skynewspolitics--2020-10-22--The financial aid packages for virus-hit businesses and their staff

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has broadened government support for businesses and workers as coronavirus restrictions are tightened ahead of a tough winter .
The Treasury had come under pressure from business groups , local leaders and unions to expand grants and wage support to companies forced to limit or close their operations amid warnings of a surge of unemployment when the Job Retention Scheme ends next week .
Mr Sunak acted as official data showed 9 % of the UK workforce remained on furlough or working part-time in early October ahead of the introduction of the new Job Support Scheme that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses .
That takes over on 1 November , with the added incentive for companies to retain staff through a Job Retention Bonus of £1,000 for each employee returned from furlough and kept on until February .
Here , we explain what businesses can claim for themselves and their staff following the chancellor 's update to MPs in the Commons and where it leaves companies in England under the tier structure .
There are two main UK elements and one covering England only .
The successor to the furlough scheme , the Job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will only require employees in open businesses to work one day a week to be eligible for support , with employer contributions for unworked hours falling to 5 % .
An example provided by the Treasury said that under the improved conditions for employers , a full-time member of staff paid an average £1,100 a month would still take home at least £807 - with employers contributing £283 .
Grants for the self-employed are doubled to 40 % of pre-crisis earnings .
It means that the maximum grant will increase from £1,875 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will cover November to January and February to April .
The other main change reflects pressure on many businesses under Tier 2 restrictions in England .
More on that in a minute .
There is no change to the support on offer from the Job Support Scheme for businesses forced to close because of the highest level of restrictions UK-wide .
The government will pay 67 % of wages with no employer contributions .
Under England 's tiered approach , companies can claim up to £3,000 per month under the Local Restrictions Support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tier 3 lockdown .
Firms are eligible for payment after two weeks of closure and the sums are determined by the rateable value of their premises .
Tier 2 businesses are also eligible for self-employed grants and to claim under the new Job Support Scheme .
The big change today is that the chancellor said he recognised that businesses within the `` high '' category of restrictions can not all operate as normal .
He confirmed that cash grants worth up £2,100 a month could be claimed via local authorities - helping an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England .
He said the grants would be retrospective - backdated from the introduction of Tier 2 restrictions - and the support was equivalent to 70 % of the closed grants available to businesses in Tier 3 .
There was no additional help offered to those operating under the mildest measures beyond the changes to the Job Support Scheme and self-employed grants .

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has broadened government support for businesses and workers as coronavirus restrictions are tightened ahead of a tough winter.
The Treasury had come under pressure from business groups, local leaders and unions to expand grants and wage support to companies forced to limit or close their operations amid warnings of a surge of unemployment when the Job Retention Scheme ends next week.
Mr Sunak acted as official data showed 9% of the UK workforce remained on furlough or working part-time in early October ahead of the introduction of the new Job Support Scheme that is designed to support "viable" businesses.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
That takes over on 1 November, with the added incentive for companies to retain staff through a Job Retention Bonus of £1,000 for each employee returned from furlough and kept on until February.
Here, we explain what businesses can claim for themselves and their staff following the chancellor's update to MPs in the Commons and where it leaves companies in England under the tier structure.
The big announcements today
There are two main UK elements and one covering England only.
The successor to the furlough scheme, the Job Support Scheme, which begins next month will only require employees in open businesses to work one day a week to be eligible for support, with employer contributions for unworked hours falling to 5%.
An example provided by the Treasury said that under the improved conditions for employers, a full-time member of staff paid an average £1,100 a month would still take home at least £807 - with employers contributing £283.
Advertisement
Grants for the self-employed are doubled to 40% of pre-crisis earnings. It means that the maximum grant will increase from £1,875 to £3,750 under the two looming schemes which will cover November to January and February to April.
The other main change reflects pressure on many businesses under Tier 2 restrictions in England. More on that in a minute.
There is no change to the support on offer from the Job Support Scheme for businesses forced to close because of the highest level of restrictions UK-wide. The government will pay 67% of wages with no employer contributions.
Under England's tiered approach, companies can claim up to £3,000 per month under the Local Restrictions Support Grant scheme if they fall within a Tier 3 lockdown.
Firms are eligible for payment after two weeks of closure and the sums are determined by the rateable value of their premises.
Tier 2 businesses are also eligible for self-employed grants and to claim under the new Job Support Scheme.
The big change today is that the chancellor said he recognised that businesses within the "high" category of restrictions cannot all operate as normal.
He confirmed that cash grants worth up £2,100 a month could be claimed via local authorities - helping an estimated 150,000 hospitality and leisure firms in England.
He said the grants would be retrospective - backdated from the introduction of Tier 2 restrictions - and the support was equivalent to 70% of the closed grants available to businesses in Tier 3.
There was no additional help offered to those operating under the mildest measures beyond the changes to the Job Support Scheme and self-employed grants.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-22--Migrants being processed at 'rubble-strewn building site', inspectors find

Migrants arriving in Kent after crossing the English Channel are being processed at what resembles a `` rubble-strewn building site '' .
Many were then detained for days at a time in rooms with no sleeping facilities , showers or access to the open air .
A surprise visit to Home Office facilities by HM Inspectorate of Prisons ( HMIP ) exposed a series of failures .
In one case a 15-year-old boy was held for more than 66 hours and records were not clear as to why this had happened .
However inspectors also found detainees were almost all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Charities said the findings were `` extremely disturbing '' and show the `` brutal reality of how refugee children are treated in Priti Patel 's Britain '' .
The report follows visits last month to short-term immigration detention holding facilities at : • Tug Haven in Dover , where migrants were first taken from the beach or sea When migrants first arrive in the UK , after either being picked up in the Channel or landing on beaches , they are taken to Tug Haven in Dover .
Peter Clarke , HM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Detainees almost always arrived wet and cold , but then often had to spend hours in the open air or in cramped containers ... '' Basic supplies , including dry clothing , ran out during the inspection and some detainees were placed on escort vehicles in wet clothes . ''
They also found that there was `` nowhere suitable '' to isolate people displaying symptoms of COVID-19 .
Particular concerns were raised in relation to the treatment of children , many of whom were arriving on UK shores on their own .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ mistakenly taken to a detention centre for adults .
While numbers of migrants crossing in small boats have soared in 2020 , Mr Clarke criticised a failure by the Home Office to plan `` for what must have been a predictable increase '' .
He said : `` Just because numbers are unprecedented , that does not mean they are unpredictable , or can not be planned for . ''
Bella Sankey , director of Detention Action , said : `` Wet , cold , unaccompanied children detained in unacceptable conditions with adult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and little safeguarding , record keeping or basic health screening .
`` This report reveals the brutal reality of how refugee children are treated in Priti Patel 's Britain .
`` HMIP makes it absolutely clear that this is not a result of a rise in numbers , it is a result of her lack of care and action . ''
A spokesperson for Mitie , which manages KIU , Frontier House and Lunar House on behalf of the Home Office , said : `` It 's positive to see the report acknowledge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the frequent use of interpretation services to support initial interviews .
`` However , we appreciate there are still areas for us to work on . ''

Migrants arriving in Kent after crossing the English Channel are being processed at what resembles a "rubble-strewn building site".
Many were then detained for days at a time in rooms with no sleeping facilities, showers or access to the open air.
A surprise visit to Home Office facilities by HM Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP) exposed a series of failures.
In one case a 15-year-old boy was held for more than 66 hours and records were not clear as to why this had happened.
Image: Charities describe the findings as 'extremely disturbing'
However inspectors also found detainees were almost all very positive about their treatment by staff.
Charities said the findings were "extremely disturbing" and show the "brutal reality of how refugee children are treated in Priti Patel's Britain".
The report follows visits last month to short-term immigration detention holding facilities at:
Tug Haven in Dover, where migrants were first taken from the beach or sea
The Kent Intake Unit (KIU) in Dover
Frontier House in Folkestone
Lunar House in Croydon
Yarl's Wood immigration removal centre in Bedford
When migrants first arrive in the UK, after either being picked up in the Channel or landing on beaches, they are taken to Tug Haven in Dover.
Peter Clarke, HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, said: "Detainees almost always arrived wet and cold, but then often had to spend hours in the open air or in cramped containers...
Advertisement
"Basic supplies, including dry clothing, ran out during the inspection and some detainees were placed on escort vehicles in wet clothes."
The Tug Haven facility "resembled a rubble-strewn building site", inspectors said.
They also found that there was "nowhere suitable" to isolate people displaying symptoms of COVID-19.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:29 Sky News witnesses boats crossing the Channel
Particular concerns were raised in relation to the treatment of children, many of whom were arriving on UK shores on their own.
In one case, a child was mistakenly taken to a detention centre for adults.
While numbers of migrants crossing in small boats have soared in 2020, Mr Clarke criticised a failure by the Home Office to plan "for what must have been a predictable increase".
He said: "Just because numbers are unprecedented, that does not mean they are unpredictable, or cannot be planned for."
Bella Sankey, director of Detention Action, said: "Wet, cold, unaccompanied children detained in unacceptable conditions with adult strangers, no access to legal advice and little safeguarding, record keeping or basic health screening.
"This report reveals the brutal reality of how refugee children are treated in Priti Patel's Britain.
"HMIP makes it absolutely clear that this is not a result of a rise in numbers, it is a result of her lack of care and action."
A spokesperson for Mitie, which manages KIU, Frontier House and Lunar House on behalf of the Home Office, said: "It's positive to see the report acknowledge that our colleagues treat detainees with respect including the frequent use of interpretation services to support initial interviews.
"However, we appreciate there are still areas for us to work on."


