skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--Govt won't undo block on migrants' access to support despite PM's vow

A senior MP has expressed his `` deep regret '' the government will not act to alleviate the `` severe hardship '' of some migrants during the coronavirus crisis - less than two weeks after Boris Johnson vowed he would `` see what we can do to help '' .
Labour 's Stephen Timms , the chair of the House of Commons work and pensions committee , told Sky News the prime minister was `` right '' to have promised to look into the issue of those whose immigration status means they are not eligible for state support .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Priti Patel on Monday confirmed the government would not be suspending rules that mean some migrants have no recourse to public funds during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Mr Timms recently challenged Mr Johnson about those who have permission to remain in the UK but are not able to access state support .
The prime minister appeared surprised that some migrants could not access welfare payments , with Mr Timms having to explain they have no recourse to public funds as a condition attached to their right to stay in the UK .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are in that position and we will see what we can do to help , '' Mr Johnson told Mr Timms on 27 May .
However , Ms Patel has now refused to suspend the no recourse to public funds rule for the duration of the coronavirus pandemic , as she argued support had been made available .
She told MPs on Monday : `` Local authorities have provided a basic safety net and that is through significant financial provisions introduced by the government and a range of measures to support those people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , because of this national health pandemic , the situation we find ourselves in , will support people with no recourse to public funds .
`` And that assistance is being given under the coronavirus retention scheme and also the self-employed income support scheme .
`` So these funds are available . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Following Ms Patel 's remarks , Mr Timms told Sky News : `` Many hard-working families , with children born in Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no recourse to public funds , and are suffering severe hardship in this crisis .
`` They can not access the Universal Credit safety net which is available to everyone else .
`` The prime minister told me at the liaison committee that people in this position 'should have support of one kind or another ' .
He is right .
`` So I deeply regret that the home secretary has announced today that the government will make no changes at all . ''
Ms Patel addressed the issue in the House of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immigration rules by acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey .
He told the home secretary she `` does n't get it '' , adding : `` People who work here , paid taxes here for years are being denied support and are falling to destitution . ''

A senior MP has expressed his "deep regret" the government will not act to alleviate the "severe hardship" of some migrants during the coronavirus crisis - less than two weeks after Boris Johnson vowed he would "see what we can do to help".
Labour's Stephen Timms, the chair of the House of Commons work and pensions committee, told Sky News the prime minister was "right" to have promised to look into the issue of those whose immigration status means they are not eligible for state support.
But he spoke of his disappointment after Home Secretary Priti Patel on Monday confirmed the government would not be suspending rules that mean some migrants have no recourse to public funds during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Image: How UK visas state someone has 'no recourse to public funds'
Mr Timms recently challenged Mr Johnson about those who have permission to remain in the UK but are not able to access state support.
The prime minister appeared surprised that some migrants could not access welfare payments, with Mr Timms having to explain they have no recourse to public funds as a condition attached to their right to stay in the UK.
"I will find out how many are in that position and we will see what we can do to help," Mr Johnson told Mr Timms on 27 May.
However, Ms Patel has now refused to suspend the no recourse to public funds rule for the duration of the coronavirus pandemic, as she argued support had been made available.
She told MPs on Monday: "Local authorities have provided a basic safety net and that is through significant financial provisions introduced by the government and a range of measures to support those people that have been working and because of coronavirus, because of this national health pandemic, the situation we find ourselves in, will support people with no recourse to public funds.
"And that assistance is being given under the coronavirus retention scheme and also the self-employed income support scheme.
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"So these funds are available."
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Following Ms Patel's remarks, Mr Timms told Sky News: "Many hard-working families, with children born in Britain, have leave to remain, but no recourse to public funds, and are suffering severe hardship in this crisis.
"They cannot access the Universal Credit safety net which is available to everyone else.
"The prime minister told me at the liaison committee that people in this position 'should have support of one kind or another'. He is right.
"So I deeply regret that the home secretary has announced today that the government will make no changes at all."
Ms Patel addressed the issue in the House of Commons after being urged to suspend the immigration rules by acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey.
He told the home secretary she "doesn't get it", adding: "People who work here, paid taxes here for years are being denied support and are falling to destitution."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--'Safe to send loved ones': Hancock says COVID-19 in care homes 'coming under control'

Matt Hancock has said it is safe to send loved ones to care homes as the COVID-19 epidemic is `` coming under control '' and the virus is `` in retreat '' .
The health secretary said there had been a 79 % fall in care home deaths from COVID-19 since the peak in the week ending 24 April , according to Care Quality Commission ( CQC ) figures .
As of the week ending 29 May , which are the latest figures available , he said there have been 12,739 deaths in care homes , making up 29.1 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Asked if he could say it is safe to send loved ones to care homes , Mr Hancock told the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing : `` Yes .
With all of the measures that we 've put in place over the past few months , all of the billions of pounds extra that we 've put in , it 's clear that the epidemic in care homes is coming under control .
`` Even those care homes where there are cases have very strong infection control procedures in place .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the proportion of people in the UK who have sadly died in care homes , it is significantly lower than in comparable countries across Europe . ''
He promised to `` continue to strengthen the measures in care homes '' .
Mr Hancock 's insistence that care homes are now safe came as the UK recorded 55 deaths in the 24 hours up to 5pm on Sunday - the country 's lowest number of daily coronavirus-related deaths since the lockdown was implemented in March .
There were also no deaths in Scotland or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considerable criticism for the number of deaths in care homes and the way in which COVID-19 was dealt with in homes for the elderly , who Mr Hancock said are 70 times more likely to die of the virus than those below 80 .
The health secretary said more than a million test kits had been sent to nearly 9,000 elderly care homes .
Mr Hancock also announced test kits will be sent to all care homes for `` working age '' people - of which there are more than 6,000 - with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care homes for the elderly .
David Pearson , chair of the newly formed COVID-19 social care support task force , said there are 1.5 million people in social care across the UK .
He said care homes for non-elderly people will also be given the personal protective equipment ( PPE ) they need and clinical advice to deal with residents and staff who test positive for COVID-19 .
Addressing what mortality rate the UK government is willing to accept to reopen the UK economy , Mr Hancock told Sky News ' political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is n't a trade-off '' If we do n't have control of this virus then the economy will suffer yet more .
`` The job of the government has been to get the rate down and hold it down whilst safely reopening the normal activities as much as is safely possible .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' That 's both on the economic front and the things that make life worth living , like being able to see your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of work .
`` It is just simplistic to say that there is a trade-off between the economy and health .
A second spike would be hugely damaging to the economy .
Of course , there are arguments over timing .
`` But , as the statistics demonstrate things are moving in the right direction , that is why we are able to say that coronavirus is in retreat and that 's why we 're able to keep taking the steps forward in the plan we 've laid out to lift some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures to take local action . ''

