skynewspolitics--2020-07-30--Care home residents and staff face five-week delay for routine COVID-19 test

The UK 's largest independent provider of social care says it no longer has access to regular testing for staff and residents because of an issue with a supplier used by the government .
In a letter leaked to Sky News , Care UK chief executive Andrew Knight says there will be a minimum of five weeks before the firm is able to access another round of testing for most of its homes in England .
`` We have been notified by the Department of Health and Social Care ( DHSC ) that due to an issue with a particular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no longer have access to weekly testing for colleagues or monthly testing for residents '' , says the care boss in a letter to residents .
`` Communication from the government on this matter has been sorely lacking '' , he adds .
`` I am sure many of you will find this situation as disappointing as I do , especially given the positive messages the government is still issuing about the scale of the testing programme it is supposedly offering . ''
The letter was leaked to Sky News by a concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of care homes as `` scandalous '' .
Care UK has confirmed that the letter is genuine .
The five week delay relates to asymptomatic testing of staff and residents ; officials pointed out that regular tests for those with COVID-19 symptoms were still available with no wait .
The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment .
The department pledged at the start of July that care home staff would be given coronavirus tests every week and residents on a monthly basis .
A report published this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care during the COVID-19 crisis found care homes were `` effectively thrown to the wolves '' .
The assessment by the House of Commons ' own spending watchdog , the Public Accounts Committee , said social care sector had been left as a poor relation to the NHS .
The decision to discharge 25,000 hospital patients into care homes without ensuring they had been tested for the virus was an example of the government 's `` slow , inconsistent and at times negligent '' approach to social care , the committee said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an `` appalling error '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Meg Hillier MP , chair of the committee , said : `` Our care homes were effectively thrown to the wolves , and the virus has ravaged some of them . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is facing legal action over his claim that he placed a `` protective ring '' around care homes .
Dr Cathy Gardner , whose 88-year-old father Michael Gibson died of suspected COVID-19 in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock retracts the remark .

The UK's largest independent provider of social care says it no longer has access to regular testing for staff and residents because of an issue with a supplier used by the government.
In a letter leaked to Sky News, Care UK chief executive Andrew Knight says there will be a minimum of five weeks before the firm is able to access another round of testing for most of its homes in England.
"We have been notified by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) that due to an issue with a particular test from one supplier, we will no longer have access to weekly testing for colleagues or monthly testing for residents", says the care boss in a letter to residents.
"Communication from the government on this matter has been sorely lacking", he adds.
"I am sure many of you will find this situation as disappointing as I do, especially given the positive messages the government is still issuing about the scale of the testing programme it is supposedly offering."
The letter was leaked to Sky News by a concerned relative who described the government's treatment of care homes as "scandalous".
Care UK has confirmed that the letter is genuine.
The five week delay relates to asymptomatic testing of staff and residents; officials pointed out that regular tests for those with COVID-19 symptoms were still available with no wait.
The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment.
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The department pledged at the start of July that care home staff would be given coronavirus tests every week and residents on a monthly basis.
A report published this week into the government's approach to social care during the COVID-19 crisis found care homes were "effectively thrown to the wolves".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:41 Care homes were 'thrown to the wolves'
The assessment by the House of Commons' own spending watchdog, the Public Accounts Committee, said social care sector had been left as a poor relation to the NHS.
The decision to discharge 25,000 hospital patients into care homes without ensuring they had been tested for the virus was an example of the government's "slow, inconsistent and at times negligent" approach to social care, the committee said.
It also described the move as being an "appalling error".
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Meg Hillier MP, chair of the committee, said: "Our care homes were effectively thrown to the wolves, and the virus has ravaged some of them."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is facing legal action over his claim that he placed a "protective ring" around care homes.
Dr Cathy Gardner, whose 88-year-old father Michael Gibson died of suspected COVID-19 in a care home, has demanded that Mr Hancock retracts the remark.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-30--China says UK has 'poisoned' relations and will 'pay the price' if it shuns Beijing

China 's ambassador to London has accused the UK of `` seriously poisoning '' relations between the countries - and warned it would `` pay the price '' if it shunned Beijing .
Referring to disputes over Hong Kong , tech giant Huawei and alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang , Liu Xiaoming said the UK was at a `` critical historical juncture '' in how it wanted to treat China .
He warned against allowing `` Cold War warriors '' - seemingly a reference to Donald Trump 's US administration - to further damage relations .
And speaking during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he rejected claims of abuse against Uighur Muslims , condemned the decision to exclude Huawei from the UK 's 5G network , and warned the UK not to interfere in Chinese internal affairs over Hong Kong .
`` These actions have seriously poisoned the atmosphere of the China-UK relationship , '' he said .
`` China respects UK sovereignty and has never interfered in the UK 's internal affairs .
`` It is important the UK will do the same - namely , respect China 's sovereignty and stop interfering in Hong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's internal affairs , so as to avoid further damage to the China-UK relationship . ''
Mr Liu insisted his comments were intended to `` threaten nobody '' .
`` We just let you know the consequences , '' he said .
`` People regard some of my remarks as threatening words .
I think they quote my remarks out of context .
`` But , if you do not want to be our partners and our friends , you want to treat China as a hostile country , you will pay the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lose the benefits of treating China as opportunities , as friends .
And you will bear the consequences of treating China as a hostile country . ''
Mr Trump 's White House has pushed allies to distance themselves from Beijing , and US sanctions ultimately led to the UK 's U-turn on Huawei 's involvement in 5G .
Boris Johnson 's government has also faced pressure from hawkish Tory MPs calling for a tougher stance .
But Beijing 's representative in the UK insisted the country should follow its own foreign policy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ our hope that the UK would resist the pressure and coercion from a certain country and provide an open , fair , transparent and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese investment so as to bring back the confidence of Chinese businesses in the UK . ''
He claimed that after issues of Brexit and COVID-19 had been dealt with , `` there will be unlimited prospects for China-UK co-operation in areas of trade , financial services , science and technology , education and healthcare '' .
`` It is hard to imagine a global Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
`` Decoupling from China means decoupling from opportunities , decoupling from growth and decoupling from the future . ''
He added that he hoped the two countries had `` enough wisdom and capabilities '' to manage their differences `` rather than allowing anti-China forces and Cold War warriors to kidnap the China-UK relationship '' .
`` Great Britain can not be great without independent foreign policies , '' he said .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab previously said UK-China relations would not return to normal in the wake of rifts between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeated denials , there have been widespread reports of Uighur Muslim people being held against their will in `` re-education '' centres , undergoing forced contraception and being subjected to a range of other restrictions .

China's ambassador to London has accused the UK of "seriously poisoning" relations between the countries - and warned it would "pay the price" if it shunned Beijing.
Referring to disputes over Hong Kong, tech giant Huawei and alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang, Liu Xiaoming said the UK was at a "critical historical juncture" in how it wanted to treat China.
He warned against allowing "Cold War warriors" - seemingly a reference to Donald Trump's US administration - to further damage relations.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:12 Video has emerged purportedly showing Uighur prisoners bound and blindfolded at a train station in China.
And speaking during a live news conference broadcast on Twitter, he rejected claims of abuse against Uighur Muslims, condemned the decision to exclude Huawei from the UK's 5G network, and warned the UK not to interfere in Chinese internal affairs over Hong Kong.
"These actions have seriously poisoned the atmosphere of the China-UK relationship," he said.
"China respects UK sovereignty and has never interfered in the UK's internal affairs.
"It is important the UK will do the same - namely, respect China's sovereignty and stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs, which are China's internal affairs, so as to avoid further damage to the China-UK relationship."
Mr Liu insisted his comments were intended to "threaten nobody".
"We just let you know the consequences," he said.
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"People regard some of my remarks as threatening words. I think they quote my remarks out of context.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:43 China's ambassador to the UK warns Huawei's ban from the 5G network will 'seriously damage' the trust between the two countries.
"But, if you do not want to be our partners and our friends, you want to treat China as a hostile country, you will pay the price.
"That means you will lose the benefits of treating China as opportunities, as friends. And you will bear the consequences of treating China as a hostile country."
Mr Trump's White House has pushed allies to distance themselves from Beijing, and US sanctions ultimately led to the UK's U-turn on Huawei's involvement in 5G.
Boris Johnson's government has also faced pressure from hawkish Tory MPs calling for a tougher stance.
But Beijing's representative in the UK insisted the country should follow its own foreign policy.
Mr Liu said: "It's our hope that the UK would resist the pressure and coercion from a certain country and provide an open, fair, transparent and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese investment so as to bring back the confidence of Chinese businesses in the UK."
He claimed that after issues of Brexit and COVID-19 had been dealt with, "there will be unlimited prospects for China-UK co-operation in areas of trade, financial services, science and technology, education and healthcare".
"It is hard to imagine a global Britain that bypasses or excludes China," he said.
"Decoupling from China means decoupling from opportunities, decoupling from growth and decoupling from the future."
He added that he hoped the two countries had "enough wisdom and capabilities" to manage their differences "rather than allowing anti-China forces and Cold War warriors to kidnap the China-UK relationship".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 18:38 The Foreign Secretary says business between the UK and China won't return to normal, following tension over Hong Kong and Huawei.
"Great Britain cannot be great without independent foreign policies," he said.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab previously said UK-China relations would not return to normal in the wake of rifts between the two countries.
Despite Beijing's repeated denials, there have been widespread reports of Uighur Muslim people being held against their will in "re-education" centres, undergoing forced contraception and being subjected to a range of other restrictions.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-30--Coronavirus, Brexit and climate change threaten food security for millions in the UK

