skynewspolitics--2020-09-30--MPs overwhelmingly approve renewal of emergency COVID powers

MPs have approved the renewal of the government 's emergency coronavirus powers after ministers staged a climbdown to offer the House of Commons a greater say on new nationwide restrictions .
Powers under the Coronavirus Act , which was passed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March , have to be renewed by parliament every six months .
MPs approved the motion by 330 votes to 24 - a 306 majority - after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the Commons that the measures were `` still needed to keep people safe '' .
But the government had earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greater consultation of MPs - and a Commons vote `` wherever possible '' - on new coronavirus lockdown restrictions before they come into force .
Following talks between the government and a group of Tory MPs wanting a greater say for parliament over COVID-19 measures , Mr Hancock announced the terms of a peace deal to the Commons .
`` I can confirm to the House that for significant national measures with effect in the whole of England , or UK-wide , we will consult parliament - wherever possible we will hold votes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
However , Mr Hancock warned that `` responding to the virus means the government must act with speed when required and we can not hold up urgent regulations which are needed to control the virus and save lives '' .
Despite the government concession , seven Conservative MPs - including former Cabinet minister Esther McVey - still voted against the renewal of the emergency powers .
Mr Hancock also announced that modifications to mental health legislation , meaning a person can be detained under the opinion of just one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus Act .
`` These were always powers of last resort and I was not persuaded , even in the peak , that they were necessary because our mental health services have shown incredible resilience and ingenuity , '' he said .
Sir Graham Brady , one of the ringleaders of the group of Tory MPs wanting a greater role for parliament , thanked Mr Hancock for `` being prepared to listen '' and for `` constructive conversations '' in recent days .
`` We are grateful than he and other members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proper scrutiny in this place and the benefits that can bring to better government as well , '' he said .
Labour 's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said his party would not block the renewal of the powers .
But he criticised ministers for appearing on national media with `` absolutely no idea of what the rules are '' .
`` The public is being let down on a grand scale , '' he said .
`` The government has had virtually all the resources and brilliance of our remarkable country on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They 've been able to call on the UK 's remarkable frontline workers , who have shown incredible skill and bravery through this crisis .
`` And yet we 've ended up with one of the highest death rates in the world and on the threshold of one of the deepest recessions . ''
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier on Wednesday , Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle had admonished the government over their use of emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way in which they had exercised their powers in introducing coronavirus measures was `` totally unsatisfactory '' , as he criticised them for publishing laws only `` a matter of hours before they come into force '' .
`` Some explanations why important measures have come into effect before they can be laid before this House have been unconvincing and shows a total disregard for the House , '' Sir Lindsay said .
`` The government must make greater efforts to prepare measures more quickly , so that this House can debate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the earliest possible point . ''
The Speaker urged the government to `` remedy a situation I regard as completely unsatisfactory , '' adding : `` I now look to the government to rebuild trust with this House and not treat it with the contempt that it has shown . ''
Sir Lindsay had also ruled that he would n't allow Sir Graham 's proposed amendment to Wednesday 's motion to renew the coronavirus powers , as the Speaker expressed his fear it risked `` uncertainty about the decision the House has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to alter the motion as part of his bid to allow MPs a greater say over new coronavirus restrictions , with 80 Tory MPs - as well as MPs from other parties - said to have been ready to have supported him .
However , the fruitful talks with the government appeared to have satisfied the demands of the rebel group without them needing to push for a legislative solution .

MPs have approved the renewal of the government's emergency coronavirus powers after ministers staged a climbdown to offer the House of Commons a greater say on new nationwide restrictions.
Powers under the Coronavirus Act, which was passed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March, have to be renewed by parliament every six months.
MPs approved the motion by 330 votes to 24 - a 306 majority - after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the Commons that the measures were "still needed to keep people safe".
But the government had earlier been forced to offer the concession of greater consultation of MPs - and a Commons vote "wherever possible" - on new coronavirus lockdown restrictions before they come into force.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 'COVID remains serious public health threat'
Following talks between the government and a group of Tory MPs wanting a greater say for parliament over COVID-19 measures, Mr Hancock announced the terms of a peace deal to the Commons.
"I can confirm to the House that for significant national measures with effect in the whole of England, or UK-wide, we will consult parliament - wherever possible we will hold votes before such regulations come into force," he said.
However, Mr Hancock warned that "responding to the virus means the government must act with speed when required and we cannot hold up urgent regulations which are needed to control the virus and save lives".
Despite the government concession, seven Conservative MPs - including former Cabinet minister Esther McVey - still voted against the renewal of the emergency powers.
Mr Hancock also announced that modifications to mental health legislation, meaning a person can be detained under the opinion of just one doctor, will be removed from the Coronavirus Act.
Advertisement
"These were always powers of last resort and I was not persuaded, even in the peak, that they were necessary because our mental health services have shown incredible resilience and ingenuity," he said.
Image: Tory rebel leader Sir Graham Brady thanked the government for being 'prepared to listen' Pic: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor
Sir Graham Brady, one of the ringleaders of the group of Tory MPs wanting a greater role for parliament, thanked Mr Hancock for "being prepared to listen" and for "constructive conversations" in recent days.
"We are grateful that he and other members of the government have understood the importance of proper scrutiny in this place and the benefits that can bring to better government as well," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:54 Speaker scolds government over handling of virus rules
Labour's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said his party would not block the renewal of the powers.
But he criticised ministers for appearing on national media with "absolutely no idea of what the rules are".
"The public is being let down on a grand scale," he said.
"The government has had virtually all the resources and brilliance of our remarkable country on demand for over six months.
"They've been able to call on the UK's remarkable frontline workers, who have shown incredible skill and bravery through this crisis.
"And yet we've ended up with one of the highest death rates in the world and on the threshold of one of the deepest recessions."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Earlier on Wednesday, Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle had admonished the government over their use of emergency coronavirus powers.
He told ministers that the way in which they had exercised their powers in introducing coronavirus measures was "totally unsatisfactory", as he criticised them for publishing laws only "a matter of hours before they come into force".
"Some explanations why important measures have come into effect before they can be laid before this House have been unconvincing and shows a total disregard for the House," Sir Lindsay said.
"The government must make greater efforts to prepare measures more quickly, so that this House can debate and decide upon the most significant measures at the earliest possible point."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 'Illogicalities' are 'inevitable' in tackling virus - PM
The Speaker urged the government to "remedy a situation I regard as completely unsatisfactory," adding: "I now look to the government to rebuild trust with this House and not treat it with the contempt that it has shown."
Sir Lindsay had also ruled that he wouldn't allow Sir Graham's proposed amendment to Wednesday's motion to renew the coronavirus powers, as the Speaker expressed his fear it risked "uncertainty about the decision the House has taken".
Sir Graham had wanted to alter the motion as part of his bid to allow MPs a greater say over new coronavirus restrictions, with 80 Tory MPs - as well as MPs from other parties - said to have been ready to have supported him.
However, the fruitful talks with the government appeared to have satisfied the demands of the rebel group without them needing to push for a legislative solution.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--MP suspended for taking 400 mile train journey despite knowing she had COVID-19

An MP who took a train hundreds of miles from Westminster to her constituency despite knowing she had coronavirus has been suspended from her party and is facing calls to resign .
The Scottish National Party 's Margaret Ferrier originally travelled down to London and attended Parliament while waiting for her coronavirus test result .
She then spoke in the commons , knowing that she had recently developed symptoms of the disease .
Once she had a positive result she took a train 400 miles back to to Glasgow .
She said there was `` no excuse for my actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breaching COVID-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I should n't have '' .
Ian Blackford , the party 's Westminster leader , said he has suspended Ms Ferrier , who has agreed to refer herself to the parliamentary standards commissioner and the police .
SNP leader and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said her actions were `` utterly indefensible '' .
She added : `` It 's hard to express just how angry I feel on behalf of people across the country making hard sacrifices every day to help beat COVID .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're in place to keep people safe . ''
Fellow SNP MPs David Linden and Kirsty Blackman called on her to resign .
In a statement , the MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West said she took a coronavirus test on Saturday , having experienced mild symptoms that day .
`` Feeling much better , I then travelled to London by train on Monday to attend Parliament as planned , '' she said .
`` This was wrong , and I am very sorry for my mistake . ''
On Monday , Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Commons .
That evening she says she tested positive .
Her statement continued : `` I travelled home by train on Tuesday morning without seeking advice .
`` This was also wrong and I am sorry .
I have been self-isolating at home ever since .
`` I have used Test and Protect and I have notified the House of Commons authorities who have spoken with Public Health England .
I have also notified the police of my actions .
`` Despite feeling well , I should have self-isolated while waiting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regret my actions .
`` I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have , and do all they can to help limit the spread of COVID-19 . ''
A Commons spokesman said Ms Ferrier told the SNP whip about her positive test on Wednesday afternoon .
`` The Speaker was informed and the House authorities immediately took all necessary steps in line with their legal obligations and PHE guidance , '' they said .
`` On the basis of the information supplied to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been identified as a close contact in relation to this case and is now self-isolating . ''
Ms Ferrier posted a number of pictures on her Twitter account on Saturday of visits to places in her constituency - including a beauty salon and a leisure centre - but it is not clear if the visits occurred that same day .
Ms Ferrier called for Dominic Cummings , Boris Johnson 's senior adviser , to resign after it was revealed he travelled more than 200 miles to County Durham from London at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she told the Daily Record : `` The public health advice is crystal clear .
For the safety of others , anyone with coronavirus symptoms must self-isolate , in line with government guidance .
They should not leave the house for any reason . ''
Labour 's shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray said her `` astonishing recklessness '' had `` put people 's health at risk '' , while MSP and former Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said `` she has to go '' .
SNP MP David Linden told BBC Question Time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm pretty furious with the behaviour of Margaret Ferrier MP .
It 's utterly inexcusable and it 's right that she lost the whip for that .
`` I do n't think her position is tenable and she should resign . ''
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Train drivers ' union Aslef said : `` We 've worked day in , day out to keep our railway as safe as possible for passengers and staff .
For an MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has COVID-19 is both dangerous and disgraceful . ''
A Police Scotland spokesperson said : `` We are aware of the circumstances and are liaising with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police Service . ''
The MP would face a £1,000 fine for a first-time offence of breaching self-isolation rules , under a law that came into force the same day she tested positive .

