skynewspolitics--2020-07-22--'No plan', 'rushed' and run 'on the hoof': MPs condemn govt's pandemic reaction

A damning report on failures in government planning for the economic impact of coronavirus has been launched by a powerful all-party committee of MPs .
Parliament 's top spending watchdog , the Public Accounts Committee ( PAC ) , has accused Boris Johnson and senior ministers of failing to plan for job losses and school closures .
And in almost certainly the most scathing official report on coronavirus so far , the MPs condemn the government over the failure to obtain PPE equipment to protect front line staff .
The hard-hitting report will alarm ministers and health chiefs , coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promised an independent inquiry into the government 's handling of the pandemic .
The committee says the economic reaction to COVID-19 was rushed , leaving many sectors of the economy behind , and a lack of preparedness could have a long-term impact on the economy .
And it says despite warnings from medical chiefs in January , the Treasury waited until mid-March , days before the lockdown on 23 March , before deciding on economic support schemes .
The committee also issues a stark warning of the impact of the pandemic on children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a huge task to ensure lengthy school closures do not have long-term or irreversible effects on children and young people 's future health and education .
`` Yet , while school closures were predicted in pandemic planning , there seems to have been no plan for how schools and pupils would be supported to continue to learn . ''
The committee urges the government to learn lessons from its response and ensure it does not repeat mistakes again in the event of a second spike in coronavirus or another disease .
And in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report , the MPs declare : `` We are astonished by the government 's failure to consider in advance how it might deal with the economic impacts of a pandemic . ''
Former Labour minister Meg Hillier , who chairs the committee , said : `` Pandemic planning is the bread and butter of government risk planning , but we learn it was treated solely as a health issue , with no planning for the economic impacts .
`` This meant that the economic strategy was of necessity rushed and reactive , initially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and whole sectors of the economy - behind .
`` A competent government does not run a country on the hoof , and it will not steer us through this global health and economic crisis that way .
`` Government needs to take honest stock now , learning , and rapidly changing course where necessary .
`` We need reassurance that there is serious thinking behind how to manage a second spike .
`` This is not some kind of competition - this is our nation 's lives and livelihoods at stake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ World Tomorrow on Apple podcasts , Spotify , Google podcasts and Spreaker The report reveals that the government undertook a pandemic simulation exercise in 2016 known as Exercise Cygnus .
However , the report says : `` Exercise Cygnus may have been health-focused but it is astounding that the government did not think about the potential impact on the economy , and that the Department for Business , Energy and Industrial Strategy was not even aware of the exercise .
`` Despite the first reported case of coronavirus being confirmed by the chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 , the Treasury did not announce plans for significant funding to support businesses and individuals until the Budget on 11 March , and it did not become clear to the Treasury until the following week that a furlough scheme would be needed .
`` The lack of prior thinking on the types of schemes that may be required led to a delay in implementation because the government needed to design the schemes from scratch , particularly in relation to the self-employed scheme where it lacked sufficient , reliable information on who the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for businesses and individuals . ''
The report also calls for more transparency in government decision-making , complaining : `` Decision-making on important issues , such as introducing the Test and Trace programme , has been slow .
`` The government 's response in some areas has been poorly co-ordinated and has not adequately taken into account long-term impacts on people and communities .
`` For example , the government 's 'stop-start ' approach to school closures risks major harm to many children 's life chances , exacerbating already existing inequalities . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office should review crisis command structures to ensure that longer-term decision making , as well as the immediate operational response , is properly informed and coordinated effectively across government . ''
The PAC report is also highly critical of how the issue of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) was handled .
It says : `` There were fundamental flaws in the government 's central procurement and local distribution of vital goods and equipment .
`` We recognise that the government was faced with a massive challenge to procure a huge quantity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 58,000 separate sites including hospitals and care homes .
But , despite a pandemic being identified as the government 's top non-malicious risk , it failed to stock up in advance .
`` The Department of Health and Social Care was not focused enough on the challenge of how to identify need in the care sector and ensure supply of PPE . ''
The report also calls for greater involvement with businesses regarding their needs .
It states : `` The Treasury should engage with key sectors and industries , such as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures aimed at helping those businesses through the ongoing effects of the pandemic . ''
The MPs also claim central government has not given local authorities the clarity or support they need over longer-term funding .
Responding to the report , a government spokesman said : `` As the public would expect , we regularly test our pandemic plans , allowing us to rapidly respond to this unprecedented crisis and protect the NHS .
`` It was clear that coronavirus would affect all areas of the country , that 's why we immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support package for jobs and business worth £160bn .
`` The next stage in our economic response will make a further £30bn available to ensure all areas of the UK bounce back .
`` We 're providing over £100m to support children to learn at home and a £1bn COVID catch up fund will directly tackle the impact of lost teaching time , as schools and colleges welcome children back in September .
`` In addition , we 've committed almost £28 billion to local areas to support councils , businesses and communities @ @

