skynewspolitics--2020-07-13--Final decision expected on Huawei's involvement in UK 5G network

The British government is expected to take a new and final decision on the future 5G network today , further restricting the involvement of the Chinese telecoms firm Huawei .
Boris Johnson will chair a meeting of the National Security Council later before the Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden makes a statement to parliament .
An original decision , made in January , restricted Huawei 's market share to 35 % but allowed the Chinese firm to remain a part of the non-core elements of the network .
British intelligence and cyber security officials were confident they could mitigate any risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close to the Chinese government and therefore used for espionage .
But new US sanctions have prevented Huawei from using trusted American technology in chips , resulting in a review carried out by the UK 's National Cyber Security Centre .
It has left the UK in a difficult position : in January the NCSC was adamant the UK needed multiple 5G providers for stability ( Nokia and Ericsson being the other two ) , but now it is unable to verify the safety of Huawei technology and a U-turn could prove expensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 5G .
Intense lobbying has taken place in recent days with domestic telecoms firms , such as BT , warning of blackouts if they 're forced to strip out Huawei technology too quickly .
Conservative backbench MPs however have threatened to vote against the legislation if Huawei is n't evicted quick enough .
The greatest pressure though has come from the White House , which has already banned Huawei from the US network .
President Trump , and advisers , have warned that intelligence sharing between the two countries could be at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Boris Johnson 's original decision in January was said to have left the US President `` apoplectic '' .
In opposition , China 's ambassador to the United Kingdom has issued thinly veiled threats to the UK if it sides with the US , warning last week that Britain 's reputation would be damaged .
`` When you get rid of Huawei , it sends out a very wrong message .
You punish your image as a country that can conduct independent policy .
It means you succumb to foreign pressure and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foreign policy . ''
Britain 's position towards China more generally has hardened over recent months , initially as a result of China 's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and more recently after the passing of a national security law in Hong Kong , which the British government considers illegal .
Following the latter , Downing Street responded by offering up to three million Hong Kongers a route to British citizenship through long-stay visas .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge On Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and foreign policy challenges is likely to focus on the threat from China over the coming decades .
The changing facts around Huawei 's security has given the government an opportunity to take a tougher line towards Beijing - Sino-British relations are strained .
Much is riding on the British decision because of the high regard other European countries hold the UK intelligence agencies .
Both the US and China believe the UK approach will influence what others decide to do .
So far , of the countries in the Five Eyes intelligence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banned Huawei , Canada and New Zealand are considering their positions .

The British government is expected to take a new and final decision on the future 5G network today, further restricting the involvement of the Chinese telecoms firm Huawei.
Boris Johnson will chair a meeting of the National Security Council later before the Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden makes a statement to parliament.
An original decision, made in January, restricted Huawei's market share to 35% but allowed the Chinese firm to remain a part of the non-core elements of the network.
British intelligence and cyber security officials were confident they could mitigate any risk posed by Huawei which critics argue is close to the Chinese government and therefore used for espionage.
But new US sanctions have prevented Huawei from using trusted American technology in chips, resulting in a review carried out by the UK's National Cyber Security Centre.
It has left the UK in a difficult position: in January the NCSC was adamant the UK needed multiple 5G providers for stability (Nokia and Ericsson being the other two), but now it is unable to verify the safety of Huawei technology and a U-turn could prove expensive and result in delays to the rollout of 5G.
Intense lobbying has taken place in recent days with domestic telecoms firms, such as BT, warning of blackouts if they're forced to strip out Huawei technology too quickly.
Conservative backbench MPs however have threatened to vote against the legislation if Huawei isn't evicted quick enough.
The greatest pressure though has come from the White House, which has already banned Huawei from the US network.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 'Close linkage' between Huawei and Chinese military
President Trump, and advisers, have warned that intelligence sharing between the two countries could be at threat if the UK proceeded with Huawei.
Boris Johnson's original decision in January was said to have left the US President "apoplectic".
In opposition, China's ambassador to the United Kingdom has issued thinly veiled threats to the UK if it sides with the US, warning last week that Britain's reputation would be damaged.
"When you get rid of Huawei, it sends out a very wrong message. You punish your image as a country that can conduct independent policy. It means you succumb to foreign pressure and you cannot make your own independent foreign policy."
Britain's position towards China more generally has hardened over recent months, initially as a result of China's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and more recently after the passing of a national security law in Hong Kong, which the British government considers illegal.
Following the latter, Downing Street responded by offering up to three million Hong Kongers a route to British citizenship through long-stay visas.
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An ongoing integrated review of British security and foreign policy challenges is likely to focus on the threat from China over the coming decades.
The changing facts around Huawei's security has given the government an opportunity to take a tougher line towards Beijing - Sino-British relations are strained.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:12 China enacts tough Hong Kong security law
Much is riding on the British decision because of the high regard other European countries hold the UK intelligence agencies. Both the US and China believe the UK approach will influence what others decide to do.
So far, of the countries in the Five Eyes intelligence partnership, the US and Australia have banned Huawei, Canada and New Zealand are considering their positions.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--Huawei blocked: Tech must be stripped from UK's 5G network by 2027

Boris Johnson has ordered all Huawei technology to be stripped out of the UK 's 5G network by 2027 .
In a major U-turn , the prime minister also banned the purchase of any new 5G equipment from the Chinese tech giant from the end of this year .
The government acknowledged the move would delay the roll-out of 5G in the UK by two to three years and increase costs by up to £2bn .
Acting on the advice of the National Cyber Security Centre ( NCSC ) , Mr Johnson has accepted new US sanctions on Huawei are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the impact of the firm 's technology on the UK 's national security .
Downing Street had previously allowed Huawei to have a role in the UK 's 5G infrastructure - a decision that came little more than six months ago .
Mr Johnson and senior ministers agreed to the removal of Huawei technology within the next seven years at a meeting of the National Security Council in Downing Street on Tuesday morning .
Sky News ' defence and security correspondent Alistair Bunkall said there were some `` tense exchanges '' during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Huawei 's involvement in the most senstive parts of the UK 's 5G networks - announced in January when the prime minister previously gave the go-ahead for the firm to build mobile infrastructure - remains in place .
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden confirmed Tuesday 's further action on Huawei in a statement to the House of Commons , as he announced the measures would be put into law by a forthcoming Telecoms Security Bill .
He told MPs : `` By the time of the next election we will have implemented in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ removal of Huawei equipment from our 5G networks .
`` We have not taken this decision lightly and I must be frank about the decision 's consequences for every constituency in this country ; this will delay our roll-out of 5G . ''
Mr Dowden said the measures introduced both in January and on Tuesday would cause a cumulative delay to the roll-out of 5G in the UK of two to three years and increase costs by up to £2bn .
Critics have long alleged Huawei has close links to the Chinese government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ espionage purposes - something the company has always denied .
Huawei describes itself as a private company `` fully owned by its employees '' .
In January , Mr Johnson confirmed Huawei would be able to build `` non-core '' parts of the UK 's 5G network , but with a series of conditions attached to the company 's involvement .
This included capping Huawei 's market share at 35 % and blocking it from involvement in the most sensitive areas of the network .
The prime minister 's decision angered US President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been `` apoplectic '' with Mr Johnson in a telephone call .
In May , the US placed more sanctions on Huawei to block the firm from using computer chips based on American designs in any of its equipment .
This led to fears the company could begin to use `` untrusted '' replacement technologies and prompted the NCSC 's review of January 's decision .
They are understood to have concluded there were no alternative products on the market for which the UK could have confidence in .
: : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spotify , and Spreaker The NCSC had `` significantly changed their security assessment '' of Huawei 's presence in the UK 's 5G network in the wake of the US sanctions , Mr Dowden told MPs .
He added : `` Given the uncertainty that this creates around Huawei 's supply chain , the UK can no longer be confident it will be able to guarantee the security of future Huawei 5G equipment affected by the change in US foreign direct-product rules . ''
She told MPs : `` It has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious questions over whether Huawei should be allowed to control large sections of our country 's telecoms networks , yet the government refused to face reality .
`` Their approach to our 5G capability , Huawei and our national security has been incomprehensibly negligent . ''
Responding to the government 's announcement , Huawei UK spokesperson Ed Brewster said : `` This disappointing decision is bad news for anyone in the UK with a mobile phone .
`` It threatens to move Britain into the digital slow lane , push up bills and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 'levelling up ' the government is levelling down and we urge them to reconsider .
`` We remain confident that the new US restrictions would not have affected the resilience or security of the products we supply to the UK .
`` Regrettably our future in the UK has become politicised , this is about US trade policy and not security . ''
Mr Brewster said Huawei would conduct a `` detailed review '' of what Tuesday 's decision means for the firm 's involvement in the UK .
In recent months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had spoken out about Huawei 's involvement in the UK in recent months , which piled pressure on Mr Johnson to reverse January 's decision .
Dissent on the Tory benches in the House of Commons had also grown amid wider concerns about China , including Beijing 's response to the coronavirus pandemic , its imposition of a new security law on Hong Kong , and its treatment of Uighur people .
On Tuesday morning , ahead of the National Security Council meeting , former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith told Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Chinese firms and the Chinese government .
`` Across the free world , more and more countries are now recognising that they face a particular threat now from Chinese government intentions , '' he said .
Following the government 's announcement , Sir Iain later said the UK could strip out Huawei technology from 5G infrastructure sooner than 2027 and called for the deadline to be shortened to five years .