skynewspolitics--2020-10-22--UK and Japan to sign £15.2bn free trade agreement in Tokyo

The UK and Japan will sign a free trade agreement on Friday .
The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement ( CEPA ) , which was agreed in principle last month , marks Britain 's first post-Brexit trade deal .
The government claim the agreement will boost trade with Japan by £15.2bn over the next 15 years - and UK businesses will enjoy tariff-free trade on 99 % of exports to the country .
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss had struck the deal with Japan 's foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi on a video call on 11 September .
They will sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a `` landmark moment for Britain '' - in Tokyo on Friday .
`` At its heart , this deal is about creating opportunity and prosperity for all parts of our United Kingdom and driving the economic growth we need to overcome the challenges of coronavirus , '' Ms Truss said .
The government said the deal would support UK car and rail manufacturing jobs , lower tariffs on products like pork , beef and salmon , and British consumers would get access to cheaper , high-quality Japanese goods .
Dame Carolyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` The signing of the UK 's first independent trade agreement is a milestone for our economy and will be welcomed by businesses in many sectors .
`` This deal has the potential to support jobs across the country through lifting British farming exports and supporting our manufacturing and services sectors .
Consumers will also benefit through greater choice . ''
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Government analysis found that a deal with Japan would boost the UK 's GDP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and increase UK workers ' wages by £800m in the long run .
Once signed , the government will publish a full report on the agreement , including any significant differences or enhancements .
Brexit talks between Britain and the European Union are set to resume after stalling last week when Downing Street insisted there was no point in resuming discussions unless there was a change in stance from the EU .
The EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier has welcomed the reopening of talks and told reporters in London that he wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Allie Renison , senior policy advisor at the Institute of Directors , said : `` This standalone trade deal [ with Japan ] could be the cherry on top if the UK manages to land an EU deal as we exit the transition period . ''

The UK and Japan have signed a free trade agreement at a ceremony in Tokyo, hours before negotiations on a post-Brexit deal with the European Union are due to resume.
The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which was agreed in principle last month, marks Britain's first deal with a major economy since Brexit.
The government claims the agreement will boost trade with Japan by £15.2bn over the next 15 years - and UK businesses will enjoy tariff-free trade on 99% of exports to the country.
Image: International Trade Secretary Liz Truss talks with Japan's foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi in June. Pic: Andrew Parsons/10 Downing Street
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss had struck the deal with Japan's foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi on a video call on 11 September.
After the ceremony, Ms Truss said: "How fitting it is to be in the land of the rising sun to welcome in the dawn of a new era of free trade." She added it would "pave the way" towards UK membership of the wider Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Ms Truss had earlier hailed the importance of the agreement.
"At its heart, this deal is about creating opportunity and prosperity for all parts of our United Kingdom and driving the economic growth we need to overcome the challenges of coronavirus," she said.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The government said the deal would support UK car and rail manufacturing jobs, lower tariffs on products like pork, beef and salmon, and British consumers would get access to cheaper, high-quality Japanese goods.
Advertisement
Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI director general, said: "The signing of the UK's first independent trade agreement is a milestone for our economy and will be welcomed by businesses in many sectors.
"This deal has the potential to support jobs across the country through lifting British farming exports and supporting our manufacturing and services sectors. Consumers will also benefit through greater choice."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:14 'Every day counts' as Brexit talks resume
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Government analysis found that a deal with Japan would boost the UK's GDP by around 0.07% over 15 years and increase UK workers' wages by £800m in the long run.
It is due to publish a full report on the agreement, including any significant differences or enhancements.
Brexit talks between Britain and the European Union are set to resume after stalling last week when Downing Street insisted there was no point in resuming discussions unless there was a change in stance from the EU.
The EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier has welcomed the reopening of talks and told reporters in London that he wanted to make "every day count".
Allie Renison, senior policy advisor at the Institute of Directors, said: "This standalone trade deal [with Japan] could be the cherry on top if the UK manages to land an EU deal as we exit the transition period."


skynewspolitics--2020-10-22--Russian 'Fancy Bear' unit hit with sanctions by UK over cyber attack on German parliament

Britain has imposed travel bans and asset freezes on a Russian unit over a cyber attack on Germany 's parliament .
The sanctions , part of European Union action , will be enforced on two Russian GRU officers and a hacking unit - judged to be part of the GRU - known as APT28 or Fancy Bear .
Germany has found Russia responsible for the 2015 hack of its parliament , the Bundestag , which was said to have caused the theft of more than 16 gigabytes of data , including MPs ' confidential emails .
The Foreign Office announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Germany and our European partners to hold Russia to account for cyber attacks designed to undermine Western democracies , '' said Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab .
`` This criminal behaviour brings the Russian government into further disrepute . ''
Britain is continuing to coordinate with the EU 's sanctions regime during the Brexit transition period , after which the UK will have its own regime .
UK security chiefs have previously judged APT28 to be part of the GRU , the Russian military intelligence services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the hacking of the Democratic National Committee ( DNC ) servers during the 2016 US election campaign , as well as the hacking of the World Anti-Doping Agency 's database in the same year .
The action against the unit over the Bundestag attack came as Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed Germany and China are now heading for superpower status while the influence of America , along with that of Britain and France , wanes .
Addressing a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club via video link , Mr Putin was reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US and Russia decided the world 's most important questions was in the past .
If the US was not prepared to discuss global problems with Moscow , Russia stood ready to have that discussion with other nations , the Russian president was said to have added .

Britain has imposed travel bans and asset freezes on a Russian unit over a cyber attack on Germany's parliament.
The sanctions, part of European Union action, will be enforced on two Russian GRU officers and a hacking unit - judged to be part of the GRU - known as APT28 or Fancy Bear.
Germany has found Russia responsible for the 2015 hack of its parliament, the Bundestag, which was said to have caused the theft of more than 16 gigabytes of data, including MPs' confidential emails.
The Foreign Office announced the sanctions would come into force immediately
"The UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Germany and our European partners to hold Russia to account for cyber attacks designed to undermine Western democracies," said Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.
"This criminal behaviour brings the Russian government into further disrepute."
Britain is continuing to coordinate with the EU's sanctions regime during the Brexit transition period, after which the UK will have its own regime.
UK security chiefs have previously judged APT28 to be part of the GRU, the Russian military intelligence services.
The group have also been blamed for the hacking of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) servers during the 2016 US election campaign, as well as the hacking of the World Anti-Doping Agency's database in the same year.
Advertisement
Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin said the influence of the US, Britain and France was waning
The action against the unit over the Bundestag attack came as Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed Germany and China are now heading for superpower status while the influence of America, along with that of Britain and France, wanes.
Addressing a meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club via video link, Mr Putin was reported to have said the era when the US and Russia decided the world's most important questions was in the past.
If the US was not prepared to discuss global problems with Moscow, Russia stood ready to have that discussion with other nations, the Russian president was said to have added.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-22--Mayor was urged by fellow Tories not to criticise government over lockdown support