Matt Hancock has said it is safe to send loved ones to care homes as the COVID-19 epidemic is "coming under control" and the virus is "in retreat".
The health secretary said there had been a 79% fall in care home deaths from COVID-19 since the peak in the week ending 24 April, according to Care Quality Commission (CQC) figures.
As of the week ending 29 May, which are the latest figures available, he said there have been 12,739 deaths in care homes, making up 29.1% of all the UK's coronavirus deaths.
Image: People of 'working age' in care homes will now be sent tests
Asked if he could say it is safe to send loved ones to care homes, Mr Hancock told the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing: "Yes. With all of the measures that we've put in place over the past few months, all of the billions of pounds extra that we've put in, it's clear that the epidemic in care homes is coming under control.
"Even those care homes where there are cases have very strong infection control procedures in place.
"In fact, if you look at the proportion of people in the UK who have sadly died in care homes, it is significantly lower than in comparable countries across Europe."
He promised to "continue to strengthen the measures in care homes".
Mr Hancock's insistence that care homes are now safe came as the UK recorded 55 deaths in the 24 hours up to 5pm on Sunday - the country's lowest number of daily coronavirus-related deaths since the lockdown was implemented in March.
There were also no deaths in Scotland or London.
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Image: Matt Hancock said it is safe to send loved ones to care homes. Pic: File
The government has come under considerable criticism for the number of deaths in care homes and the way in which COVID-19 was dealt with in homes for the elderly, who Mr Hancock said are 70 times more likely to die of the virus than those below 80.
The health secretary said more than a million test kits had been sent to nearly 9,000 elderly care homes.
Mr Hancock also announced test kits will be sent to all care homes for "working age" people - of which there are more than 6,000 - with the scheme so far only applying to care homes for the elderly.
David Pearson, chair of the newly formed COVID-19 social care support task force, said there are 1.5 million people in social care across the UK.
He said care homes for non-elderly people will also be given the personal protective equipment (PPE) they need and clinical advice to deal with residents and staff who test positive for COVID-19.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 Matt Hancock tells Sky's Beth Rigby there is no trade off between the economy and coronavirus deaths.
Addressing what mortality rate the UK government is willing to accept to reopen the UK economy, Mr Hancock told Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby: "There just isn't a trade-off
"If we don't have control of this virus then the economy will suffer yet more.
"The job of the government has been to get the rate down and hold it down whilst safely reopening the normal activities as much as is safely possible.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"That's both on the economic front and the things that make life worth living, like being able to see your grandparents and that's a massive piece of work.
"It is just simplistic to say that there is a trade-off between the economy and health. A second spike would be hugely damaging to the economy. Of course, there are arguments over timing.
"But, as the statistics demonstrate things are moving in the right direction, that is why we are able to say that coronavirus is in retreat and that's why we're able to keep taking the steps forward in the plan we've laid out to lift some of the most difficult lockdown measures while increasing measures to take local action."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-09--Quarantine critics given 'private assurances' air bridges will be introduced in weeks

Travel and hospitality firms opposed to the government 's coronavirus quarantine say they have been given `` private assurances '' that air bridges will be introduced by the end of this month .
Under new rules brought in on Monday , travellers and returning Britons arriving in the UK by plane , train or ferry must self-isolate for 14 days .
There are some exceptions , including for road haulage and freight workers , medical professionals travelling to help fight coronavirus and seasonal agricultural workers .
Ministers argue the policy will help avoid a second peak of COVID-19 , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Airlines have described it as `` unlawful '' and `` ineffective '' , with three of them - British Airways , easyJet and Ryanair - beginning legal proceedings .
A number of Conservative MPs have also expressed opposition , while some of the UK 's top scientists have cast doubt on the effectiveness of a quarantine .
Air bridges would allow travellers arriving from countries where the risk of being infected with COVID-19 is deemed to be low to avoid having to self-isolate for 14 days .
An announcement from the government could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first review of the quarantine is due to take place .
A group of more than 500 businesses is urging ministers to give clarity on the measure .
The Quash Quarantine coalition includes travel firms Inghams and Travel Republic , and London hotels the Ritz and the Dorchester .
Spokesman Paul Charles said the group has `` received private assurances from senior government sources that travel corridors will be in place from 29 June '' .
He added : `` We urge the government to signal to the travel industry publicly and urgently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as amend FCO [ Foreign and Commonwealth Office ] advice on non-essential travel . ''
Mr Charles said the group was mulling whether to take its own legal action against the quarantine or join the proceedings launched by BA , but would prefer that air bridges are `` confirmed as soon as possible '' .
`` The industry needs urgent visibility on a timetable for travel to begin again , '' he said .
A government spokesperson told Sky News : `` It 's important to remember what these measures are all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a second peak of this deadly virus - and that means managing the risk of cases being imported from abroad .
`` We are exploring a range of options to increase travel , underpinned by the evidence shows is safe , including examining how international travel corridors could safely open up routes . ''

Travel and hospitality firms opposed to the government's coronavirus quarantine say they have been given "private assurances" that air bridges will be introduced by the end of this month.
Under new rules brought in on Monday, travellers and returning Britons arriving in the UK by plane, train or ferry must self-isolate for 14 days.
There are some exceptions, including for road haulage and freight workers, medical professionals travelling to help fight coronavirus and seasonal agricultural workers.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:07 UK brings in travel quarantine measures
Ministers argue the policy will help avoid a second peak of COVID-19, but it has proven to be controversial.
Airlines have described it as "unlawful" and "ineffective", with three of them - British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair - beginning legal proceedings.
A number of Conservative MPs have also expressed opposition, while some of the UK's top scientists have cast doubt on the effectiveness of a quarantine.
Air bridges would allow travellers arriving from countries where the risk of being infected with COVID-19 is deemed to be low to avoid having to self-isolate for 14 days.
An announcement from the government could come around 29 June, when the first review of the quarantine is due to take place.
A group of more than 500 businesses is urging ministers to give clarity on the measure.
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The Quash Quarantine coalition includes travel firms Inghams and Travel Republic, and London hotels the Ritz and the Dorchester.
Spokesman Paul Charles said the group has "received private assurances from senior government sources that travel corridors will be in place from 29 June".
He added: "We urge the government to signal to the travel industry publicly and urgently that this is the case, as well as amend FCO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] advice on non-essential travel."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:30 Ryanair CEO slams new quarantine measures
Mr Charles said the group was mulling whether to take its own legal action against the quarantine or join the proceedings launched by BA, but would prefer that air bridges are "confirmed as soon as possible".
"The industry needs urgent visibility on a timetable for travel to begin again," he said.
A government spokesperson told Sky News: "It's important to remember what these measures are all about - protecting public health, avoiding a second peak of this deadly virus - and that means managing the risk of cases being imported from abroad.
"We are exploring a range of options to increase travel, underpinned by the evidence shows is safe, including examining how international travel corridors could safely open up routes."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--Plans shelved for all primary pupils to be back in school before summer holidays

Plans for all pupils in England to return to primary school this term before the summer holidays are to be shelved by the government .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson is due to give an update on the situation to MPs in the Commons later .
In England , some primary schoolchildren went back last week .
Next week some secondary school children are returning .
Sky 's political correspondent Joe Pike said : `` There are signs today the government will drop their plans for all primary school children to go back to school before the end of term , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a significant change - a big hit to a lot of parents , and therefore potentially a hit to the economy .
`` The real problem seems to be the social distancing guidelines and these 'bubbles ' of 15 pupils .
So instead of having a class of 30 you could have a maximum of 15 , and one teacher for every 15 pupils , and that is very difficult for schools .
`` They now need to double the number of classes , they need to stagger arrivals , breaks and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too difficult with just the six weeks left to the term .
`` So these prescriptive rules that the Department for Education said schools had to abide by , are now going to be loosened later today . ''
Overnight , the National Association of Head Teachers ( NAHT ) said that if the plans were confirmed , it would be `` pleased to see the government will not force the impossible '' .
The body previously said returning all pupils before the end of term would present `` unsolvable practical barriers if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintained '' .
It added : `` Schools will continue to use their flexibilities intelligently to deliver the very best for all their pupils in their schools . ''
Rebecca Long-Bailey MP , shadow education secretary , also welcomed the move , if confirmed , adding the government has `` completely failed to show leadership '' .
`` For weeks headteachers , education unions , school staff and many parents have stated that the plans to open whole schools before the summer could compromise any safety measures a school had been able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
`` The government must now give answers on what resources it will provide to adequately support home learning , from the provision of digital devices to all pupils who need one through to targeted online tuition . ''
It comes as pupils and teachers are to be tested for COVID-19 in the government 's latest move to persuade parents to send children back to school .
Using voluntary swab tests , the study will assess the risk of coronavirus spreading among pre-school , primary and secondary school pupils and teachers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in up to 100 schools across England , including 15 in London , targeting around 200 staff and children at each school , with results available over the summer .
The announcement of the plan , to be outlined in a Commons statement by Mr Williamson , comes as the cabinet meets to discuss further moves to ease the lockdown .
It also comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted that all schools may not be able to reopen fully even in September .
As Mr Williamson faces MPs , he is likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have heeded the government 's advice to send their children back to primary school over the past week .
Speaking ahead of his statement on the schools testing programme , Mr Williamson said : `` We know that being in school is vital for children 's education and their well-being .
`` Last week , primary schools began to welcome back some pupils and secondary schools will begin to do the same from 15 June , as part of our phased and cautious approach to getting children and young people back into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be invaluable as we continue moving forward with those plans , and help us assess the next steps for getting all children back into schools , nurseries and colleges with their friends and teachers . ''
The government insists the test to determine whether someone currently has the virus - involving a swab of the inside of the nose and the back of the throat using a long cotton bud - is completely safe .
The antibody test to determine whether someone has had the virus and developed antibodies requires a blood sample @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood samples from children and trained medical professionals will visit schools to carry out the testing .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hancock said : `` A critical pillar of our COVID-19 testing strategy is surveillance - testing samples of the population to gain a deeper understanding of the spread of COVID-19 - especially in those who may not have symptoms .
`` This study will help us better understand how common asymptomatic and mild cases of COVID-19 are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pupils and teachers and support staff , and inform our ongoing response to this new virus . ''
The cabinet is also expected to discuss the further easing of lockdown measures : • Relaxing planning controls to allow pubs , restaurants and cafes to use outside areas Ministers are also expected to consider future amendments to the controversial quarantine rules for people arriving in the UK , introduced this week , with `` air bridges '' exempting arrivals from popular holiday destinations .
The cabinet may also discuss calls from a growing number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers - to reduce the two-metre social distancing rule to one and a half or even one metre , as it is in other European countries .