Boris Johnson has ordered all Huawei technology to be stripped out of the UK's 5G network by 2027.
In a major U-turn, the prime minister also banned the purchase of any new 5G equipment from the Chinese tech giant from the end of this year.
The government acknowledged the move would delay the roll-out of 5G in the UK by two to three years and increase costs by up to £2bn.
Acting on the advice of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Mr Johnson has accepted new US sanctions on Huawei are a "game changer" in relation to the impact of the firm's technology on the UK's national security.
Downing Street had previously allowed Huawei to have a role in the UK's 5G infrastructure - a decision that came little more than six months ago.
Mr Johnson and senior ministers agreed to the removal of Huawei technology within the next seven years at a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) in Downing Street on Tuesday morning.
Sky News's defence and security correspondent Alistair Bunkall said there were some "tense exchanges" during the NSC meeting.
An existing ban on Huawei's involvement in the most sensitive parts of the UK's 5G networks - announced in January when the prime minister previously gave the go-ahead for the firm to build mobile infrastructure - remains in place.
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Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden confirmed Tuesday's further action on Huawei in a statement to the House of Commons, as he announced the measures would be put into law by a forthcoming Telecoms Security Bill.
He told MPs: "By the time of the next election we will have implemented in law an irreversible path for the complete removal of Huawei equipment from our 5G networks.
"We have not taken this decision lightly and I must be frank about the decision's consequences for every constituency in this country; this will delay our roll-out of 5G."
Image: Boris Johnson made the decision on the advice of the National Cyber Security Centre
Mr Dowden said the measures introduced both in January and on Tuesday would cause a cumulative delay to the roll-out of 5G in the UK of two to three years and increase costs by up to £2bn.
Critics have long alleged Huawei has close links to the Chinese government and its equipment could be used for espionage purposes - something the company has always denied.
Huawei describes itself as a private company "fully owned by its employees".
In January, Mr Johnson confirmed Huawei would be able to build "non-core" parts of the UK's 5G network, but with a series of conditions attached to the company's involvement.
This included capping Huawei's market share at 35% and blocking it from involvement in the most sensitive areas of the network.
Image: Donald Trump was said to have been angry about the UK's original plan to allow Huawei into its 5G network
The prime minister's decision angered US President Donald Trump - who was reported to have been "apoplectic" with Mr Johnson in a telephone call.
In May, the US placed more sanctions on Huawei to block the firm from using computer chips based on American designs in any of its equipment.
This led to fears the company could begin to use "untrusted" replacement technologies - and prompted the NCSC's review of January's decision.
They are understood to have concluded there were no alternative products on the market for which the UK could have confidence in.
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The NCSC had "significantly changed their security assessment" of Huawei's presence in the UK's 5G network in the wake of the US sanctions, Mr Dowden told MPs.
He added: "Given the uncertainty that this creates around Huawei's supply chain, the UK can no longer be confident it will be able to guarantee the security of future Huawei 5G equipment affected by the change in US foreign direct-product rules."
Chi Onwurah, Labour's shadow digital, science and technology minister, branded the government's approach "incomprehensibly negligent".
She told MPs: "It has been clear for some time that there are serious questions over whether Huawei should be allowed to control large sections of our country's telecoms networks, yet the government refused to face reality.
"Their approach to our 5G capability, Huawei and our national security has been incomprehensibly negligent."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:19 Explained: Why 5G and Huawei matter
Responding to the government's announcement, Huawei UK spokesperson Ed Brewster said: "This disappointing decision is bad news for anyone in the UK with a mobile phone.
"It threatens to move Britain into the digital slow lane, push up bills and deepen the digital divide.
"Instead of 'levelling up' the government is levelling down and we urge them to reconsider.
"We remain confident that the new US restrictions would not have affected the resilience or security of the products we supply to the UK.
"Regrettably our future in the UK has become politicised, this is about US trade policy and not security."
Mr Brewster said Huawei would conduct a "detailed review" of what Tuesday's decision means for the firm's involvement in the UK.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 China relationship 'extremely troubling'
Michael Pompeo, the US secretary of state, welcomed the news.
"With this decision, the UK joins a growing list of countries from around the world that are standing up for their national security by prohibiting the use of untrusted, high-risk vendors," he said in a statement.
"We will continue to work with our British friends on fostering a secure and vibrant 5G ecosystem, which is critical to transatlantic security and prosperity...
"Countries need to be able to trust that 5G equipment and software will not threaten national security, economic security, privacy, intellectual property, or human rights."
In recent months, an increasing number of Conservative MPs had spoken out about Huawei's involvement in the UK, which piled pressure on Mr Johnson to reverse January's decision.
Dissent on the Tory benches in the House of Commons had also grown amid wider concerns about China, including Beijing's response to the coronavirus pandemic, its imposition of a new security law on Hong Kong, and its treatment of Uighur Muslims in detention camps.
In March, 38 Tory MPs rebelled against the government in a Commons vote over Huawei's 5G role.
On Tuesday morning, ahead of the NSC meeting, former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith told Sky News that "you can't separate" Chinese firms and the Chinese government.
"Across the free world, more and more countries are now recognising that they face a particular threat now from Chinese government intentions," he said.
Following the government's announcement, Sir Iain later said the UK could strip out Huawei technology from 5G infrastructure sooner than 2027 and called for the deadline to be shortened to five years.
Image: Iain Duncan Smith has warned the UK needs to urgently look at its relationship with China
Tom Tugendhat, who chairs the Commons' Foreign Affairs committee and the China Research Group of Tory MPs, hailed "a major victory for parliament".
"Huawei's position in the UK's phone networks is now in reverse and our future prosperity will not be tied to a company linked to [the] Chinese state," he said.
"There's no point in taking back control from Brussels only to hand it over to Beijing."
However, Mr Tugendhat called for "more details" and "more speed" on the government's action.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--Cyber attacks, compensation, levies: Possible repercussions of the Huawei ban