West Midlands mayor Andy Street was urged to stop criticising the government by fellow Conservatives when he lobbied the chancellor to provide more support to struggling businesses .
Mr Street told Sky News members of his party asked him to keep quiet despite his concerns that Tier 2 COVID-19 restrictions would endanger businesses , and said the government was `` playing a bit of catch-up '' .
`` I will be honest with you and say that there were some in the Conservative Party who said you should n't be criticising your own government , '' he said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear .
This is what businesses in this region needed , and I was determined to fight for them and I 've done that , hopefully with cross-party support from the region , and most importantly the support of the sector in the region , and it 's that unity that I think has seen us through . ''
Mr Street was one of several regional mayors to raise concerns about the chilling impact that Tier 2 would have on pubs , bars and restaurants .
Despite being able to remain open , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venues has depressed demand to the point that many venues said they would prefer to be closed under Tier 3 , where they were eligible for financial support .
Almost two weeks after the tier system was introduced , Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced enhanced support for companies in all sectors .
The revised Job Support Scheme , which will replace furlough next month , has become more generous , with employees required to work just 20 % of hours and receiving two-thirds of their wages , with employers paying just 5 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generous than furlough but the chancellor will hope it will hold off a predicted wave of unemployment .
Critics say the government has only acted when Tier 2 restrictions reached the West Midlands and London , contrasting the action with the protracted and fractious negotiations with Labour mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham over support for entering Tier 3 .
Mr Street said events had forced the government 's hand , and suggested they had not foreseen the dramatic impact of Tier 2 on consumer demand .
`` I think this is all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
`` When the chancellor stood up just a very few weeks ago , and talked about his winter economy plan , no one expected the level of the virus to be as it is , the Tier 2 restrictions to be as they are , so I think what this is about , is in essence playing a bit of catch up , but at least they responded quickly , and they 've listened to the argument being put forward .
`` They were very much focused on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they had an answer there , but they had n't thought two weeks ago about this , let 's call it middle tier , some of the hospitality business said it 's the worst of all worlds , and I really understand that .
`` That 's why we were quick in arguing the case and to be fair , it 's been a matter of days it 's taken them to respond .
`` We have of course also said , if the situation has n't improved by after Christmas we 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think about the VAT extension .
We need to still think about business rates , but as a step today , I think it 's very , very significant and certainly welcome . ''
Cases continue to rise in the West Midlands but the mayor said it was not `` inevitable '' that the region comes under Tier 3 if people follow current restrictions .
`` I do n't think it 's inevitable .
No , that 's too tough , but we 've got to be honest , it could happen , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really clear there are no discussions yet about formerly moving any parts of the West Midlands into Tier 3 , but the numbers are still rising here steadily , slower than many other parts of the country , but if we do n't turn that rise , then we will end up with a discussion about Tier 3 so it 's in everybody 's interest across the West Midlands to follow the rules and make sure we stick where we are . ''

West Midlands mayor Andy Street was urged to stop criticising the government by fellow Conservatives when he lobbied the chancellor to provide more support to struggling businesses.
Mr Street told Sky News members of his party asked him to keep quiet despite his concerns that Tier 2 COVID-19 restrictions would endanger businesses, and said the government was "playing a bit of catch-up".
"I will be honest with you and say that there were some in the Conservative Party who said you shouldn't be criticising your own government," he said.
"But my driving force is really very clear. This is what businesses in this region needed, and I was determined to fight for them and I've done that, hopefully with cross-party support from the region, and most importantly the support of the sector in the region, and it's that unity that I think has seen us through."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:02 Rishi Sunak has announced a new support package for businesses affected by Tier 2 restrictions
Mr Street was one of several regional mayors to raise concerns about the chilling impact that Tier 2 would have on pubs, bars and restaurants.
Despite being able to remain open, the restriction on households mixing inside hospitality venues has depressed demand to the point that many venues said they would prefer to be closed under Tier 3, where they were eligible for financial support.
Almost two weeks after the tier system was introduced, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced enhanced support for companies in all sectors.
The revised Job Support Scheme, which will replace furlough next month, has become more generous, with employees required to work just 20% of hours and receiving two-thirds of their wages, with employers paying just 5%.
The Job Support Scheme remains less generous than furlough but the chancellor will hope it will hold off a predicted wave of unemployment.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:40 The majority of British people support a two-week
Critics say the government has only acted when Tier 2 restrictions reached the West Midlands and London, contrasting the action with the protracted and fractious negotiations with Labour mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham over support for entering Tier 3.
Mr Street said events had forced the government's hand, and suggested they had not foreseen the dramatic impact of Tier 2 on consumer demand.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:45 Chancellor has 'listened to the hospitality industry'
"I think this is all about how fast this situation is moving," he said.
"When the chancellor stood up just a very few weeks ago, and talked about his winter economy plan, no one expected the level of the virus to be as it is, the Tier 2 restrictions to be as they are, so I think what this is about, is in essence playing a bit of catch up, but at least they responded quickly, and they've listened to the argument being put forward.
"They were very much focused on, if we have to close then they had an answer there, but they hadn't thought two weeks ago about this, let's call it middle tier, some of the hospitality business said it's the worst of all worlds, and I really understand that.
"That's why we were quick in arguing the case and to be fair, it's been a matter of days it's taken them to respond.
"We have of course also said, if the situation hasn't improved by after Christmas we'll need further extensions, we need to think about the VAT extension. We need to still think about business rates, but as a step today, I think it's very, very significant and certainly welcome."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:31 Burnham: No 10 'walked away' from Tier 3 talks
Cases continue to rise in the West Midlands but the mayor said it was not "inevitable" that the region comes under Tier 3 if people follow current restrictions.
"I don't think it's inevitable. No, that's too tough, but we've got to be honest, it could happen," he said.
"To be really clear there are no discussions yet about formerly moving any parts of the West Midlands into Tier 3, but the numbers are still rising here steadily, slower than many other parts of the country, but if we don't turn that rise, then we will end up with a discussion about Tier 3 so it's in everybody's interest across the West Midlands to follow the rules and make sure we stick where we are."


skynewspolitics--2020-10-22--Govt accused of only providing extra cash once London affected by new COVID rules

The leaders of Greater Manchester and Merseyside have accused the government of only providing extra support to coronavirus-hit businesses once restrictions were imposed on parts of southern England .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak on Thursday broadened support for firms and workers affected by localised COVID-19 measures with billions of pounds of extra help .
This included changes to the Job Support Scheme , which replaces the furlough scheme from next month , to allow employees in open businesses to work only one day a week to be eligible for support , with employer contributions for unworked hours falling to 5 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubled to 40 % of pre-crisis earnings , increasing the maximum grant from £1,875 to £3,750 .
And businesses affected by Tier 2 restrictions will be able to claim cash grants worth up to £2,100 a month from local authorities , to be backdated from the introduction of those measures .
The announcement came just two days after the government walked out of talks with Greater Manchester 's leaders on a financial support package to accompany the region being placed into Tier 3 restrictions .
Ministers were accused of failing to grant an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement of local leaders and averted Prime Minister Boris Johnson from having to unilaterally impose fresh measures .
The chancellor 's announcement of further economic support , for which firms will be able to backdate claims from August , riled politicians in the north of England .
They claimed Mr Sunak had only acted following the imposition of Tier 2 restrictions on London last week , even though other parts of England - including Greater Manchester - had been living under similar measures for months .
Andy Burnham , the mayor of Greater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bitter political row with ministers , posted on Twitter : `` Honestly , can barely believe what I 'm reading here .
`` Why on earth was this not put on the table on Tuesday to reach an agreement with us ?
`` I said directly to the PM that a deal was there to be done if it took into account the effects on GM businesses of three months in Tier 2 . ''
Sir Richard Leese , the leader of Manchester City Council , tweeted : `` Looks like Rishi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pity he could n't have done it two weeks ago . ''
And Steve Rotherham , the mayor of the Liverpool City Region , said : `` It 's a shame that it took London coming under further measures for the Chancellor to take action to support jobs and businesses . ''
London , most of Essex and Elmbridge in Surrey were last week put into Tier 2 measures , which means people must not socialise with other households indoors , including in pubs and restaurants .
Similar measures had been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West since the summer .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Speaking later at a Downing Street news conference , Mr Sunak said the Job Support Scheme was designed over the summer `` with a view to the economy being open and restrictions being lifted '' .
`` Obviously the last few weeks , that has not been as those businesses had expected , '' he said .
`` Those restrictions were coming back , they were having a cumulative effect on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas , particularly in hospitality .
`` That 's been the cumulative weight of the changes and the impact , more broadly , on consumer confidence that we 've seen .
`` And that 's why we 've been in discussions to try and see what changes we can make that would do what we want to do - which is to try and protect jobs and employment at this difficult time . ''
Mr Johnson said : `` The negotiations between regional leaders , between metro mayors , was all about fairness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about , it was about making sure everybody got the same package .
`` What we 're trying to do now is address a national issue , which is that - obviously since the virus started to come up again - there 's been much more concern , particularly amongst the business community , about people 's ability to protect jobs and livelihoods because of the effects of the virus . ''
The latest row over the government 's new three-tier approach to localised lockdown rules came as ministers were warned by Dan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mayor , that coronavirus had put northern England `` on course for levelling down , not up '' - in contrast to the prime minister 's general election pledge .