A Minister for Food Security is urgently needed to deal with the threat posed by COVID-19 , Brexit and climate change , according to a cross-party group of MPs .
Millions of people have struggled to access food as a result of the coronavirus pandemic , with the number of food bank users doubling during lockdown .
The Environment , Food and Rural Affairs Committee warns that food insecurity is `` likely to get worse before it gets better '' because of risks including a second wave of coronavirus cases , as well as potential disruption and delays to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` disorderly Brexit '' .
The committee analysed the government 's response to the disruption to food supplies caused by COVID-19 .
Although committee chair Neil Parish said the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs response was `` commendable '' once the pandemic hit , the report questions why the government appeared unprepared for disruptions - such as supermarket shortages due to increased demand - which other countries had experienced when they went into lockdown before the UK .
Increased buying was not a result of `` panic '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reasonable and predictable response to the expectation that more meals would need to be eaten at home '' .
Mr Parish said despite the easing of lockdown `` problems with food security are far from over '' .
He added : `` Food banks and other food redistribution organisations have reacted heroically to a shocking spike in demand for food aid , but this problem is likely to get worse before it gets better .
`` It is therefore essential that the government appoints a new minister for food security who will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The government 's actions to lock down the country and close businesses were necessary , but they had huge impacts on the food sector and on food security . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The report also highlighted issues with the voucher scheme for free school meals .
Initially the vouchers could be used at supermarkets like Waitrose and M & S but not at Aldi or Lidl , which the report said was `` out of touch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to shop '' .
Around 4.9 million adults and 1.7 million children are currently facing food insecurity in the UK , according to the committee , which the UN defines as a lack of physical and economic access to sufficient and nutritious food .
The cross-party group is asking the government to consult on whether a 'right to food ' should be put in legislation .
A government spokesperson said : `` [ we have ] invested record levels of funding to help people get the food they need .
`` Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expertise across government to tackle the extraordinary circumstances of this pandemic and ensure those most vulnerable in our society are protected . ''

A Minister for Food Security is urgently needed to deal with the threat posed by COVID-19, Brexit and climate change, according to a cross-party group of MPs.
Millions of people have struggled to access food as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, with the number of food bank users doubling during lockdown.
The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee warns that food insecurity is "likely to get worse before it gets better" because of risks including a second wave of coronavirus cases, as well as potential disruption and delays to the food supply system as a result of a "disorderly Brexit".
The committee analysed the government's response to the disruption to food supplies caused by COVID-19.
Although committee chair Neil Parish said the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs response was "commendable" once the pandemic hit, the report questions why the government appeared unprepared for disruptions - such as supermarket shortages due to increased demand - which other countries had experienced when they went into lockdown before the UK.
Increased buying was not a result of "panic", according to the committee, but "a reasonable and predictable response to the expectation that more meals would need to be eaten at home".
Mr Parish said despite the easing of lockdown "problems with food security are far from over".
He added: "Food banks and other food redistribution organisations have reacted heroically to a shocking spike in demand for food aid, but this problem is likely to get worse before it gets better.
"It is therefore essential that the government appoints a new minister for food security who will stop this issue falling between the cracks.
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"The government's actions to lock down the country and close businesses were necessary, but they had huge impacts on the food sector and on food security."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The report also highlighted issues with the voucher scheme for free school meals. Initially the vouchers could be used at supermarkets like Waitrose and M&S but not at Aldi or Lidl, which the report said was "out of touch with the reality of where families were likely to shop".
Around 4.9 million adults and 1.7 million children are currently facing food insecurity in the UK, according to the committee, which the UN defines as a lack of physical and economic access to sufficient and nutritious food.
The cross-party group is asking the government to consult on whether a 'right to food' should be put in legislation.
A government spokesperson said: "[we have] invested record levels of funding to help people get the food they need.
"Our COVID-19 task force has also brought together expertise across government to tackle the extraordinary circumstances of this pandemic and ensure those most vulnerable in our society are protected."


skynewspolitics--2020-07-30--Scotland advises against travel to virus hotspots in the north of England

Scotland has advised against travel to virus hotspots in the north of England after new restrictions were imposed in several areas .
People in Greater Manchester , East Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire are now banned from meeting others from different households indoors , following a rise in infections .
The Scottish government said citizens should only travel to these areas if `` absolutely essential '' .
People already staying in the affected areas do not need to return to Scotland early but should monitor themselves for coronavirus symptoms .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said : `` We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely as we continue to suppress the virus but by responding quickly and appropriately we can limit the effect these have on wider transmission .
`` I strongly advise anyone planning to travel to areas affected in the north of England , or anyone planning to travel to Scotland from those same areas , to cancel their plans . ''
The news comes after the UK saw its highest daily total of COVID-19 cases for more than a month .
The R number has risen in England to between 0.8-0.9 , while it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the North West .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has told Sky News the new restrictions , which affect around four million people , are `` absolutely necessary '' .
• All of Greater Manchester : Bolton , Bury , Manchester , Oldham , Rochdale , Salford , Stockport , Tameside , Trafford , and Wigan • The city of Leicester , which saw the UK 's first local lockdown It means people in these areas will not be permitted to mix with other households ( apart from those in their support bubbles ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is understood there is currently no endpoint to the restrictions but they will be subject to a weekly review .
Some exemptions will be put in place , including for the vulnerable .
The government will sign new regulations to make these changes legally enforceable .
The regulations will give local authorities and police forces the powers to enforce these restrictions and more details on these will be set out when the regulations are published .
Households may go to hospitality , for instance bars and pubs , but new guidance will make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hospitality together .
Mr Hancock said `` households gathering and not abiding by the social distancing rules '' was a reason for the decision , which had been taken to `` keep the country safe '' .
Data shows that there has been less transmission in the area when people go to work or shops , he added .
`` This is not the sort of decision anybody would want to take but as we 've seen before it is important to move quickly , '' the health secretary said .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' to the Muslim community ahead of Eid celebrations , which will be heavily impacted by the new restrictions .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticised the way the announcement was made , branding it a `` new low for the government 's communications '' .
`` No one would argue with putting in place local action to reduce the transmission of coronavirus , '' he tweeted .
`` But announcing measures affecting potentially millions of people late at night on Twitter is a new low for the government 's communications during this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from backbench Conservatives over the handling of the announcement , with Hazel Grove MP Will Wragg tweeting : `` Greater Manchester is not one homogeneous area .
We must always err on the side of caution with COVID-19 , but to treat all 10 boroughs the same is not the right approach . ''
Graham Brady , MP for Altrincham & Sale West , shared the post , adding : `` I agree .
Latest update for Trafford says 'infections continue to be at a low level ' . ''
Out of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate of COVID-19 in the seven days to 27 July has gone up in 13 of them , with 1,536 cases recorded in the space of a week .
Leicester 's local lockdown was imposed at the end of June , but Labour 's MPs for the area - Liz Kendall , Jonathan Ashworth and Claudia Webbe - said on Twitter that some restrictions there will now be lifted .
`` The great news is our pubs , cafes , bars & restaurants can re-open and people can go on holiday with their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But leisure centres , gyms & pools still closed , and no meeting up with other households indoors . ''
The Department of Health later confirmed the restrictions will be eased from Monday .
Ms Webbe said Eid celebrations can take place at places of worship - provided social distancing is maintained - but not in private homes .
It has also been announced that from Saturday Luton will be brought in line with the rest of the country after `` significant progress '' .
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Greater Manchester over the last week and said the government was `` right to take quick action '' .
He said the rise in cases `` does n't just relate to multi-generational households '' but also a spike in cases amongst younger people .
Lisa Nandy , Labour 's shadow foreign secretary whose Wigan constituency is affected by the restrictions , told Sky News the government `` needs to be ready '' .
`` They need to make sure that the guidance and clarity is there when they announce , not trickling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around to schedule a press conference , '' she said .