Plans for all pupils in England to return to primary school this term before the summer holidays are to be shelved by the government.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson is due to give an update on the situation to MPs in the Commons later.
In England, some primary schoolchildren went back last week. Next week some secondary school children are returning.
Sky's political correspondent Joe Pike said: "There are signs today the government will drop their plans for all primary school children to go back to school before the end of term, before the summer holidays.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:34 Schools reopen, but many children stay home
"This is a significant change - a big hit to a lot of parents, and therefore potentially a hit to the economy.
"The real problem seems to be the social distancing guidelines and these 'bubbles' of 15 pupils. So instead of having a class of 30 you could have a maximum of 15, and one teacher for every 15 pupils, and that is very difficult for schools.
"They now need to double the number of classes, they need to stagger arrivals, breaks and lunch times, and that seemingly is too difficult with just the six weeks left to the term.
"So these prescriptive rules that the Department for Education said schools had to abide by, are now going to be loosened later today."
Overnight, the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) said that if the plans were confirmed, it would be "pleased to see the government will not force the impossible".
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The body previously said returning all pupils before the end of term would present "unsolvable practical barriers if the hierarchies of control are to be maintained".
It added: "Schools will continue to use their flexibilities intelligently to deliver the very best for all their pupils in their schools."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:32 Lockdown learning exposes ‘digital divide’
Rebecca Long-Bailey MP, shadow education secretary, also welcomed the move, if confirmed, adding the government has "completely failed to show leadership".
"For weeks headteachers, education unions, school staff and many parents have stated that the plans to open whole schools before the summer could compromise any safety measures a school had been able to implement with reduced pupil numbers," she said.
"The government must now give answers on what resources it will provide to adequately support home learning, from the provision of digital devices to all pupils who need one through to targeted online tuition."
It comes as pupils and teachers are to be tested for COVID-19 in the government's latest move to persuade parents to send children back to school.
Using voluntary swab tests, the study will assess the risk of coronavirus spreading among pre-school, primary and secondary school pupils and teachers.
Tests will initially be carried out in up to 100 schools across England, including 15 in London, targeting around 200 staff and children at each school, with results available over the summer.
The announcement of the plan, to be outlined in a Commons statement by Mr Williamson, comes as the cabinet meets to discuss further moves to ease the lockdown.
It also comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted that all schools may not be able to reopen fully even in September.
As Mr Williamson faces MPs, he is likely to be challenged on how many parents have heeded the government's advice to send their children back to primary school over the past week.
Speaking ahead of his statement on the schools testing programme, Mr Williamson said: "We know that being in school is vital for children's education and their well-being.
"Last week, primary schools began to welcome back some pupils and secondary schools will begin to do the same from 15 June, as part of our phased and cautious approach to getting children and young people back into the classroom.
"Studies like this will be invaluable as we continue moving forward with those plans, and help us assess the next steps for getting all children back into schools, nurseries and colleges with their friends and teachers."
The government insists the test to determine whether someone currently has the virus - involving a swab of the inside of the nose and the back of the throat using a long cotton bud - is completely safe.
The antibody test to determine whether someone has had the virus and developed antibodies requires a blood sample.
Trained paediatric staff will take all blood samples from children and trained medical professionals will visit schools to carry out the testing.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Hancock said: "A critical pillar of our COVID-19 testing strategy is surveillance - testing samples of the population to gain a deeper understanding of the spread of COVID-19 - especially in those who may not have symptoms.
"This study will help us better understand how common asymptomatic and mild cases of COVID-19 are so that we can support parents, pupils and teachers and support staff, and inform our ongoing response to this new virus."
The cabinet is also expected to discuss the further easing of lockdown measures:
Relaxing planning controls to allow pubs, restaurants and cafes to use outside areas
Easing restrictions on weddings and funerals, including allowing outdoor weddings
Allowing driving instructors to return to work
Ministers are also expected to consider future amendments to the controversial quarantine rules for people arriving in the UK, introduced this week, with "air bridges" exempting arrivals from popular holiday destinations.
The cabinet may also discuss calls from a growing number of Tory MPs - backed by some ministers - to reduce the two-metre social distancing rule to one and a half or even one metre, as it is in other European countries.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-09--Health minister blames scientists for care home deaths - then quickly rows back

A minister said the government could pin the blame on scientific advisers for ministers ' handling of the coronavirus in care homes , before quickly rowing back .
Health minister Helen Whately was challenged over the effect of COVID-19 in adult social care during an interview with Sky News .
She told Kay Burley @ Breakfast that there was guidance for care homes `` very early '' in the coronavirus pandemic .
`` At all points in this we follow the scientific guidance as to what is the right thing to do , '' Ms Whately added .
When it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ca n't stick this on the scientists '' , she replied : `` Well , I can . ''
Challenged about the remark , Ms Whately then backtracked .
`` That 's not what I mean to say , '' she said .
`` To be clear , that is your words .
That is your words .
`` What I mean to say is we have taken the scientific advice at every stage of this process .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scientific advice and then the judgement is made about what is the right decision to take .
`` I know , because I 've been doing the job , that we 're trying to do everything we can for those in care homes because we know they 're at greater risk . ''
Ms Whately 's comment comes after a senior minister told Sky News last month that `` wrong '' advice at the start of the pandemic could have led to mistakes in the government 's response .
Downing Street later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bear responsibility for the decisions made in the response to the virus .
The government has faced criticism during the COVID-19 outbreak for its handling of care homes .
Opponents and voices in the sector have accused ministers of not doing enough to protect residents and staff .
Sky News has reported extensively on the situation in care homes throughout the pandemic .
This includes highlighting fears elderly patients were being discharged from hospital before they were well enough to return , as well as reporting a number of councils threatening to withhold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus if they did not agree to take in COVID-19 patients .
Sky News has also revealed that more than 20 care homes in the northeast of England sent a legal warning to their local council over fears of a collapse in the sector .