The leaders of Greater Manchester and Merseyside have accused the government of only providing extra support to coronavirus-hit businesses once restrictions were imposed on parts of southern England.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak on Thursday broadened support for firms and workers affected by localised COVID-19 measures with billions of pounds of extra help.
This included changes to the Job Support Scheme, which replaces the furlough scheme from next month, to allow employees in open businesses to work only one day a week to be eligible for support, with employer contributions for unworked hours falling to 5%.
Grants for the self-employed will be doubled to 40% of pre-crisis earnings, increasing the maximum grant from £1,875 to £3,750.
And businesses affected by Tier 2 restrictions will be able to claim cash grants worth up to £2,100 a month from local authorities, to be backdated from the introduction of those measures.
Image: Measures under Tiers 1, 2 and 3 of England's lockdown system
The announcement came just two days after the government walked out of talks with Greater Manchester's leaders on a financial support package to accompany the region being placed into Tier 3 restrictions.
Ministers were accused of failing to grant an extra £5m that would have secured the agreement of local leaders and averted Prime Minister Boris Johnson from having to unilaterally impose fresh measures.
The chancellor's announcement of further economic support, for which firms will be able to backdate claims from August, riled politicians in the north of England.
They claimed Mr Sunak had only acted following the imposition of Tier 2 restrictions on London last week, even though other parts of England - including Greater Manchester - had been living under similar measures for months.
Advertisement
Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester who has recently been engaged in a bitter political row with ministers, posted on Twitter: "Honestly, can barely believe what I'm reading here.
"Why on earth was this not put on the table on Tuesday to reach an agreement with us?
"I said directly to the PM that a deal was there to be done if it took into account the effects on GM businesses of three months in Tier 2."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:02 Chancellor sets out three extra support measures
Sir Richard Leese, the leader of Manchester City Council, tweeted: "Looks like Rishi Sunak is agreeing with Greater Manchester Leaders. Pity he couldn't have done it two weeks ago."
And Steve Rotherham, the mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: "It's a shame that it took London coming under further measures for the Chancellor to take action to support jobs and businesses."
London, most of Essex and Elmbridge in Surrey were last week put into Tier 2 measures, which means people must not socialise with other households indoors, including in pubs and restaurants.
Similar measures had been in place in large parts of the North West since the summer.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Speaking later at a Downing Street news conference, Mr Sunak said the Job Support Scheme was designed over the summer "with a view to the economy being open and restrictions being lifted".
"Obviously the last few weeks, that has not been as those businesses had expected," he said.
"Those restrictions were coming back, they were having a cumulative effect on the ground, particularly in Tier 2 areas, particularly in hospitality.
"That's been the cumulative weight of the changes and the impact, more broadly, on consumer confidence that we've seen.
"And that's why we've been in discussions to try and see what changes we can make that would do what we want to do - which is to try and protect jobs and employment at this difficult time."
Mr Johnson said: "The negotiations between regional leaders, between metro mayors, was all about fairness - that's what that discussion was about, it was about making sure everybody got the same package.
"What we're trying to do now is address a national issue, which is that - obviously since the virus started to come up again - there's been much more concern, particularly amongst the business community, about people's ability to protect jobs and livelihoods because of the effects of the virus."
The latest row over the government's new three-tier approach to localised lockdown rules came as ministers were warned by Dan Jarvis, the Sheffield City Region's mayor, that coronavirus had put northern England "on course for levelling down, not up" - in contrast to the prime minister's general election pledge.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-23--Scotland's new five-level system revealed - here's how it works

Nicola Sturgeon has revealed the Scottish alternative to Boris Johnson 's tiered system of coronavirus restrictions .
While England has three levels of measures , Scotland 's first minister has gone for five .
She said individual regions could be placed under different ones , so `` we do n't have to take a one-size-fits-all approach if that is not warranted '' .
They will come into force on 2 November , if Ms Sturgeon 's plans are approved by the Scottish parliament next week .
Here are the details : This would be `` the closest to normality we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatments for COVID or a vaccine against COVID '' , the first minister said .
Eight people from three households can meet indoors and most businesses can open with safety measures in place .
It is most comparable to Scotland 's situation in August when the virus was `` very suppressed but still a threat '' .
Indoor household meetings are restricted to six people from two households .
This would see a `` reasonable degree of normality '' remain and be similar to the situation in mid-September when `` cases started to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low '' .
This applies when transmission of the virus is higher and rising and would see limitations on hospitality businesses and no gatherings allowed in people 's homes .
It is similar to current restrictions outside the Scottish central belt .
This would see much of hospitality closed , and similar to the measures in place in the Scottish central belt .
But Ms Sturgeon said a crucial difference would be that restaurants can partially open .
Non-essential shops must close and it is a sign the NHS is at risk of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ households can meet outdoors and the government will seek to keep manufacturing and construction firms open .
Ms Sturgeon confirmed `` we do not envisage returning to a situation as serve as the first lockdown '' .
She said if MSPs approve the plan , the Scottish government will then make decisions about which parts of the country go into which level .
`` None of us want to be imposing restrictions to businesses or individuals that are not absolutely necessary , '' the SNP leader added in her daily news conference .

Scotland's new five-tier restrictions to tackle the coronavirus pandemic are now in force.
The measures affect Scots by local authority rather than health board area - with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon warning the Scottish government will not hesitate to increase the level of protection either locally or nationally if required.
The levels have been graded from zero to four, with no local authorities placed under the toughest measures at the highest level for now.
Levels 1, 2 and 3 are broadly comparable to the three tiers of restrictions currently set in England - before their national lockdown later this week - while Level 0 is similar to what was in place across Scotland in August when the virus was suppressed to very low levels.
Image: Nicola Sturgeon said only restrictions 'absolutely necessary' would be imposed
The central belt - including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Stirling and Falkirk - are joined by Dundee and Ayrshire in Level 3.
Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen, Fife, the Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, Argyll and Bute, Perth and Kinross and Angus are in Level 2 - with the socialising rules remaining the same as Level 3.
Elsewhere, Highland, Moray, Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland have been assessed as Level 1.
A postcode checker has been launched to help people check where their area is in the new system.
The levels explained in detail:
Advertisement
Level 0
This would be "the closest to normality we can safely get to without more effective treatments for COVID or a vaccine against COVID", the first minister said.
Eight people from three households can meet indoors and most businesses can open with safety measures in place.
It is most comparable to Scotland's situation in August when the virus was "very suppressed but still a threat".
Image: MSPs must approve the plans first
Level 1
Indoor household meetings are prohibited, but six people from two households can meet indoors in a public place such as a cafe or restaurant.
This would see a "reasonable degree of normality" remain and is similar to the situation in mid-September when "cases started to rise again but prevalence was still fairly low".
Level 2
This applies when transmission of the virus is higher and rising and would see limitations on hospitality businesses and no gatherings allowed in people's homes.
It is similar to current restrictions outside the central belt.
Image: Hospitality firms would be affected in areas in Level 2 and above
Level 3
This would see much of hospitality closed, and similar to the measures in place in the central belt.
But Ms Sturgeon said a crucial difference would be that restaurants can partially open.
Level 4
Non-essential shops must close and it is a sign the NHS is at risk of being overwhelmed.
Six people from two households can meet outdoors and the government will seek to keep manufacturing and construction firms open.
Image: Level 4 is only for regions where the NHS may be overwhelmed
Ms Sturgeon said the new approach would enable the Scottish government "to respond quickly and flexibly as required, particularly in areas where we are concerned about the rate at which the virus is spreading".
She added: "It is important we all comply with the rules in our area if we are to successfully suppress the virus, avoid the need for tighter restrictions and protect the NHS.
"It's crucial that everyone knows what level their local authority is in and that they stick to the rules in their area.
"The postcode tracker will be a vital tool in helping to ensure this happens."


skynewspolitics--2020-10-22--UK and Japan sign £15.2bn free trade agreement in Tokyo