Scotland has advised against travel to virus hotspots in the north of England after new restrictions were imposed in several areas.
People in Greater Manchester, East Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire are now banned from meeting others from different households indoors, following a rise in infections.
The Scottish government said citizens should only travel to these areas if "absolutely essential".
People already staying in the affected areas do not need to return to Scotland early but should monitor themselves for coronavirus symptoms.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "We have always been clear that localised flare-ups are likely as we continue to suppress the virus but by responding quickly and appropriately we can limit the effect these have on wider transmission.
"I strongly advise anyone planning to travel to areas affected in the north of England, or anyone planning to travel to Scotland from those same areas, to cancel their plans."
The news comes after the UK saw its highest daily total of COVID-19 cases for more than a month.
The R number has risen in England to between 0.8-0.9, while it is estimated to be between 0.8-1.1 in the North West.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has told Sky News the new restrictions, which affect around four million people, are "absolutely necessary".
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The order covers:
All of Greater Manchester: Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, and Wigan
East Lancashire: Pendle, Hyndburn, Burnley, Rossendale and Blackburn with Darwen
West Yorkshire: Bradford, Calderdale and Kirklees
The city of Leicester, which saw the UK's first local lockdown
It means people in these areas will not be permitted to mix with other households (apart from those in their support bubbles) in private homes or gardens.
It is understood there is currently no endpoint to the restrictions but they will be subject to a weekly review.
Some exemptions will be put in place, including for the vulnerable.
The government will sign new regulations to make these changes legally enforceable.
The regulations will give local authorities and police forces the powers to enforce these restrictions and more details on these will be set out when the regulations are published.
Households may go to hospitality, for instance bars and pubs, but new guidance will make clear that two households should not go to hospitality together.
Mr Hancock said "households gathering and not abiding by the social distancing rules" was a reason for the decision, which had been taken to "keep the country safe".
Data shows that there has been less transmission in the area when people go to work or shops, he added.
"This is not the sort of decision anybody would want to take but as we've seen before it is important to move quickly," the health secretary said.
He also said his "heart goes out" to the Muslim community ahead of Eid celebrations, which will be heavily impacted by the new restrictions.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticised the way the announcement was made, branding it a "new low for the government's communications".
"No one would argue with putting in place local action to reduce the transmission of coronavirus," he tweeted.
"But announcing measures affecting potentially millions of people late at night on Twitter is a new low for the government's communications during this crisis."
There is disquiet too from backbench Conservatives over the handling of the announcement, with Hazel Grove MP Will Wragg tweeting: "Greater Manchester is not one homogeneous area. We must always err on the side of caution with COVID-19, but to treat all 10 boroughs the same is not the right approach."
Graham Brady, MP for Altrincham & Sale West, shared the post, adding: "I agree. Latest update for Trafford says 'infections continue to be at a low level'."
Out of the 19 local authority areas affected, the rate of COVID-19 in the seven days to 27 July has gone up in 13 of them, with 1,536 cases recorded in the space of a week.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:12 COVID-19: Isolation period extended
Leicester's local lockdown was imposed at the end of June, but Labour's MPs for the area - Liz Kendall, Jonathan Ashworth and Claudia Webbe - said on Twitter that some restrictions there will now be lifted.
"The great news is our pubs, cafes, bars & restaurants can re-open and people can go on holiday with their own household," Ms Kendall tweeted.
"But leisure centres, gyms & pools still closed, and no meeting up with other households indoors."
The Department of Health later confirmed the restrictions will be eased from Monday.
Ms Webbe said Eid celebrations can take place at places of worship - provided social distancing is maintained - but not in private homes.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 UK's excess death rate worst in Europe
It has also been announced that from Saturday Luton will be brought in line with the rest of the country after "significant progress".
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham told Sky News the "picture changed" in Greater Manchester over the last week and said the government was "right to take quick action".
He said the rise in cases "doesn't just relate to multi-generational households" but also a spike in cases amongst younger people.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:19 Hancock announces meet-up bans in North
Lisa Nandy, Labour's shadow foreign secretary whose Wigan constituency is affected by the restrictions, told Sky News the government "needs to be ready".
"They need to make sure that the guidance and clarity is there when they announce, not trickling out over Twitter and then hastily scrambling around to schedule a press conference," she said.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--Another care firm getting no regular virus tests due to safety issues

Another major care provider says it has no access to regular coronavirus testing because of safety issues with a supplier used by the government .
The country 's largest charitable care provider MHA says it has been without routine testing for staff and residents for over two weeks because of problems with Randox tests .
It follows revelations by Sky News that the firm Care UK was facing a five week wait for routine tests .
The development casts further doubt on the government 's pledge to provide weekly testing for care workers and monthly testing for residents .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : `` To say that we are disappointed and frustrated by this latest failure in the care home testing regime is an understatement . ''
`` The impact continues to be felt hardest by our residents and their families who have had to forgo contact with their loved ones to keep them safe and our staff who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic , '' he added .
MHA runs 222 care homes and schemes supporting 18,500 residents and members across the UK .
The Department for Health and Social Care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment , but officials have said care homes can still access immediate tests for anyone who has symptoms .
On 3 July Health Secretary Matt Hancock promised regular testing in care homes for those without symptoms to establish if the virus was being unknowingly transmitted .
But Sky News revealed on Thursday that Care UK - one of the UK 's largest social care providers - had been told by the government that it would no longer be able to access routine testing .
In a leaked letter , the firm 's CEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this matter has been sorely lacking '' and that `` this experience is mirrored across other major care organisations '' .
The shortages are connected to a decision two weeks ago by the government to pause the use of tests produced by Randox Laboratories after safety concerns were raised .
A third care provider , Norfolk-based Arms Care , told Sky News they have never had any access to regular testing .
`` There is a deep feeling of anxiety amongst the staff and that 's partly because nobody really knows who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got it and whether there is a danger of bringing it into the home '' , the firm 's Managing Director Raj Sehgal said .
A report published this week into the government 's approach to social care during the COVID-19 crisis found care homes were `` effectively thrown to the wolves '' .
The assessment by the cross party Public Accounts Committee said the social care sector had been left as a poor relation to the NHS .
The decision to discharge 25,000 hospital patients into care homes without ensuring they had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ example of the government 's `` slow , inconsistent and at times negligent '' approach to social care , the committee said .
Labour MP Meg Hillier , who chairs the committee , said : `` Our care homes were effectively thrown to the wolves , and the virus has ravaged some of them . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is also facing legal action over his claim that he placed a `` protective ring '' around care homes .
Dr Cathy Gardner , whose 88-year-old father Michael Gibson died of suspected COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Mr Hancock retracts the remark .