A minister said the government could pin the blame on scientific advisers for ministers' handling of the coronavirus in care homes, before quickly rowing back.
Health minister Helen Whately was challenged over the effect of COVID-19 in adult social care during an interview with Sky News.
She told Kay Burley@Breakfast that there was guidance for care homes "very early" in the coronavirus pandemic.
"At all points in this we follow the scientific guidance as to what is the right thing to do," Ms Whately added.
When it was put to the minister that "you can't stick this on the scientists", she replied: "Well, I can."
Challenged about the remark, Ms Whately then backtracked.
"That's not what I mean to say," she said.
"To be clear, that is your words. That is your words.
"What I mean to say is we have taken the scientific advice at every stage of this process.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"We've taken the scientific advice and then the judgement is made about what is the right decision to take.
"I know, because I've been doing the job, that we're trying to do everything we can for those in care homes because we know they're at greater risk."
Ms Whately's comment comes after a senior minister told Sky News last month that "wrong" advice at the start of the pandemic could have led to mistakes in the government's response.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 Minister explains risks of 'wrong science'
Downing Street later appeared to suggest it accepted that ministers bear responsibility for the decisions made in the response to the virus.
The government has faced criticism during the COVID-19 outbreak for its handling of care homes.
Opponents and voices in the sector have accused ministers of not doing enough to protect residents and staff.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:05 All adult care homes gain access to testing
Sky News has reported extensively on the situation in care homes throughout the pandemic.
This includes highlighting fears elderly patients were being discharged from hospital before they were well enough to return, as well as reporting a number of councils threatening to withhold funding to help care homes deal with the virus if they did not agree to take in COVID-19 patients.
Sky News has also revealed that more than 20 care homes in the northeast of England sent a legal warning to their local council over fears of a collapse in the sector.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-09--PM to announce zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas can reopen

Zoos and safari parks will be allowed to reopen next week , in the latest moves to relax coronavirus lockdown rules being announced by Boris Johnson .
Bowing to pressure from MPs , animal-lovers and conservationists - including his own father Stanley - the prime minister will declare that zoos can reopen from next Monday , 15 June .
Outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars , such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas , will also be allowed to reopen from Monday , given the low risk of coronavirus transmission .
In an expected announcement of the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily Downing Street news conference , Mr Johnson will stress that reopening will be subject to appropriate social distancing measures being in place .
And , on the advice of scientific and medical experts , indoor attractions at zoos such as reptile houses will have to remain closed and cafes will only be open for takeaway food and drinks .
`` People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike , '' a Downing Street official said ahead of the prime minister 's announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tough and where we can safely open up more attractions , and it is supported by the science , we will do so .
`` This is by necessity a careful process , but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors , while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals . ''
Mr Johnson 's announcement comes ahead of a House of Commons debate on Thursday in which MPs had planned to warn that zoos would close permanently and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unless the government allowed them to reopen .
And pleading for their reopening in The Sun newspaper this week , Mr Johnson 's father , who is president of the Gorilla Organisation , wrote : `` A good zoo not only looks after the welfare of animals , it also makes a vital contribution to conservation . ''
Chester Zoo - praised by the Health Secretary Matt Hancock last week as `` close to my heart , coming from Chester myself '' - had warned that it was `` at risk of extinction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debts of £24m .
Welcoming the prime minister 's announcement , City of Chester MP Chris Matheson told Sky News : `` It 's a real relief obviously for everyone at Chester Zoo and they are now going to put into place a plan to reopen within the next three days so that they 're ready on Monday morning .
`` They 're going to have to regulate the number of visitors who are coming in to the zoo , regulate the flows of visitors around .
`` Some of the attractions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 've got a detailed plan in place and I 'm sure that they will be able to meet the standards required .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Edward Perry , Managing Director of Knowsley Safari , told Sky News : `` Reopening safaris and zoos on 15th June is very good news , but we feel it should have been sooner .
`` Knowsley Safari has been ready for the past week to safely open to the public and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been ok for people to jump in their cars to go and get Big Macs , but not to come and see our big cats .
`` After being shut for such a long period , every day really does count in terms of ticket sales and generating much needed revenue to care for over 700 animals . ''
The announcement on zoos follows confirmation by Business Secretary Alok Sharma that non-essential shops in England will be allowed to reopen from Monday if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurants and hairdressers will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest and Mr Sharma refused to reveal when the two-metre rule on social distancing might be relaxed , simply saying it was being kept under review .

Zoos and safari parks will be allowed to reopen next week, in the latest moves to relax coronavirus lockdown rules being announced by Boris Johnson.
Bowing to pressure from MPs, animal-lovers and conservationists - including his own father Stanley - the prime minister will declare that zoos can reopen from next Monday, 15 June.
Outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars, such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas, will also be allowed to reopen from Monday, given the low risk of coronavirus transmission.
Image: MPs were ready to warn animals might have to be put down if zoos couldn't reopen
In an expected announcement of the latest easing of lockdown rules at Wednesday's daily Downing Street news conference, Mr Johnson will stress that reopening will be subject to appropriate social distancing measures being in place.
And, on the advice of scientific and medical experts, indoor attractions at zoos such as reptile houses will have to remain closed and cafes will only be open for takeaway food and drinks.
"People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike," a Downing Street official said ahead of the prime minister's announcement.
"But we know it is tough and where we can safely open up more attractions, and it is supported by the science, we will do so.
"This is by necessity a careful process, but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors, while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals."
Mr Johnson's announcement comes ahead of a House of Commons debate on Thursday in which MPs had planned to warn that zoos would close permanently and animals would have to be put down unless the government allowed them to reopen.
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And pleading for their reopening in The Sun newspaper this week, Mr Johnson's father, who is president of the Gorilla Organisation, wrote: "A good zoo not only looks after the welfare of animals, it also makes a vital contribution to conservation."
Image: Boris Johnson is expected to make the announcement at Wednesday's Downing Street news conference
Chester Zoo - praised by Health Secretary Matt Hancock last week as "close to my heart, coming from Chester myself" - had warned that it was "at risk of extinction" and could end the year with debts of £24m.
Welcoming the prime minister's announcement, City of Chester MP Chris Matheson told Sky News: "It's a real relief obviously for everyone at Chester Zoo and they are now going to put into place a plan to reopen within the next three days so that they're ready on Monday morning.
"They're going to have to regulate the number of visitors who are coming in to the zoo, regulate the flows of visitors around.
"Some of the attractions and exhibits inside will be closed, but they've got a detailed plan in place and I'm sure that they will be able to meet the standards required."
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Edward Perry, managing director of Knowsley Safari, told Sky News: "Reopening safaris and zoos on 15 June is very good news, but we feel it should have been sooner.
"Knowsley Safari has been ready for the past week to safely open to the public and we still can't understand why it's been ok for people to jump in their cars to go and get Big Macs, but not to come and see our big cats.
"After being shut for such a long period, every day really does count in terms of ticket sales and generating much needed revenue to care for over 700 animals."
The announcement on zoos follows confirmation by Business Secretary Alok Sharma that non-essential shops in England will be allowed to reopen from Monday if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures.
But pubs, restaurants and hairdressers will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest and Mr Sharma refused to reveal when the two-metre rule on social distancing might be relaxed, simply saying it was being kept under review.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-09--Pubs won't open for another month as retail is warned on lockdown easing