An MP who took a train hundreds of miles from Westminster to her constituency despite knowing she had coronavirus has been suspended from her party and is facing calls to resign.
The Scottish National Party's Margaret Ferrier originally travelled down to London and attended Parliament while waiting for her coronavirus test result.
She then spoke in the Commons, knowing that she had recently developed symptoms of the disease.
Once she had a positive result she took a train 400 miles back to Glasgow.
Live updates on coronavirus from US, UK and around world
She said there was "no excuse for my actions" and "I apologise unreservedly for breaching COVID-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I shouldn't have".
Image: 'I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have,' Margaret Ferrier said
Ian Blackford, the party's Westminster leader, said he has suspended Ms Ferrier, who has agreed to refer herself to the parliamentary standards commissioner and the police.
SNP leader and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said her actions were "utterly indefensible".
She added: "It's hard to express just how angry I feel on behalf of people across the country making hard sacrifices every day to help beat COVID. The rules apply to everyone and they're in place to keep people safe."
Advertisement
Fellow SNP MPs David Linden and Kirsty Blackman called on her to resign.
In a statement, the MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West said she took a coronavirus test on Saturday, having experienced mild symptoms that day.
"Feeling much better, I then travelled to London by train on Monday to attend Parliament as planned," she said.
"This was wrong, and I am very sorry for my mistake."
Image: SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon said the MP's actions were 'utterly indefensible'
On Monday, Ms Ferrier spoke in the coronavirus debate in the Commons. That evening she says she tested positive.
Her statement continued: "I travelled home by train on Tuesday morning without seeking advice.
"This was also wrong and I am sorry. I have been self-isolating at home ever since.
"I have used Test and Protect and I have notified the House of Commons authorities who have spoken with Public Health England. I have also notified the police of my actions.
"Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions.
"I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have, and do all they can to help limit the spread of COVID-19."
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
A Commons spokesman said Ms Ferrier told the SNP whip about her positive test on Wednesday afternoon.
"The Speaker was informed and the House authorities immediately took all necessary steps in line with their legal obligations and PHE guidance," they said.
"On the basis of the information supplied to the contact-tracing system, only one individual has been identified as a close contact in relation to this case and is now self-isolating."
Ms Ferrier posted a number of pictures on her Twitter account on Saturday of visits to places in her constituency - including a beauty salon and a leisure centre - but it is not clear if the visits occurred that same day.
Ms Ferrier called for Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's senior adviser, to resign after it was revealed he travelled more than 200 miles to County Durham from London at the height of lockdown.
Image: SNP MP Margaret Ferrier pictured during a visit to a leisure centre in her constituency
At the time she told the Daily Record: "The public health advice is crystal clear. For the safety of others, anyone with coronavirus symptoms must self-isolate, in line with government guidance. They should not leave the house for any reason."
Labour's shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray said her "astonishing recklessness" had "put people's health at risk", while MSP and former Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said "she has to go".
SNP MP David Linden told BBC Question Time: "I've got to say I'm pretty furious with the behaviour of Margaret Ferrier MP. It's utterly inexcusable and it's right that she lost the whip for that.
"I don't think her position is tenable and she should resign."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Train drivers' union Aslef said: "We've worked day in, day out to keep our railway as safe as possible for passengers and staff. For an MP to get on a train knowing she has COVID-19 is both dangerous and disgraceful."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are aware of the circumstances and are liaising with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police Service."
The MP would face a £1,000 fine for a first-time offence of breaching self-isolation rules, under a law that came into force the same day she tested positive.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--Turkey and Poland added to UK's coronavirus quarantine list

Turkey and Poland have been added to the UK 's coronavirus quarantine list , meaning travellers from the countries will have to self-isolate for two weeks .
The rules will come into force for people arriving after 4am on Saturday .
The Caribbean islands of Bonaire , St Eustatius and Saba have also been added to the list .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps also revealed that from Friday the penalties for people who refuse to self-isolate will be increased to a maximum of £10,000 for repeat offenders .
From this week , isolating is now a legal duty for anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system is meant to stop people from high-risk countries spreading coronavirus in the UK .
Countries with infection rates of 20 per 100,000 people are at particular risk of being added to the list .
The seven-day rate of new coronavirus cases in Poland stands at 25.9 , up from 15.6 the previous week .
Bonaire , Saint Eustatius and Saba also reported 142.4 new cases per 100,000 , unchanged from the previous week .
Turkey 's rate has dropped to 12.9 cases , down from 14.2 the previous week .
But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added to the quarantine list in light of the country 's health ministry revealing it has been recording new cases differently to a number of international organisations .
There was no mention of Italy in the announcement , despite its weekly rate increasing to 20.4 cases .
Last week , Denmark , Slovakia and Iceland were added to England and Wales ' quarantine lists .
22.5 million people - just over a third of the UK - are now living under enhanced local restrictions after more northern cities were added .
The latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ region , Warrington , Hartlepool and Middlesbrough from 12:01am on Saturday .
It bans them from meeting people from other households indoors , including in pubs and restaurants .
As efforts continue to control imported cases , latest test and trace data for England showed a 61 % increase in the numbers testing positive , as well as an increase in the overall proportion of positive tests to more than 5 % .
Are you on holiday in Turkey ?
Get in touch with Sky News : : WhatsApp - 07583 000853 : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 'Your Report ' on Sky News apps

Holidaymakers are having to cut their trips short after Turkey and Poland were added to the UK's coronavirus quarantine list, meaning travellers will have to self-isolate for two weeks on their return.
The rules will come into force for people arriving after 4am on Saturday.
The Caribbean islands of Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba have also been added to the list.
Live updates on coronavirus from US, UK and around world
Katrina, who is in Turkey and was meant to be heading home on Saturday, has had to change her flight to come back earlier to avoid self-isolation.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 'Devastated': UK tourist on Turkey quarantine move
"I can't afford to be in quarantine for two weeks because I have a daughter who is very vulnerable," she told Sky News.
"I would never have come here if I thought it was an unsafe place to be. My experience here is that everyone has been extremely vigilant, far more than in the UK to be honest, following social distancing and wearing masks - they wear them all the time. I am so disappointed... I have no option but to go home early. I am totally devastated."
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps also revealed that from Friday the penalties for people who refuse to self-isolate will be increased to a maximum of £10,000 for repeat offenders.
From this week, isolating is now a legal duty for anyone told to do so.
Advertisement
The quarantine system is meant to stop people from high-risk countries spreading coronavirus in the UK.
Countries with infection rates of 20 per 100,000 people are at particular risk of being added to the list.
The seven-day rate of new coronavirus cases in Poland stands at 25.9, up from 15.6 the previous week.
Bonaire, Saint Eustatius and Saba also reported 142.4 new cases per 100,000, unchanged from the previous week.
Turkey's rate has dropped to 12.9 cases, down from 14.2 the previous week.
But the Department for Transport said it had been added to the quarantine list in light of the country's health ministry revealing it has been recording new cases differently to a number of international organisations.
There was no mention of Italy in the announcement, despite its weekly rate increasing to 20.4 cases.
Last week, Denmark, Slovakia and Iceland were added to England and Wales' quarantine lists.
22.5 million people - just over a third of the UK - are now living under enhanced local restrictions after more northern cities were added.
The latest will affect people in the Liverpool city region, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough from 12:01am on Saturday.
It bans them from meeting people from other households indoors, including in pubs and restaurants.
As efforts continue to control imported cases, latest test and trace data for England showed a 61% increase in the numbers testing positive, as well as an increase in the overall proportion of positive tests to more than 5%.
Are you on holiday in Turkey? Get in touch with Sky News
:: WhatsApp - 07583 000853
:: Email - sky.today@sky.uk
:: 'Your Report' on Sky News apps