The UK and Japan have signed a free trade agreement at a ceremony in Tokyo , hours before negotiations on a post-Brexit deal with the European Union are due to resume .
The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement ( CEPA ) , which was agreed in principle last month , marks Britain 's first deal with a major economy since Brexit .
The government claims the agreement will boost trade with Japan by £15.2bn over the next 15 years - and UK businesses will enjoy tariff-free trade on 99 % of exports to the country .
International Trade Secretary Liz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi on a video call on 11 September .
After the ceremony , Ms Truss said : `` How fitting it is to be in the land of the rising sun to welcome in the dawn of a new era of free trade . ''
She added it would `` pave the way '' towards UK membership of the wider Trans-Pacific Partnership .
Ms Truss had earlier hailed the importance of the agreement .
`` At its heart , this deal is about creating opportunity and prosperity for all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economic growth we need to overcome the challenges of coronavirus , '' she said .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The government said the deal would support UK car and rail manufacturing jobs , lower tariffs on products like pork , beef and salmon , and British consumers would get access to cheaper , high-quality Japanese goods .
Dame Carolyn Fairbairn , CBI director general , said : `` The signing of the UK 's first independent trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will be welcomed by businesses in many sectors .
`` This deal has the potential to support jobs across the country through lifting British farming exports and supporting our manufacturing and services sectors .
Consumers will also benefit through greater choice . ''
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Government analysis found that a deal with Japan would boost the UK 's GDP by around 0.07 % over 15 years and increase UK workers ' wages by £800m in the long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full report on the agreement , including any significant differences or enhancements .
Brexit talks between Britain and the European Union are set to resume after stalling last week when Downing Street insisted there was no point in resuming discussions unless there was a change in stance from the EU .
The EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier has welcomed the reopening of talks and told reporters in London that he wanted to make `` every day count '' .
Allie Renison , senior policy advisor at the Institute of Directors , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ with Japan ] could be the cherry on top if the UK manages to land an EU deal as we exit the transition period . ''


skynewspolitics--2020-10-23--Coronavirus-related medicine stockpiles are running low, Labour claims

Labour is claiming emergency stocks of some vital COVID-related drugs are running out ahead of a second wave of the pandemic .
Emily Thornberry , Labour 's shadow international trade secretary , says the government 's own figures show many drug stockpiles are at zero .
The shortages include bacterial antibiotics and high-strength painkillers , according to figures published in parliament by the health minister Ed Argar .
Ms Thornberry is now calling on the government to spell out how it will replenish the supplies that are running out , either through imports or by boosting domestic capacity .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers what they were doing to replace our stockpiles of essential medicines in case we faced another crisis in demand , and they assured me that action was being taken , '' she said .
`` But on the basis of these new figures , our current stockpiles appear well short of the levels we had this time last year , especially in respect of vital life-saving and pain relief medicines for hospitalised COVID patients .
`` On an issue as important as this , the country needs decisive and effective leadership , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back up to last year 's levels . ''
The shortages emerged after Ms Thornberry asked a parliamentary question to the Department of Health demanding to know how current drug stockpiles compare with a year ago .
In his reply , Mr Argar said : `` The government continues to hold stockpiles of medicines to cope with a range of scenarios , and robust contingency planning continues to ensure that the country is prepared for a possible second peak of COVID-19 infections .
`` The department has recently undertaken a tender exercise to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second tender exercise is currently live .
`` This is a new stockpile and we are currently in the process of awarding contracts and taking and arranging for the delivery of supplies of some of these medicines . ''
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The emergency stockpiles are known as the Essential Medicines Buffer Stock , which was created to support the NHS in the event of a pandemic or other health emergency by making sure the supply chain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of coronavirus , earlier this year , medicine stockpiles were high , as ministers had built them up ahead of a possible no-deal Brexit at the end of last year .
But at the height of the lockdown in April , the government was forced to import 2.8 million packs of paracetamol from India after shoppers cleared supermarket and pharmacy shelves .
Ms Thornberry claims Mr Argar 's latest figures reveal Britain currently has no stockpiles of high-strength painkillers such as injectable morphine or the bacterial antibiotic doxycycline , used to treat pneumonia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meropenem powder , an antibiotic used to treat bacterial side-infections , is down from 508,540 injections last year to 112,270 now .
And the following stockpiles are now down to zero : • Doxycycline antibiotic , used to treat bacterial side-infections , down from 10,510,440 capsules last year • Fentanyl opioid , down from 818,914 injections last year • Morphine opioid : down from 1,115,656 injections last year • Levomepromazine , an antipsychotic drug used for palliative care , down from 84,565 injections last year Earlier this year , ministers pledged to replenish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shortfalls in the buffer stock compared to last year .
The Department of Health admitted that supplies of drugs including asthma inhalers , antibiotics , paracetamol and ibuprofen appeared to have run low .

Labour is claiming emergency stocks of some vital COVID-related drugs are running out ahead of a second wave of the pandemic.
Emily Thornberry, Labour's shadow international trade secretary, says the government's own figures show many drug stockpiles are at zero.
The shortages include bacterial antibiotics and high-strength painkillers, according to figures published in parliament by the health minister Ed Argar.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:18 UK's R rate remains above 1
Ms Thornberry is now calling on the government to spell out how it will replenish the supplies that are running out, either through imports or by boosting domestic capacity.
"Back in May, I asked trade ministers what they were doing to replace our stockpiles of essential medicines in case we faced another crisis in demand, and they assured me that action was being taken," she said.
"But on the basis of these new figures, our current stockpiles appear well short of the levels we had this time last year, especially in respect of vital life-saving and pain relief medicines for hospitalised COVID patients.
"On an issue as important as this, the country needs decisive and effective leadership, and rapid action to get these stockpiles back up to last year's levels."
The shortages emerged after Ms Thornberry asked a parliamentary question to the Department of Health demanding to know how current drug stockpiles compare with a year ago.
In his reply, Mr Argar said: "The government continues to hold stockpiles of medicines to cope with a range of scenarios, and robust contingency planning continues to ensure that the country is prepared for a possible second peak of COVID-19 infections.
Advertisement
"The department has recently undertaken a tender exercise to source critical COVID-19 supportive medicines and a second tender exercise is currently live.
"This is a new stockpile and we are currently in the process of awarding contracts and taking and arranging for the delivery of supplies of some of these medicines."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The emergency stockpiles are known as the Essential Medicines Buffer Stock, which was created to support the NHS in the event of a pandemic or other health emergency by making sure the supply chain is uninterrupted.
During the first wave of coronavirus, earlier this year, medicine stockpiles were high, as ministers had built them up ahead of a possible no-deal Brexit at the end of last year.
But at the height of the lockdown in April, the government was forced to import 2.8 million packs of paracetamol from India after shoppers cleared supermarket and pharmacy shelves.
Ms Thornberry claims Mr Argar's latest figures reveal Britain currently has no stockpiles of high-strength painkillers such as injectable morphine or the bacterial antibiotic doxycycline, used to treat pneumonia and COVID patients on ventilators.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:30 Coronavirus: Why are cases spiralling?
Mr Argar's figures show good supplies of adrenaline solution, magnesium sulphate, morphine sulphate, suxamethonium chloride solution and tinzaparin sodium solution.
But meropenem powder, an antibiotic used to treat bacterial side-infections, is down from 508,540 injections last year to 112,270 now.
And the following stockpiles are now down to zero:
Doxycycline antibiotic, used to treat bacterial side-infections, down from 10,510,440 capsules last year
Fentanyl opioid, down from 818,914 injections last year
Morphine opioid: down from 1,115,656 injections last year
Midazolam anaesthetic/sedative: 504,831 injections last year
Levomepromazine, an antipsychotic drug used for palliative care, down from 84,565 injections last year
Earlier this year, ministers pledged to replenish stockpiles of essential medicines after figures revealed shortfalls in the buffer stock compared to last year.
The Department of Health admitted that supplies of drugs including asthma inhalers, antibiotics, paracetamol and ibuprofen appeared to have run low.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-23--Warrington will go into Tier 3: Council leaders say deal is agreed