Pubs and hairdressers will not be able to serve customers again for at least another month , the business secretary has confirmed while warning retailers over their conduct ahead of next week 's re-opening of non-essential stores in England .
Alok Sharma said during the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing that shops found not to be following rules designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 face being issued with enforcement notices .
He told reporters : `` I can confirm today that retail outlets which have been required to be closed will be able to open their doors again from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comply with the COVID-secure guidelines we published on May 25 .
`` This is the latest step in the careful restarting of our economy and will enable high streets up and down the country to spring back to life . ''
However , the minister poured cold water on hopes of a wider reopening for consumer-focused businesses later this month when he confirmed it would be 4 July `` at the earliest '' before pubs , bars , restaurants and hairdressers could return .
There had been speculation earier in the week that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handed a lifeline of an earlier-than-planned restart because Boris Johnson was worried about the toll the virus crisis was taking on jobs The move comes as the Daily Telegraph reported that the two-metre rule has been omitted from draft guidance on reopening pubs and restaurants .
Instead , the Government proposals refer to `` wider spacing '' between customers and installing safeguarding measures , raising the prospect that officials are preparing to change the rule .
According to the paper , a draft of the guidance seen by Propel , the hospitality industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shift teams and the `` use of radios or telephones or other electronic devices when sending orders from service areas to kitchens '' .
However , no specific requirement on the distance required between tables has been stipulated in the document , which instead makes reference to `` wider spacing '' and the use of screens and barriers where appropriate .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Sharma said : `` I know there 's been a lot of speculation about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these parts of the economy and I completely understand why we 're all so keen to get them back up and running , and I absolutely share that enthusiasm .
`` But we continue to follow the road map which set out our ambition to reopen these sectors from July 4 at the earliest , '' he added .
One headache for landlords and owners is the two-metre rule for social distancing which , Mr Sharma said , was being kept under review .
He said he was to lead five new recovery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government 's work on helping the UK economy recover as the government continues financial support for businesses and wages amid the disruption .
The Treasury had earlier confirmed that almost £35bn in loans had been dished out under its three major support schemes .
It was also revealed that the number of workers furloughed under the Job Retention Scheme had hit 8.9 million people - a quarter of the UK workforce .
`` We will work shoulder to shoulder with our businesses as we get ready for our economic fightback , '' Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirm plans were afoot to make it harder for Chinese state entities to buy up large stakes in UK companies following reports a new takeover law was on the way .
The minister said , in a response to a journalist 's question : `` I think it 's important that we protect our critical assets , that is what we do through the Enterprise Act currently .
`` Of course we will look to see through the forthcoming bill , when it comes through , how we might improve upon that .
@

Pubs and hairdressers will not be able to serve customers again for at least another month, the business secretary has confirmed while warning retailers over their conduct ahead of next week's reopening of non-essential stores in England.
Alok Sharma said during the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing that shops found not to be following rules designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 face being issued with enforcement notices.
He told reporters: "I can confirm today that retail outlets which have been required to be closed will be able to open their doors again from Monday 15 June so long as they comply with the COVID-secure guidelines we published on May 25.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Business secretary: Pubs and restaurants not opening yet
"This is the latest step in the careful restarting of our economy and will enable high streets up and down the country to spring back to life."
However, the minister poured cold water on hopes of a wider reopening for consumer-focused businesses later this month when he confirmed it would be 4 July "at the earliest" before pubs, bars, restaurants and hairdressers could return.
There had been speculation earlier in the week that the hospitality sector was set to be handed a lifeline of an earlier-than-planned restart because Boris Johnson was worried about the toll the virus crisis was taking on jobs.
The move comes as the Daily Telegraph reported that the two-metre rule has been omitted from draft guidance on reopening pubs and restaurants.
Instead, the government proposals refer to "wider spacing" between customers and installing safeguarding measures, raising the prospect that officials are preparing to change the rule.
According to the paper, a draft of the guidance seen by Propel, the hospitality industry newsletter, encourages staff to split into shift teams and the "use of radios or telephones or other electronic devices when sending orders from service areas to kitchens".
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However, no specific requirement on the distance required between tables has been stipulated in the document, which instead makes reference to "wider spacing" and the use of screens and barriers where appropriate.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Mr Sharma said: "I know there's been a lot of speculation about when we might be able to reopen these parts of the economy and I completely understand why we're all so keen to get them back up and running, and I absolutely share that enthusiasm.
"But we continue to follow the road map which set out our ambition to reopen these sectors from 4 July at the earliest."
One headache for landlords and owners is the two-metre rule for social distancing which, Mr Sharma said, was being kept under review.
He said he was to lead five new recovery round tables to feed directly into the government's work on helping the UK economy recover as the government continues financial support for businesses and wages amid the disruption.
Image: M&S is among retailers planning to reopen clothing halls in England on Monday
The Treasury had earlier confirmed that almost £35bn in loans had been dished out under its three major support schemes.
It was also revealed that the number of workers furloughed under the Job Retention Scheme had hit 8.9 million people - a quarter of the UK workforce.
Image: Boris Johnson had originally said pubs would not open before 3 July
"We will work shoulder to shoulder with our businesses as we get ready for our economic fightback," Mr Sharma said.
He also appeared to confirm plans were afoot to make it harder for Chinese state entities to buy up large stakes in UK companies following reports a new takeover law was on the way.
The minister said, in a response to a journalist's question: "I think it's important that we protect our critical assets, that is what we do through the Enterprise Act currently.
"Of course we will look to see through the forthcoming bill, when it comes through, how we might improve upon that."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-10--Public loses faith as the road map out of lockdown is constantly redrawn

A woman in a mask walks past a satirical poster depicting Boris Johnson as former British prime minister Neville Chamberlain delivering his “ Peace for Our Time ” speech A nation in fear of a terrible disease , traumatised by tens of thousands of deaths but anxious too about what this lockdown would mean for their livelihoods and their future : Boris Johnson knew the scale of the task he faced when he told the public he had a `` road map '' to both `` beat the virus '' and `` re-open society '' The 50-page strategy document the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give us all clear signposting and staging on our journey towards a 'new normal ' of living with COVID-19 .
Loosening the lockdown was predicated on five tests - from protecting the NHS to seeing a sustained fall in the death rate .
At the heart of the public messaging was a commitment to keeping the reproduction number R below one and a new COVID Alert Level System to inform the speed of lockdown lifting .
And yet we find ourselves a month later easing the lockdown down against the backdrop of an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in May ( at 0.7-0.9 ) across the country , and potentially above one in the North West , according to data published by Public Health England and Cambridge university .
The COVID Alert Level is still at 4 , and yet Mr Johnson is sticking to his plan to re-open retail outlets from 15 June and the wider hospitality industry from 4 July .
Ministers point to the sustained fall in death rates and confirmed cases as evidence that the disease is in abeyance .
But there are some scientists - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potentially lifting the lockdown too early and risking a resurgence of infections as the looming economic crash comes into view .
Health secretary Matt Hancock insisted `` there just is n't a trade off '' when I put that argument to him at the daily briefing on Monday : `` If we do n't have control of this virus then the economy will suffer yet more .
It is just simplistic to say that there is a trade-off between the economy and health .
`` A second spike would be hugely damaging to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are arguments over timing .
But.. things are moving in the right direction , that is why we are able to say that coronavirus is in retreat . ''
There are those in Mr Hancock 's party who are not so sure .
One former senior minister told me this week the government is facing the `` worst of both worlds '' because it had to open up the economy to try to save jobs at a time when the infection rate was still relatively high compared with other European countries which have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Davis , the former Brexit secretary , believes the government must re-open the economy , get people back to work and try to manage the disease by effective track and trace .
`` They 're being very nervous .
They 're terrified of having a second lockdown .
Absolutely terrified .
But the truth is we need to get back to work .
`` Actually , unemployment and economic damage kills people as well , actually rather more than are dying from coronavirus , if we 're not very careful .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that does n't mean suppressing the economy .
They are not the same thing . ''
These are all difficult choices and there will be trade-offs - whether ministers admit it or not .
That the government is opening theme parks , betting shops and even pubs before schools re-admit all their pupils shows the manner in which education has been put on the back burner as the government prioritised first a health crisis and now an economic one .
And those economic considerations as well as public health ones are now driving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressing on with easing the lockdown despite the R number still hovering near one , and the COVID Alert Level still at level 4 , is evidence enough that the route map is being adjusted as we go along .
And as the road map gets re-drawn , public confidence in No 10 's ability to take them safely on this journey out of lock down is falling away .
The UK government now the joint-lowest approval rating worldwide ( alongside Mexico ) for how it has managed coronavirus , according to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson 's personal approval rating has dropped 29 points to -7 from the launch of his road map on May 10 to now .
It is perhaps a reminder to the PM and his team that if you 're trying to take people with you , be honest about the route .