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--EU to start legal action against UK over Brexit deal

The EU is starting legal action against Boris Johnson 's bid to potentially override parts of the Brexit deal .
Brussels claims the prime minister is breaching the `` good faith '' promise both sides signed up to in the withdrawal agreement struck and passed by parliament last year .
EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said given Mr Johnson has `` failed '' to heed her warning , `` infringement proceedings '' are being launched .
Number 10 now has until the end of October to respond .
A government spokesperson said a reply will be sent `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an escalation in tensions as the deadline looms for negotiators to hammer out a trade deal .
The UK left the EU on 31 January but is in a transition period meaning it is following many of the same rules until the end of 2020 .
Talks are now ongoing over the future relationship but if no breakthrough is reached by mid-October , then the prospect of a no-deal divorce will rear its head again .
Mr Johnson provoked the fury of former Conservative prime minister Theresa May and other backbenchers with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that scenario .
He is pushing through legislation that would - by the government 's own admission - break international law , called the Internal Market Bill .
It will let ministers hand themselves the power to determine rules on state aid and goods travelling between Northern Ireland and Great Britain .
Despite a small Tory rebellion , the bill passed the Commons with ease earlier this week and will go on to face debates and votes in the House of Lords .
A government spokesperson defended the bill in light of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to create a legal safety net to protect the integrity of the UK 's internal market , ensure ministers can always deliver on their obligations to Northern Ireland and protect the gains from the peace process , '' they said .
And they said the trade talks were being carried out in a `` constructive spirit '' despite the legal threat and Downing Street is `` committed to continuing to work constructively this week to reach an agreement '' .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called on both sides to get around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' row .
`` It 's absurd that with weeks to go the focus and the energy is not on their negotiations , it 's on threatened court proceedings , '' he said .
`` We need everybody around the table , we need to get a deal .
The prime minister said he had an 'oven-ready deal ' , get on , deliver it - that 's in the national interest . ''
Michel Barnier , the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator , tweeted : `` Full and effective implementation of withdrawal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the EU .
`` It is the result of long EU-UK negotiations and the only way to protect Good Friday ( Belfast ) Agreement , guaranteeing peace and stability on island of Ireland . ''
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said the commencement of legal proceedings was `` to be expected '' .
On the state of the talks , he said : `` I think the mood is moving in the right direction towards better engagement .
That 's always important in terms of negotiations of this kind , but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU , this is n't just about the legal action , but about the signals that it sends across the Channel .
Firstly , it is a clear warning that , as long as the Internal Market Bill survives , a trade deal wo n't be passed .
The European Parliament has already said it would block a deal on those terms , but there are plenty who shrugged that off .
But if the Commission is making the same threat , it carries more weight .
Secondly , it suggests unity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the 27 EU member states .
Last year , every country seemed to have a different take on Brexit ; now , with so much else to worry about , the EU seems to be much more unified in its approach .
Just about every EU diplomat here considers the withdrawal agreement to be close to a sacred text .
And thirdly , Ms Von der Leyen 's words were a tacit statement that Europe is prepared for talks to fail .
But - and it 's a big but - there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that progress has been made in recent days .
Not , they say , because the EU has been intimidated by the hated Internal Market Bill - but because the British government is showing signs of changing its position on state aid rules .

The EU is starting legal action against Boris Johnson's bid to potentially override parts of the Brexit deal.
Brussels claims the prime minister is breaching the "good faith" promise both sides signed up to in the withdrawal agreement struck and passed by parliament last year.
EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said given Mr Johnson has "failed" to heed her warning, "infringement proceedings" are being launched.
Image: The controversial legislation has now passed the Commons
Number 10 now has until the end of October to respond.
A government spokesperson said a reply will be sent "in due course".
It marks an escalation in tensions as the deadline looms for negotiators to hammer out a trade deal.
The UK left the EU on 31 January but is in a transition period meaning it is following many of the same rules until the end of 2020.
Talks are now ongoing over the future relationship but if no breakthrough is reached by mid-October, then the prospect of a no-deal divorce will rear its head again.
Mr Johnson provoked the fury of former Conservative prime minister Theresa May and other backbenchers with a controversial plan for what should happen in that scenario.
Advertisement
Image: Boris Johnson has a month to reply to the EU's letter
He is pushing through legislation that would - by the government's own admission - break international law, called the Internal Market Bill.
It will let ministers hand themselves the power to determine rules on state aid and goods travelling between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
Despite a small Tory rebellion, the bill passed the Commons with ease earlier this week and will go on to face debates and votes in the House of Lords.
A government spokesperson defended the bill in light of the EU's legal threat.
"We need to create a legal safety net to protect the integrity of the UK's internal market, ensure ministers can always deliver on their obligations to Northern Ireland and protect the gains from the peace process," they said.
And they said the trade talks were being carried out in a "constructive spirit" despite the legal threat and Downing Street is "committed to continuing to work constructively this week to reach an agreement".
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called on both sides to get around the table and end the "absurd" row.
"It's absurd that with weeks to go the focus and the energy is not on their negotiations, it's on threatened court proceedings," he said.
"We need everybody around the table, we need to get a deal. The prime minister said he had an 'oven-ready deal', get on, deliver it - that's in the national interest."
Image: The Internal Market Bill is meant to ensure unrestricted trade across the UK
Michel Barnier, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, tweeted: "Full and effective implementation of withdrawal agreement will always be an absolute priority for the EU.
"It is the result of long EU-UK negotiations and the only way to protect Good Friday (Belfast) Agreement, guaranteeing peace and stability on island of Ireland."
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said the commencement of legal proceedings was "to be expected".
On the state of the talks, he said: "I think the mood is moving in the right direction towards better engagement. That's always important in terms of negotiations of this kind, but there are serious challenges ahead."
Analysis: The three things Brussels' legal action means
By Adam Parsons, Europe correspondent
For the EU, this isn't just about the legal action, but about the signals that it sends across the Channel.
Firstly, it is a clear warning that, as long as the Internal Market Bill survives, a trade deal won't be passed.
The European Parliament has already said it would block a deal on those terms, but there are plenty who shrugged that off. But if the Commission is making the same threat, it carries more weight.
Secondly, it suggests unity. This legal action required support from across the 27 EU member states.
Last year, every country seemed to have a different take on Brexit; now, with so much else to worry about, the EU seems to be much more unified in its approach.
Just about every EU diplomat here considers the withdrawal agreement to be close to a sacred text.
And thirdly, Ms Von der Leyen's words were a tacit statement that Europe is prepared for talks to fail.
But - and it's a big but - there is a ripple of optimism in Brussels that progress has been made in recent days.
Not, they say, because the EU has been intimidated by the hated Internal Market Bill - but because the British government is showing signs of changing its position on state aid rules.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--Does it matter that the EU is sueing the UK?