As the government announces that Chinese tech giant Huawei 's equipment will be removed from the UK 's 5G network by 2027 , Sky 's experts assess the implications of the decision .
UK should prepare for serious retaliation , not just rhetoric By Tom Cheshire , Asia correspondent Huawei 's first major customer was China 's People 's Liberation Army .
Its latest will not now be the UK - and that will provoke fury .
Beijing 's rhetoric is so reliably and angrily florid on every matter that it can be hard to tell what the Chinese Communist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apoplectically to the UK 's offer of passports to people in Hong Kong , calling it `` gross interference '' .
But the UK 's offer had already been anticipated by the Chinese side , according to diplomatic sources .
The public fury was merely routine .
Huawei is different .
It is the crown jewel of China 's technological ascent .
Its executives are princes in the party .
Had the British government allowed Huawei to stay in the UK 's 5G networks , it would have been a kitemark of approval @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the world which have their own security concerns .
And banning Huawei would mean the UK is treating China as a `` hostile country '' , the Chinese ambassador to the UK has said .
Critics will argue this rather proves their point - that Huawei and the Chinese state are too close for comfort .
Canada crossed Huawei and saw their citizens jailed in China .
The UK should prepare for serious retaliation this time , not just rhetoric .
US move gave UK convenient excuse for U-turn By Alistair Bunkall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ striking how the tone has changed in a relatively short time .
In January , British intelligence was relaxed with the decision to allow Huawei access to parts of the 5G network .
Six months later Huawei is persona non grata .
The US has outwardly altered the landscape by preventing Huawei from using American technology in its chips .
That move has forced Huawei to use untested , untrusted Chinese alternatives and precipitated an intelligence review of the British decision ; but it 's also provided Downing Street with a convenient excuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not sure the US/UK intelligence-sharing relationship was ever in great doubt , despite White House threats .
But Britain 's change of heart will ensure the Five Eyes alliance is at one on Huawei , although Canada is yet to formalise its decision .
Frustratingly for Huawei , such is the respect with which British intelligence agencies are regarded , this decision is also likely to influence other countries still considering their 5G policy .
'Golden era ' of relations with China is over By Sam Coates , deputy political editor Today marks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as Britain brings to an end the `` golden era '' of relations with China .
The previous initiative was inaugurated under David Cameron and continued , somewhat less fulsomely , under Theresa May , and set the UK up for a more profitable trading and investment relationship with China after Brexit .
It is now over - with today 's instruction to rip out Chinese tech company Huawei technology from the 5G network by 2027 .
But to listen to ministers , this change - greeted with the promise of consequences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the consequence of decisions out of their hands .
Today 's decision is not a consequence , for instance , of the new security law governing Hong Kong ; China 's behaviour over the coronavirus outbreak ; the treatment of the Uighur Muslim minority in Western China ; or years of trade infractions .
The move , which has the potential to change Britain 's place in the world , according to ministers is simply a consequence of US sanctions on all American chips being used by Huawei products announced in May , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The British government wanted to do something different - keeping 35 % of Huawei in its network just months ago - but it appears Global Britain in this instance means having to choose between superpowers rather than strike out on its own .
Government could face demands for compensation in wake of decision By Rowland Manthorpe , technology correspondent This news will come as a big blow to the UK 's four telecommunications networks : O2 , Three , EE and Vodafone .
For the last year , they 've been quietly rolling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Huawei kit , which was approved by the government for use in the outer part of the network .
According to tech website Techradar , 5G is available in a total of 249 UK locations , from Aberdeen to York .
Taking the Huawei elements out of that will cost `` hundreds of millions '' , one telecoms source told me .
The telecoms companies have been given until 2027 to act and it seems as if they 've been spared the huge additional cost of removing Huawei from the 4G network @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following the rules , this is going to cause real frustration - one reason why respected telecoms experts were suggesting this morning that operators may ask for compensation from the government .
Response from China could include cyber attacks and levies on British imports By Deborah Haynes , foreign affairs editor China will not react well to Britain 's rejection of Huawei , but the US will celebrate .
The Chinese ambassador to London has already warned there will be consequences , hinting at a reduction in Chinese investment .
Experts think a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against UK targets , new levies on British imports , or greater restrictions on British companies operating inside China .
Wanting to limit the damage , the Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) will seek to frame the Huawei move as an isolated issue , forced upon the UK by US sanctions against the Chinese firm .
But there will be no such distinction drawn in Beijing .
It will view the snub as a sign of the UK kowtowing to the will of US President Donald Trump , who has pressured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It will also be seen through the lens of a wider sense of anti-China rhetoric from Britain and other western allies like Australia , New Zealand and Canada .
This includes criticism of China over its initial handling of the coronavirus pandemic , with the Chinese authorities accused of secrecy in the early days of the crisis - a charge they refute .
There are also growing hostilities over Hong Kong , triggered by a new security law passed by Beijing in the face of condemnation from the West .
By contrast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back on Huawei will be welcomed by its closest ally - the United States - as well as other parts of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance of Australia , Canada and New Zealand .
They have largely struck a highly cautious note on the Chinese company , with the US and Australia in particular highly critical of Britain 's dealings with the firm .
The UK could also make it harder for Huawei to expand further into other European networks , with a 5G platform in Britain seen as an important way point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so much at stake this is a highly turbulent time , making the question of Huawei particularly combustible .

After the government announced that Chinese tech giant Huawei's equipment will be removed from the UK's 5G network by 2027, Sky's experts assess the implications of the decision.
UK should prepare for serious retaliation, not just rhetoric
By Tom Cheshire, Asia correspondent
Huawei's first major customer was China's People's Liberation Army. Its latest will not now be the UK - and that will provoke fury.
Beijing's rhetoric is so reliably and angrily florid on every matter that it can be hard to tell what the Chinese Communist Party really cares about.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 Govt unveils £2bn 5G U-turn
It responded apoplectically to the UK's offer of passports to people in Hong Kong, calling it "gross interference".
But the UK's offer had already been anticipated by the Chinese side, according to diplomatic sources.
The public fury was merely routine.
Huawei is different. It is the crown jewel of China's technological ascent. Its executives are princes in the party.
Had the British government allowed Huawei to stay in the UK's 5G networks, it would have been a kitemark of approval the company could tout to other countries around the world which have their own security concerns.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 'Close linkage' between Huawei and Chinese military
And banning Huawei would mean the UK is treating China as a "hostile country", the Chinese ambassador to the UK has said.
Critics will argue this rather proves their point - that Huawei and the Chinese state are too close for comfort.
Canada crossed Huawei and saw their citizens jailed in China.
The UK should prepare for serious retaliation this time, not just rhetoric.
US move gave UK convenient excuse for U-turn
By Alistair Bunkall, defence and security correspondent
It's striking how the tone has changed in a relatively short time.
In January, British intelligence was relaxed with the decision to allow Huawei access to parts of the 5G network. Six months later Huawei is persona non grata.
The US has outwardly altered the landscape by preventing Huawei from using American technology in its chips.
That move has forced Huawei to use untested, untrusted Chinese alternatives and precipitated an intelligence review of the British decision; but it's also provided Downing Street with a convenient excuse to make this U-turn.
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I'm not sure the US/UK intelligence-sharing relationship was ever in great doubt, despite White House threats.
But Britain's change of heart will ensure the Five Eyes alliance is at one on Huawei, although Canada is yet to formalise its decision.
Frustratingly for Huawei, such is the respect with which British intelligence agencies are regarded, this decision is also likely to influence other countries still considering their 5G policy.
'Golden era' of relations with China is over
By Sam Coates, deputy political editor
Today marks a major pivot in British foreign policy, as Britain brings to an end the "golden era" of relations with China.
The previous initiative was inaugurated under David Cameron and continued, somewhat less fulsomely, under Theresa May, and set the UK up for a more profitable trading and investment relationship with China after Brexit.
It is now over - with today's instruction to rip out Chinese tech company Huawei technology from the 5G network by 2027.
But to listen to ministers, this change - greeted with the promise of consequences from Beijing - is all presented as the consequence of decisions out of their hands.
Image: Former PM David Cameron and Chinese President Xi Jinping enjoyed fish and chips together in 2015
Today's decision is not a consequence, for instance, of the new security law governing Hong Kong; China's behaviour over the coronavirus outbreak; the treatment of the Uighur Muslim minority in Western China; or years of trade infractions.
The move, which has the potential to change Britain's place in the world, according to ministers is simply a consequence of US sanctions on all American chips being used by Huawei products announced in May, sanctions the UK government presumably regrets.
The British government wanted to do something different - keeping 35% of Huawei in its network just months ago - but it appears Global Britain in this instance means having to choose between superpowers rather than strike out on its own.
Government could face demands for compensation in wake of decision
By Rowland Manthorpe, technology correspondent
This news will come as a big blow to the UK's four telecommunications networks: O2, Three, EE and Vodafone.
For the last year, they've been quietly rolling out 5G across the country - mostly with Huawei kit, which was approved by the government for use in the outer part of the network.
According to tech website Techradar, 5G is available in a total of 249 UK locations, from Aberdeen to York.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 BT boss warns of Huawei snub 'implications'
Taking the Huawei elements out of that will cost "hundreds of millions", one telecoms source told me.
The telecoms companies have been given until 2027 to act and it seems as if they've been spared the huge additional cost of removing Huawei from the 4G network.
But given that they were only following the rules, this is going to cause real frustration - one reason why respected telecoms experts were suggesting this morning that operators may ask for compensation from the government.
Response from China could include cyber attacks and levies on British imports
By Deborah Haynes, foreign affairs editor
China will not react well to Britain's rejection of Huawei, but the US will celebrate.
The Chinese ambassador to London has already warned there will be consequences, hinting at a reduction in Chinese investment.
Experts think a response could also include increased cyber attacks against UK targets, new levies on British imports, or greater restrictions on British companies operating inside China.
Wanting to limit the damage, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) will seek to frame the Huawei move as an isolated issue, forced upon the UK by US sanctions against the Chinese firm.
But there will be no such distinction drawn in Beijing.
It will view the snub as a sign of the UK kowtowing to the will of US President Donald Trump, who has pressured successive British governments to ditch the company.
It will also be seen through the lens of a wider sense of anti-China rhetoric from Britain and other western allies like Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
This includes criticism of China over its initial handling of the coronavirus pandemic, with the Chinese authorities accused of secrecy in the early days of the crisis - a charge they refute.
There are also growing hostilities over Hong Kong, triggered by a new security law passed by Beijing in the face of condemnation from the West.
By contrast, Britain's decision to turn its back on Huawei will be welcomed by its closest ally - the United States - as well as other parts of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance of Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
They have largely struck a highly cautious note on the Chinese company, with the US and Australia in particular highly critical of Britain's dealings with the firm.
The UK could also make it harder for Huawei to expand further into other European networks, with a 5G platform in Britain seen as an important way point to further growth across Europe.
With so much at stake this is a highly turbulent time, making the question of Huawei particularly combustible.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-13--Fines for failing to wear a face covering in shops in England