A damning report on failures in government planning for the economic impact of coronavirus has been launched by a powerful all-party committee of MPs.
Parliament's top spending watchdog, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), has accused Boris Johnson and senior ministers of failing to plan for job losses and school closures.
And in almost certainly the most scathing official report on coronavirus so far, the MPs condemn the government over the failure to obtain PPE equipment to protect front line staff.
The hard-hitting report will alarm ministers and health chiefs, coming only a week after the prime minister promised an independent inquiry into the government's handling of the pandemic.
The committee says the economic reaction to COVID-19 was rushed, leaving many sectors of the economy behind, and a lack of preparedness could have a long-term impact on the economy.
And it says despite warnings from medical chiefs in January, the Treasury waited until mid-March, days before the lockdown on 23 March, before deciding on economic support schemes.
The committee also issues a stark warning of the impact of the pandemic on children, stating: "It will be a huge task to ensure lengthy school closures do not have long-term or irreversible effects on children and young people's future health and education.
"Yet, while school closures were predicted in pandemic planning, there seems to have been no plan for how schools and pupils would be supported to continue to learn."
The committee urges the government to learn lessons from its response and ensure it does not repeat mistakes again in the event of a second spike in coronavirus or another disease.
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And in unusually strong language for a select committee report, the MPs declare: "We are astonished by the government's failure to consider in advance how it might deal with the economic impacts of a pandemic."
Former Labour minister Meg Hillier, who chairs the committee, said: "Pandemic planning is the bread and butter of government risk planning, but we learn it was treated solely as a health issue, with no planning for the economic impacts.
"This meant that the economic strategy was of necessity rushed and reactive, initially a one-size-fits-all response that's leaving people - and whole sectors of the economy - behind.
"A competent government does not run a country on the hoof, and it will not steer us through this global health and economic crisis that way.
"Government needs to take honest stock now, learning, and rapidly changing course where necessary.
"We need reassurance that there is serious thinking behind how to manage a second spike.
"This is not some kind of competition - this is our nation's lives and livelihoods at stake."
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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The report reveals that the government undertook a pandemic simulation exercise in 2016 known as Exercise Cygnus.
However, the report says: "Exercise Cygnus may have been health-focused but it is astounding that the government did not think about the potential impact on the economy, and that the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy was not even aware of the exercise.
"Despite the first reported case of coronavirus being confirmed by the chief medical officer in England on 31 January 2020, the Treasury did not announce plans for significant funding to support businesses and individuals until the Budget on 11 March, and it did not become clear to the Treasury until the following week that a furlough scheme would be needed.
"The lack of prior thinking on the types of schemes that may be required led to a delay in implementation because the government needed to design the schemes from scratch, particularly in relation to the self-employed scheme where it lacked sufficient, reliable information on who the recipients should be, causing unnecessary uncertainty for businesses and individuals."
The report also calls for more transparency in government decision-making, complaining: "Decision-making on important issues, such as introducing the Test and Trace programme, has been slow.
"The government's response in some areas has been poorly co-ordinated and has not adequately taken into account long-term impacts on people and communities.
"For example, the government's 'stop-start' approach to school closures risks major harm to many children's life chances, exacerbating already existing inequalities."
The study adds: "The Cabinet Office should review crisis command structures to ensure that longer-term decision making, as well as the immediate operational response, is properly informed and coordinated effectively across government."
The PAC report is also highly critical of how the issue of personal protective equipment (PPE) was handled.
It says: "There were fundamental flaws in the government's central procurement and local distribution of vital goods and equipment.
"We recognise that the government was faced with a massive challenge to procure a huge quantity of personal protective equipment (PPE) for 58,000 separate sites including hospitals and care homes. But, despite a pandemic being identified as the government's top non-malicious risk, it failed to stock up in advance.
"The Department of Health and Social Care was not focused enough on the challenge of how to identify need in the care sector and ensure supply of PPE."
The report also calls for greater involvement with businesses regarding their needs.
It states: "The Treasury should engage with key sectors and industries, such as the aviation sector, to develop bespoke support measures aimed at helping those businesses through the ongoing effects of the pandemic."
The MPs also claim central government has not given local authorities the clarity or support they need over longer-term funding.
Responding to the report, a government spokesman said: "As the public would expect, we regularly test our pandemic plans, allowing us to rapidly respond to this unprecedented crisis and protect the NHS.
"It was clear that coronavirus would affect all areas of the country, that's why we immediately put in place an unprecedented initial economic support package for jobs and business worth £160bn.
"The next stage in our economic response will make a further £30bn available to ensure all areas of the UK bounce back.
"We're providing over £100m to support children to learn at home and a £1bn COVID catch up fund will directly tackle the impact of lost teaching time, as schools and colleges welcome children back in September.
"In addition, we've committed almost £28 billion to local areas to support councils, businesses and communities."


skynewspolitics--2020-07-23--Coronavirus: What is an 'area of intervention'?