Another major care provider says it has no access to regular coronavirus testing because of safety issues with a supplier used by the government.
The country's largest charitable care provider MHA says it has been without routine testing for staff and residents for over two weeks because of problems with Randox tests.
It follows revelations by Sky News that the firm Care UK was facing a five week wait for routine tests.
Image: MHA is the country's largest charitable care provider
The development casts further doubt on the government's pledge to provide weekly testing for care workers and monthly testing for residents.
The chief executive of MHA, Sam Monaghan, said: "To say that we are disappointed and frustrated by this latest failure in the care home testing regime is an understatement."
"The impact continues to be felt hardest by our residents and their families who have had to forgo contact with their loved ones to keep them safe and our staff who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic," he added.
MHA runs 222 care homes and schemes supporting 18,500 residents and members across the UK.
Image: The issue is due to safety concern with some tests
The Department for Health and Social Care has not yet responded to requests for comment, but officials have said care homes can still access immediate tests for anyone who has symptoms.
On 3 July Health Secretary Matt Hancock promised regular testing in care homes for those without symptoms to establish if the virus was being unknowingly transmitted.
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But Sky News revealed on Thursday that Care UK - one of the UK's largest social care providers - had been told by the government that it would no longer be able to access routine testing.
In a leaked letter, the firm's CEO said "communication from the government on this matter has been sorely lacking" and that "this experience is mirrored across other major care organisations".
The shortages are connected to a decision two weeks ago by the government to pause the use of tests produced by Randox Laboratories after safety concerns were raised.
A third care provider, Norfolk-based Arms Care, told Sky News they have never had any access to regular testing.
"There is a deep feeling of anxiety amongst the staff and that's partly because nobody really knows who has got it, and who has not got it and whether there is a danger of bringing it into the home", the firm's Managing Director Raj Sehgal said.
Image: Matt Hancock had promised regular testing in care homes
A report published this week into the government's approach to social care during the COVID-19 crisis found care homes were "effectively thrown to the wolves".
The assessment by the cross party Public Accounts Committee said the social care sector had been left as a poor relation to the NHS.
The decision to discharge 25,000 hospital patients into care homes without ensuring they had been tested for the virus was an example of the government's "slow, inconsistent and at times negligent" approach to social care, the committee said.
Labour MP Meg Hillier, who chairs the committee, said: "Our care homes were effectively thrown to the wolves, and the virus has ravaged some of them."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is also facing legal action over his claim that he placed a "protective ring" around care homes.
Dr Cathy Gardner, whose 88-year-old father Michael Gibson died of suspected COVID-19 in a care home, has demanded that Mr Hancock retracts the remark.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--Universal credit 'harms the most vulnerable', says major report amid surge in claims

Universal Credit is failing millions of people and driving the most vulnerable deeper into poverty , according to a new report .
A House of Lords committee - including former Tory ministers - today calls for urgent reforms to make the benefit system `` fit for purpose '' , saying it is particularly harmful to women , disabled people and the poorest .
Some 3.2 million people made new Universal Credit claims between the start of the lockdown in March and mid-June , with expectations of surge later in the year when the furlough scheme ends .
Conservative chair of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky News the peers had been `` appalled and shocked '' by some aspects of the system , which rolls six benefits into one monthly payment , although they believe the principle of it should be retained .
`` We are talking here about people who do n't have savings , who do n't have a cushion , '' Lord Forsyth said .
`` And the people who suffer are their children who they ca n't feed….I believe there are going to be massive increases in unemployment by Christmas and its essential that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grants for all claimants , to offset the five-week for the first payment • Fewer punitive sanctions , which it says are `` unfair and counterproductive '' • More support to get claimants into training , given the depressed job market • Fixed payments for up to three months , to prevent fluctuations from month to month which leave claimants unable to budget .
• A temporary £20-a-week rise in payments due to Covid to be made permanent • Writing off around £6bn of debt from the previous benefit system - which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to 30 % a month `` often at no fault of their own '' At the food bank in North London run by volunteers from Bounds Green Mutual Aid more than 70 people a day ask for help .
Difficulties with Universal Credit are not new , and many of their visitors spoke of being driven to handouts by delays and sanctions .
Coordinator Anthy Orphanou said COVID has definitely impacted on the numbers they see .
`` We feel it 's getting worse because we see people here from all walks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We 've had couples coming here saying we 've donated for years and now we need the food bank ourselves . ''
Immanuel Faucher , 65 , lost his job as a production manager last year , in a company he had worked in since he was a teenager , and claimed benefits for the first time .
He said he waited six weeks for his first universal credit payment , and borrowed money during that time which he is still repaying .
`` I 've worked all my life , since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
`` I worked my way up to being manager and my family were very proud .
`` Those six weeks I got into so much debt , I had to beg people for money .
To be doing something like this , for me it 's shameful . ''
The Bank of England predicted last month that 11 % of the UK workforce could be out of a job by the end of the year .
The Lords report praised frontline Department for Work and Pensions staff for their response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ millions of new claimants .
Responding to the report , Welfare Minister Will Quince said : `` The case for Universal Credit has never been stronger .
The system defied its critics in unprecedented and unforeseeable circumstances , processing more than 3.2m new claims at pace since mid-March and paying more than a million advances worth hundreds of millions of pounds to those in urgent need within days .
`` We remain committed to supporting the most vulnerable in society , which is why we currently spend over £95 billion a year on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also increased the Universal Credit standard allowance by up to £1,040 a year , as part of a package of welfare measures worth over £9.3 billion .
`` We welcome the acknowledgement by the Committee that Universal Credit is here to stay and we will consider their recommendations in detail . ''

Universal Credit is failing millions of people and driving the most vulnerable deeper into poverty, according to a new report.
A House of Lords committee - including former Tory ministers - today calls for urgent reforms to make the benefit system "fit for purpose", saying it is particularly harmful to women, disabled people and the poorest.
Some 3.2 million people made new Universal Credit claims between the start of the lockdown in March and mid-June, with expectations of surge later in the year when the furlough scheme ends.
Conservative chair of the committee Lord Forsyth of Drumlean told Sky News the peers had been "appalled and shocked" by some aspects of the system, which rolls six benefits into one monthly payment, although they believe the principle of it should be retained.
"We are talking here about people who don't have savings, who don't have a cushion," Lord Forsyth said. "And the people who suffer are their children who they can't feed….I believe there are going to be massive increases in unemployment by Christmas and its essential that changes are made."
The Lords Economic Affairs Committee has recommended:
Compulsory grants for all claimants, to offset the five-week for the first payment
Fewer punitive sanctions, which it says are "unfair and counterproductive"
More support to get claimants into training, given the depressed job market
Fixed payments for up to three months, to prevent fluctuations from month to month which leave claimants unable to budget.
A temporary £20-a-week rise in payments due to Covid to be made permanent
Writing off around £6bn of debt from the previous benefit system - which is charged to claimants at a rate of up to 30% a month "often at no fault of their own"
At the food bank in North London run by volunteers from Bounds Green Mutual Aid more than 70 people a day ask for help. Difficulties with Universal Credit are not new, and many of their visitors spoke of being driven to handouts by delays and sanctions.
Image: Anthy Orphanou says people who used to donate to the food bank are now coming in for handouts
Coordinator Anthy Orphanou said COVID has definitely impacted on the numbers they see.
"We feel it's getting worse because we see people here from all walks of life", she said. "We've had couples coming here saying we've donated for years and now we need the food bank ourselves."
Advertisement
Immanuel Faucher, 65, lost his job as a production manager last year, in a company he had worked in since he was a teenager, and claimed benefits for the first time.
He said he waited six weeks for his first universal credit payment, and borrowed money during that time which he is still repaying.
"I've worked all my life, since I was 15 years old", he said. "I worked my way up to being manager and my family were very proud.
"Those six weeks I got into so much debt, I had to beg people for money. To be doing something like this, for me it's shameful."
Image: Immanuel Faucher was made redundant after 50 years with the same company
The Bank of England predicted last month that 11% of the UK workforce could be out of a job by the end of the year.
The Lords report praised frontline Department for Work and Pensions staff for their response to the pandemic and efforts to register millions of new claimants.
Responding to the report, Welfare Minister Will Quince said: "The case for Universal Credit has never been stronger. The system defied its critics in unprecedented and unforeseeable circumstances, processing more than 3.2m new claims at pace since mid-March and paying more than a million advances worth hundreds of millions of pounds to those in urgent need within days.
"We remain committed to supporting the most vulnerable in society, which is why we currently spend over £95 billion a year on the benefits system.
"We've also increased the Universal Credit standard allowance by up to £1,040 a year, as part of a package of welfare measures worth over £9.3 billion.
"We welcome the acknowledgement by the Committee that Universal Credit is here to stay and we will consider their recommendations in detail."