A deal on putting Warrington into Tier 3 has been agreed , council leaders have told Sky News .
The deal , which has not yet been confirmed by the government , includes £4.2m in financial support for businesses .
However , it has not yet been decided when the new coronavirus restrictions will come into effect across the northern town , but it could potentially be next Thursday .
Meanwhile , Sky News understands that a decision on whether Nottingham will go into Tier 3 will be made this evening .
Live updates on coronavirus from UK and around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial package for Warrington includes £1.7m for enforcement .
Warrington Borough Council confirmed the move in a statement and said it had negotiated exemptions to the Tier 3 restrictions which include leisure centres , gyms , fitness centres , beauty parlours , hairdressers and trampoline centres .
They will remain open , subject to them being COVID-secure .
However , betting shops , soft play centres and casinos will be ordered to close .
Leader of the council , Cllr Russ Bowden , said : `` As we approach winter , we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of coronavirus cases in our town .
`` This has been a difficult decision but we need to prioritise the health of our most vulnerable and elderly people , and we also need to protect hospital capacity as far as possible . ''
He added : `` Whilst we would have ideally liked a little more funding support , ultimately I think we have secured a very good package that will support our businesses and communities as we continue to do all we can to bring case numbers down . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision was `` inevitable '' given the rise in COVID-19 infections in the town .
`` The weekly case rate is 341 per 100,000 population .
More worryingly is the 195 per 100,000 in over 60s , approximately twice the level of the national average .
This equates to 717 cases in a seven-day period with test positivity currently at around 12 % , '' said the Conservative MP .
`` With infections being wide spread in the community the impact on care workers and our local NHS is also being felt , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under pressure because staff have to self-isolate too . ''
He said the action was aimed at bringing the virus spread `` back under control '' , adding it would be reviewed in 28 days .
The town , situated between Liverpool and Manchester which have already been moved into the highest coronavirus alert level , is one of a number of areas that was being considered for the toughest measures .
Talks continue between the government and the leaders of Nottingham and West Yorkshire .
Sky correspondent Enda Brady said telephone discussions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politicians from the city of Nottingham , and the wider Nottinghamshire county are ongoing .
`` The city is teetering on the brink , but no final decision has been made just yet , '' he said .
`` The speculation is that Nottingham itself will head into Tier 3 at some point next week - and they will draw a line around the city with other areas remaining in Tier 2 . ''
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on millions more people , with Greater Manchester moving into the highest alert level , Tier 3 , and Wales starts its 17-day `` firebreak '' lockdown later today at 6pm .
Coventry , Stoke and Slough will enter Tier 2 on Saturday .
On Thursday , 21,242 new cases of coronavirus were reported in the UK , along with 189 deaths among people who had tested positive in the 28 days before they died .

A deal on putting Warrington into Tier 3 has been agreed, council leaders have told Sky News.
The deal, which has not yet been confirmed by the government, includes £4.2m in financial support for businesses.
However, it has not yet been decided when the new coronavirus restrictions will come into effect across the northern town, but it could potentially be next Thursday.
Meanwhile, Sky News understands that a decision on whether Nottingham will go into Tier 3 will be made this evening.
Live updates on coronavirus from UK and around world
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:59 Warrington preparing to delay operations
Sky correspondent Ali Fortescue said the financial package for Warrington includes £1.7m for enforcement.
Warrington Borough Council confirmed the move in a statement and said it had negotiated exemptions to the Tier 3 restrictions which include leisure centres, gyms, fitness centres, beauty parlours, hairdressers and trampoline centres. They will remain open, subject to them being COVID-secure.
However, betting shops, soft play centres and casinos will be ordered to close.
Leader of the council, Cllr Russ Bowden, said: "As we approach winter, we need to take urgent action to drive down the number of coronavirus cases in our town.
Advertisement
"This has been a difficult decision but we need to prioritise the health of our most vulnerable and elderly people, and we also need to protect hospital capacity as far as possible."
He added: "Whilst we would have ideally liked a little more funding support, ultimately I think we have secured a very good package that will support our businesses and communities as we continue to do all we can to bring case numbers down."
Warrington South MP Andy Carter said the decision was "inevitable" given the rise in COVID-19 infections in the town.
"The weekly case rate is 341 per 100,000 population. More worryingly is the 195 per 100,000 in over 60s, approximately twice the level of the national average. This equates to 717 cases in a seven-day period with test positivity currently at around 12%," said the Conservative MP.
"With infections being wide spread in the community the impact on care workers and our local NHS is also being felt, ward staffing levels at the hospital are under pressure because staff have to self-isolate too."
He said the action was aimed at bringing the virus spread "back under control", adding it would be reviewed in 28 days.
The town, situated between Liverpool and Manchester which have already been moved into the highest coronavirus alert level, is one of a number of areas that was being considered for the toughest measures.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:54 Notts: 'Mystifying there are no restrictions'
Talks continue between the government and the leaders of Nottingham and West Yorkshire.
Sky correspondent Enda Brady said telephone discussions between the health minister Nadine Dorries and politicians from the city of Nottingham, and the wider Nottinghamshire county are ongoing.
"The city is teetering on the brink, but no final decision has been made just yet," he said.
"The speculation is that Nottingham itself will head into Tier 3 at some point next week - and they will draw a line around the city with other areas remaining in Tier 2."
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
It comes as new restrictions are imposed on millions more people, with Greater Manchester moving into the highest alert level, Tier 3, and Wales starts its 17-day "firebreak" lockdown later today at 6pm.
Coventry, Stoke and Slough will enter Tier 2 on Saturday.
On Thursday, 21,242 new cases of coronavirus were reported in the UK, along with 189 deaths among people who had tested positive in the 28 days before they died.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-24--PM failed to reply to 'personal' letter sent by Rashford asking for help feeding hungry children

Boris Johnson failed to reply to a `` personal '' letter sent by Marcus Rashford in which the footballer asked the prime minister to join a taskforce he created to help tackle child food poverty .
Sky News understands that the letter was sent privately in September alongside a public letter that thanked the government for the voucher scheme over the summer , which helped families struggling to put food on the table .
The private letter to Number 10 said the vouchers - which Rashford campaigned for - were only a short term solution , and went on to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feed hungry children in the long term .
Labour now says it will force another vote in the Commons if the government does not change its policy before the Christmas recess and extend free school meals during the school holidays until Easter 2021 .
A motion calling for the extension of free school meals was rejected by Tory MPs last Wednesday .
Sky 's chief political correspondent Jon Craig revealed on Saturday that Rashford had written a `` personal '' letter to the prime minister at the start of September but the footballer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester United and England star had thanked Mr Johnson `` for putting allegiance aside and taking swift action in the summer - crediting him for positively impacting millions of children 's lives across the UK '' , Craig said .
`` He said he was grateful and he said the voucher scheme was only a short term solution , and that we have to work towards implementing a long term solution , '' Craig added .
`` He shared some stories of the families he had met called for teamwork asked if he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's that letter to which he has not received a reply , according to the Rashford team . ''
In response , a government spokesperson said they were committed to making sure the most vulnerable were protected , and added that free school meals will continue during term-time .
On Saturday , Rashford tweeted to condemn the `` unacceptable abuse '' aimed at MPs and their families .
`` Everyone knows how important my mum is to me and I can not and do not condone personal attacks on females in particular , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that making sure children getting the help they need is the `` most important '' thing .
It comes after a Conservative MP who sparked anger after commenting on local businesses donating free meals to children over the half-term holiday said she regretted causing offence .
After dozens of organisations offered to help , Selaine Saxby , who is Tory MP for North Devon , posted a comment on Facebook which seemed to question the gesture .
She wrote : `` I am delighted our local businesses have bounced back so much after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food for free , and very much hope they will not be seeking any further government support . ''
Her post has since been deleted .
In a statement , Ms Saxby said her comments were `` out of context '' adding : `` I of course deeply regret any offence which may have been caused . ''
Another Tory MP , Ben Bradley , also said his words were taken `` out of context '' after a comment he made on social media seemed to imply that money from free school meal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and brothels '' .
The MP for Mansfield replied to a tweet in which another user described the free school meals programme as `` £20 cash direct to a crack den and a brothel '' , writing : `` That 's what FSM vouchers in the summer effectively did ... '' Mr Bradley later claimed he was trying to say that giving children who live in `` chaotic '' situations an `` unrestricted voucher to spend on whatever is n't helpful '' .
Labour MPs pointed out the vouchers in summer could only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked for evidence of abuse of the voucher system .