Education loses out to public health and the economy as the government tries to control the crisis.
A woman in a mask walks past a satirical poster depicting Boris Johnson as former British prime minister Neville Chamberlain delivering his “Peace for Our Time” speech
A nation in fear of a terrible disease, traumatised by tens of thousands of deaths but anxious too about what this lockdown would mean for their livelihoods and their future: Boris Johnson knew the scale of the task he faced when he told the public he had a "road map" to both "beat the virus" and "re-open society"
The 50-page strategy document the government published in May was meant to give us all clear signposting and staging on our journey towards a 'new normal' of living with COVID-19.
Loosening the lockdown was predicated on five tests - from protecting the NHS to seeing a sustained fall in the death rate. At the heart of the public messaging was a commitment to keeping the reproduction number R below one and a new COVID Alert Level System to inform the speed of lockdown lifting.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 'Good and bad' news from latest coronavirus data
And yet we find ourselves a month later easing the lockdown against the backdrop of an R rate marginally worse than it was in May (at 0.7-0.9) across the country, and potentially above one in the North West, according to data published by Public Health England and Cambridge university.
The COVID Alert Level is still at 4, and yet Mr Johnson is sticking to his plan to re-open retail outlets from 15 June and the wider hospitality industry from 4 July.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Ministers point to the sustained fall in death rates and confirmed cases as evidence that the disease is in abeyance. But there are some scientists - and politicians - who worry that ministers are potentially lifting the lockdown too early and risking a resurgence of infections as the looming economic crash comes into view.
Health secretary Matt Hancock insisted "there just isn't a trade off" when I put that argument to him at the daily briefing on Monday: "If we don't have control of this virus then the economy will suffer yet more. It is just simplistic to say that there is a trade-off between the economy and health.
"A second spike would be hugely damaging to the economy. Of course, there are arguments over timing. But.. things are moving in the right direction, that is why we are able to say that coronavirus is in retreat."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:17 Plans for pupils to return to school scrapped
There are those in Mr Hancock's party who are not so sure. One former senior minister told me this week the government is facing the "worst of both worlds" because it had to open up the economy to try to save jobs at a time when the infection rate was still relatively high compared with other European countries which have been on a similar journey.
David Davis, the former Brexit secretary, believes the government must re-open the economy, get people back to work and try to manage the disease by effective track and trace.
"They're being very nervous. They're terrified of having a second lockdown. Absolutely terrified. But the truth is we need to get back to work.
"Actually, unemployment and economic damage kills people as well, actually rather more than are dying from coronavirus, if we're not very careful.
"We've got to suppress the virus, that doesn't mean suppressing the economy. They are not the same thing."
These are all difficult choices and there will be trade-offs - whether ministers admit it or not.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Pubs and restaurants not opening yet
That the government is opening theme parks, betting shops and even pubs before schools re-admit all their pupils shows the manner in which education has been put on the back burner as the government prioritised first a health crisis and now an economic one.
And those economic considerations as well as public health ones are now driving government decisions: That the government is pressing on with easing the lockdown despite the R number still hovering near one, and the COVID Alert Level still at level 4, is evidence enough that the route map is being adjusted as we go along.
And as the road map gets re-drawn, public confidence in No 10's ability to take them safely on this journey out of lock down is falling away.
The UK government now has the joint-lowest approval rating worldwide (alongside Mexico) for how it has managed coronavirus, according to a poll out this week by YouGov.
Mr Johnson's personal approval rating has dropped 29 points to -7 from the launch of his road map on May 10 to now. It is perhaps a reminder to the PM and his team that if you're trying to take people with you, be honest about the route.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-09--School reopening plan dropped as figures reveal attendance

New figures show around half of primary schools in England reopened to more children last week , as the government scrapped plans for all pupils to return before the summer holidays .
According to the Department of Education , around 659,000 children attended an education setting last Thursday , 6.9 % of all pupils who normally attend .
Around 11 % of all state nursery and primary school pupils attended education settings on Thursday - the first week that schools in England began admitting children in nursery , Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 as part of a phased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Schools have been shut in England since March because of the COVID-19 outbreak , although some remained open for vulnerable children and the children of key workers .
According to the Department for Education 's figures , 52 % of education settings that normally accept at least one of these year groups were open to more children on 4 June .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said this had risen to more than 70 % on Monday .
Kevin Courtney , joint general secretary of the National Education Union , said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long way the government has to go to convince the nation 's parents and teachers that a wider opening of schools is safe . ''
The release of the figures comes as the government confirmed it has scrapped plans for all pupils in England to return to primary school this term before the summer holidays .
Mr Williamson confirmed the news in a statement to MPs .
He promised to `` work with the sector '' and said the government would like to see schools who `` have the capacity '' to bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the summer term where possible .
Mr Williamson also said ministers were working towards bringing all children back to school by September .
He added that the safety of children and staff `` remains my top priority '' - and all staff and children will have access to a coronavirus test if they develop symptoms of the virus .
Mr Williamson told MPs the government was prepared to shut `` clusters '' of schools if new cases develop .
The announcement comes after demands from school leaders , teachers and governors for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all primary school pupils back before the summer break .
Critics of the government 's approach said a full return for primary schools would be impossible because of capacity issues , staff shortages and social distancing .
Referencing the latest DfE figures , Mr Williamson told MPs : `` We all know how important it is for children and young people to be in education and childcare and it is vital that we get them back there as soon as the scientific advice indicates that we can . ''
He added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primaries taking nursery , reception and year one or year six pupils steadily rise as part of a phased , cautious , wider reopening of schools .
`` By the end of the week more than half of primary schools were taking pupils from these year groups and as of yesterday that had risen to over 70 % of primaries that had responded . ''
The education secretary said the next step in the government 's `` phased approach '' would see secondary schools and colleges `` provide some face-to-face support from 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 16 to 19 students in the first year of a two-year study programme who are due to take key exams next year '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Shadow education secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey expressed her `` deep dismay '' with the government 's handling of reopening schools .
`` For weeks , headteachers , education unions , school staff and many parents have warned that the plans to open whole primary schools before the summer were simply impractical while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` So I welcome [ Gavin Williamson 's ] decision to roll-back from that today .
However , I must state my deep dismay at the way this has been handled .
`` If the government had brought together everyone involved in implementing these plans from the outset and really taken on board what they had to say , they would not be in the situation of having to roll back at all .
`` But what 's done is done and now it is imperative the government looks ahead to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming months and years . ''
Tory MP Roger Halfon , chair of the education select committee , said the government must help disadvantaged children or face an epidemic of educational poverty .
He called for a `` long-term plan for education for a catch-up premium to look after these left-behind children '' and for disadvantaged children to get free schools meal over the summer `` given the financial anxieties their families have to face during the current pandemic '' .