There are now four councils in England classed as an `` area of intervention '' on the government 's coronavirus watchlist - but what does that mean ?
What is the coronavirus watchlist ?
The watchlist of local authorities is part of the weekly surveillance report of coronavirus infections published by Public Health England ( PHE ) .
This is all part of Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's `` whack-a-mole '' strategy to deal with local flare-ups in COVID-19 infections .
The government hopes swift , targeted action in the worst-affected areas will reduce the spread of coronavirus and prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full lockdown .
The watchlist is based on the weekly rate of COVID-19 cases in local areas , as well as the trend of whether infections are rising or falling .
PHE says this data is also combined with a range of other indicators such as the test positivity rate , an assessment of the local response and plans , local healthcare and mortality .
The classification of a local council area on the watchlist is a `` blended assessment drawing on professional judgement '' , PHE says .
How is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into which local councils can be placed on the watchlist .
What is an area of concern ?
An area of concern is the lowest level on the watchlist .
It is described by PHE as one of those areas with the highest prevalence of COVID-19 but where local officials are taking targeted actions to reduce the number of infections .
For example , this could include additional testing in care homes or increased engagement with high-risk groups .
Areas of concern currently include Bradford , Calderdale , Kirklees , Northampton , Peterborough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What is an area of enhanced support ?
An area of enhanced support is the next level on the watchlist .
It is described by PHE as an area that is at medium or high risk of intervention and where there is a more detailed plan , agreed with national officials .
There will also be additional resources provided to support local officials , such as extra mobile testing or epidemiological experts .
Pendle , in Lancashire , is currently classified as an area of enhanced support .
What is an area of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the highest level on the watchlist .
It is described by PHE as an area where there is a `` divergence '' between the local measures in place to control the spread of coronavirus and the national restrictions across England .
A detailed action plan will be in place and local resources will be boosted by national-level support .
Leicester , Oadby and Wigston , Blackburn and Darwen , and Luton are all currently areas of intervention .
Last month , Leicester and Oadby and Wigston were subject to the UK 's first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Darwen , and Luton , the local councils have responded to being named an area of intervention by delaying the opening of leisure facilities .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker What can happen in an area of intervention ?
Being classified an area of intervention does not necessarily mean that area enters a local lockdown , as occurred in Leicester and neighbouring Oadby and Wigston .
However , there are a range of measures that might be introduced in an area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and venues such as shops , cafes , gyms , offices or warehouses • cancelling events such as sports events , concerts or weddings • closing outdoor public areas such as parks , playgrounds or beaches • closing schools or limiting schools to certain year groups • restricting travel for everyone but key workers • bespoke measures for those with underlying health conditions who are `` shielding '' Government guidance also states that , in areas of intervention , national officials could take over decision-making .
This could be if : • if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parts of the economy or sectors such as food or energy production • If local action has not been effective