The fact that the European Commission is starting legal proceedings against the British government certainly sounds impressive - but is this really a decisive moment - or just a bit of theatre ?
On the one hand , this sort of legal move - known as an infringement procedure - is relatively routine .
British government sources were quick to point out that , in 2019 , there were around 800 infringement cases in play involving the 27 member states of the European Union .
This is the 94th such action that has been opened against the United Kingdom since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of them are still unresolved .
But the flip side is that plenty of these are about very particular things - trade disputes , or interpretations of a select piece of EU law .
The procedure initiated today against the UK is different .
Why so ?
Well it involves an allegation that has caused so much anger that it has done a remarkable job of uniting Europe 's politicians , almost regardless of their politics or geography .
The accusation is breaching trust , by threatening the Withdrawal Agreement .
That agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart of European politics .
It took years to agree and involved negotiations with every member state .
The idea that it can now be rewritten is seen as fanciful .
But the concept of it being ignored is considered offensive by many here .
You do n't have to take my word for it .
This afternoon , an extremely senior EU diplomat , closely involved in these talks , sent me a message expressing quiet fury about the effect of the Internal Market Bill .
They said : `` The Withdrawal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international law and the mere fact of this infringement , and the statement of intent in this bill , will be negative for the reputation of the UK as a trusted international partner .
`` Yes , infringements are common within the EU .
Every member state racks them up , but this one is of a different order '' , they continued .
It revolves entirely around the idea of `` good faith '' , which is written there in Articles 4 and 5 , right at the start of the Agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from any measures which could jeopardise the attainment of the objectives of this Agreement '' .
According to the EU , that is exactly what the Internal Market Bill does .
So there is widespread anger .
But not everywhere .
The Dutch Prime Minister , Mark Rutte , described the legal action as a matter of procedure ; little more than an act of administration .
A nuisance rather than a calamity .
And for all the acrimony that has been expressed , you might argue that this is a tough negotiation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part and parcel of the joust .
Does that matter ?
Could it , in fact , bash some heads together and force progress ?
From Brussels , it is quite hard to see how it has actually helped push negotiations forward .
But equally , away from the political rows , it does not seem to have hindered the actual trade talks .
Lord Frost and Michel Barnier have kept meeting , so have their teams .
There are whispers of progress about fishing rights and state aid , the two notable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of legal action should probably best be seen as a mass of smoke symbols .
In Westminster , the government can say it is enacting protective legislation and will not be cowed by the European Union .
In Brussels , politicians can say they are united in standing up for the Withdrawal Agreement .
Both messages suit the respective leaders .
What will push progress on trade talks is the clock .
The shared assumption that a deal needs to have been agreed by the end of the month .
That , rather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is what diplomats talk to me about .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Today , I asked a senior diplomat from a major EU country , to assess the likelihood of a deal .
`` Impossible to call , '' came the reply .
The threat of legal action gives us an insight into the fractious state of talks , but if a deal is completed by the end of this year , then these infringement proceedings will quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a much bigger story .

The fact that the European Commission is starting legal proceedings against the British government certainly sounds impressive - but is this really a decisive moment - or just a bit of theatre?
On the one hand, this sort of legal move - known as an infringement procedure - is relatively routine.
British government sources were quick to point out that, in 2019, there were around 800 infringement cases in play involving the 27 member states of the European Union.
This is the 94th such action that has been opened against the United Kingdom since it joined the EU, and many of them are still unresolved.
But the flip side is that plenty of these are about very particular things - trade disputes, or interpretations of a select piece of EU law.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:59 EU taking legal action against UK
The procedure initiated today against the UK is different. Why so?
Well it involves an allegation that has caused so much anger that it has done a remarkable job of uniting Europe's politicians, almost regardless of their politics or geography.
The accusation is breaching trust, by threatening the Withdrawal Agreement.
That agreement has an almost sacred place in the heart of European politics. It took years to agree and involved negotiations with every member state.
Advertisement
The idea that it can now be rewritten is seen as fanciful. But the concept of it being ignored is considered offensive by many here. You don't have to take my word for it.
Image: The EU is taking legal action over Boris Johnson's controversial Internal Market Bill
This afternoon, an extremely senior EU diplomat, closely involved in these talks, sent me a message expressing quiet fury about the effect of the Internal Market Bill.
They said: "The Withdrawal Agreement is a treaty, grounded in international law and the mere fact of this infringement, and the statement of intent in this bill, will be negative for the reputation of the UK as a trusted international partner.
"Yes, infringements are common within the EU. Every member state racks them up, but this one is of a different order", they continued.
It revolves entirely around the idea of "good faith", which is written there in Articles 4 and 5, right at the start of the Agreement.
It compels parties to "refrain from any measures which could jeopardise the attainment of the objectives of this Agreement".
According to the EU, that is exactly what the Internal Market Bill does. So there is widespread anger. But not everywhere.
The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, described the legal action as a matter of procedure; little more than an act of administration. A nuisance rather than a calamity.
And for all the acrimony that has been expressed, you might argue that this is a tough negotiation and bruised feelings and legal threats are part and parcel of the joust.
Does that matter? Could it, in fact, bash some heads together and force progress?
From Brussels, it is quite hard to see how it has actually helped push negotiations forward. But equally, away from the political rows, it does not seem to have hindered the actual trade talks.
Lord Frost and Michel Barnier have kept meeting, so have their teams. There are whispers of progress about fishing rights and state aid, the two notable sticking points.
Instead, the spectre of legal action should probably best be seen as a mass of smoke symbols.
In Westminster, the government can say it is enacting protective legislation and will not be cowed by the European Union.
In Brussels, politicians can say they are united in standing up for the Withdrawal Agreement. Both messages suit the respective leaders.
What will push progress on trade talks is the clock. The shared assumption that a deal needs to have been agreed by the end of the month. That, rather than the threat of legal action, is what diplomats talk to me about.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Today, I asked a senior diplomat from a major EU country, to assess the likelihood of a deal.
"Impossible to call," came the reply.
"It's 50-50."
The threat of legal action gives us an insight into the fractious state of talks, but if a deal is completed by the end of this year, then these infringement proceedings will quickly be forgotten as a side show to a much bigger story.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--'Everything on the table' for processing asylum seekers, says Home Office

The Home Office 's top civil servant has said `` everything is on the table '' when it comes to `` improving '' the UK 's asylum system .
The department 's permanent secretary Matthew Rycroft repeatedly refused to deny reports that the government has considered sending asylum seekers to isolated islands 4,000 miles from the UK while their applications are processed .
He also refused to answer direct questions on whether disused ferries could be turned into processing centres , while giving evidence to the Commons Public Accounts Committee on Thursday .
It follows reports Home Secretary Priti Patel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Ascension Island and St Helena in the South Atlantic , or on disused ferries moored off the UK coast .
Mr Rycroft told MPs an investigation has been launched into the leaks on ideas of how to process asylum seekers .
When asked if the timing of the leaks and political motivation would be considered , Mr Rycroft said : `` I 'm sure they will look at all relevant factors . ''
After being questioned on whether offshore ferries are considered to be an improvement to the current system , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been taken '' .
He said : `` We are at the stage of looking at all sorts of options and responding to ministers ' requests for us to do so .
And it is entirely proper for us to do that . ''
On Tuesday , the Financial Times reported that Ascension Island and St Helena were being considered as places to hold asylum seekers .
However , using these remote UK territories in the South Atlantic was considered impractical due to costs and logistical problems .
Despite being asked four times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this was being taken as a `` serious suggestion '' .
He said that the department were `` leaving no stone unturned '' in responding to ministers ' questions on how other countries deal with migration .
He added : `` We 've been looking at what a whole host of other countries do in order to bring innovation into our own system .
`` No final proposals have been put to ministers or to anyone else . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Number 10 is considering buying retired ferries and converting the vessels into processing centres .
The Guardian reported officials were asked to consider the option of asylum seekers being sent to Moldova , Morocco or Papua New Guinea , similar to a model Australia has in place .
Commenting on reports of asylum claims being handled offshore , Nick Thomas-Symonds , Labour 's shadow home secretary , said : `` The Tories are lurching from one inhumane and impractical idea to another .
`` The idea of sending people to Ascension Island @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wash boats back and buying ferries and oil rigs to process asylum claims shows the government has lost control and all sense of compassion . ''
Home secretary , Priti Patel , has vowed to reduce the number of migrants making journey 's across the English Channel in small boats amid record numbers of crossings .
However , immigration and asylum continue to be contentious issues , with more than 5,000 people having crossed the English Channel so far this year .

The Home Office's top civil servant has said "everything is on the table" when it comes to "improving" the UK's asylum system.
The department's permanent secretary Matthew Rycroft repeatedly refused to deny reports that the government has considered sending asylum seekers to isolated islands 4,000 miles from the UK while their applications are processed.
He also refused to answer direct questions on whether disused ferries could be turned into processing centres, while giving evidence to the Commons Public Accounts Committee on Thursday.
Image: Ascension Island is one of the places said to have been under consideration. File pic
It follows reports Home Secretary Priti Patel has looked at processing asylum seeker claims on Ascension Island and St Helena in the South Atlantic, or on disused ferries moored off the UK coast.
Mr Rycroft told MPs an investigation has been launched into the leaks on ideas of how to process asylum seekers.
When asked if the timing of the leaks and political motivation would be considered, Mr Rycroft said: "I'm sure they will look at all relevant factors."
After being questioned on whether offshore ferries are considered to be an improvement to the current system, Mr Rycroft replied that "no decision has been taken".
He said: "We are at the stage of looking at all sorts of options and responding to ministers' requests for us to do so. And it is entirely proper for us to do that."
Image: Priti Patel has vowed to reduce the number of migrants making journey's across the English Channel
On Tuesday, the Financial Times reported that Ascension Island and St Helena were being considered as places to hold asylum seekers.
Advertisement
However, using these remote UK territories in the South Atlantic was considered impractical due to costs and logistical problems.
Despite being asked four times, Mr Rycroft did not confirm whether this was being taken as a "serious suggestion".
He said that the department were "leaving no stone unturned" in responding to ministers' questions on how other countries deal with migration.
He added: "We've been looking at what a whole host of other countries do in order to bring innovation into our own system.
"No final proposals have been put to ministers or to anyone else."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
According to The Times, Number 10 is considering buying retired ferries and converting the vessels into processing centres.
The Guardian reported officials were asked to consider the option of asylum seekers being sent to Moldova, Morocco or Papua New Guinea, similar to a model Australia has in place.
Commenting on reports of asylum claims being handled offshore, Nick Thomas-Symonds, Labour's shadow home secretary, said: "The Tories are lurching from one inhumane and impractical idea to another.
"The idea of sending people to Ascension Island, creating waves in the English Channel to wash boats back and buying ferries and oil rigs to process asylum claims shows the government has lost control and all sense of compassion."
Home secretary, Priti Patel, has vowed to reduce the number of migrants making journey's across the English Channel in small boats amid record numbers of crossings.
However, immigration and asylum continue to be contentious issues, with more than 5,000 people having crossed the English Channel so far this year.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--Postcode lockdown extended - but mayor vows to defy 'damaging' new rules