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--BAFTA nominees urge government for further arts funding

Three of tonight 's BAFTAs nominees have urged the government to provide further funding for the arts sector during the coronavirus crisis .
Best Female Comedy Performance nominees Sian Clifford , Gbemisola Ikumelo , and Sarah Kendall all called for further action from the UK government , ahead of tonight 's awards .
When asked by Sky News at a Q & A about how the government should support the industry , all three said more money was needed for the sector .
Famalam writer and star Ikumelo explained how the arts were supporting young people from her home community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... it 's not just rich people who are going out on a Friday night .
That theatre experience was [ there ] for me as a kid .
`` [ It 's for ] local people living out on the ends ... they 're choosing that over hanging out in gangs .
`` It 's so important that we understand the community that theatre , live art , all that stuff , plays into society and not overlook it , '' she added .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker In early July , the Government announced a £1.57bn coronavirus funding package for theatres and live music venues , which is being distributed in grants and loans .
The package was welcomed by the director of the National Theatre , and the composer Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber .
But a senior Conservative MP said the money would only provide temporary help , and Labour called the handout `` too little too late '' .
The actor has also starred this year in Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-inspired drama Quiz , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chichester , before becoming a West End hit , and finally transposing onto TV .
`` People have to look at what 's kept them going during this entire time , and it 's entertainment , and so much of what we 're watching was basically born out of theatre .
`` People do n't realise the sort of food chain ... the role that theatre plays in how people are discovered . ''
A 2019 report for the Arts Council of England from the Centre for Economics and Business Research found at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry contributed £10.8bn a year to the UK economy .
`` I think the long term economic impact ... it 's incomprehensible ... bearing in mind other things that are being supported at this time , there 's no question .
`` You absolutely have to show up for people and their communities , '' Clifford said .
Kendall , who is from Australia , wrote and starred in Sky comedy Frayed .
She described theatres as `` the cultural hub '' of the UK .
`` I include myself in this - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take part in the live comedy scene .
That 's why it does produce world class talent .
`` It 's that really obvious food chain .
They need to be supported . ''
`` And I think there 's going to be a really big role that the theatre , comedy , laughter , all of that stuff , plays in the nation healing , '' Ikumelo added .
`` If the industry is crippled , and there is nothing to go back to , it will have an effect to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BAFTAs airs tonight at 7pm on BBC One .

Three of tonight's BAFTAs nominees have urged the government to provide further funding for the arts sector during the coronavirus crisis.
Best Female Comedy Performance nominees Sian Clifford, Gbemisola Ikumelo, and Sarah Kendall all called for further action from the UK government, ahead of tonight's awards.
When asked by Sky News at a Q&A about how the government should support the industry, all three said more money was needed for the sector.
Famalam writer and star Ikumelo explained how the arts were supporting young people from her home community.
Image: Gbemisola Ikumelo is nominated for writing and starring in BBC Three sketch-show Famalam
"Those spaces, those venues...it's not just rich people who are going out on a Friday night. That theatre experience was [there] for me as a kid.
"[It's for] local people living out on the ends...they're choosing that over hanging out in gangs.
"It's so important that we understand the community that theatre, live art, all that stuff, plays into society and not overlook it," she added.
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:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In early July, the Government announced a £1.57bn coronavirus funding package for theatres and live music venues, which is being distributed in grants and loans.
Advertisement
The package was welcomed by the director of the National Theatre, and the composer Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber.
But a senior Conservative MP said the money would only provide temporary help, and Labour called the handout "too little too late".
Clifford, who plays Claire in Fleabag, agrees.
Image: Clifford is nominated for her role as Claire in BBC and Amazon Prime's Fleabag
The actor has also starred this year in Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-inspired drama Quiz, which began as a theatre show in Chichester, before becoming a West End hit, and finally transposing onto TV.
"People have to look at what's kept them going during this entire time, and it's entertainment, and so much of what we're watching was basically born out of theatre.
"People don't realise the sort of food chain...the role that theatre plays in how people are discovered."
Image: Sarah Kendall is up or her role as Sammy Cooper in Sky's Frayed
A 2019 report for the Arts Council of England from the Centre for Economics and Business Research found at the time that the arts and culture industry contributed £10.8bn a year to the UK economy.
"I think the long term economic impact...it's incomprehensible...bearing in mind other things that are being supported at this time, there's no question.
"You absolutely have to show up for people and their communities," Clifford said.
Kendall, who is from Australia, wrote and starred in Sky comedy Frayed. She described theatres as "the cultural hub" of the UK.
Image: It's estimated the arts and culture industry contributes over £10bn to the UK economy
"I include myself in this - people move from all over the world to take part in the live comedy scene. That's why it does produce world class talent.
"It's that really obvious food chain. They need to be supported."
"And I think there's going to be a really big role that the theatre, comedy, laughter, all of that stuff, plays in the nation healing," Ikumelo added.
"If the industry is crippled, and there is nothing to go back to, it will have an effect to communities."
The virtual Virgin Media BAFTAs airs tonight at 7pm on BBC One.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--'Near the limit': Lockdown easing postponed and face mask rules expanded

The planned easing of lockdown restrictions in England has been postponed for at least a fortnight - with face masks to become mandatory by law in most public indoor settings on 8 August .
Boris Johnson told a Downing Street briefing that the decision to `` squeeze that brake pedal '' on changes had been taken due to coronavirus infection numbers `` creeping up '' and `` in order to keep the virus under control '' .
England 's Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty , meanwhile , warned the country had `` probably reached near the limits , or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in terms of opening up society '' without causing a further spike in COVID-19 cases .
It means plans due to come in to force on Saturday to reopen casinos , bowling alleys and skating rinks will not now happen until 15 August at the earliest .
In addition , indoor performances will not resume , pilots of larger gatherings in sports venues and conference centres will not take place , and wedding receptions of up to 30 people will not be permitted , as had been planned .
The prime minister also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be extended to make them mandatory in most public indoor settings , `` such as museums , galleries , cinemas and places of worship '' .
He said this measure would become enforceable in law from 8 August .
Mr Johnson also revealed what he described as a `` pretty punchy '' new slogan - `` Hands , face , space '' - for people to keep in mind .
The PM later tweeted : `` There are some very simple ways we can all protect ourselves and others from the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country are following the rules and doing their best to control the virus , '' he said .
`` But we must keep our discipline and our focus and we can not be complacent .
`` I have asked the Home Secretary to work with the police and others to ensure the rules which are already in place are properly enforced . ''
He said this would mean `` a greater police presence to ensure face coverings are being worn where this is required '' .
`` At this stage , we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nationally , '' he added , before warning a further tightening of restrictions may be necessary .
`` I do n't want to tell people to spend less time with their friends , '' he said .
`` But unless people follow the rules and behave safely , we may need to go further . ''
Mr Whitty said : `` We all know that what we have to try and do is to get to the absolute edge of what we can do in terms of opening up society and the economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus starts to take off again .
`` We have probably reached near the limits , or the limits , of what we can do in terms of opening up society . ''
It came as the government 's scientific advisory group ( SAGE ) , of which he is a key member , said it `` does not have confidence '' the R number is currently below the crucial figure of 1 in England .
The latest estimate puts the R rate - which refers to the number of people on average @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on to - at between 0.8-0.9 .
But SAGE said estimates reflected the transmission levels of coronavirus from several weeks ago , as there is a delay between people becoming infected and needing healthcare .
It comes after new rules announced overnight saw separate households banned from meeting indoors from today , in Greater Manchester , East Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News those new restrictions were `` absolutely necessary '' , adding : `` When you face a pandemic like this , it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what needed . ''
Latest figures show there were 880 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus up to 9am on Friday , bringing the total to 303,181 .
The government said a total of 46,119 have now died in hospitals , care homes and the wider community after testing positive for coronavirus as of 5pm on Thursday , up by 120 on the day before .