There are now four councils in England classed as an "area of intervention" on the government's coronavirus watchlist - but what does that mean?
What is the coronavirus watchlist?
The watchlist of local authorities is part of the weekly surveillance report of coronavirus infections published by Public Health England (PHE).
This is all part of Prime Minister Boris Johnson'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 2:28 Luton and Blackburn now 'areas of intervention'
The government hopes swift, targeted action in the worst-affected areas will reduce the spread of coronavirus and prevent the whole UK from having to enter a full lockdown.
The watchlist is based on the weekly rate of COVID-19 cases in local areas, as well as the trend of whether infections are rising or falling.
PHE says this data is also combined with a range of other indicators such as the test positivity rate, an assessment of the local response and plans, local healthcare and mortality.
The classification of a local council area on the watchlist is a "blended assessment drawing on professional judgement", PHE says.
How is the watchlist categorised?
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There are three categories into which local councils can be placed on the watchlist.
These are:
areas of concern
areas for enhanced support
areas of intervention
What is an area of concern?
An area of concern is the lowest level on the watchlist.
It is described by PHE as one of those areas with the highest prevalence of COVID-19 but where local officials are taking targeted actions to reduce the number of infections.
For example, this could include additional testing in care homes or increased engagement with high-risk groups.
Areas of concern currently include Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Northampton, Peterborough, Rochdale, Rotherham and Wakefield.
What is an area of enhanced support?
An area of enhanced support is the next level on the watchlist.
It is described by PHE as an area that is at medium or high risk of intervention and where there is a more detailed plan, agreed with national officials.
There will also be additional resources provided to support local officials, such as extra mobile testing or epidemiological experts.
Pendle, in Lancashire, is currently classified as an area of enhanced support.
What is an area of intervention?
An area of intervention is the highest level on the watchlist.
It is described by PHE as an area where there is a "divergence" between the local measures in place to control the spread of coronavirus and the national restrictions across England.
A detailed action plan will be in place and local resources will be boosted by national-level support.
Image: Blackburn has the highest rate of coronavirus infections in England
Leicester, Oadby and Wigston, Blackburn and Darwen, and Luton are all currently areas of intervention.
Last month, Leicester and Oadby and Wigston were subject to the UK's first full local lockdown.
In Blackburn and Darwen, and Luton, the local councils have responded to being named an area of intervention by delaying the opening of leisure facilities.
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What can happen in an area of intervention?
Being classified an area of intervention does not necessarily mean that area enters a local lockdown, as occurred in Leicester and neighbouring Oadby and Wigston.
However, there are a range of measures that might be introduced in an area of intervention.
These include:
closing certain businesses and venues such as shops, cafes, gyms, offices or warehouses
cancelling events such as sports events, concerts or weddings
closing outdoor public areas such as parks, playgrounds or beaches
encouraging people to work from home
closing schools or limiting schools to certain year groups
restricting travel for everyone but key workers
bespoke measures for those with underlying health conditions who are "shielding"
Government guidance also states that, in areas of intervention, national officials could take over decision-making.
This could be if:


skynewspolitics--2020-07-23--Coronavirus pandemic has 'strengthened case for the union' - PM

The coronavirus pandemic has shown the `` merits '' of the union between England and Scotland are `` very strong '' , the prime minister has said .
Speaking during his first visit to Scotland since his December general election victory , Boris Johnson reiterated his opposition to a second independence referendum .
The PM said the strength of the UK has been crucial in the fight against COVID-19 and expressed his desire to `` build back better '' post-pandemic .
He described the union as a `` fantastically strong institution '' , which has `` helped our country through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued : `` It 's very very valuable in terms of the support we 've been able to give to everybody throughout all corners of the UK .
`` We had a referendum on breaking up the union a few years ago , I think only six years ago , that is not a generation by any computation . ''
Nicola Sturgeon 's devolved administration in Edinburgh has been able to enforce its own rules during lockdown .
And Holyrood has taken a different approach to Westminster in a number of areas .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks in shops compulsory weeks before the PM 's government did the same , while also retaining the `` stay at home '' message when Mr Johnson changed it back in May .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Amid this differing approach to the coronavirus , the calls for a second independence vote have continued .
One recent poll found a majority of Scots ( 54 % ) want to leave the union .
Voters rejected independence back in 2014 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of ballots cast .
Ms Sturgeon tweeted ahead of the PM 's visit that his trip `` highlights '' the SNP 's arguments for a fresh referendum .
`` One of the key arguments for independence is the ability of Scotland to take our own decisions , rather than having our future decided by politicians we did n't vote for , taking us down a path we have n't chosen , '' she said .
The pair will not meet during Mr Johnson 's visit .
As part of his trip , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Shetland and the Western Isles to help develop the islands ' economic potential , with handouts for space technology and renewable energy .
The total will be matched by the Scottish government as well .
Mr Johnson hailed this as a `` real opportunity for people here to get some funding to increase what they are already doing , amazing new green technology '' .
He added : `` Around Orkney they could supply 25 % of the UK 's energy needs if they had the infrastructure to go with it so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council here , to support local leaders in their ambitions . ''
Ahead of his visit , Mr Johnson said almost 900,000 workers in Scotland had benefited from UK government assistance during the pandemic .
A small group of masked protesters gathered ahead of his arrival in Stromness , waving signs that said `` Hands off Scotland '' and `` Our Scotland , our future '' , while an `` Indy Ref Now '' placard was seen on the side of a van .
Downing Street said the PM will visit businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working in green energy and military personnel to thank them for their efforts in the response to the virus .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Johnson `` needs to listen not lecture '' during his trip .
`` I think what the coronavirus has shown us is , actually , we should n't be pulling apart the United Kingdom , '' he said .
`` In the health response , and particularly on the economic response , it has been very important that Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an example of why we should n't be pulling apart the United Kingdom . ''
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie criticised the PM and first minister , accusing them of `` using this week as an excuse to bang the drums for their supporters on the constitution '' .
`` We need a common strategy on economic recovery , on preparing for a second wave , on supporting our social care sector , on finding a vaccine and treatments , and so much more , '' he said .
`` Yet instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those solutions we get insults .
They both need to grow up . ''