New figures show around half of primary schools in England reopened to more children last week, as the government scrapped plans for all pupils to return before the summer holidays.
According to the Department of Education, around 659,000 children attended an education setting last Thursday, 6.9% of all pupils who normally attend.
Around 11% of all state nursery and primary school pupils attended education settings on Thursday - the first week that schools in England began admitting children in nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 as part of a phased reopening as the coronavirus lockdown is eased.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:32 Headteacher reacts to govt school change
Schools have been shut in England since March because of the COVID-19 outbreak, although some remained open for vulnerable children and the children of key workers.
According to the Department for Education's figures, 52% of education settings that normally accept at least one of these year groups were open to more children on 4 June.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said this had risen to more than 70% on Monday.
Kevin Courtney, joint general secretary of the National Education Union, said: "The figures released show what a very long way the government has to go to convince the nation's parents and teachers that a wider opening of schools is safe."
The release of the figures comes as the government confirmed it has scrapped plans for all pupils in England to return to primary school this term before the summer holidays.
Mr Williamson confirmed the news in a statement to MPs.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:21 Plans shelved for all primary pupils' return
He promised to "work with the sector" and said the government would like to see schools who "have the capacity" to bring back more pupils before the end of the summer term where possible.
Mr Williamson also said ministers were working towards bringing all children back to school by September.
He added that the safety of children and staff "remains my top priority" - and all staff and children will have access to a coronavirus test if they develop symptoms of the virus.
Mr Williamson told MPs the government was prepared to shut "clusters" of schools if new cases develop.
The announcement comes after demands from school leaders, teachers and governors for the government to reconsider its plans to send all primary school pupils back before the summer break.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:34 Schools reopen, but many children stay home
Critics of the government's approach said a full return for primary schools would be impossible because of capacity issues, staff shortages and social distancing.
Referencing the latest DfE figures, Mr Williamson told MPs: "We all know how important it is for children and young people to be in education and childcare and it is vital that we get them back there as soon as the scientific advice indicates that we can."
He added: "Last week we saw the number of primaries taking nursery, reception and year one or year six pupils steadily rise as part of a phased, cautious, wider reopening of schools.
"By the end of the week more than half of primary schools were taking pupils from these year groups and as of yesterday that had risen to over 70% of primaries that had responded."
The education secretary said the next step in the government's "phased approach" would see secondary schools and colleges "provide some face-to-face support from 15 June for years 10 and years 12 and 16 to 19 students in the first year of a two-year study programme who are due to take key exams next year".
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Shadow education secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey expressed her "deep dismay" with the government's handling of reopening schools.
"For weeks, headteachers, education unions, school staff and many parents have warned that the plans to open whole primary schools before the summer were simply impractical while implementing social distancing safely," she said.
"So I welcome [Gavin Williamson's] decision to roll-back from that today. However, I must state my deep dismay at the way this has been handled.
"If the government had brought together everyone involved in implementing these plans from the outset and really taken on board what they had to say, they would not be in the situation of having to roll back at all.
"But what's done is done and now it is imperative the government looks ahead to what the education system needs over the coming months and years."
Tory MP Roger Halfon, chair of the education select committee, said the government must help disadvantaged children or face an epidemic of educational poverty.
He called for a "long-term plan for education for a catch-up premium to look after these left-behind children" and for disadvantaged children to get free schools meal over the summer "given the financial anxieties their families have to face during the current pandemic".


skynewspolitics--2020-06-09--'Structural racism' must be taken into account when dealing with BAME deaths

`` Structural racism and social inequality '' should be taken into account when looking at the impact of COVID-19 on Britain 's black , Asian and minority ethnic , according to an expert involved in a recent review .
Professor Kevin Fenton was a major part of a Public Health England ( PHE ) report - ordered by the government - into why the BAME community has been disproportionately affected by coronavirus .
It found people from BAME groups were up to twice as likely to die with COVID-19 than those from a white British background .
The review was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sources have told Sky News that these were `` held back '' by the government .
Speaking at a public meeting for Hackney Council , Prof Fenton said : `` Over the last six weeks I 've worked with over 4,000 individuals to understand what are some of the contextual issues that are driving the excess risk amongst , black , Asian and minority ethnic groups . ''
`` Social economic deprivation plays a role in vulnerable communities and those vulnerabilities can have a huge impact on how COVID becomes rooted in communities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have .
`` There are factors of risk of exposure to COVID among BAME communities , like occupational risk - if you 're a key worker like taxi driver , or bus driver or if you 're a key worker likely to be infected from COVID .
`` Some of the structural issues , like racism , discrimination , stigma , distrust , fair , these are real issues that are challenging for the communities and are seen as underpinning some of the disparities we see for COVID .
`` Any conversation about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take into consideration these things .
`` What do we do with this learning and where do we go next ?
I think of pace and impact , we are coming out of the first phase of the epidemic , we need to make sure our communities are resilient and prepared and learn the lessons for a second wave in the autumn .
`` We should be looking at how we engage with culturally competent messages , around prevention , around taking control within communities around the steps they can take to prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fenton 's analysis was sent to the government with further recommendations which were not published alongside the report last Tuesday leading to claims details had been `` held back '' by ministers .
A spokesperson from the Governments Equality Office told Sky News : `` Everything that was due to be published was published last week , the minister , Kemi Badenoch , is taking forward work to fill in some of the gaps and judge how best to tackle the various inequalities . ''

"Structural racism and social inequality" should be taken into account when looking at the impact of COVID-19 on Britain's black, Asian and minority ethnic, according to an expert involved in a recent review.
Professor Kevin Fenton was a major part of a Public Health England (PHE) report - ordered by the government - into why the BAME community has been disproportionately affected by coronavirus.
It found people from BAME groups were up to twice as likely to die with COVID-19 than those from a white British background.
The review was also meant to offer recommendations, but sources have told Sky News that these were "held back" by the government.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:13 Health Secretary Matt Hancock said coming from a non-white background was a
Speaking at a public meeting for Hackney Council, Prof Fenton said: "Over the last six weeks I've worked with over 4,000 individuals to understand what are some of the contextual issues that are driving the excess risk amongst, black, Asian and minority ethnic groups."
"Social economic deprivation plays a role in vulnerable communities and those vulnerabilities can have a huge impact on how COVID becomes rooted in communities and transmitted and the impact it can have.
"There are factors of risk of exposure to COVID among BAME communities, like occupational risk - if you're a key worker like taxi driver, or bus driver or if you're a key worker likely to be infected from COVID.
"Some of the structural issues, like racism, discrimination, stigma, distrust, fair, these are real issues that are challenging for the communities and are seen as underpinning some of the disparities we see for COVID.
"Any conversation about what we need to do, should take into consideration these things.
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"What do we do with this learning and where do we go next? I think of pace and impact, we are coming out of the first phase of the epidemic, we need to make sure our communities are resilient and prepared and learn the lessons for a second wave in the autumn.
"We should be looking at how we engage with culturally competent messages, around prevention, around taking control within communities around the steps they can take to prevent this transmission of COVID."
Prof Fenton's analysis was sent to the government with further recommendations which were not published alongside the report last Tuesday leading to claims details had been "held back" by ministers.
A spokesperson from the Governments Equality Office told Sky News: "Everything that was due to be published was published last week, the minister, Kemi Badenoch, is taking forward work to fill in some of the gaps and judge how best to tackle the various inequalities."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-09--Sir Keir Starmer takes a knee in support of Black Lives Matter movement

Sir Keir Starmer has released a photo of himself taking a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement .
The Labour leader tweeted the picture of him and deputy leader Angela Rayner kneeling on the floor of a meeting room in parliament , with the caption : `` We kneel with all those opposing anti-Black racism .
# BlackLivesMatter . ''
Labour MP Dawn Butler , former shadow women and equalities secretary , also posted a picture of her taking a knee with a group of women outside parliament , with a quote from Martin Luther King .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends of George Floyd gathered for his funeral in Houston , Texas , two weeks after his death in police custody sparked worldwide protests .
African-American Mr Floyd was killed after white officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes while arresting him in Minneapolis , Minnesota , on 25 May .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the Black Lives Matter protests at his cabinet meeting on Tuesday morning , telling them there is `` so much more to do in eradicating prejudice and creating opportunity '' .
Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PM began cabinet by discussing the anger and the grief that is not just felt in the US but around the world including the UK following the death of George Floyd .
`` He said those who lead and govern simply can not ignore the depth of emotion that has been triggered .
`` The PM said there was an undeniable feeling of injustice and that people from black and minority ethnic groups do face discrimination in education , in employment and in the application of criminal law .
`` The PM said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racist society than we were but we must also frankly acknowledge that there 's so much more to do in eradicating prejudice and creating opportunity . ''
He also reiterated that protesters who break social distancing rules or attack public property or police `` will face the full force of the law '' .
Less than 24 hours earlier , demonstrators in Bristol pulled down the statue of 17th century slave trader Edward Colston and pushed it into Bristol Harbour .
Sir Keir said it was the `` wrong '' way to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been taken down a long , long time ago '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A statement from Labour council leaders said they would `` listen to and work '' with local communities `` to review the appropriateness of local monuments and statues '' on their land .
Steve Reed , Labour 's shadow secretary of state for communities and local government , added : `` We welcome the decision by Labour councils to listen to their local communities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public land are appropriate and represent local people 's values . ''