The planned easing of lockdown restrictions in England has been postponed for at least a fortnight - with face masks to become mandatory by law in most public indoor settings on 8 August.
Boris Johnson told a Downing Street briefing that the decision to "squeeze that brake pedal" on changes had been taken due to coronavirus infection numbers "creeping up" and "in order to keep the virus under control".
England's Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty, meanwhile, warned the country had "probably reached near the limits, or the limits, of what we can do in terms of opening up society" without causing a further spike in COVID-19 cases.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:18 'At outer edge' of lockdown easing
It means plans due to come in to force on Saturday to reopen casinos, bowling alleys and skating rinks will not now happen until 15 August at the earliest.
In addition, indoor performances will not resume, pilots of larger gatherings in sports venues and conference centres will not take place, and wedding receptions of up to 30 people will not be permitted, as had been planned.
The prime minister also announced that rules around face coverings would be extended to make them mandatory in most public indoor settings, "such as museums, galleries, cinemas and places of worship".
He said this measure would become enforceable in law from 8 August.
Mr Johnson also revealed what he described as a "pretty punchy" new slogan - "Hands, face, space" - for people to keep in mind.
The PM later tweeted: "There are some very simple ways we can all protect ourselves and others from the spread of coronavirus.
Advertisement
"Wash your hands, cover your face & make space. #HandsFaceSpace"
Image: A poster showing the government's new advice
"Most people in this country are following the rules and doing their best to control the virus," he said.
"But we must keep our discipline and our focus and we cannot be complacent.
"I have asked the Home Secretary to work with the police and others to ensure the rules which are already in place are properly enforced."
He said this would mean "a greater police presence to ensure face coverings are being worn where this is required".
"At this stage, we are not changing the rules on social contact nationally," he added, before warning a further tightening of restrictions may be necessary.
"I don't want to tell people to spend less time with their friends," he said.
"But unless people follow the rules and behave safely, we may need to go further."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 PM's off-mic moment after 'hands, face, space' repetition
Mr Whitty said: "We all know that what we have to try and do is to get to the absolute edge of what we can do in terms of opening up society and the economy without getting to the point where the virus starts to take off again.
"We have probably reached near the limits, or the limits, of what we can do in terms of opening up society."
It came as the government's scientific advisory group (SAGE), of which he is a key member, said it "does not have confidence" the R number is currently below the crucial figure of 1 in England.
The latest estimate puts the R rate - which refers to the number of people on average that an infected person passes the virus on to - at between 0.8-0.9.
But SAGE said estimates reflected the transmission levels of coronavirus from several weeks ago, as there is a delay between people becoming infected and needing healthcare.
It comes after new rules announced overnight saw separate households banned from meeting indoors from today, in Greater Manchester, East Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News those new restrictions were "absolutely necessary", adding: "When you face a pandemic like this, it is important to move quickly if that's what needed."
Latest figures show there were 880 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus up to 9am on Friday, bringing the total to 303,181.
The government said a total of 46,119 have now died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for coronavirus as of 5pm on Thursday, up by 120 on the day before.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--PM has been spooked as England enters tricky new chapter in coronavirus story

The honeymoon is over .
Gone is the optimistic tone of normality returning by Christmas as the scales of influence tip back from the economists to the scientists .
So the brakes have been put on .
But what could come next ?
In a hint at a new strategy , we now hear of the need for `` trade-offs '' with the chief medical officer saying the country is at the limit of what can be re-opened .
That will lead some to wonder what will need to shut down for things like schools to reopen safely .
Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in the number of people testing positive in England and worrying signs of a second wave brewing on the continent .
The prime minister knows a botched reopening and painful second wave would be a tragedy on a human level and a catastrophe on a political one .
So amid a volley of incoming fire about apparent delays bringing in lockdown , the government is now unapologetic about acting rapidly and sometimes brutally .
Accusations of an excessively broad brush approach have been levelled at the restrictions on Spain and the measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reintroduction of controls will lead some to conclude they should have never been eased in the first place .
The course of the virus in the devolved nations - who have taken a more cautious approach - could also show up the Westminster government .
But despite the shift in tone back to public health , the economy still matters .
The chancellor 's much-lauded furlough scheme starts to phase out from tomorrow .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ice will wonder why they are not being given extra support .
The noises of caution coming from Westminster may also put the frighteners on levels of shopping and spending .
England has entered a new chapter in its coronavirus story .
It may not be as tragic as those that have come before , but it will be just as tricky .

The honeymoon is over.
Gone is the optimistic tone of normality returning by Christmas as the scales of influence tip back from the economists to the scientists.
So the brakes have been put on. But what could come next?
In a hint at a new strategy, we now hear of the need for "trade-offs" with the chief medical officer saying the country is at the limit of what can be re-opened.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:18 'At outer edge' of lockdown easing
That will lead some to wonder what will need to shut down for things like schools to reopen safely.
Boris Johnson has clearly been spooked by an increase in the number of people testing positive in England and worrying signs of a second wave brewing on the continent.
The prime minister knows a botched reopening and painful second wave would be a tragedy on a human level and a catastrophe on a political one.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:30 'We need to squeeze brake pedal'
So amid a volley of incoming fire about apparent delays bringing in lockdown, the government is now unapologetic about acting rapidly and sometimes brutally.
But moving fast risks breaking things.
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Accusations of an excessively broad brush approach have been levelled at the restrictions on Spain and the measures in the North West.
A heavy-handed reintroduction of controls will lead some to conclude they should have never been eased in the first place.
The course of the virus in the devolved nations - who have taken a more cautious approach - could also show up the Westminster government.
But despite the shift in tone back to public health, the economy still matters.
The chancellor's much-lauded furlough scheme starts to phase out from tomorrow.
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:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Businesses forced to put reopening plans on ice will wonder why they are not being given extra support.
The noises of caution coming from Westminster may also put the frighteners on levels of shopping and spending.
England has entered a new chapter in its coronavirus story.
It may not be as tragic as those that have come before, but it will be just as tricky.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--How the PM's coronavirus slogans have changed

First we were told to `` stay home '' .
Then we were warned to `` stay alert '' .
Now , Britons are being advised to remember `` hands , face , space '' .
The messaging from the government has changed throughout the coronavirus pandemic , reflecting the different stages of the UK 's fight against COVID-19 .
This clear and stark advice from ministers became embedded in the national consciousness in the early days of the pandemic .
It was front and centre of the government 's messaging when the lockdown was introduced in March .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shutdown - to slow the spread of the virus and stop the health service being overwhelmed .
For Britons , it was their duty to stay at home as much as they could .
They would be doing their bit in the national effort against the coronavirus .
In early May , Boris Johnson felt sufficiently confident enough to outline a roadmap out of the lockdown .
The prime minister set out plans for a phased reopening of parts of the economy - such as non-essential retail and hospitality - as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school .
Alongside this , a new slogan was unveiled .
Where once Britons were told to stay at home , now they were being told to `` stay alert '' .
But the slogan drew criticism for being vague .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said at the time : `` Stay alert is n't clear , most people have been saying what does that mean ?
So , there 's a very , you know , basic issue here about communications . ''
The leaders of the devolved administrations also refused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice , sticking with the `` stay home '' message .
They said it was too soon to be changing the messaging .
With a range of lockdown restrictions lifted , life in the UK began returning to something approaching normality in July .
But progress in the fight against COVID-19 remains tentative and fragile .
This is illustrated by the introduction of the first local lockdown in Leicester and restrictions being placed on separate households meeting up in parts of northern England .
And with the infection numbers edging upwards , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pedal '' and postpone the latest planned easing of lockdown .
In a Downing Street press conference to announce the move , Mr Johnson revealed what he described as a `` pretty punchy '' new slogan - `` Hands , face , space '' .
`` Wash your hands , cover your face in the settings that we had mentioned and keep your distance from other people where you do n't know them , you 're coming into contact with them for the first time , and of course get a test and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the PM said .
He added : `` I think everybody can more or less remember that . ''