The coronavirus pandemic has shown the "merits" of the union between England and Scotland are "very strong", the prime minister has said.
Speaking during his first visit to Scotland since his December general election victory, Boris Johnson reiterated his opposition to a second independence referendum.
The PM said the strength of the UK has been crucial in the fight against COVID-19 and expressed his desire to "build back better" post-pandemic.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 'Where's your mask, Boris?': PM heckled in Scotland
He described the union as a "fantastically strong institution", which has "helped our country through thick and thin".
Mr Johnson continued: "It's very very valuable in terms of the support we've been able to give to everybody throughout all corners of the UK.
"We had a referendum on breaking up the union a few years ago, I think only six years ago, that is not a generation by any computation."
Nicola Sturgeon's devolved administration in Edinburgh has been able to enforce its own rules during lockdown.
And Holyrood has taken a different approach to Westminster in a number of areas.
The first minister moved to make face masks in shops compulsory weeks before the PM's government did the same, while also retaining the "stay at home" message when Mr Johnson changed it back in May.
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Amid this differing approach to the coronavirus, the calls for a second independence vote have continued.
One recent poll found a majority of Scots (54%) want to leave the union.
Voters rejected independence back in 2014, with the no side garnering 55% of ballots cast.
Image: As part of his trip, the PM is pledging £50m to Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles
Ms Sturgeon tweeted ahead of the PM's visit that his trip "highlights" the SNP's arguments for a fresh referendum.
"One of the key arguments for independence is the ability of Scotland to take our own decisions, rather than having our future decided by politicians we didn't vote for, taking us down a path we haven't chosen," she said.
The pair will not meet during Mr Johnson's visit.
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As part of his trip, the PM is pledging £50m to Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles to help develop the islands' economic potential, with handouts for space technology and renewable energy.
The total will be matched by the Scottish government as well.
Mr Johnson hailed this as a "real opportunity for people here to get some funding to increase what they are already doing, amazing new green technology".
He added: "Around Orkney they could supply 25% of the UK's energy needs if they had the infrastructure to go with it so we're looking at ways to support the council here, to support local leaders in their ambitions."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 Sturgeon calls UK govt 'shambolic'
Ahead of his visit, Mr Johnson said almost 900,000 workers in Scotland had benefited from UK government assistance during the pandemic.
A small group of masked protesters gathered ahead of his arrival in Stromness, waving signs that said "Hands off Scotland" and "Our Scotland, our future", while an "Indy Ref Now" placard was seen on the side of a van.
Downing Street said the PM will visit businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, those working in green energy and military personnel to thank them for their efforts in the response to the virus.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Johnson "needs to listen not lecture" during his trip.
"I think what the coronavirus has shown us is, actually, we shouldn't be pulling apart the United Kingdom," he said.
"In the health response, and particularly on the economic response, it has been very important that Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom have worked together.
"It's an example of why we shouldn't be pulling apart the United Kingdom."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:25 'Frustration' over four nation approach
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie criticised the PM and first minister, accusing them of "using this week as an excuse to bang the drums for their supporters on the constitution".
"We need a common strategy on economic recovery, on preparing for a second wave, on supporting our social care sector, on finding a vaccine and treatments, and so much more," he said.
"Yet instead of getting round the table to find those solutions we get insults. They both need to grow up."


skynewspolitics--2020-07-23--Government expected to ban junk food advertising before 9pm to tackle obesity

An aggressive anti-obesity strategy is expected to be launched by the government early next week .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to announce restrictions on how unhealthy food is sold , including banning online and TV advertising before 9pm and banning in-store promotions , according to reports .
The Institute Of Practitioners In Advertising ( IPA ) sent a letter to its members warning them of what this could mean for the sector .
The letter , seen by Sky News , described the government 's plans as `` draconian '' .
The institute 's director general Paul Bainsfair said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chancellor , and minister for the cabinet office , explaining the lack of evidence for further restrictions and the `` very real damage they would do across the industry and to agencies '' .
The prime minister has previously criticised moves such as the sugar tax - labelling it a `` sin stealth tax '' - but it is thought his experience of coronavirus , which saw him spend a number of days in hospital , has changed his mind .
Many studies have shown obesity is a risk factor for serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as are other lifestyle-related problems , such as type-two diabetes .
With some experts expecting a second wave of the virus this winter , the prime minister has made clear he wants to tackle obesity so people are as healthy as possible in preparation .
The Health Survey for England in 2017 estimated that 28.7 % of adults in England are obese and a further 35.6 % are overweight .
Obesity is usually defined as having a body mass index ( BMI ) of 30 or above .
BMI between 25 and 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter , Mr Bainsfair criticised the lack of `` joined-up thinking '' from the government , adding : `` We now have strategies which revive and penalise business when the economy is in a parlous state '' .
He cited the government 's own research as showing that a pre-9pm ban on junk food advertising would remove only around 1.7 daily calories from a child 's diet .
`` While the effect on obesity would be insignificant , the ban would have a severe impact on revenues and jobs across the advertising sector @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The advertising industry has much experience of designing effective campaigns to improve the health of the nation .
We have already indicated to government our desire to help with a positive advertising campaign but it appears they do not want to invest in solutions that have been proven to work . ''
He added : `` It seems the nation is being asked to Eat Out To Help Out but that you can not use advertising to help attract audiences .
This is rather like a silent ice cream van arriving @ @ @ @ @