Tougher coronavirus restrictions are being imposed on four new areas - but one mayor says they are `` damaging '' and he will not accept them .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has urged residents in the Liverpool city region , Warrington , Hartlepool and Middlesbrough not to socially mix with those from other households - except in outdoor spaces like parks and outdoor hospitality settings .
And he asked them to avoid `` all but essential travel '' - meaning people can still go to work and school .
The changes will come into effect from 12:01am on Saturday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ because `` in some parts of the country , the virus is spreading fast '' , with cases shooting up to 268 per 100,000 people in Liverpool .
But the second spike in COVID-19 cases is `` highly localised '' , he claimed , adding recent actions are having a `` positive impact '' .
`` What we 're doing to respond to these awful circumstances is starting to work , so do n't let up , '' he said in a Commons statement on Thursday .
`` Let 's all of us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , over this virus , we will prevail . ''
Steve Rotheram , the metro mayor for the Liverpool city region , said the measures are a `` step in the right direction '' but added he was unsure `` whether they are enough '' .
He called on the government to publish its scientific evidence and provide `` substantial '' economic support for already-struggling firms .
But the restrictions were branded `` unacceptable '' by Andy Preston , the independent mayor of Middlesbrough .
He said he had called for the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ones announced go `` too far '' and are `` unacceptable '' .
`` We went to the government with fantastic , intelligent , pragmatic proposals to keep people safe , protect our society and make sure people do n't get lonely , '' Mr Preston told Sky News .
`` Obviously if there is a law then I will follow the law and nobody should break the law .
`` But as things stand , I do not accept these proposals - they are unnecessary , they go too far , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kill viable jobs . ''
Mr Preston added it was `` madness and completely unnecessary '' to stop people from different households having distanced meet-ups in COVID-secure cafes that would be `` pushed out of business '' , leading to job losses , under the government 's orders .
`` We 're not soft on COVID here , we 're strong on COVID - but we need to find a way of living with it , working with it and saving jobs , '' he said .
Labour 's shadow health secretary Jon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not working .
He said many regions subject to them are seeing cases rise not fall , so asked : `` Why are the moles not getting whacked ? ''
`` Our approach in tackling the second wave of the virus is suppressing the spread of the virus while keeping the economy as open as possible , '' he said .
Meanwhile , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has appeared to challenge the 10pm curfew for pubs , bars and restaurants - after multiple reports of people spilling out of venues at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporting the package the Government has put in , '' he said .
`` But I think [ Manchester mayor ] Andy Burnham in particular has questioned whether the 10pm curfew is working as intended .
`` He has pointed , understandably , to lots of people coming out of venues at the same time .
`` I suggest it might be a good idea for the government to reflect on what Andy Burnham is saying and ask themselves the question whether that should stay in place . ''
At least 16 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of enhanced restriction , on top of the national measures in place across the UK .
Analysis : England 's coronavirus divide may be one of income By Thomas Moore , science correspondent The map of the COVID-19 epidemic now reveals a striking north-south divide in England .
Rates are far higher across a broad swathe of the North West , Yorkshire and the North East than they are in the home counties and the South West .
That may be in part because the virus remained at a slightly higher rate in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even at the end of the long spring lockdown .
Once the brakes were taken off and we all started mixing again the virus took off sooner and faster in those areas before spreading regionally .
But that does n't completely explain the sharp rise .
The higher rate of deprivation in large urban areas is also likely to be a significant factor .
People living in less affluent areas are more likely to live closer together , with multiple generations under one roof .
They 're more likely to have jobs with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , such as bus drivers , or jobs in confined spaces , such as food processing plants .
And they are also more likely to be in poor health with higher rates of heart disease and diabetes .
All that increases the risk of the virus spreading and affecting more vulnerable people .
When you look more closely at the map of infection rates , and zoom in on London , there are parts of the east that are more badly affected .
Those are some of the most deprived boroughs in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a geographical divide may in fact be one of income .

Tougher coronavirus restrictions are being imposed on four new areas - but one mayor says they are "damaging" and he will not accept them.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has urged residents in the Liverpool city region, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough not to socially mix with those from other households - except in outdoor spaces like parks and outdoor hospitality settings.
And he asked them to avoid "all but essential travel" - meaning people can still go to work and school.
The changes will come into effect from 12:01am on Saturday.
Mr Hancock said the measures are needed because "in some parts of the country, the virus is spreading fast", with cases shooting up to 268 per 100,000 people in Liverpool.
Image: Liverpool has seen cases rise to 268 per 100,000 people
But the second spike in COVID-19 cases is "highly localised", he claimed, adding recent actions are having a "positive impact".
"What we're doing to respond to these awful circumstances is starting to work, so don't let up," he said in a Commons statement on Thursday.
"Let's all of us keep doing our bit and one day, over this virus, we will prevail."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:22 Hancock announces tighter local restrictions
Steve Rotheram, the metro mayor for the Liverpool city region, said the measures are a "step in the right direction" but added he was unsure "whether they are enough".
Advertisement
He called on the government to publish its scientific evidence and provide "substantial" economic support for already-struggling firms.
But the restrictions were branded "unacceptable" by Andy Preston, the independent mayor of Middlesbrough.
He said he had called for the government to impose some new measures but the ones announced go "too far" and are "unacceptable".
"We went to the government with fantastic, intelligent, pragmatic proposals to keep people safe, protect our society and make sure people don't get lonely," Mr Preston told Sky News.
"We weren't listened to...
"Obviously if there is a law then I will follow the law and nobody should break the law.
"But as things stand, I do not accept these proposals - they are unnecessary, they go too far, they'll damage mental health and they'll kill viable jobs."
Mr Preston added it was "madness and completely unnecessary" to stop people from different households having distanced meet-ups in COVID-secure cafes that would be "pushed out of business", leading to job losses, under the government's orders.
"We're not soft on COVID here, we're strong on COVID - but we need to find a way of living with it, working with it and saving jobs," he said.
Labour's shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth earlier suggested the local lockdown approach is not working.
He said many regions subject to them are seeing cases rise not fall, so asked: "Why are the moles not getting whacked?"
Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman has denied he ignores local leaders.
Image: Mr Johnson's spokesman said he wants to suppress the virus and protect jobs
"Our approach in tackling the second wave of the virus is suppressing the spread of the virus while keeping the economy as open as possible," he said.
Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has appeared to challenge the 10pm curfew for pubs, bars and restaurants - after multiple reports of people spilling out of venues at the same time.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:37 Londoners ignore curfew in Leicester Square
"We are supporting the package the Government has put in," he said. "But I think [Manchester mayor] Andy Burnham in particular has questioned whether the 10pm curfew is working as intended.
"He has pointed, understandably, to lots of people coming out of venues at the same time.
"I suggest it might be a good idea for the government to reflect on what Andy Burnham is saying and ask themselves the question whether that should stay in place."
At least 16 million people are now living under some form of enhanced restriction, on top of the national measures in place across the UK.
Analysis: England's coronavirus divide may be one of income
By Thomas Moore, science correspondent
The map of the COVID-19 epidemic now reveals a striking north-south divide in England.
Rates are far higher across a broad swathe of the North West, Yorkshire and the North East than they are in the home counties and the South West.
That may be in part because the virus remained at a slightly higher rate in some parts of the North West, even at the end of the long spring lockdown.
Once the brakes were taken off and we all started mixing again the virus took off sooner and faster in those areas before spreading regionally.
But that doesn't completely explain the sharp rise.
The higher rate of deprivation in large urban areas is also likely to be a significant factor.
People living in less affluent areas are more likely to live closer together, with multiple generations under one roof.
They're more likely to have jobs with more interaction with lots of other people, such as bus drivers, or jobs in confined spaces, such as food processing plants.
And they are also more likely to be in poor health with higher rates of heart disease and diabetes.
All that increases the risk of the virus spreading and affecting more vulnerable people.
When you look more closely at the map of infection rates, and zoom in on London, there are parts of the east that are more badly affected. Those are some of the most deprived boroughs in the capital.
So what appears at first to be a geographical divide may in fact be one of income.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-30--Boris Johnson's dad 'extremely sorry' after being caught with no face mask