First we were told to "stay home". Then we were warned to "stay alert". Now, Britons are being advised to remember "hands, face, space".
The messaging from the government has changed throughout the coronavirus pandemic, reflecting the different stages of the UK's fight against COVID-19.
'Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives'
This clear and stark advice from ministers became embedded in the national consciousness in the early days of the pandemic.
Image: Britons were told to stay at home as much as they could during the early months of the pandemic
It was front and centre of the government's messaging when the lockdown was introduced in March.
The slogan reinforced the aim of the national shutdown - to slow the spread of the virus and stop the health service being overwhelmed.
For Britons, it was their duty to stay at home as much as they could. They would be doing their bit in the national effort against the coronavirus.
'Stay alert, control the virus, save lives'
In early May, Boris Johnson felt sufficiently confident enough to outline a roadmap out of the lockdown.
Advertisement
The prime minister set out plans for a phased reopening of parts of the economy - such as non-essential retail and hospitality - as well as plans for pupils to begin returning to school.
Alongside this, a new slogan was unveiled.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 COVID-19: PM unveils new 'stay alert' slogan
Where once Britons were told to stay at home, now they were being told to "stay alert".
But the slogan drew criticism for being vague.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said at the time: "Stay alert isn't clear, most people have been saying what does that mean? So, there's a very, you know, basic issue here about communications."
The leaders of the devolved administrations also refused to sign up to the change in advice, sticking with the "stay home" message.
They said it was too soon to be changing the messaging.
'Hands, face, space'
With a range of lockdown restrictions lifted, life in the UK began returning to something approaching normality in July.
But progress in the fight against COVID-19 remains tentative and fragile.
This is illustrated by the introduction of the first local lockdown in Leicester and restrictions being placed on separate households meeting up in parts of northern England.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:30 'We need to squeeze brake pedal'
And with the infection numbers edging upwards, the PM decides to "squeeze that brake pedal" and postpone the latest planned easing of lockdown.
In a Downing Street press conference to announce the move, Mr Johnson revealed what he described as a "pretty punchy" new slogan - "Hands, face, space".
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"Wash your hands, cover your face in the settings that we had mentioned and keep your distance from other people where you don't know them, you're coming into contact with them for the first time, and of course get a test and self-isolate if you have symptoms," the PM said.
He added: "I think everybody can more or less remember that."


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--SAGE members worried serious disorder could 'overwhelm' attempts to control coronavirus

Serious public disorder could `` overwhelm all attempts '' to control the coronavirus and `` catastrophically '' undermine the government 's recovery plans , scientists advising ministers have warned .
A paper written by a Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) sub-committee , and considered by SAGE itself on 2 July , said the current `` volatile and highly complex situation '' means Britain will face `` grave challenges '' in keeping public order during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Any disorder could be `` comparable or bigger in scale '' than the 2011 London riots , the scientists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be required .
The document was among a raft of SAGE documents published by the government on Friday , which reveal : • Two days after the lockdown was introduced , on 25 March , scientists estimated 65,000 deaths by September in a worse case scenario .
As it stands , there have been 46,119 coronavirus deaths in the UK and more than 300,000 recorded cases • The scientists warned there needed to be `` sufficient headroom '' in the rate of infections for schools to reopen safely - adding there `` may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the summer in order to be able to keep R below 1 '' while sending pupils back • SAGE called for greater communication about the main symptoms of the virus - a new persistent dry cough and/or a fever - after finding that a third of Britons do not know what they are • At one meeting , the scientists discussed modelling which showed contact tracing people with the virus and `` COVID-secure measures '' alone are `` unlikely to be sufficiently effective to allow a return to 'pre-COVID ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is no vaccine • In the event that lockdown measures are reimposed , `` behavioural responses will not necessarily mirror those observed as measures were imposed '' • A paper discussed by the scientists found that singing may be as risky as coughing when it comes to spreading the virus , although it said more research is needed • Scientists warned there needed to be a flu vaccination campaign targeted towards younger clinical risk groups to combat the risk of coronavirus co-infection this winter • The `` initial seeding '' of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come largely from Spain , France and Italy , the scientists believe On the potential for disorder , the scientists warned that tensions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic have become `` inextricably bound '' with structural inequalities and international events , citing the recent Black Lives Matter protests and counter-demonstrations .
The scientists said that among black , Asian and minority ethnic ( BAME ) communities , which have been disproportionately affected during the pandemic , there is an increasing sense of `` racial injustice , inequality and discrimination '' .
Extreme right-wing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen for a decade , they say , exploiting recent fatal stabbings in Reading , London and Glasgow .
`` The situation in the UK is precariously balanced and the smallest error in policing ( whether perceived or real , inside or outside the UK ) or policy could unleash a dynamic which will make the management of COVID-19 all but impossible , '' the paper by Professors Clifford Stott and Mark Harrison said .
`` Put simply , a serious deterioration of public order could overwhelm all attempts to control contagion , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hinder revival of the economy . ''
The paper , entitled Public Disorder and Public Health : Contemporary Threats and Risks , was considered by SAGE two days before pubs reopened in England .
Its authors warned that the return of drinkers to pubs will `` complicate all these problems and introduce entirely new ones '' .
They noted that large-scale protests , celebrations and unlicensed music events had been increasing at a time when the public health message was changing .
Having told Britons to `` stay home '' in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being advised to `` stay alert '' as restrictions were eased .
The scientists flagged the scapegoating of various communities , and anger over local lockdowns , as potential causes of disorder .
And in a prescient warning , they said localised lockdowns could cause problems if they are in place over Eid .
Separate households in parts of northern England are currently banned from meeting up indoors , following a last-minute announcement from the government on Thursday evening .
If there is disorder , officers will need to be deployed from different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would affect the ability of police to deliver `` business as usual '' .
`` If such a situation were to develop a security crisis would ensue , undermining public trust in government and catastrophically undermining its COVID-19 recovery plans , '' the document said .

Serious public disorder could "overwhelm all attempts" to control the coronavirus and "catastrophically" undermine the government's recovery plans, scientists advising ministers have warned.
A paper written by a Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) sub-committee, and considered by SAGE itself on 2 July, said the current "volatile and highly complex situation" means Britain will face "grave challenges" in keeping public order during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Any disorder could be "comparable or bigger in scale" than the 2011 London riots, the scientists warned, with military support likely to be required.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:30 'We need to squeeze brake pedal'
The document was among a raft of SAGE documents published by the government on Friday, which reveal:
Two days after the lockdown was introduced, on 25 March, scientists estimated 65,000 deaths by September in a worse case scenario. As it stands, there have been 46,119 coronavirus deaths in the UK and more than 300,000 recorded cases
deaths in the UK and more than 300,000 recorded cases The scientists warned there needed to be "sufficient headroom" in the rate of infections for schools to reopen safely - adding there "may be a need to change measures at the end of the summer in order to be able to keep R below 1" while sending pupils back
SAGE called for greater communication about the main symptoms of the virus - a new persistent dry cough and/or a fever - after finding that a third of Britons do not know what they are
At one meeting, the scientists discussed modelling which showed contact tracing people with the virus and "COVID-secure measures" alone are "unlikely to be sufficiently effective to allow a return to 'pre-COVID' normality without increasing infection rates" if there is no vaccine
In the event that lockdown measures are reimposed, "behavioural responses will not necessarily mirror those observed as measures were imposed"
A paper discussed by the scientists found that singing may be as risky as coughing when it comes to spreading the virus, although it said more research is needed
Scientists warned there needed to be a flu vaccination campaign targeted towards younger clinical risk groups to combat the risk of coronavirus co-infection this winter
The "initial seeding" of the virus in the UK appears to have come largely from Spain, France and Italy, the scientists believe
On the potential for disorder, the scientists warned that tensions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic have become "inextricably bound" with structural inequalities and international events, citing the recent Black Lives Matter protests and counter-demonstrations.
The scientists said that among black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities, which have been disproportionately affected during the pandemic, there is an increasing sense of "racial injustice, inequality and discrimination".
Extreme right-wing groups are mobilising on a scale not seen for a decade, they say, exploiting recent stabbings in Reading, London and Glasgow.
"The situation in the UK is precariously balanced and the smallest error in policing (whether perceived or real, inside or outside the UK) or policy could unleash a dynamic which will make the management of COVID-19 all but impossible," the paper by Professors Clifford Stott and Mark Harrison said.
"Put simply, a serious deterioration of public order could overwhelm all attempts to control contagion, overwhelm hospitals, the criminal justice system and hinder revival of the economy."
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The paper, entitled Public Disorder and Public Health: Contemporary Threats and Risks, was considered by SAGE two days before pubs reopened in England.
Its authors warned that the return of drinkers to pubs will "complicate all these problems and introduce entirely new ones".
They noted that large-scale protests, celebrations and unlicensed music events had been increasing at a time when the public health message was changing.
Having told Britons to "stay home" in the early weeks of lockdown, people were being advised to "stay alert" as restrictions were eased.
The scientists flagged the scapegoating of various communities, and anger over local lockdowns, as potential causes of disorder.
And in a prescient warning, they said localised lockdowns could cause problems if they are in place over Eid.
Separate households in parts of northern England are currently banned from meeting up indoors, following a last-minute announcement from the government on Thursday evening.
If there is disorder, officers will need to be deployed from different roles, the scientists warned, which would affect the ability of police to deliver "business as usual".
"If such a situation were to develop a security crisis would ensue, undermining public trust in government and catastrophically undermining its COVID-19 recovery plans," the document said.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-31--Tory MP condemned for blaming BAME and Muslim people for rise in coronavirus cases