An aggressive anti-obesity strategy is expected to be launched by the government early next week.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to announce restrictions on how unhealthy food is sold, including banning online and TV advertising before 9pm and banning in-store promotions, according to reports.
The Institute Of Practitioners In Advertising (IPA) sent a letter to its members warning them of what this could mean for the sector.
Image: There are concerns that Britons eat too much junk food
The letter, seen by Sky News, described the government's plans as "draconian".
The institute's director general Paul Bainsfair said he had written to the prime minister, chancellor, and minister for the cabinet office, explaining the lack of evidence for further restrictions and the "very real damage they would do across the industry and to agencies".
The prime minister has previously criticised moves such as the sugar tax - labelling it a "sin stealth tax" - but it is thought his experience of coronavirus, which saw him spend a number of days in hospital, has changed his mind.
Many studies have shown obesity is a risk factor for serious complications or death from the virus, as are other lifestyle-related problems, such as type-two diabetes.
With some experts expecting a second wave of the virus this winter, the prime minister has made clear he wants to tackle obesity so people are as healthy as possible in preparation.
The Health Survey for England in 2017 estimated that 28.7% of adults in England are obese and a further 35.6% are overweight. Obesity is usually defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above. BMI between 25 and 30 is classified as overweight.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Ashish Joshi looks at the link between obesity and coronavirus
In his letter, Mr Bainsfair criticised the lack of "joined-up thinking" from the government, adding: "We now have strategies which revive and penalise business when the economy is in a parlous state".
He cited the government's own research as showing that a pre-9pm ban on junk food advertising would remove only around 1.7 daily calories from a child's diet.
"While the effect on obesity would be insignificant, the ban would have a severe impact on revenues and jobs across the advertising sector, including agencies," he said.
"The advertising industry has much experience of designing effective campaigns to improve the health of the nation. We have already indicated to government our desire to help with a positive advertising campaign but it appears they do not want to invest in solutions that have been proven to work."
He added: "It seems the nation is being asked to Eat Out To Help Out but that you cannot use advertising to help attract audiences. This is rather like a silent ice cream van arriving in your street."
Health minister Helen Whately told Sky News the government has been looking at "how to protect children from adverts and the impact of adverts of unhealthy food".
"So of course that is one of the policies that would be looked at," she said, adding that announcements would be made "shortly".
On the sugar tax, Ms Whately said it had led to many manufacturers reducing sugar in their drinks but "one thing we know is that hasn't gone far enough, we need to do more to tackle the challenge of obesity".


skynewspolitics--2020-07-23--When do I have to wear a mask? New guidance for England

Wearing a face covering will be mandatory in shops and other public spaces across England from Friday to stop the spread of coronavirus .
People will also have to wear a mask , scarf or bandana that covers the nose and mouth in shopping centres and indoor transport hubs , like bus and train stations .
When it comes to buying food , the law will depend on where you 're eating it .
Face coverings will not be mandatory in pubs and restaurants .
But they will be to order food from a cafe .
If you are eating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remove the covering in the area dedicated to eat or drink what you 've purchased .
The government has been accused of sending mixed messages in recent days with conflicting advice and examples from ministers - for example Michael Gove deciding not to wear a mask in Pret but the chancellor doing so .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said on Thursday there had been `` some confusion '' and `` greater clarity '' is needed .
But he added : `` I think it 's very important as leader of the opposition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government 's advice .
`` It 's very important that where the advice is to wear the mask we should all do it . ''
Speaking on Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show , Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis confirmed masks must be worn when visiting sandwich shops if taking away .
`` If you are going into Pret a Manger , and you are eating in Pret a Manger , which in some of their stores you can , then obviously you would n't be wearing a face mask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's clear , good common sense that if you are going in to buy a takeaway and you 're leaving again , you 're treating it like a shop and you should be wearing a face mask '' , he said .
Announcing the latest guidance , the Department of Health and Social care said : `` There is evidence to suggest that , when used correctly , face coverings may reduce the likelihood of someone with the infection passing it on to others , particularly if they are asymptomatic . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ law could be fined up to £100 - brought down to £50 if paid within fortnight .
Children under 11 and those with disabilities are exempt , and people can remove face coverings for valid reasons like being asked to do so in a bank or to prove their identity if buying age-restricted products .
: : Listen to The World Tomorrow on Apple podcasts , Spotify , Google podcasts and Spreaker • Eat-in restaurants , cafes and pubs .
Face coverings will be required in cafes or take-away restaurants that do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ designated seating areas .
• Visitor attractions ( such as heritage sites or museums ) But it remains unclear how strictly the new law will be enforced .
Supermarket chain Sainsbury 's has already said they will not challenge customers who enter their stores without a mask .
Head of the Metropolitan Police Cressida Dick has said officers should only be called for someone failing to wear a face covering as `` a last resort '' .
And police and crime commissioners for Thames Valley , Devon and Cornwall have said their officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wear masks , unless they turn violent .
Wearing face coverings in shops is already mandatory in Scotland .