Face coverings must be worn in shops and supermarkets in England from Friday 24 July , Boris Johnson has announced .
Enforcement will be carried out by police - not retail staff - and anyone failing to wear a face covering while shopping will be subject to a fine of up to £100 , or £50 if paid within 14 days .
The rules to tackle coronavirus will be the same as those currently applicable on public transport in England , which means children under 11 and people with certain disabilities will be exempt .
The wearing of face coverings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around 120 countries - including Germany , Spain , Italy and Greece - now require coverings to be worn in public places .
Announcing the move , a Number 10 spokesperson said : `` There is growing evidence that wearing a face covering in an enclosed space helps protect individuals and those around them from coronavirus .
`` The prime minister has been clear that people should be wearing face coverings in shops and we will make this mandatory from July 24 . ''
The decision , due to be outlined by Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday afternoon , follows four days of conflicting statements from ministers and demands from opposition MPs for clarity .
Responding to the announcement confirming mandatory face coverings , shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said : `` The government has been slow and muddled again over face coverings .
`` Given the government 's own guidance issued on 11 May advised in favour of face masks , many will ask why yet again have ministers been slow in making a decision in this pandemic , and why it 'll take another 11 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ force . ''
London mayor Sadiq Khan went further and called the government 's `` confused communications '' on the subject a `` disgrace '' .
`` We ca n't afford to wait another day and the government should bring this policy in immediately - further delay risks lives , '' he urged .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker And the British Chambers of Commerce 's co-executive director Claire Walker said : `` Businesses need clarity on the approach to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and supported by public health evidence .
`` Shops and other indoor businesses need to know what the new rules are as soon as possible .
`` Updated guidance , including on enforcement , should be issued swiftly so firms can maintain their COVID-secure status and continue their operations successfully . ''
In his most recent statement on face coverings , 12 hours before the official confirmation by Number 10 , Mr Johnson said : `` I think that as throughout this crisis people have shown amazing sensitivity towards other people and understanding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down by doing things cooperatively .
`` I think wearing masks is one of them .
In a confined space what you 're doing is you 're protecting other people from the transmission that you might be giving to other people .
`` And they in turn they 're are protecting you .
It 's a mutual thing .
People do see the value of it . ''
But just one day earlier , Michael Gove suggested masks in shops should not be mandatory , saying he believed shoppers should be encouraged to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` people 's good sense '' .
And Home Secretary Priti Patel was pictured meeting her French counterpart indoors without wearing a mask over the weekend - despite being seen wearing one speaking to him outdoors on the same day - sparking claims ministers were sending mixed messages .
Since 11 May , government guidance has advised the public to wear face coverings in enclosed public spaces , where they may come into contact with people they would not usually meet .
The use of face coverings became mandatory on public transport in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock will confirm that the government guidance will be updated to make the wearing of face coverings in shops and supermarkets compulsory , he will say that guidance for other settings will be kept under review .
Regulations will be made under the Public Health ( Control of Disease ) Act 1984 .
While shop employees should encourage compliance , the government said retailers and businesses will not be expected to enforce the policy .

Face coverings must be worn in shops and supermarkets in England from Friday 24 July, Boris Johnson has announced.
Enforcement will be carried out by police - not retail staff - and anyone failing to wear a face covering while shopping will be subject to a fine of up to £100, or £50 if paid within 14 days.
The rules to tackle coronavirus will be the same as those currently applicable on public transport in England, which means children under 11 and people with certain disabilities will be exempt.
Image: People who flout the rule face a £100 fine
The wearing of face coverings became compulsory in Scotland last week and around 120 countries - including Germany, Spain, Italy and Greece - now require coverings to be worn in public places.
Announcing the move, a Number 10 spokesperson said: "There is growing evidence that wearing a face covering in an enclosed space helps protect individuals and those around them from coronavirus.
"The prime minister has been clear that people should be wearing face coverings in shops and we will make this mandatory from July 24."
The decision, due to be outlined by Health Secretary Matt Hancock in a Commons statement on Tuesday afternoon, follows four days of conflicting statements from ministers and demands from opposition MPs for clarity.
Responding to the announcement confirming mandatory face coverings, shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said: "The government has been slow and muddled again over face coverings.
"Given the government's own guidance issued on 11 May advised in favour of face masks, many will ask why yet again have ministers been slow in making a decision in this pandemic, and why it'll take another 11 days before these new guidelines to come into force."
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London mayor Sadiq Khan went further and called the government's "confused communications" on the subject a "disgrace".
"We can't afford to wait another day and the government should bring this policy in immediately - further delay risks lives," he urged.
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And the British Chambers of Commerce's co-executive director Claire Walker said: "Businesses need clarity on the approach to the wearing of face coverings that is consistent and supported by public health evidence.
"Shops and other indoor businesses need to know what the new rules are as soon as possible.
"Updated guidance, including on enforcement, should be issued swiftly so firms can maintain their COVID-secure status and continue their operations successfully."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 10:19 PM: 'Important to wear face masks in shops'
In his most recent statement on face coverings, 12 hours before the official confirmation by Number 10, Mr Johnson said: "I think that as throughout this crisis people have shown amazing sensitivity towards other people and understanding of the needs to get the virus down by doing things cooperatively.
"I think wearing masks is one of them. In a confined space what you're doing is you're protecting other people from the transmission that you might be giving to other people.
"And they in turn they're are protecting you. It's a mutual thing. People do see the value of it."
But just one day earlier, Michael Gove suggested masks in shops should not be mandatory, saying he believed shoppers should be encouraged to wear them, but he believed in "people's good sense".
And Home Secretary Priti Patel was pictured meeting her French counterpart indoors without wearing a mask over the weekend - despite being seen wearing one speaking to him outdoors on the same day - sparking claims ministers were sending mixed messages.
Image: Priti Patel switched between wearing and not wearing a mask
Since 11 May, government guidance has advised the public to wear face coverings in enclosed public spaces, where they may come into contact with people they would not usually meet.
The use of face coverings became mandatory on public transport in England from 15 June.
Although Mr Hancock will confirm that the government guidance will be updated to make the wearing of face coverings in shops and supermarkets compulsory, he will say that guidance for other settings will be kept under review.
Regulations will be made under the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984. While shop employees should encourage compliance, the government said retailers and businesses will not be expected to enforce the policy.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--Court ruling hailed as 'nail in the coffin' for housing benefit discrimination

A `` momentous '' county court ruling should be the `` nail in the coffin '' for discriminating against prospective tenants who receive housing benefit , a charity has said .
Shelter has hailed the outcome of a case at York County Court , which ruled that a letting agency 's `` No DSS '' policy discriminated against a single mother .
DSS refers to the now-defunct Department of Social Security .
In recent years , `` No DSS '' has become shorthand for banning prospective tenants on housing benefit .
The woman in this case contacted the letting agency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city , but was told her application would not be considered because she was in receipt of housing benefit .
District Judge Victoria Mark ruled that the 44-year-old mother-of-two had been indirectly discriminated against due to her sex and disability , in contravention of the Equality Act 2010 Both parties in the judgment have not been named .
Shelter described the ruling as a `` huge breakthrough '' for its End DSS Discrimination campaign and added that it served as a `` clear warning '' to landlords .
Chief executive Polly Neate said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nail in the coffin for 'No DSS ' discrimination .
`` It will help give security and stability to people who unfairly struggle to find a place to live just because they receive housing benefit . ''
Rose Arnall , the Shelter solicitor who led the case , added : `` This sends a huge signal to letting agents and landlords that they must end these practices and do so immediately . ''
According to the charity , 63 % of private landlords say they do not let , or prefer not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ housing benefit .
The claimant in this case has been given the pseudonym of Jane by Shelter .
Jane , who works part-time , was searching for a new home in October 2018 after receiving a Section 21 `` no-fault '' eviction from her landlord , the charity said .
After being rejected by the letting agency , she was made homeless and had to move into a hostel with her children .
Jane said : `` I was shocked and found it very unfair that they would n't even give me a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excellent references , had always paid rent on time and had a professional guarantor .
Jane - who has ADHD , anxiety and depression - added that she was also able to pay six months ' rent in advance thanks to a loan from her parents .
The judge ordered the letting agency to pay her £3,500 .
`` This overall picture is also borne out by the simple calculation which shows that , whilst women make up 50.6 % of the population , they constitute 61 % of housing benefit claimants , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ruling .
`` It is therefore evident that women are substantially more likely than men to claim housing benefit and thus more likely to be adversely affected by a 'No DSS ' policy . ''
District Judge Mark added : `` Again , it is clear that a 'No DSS ' policy puts or would put persons who are disabled at a particular disadvantage . ''
Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The case was supported by the Equality and Human Rights Commission ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` 'No DSS ' policies by landlords and estate agents clearly discriminate against many women and disabled people , as we saw in this case .
We should never see it in a letting advert again . ''
Luke Hall , minister for rough sleeping and housing , said : `` Everyone should have the same opportunity when looking for a home , and discriminating against someone simply because they receive benefits has no place in a modern housing market .
`` That 's why we have been working with landlords @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tenants are treated on an individual basis and that benefits are not seen as a barrier to giving someone a place to live . ''
The Ministry of Housing , Communities and Local Government highlighted how major lettings portals Zoopla and Rightmove agreed to stop the use of `` No DSS '' adverts on their websites last year .