Boris Johnson 's father has said he is `` extremely sorry '' after being photographed shopping without wearing a face covering .
Stanley Johnson was pictured in the Daily Mirror newspaper at a newsagents in west London on Tuesday , appearing to be breaking the rules by not covering his mouth and nose .
And former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has apologised for breaking the rule of six by attending a dinner party with his wife and seven other guests .
It comes after fines increased to £200 last week for first time offenders who fail to wear a face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Speaking to the newspaper , Mr Johnson said he may not be `` 100 % up to speed '' with current rules as he had just returned to England after three weeks abroad .
`` I 'm extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing , '' he said .
`` The fact this was my first day back in the UK after three weeks abroad is , I am sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules . ''
Meanwhile police faced a call to fine Mr Corbyn from a Labour shadow health minister , Dr Rosena Allin-Khan .
`` It is absolutely inexcusable for people to break the rules , the rules apply to everyone .
He rightly should be paying the fine . ''
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said : `` All of us should obey the rules , Jeremy knows that , I know that , all of us have to comply with the rules .
`` I have said throughout that whatever the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
We have got a duty to so . ''
Asked whether his predecessor should be fined , Sir Keir replied : `` It 's not for me to decide who should be fined , but it is for me to say that everybody should follow the rules . ''
Earlier , Mr Corbyn said : `` I recently had dinner at a friend 's house where the number of guests eventually exceeded five .
`` I understand that remaining at the dinner was a breach of the rule of six .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker During a Downing Street news conference on Wednesday , the prime minister urged the public to follow coronavirus guidelines .
`` Bear in mind that the fines are now very considerable and they will be imposed , '' he said .
Face coverings have been compulsory in shops and public transport since 24 July , and last week the government guidance was extended to hospitality venues , theatres , restaurants , bars and pubs unless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or drink .
It is not the first time Stanley Johnson has made headlines .
In July he defended his decision to travel to Greece in an apparent breach of Foreign Office guidance to avoid non-essential travel .
And he admitted breaking lockdown rules when he went out to buy a newspaper after his grandchild was born in April , stating he was `` not sure it 's an essential journey '' , and also indicated in March that he would ignore the government 's advice and go to the pub .

Boris Johnson's father has said he is "extremely sorry" after being photographed shopping without wearing a face covering.
Stanley Johnson was pictured in the Daily Mirror newspaper at a newsagents in west London on Tuesday, appearing to be breaking the rules by not covering his mouth and nose.
And former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has apologised for breaking the rule of six by attending a dinner party with his wife and seven other guests.
It comes after fines increased to £200 last week for first time offenders who fail to wear a face covering in accordance with government guidance.
Speaking to the newspaper, Mr Johnson said he may not be "100% up to speed" with current rules as he had just returned to England after three weeks abroad.
"I'm extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing," he said.
"The fact this was my first day back in the UK after three weeks abroad is, I am sure, no excuse for not knowing the rules."
Meanwhile police faced a call to fine Mr Corbyn from a Labour shadow health minister, Dr Rosena Allin-Khan.
"I'm disappointed," she told Sky News' Kay Burley show.
Advertisement
"It is absolutely inexcusable for people to break the rules, the rules apply to everyone. He rightly should be paying the fine."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:12 Prime minister's appeal to the nation
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "All of us should obey the rules, Jeremy knows that, I know that, all of us have to comply with the rules.
"I have said throughout that whatever the government rules are, we should all follow them. We have got a duty to so."
Asked whether his predecessor should be fined, Sir Keir replied: "It's not for me to decide who should be fined, but it is for me to say that everybody should follow the rules."
Earlier, Mr Corbyn said: "I recently had dinner at a friend's house where the number of guests eventually exceeded five.
"I understand that remaining at the dinner was a breach of the rule of six. I apologise for my mistake."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
During a Downing Street news conference on Wednesday, the prime minister urged the public to follow coronavirus guidelines.
"Bear in mind that the fines are now very considerable and they will be imposed," he said.
Face coverings have been compulsory in shops and public transport since 24 July, and last week the government guidance was extended to hospitality venues, theatres, restaurants, bars and pubs unless people need to remove them to eat or drink.
It is not the first time Stanley Johnson has made headlines.
In July he defended his decision to travel to Greece in an apparent breach of Foreign Office guidance to avoid non-essential travel.
And he admitted breaking lockdown rules when he went out to buy a newspaper after his grandchild was born in April, stating he was "not sure it's an essential journey", and also indicated in March that he would ignore the government's advice and go to the pub.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--Leave.EU apologises to Labour MP for calling her 'grooming gang apologist'

The Leave.EU campaign has apologised to Labour 's Bradford West MP Naz Shah after calling her a `` grooming gang apologist '' .
A post on the pro-Brexit group 's social media accounts said that the claims were `` ill-judged and untrue '' .
The group had been sued by Ms Shah , who was previously a shadow minister for women and equalities and is now shadow minister for community cohesion .
The case related to a post on the Leave.EU Facebook page , made on 16 December 2019 - just days after the general election on 12 December .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 2019 we posted a Facebook post which described Naz Shah MP as a 'grooming gangs apologist ' .
`` While the publication had been intended to be satirical ; we appreciate that it was ill-judged and untrue .
`` We accept that Ms Shah is not an 'apologist ' for grooming gangs but is a vociferous campaigner for victims of grooming gangs .
`` We apologise for the distress caused by it and have paid Ms Shah damages for libel . ''
The initial post was taken down on the same day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been widely shared .
Ms Shah said she welcomed the apology but that screenshots of the libel were still being circulated .
She said : `` I 'm one of the most abused MPs on Twitter because of this allegation .
`` It 's horrible , it 's really horrible .
`` The allegation of me being a grooming apologist has been horrendous .
`` The fact they 've accepted that I 'm a vociferous campaigner against grooming is important to me .
`` This is the kind of stuff that 's used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs .
`` It 's just not fair .
It 's just not right for it to happen . ''
Ms Shah added that she had been an prominent campaigner against child sexual exploitation .
She said : `` Islamic communities are absolutely appalled by it ( child sexual exploitation ) .
People I talk to are appalled by it .
`` I 'm on record talking about , I 've talked about it on Asian media channels and to the community .
It 's not something I 've shied away from at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the future . ''
Ms Shah added that she could not talk about the damages paid , and that she was happy with the apology .
`` It was never about anything else , '' she added .

The Leave.EU campaign has apologised to Labour's Bradford West MP Naz Shah after calling her a "grooming gang apologist".
A post on the pro-Brexit group's social media accounts said that the claims were "ill-judged and untrue".
The group had been sued by Ms Shah, who was previously a shadow minister for women and equalities and is now shadow minister for community cohesion.
Image: Ms Shah has spoken out about the "horrendous" abuse she has faced
The case related to a post on the Leave.EU Facebook page, made on 16 December 2019 - just days after the general election on 12 December.
The apology said: "On 16 December 2019 we posted a Facebook post which described Naz Shah MP as a 'grooming gangs apologist'.
"While the publication had been intended to be satirical; we appreciate that it was ill-judged and untrue.
"We accept that Ms Shah is not an 'apologist' for grooming gangs but is a vociferous campaigner for victims of grooming gangs.
"We apologise for the distress caused by it and have paid Ms Shah damages for libel."
The initial post was taken down on the same day it was posted, but had already been widely shared.
Advertisement
Ms Shah said she welcomed the apology but that screenshots of the libel were still being circulated.
She said: "I'm one of the most abused MPs on Twitter because of this allegation.
"It's horrible, it's really horrible.
"The allegation of me being a grooming apologist has been horrendous.
"The fact they've accepted that I'm a vociferous campaigner against grooming is important to me.
"This is the kind of stuff that's used against people in public life and other MPs.
"It's just not fair. It's just not right for it to happen."
Ms Shah added that she had been an prominent campaigner against child sexual exploitation.
She said: "Islamic communities are absolutely appalled by it (child sexual exploitation). People I talk to are appalled by it.
"I'm on record talking about, I've talked about it on Asian media channels and to the community. It's not something I've shied away from at all and I don't intend to in the future."
Ms Shah added that she could not talk about the damages paid, and that she was happy with the apology.
"It was never about anything else," she added.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-02--PM to hold talks with EU boss after Brexit legal action launched