Wearing a face covering will be mandatory in shops and other public spaces across England from Friday to stop the spread of coronavirus.
People will also have to wear a mask, scarf or bandana that covers the nose and mouth in shopping centres and indoor transport hubs, like bus and train stations.
When it comes to buying food, the law will depend on where you're eating it.
Image: People who flout the law face a £100 fine
Face coverings will not be mandatory in pubs and restaurants.
But they will be to order food from a cafe. If you are eating in, you will be allowed to remove the covering in the area dedicated to eat or drink what you've purchased.
The government has been accused of sending mixed messages in recent days with conflicting advice and examples from ministers - for example Michael Gove deciding not to wear a mask in Pret but the chancellor doing so.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said on Thursday there had been "some confusion" and "greater clarity" is needed.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:09 Sky correspondent Thomas Moore looks at the science behind face masks.
But he added: "I think it's very important as leader of the opposition that I say clearly we must follow the government's advice.
"It's very important that where the advice is to wear the mask we should all do it."
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Speaking on Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast show, Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis confirmed masks must be worn when visiting sandwich shops if taking away.
"If you are going into Pret a Manger, and you are eating in Pret a Manger, which in some of their stores you can, then obviously you wouldn't be wearing a face mask because you're eating.
"But it's clear, good common sense that if you are going in to buy a takeaway and you're leaving again, you're treating it like a shop and you should be wearing a face mask", he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:48 Cabinet minister tells people to use 'good common sense'
Announcing the latest guidance, the Department of Health and Social care said: "There is evidence to suggest that, when used correctly, face coverings may reduce the likelihood of someone with the infection passing it on to others, particularly if they are asymptomatic."
Those who fail to follow the new law could be fined up to £100 - brought down to £50 if paid within fortnight.
Children under 11 and those with disabilities are exempt, and people can remove face coverings for valid reasons like being asked to do so in a bank or to prove their identity if buying age-restricted products.
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Places where face coverings will remain discretionary include:
Hairdressers and close contact services
Eat-in restaurants, cafes and pubs. Face coverings will be required in cafes or take-away restaurants that do not provide table service, other than in designated seating areas.
Entertainment venues, including cinemas, concert halls and theatres
Visitor attractions (such as heritage sites or museums)
Gyms and leisure centres
Image: Children under 11 and those with disabilities are exempt from the new law
But it remains unclear how strictly the new law will be enforced.
Supermarket chain Sainsbury's has already said they will not challenge customers who enter their stores without a mask.
Head of the Metropolitan Police Cressida Dick has said officers should only be called for someone failing to wear a face covering as "a last resort".
And police and crime commissioners for Thames Valley, Devon and Cornwall have said their officers will not attend incidents where shoppers refuse to wear masks, unless they turn violent.
Wearing face coverings in shops is already mandatory in Scotland.


skynewspolitics--2020-07-24--'All these anti-vaxxers' are 'nuts', Boris Johnson says, as he warns of 'tough times ahead'