A "momentous" county court ruling should be the "nail in the coffin" for discriminating against prospective tenants who receive housing benefit, a charity has said.
Shelter has hailed the outcome of a case at York County Court, which ruled that a letting agency's "No DSS" policy discriminated against a single mother.
DSS refers to the now-defunct Department of Social Security. In recent years, "No DSS" has become shorthand for banning prospective tenants on housing benefit.
Image: According to Shelter, almost two-thirds of private landlords say they do not let, or prefer not to let, to people on housing benefit
The woman in this case contacted the letting agency about renting a two-bedroom home in the city, but was told her application would not be considered because she was in receipt of housing benefit.
District Judge Victoria Mark ruled that the 44-year-old mother-of-two had been indirectly discriminated against due to her sex and disability, in contravention of the Equality Act 2010
Both parties in the judgment have not been named.
Shelter described the ruling as a "huge breakthrough" for its End DSS Discrimination campaign and added that it served as a "clear warning" to landlords.
Chief executive Polly Neate said: "This momentous ruling should be the nail in the coffin for 'No DSS' discrimination.
"It will help give security and stability to people who unfairly struggle to find a place to live just because they receive housing benefit."
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Rose Arnall, the Shelter solicitor who led the case, added: "This sends a huge signal to letting agents and landlords that they must end these practices and do so immediately."
According to the charity, 63% of private landlords say they do not let, or prefer not to let, to people who get housing benefit.
The claimant in this case has been given the pseudonym of Jane by Shelter.
Jane, who works part-time, was searching for a new home in October 2018 after receiving a Section 21 "no-fault" eviction from her landlord, the charity said.
After being rejected by the letting agency, she was made homeless and had to move into a hostel with her children.
Jane said: "I was shocked and found it very unfair that they wouldn't even give me a chance."
She said she had excellent references, had always paid rent on time and had a professional guarantor.
Jane - who has ADHD, anxiety and depression - added that she was also able to pay six months' rent in advance thanks to a loan from her parents.
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
Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The judge ordered the letting agency to pay her £3,500.
"This overall picture is also borne out by the simple calculation which shows that, whilst women make up 50.6% of the population, they constitute 61% of housing benefit claimants," the district judge said in her ruling.
"It is therefore evident that women are substantially more likely than men to claim housing benefit and thus more likely to be adversely affected by a 'No DSS' policy."
District Judge Mark added: "Again, it is clear that a 'No DSS' policy puts or would put persons who are disabled at a particular disadvantage."
The case was supported by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
Chief executive Rebecca Hilsenrath said: "'No DSS' policies by landlords and estate agents clearly discriminate against many women and disabled people, as we saw in this case. We should never see it in a letting advert again."
Luke Hall, minister for rough sleeping and housing, said: "Everyone should have the same opportunity when looking for a home, and discriminating against someone simply because they receive benefits has no place in a modern housing market.
"That's why we have been working with landlords and letting agents to help ensure prospective tenants are treated on an individual basis and that benefits are not seen as a barrier to giving someone a place to live."
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government highlighted how major lettings portals Zoopla and Rightmove agreed to stop the use of "No DSS" adverts on their websites last year.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--Towns teetering on edge of local lockdown impose new emergency measures

Two Lancashire towns teetering on the edge of local lockdown have announced new emergency measures to tackle coronavirus outbreaks .
Blackburn with Darwen Council told residents only two people can now visit another person at home and face coverings should be worn in public with immediate effect .
It has also urged anyone to get tested for COVID-19 - even if they have no symptoms .
Elsewhere in England , face coverings are still optional in some public places like shops - although they will become mandatory on Friday 24 July - and groups of six can meet outside at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Blackburn had 47 cases of the virus per 100,000 people in the week up to 11 July , an increase from 31.6 cases per 100,000 the previous week .
It is third on the list of highest weekly rates , behind Leicester , which has a rate of 118.2 cases per 100,000 and is subject to a local lockdown , and nearby Pendle , with a rate of 76.6 .
Dominic Harrison , the Lancashire council 's director of public health , called for people only to bump elbows with anyone outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shaking hands or hugging .
And he said if infection rates continue to rise , further restrictions may be reimposed .
`` These steps will help and we are appealing to everyone in Blackburn with Darwen to follow them to protect themselves and their loved ones , '' Mr Harrison told residents on Tuesday .
`` If we do n't , a local lockdown , like in Leicester , becomes a very real possibility .
`` The council is working with the NHS and the wider community on this , it 's up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stick to the advice that 's been given .
`` We can only avoid further lockdown measures if we work together . ''
The public spaces that people are now being told to wear masks in include workplaces , libraries , museums , health centres and hair and beauty salons .
Council leader Mohammed Khan told Sky News he has `` no intention '' yet of fully locking down the two towns .
But if `` worst comes to worst '' , he explained , `` we are looking at the smart way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postcode data to show which have the `` most problem '' .
`` At this stage , we are not anywhere near to Leicester , '' he said .
`` We are putting all these measures in place to make sure we are not going to get to that place . ''
`` We are confident we will do everything possible in the next 10-15 days to control the whole thing . ''
His message to residents was : `` You 've done a great job in the past , but please : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you 're not going to take care of you and your loved one . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said at the start of July as he launched the government 's `` enjoy summer safely '' campaign that `` we think we 're in good shape but my message is let 's not blow it '' .
However , a group of scientists and academics have warned a second wave of coronavirus could hit the UK even worse than the first this coming winter - killing 120,000 people .
Their report , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adviser Sir Patrick Vallance , said that was the `` reasonable worst-case scenario '' .

Two Lancashire towns teetering on the edge of local lockdown have announced new emergency measures to tackle coronavirus outbreaks.
Blackburn with Darwen Council told residents only two people can now visit another person at home and face coverings should be worn in public with immediate effect.
It has also urged anyone to get tested for COVID-19 - even if they have no symptoms.
Image: Masks will be made compulsory earlier than the rest of England in the area
Elsewhere in England, face coverings are still optional in some public places like shops - although they will become mandatory on Friday 24 July - and groups of six can meet outside at a friend's home in their garden.
Blackburn had 47 cases of the virus per 100,000 people in the week up to 11 July, an increase from 31.6 cases per 100,000 the previous week.
It is third on the list of highest weekly rates, behind Leicester, which has a rate of 118.2 cases per 100,000 and is subject to a local lockdown, and nearby Pendle, with a rate of 76.6.
Image: Leicester is the biggest area so far to go into a local lockdown
Dominic Harrison, the Lancashire council's director of public health, called for people only to bump elbows with anyone outside of their immediate family, instead of shaking hands or hugging.
And he said if infection rates continue to rise, further restrictions may be reimposed.
"These steps will help and we are appealing to everyone in Blackburn with Darwen to follow them to protect themselves and their loved ones," Mr Harrison told residents on Tuesday.
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"If we don't, a local lockdown, like in Leicester, becomes a very real possibility.
"The council is working with the NHS and the wider community on this, it's up to us all to help each other stick to the advice that's been given.
"We can only avoid further lockdown measures if we work together."
Image: Residents are being urged to elbow bump instead of shake hands - as Boris Johnson was pictured doing on Monday
The public spaces that people are now being told to wear masks in include workplaces, libraries, museums, health centres and hair and beauty salons.
Council leader Mohammed Khan told Sky News he has "no intention" yet of fully locking down the two towns.
But if "worst comes to worst", he explained, "we are looking at the smart way of locking down areas", using postcode data to show which have the "most problem".
"At this stage, we are not anywhere near to Leicester," he said. "We are putting all these measures in place to make sure we are not going to get to that place."
"We are confident we will do everything possible in the next 10-15 days to control the whole thing."
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
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His message to residents was: "You've done a great job in the past, but please: This is going to be something serious if you're not going to take care of you and your loved one."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said at the start of July as he launched the government's "enjoy summer safely" campaign that "we think we're in good shape but my message is let's not blow it".
However, a group of scientists and academics have warned a second wave of coronavirus could hit the UK even worse than the first this coming winter - killing 120,000 people.
Their report, commissioned by the government's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance, said that was the "reasonable worst-case scenario".