Boris Johnson failed to reply to a "personal" letter sent by Marcus Rashford in which the footballer asked the prime minister to join a taskforce he created to help tackle child food poverty.
Sky News understands that the letter was sent privately in September alongside a public letter that thanked the government for the voucher scheme over the summer, which helped families struggling to put food on the table.
The private letter to Number 10 said the vouchers - which Rashford campaigned for - were only a short term solution, and went on to call for "teamwork" to help feed hungry children in the long term.
Image: Boris Johnson apparently failed to respond to Rashford's 'personal' letter
Labour now says it will force another vote in the Commons if the government does not change its policy before the Christmas recess and extend free school meals during the school holidays until Easter 2021.
A motion calling for the extension of free school meals was rejected by Tory MPs last Wednesday.
Sky's chief political correspondent Jon Craig revealed on Saturday that Rashford had written a "personal" letter to the prime minister at the start of September but the footballer did not receive a response.
The Manchester United and England star had thanked Mr Johnson "for putting allegiance aside and taking swift action in the summer - crediting him for positively impacting millions of children's lives across the UK", Craig said.
"He said he was grateful and he said the voucher scheme was only a short term solution, and that we have to work towards implementing a long term solution," Craig added.
"He shared some stories of the families he had met called for teamwork asked if he would join the his taskforce, it's that letter to which he has not received a reply, according to the Rashford team."
Advertisement
In response, a government spokesperson said they were committed to making sure the most vulnerable were protected, and added that free school meals will continue during term-time.
On Saturday, Rashford tweeted to condemn the "unacceptable abuse" aimed at MPs and their families.
"Everyone knows how important my mum is to me and I cannot and do not condone personal attacks on females in particular," the footballer said.
He added that making sure children getting the help they need is the "most important" thing.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
It comes after a Conservative MP who sparked anger after commenting on local businesses donating free meals to children over the half-term holiday said she regretted causing offence.
After dozens of organisations offered to help, Selaine Saxby, who is Tory MP for North Devon, posted a comment on Facebook which seemed to question the gesture.
She wrote: "I am delighted our local businesses have bounced back so much after lockdown they are able to give away food for free, and very much hope they will not be seeking any further government support."
Her post has since been deleted.
In a statement, Ms Saxby said her comments were "out of context" adding: "I of course deeply regret any offence which may have been caused."
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Another Tory MP, Ben Bradley, also said his words were taken "out of context" after a comment he made on social media seemed to imply that money from free school meal vouchers ended up in "crack dens and brothels".
The MP for Mansfield replied to a tweet in which another user described the free school meals programme as "£20 cash direct to a crack den and a brothel", writing: "That's what FSM vouchers in the summer effectively did..."
Mr Bradley later claimed he was trying to say that giving children who live in "chaotic" situations an "unrestricted voucher to spend on whatever isn't helpful".
Labour MPs pointed out the vouchers in summer could only be used to buy food, and asked for evidence of abuse of the voucher system.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-24--'She should be given a well-earned break': Top Tory MP calls for Test and Trace boss to be axed

A top Tory MP and leading Boris Johnson ally is calling for Dido Harding , the beleaguered boss of NHS Test and Trace , to be axed .
Sir Bernard Jenkin , who chairs the powerful Liaison Committee of senior MPs , says Conservative peer Baroness Harding `` should be given a well-earned break '' , adding that `` the immediate priority is to fill the vacuum of leadership in Test and Trace '' .
His call comes just days after the prime minister and his chief scientific adviser publicly admitted for the first time that the system is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new opinion poll suggesting the public 's approval of the government 's handling of the coronavirus crisis has hit its lowest-ever level .
The poll suggests that half of voters , 50 % , now disapprove of the government 's handling of the pandemic , while fewer than one in three , 29 % , approve .
Sir Bernard , controversially installed by Boris Johnson as chairman of the Liaison Committee this year , calls for Baroness Harding 's removal in a hard-hitting article in The Sunday Telegraph .
`` Dido Harding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , apparently says that she is struggling with what she inherited when arriving in the role , but during the summer , initial urgency subsided , '' Sir Bernard writes .
`` Perhaps some of those exhausted leaders on the government frontline , like Dido Harding , could be given a well-earned break too ; they could use their hard-won experience to help this group reflect on the lessons learned so far . ''
Claiming the public has lost confidence in Tests and Trace , Sir Bernard calls for a military commander to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government of raising false hope about a coronavirus vaccine .
`` The challenge for the government is becoming one of public confidence , '' he writes .
`` Much incredible work is being done , but we are still a long way from the 'world-beating contact tracing system ' promised in June .
`` Announcing fresh targets ( now 500,000 tests a day by the end of October ) does not instil confidence , because people lack faith that there is a coherent plan .
`` Instead , ministers should see this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This change must be visible and decisive . ''
Listing several failings of the system , Sir Bernard complains : `` There is a spaghetti of command and control at the top , which is incapable of coherent analysis , assessment , planning and delivery .
`` The directorates suffer a high level of churn .
Data analysis has had three director-generals in five months .
Bosses do not 'own ' their staff : most are temporary appointments and hard to recruit because of a 'toxic culture ' .
`` 'People want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , MPs have been told .
This is why the government is forced to rely on thousands of consultants at vast cost . ''
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He adds : `` The immediate priority is to fill the vacuum of leadership in Test and Trace , which is destroying co-operation and compliance .
`` The Liaison Committee has called for military capability to play a greater role .
Government harnessed the military to regain control in the foot and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow that example today , by installing a single leader , a three or four star military commander with a reputation for handling complexity under stress .
`` Test and Trace should then be tasked with generating and sustaining a campaign targeted at achieving behaviour change by consent .
The result would be a better process of virus containment which commands public confidence and compliance .
`` But the government should also stop raising false hope that a single vaccine will be transformative .
It may be some time before vaccines can make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the strategy ?
`` The government should establish a high-level , strategic working group , away from the immediate pressures of the crisis .
It should produce a first draft of a white paper entitled Living with the Coronavirus . ''
Sir Bernard 's attack on Test and Trace followed the PM saying at a Downing Street news conference on Thursday : `` I share people 's frustrations and I understand totally why we do need to see faster turnaround times and we need to improve it . ''
At the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patrick Vallance said : `` It 's very clear there 's room for improvement on all of that and therefore that would be diminishing the effectiveness of this . ''
The new opinion poll , carried out by Opinium , suggests Labour now leads the Conservatives by two points , remaining on 40 % while the Tories have fallen to 38 % during their coronavirus woes .
And after Andy Burnham 's bruising clash with the government , 50 % of those living in Greater Manchester approve of the way he is handling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approval rating of +25 % is significantly higher than Mr Johnson 's nationally at -14 % .

A top Tory MP and leading Boris Johnson ally is calling for Dido Harding, the beleaguered boss of NHS Test and Trace, to be axed.
Sir Bernard Jenkin, who chairs the powerful Liaison Committee of senior MPs, told Sky's Sophy Ridge that the management of Test and Trace is bloated and muddled.
He added: "The Test and Trace capability needs to move up several gears... There is a sense that there is a lack of overall strategy that is at the heart of the problem."
Image: Baroness Harding, who is in charge of the NHS Test and Trace system, is facing calls to consider her position
But Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis dismissed the call, saying: "We want to see it (Test and Trace) improve, we want to see it grow and get better and better. That's how we fight this virus.
"But actually I think Dido and the team have done a very good job to get to where we are."
Sir Bernard wrote in The Sunday Telegraph that Conservative peer Baroness Harding "should be given a well-earned break" - adding that "the immediate priority is to fill the vacuum of leadership in Test and Trace".
His call comes just days after the prime minister and his chief scientific adviser publicly admitted for the first time that the system is not working effectively.
Test and Trace hit a record low with just 59.6% of the contacts of people who tested positive for the disease being successfully contacted and told to self-isolate. The government's own advisers say 80% need to be contacted for the system to be effective.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 Minister rejects call to sack Test and Trace head
It coincides with a new opinion poll suggesting the public's approval of the government's handling of the coronavirus crisis has hit its lowest-ever level.
Advertisement
The poll suggests that 50% now disapprove of the government's handling of the pandemic, while just 29% approve.
Sir Bernard wrote: "Dido Harding, head of NHS Test and Trace, apparently says that she is struggling with what she inherited when arriving in the role, but during the summer, initial urgency subsided."
"Perhaps some of those exhausted leaders on the government frontline, like Dido Harding, could be given a well-earned break too; they could use their hard-won experience to help this group reflect on the lessons learned so far."
Claiming the public has lost confidence in Test and Trace, Sir Bernard called for a military commander to be put in charge and also accuses the government of raising false hope about a coronavirus vaccine.
"The challenge for the government is becoming one of public confidence... Much incredible work is being done, but we are still a long way from the 'world-beating contact tracing system' promised in June.
"Announcing fresh targets (now 500,000 tests a day by the end of October) does not instil confidence, because people lack faith that there is a coherent plan.
"Instead, ministers should see this as an opportunity to make changes. This change must be visible and decisive."
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He added: "The immediate priority is to fill the vacuum of leadership in Test and Trace, which is destroying co-operation and compliance.
"The Liaison Committee has called for military capability to play a greater role. Government harnessed the military to regain control in the foot and mouth crisis; the prime minister should follow that example today, by installing a single leader, a three or four star military commander with a reputation for handling complexity under stress."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 Test and Trace has 'room for improvement'
Sir Bernard's attack on Test and Trace followed the PM saying at a Downing Street news conference on Thursday: "I share people's frustrations and I understand totally why we do need to see faster turnaround times and we need to improve it."
At the same news conference, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said: "It's very clear there's room for improvement on all of that and therefore that would be diminishing the effectiveness of this."
The new opinion poll, carried out by Opinium, suggests Labour now leads the Conservatives by two points, remaining on 40%, while the Tories have fallen to 38% during their coronavirus woes.
And after Andy Burnham's bruising clash with the government, 50% of those living in Greater Manchester approve of the way he is handling his job as mayor and his net approval rating of +25% is significantly higher than Mr Johnson's nationally at -14%.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-24--Govt has 'misunderstood the national mood' on free school meals, senior Conservative admits

