the top league to support the whole football family . ''

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are chasing their first league title in 30 years
The Premier League is set to restart on 17 June with Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal, subject to government approval.
A full round of fixtures would then be played on the weekend of 19-21 June.
There are 92 matches still to play, and the first to take place will be those the four teams involved have in hand.
All matches will take place behind closed doors and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, BT Sport, BBC Sport or Amazon Prime.
BBC Sport will air four live matches for the first time since the Premier League's inception in 1992.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports will show 64 matches live and make 25 available free to air.
Safety guidelines are yet to be issued by the government and decisions will remain subject to the continuing fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Kick-off times will be as follows (all times BST):
Friday: 20:00
Saturday: 12:30, 15:00, 17:30 and 20:00
Sunday: 12:00, 14:00, 16:30 and 19:00
Monday: 20:00
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 18:00 and 20:00
BBC Sport understands that clubs have agreed to a provisional end date of Saturday, 25 July.
It is also understood that finishing the season would require six weekends and three midweek rounds.
It's OK to say we've missed football - Lineker on Premier League return
Liverpool sit 25 points clear at the top of the table while Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Norwich City are in the relegation places.
The Reds, chasing a first league title in 30 years, could clinch it with victory in their first game back should second-placed Manchester City lose to Arsenal.
"The Premier League and our clubs are proud to have incredibly passionate and loyal supporters," Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said.
"It is important to ensure as many people as possible can watch the matches at home."
Masters added that the resumption date would not be confirmed "until we have met all the safety requirements needed".
It is understood that if the season progresses as planned, the £340m rebate to TV companies can be phased over a period of time.
However, if the games are not played, the full sum will be due in July.
Meanwhile on Friday morning the Football Association will announce proposed dates for the FA Cup quarter-finals, semi-finals and final.
And in terms of European competition, the last 16 second-leg matches in the Champions League and Europa League are set to be played between 6 and 8 August. Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United, Rangers and Wolves are all still involved. Uefa will discuss the plans at an executive committee meeting in June before a decision is made.
What is the background?
The Premier League was suspended on 13 March because of the pandemic and it will be 100 days after Leicester City's 4-0 win over Aston Villa on 9 March that competition will - prospectively - resume.
Manchester City v Arsenal was already scheduled to be shown on Sky Sports, while Aston Villa v Sheffield United was not listed for live coverage when selections were announced in February.
Home and away matches look most likely for the vast majority of games - with a few high-profile games at neutral venues at the request of the police.
Clubs have expressed their opposition to the concept of using neutral grounds, including Brighton and West Ham.
On Wednesday, clubs unanimously voted to resume contact training, having started non-contact training last week.
So far 12 people have tested positive for coronavirus after 2,752 tests across the league.
Premier League players and staff will continue to be tested twice a week, with the capacity increased from 50 to 60 tests per club for the fourth round of testing.
Any players or staff to test positive must self-isolate for a period of seven days.
Plans for the third phase of Project Restart include a step towards normal training and build-up to competitive games.
What about the rest of Europe?
On Thursday Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora confirmed that Serie A will return on 20 June after the league was suspended on 9 March. Juventus lead the table by a point with 12 rounds of matches remaining.
Spain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Saturday that La Liga can resume from 8 June. Barcelona lead Real Madrid by two points at the top with 11 rounds of matches to play.
The German Bundesliga season resumed on 16 May, becoming the first major league in Europe to return to competition. All matches are being played behind closed doors with Bayern Munich leading the way on 64 points.
The French Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons will not resume, with Paris St-Germain being awarded the top-flight title.
On 25 April in the Netherlands, the Eredivisie was abandoned and Belgium's Pro-League cancelled its season, although the decision to ratify this is still pending.
And on 18 May, Celtic were confirmed as Scottish champions for the ninth season in a row and Hearts relegated after the SPFL ended the season. The decision was taken at a board meeting after the 12 clubs agreed that completing the campaign was unfeasible.
'Football's back!' - reaction
Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker: "It's coming back, it's coming back, it's coming, football's coming back!"
Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum: "WE. GO. AGAIN. We'll miss having you with us at the stadiums, but we'll do everything we can to make you proud."
Oliver Dowden, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport: "Positive to see further steps on the return of football today.
"I've been pushing for as many games as possible to be free to view and for the return of the top league to support the whole football family."