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--Leicester lockdown to be reviewed but cases 'still well above' rest of UK

The number of coronavirus cases in Leicester is `` still well above '' the rest of the UK ahead of this week 's review of the city 's local lockdown , Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said .
The Midlands city has been subject to the UK 's first full local lockdown as part of the government 's `` whack-a-mole '' strategy to deal with local flare-ups in COVID-19 infections .
Shops and schools were forced to close again , while the reopening of pubs and restaurants did not take place in Leicester in line with the rest of England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock told the House of Commons on Tuesday that the local restrictions in the city would be reviewed later this week .
`` There is a process for whether changes can be made in Leicester , '' he told MPs .
`` The process is that we will look at 14 days of data - it is today 14 days since the measures were introduced .
`` We 'll look at that on Thursday of this week and make a public announcement , as soon as is reasonably possible , about whether and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the situation in Leicester .
`` Thankfully the numbers have been coming down in Leicester and we have put in that extra testing .
`` But the number of positive cases in Leicester is still well above the rest of the country .
`` I wo n't pre-judge the decision that we 'll take on Thursday and we 'll take into account all of the data .
`` We wo n't set out specific thresholds , instead we 'll look at all of the data - both the level and the rate of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in consultation with the local authorities . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hancock made the comments as he set out the government 's plan to make the wearing of face coverings compulsory in shops and supermarkets in England from 24 July .
The health secretary described to MPs how sales assistants , cashiers and security guards had `` suffered disproportionately '' during the coronavirus crisis .
`` The death rate of sales and retail assistants is 75 % higher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ women than in the general population , '' he said .
Mr Hancock also provided an update on the government 's test and trace scheme , which has now seen 144,000 people asked to isolate themselves after being informed they were at risk of infection .
On Monday , Professor Jonathan Van-Tam - one of England 's deputy chief medical officers - said that data published on Saturday showed Leicester is `` really quite an outlier '' compared with anywhere else in the country .
`` The situation has improved but it needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told the BBC .
He stressed any decision to lift the city 's lockdown `` ca n't be rushed '' .

The number of coronavirus cases in Leicester is "still well above" the rest of the UK ahead of this week's review of the city's local lockdown, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said.
The Midlands city has been subject to the UK's first full local lockdown as part of the government's "whack-a-mole" strategy to deal with local flare-ups in COVID-19 infections.
Shops and schools were forced to close again, while the reopening of pubs and restaurants did not take place in Leicester in line with the rest of England earlier this month.
Image: The number of COVID-19 cases in Leicesters is 'still well above' the rest of the country
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons on Tuesday that the local restrictions in the city would be reviewed later this week.
"There is a process for whether changes can be made in Leicester," he told MPs.
"The process is that we will look at 14 days of data - it is today 14 days since the measures were introduced.
"We'll look at that on Thursday of this week and make a public announcement, as soon as is reasonably possible, about whether and if any changes can be made to the situation in Leicester.
"Thankfully the numbers have been coming down in Leicester and we have put in that extra testing.
"But the number of positive cases in Leicester is still well above the rest of the country.
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"I won't pre-judge the decision that we'll take on Thursday and we'll take into account all of the data.
"We won't set out specific thresholds, instead we'll look at all of the data - both the level and the rate of change - and make the appropriate decision in consultation with the local authorities."
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
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Hancock made the comments as he set out the government's plan to make the wearing of face coverings compulsory in shops and supermarkets in England from 24 July.
The health secretary described to MPs how sales assistants, cashiers and security guards had "suffered disproportionately" during the coronavirus crisis.
"The death rate of sales and retail assistants is 75% higher amongst men and 60% higher amongst women than in the general population," he said.
Mr Hancock also provided an update on the government's test and trace scheme, which has now seen 144,000 people asked to isolate themselves after being informed they were at risk of infection.
Image: Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs cases in Leicester remained higher than the rest of the UK
On Monday, Professor Jonathan Van-Tam - one of England's deputy chief medical officers - said that data published on Saturday showed Leicester is "really quite an outlier" compared with anywhere else in the country.
"The situation has improved but it needs to go further," Prof Van-Tam told the BBC.
He stressed any decision to lift the city's lockdown "can't be rushed".


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--London 'not ready' for local coronavirus lockdown, warns mayor

London is `` not ready '' for a local coronavirus lockdown , the capital 's mayor has warned .
Sadiq Khan told Sky News he was waiting for the government to provide `` clarity '' on what powers and resources he would be given to enforce localised restrictions if they become necessary .
Last month , the UK 's first full local lockdown was announced in Leicester as part of the government 's `` whack-a-mole '' strategy to deal with local flare-ups in COVID-19 infections .
Shops and schools were closed in the Midlands city , while the reopening of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in line with the rest of England .
Asked about the possibility of similar action being taken within London 's 32 boroughs , Mr Khan told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show : `` At the moment we 're not ready .
`` I 've been lobbying the government for them to provide clarity in relation to the powers and resources we have to enforce a local lockdown .
`` I think it would be possible to have a lockdown based upon a specific building , a factory , a school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It would be very difficult at the moment , because of the lack of clarity , to have a local lockdown based on a geographical area . ''
The London mayor described the Leicester lockdown as a `` case study '' in `` how not to respond to a situation '' .
`` We had examples , we were told , of people in Leicester being able to leave Leicester and go to other cities when the pubs began to reopen , '' Mr Khan said .
`` The government 's got to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , to make sure they provide clarity on what the powers are , what the resources are , in relation to enforcing - heaven forbid - a local lockdown should it be required . ''
Mr Khan welcomed the government 's announcement that the wearing of face coverings in shops and supermarkets will be mandatory in England from 24 July .
But he questioned why the action was n't being taken immediately , adding : `` It 's really important , now that the infection rate appears to be lower , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now is the time to make sure we have all the steps in place to avoid a second wave and , certainly , avoid the need for a second lockdown . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Meanwhile , Labour shadow health minister Justin Madders has written to Baroness Dido Harding , who chairs the government 's test and trace programme , to call for councils to receive daily data on coronavirus infections in their local areas .
`` Councils are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fortnight old and has such little information in it that it is virtually useless in being able to spot and stop local outbreaks , '' Mr Madders said .
`` We are asking that positive test results are given to councils on a daily basis , in real time if possible , and that there should be sufficient information for them to be able to identify the workplace if possible , where an outbreak has occurred .
`` The government needs to be much more open and transparent with local councils so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier and stop transmission of the virus . ''
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson hit back , claiming the accusations were `` wrong '' .
They said : `` We are sharing all relevant data with local areas as soon as it is ready .
`` All councils in England now have the ability to access testing data , right down to individual and postcode level .
`` Public Health England share this is as soon as it has been quality assured and we have been sharing data dashboards with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We will continue to work constructively with councils to protect the public and save lives . ''