The prime minister has described opponents of vaccines as `` nuts '' , as he predicted Britain will be `` well on the way past '' coronavirus by the `` middle of next year '' .
`` There 's all these anti-vaxxers now .
They are nuts , they are nuts , '' Boris Johnson told nurses at a GP surgery in London .
The PM was speaking as the government announced an expansion of its winter flu vaccination programme , with the aim of doubling the number of people who have the jab .
As the nation continues to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he believes that by the `` middle of next year '' Britain will be `` well on the way past '' COVID-19 .
Speaking on the first anniversary of becoming PM , Mr Johnson added : `` But I must be clear with people , I do still think that we have tough times ahead in keeping this virus under control .
`` We have tough times ahead in coming through economically .
`` But I 've absolutely no doubt that we are going to and this country is going to bounce back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus pandemic has dominated politics for months , with the outbreak killing more than 40,000 people across the UK .
Mr Johnson recently expressed hope of a `` more significant return to normality '' by Christmas .
Last month , the PM told the nation he believes the UK has `` turned the tide '' in the fight against the virus .
A feature of life with coronavirus is the social distancing restrictions , which currently encourage people to remain at least one metre apart from others not in their household .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures remain in place will depend on how well the UK manages to control the spread of the virus .
`` I 'm not going to make a prediction about when these various social distancing measures will come off .
`` Obviously we have been able to reduce some of them .
`` We no longer ask people to stay at home , we 're trying to get back much closer to normal but our ability to dispense with the social distancing measures will depend on our continued ability to drive down the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are required by law to wear face coverings in shops , shopping centres , banks , takeaway outlets , post offices , sandwich shops and supermarkets .
Police can hand out £100 fines to people who break the new rules , but the College of Policing has said officers `` should only be required as a last resort '' .
And some high street chains have said they will not penalise customers for failing to wear a face covering .
Asked if he thinks it is a good idea for members of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who do not comply , the PM said : `` I think we should rely on the massive common sense of the British people that have so far delivered the results that we 've seen , and that 's going to work . ''
Mr Johnson was speaking as the government announced it wants to double the number of people who get the flu jab this winter , with free vaccinations for those aged over 50 and 11-year-olds .
The PM said getting the jab is something that can help to `` protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` everybody '' to get the jab .
`` We want everybody to get a flu jab in the run-up to this winter and that 's why we 're rolling out the biggest-ever programme of flu immunisation , '' he said .
`` And we 're aiming first of all for schoolchildren up to year 7 , for pregnant women , for people over 65 , for people who are shielded , but then we will be extending it to people who are 50 to 65 .
`` Now the reason for doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the winter months because obviously we have still got COVID , we have still got the threat of a second spike of COVID , and it 's vital therefore to keep that pressure off the NHS by everybody getting a flu jab and I really hope everybody will . ''
According to reports , the government is preparing to launch a major anti-obesity strategy next week .
Asked about suggestions that junk food adverts could be banned before the 9pm watershed , Mr Johnson said : `` I 'm not normally a believer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Losing weight is , frankly , one of the ways that you can reduce your own risks from COVID . ''
The PM said he had lost more than a stone in weight since spending three nights in intensive care with COVID-19 , `` primarily by eating less , but also by a lot of exercise '' .
Mr Johnson also spoke of his plans to tackle what he called `` backlog Britain '' - by speeding up the operations of government .
He said he wants people to `` stop thinking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impossible to do things '' and outlined an ambition to deliver services more quickly to the public .

The prime minister has described opponents of vaccines as "nuts", encouraging people to get the jab to help "protect the NHS".
"There's all these anti-vaxxers now. They are nuts, they are nuts," Boris Johnson told nurses at a GP surgery in London.
The PM was speaking as the government announced an expansion of its winter flu vaccination programme, intending to double the number of people who have the jab.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:40 'We want to vaccinate as many as we can'
There will be free vaccinations for those aged over 50 and 11-year-olds.
This is on top of at-risk groups such as people with asthma, heart disease and diabetes, and anyone living with somebody on the COVID-19 shielded list.
Mr Johnson said getting the jab is something that can help to "protect the NHS", adding he wants "everybody" to get the jab.
He said: "We want everybody to get a flu jab in the run-up to this winter and that's why we're rolling out the biggest-ever programme of flu immunisation.
"And we're aiming first of all for schoolchildren up to year seven, for pregnant women, for people over 65, for people who are shielded, but then we will be extending it to people who are 50 to 65.
"Now the reason for doing this is to protect the NHS in the winter months because obviously we have still got COVID, we have still got the threat of a second spike on COVID, and it's vital therefore to keep that pressure off the NHS by everybody getting a flu jab and I really hope everybody will."
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One woman concerned about vaccines, Lottie Daley, hit back at Mr Johnson's comments, describing them as "alarming and wilfully ignorant".
"I think essentially we socially shame parents to vaccinate and we don't listen to mothers who vaccinate and who then encounter problems," she said.
Vaccines go through rigorous testing to prove their safety and have saved millions of lives globally by protecting people from diseases such as measles, smallpox and whooping cough.
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Helen Bedford, professor of children's health at University College London, said vaccines have proven to be "very valuable".
"We can eradicate diseases with vaccines as we've done with smallpox and save many millions of lives every year as a result of vaccines," she said.
"Since the turn of the century, 20 million lives have been saved as a result of the measles vaccine alone, globally."
Ms Bedford added that the "overwhelming majority" of people do get their children vaccinated, while those who do not are in the minority but "often very vocal".