A senior Tory has said the party has to `` admit we 've misunderstood the mood of the country '' over the extension of free school meals - adding that the government will probably have to `` think again '' after voting against the move .
Sir Bernard Jenkin , the Conservative chairman of the Liaison Committee , made the remarks as pressure builds on Boris Johnson to perform a U-turn on the issue .
Sir Bernard told Sky 's Sophy Ridge On Sunday : `` We have to admit we 've misunderstood the mood of the country here ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking a national lead on this , and I think the government will probably have to think again on that . ''
He added : `` I think when you 've got the chairman of the Education Select Committee not supporting the government on this , and he 's a Conservative , I think the government has to listen to the Conservative Party . ''
Sir Bernard was absent from the vote on free school meals but said he would have supported the government 's position .
However , he added if there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see what the government says and how they respond to the situation '' .
The Labour Party has threatened to bring the issue back to the House of Commons if Mr Johnson does not relent .
Anne Longfield , the children 's commissioner , told Sophy Ridge on Sunday that she thinks the government should extend the free school meals scheme .
She added : `` I 've been horrified by the debate , really disappointed about the debate over recent days .
`` We 're a wealthy country , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make sure hungry and vulnerable children should have enough to eat , is strikingly similar to what we would expect to see in chapters of Oliver Twist . ''
In relation to the possibility of the government performing a U-turn on the issue , Ms Longfield added : `` I want this government to move from something that is a possibility and a discussion to something which is real . ''
It comes as more than 2,000 paediatricians have signed a letter telling the prime minister that childhood hunger should `` transcend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northern Ireland secretary , defended the government 's position on Sophy Ridge on Sunday .
He said : `` Our policy on this is the right position because we are looking to deal with child poverty at the core . ''
Mr Lewis also said £63m was in place for local authorities to support people who are struggling .
Members of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health said : `` Few would disagree that one of our most basic human responsibilities is to ensure children have enough to eat .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ match the pledges of the Welsh and Scottish governments and the Northern Ireland Executive , to continue to provide children from low-income backgrounds with free meals over the coming weeks and to then extend this at least until the Easter school holiday , as they have done in Wales and Scotland . ''
The organisation also praised Marcus Rashford , 22 , for his `` powerful '' work on the issue .
The Manchester United footballer , who was given free school meals when he was a child , has been campaigning on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are eligible for the scheme .
His petition , which calls for various measures to end child food poverty , is closing in on 800,000 signatures .
In June , Rashford forced a government U-turn , which resulted in the meals being extended to cover the summer holidays .
But a motion calling for a further extension was rejected by Tory MPs last Wednesday .
Councils from both sides of the political spectrum joined businesses such as cafes and restaurants , many of them struggling financially due to the pandemic , in stepping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children in need .
They were encouraged by Rashford , who posted their efforts on his social media accounts .
Labour has said it will force another vote in the Commons if the government does not change its policy before the Christmas recess and extend free school meals during the school holidays until Easter 2021 .
Shadow education secretary Kate Green called on Mr Johnson to meet Rashford 's taskforce `` as a matter of urgency '' - and even some of Mr Johnson 's Conservative colleagues have said he should reconsider his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a `` no brainer '' and Tobias Ellwood said extending the meals over the holidays was a `` simple and practical vehicle '' to support families , adding that the government should `` revisit '' the issue .
Regarding the community effort to help feed vulnerable children , a Number 10 spokesman said : `` I believe the PM said during PMQs that free school meals will continue during term time and that he wants to continue to support families throughout the crisis so they have cash available to feed kids if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky 's chief political correspondent Jon Craig revealed on Saturday that Rashford had written a `` personal '' letter to the prime minister at the start of September - but the footballer did not receive a response .

A senior Tory has said the party has to "admit we've misunderstood the mood of the country" over the extension of free school meals - adding that the government will probably have to "think again" after voting against the move.
Sir Bernard Jenkin, the Conservative chairman of the Liaison Committee, made the remarks as pressure builds on Boris Johnson to perform a U-turn on the issue.
Sir Bernard told Sky's Sophy Ridge On Sunday: "We have to admit we've misunderstood the mood of the country here... the public want to see the government taking a national lead on this, and I think the government will probably have to think again on that."
He added: "I think when you've got the chairman of the Education Select Committee not supporting the government on this, and he's a Conservative, I think the government has to listen to the Conservative Party."
Image: Around 1.3 million children are eligible for free school meals
Sir Bernard was absent from the vote on free school meals but said he would have supported the government's position.
However, he added if there was another vote he would "wait to see what the government says and how they respond to the situation".
The Labour Party has threatened to bring the issue back to the House of Commons if Mr Johnson does not relent.
Anne Longfield, the children's commissioner, told Sophy Ridge on Sunday that she thinks the government should extend the free school meals scheme.
She added: "I've been horrified by the debate, really disappointed about the debate over recent days.
Advertisement
"We're a wealthy country, it's 2020, and to have a debate to make sure hungry and vulnerable children should have enough to eat, is strikingly similar to what we would expect to see in chapters of Oliver Twist."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:45 Debate over free school meals is 'horrifying'
In relation to the possibility of the government performing a U-turn on the issue, Ms Longfield added: "I want this government to move from something that is a possibility and a discussion to something which is real."
It comes as more than 2,000 paediatricians have signed a letter telling the prime minister that childhood hunger should "transcend politics".
Brandon Lewis, the Northern Ireland secretary, defended the government's position on Sophy Ridge on Sunday.
He said: "Our policy on this is the right position because we are looking to deal with child poverty at the core."
Mr Lewis also said £63m was in place for local authorities to support people who are struggling.
Members of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health said: "Few would disagree that one of our most basic human responsibilities is to ensure children have enough to eat.
"We call on the UK government to match the pledges of the Welsh and Scottish governments and the Northern Ireland Executive, to continue to provide children from low-income backgrounds with free meals over the coming weeks and to then extend this at least until the Easter school holiday, as they have done in Wales and Scotland."
The organisation also praised Marcus Rashford, 22, for his "powerful" work on the issue.
Image: Boris Johnson voted against extending the scheme
The Manchester United footballer, who was given free school meals when he was a child, has been campaigning on behalf of the 1.3 million children who are eligible for the scheme.
His petition, which calls for various measures to end child food poverty, is closing in on 800,000 signatures.
In June, Rashford forced a government U-turn, which resulted in the meals being extended to cover the summer holidays.
But a motion calling for a further extension was rejected by Tory MPs last Wednesday.
Councils from both sides of the political spectrum joined businesses such as cafes and restaurants, many of them struggling financially due to the pandemic, in stepping up with offers of free meals for children in need.
They were encouraged by Rashford, who posted their efforts on his social media accounts.
Labour has said it will force another vote in the Commons if the government does not change its policy before the Christmas recess and extend free school meals during the school holidays until Easter 2021.
Shadow education secretary Kate Green called on Mr Johnson to meet Rashford's taskforce "as a matter of urgency" - and even some of Mr Johnson's Conservative colleagues have said he should reconsider his stance.
Robert Halfon said meeting Rashford was a "no brainer" and Tobias Ellwood said extending the meals over the holidays was a "simple and practical vehicle" to support families, adding that the government should "revisit" the issue.
Regarding the community effort to help feed vulnerable children, a Number 10 spokesman said: "I believe the PM said during PMQs that free school meals will continue during term time and that he wants to continue to support families throughout the crisis so they have cash available to feed kids if they need to."
Also, Sky's chief political correspondent Jon Craig revealed on Saturday that Rashford had written a "personal" letter to the prime minister at the start of September - but the footballer did not receive a response.