London is "not ready" for a local coronavirus lockdown, the capital's mayor has warned.
Sadiq Khan told Sky News he was waiting for the government to provide "clarity" on what powers and resources he would be given to enforce localised restrictions if they become necessary.
Last month, the UK's first full local lockdown was announced in Leicester as part of the government's "whack-a-mole" strategy to deal with local flare-ups in COVID-19 infections.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 London 'not ready' for local lockdowns
Shops and schools were closed in the Midlands city, while the reopening of pubs and restaurants did not take place in line with the rest of England.
Asked about the possibility of similar action being taken within London's 32 boroughs, Mr Khan told Sky News' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show: "At the moment we're not ready.
"I've been lobbying the government for them to provide clarity in relation to the powers and resources we have to enforce a local lockdown.
"I think it would be possible to have a lockdown based upon a specific building, a factory, a school, a place of worship.
"It would be very difficult at the moment, because of the lack of clarity, to have a local lockdown based on a geographical area."
The London mayor described the Leicester lockdown as a "case study" in "how not to respond to a situation".
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"We had examples, we were told, of people in Leicester being able to leave Leicester and go to other cities when the pubs began to reopen," Mr Khan said.
"The government's got to use this opportunity, we've got time, to make sure they provide clarity on what the powers are, what the resources are, in relation to enforcing - heaven forbid - a local lockdown should it be required."
Mr Khan welcomed the government's announcement that the wearing of face coverings in shops and supermarkets will be mandatory in England from 24 July.
But he questioned why the action wasn't being taken immediately, adding: "It's really important, now that the infection rate appears to be lower, the R number appears to be lower, now is the time to make sure we have all the steps in place to avoid a second wave and, certainly, avoid the need for a second lockdown."
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Meanwhile, Labour shadow health minister Justin Madders has written to Baroness Dido Harding, who chairs the government's test and trace programme, to call for councils to receive daily data on coronavirus infections in their local areas.
"Councils are getting testing data which is sometimes nearly a fortnight old and has such little information in it that it is virtually useless in being able to spot and stop local outbreaks," Mr Madders said.
"We are asking that positive test results are given to councils on a daily basis, in real time if possible, and that there should be sufficient information for them to be able to identify the workplace if possible, where an outbreak has occurred.
"The government needs to be much more open and transparent with local councils so that together we can catch local outbreaks earlier and stop transmission of the virus."
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson hit back, claiming the accusations were "wrong".
They said: "We are sharing all relevant data with local areas as soon as it is ready.
"All councils in England now have the ability to access testing data, right down to individual and postcode level.
"Public Health England share this is as soon as it has been quality assured and we have been sharing data dashboards with local authorities since 11 June.
"We will continue to work constructively with councils to protect the public and save lives."


skynewspolitics--2020-07-13--Second wave of coronavirus could cause 120,000 deaths in 'reasonable worst-case scenario'

Coronavirus infections could grow `` out of control '' in the UK with a second spike leading to 120,000 deaths in a `` reasonable worst-case scenario '' , ministers have been warned .
The forecast counts the number of people who could die in hospitals before next June and comes from a report commissioned by Sir Patrick Vallance , the government 's chief scientific adviser , released by the Academy of Medical Sciences .
It suggests a second spike could be more serious than the first , with the R rate - the average number of people someone with COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 1.7 from September .
The current R number in the UK is 0.7-0.9 .
A rising R number would likely see the UK go back into lockdown , given ministers have warned they will reimpose emergency measures if the R rate rises above one .
The 37 scientists and academics behind the report said the peak in hospital admissions and deaths could come in January and February 2021 .
Their startling research does not include deaths in the community or care homes - or take into account any extra interventions by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infectious disease epidemiologist from Imperial College London who worked on the report , told Sky News the findings are `` not a prediction '' but a `` worst-case scenario '' that could see the coronavirus outbreak grow `` out of control '' .
`` As we move into winter , the weather gets worse , people stay indoors more , windows are n't open so the likelihood of transmission does of course increase , '' she said .
`` We also have all sorts of other pressures on the NHS that increase during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals .
`` It 's all of these things coupled together that could cause this worst-case scenario .
We need the systems to be up and running by September . ''
Professor Stephen Holgate , a Medical Research Council clinical professor of immunopharmacology who led the study , suggested the risk of the country being hit so hard `` could be reduced if we take action immediately '' .
He called for flu vaccinations for the vulnerable and health and social care workers and upscaling of the `` test and trace '' programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monitoring '' to stop local outbreaks .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Richard Vautrey , a GP who chairs the British Medical Association 's general practitioners committee , said NHS staff are `` very tired '' having worked `` extremely hard '' to battle the pandemic , but are gearing up for a winter that could be `` extremely difficult to cope with '' .
He urged politicians to get the `` necessary funding in place '' , ensure there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PPE ) and ramp up the test and trace system .
A government spokesperson said the report `` represents a worst-case scenario based on no government action , and makes clear this is n't a prediction '' .
They added : `` Thanks to the nation 's collective efforts , the virus is being brought under control .
`` However we remain vigilant and the government will ensure the necessary resources are in place to avoid a second peak that would overwhelm our NHS .
`` This includes extensive winter planning to protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expanding our large-scale testing capacity , contacting thousands through NHS test and trace , working intensively on new treatments and delivering billions of items of PPE to protect our health and social care workers . ''
Labour warned in response that a second spike of coronavirus cases could be `` catastrophic '' .
Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth called for the health and social care sectors to `` receive the funding needed to prepare for winter alongside a mass roll out of a flu vaccine including the over-50s and most vulnerable to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has insisted he has procured enough flu vaccine to roll out the `` biggest flu vaccine programme in history '' .
And the government has announced it is following the lead of around 120 other countries including Scotland by making face masks in shops in England mandatory from Friday 24 July .
The `` reasonable worst-case planning scenario '' agreed by the government 's advisory group SAGE found on 29 March a first peak could see as many as 50,000 deaths .
So far the government says 44,830 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including hospitals , care homes and the wider community .
But the Office for National Statistics ' latest release said the figure is in fact 50,219 just in England and Wales up to 26 June ( and registered by 4 July ) .

Coronavirus infections could grow "out of control" in the UK with a second spike leading to 120,000 deaths in a "reasonable worst-case scenario", ministers have been warned.
The forecast counts the number of people who could die in hospitals before next June and comes from a report commissioned by Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's chief scientific adviser, released by the Academy of Medical Sciences.
It suggests a second spike could be more serious than the first, with the R rate - the average number of people someone with COVID-19 passes the virus on to - rising to 1.7 from September.
The current R number in the UK is 0.7-0.9.
Image: The report warns there could be up to 120,000 deaths
A rising R number would likely see the UK go back into lockdown, given ministers have warned they will reimpose emergency measures if the R rate rises above one.
The 37 scientists and academics behind the report said the peak in hospital admissions and deaths could come in January and February 2021.
Image: Sir Patrick Vallance commissioned the report
Their startling research does not include deaths in the community or care homes - or take into account any extra interventions by the government.
Professor Azra Ghani, an infectious disease epidemiologist from Imperial College London who worked on the report, told Sky News the findings are "not a prediction" but a "worst-case scenario" that could see the coronavirus outbreak grow "out of control".
"As we move into winter, the weather gets worse, people stay indoors more, windows aren't open so the likelihood of transmission does of course increase," she said.
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"We also have all sorts of other pressures on the NHS that increase during the winter and therefore extra admissions into hospitals.
"It's all of these things coupled together that could cause this worst-case scenario. We need the systems to be up and running by September."
Image: Prof Ghani said the findings are not a prediction of what will happen
Professor Stephen Holgate, a Medical Research Council clinical professor of immunopharmacology who led the study, suggested the risk of the country being hit so hard "could be reduced if we take action immediately".
He called for flu vaccinations for the vulnerable and health and social care workers and upscaling of the "test and trace" programme to ensure a "rapid system of monitoring" to stop local outbreaks.
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
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Richard Vautrey, a GP who chairs the British Medical Association's general practitioners committee, said NHS staff are "very tired" having worked "extremely hard" to battle the pandemic, but are gearing up for a winter that could be "extremely difficult to cope with".
He urged politicians to get the "necessary funding in place", ensure there are enough stocks of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ramp up the test and trace system.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:56 'This is a multi-organ killer,' warn doctors
A government spokesperson said the report "represents a worst-case scenario based on no government action, and makes clear this isn't a prediction".
They added: "Thanks to the nation's collective efforts, the virus is being brought under control.
"However we remain vigilant and the government will ensure the necessary resources are in place to avoid a second peak that would overwhelm our NHS.
"This includes extensive winter planning to protect the NHS and care sector, further expanding our large-scale testing capacity, contacting thousands through NHS test and trace, working intensively on new treatments and delivering billions of items of PPE to protect our health and social care workers."
Image: The health secretary said this winter could see the 'biggest flu vaccine programme in history'
Labour warned in response that a second spike of coronavirus cases could be "catastrophic".
Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth called for the health and social care sectors to "receive the funding needed to prepare for winter alongside a mass roll out of a flu vaccine including the over-50s and most vulnerable to help keep everyone as well as possible".
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has insisted he has procured enough flu vaccine to roll out the "biggest flu vaccine programme in history".
And the government has announced it is following the lead of around 120 other countries including Scotland by making face masks in shops in England mandatory from Friday 24 July.
The "reasonable worst-case planning scenario" agreed by the government's advisory group SAGE found on 29 March a first peak could see as many as 50,000 deaths.
So far the government says 44,830 people have died in all settings, including hospitals, care homes and the wider community.
But the Office for National Statistics' latest release said the figure is in fact 50,219 just in England and Wales up to 26 June (and registered by 4 July).