A Conservative MP has prompted widespread condemnation after saying the `` vast majority '' of those breaking lockdown rules are from black , Asian and minority ethnic ( BAME ) communities , while providing no evidence to support his claims .
Craig Whittaker suggested BAME people - particularly Muslims - were `` not taking [ the coronavirus pandemic ] seriously enough '' .
The comments were widely criticised , with Labour describing them as `` disgraceful and overt racism '' and calling for him to apologise .
The MP for the Calder Valley , one of the areas of northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , made the comments during a call with LBC radio show host Ian Payne .
`` What I have seen in my constituency is that we have… sections of the community that are just not taking the pandemic seriously , '' he said .
Asked to confirm that he was referring to the Muslim community , Mr Whittaker responded : `` Of course .
`` If you look at the areas where we 've seen rises and cases , the vast majority - not by any stretch of the imagination all areas - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not taking this seriously enough .
`` I 've been challenging our local leaders for… three weeks , asking what we are doing to target these areas to let people know that this is still a very serious problem .
Until people take it seriously , we 're not going to get rid of this pandemic . ''
He added : `` It 's not just the Asian community , of course .
`` We have areas of high multiple occupancy - when you have multiple families living in one household .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Asian community , but that is the largest proportion .
`` Look at all the areas .
You 've got Bradford , Calderdale , Kirklees .
Bradford and Kirklees have two of the largest populations in West Yorkshire . ''
Payne then sought to clarify the MP 's comments again , asking : `` So we 're talking immigrant communities , are we ? ''
Mr Whittaker responded : `` We are .
Immigrant and Asian population . ''
Critics suggested many of those areas of the UK with the highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Others responded on social media by posting images of crowds of people , many apparently failing to adhere to social distancing guidelines , on beaches and outside pubs and bars .
Boris Johnson opted not to distance himself from the remarks when asked if he agreed with Mr Whittaker during a Downing Street briefing .
`` I think it 's up to all of us in government to make sure that the message is being heard loud and clear by everybody across the country , and to make sure that everybody is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Labour 's shadow women and equalities secretary , Marsha de Cordova , called on the prime minister to `` take action '' over the comments .
`` Disgraceful and overt racism from this Tory MP blaming Black , Asian and minority ethnic people , the very people whose lives and livelihoods have been the worst hit by COVID-19 , '' she said .
`` Boris Johnson must condemn this comment and take action . ''
Shadow home secretary and Labour MP Nick Thomas-Symonds added : `` This is incredibly poorly judged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP .
`` People from all communities have made extraordinary sacrifices in this crisis and the higher death rates in some communities have been heartbreaking .
He should apologise without delay . ''
The Muslim Council of Britain said the comments were a `` shameless scapegoating of minorities '' .
`` It is utterly unacceptable and Mr Whittaker should apologise , '' the group said in a statement .
`` Mosques and Muslim institutions have gone above and beyond to ensure social distancing rules are observed and initiated unprecedented education campaigns to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's one thing to discuss health inequalities and challenges with intergenerational households and occupational hazards - and these factors being prevalent in certain groups .
`` It 's quite another to make baseless allegations claiming certain groups are n't taking the pandemic seriously , especially when these claims are contradicted by a local Director of Public Health . ''
Mr Whittaker has been approached by Sky News for comment .
But he later told the Press Association : `` We have come from a situation where the infection rate was very low @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas , but not exclusively to those areas . ''
Asked if he was right to state BAME people had not been taking the rules seriously enough , he replied : `` What else could I say ?
`` The reality is , this pandemic has not gone away , we have seen spikes in these areas , something is happening . ''

A Conservative MP has prompted widespread condemnation after saying the "vast majority" of those breaking lockdown rules are from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities, while providing no evidence to support his claims.
Craig Whittaker suggested BAME people - particularly Muslims - were "not taking [the coronavirus pandemic] seriously enough".
The comments were widely criticised, with Labour describing them as "disgraceful and overt racism" and calling for him to apologise.
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The MP for the Calder Valley, one of the areas of northern England affected by newly imposed COVID-19 restrictions, made the comments during a call with LBC radio show host Ian Payne.
"What I have seen in my constituency is that we have… sections of the community that are just not taking the pandemic seriously," he said.
Asked to confirm that he was referring to the Muslim community, Mr Whittaker responded: "Of course.
"If you look at the areas where we've seen rises and cases, the vast majority - not by any stretch of the imagination all areas - it is the BAME communities that are not taking this seriously enough.
"I've been challenging our local leaders for… three weeks, asking what we are doing to target these areas to let people know that this is still a very serious problem. Until people take it seriously, we're not going to get rid of this pandemic."
He added: "It's not just the Asian community, of course.
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"We have areas of high multiple occupancy - when you have multiple families living in one household. That just doesn't specifically have to be in the Asian community, but that is the largest proportion.
"Look at all the areas. You've got Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees. Bradford and Kirklees have two of the largest populations in West Yorkshire."
Payne then sought to clarify the MP's comments again, asking: "So we're talking immigrant communities, are we?"
Mr Whittaker responded: "We are. Immigrant and Asian population."
Critics suggested many of those areas of the UK with the highest rates of infection had predominantly white populations.
Others responded on social media by posting images of crowds of people, many apparently failing to adhere to social distancing guidelines, on beaches and outside pubs and bars.
Image: Boris Johnson chose not to distance himself from Mr Whittaker's comments during a Downing Street briefing
Boris Johnson opted not to distance himself from the remarks when asked if he agreed with Mr Whittaker during a Downing Street briefing.
"I think it's up to all of us in government to make sure that the message is being heard loud and clear by everybody across the country, and to make sure that everybody is complying with the guidance," he said.
Labour's shadow women and equalities secretary, Marsha de Cordova, called on the prime minister to "take action" over the comments.
"Disgraceful and overt racism from this Tory MP blaming Black, Asian and minority ethnic people, the very people whose lives and livelihoods have been the worst hit by COVID-19," she said.
"Boris Johnson must condemn this comment and take action."
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
Shadow home secretary and Labour MP Nick Thomas-Symonds added: "This is incredibly poorly judged, divisive and hurtful from a Conservative MP.
"People from all communities have made extraordinary sacrifices in this crisis and the higher death rates in some communities have been heartbreaking. He should apologise without delay."
The Muslim Council of Britain said the comments were a "shameless scapegoating of minorities".
"It is utterly unacceptable and Mr Whittaker should apologise," the group said in a statement.
"Mosques and Muslim institutions have gone above and beyond to ensure social distancing rules are observed and initiated unprecedented education campaigns to ensure they are upheld by families.
"It's one thing to discuss health inequalities and challenges with intergenerational households and occupational hazards - and these factors being prevalent in certain groups.
"It's quite another to make baseless allegations claiming certain groups aren't taking the pandemic seriously, especially when these claims are contradicted by a local Director of Public Health."
Mr Whittaker has been approached by Sky News for comment.
But he later told the Press Association: "We have come from a situation where the infection rate was very low and we have seen spikes in those areas, but not exclusively to those areas."
Asked if he was right to state BAME people had not been taking the rules seriously enough, he replied: "What else could I say?
"The reality is, this pandemic has not gone away, we have seen spikes in these areas, something is happening."