Boris Johnson will hold talks with the head of the EU Commission - a day after she began legal action over his plan to potentially override the Brexit deal .
Ursula von der Leyen and the prime minister are due to talk on Saturday afternoon .
A Number 10 spokesperson said it is to `` take stock of negotiations and discuss next steps '' .
Brussels confirmed the news and added the conversation will be taking place over a video call .
While the two leaders will likely be focusing on trade talks to hammer out an agreement before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 2020 , Ms von der Leyen 's action yesterday will inevitably feature .
She accused Mr Johnson of breaching the `` good faith '' part of the withdrawal agreement , by drawing up a plan to override it in the event trade talks are unsuccessful .
A minister has admitted the move would break international law .
Before Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen 's call , the UK and EU 's two chief trade negotiators - Lord David Frost and Michel Barnier - will meet today .
Both sides need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ October deadline - the next meeting of all EU leaders where they would gather to sign it off .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Sources told Reuters that so far talks have `` failed to resolve all the outstanding issues '' .
The main stumbling blocks remain the issues of future fishing rights and state aid rules .
Mr Johnson has said previously he is prepared for there to be no deal .
'Time for those at the top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Analysis by Michelle Clifford , Europe correspondent Would n't you like to eavesdrop on that Saturday morning conversation between the man and woman either side of the Channel trying to deliver a Brexit deal with so little time left .
That they are talking at all has to be seen as a positive .
The call between the two will come just two days after the EU launched legal proceedings against the UK over its plans to override parts of the withdrawal agreement .
One imagines there will be some time set aside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the aim of the call is for the two to `` take stock '' of this week 's negotiations and figure out the next steps with just weeks left now until a deal is supposed to be decided .
The EU has remained tight-lipped about talk of some progress from the UK side but has acknowledged there are still significant gaps between their positions .
Will a frank conversation between the two shove things in the right direction ?
Negotiation teams have been hard at it in Brussels all week .
The EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But it 's now time for those at the top of the talks to put their cards well and truly on the table .

Big differences remain in post-Brexit trade talks with the UK, Brussels' chief negotiator has said.
As the deadline for cutting an agreement looms, Michel Barnier welcomed some "positive new developments" following this week's negotiations in Brussels.
But he warned there had been a "lack of progress" on issues like climate change commitments and "persistent, serious divergences on matters of major importance for the EU".
"We will continue to maintain a calm and respectful attitude, and we will remain united and determined until the end of these negotiations," Mr Barnier added in a statement released on Friday.
Image: Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen will speak on Saturday afternoon
The UK's Brexit negotiator, Lord David Frost, said the "outlines" of a free trade agreement with the EU are now "visible", but "familiar differences " remain and he is concerned there is "very little time" left.
Fisheries remain a major sticking point, although he said there had been "some limited progress" on the issue of state aid and a law enforcement agreement.
But the EU needs to "move further" if there was to be an agreement," he added.
He said the ninth round of negotiations was "constructive" and conducted in "good spirits", but the UK is still seeking an agreement "that ensures our ability to set our own laws without constraints that go beyond those appropriate to a free trade deal".
Lord Frost said that is true of most of the core areas of a trade and economic agreement - notably trade in goods and services, transport, energy, social security, and participation in EU programmes.
Advertisement
"On fisheries, the gap between us is unfortunately very large and, without further realism and flexibility from the EU, risks being impossible to bridge. These issues are fundamental to our future status as an independent country," he said.
"I am concerned that there is very little time now to resolve these issues ahead of the European Council on October 15."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 EU: PM breaching 'good faith' of Brexit deal
The latest round of negotiations come ahead of talks between the head of the EU Commission, President Ursula von der Leyen, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday afternoon.
A Number 10 spokesperson said it is to "take stock of negotiations and discuss next steps".
While the two leaders will likely be focusing on trade talks to hammer out an agreement before the transition period runs out at the end of 2020, Ms von der Leyen's action yesterday will inevitably feature.
She accused Mr Johnson of breaching the "good faith" part of the Withdrawal Agreement, by drawing up a plan to override it in the event trade talks are unsuccessful.
A minister has admitted the move would break international law.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Both the UK and the EU need to agree a deal by a 15 October deadline - the next meeting of all EU leaders where they would gather to sign it off.
Mr Johnson has said previously he is prepared for there to be no deal.
It has also emerged that European Council President Charles Michel will visit Ireland next week for a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin.
Image: Brexit trade talks are nearing the deadline
'Time for those at the top to put their cards on the table'
Analysis by Michelle Clifford, Europe correspondent
Wouldn't you like to eavesdrop on that Saturday morning conversation between the man and woman either side of the Channel trying to deliver a Brexit deal with so little time left.
That they are talking at all has to be seen as a positive.
The call between the two will come just two days after the EU launched legal proceedings against the UK over its plans to override parts of the withdrawal agreement.
One imagines there will be some time set aside for some firm words about that but the aim of the call is for the two to "take stock" of this week's negotiations and figure out the next steps with just weeks left now until a deal is supposed to be decided.
The EU has remained tight-lipped about talk of some progress from the UK side but has acknowledged there are still significant gaps between their positions.
Will a frank conversation between the two shove things in the right direction?
Negotiation teams have been hard at it in Brussels all week. The EU and UK chief negotiators met today.
But it's now time for those at the top of the talks to put their cards well and truly on the table.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-02--'Completely reckless': MP faces calls to quit after coronavirus rule breaches

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has criticised an MP 's `` completely reckless behaviour '' after she broke coronavirus rules .
Margaret Ferrier has been kicked out of the SNP parliamentary party but is facing calls to leave the Commons completely over her actions .
She travelled from Scotland to London on Monday despite having had COVID-19 symptoms and been tested , made a speech in parliament and then found out she was positive - before proceeding to travel home again by rail .
Live updates on coronavirus from US , UK and around world Sir Lindsay said her actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety in parliament and added there will be a `` review '' of the rules .
`` We believed there had been a breach of the law , '' he told Sky News .
`` People make mistakes but there is something completely different when they act in a reckless manner . ''
Nicola Sturgeon , Scotland 's First Minister and leader of the SNP , said she had told Ms Ferrier she `` should step down as an MP '' .
She tweeted : `` I did so with a heavy heart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - but her actions were dangerous and indefensible .
`` I have no power to force an MP to resign but I hope she will do the right thing . ''
Earlier , the SNP 's Westminster leader Ian Blackford said he was `` gobsmacked '' by Ms Ferrier 's behaviour .
`` I do n't have any powers over her ...
I ca n't force an MP to resign , '' he told Sky News ' Kay Burley show .
But he added : `` I think Margaret has got to reflect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She knows we will be judged by our actions ... '' I have to say , when you have a breach such as this it 's really important that you take your own responsibilities .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Margaret 's an honourable individual ... there is that responsibility - there 's that honour and dignity that you have to have as a public official , and I think it 's pretty clear Margaret should do the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compel her to do that but she has to reflect on the circumstances that she 's put herself and other people in . ''
Under the coronavirus rules , anyone who has symptoms should isolate until their test results come through and only be released if it comes back negative .
Ms Ferrier disregarded that - and also the duty for anyone who tests positive to stay at home , opting instead to take a train from Westminster to Glasgow .
The Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP , who won her seat from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faced calls to quit from other SNP politicians , including David Linden who said her position is not `` tenable '' and Kirsty Blackman who added her `` actions can not be overlooked '' .
A quick investigation as to whom Ms Ferrier could have infected identified one close contact - who has luckily tested negative for coronavirus , Mr Blackford added in his interview with Sky News .
She faces a fine of up to £4,000 under a new law that came into force on the day of her positive test result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking into the circumstances '' , along with the Metropolitan Police .
It follows a string of other high-profile figures breaking the rules , including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn who attended a dinner party with eight other people - breaching the rule of six .
And Dominic Cummings , Boris Johnson 's top adviser , made headlines in spring for travelling 260 miles from London to Durham during lockdown with COVID-19 symptoms , then travelling to a beauty spot to allegedly test his eyesight .