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--Alleged sex assault victim of former Tory MP 'distraught', court told

A young parliamentary worker told another woman who worked in Westminster that a former Conservative MP `` groped '' her and acted `` inappropriately '' , a court has heard .
Charlie Elphicke , a married 49-year-old father of two , denies three counts of sexual assault , two involving the parliamentary worker in 2016 and one involving another woman in 2007 at his London home .
Appearing at Southwark Crown Court , a witness who worked on the parliamentary estate at the time of the alleged assaults said one of the alleged victims had confided in her .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' she said , adding : `` She said he groped her . ''
The woman said the alleged victim was `` very nervous '' about telling anyone what had happened .
`` She was so distraught , '' the woman told the court , adding that the alleged victim asked her not to say anything .
She also said that the alleged victim had said `` it 's a dirty game here '' in text messages .
A statement from a close friend of the parliamentary worker was also read to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had taken the alleged victim out for dinner and drinks and `` offered her very nice wine from his wine cellar '' .
The friend said she had told him Elphicke could be `` handsy '' and had once contacted him in the evening asking him to pick her up , and that she was `` visibly distressed '' when he arrived .
The friend said : `` She told me Charlie had made an advance on her and my understanding was that was a sexual advance . ''
Also on Tuesday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jury she should not have said `` well done '' after one of Elphicke 's alleged victims finished giving evidence on Monday .
Judge Philippa Whipple told the jury they should `` disregard '' what she said , adding : `` I did n't intend to convey any view at all . ''
Elphicke represented the Kent constituency of Dover for nine years , standing down at the 2019 election .
He was succeeded by his wife , who has accompanied him to court throughout the trial , which continues .

A young parliamentary worker told another woman who worked in Westminster that a former Conservative MP "groped" her and acted "inappropriately", a court has heard.
Charlie Elphicke, a married 49-year-old father of two, denies three counts of sexual assault, two involving the parliamentary worker in 2016 and one involving another woman in 2007 at his London home.
Appearing at Southwark Crown Court, a witness who worked on the parliamentary estate at the time of the alleged assaults said one of the alleged victims had confided in her.
"She said that Charlie had acted inappropriately," she said, adding: "She said he groped her."
The woman said the alleged victim was "very nervous" about telling anyone what had happened.
"She was so distraught," the woman told the court, adding that the alleged victim asked her not to say anything.
She also said that the alleged victim had said "it's a dirty game here" in text messages.
A statement from a close friend of the parliamentary worker was also read to the court.
They said that Elphicke had taken the alleged victim out for dinner and drinks and "offered her very nice wine from his wine cellar".
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The friend said she had told him Elphicke could be "handsy" and had once contacted him in the evening asking him to pick her up, and that she was "visibly distressed" when he arrived.
The friend said: "She told me Charlie had made an advance on her and my understanding was that was a sexual advance."
Also on Tuesday, the judge presiding over the trial told the jury she should not have said "well done" after one of Elphicke's alleged victims finished giving evidence on Monday.
Judge Philippa Whipple told the jury they should "disregard" what she said, adding: "I didn't intend to convey any view at all."
Elphicke represented the Kent constituency of Dover for nine years, standing down at the 2019 election.
He was succeeded by his wife, who has accompanied him to court throughout the trial, which continues.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--'Monstrous' masks will put me off shopping, Tory MP complains

A Tory MP has criticised the `` monstrous imposition '' of shoppers being forced to wear masks to stop the spread of coronavirus .
Sir Desmond Swayne said he was outraged at the policy announced overnight by the government in Westminster that all those entering shops in England will have to wear a face covering - or risk a fine of up to £100 .
He claimed several of his constituents in the New Forest were similarly aggrieved at the new law coming into force on 24 July , which is already in place in Scotland and around 120 other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sending mixed messages in recent days about whether masks to stop COVID-19 infections growing would become mandatory .
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove said on Sunday it was `` best to trust people 's common sense '' but Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a day later that `` people should be wearing '' them in shops .
Voicing his anger in parliament on Tuesday , Sir Desmond said : `` Nothing would make me less likely to go shopping than the thought of having to mask up .
`` Was this consultation with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief constable of Hampshire , for it is she that will have to enforce this monstrous imposition against myself and a number of outraged and reluctant constituents ? ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the MP : `` The balance in the need to restrict the spread of the virus while also allowing the ancient liberties of a gentleman to go shopping is a difficult balance to strike .
`` We have made the judgement that the best way to strike it is to allow a gentleman to go shopping but require him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is for the police but the enforcement I think will largely be undertaken by the British people themselves , who have been remarkable in their fortitude at sticking with these rules even while they may be a frustrating imposition . ''
The debate over whether people should be encouraged or told to wear masks has dragged on for months .
England 's chief medical officer Prof Chris Whitty told Sky News at the start of March that `` wearing a mask if you do n't have an infection reduces the risk almost not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and after more than 44,000 deaths in the UK , Mr Johnson said it has now been established people wearing masks adds a `` great deal of value '' in controlling the spread of coronavirus .

A Tory MP has criticised the "monstrous imposition" of shoppers being forced to wear masks to stop the spread of coronavirus.
Sir Desmond Swayne said he was outraged at the policy announced overnight by the government in Westminster that all those entering shops in England will have to wear a face covering - or risk a fine of up to £100.
He claimed several of his constituents in the New Forest were similarly aggrieved at the new law coming into force on 24 July, which is already in place in Scotland and around 120 other countries.
Image: Sir Desmond Swayne said his constituents were 'outraged and reluctant'
Ministers had been accused of sending mixed messages in recent days about whether masks to stop COVID-19 infections growing would become mandatory.
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove said on Sunday it was "best to trust people's common sense" but Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a day later that "people should be wearing" them in shops.
Voicing his anger in parliament on Tuesday, Sir Desmond said: "Nothing would make me less likely to go shopping than the thought of having to mask up.
"Was this consultation with the police force, in particular the chief constable of Hampshire, for it is she that will have to enforce this monstrous imposition against myself and a number of outraged and reluctant constituents?"
Image: The new law comes into force on 24 July
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the MP: "The balance in the need to restrict the spread of the virus while also allowing the ancient liberties of a gentleman to go shopping is a difficult balance to strike.
"We have made the judgement that the best way to strike it is to allow a gentleman to go shopping but require him to wear a facemask.
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Image: Boris Johnson has changed tack on face masks in shops
"Enforcement is for the police but the enforcement I think will largely be undertaken by the British people themselves, who have been remarkable in their fortitude at sticking with these rules even while they may be a frustrating imposition."
The debate over whether people should be encouraged or told to wear masks has dragged on for months.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:49 London mayor: 'Bring mask policy in immediately'
England's chief medical officer Prof Chris Whitty told Sky News at the start of March that "wearing a mask if you don't have an infection reduces the risk almost not at all".
But since then, and after more than 44,000 deaths in the UK, Mr Johnson said it has now been established people wearing masks adds a "great deal of value" in controlling the spread of coronavirus.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-14--'Put your tail down': MP interrupted by his cat at committee hearing

A parliamentary committee was joined by an unexpected guest during one of its hearings - an MP 's cat .
@ @ @ @ @ Culture , Media and Sport Committee had gathered both in person and virtually to consider @ @ @ @ @ broadcasting .
As MP John Nicolson was asking about the use of subtitles on children @ @ @ @ @ Rojo decided it was the perfect moment for a Zoom star turn .
The feline @ @ @ @ @ popping up on the screen , prompting the SNP MP for Ochil and South Perthshire @ @ @ @ @ cat 's tail '' .
He then appeals to the cat : `` Rojo , @ @ @ @ @ '' prompting laughter from witnesses and other MPs on the call .

A parliamentary committee was joined by an unexpected guest during one of its hearings - an MP's cat.
Members of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee had gathered both in person and virtually to consider the future of public service broadcasting.
As MP John Nicolson was asking about the use of subtitles on children's TV, his cat Rojo decided it was the perfect moment for a Zoom star turn.
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The feline's tail could be seen popping up on the screen, prompting the SNP MP for Ochil and South Perthshire to "apologise for my cat's tail".
He then appeals to the cat: "Rojo, put your tail down," prompting laughter from witnesses and other MPs on the call.