MP Margaret Ferrier is to be investigated by the police after she travelled between London and Glasgow despite knowing she had coronavirus.
A statement said: "Following consultation with Police Scotland, officers from the Metropolitan Police, working with British Transport Police, are conducting an investigation into potential offences."
The SNP politician travelled from Scotland to London on Monday.
She said she had made the journey because she felt much better after having COVID-19 symptoms and getting a test.
Ms Ferrier found out she was positive after making a speech in parliament, but still decided to travel hundreds of miles home by train.
She said there was "no excuse for my actions" and apologised "unreservedly for breaching COVID-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I shouldn't have".
Live updates on coronavirus from US, UK and around world
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 'Ferrier should reflect on her position as MP'
Ms Ferrier has already been kicked out of the SNP parliamentary party but is facing calls to leave the Commons completely.
Another MP, the DUP's Jim Shannon, was later identified as a "close contact" and had a test on Thursday that returned a negative result, but is now self-isolating "as a precaution".
Advertisement
Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the speaker of the Commons, said Ms Ferrier's actions were a "serious breach" of safety in parliament and that there would be a "review" of the rules.
"We believed there had been a breach of the law," he told Sky News.
"People make mistakes but there is something completely different when they act in a reckless manner."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:46 Speaker condemns MP with COVID
Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's first minister and leader of the SNP, said she had told Ms Ferrier she "should step down as an MP".
She tweeted: "I did so with a heavy heart - she is a friend and colleague - but her actions were dangerous and indefensible.
"I have no power to force an MP to resign but I hope she will do the right thing."
Image: Ms Sturgeon has told the Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP to quit
Earlier, the SNP's Westminster leader, Ian Blackford, said he was "gobsmacked" by Ms Ferrier's behaviour.
"I don't have any powers over her... I can't force an MP to resign," he told Sky News' Kay Burley show.
But he added: "I think Margaret has got to reflect on her position as an MP. She knows we will be judged by our actions...
"I have to say, when you have a breach such as this it's really important that you take your own responsibilities.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"Margaret's an honourable individual... there is that responsibility - there's that honour and dignity that you have to have as a public official, and I think it's pretty clear Margaret should do the right thing.
"I can't compel her to do that but she has to reflect on the circumstances that she's put herself and other people in."
Image: The MP traveled from Glasgow to London and back again
Under the coronavirus rules, anyone who has symptoms should isolate until their test results come through and only be released if it comes back negative.
Ms Ferrier disregarded that - and also the duty for anyone who tests positive to stay at home, opting instead to take a train from Westminster to Glasgow.
The Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP, who won her seat from Labour in the 2019 election, has faced calls to quit from other SNP politicians, including David Linden - who said her position is not "tenable" - and Kirsty Blackman who said her "actions cannot be overlooked".
A quick investigation as to whom Ms Ferrier could have infected identified one close contact - who has luckily tested negative, Mr Blackford told Sky News.
Image: Ms Ferrier made a speech in parliament despite not having had her test result back
She faces a fine of up to £4,000 under a new law that came into force on the day of her positive test.
Her actions follow other high-profile figures breaking the rules, including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn who attended a dinner party with eight other people - breaching the rule of six.
And Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's top adviser, made headlines in spring for travelling 260 miles from London to Durham during lockdown.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-02--What did Margaret Ferrier actually do – and which other high-profile figures have broken the r

What did Margaret Ferrier actually do – and which other high-profile figures have broken the rules?

SNP MP Margaret Ferrier is the latest high-profile figure to break coronavirus rules .
But what did she do and how does it compare to the political world 's other rule-breakers ?
Ms Ferrier , MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West , started experiencing `` mild symptoms '' of coronavirus in the afternoon and took a test .
It is not clear where she was at the time .
Ms Ferrier said she was `` feeling much better '' so took a train to London .
That evening , she gave a four-minute speech in the House of Commons during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point she received a positive result from the test but it is not clear whether this was before or after her parliamentary address .
Ms Ferrier said she boarded a train in the morning without seeking advice but began isolating when she arrived in Glasgow .
Two days after being notified about the positive test , she informed the SNP .
Party officials have said they did not know at this stage that she had taken the test before travelling to London .
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle was also told and contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Police Scotland and released a statement saying she was `` very sorry for my mistake '' and admitting she should have isolated while awaiting her test result .
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford suspended the whip from Ms Ferrier and party officials said they became aware she had taken a test before departing for parliament and had travelled back to Scotland knowing it had come back positive .
Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon condemned her actions as `` utterly indefensible '' , but , despite growing calls for Ms Ferrier to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her sacking .
Other people who have found themselves in the spotlight over the lockdown rules : The former Labour Party leader attended a dinner with eight other people , breaking the `` rule of six '' , which limits the number of people in social gatherings .
He later apologised `` for my mistake '' .
The prime minister 's father said he was `` extremely sorry '' after being pictured shopping in west London without wearing a face covering on 29 September , many weeks after they became mandatory .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Durham in March , more than 260 miles from where he lives in London - after the instruction was issued telling people they must stay at home .
He was recovering from coronavirus symptoms at the time but , despite calls for him to resign , he said he had behaved `` reasonably '' and had no regrets .
The scientist resigned in May from his role as a key government adviser after admitting that he had undermined social distancing rules by meeting his lover at his home .
Scotland Yard said his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not fine him because he had `` taken responsibility '' .
Scotland 's chief medical officer broke lockdown restrictions twice in April by visiting her second home , more than an hour away from her main residence in Edinburgh .
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon wanted her to stay but she ultimately resigned .
The housing , communities and local government secretary travelled more than an hour to visit his parents in April while everyone else was being told to stay at home .
Mr Jenrick was also criticised for travelling 150 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Herefordshire home from where he travelled to his parents ' home in Shropshire .
He insisted he was delivering food and medicine to his isolating parents .
The MP for Aberavon in South Wales travelled to celebrate his father 's 78th birthday on 28 March , early in the lockdown .
His father is former Labour leader Neil Kinnock .
After Mr Kinnock posted a photo on Twitter of himself practising social distancing with his parents outside their home , South Wales Police replied : `` We know celebrating your dad 's birthday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ however this is not essential travel . ''

SNP MP Margaret Ferrier is the latest high-profile figure to break coronavirus rules.
But what did she do and how does it compare to the political world's other rule-breakers?
Image: Margaret Ferrier, SNP MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West
Saturday 26 September
Ms Ferrier, MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, started experiencing "mild symptoms" of coronavirus in the afternoon and took a test. It is not clear where she was at the time.
Monday 28 September
Ms Ferrier said she was "feeling much better" so took a train to London.
That evening, she gave a four-minute speech in the House of Commons during a debate on coronavirus.
At some point she received a positive result from the test but it is not clear whether this was before or after her parliamentary address.
Tuesday 29 September
Advertisement
Ms Ferrier said she boarded a train in the morning without seeking advice but began isolating when she arrived in Glasgow.
Wednesday 30 September
Two days after being notified about the positive test, she informed the SNP. Party officials have said they did not know at this stage that she had taken the test before travelling to London.
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle was also told and contact tracing began.
Thursday 1 October
Ms Ferrier reported herself to Police Scotland and released a statement saying she was "very sorry for my mistake" and admitting she should have isolated while awaiting her test result.
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford suspended the whip from Ms Ferrier and party officials said they became aware she had taken a test before departing for parliament and had travelled back to Scotland knowing it had come back positive.
Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon condemned her actions as "utterly indefensible", but, despite growing calls for Ms Ferrier to go, Ms Sturgeon did not announce her sacking.
Other people who have found themselves in the spotlight over the lockdown rules:
Jeremy Corbyn
The former Labour Party leader attended a dinner with eight other people, breaking the "rule of six", which limits the number of people in social gatherings.
He later apologised "for my mistake".
Stanley Johnson
The prime minister's father said he was "extremely sorry" after being pictured shopping in west London without wearing a face covering on 29 September, many weeks after they became mandatory.
Dominic Cummings
The prime minister's closest aide drove to Durham in March, more than 260 miles from where he lives in London - after the instruction was issued telling people they must stay at home.
He was recovering from coronavirus symptoms at the time but, despite calls for him to resign, he said he had behaved "reasonably" and had no regrets.
Professor Neil Ferguson
The scientist resigned in May from his role as a key government adviser after admitting that he had undermined social distancing rules by meeting his lover at his home.
Scotland Yard said his behaviour was "plainly disappointing" but did not fine him because he had "taken responsibility".
Dr Catherine Calderwood
Scotland's chief medical officer broke lockdown restrictions twice in April by visiting her second home, more than an hour away from her main residence in Edinburgh.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon wanted her to stay but she ultimately resigned.
Robert Jenrick
The housing, communities and local government secretary travelled more than an hour to visit his parents in April while everyone else was being told to stay at home.
Mr Jenrick was also criticised for travelling 150 miles from his London property to his Herefordshire home from where he travelled to his parents' home in Shropshire.
He insisted he was delivering food and medicine to his isolating parents.
Stephen Kinnock
The MP for Aberavon in South Wales travelled to celebrate his father's 78th birthday on 28 March, early in the lockdown.
His father is former Labour leader Neil Kinnock.
After Mr Kinnock posted a photo on Twitter of himself practising social distancing with his parents outside their home, South Wales Police replied: "We know celebrating your dad's birthday is a lovely thing to do, however this is not essential travel."