Sir Keir Starmer has released a photo of himself taking a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
The Labour leader tweeted the picture of him and deputy leader Angela Rayner kneeling on the floor of a meeting room in parliament, with the caption: "We kneel with all those opposing anti-Black racism. #BlackLivesMatter."
Labour MP Dawn Butler, former shadow women and equalities secretary, also posted a picture of her taking a knee with a group of women outside parliament, with a quote from Martin Luther King.
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Their tweets came as the family and friends of George Floyd gathered for his funeral in Houston, Texas, two weeks after his death in police custody sparked worldwide protests.
African-American Mr Floyd was killed after white officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes while arresting him in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on 25 May.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the Black Lives Matter protests at his cabinet meeting on Tuesday morning, telling them there is "so much more to do in eradicating prejudice and creating opportunity".
Mr Johnson's official spokesman said: "The PM began cabinet by discussing the anger and the grief that is not just felt in the US but around the world including the UK following the death of George Floyd.
"He said those who lead and govern simply cannot ignore the depth of emotion that has been triggered.
"The PM said there was an undeniable feeling of injustice and that people from black and minority ethnic groups do face discrimination in education, in employment and in the application of criminal law.
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"The PM said we're a much, much less racist society than we were but we must also frankly acknowledge that there's so much more to do in eradicating prejudice and creating opportunity."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 PM 'will not support those who flout rules'
He also reiterated that protesters who break social distancing rules or attack public property or police "will face the full force of the law".
Less than 24 hours earlier, demonstrators in Bristol pulled down the statue of 17th century slave trader Edward Colston and pushed it into Bristol Harbour.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 Cheers as protesters pull down slave trader statue
Sir Keir said it was the "wrong" way to take it down but said it "should have been taken down a long, long time ago".
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A statement from Labour council leaders said they would "listen to and work" with local communities "to review the appropriateness of local monuments and statues" on their land.
Steve Reed, Labour's shadow secretary of state for communities and local government, added: "We welcome the decision by Labour councils to listen to their local communities to make sure monuments and statues on public land are appropriate and represent local people's values."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-26--Coronavirus lockdown: Which shops will open next week?

After 11 weeks of lockdown , thousands of high street shops , department stores and markets across England - as well as zoos and safari parks - can start reopening from next week .
In the latest easing of coronavirus lockdown measures , from Monday 15 June non-essential shops will be able to open their doors for the first time since 23 March .
And zoos and other outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars , such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas , will also be allowed to re-open on the same day .
However , other businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest .
Here 's how the lockdown is being eased : • Non-essential retailers , including clothes shops and indoor markets , will be allowed to re-open if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures • Zoos , safari parks and drive-in cinemas can also reopen The government says it has issued guidance for people who `` work in or run shops , branches , stores or similar environments '' .
The guidance also applies to those currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offices and chemists .
On its website , it has listed shops and branches as follows : • gift shops and retail spaces in theatres , museums , libraries , heritage sites and tourism sites Shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies have remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic , and have introduced new safety measures , such as hand sanitisers for customer and staff use , floor markings and protective screens at checkouts .
From 4 July at the earliest : • Pubs , restaurants , hairdressers , nail bars and the hospitality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next month The government says `` the risk of transmission in these environments is higher where long periods of person-to-person contact is required '' .
What has already been allowed ?
• Outdoor markets and spacious car showrooms were allowed to re-open , as the government said that , as with garden centres , the risk of catching COVID-19 is lower outside where it is generally easier to apply social distancing • Dentists have been able to resume providing face-to-face care : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are planning to re-opn have been told to consider a number of measures to reassure customers and staff , including : • Placing a poster in their windows to demonstrate awareness of the guidance • Storing returned items for 72 hours before putting them back out on the shop floor • Placing protective coverings on large items touched by the public such as beds or sofas • Frequently cleaning objects and surfaces that are touched regularly , including self-checkouts , trolleys , coffee machines and betting terminals The government has repeatedly said any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upon progress against five tests set for relaxing restrictions .
• To make sure the NHS can cope by providing sufficient critical care across the UK • To see a sustained and consistent fall in daily death rates with confidence the UK is beyond the peak • Reliable data to show the infection rate is falling to manageable levels • There is enough testing and personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to meet future demand • Any changes in restrictions would not lead to a second peak

After 11 weeks of lockdown, thousands of high street shops, department stores and markets across England - as well as zoos and safari parks - can start reopening from next week.
In the latest easing of coronavirus lockdown measures, from Monday 15 June non-essential shops will be able to open their doors for the first time since 23 March.
And zoos and other outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars, such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas, will also be allowed to reopen on the same day.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Pubs and restaurants not opening yet
However, other businesses - including pubs, restaurants and hairdressers - will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest.
Here's how the lockdown is being eased:
From 15 June:
Non-essential retailers, including clothes shops and indoor markets, will be allowed to reopen if they have completed a COVID-19 risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures
risk assessment and can implement social distancing measures Zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas can also reopen
The government says it has issued guidance for people who "work in or run shops, branches, stores or similar environments".
The guidance also applies to those currently open, such as banks, post offices and chemists.
On its website, it has listed shops and branches as follows:
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food retailers
chemists
hardware/homeware stores
fashion shops
charity shops
betting shops and arcades
tailors, dress fitters and fashion designers
car dealerships
auction houses
antique stores
retail art galleries
photography studios
gift shops and retail spaces in theatres, museums, libraries, heritage sites and tourism sites
mobile phone stores
indoor and outdoor markets
craft fairs
similar types of retail
Shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies have remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and have introduced new safety measures, such as hand sanitisers for customer and staff use, floor markings and protective screens at checkouts.
From 4 July at the earliest:
Pubs, restaurants, hairdressers, nail bars and the hospitality sector will remain shut until at least next month
The government says "the risk of transmission in these environments is higher where long periods of person-to-person contact is required".
What has already been allowed?
From 1 June:
Outdoor markets and spacious car showrooms were allowed to reopen, as the government said that, as with garden centres, the risk of catching COVID-19 is lower outside where it is generally easier to apply social distancing
From 8 June:
Dentists have been able to resume providing face-to-face care
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Shops that are planning to reopen have been told to consider a number of measures to reassure customers and staff, including:
Placing a poster in their windows to demonstrate awareness of the guidance
Storing returned items for 72 hours before putting them back out on the shop floor
Placing protective coverings on large items touched by the public such as beds or sofas
Frequently cleaning objects and surfaces that are touched regularly, including self-checkouts, trolleys, coffee machines and betting terminals
The government has repeatedly said any changes to lockdown measures will be contingent upon progress against five tests set for relaxing restrictions.
These are:
To make sure the NHS can cope by providing sufficient critical care across the UK
To see a sustained and consistent fall in daily death rates with confidence the UK is beyond the peak
Reliable data to show the infection rate is falling to manageable levels
There is enough testing and personal protective equipment (PPE) to meet future demand
Any changes in restrictions would not lead to a second peak
The picture in the other parts of the UK is mixed, with all shops allowed to open from Friday in Northern Ireland.
But no dates have been set for the reopening of non-essential shops in Scotland and Wales, although each country has set out its planned stages for lifting lockdown.
Scotland:
One other household can be met in public spaces/parks in small numbers under social distancing
Short distances can be travelled for leisure and exercise
Some workplaces will reopen
International border measures will be introduced
More staff will return to schools
More children will have access to critical childcare
Childminding and outdoor nursery provision can reopen
Outdoor workplaces will reopen with distancing measures in place, while the construction sector will also start to resume
The housing market will also begin to reopen
Drive-through food outlets and takeaways are open, but not their associated cafes
Garden centres are also back in business under social distancing rules
Unrestricted outdoor exercise is allowed if it is non-contact and distancing can be maintained
Golf, hiking, canoeing, outdoor swimming and angling are allowed in the local area
Household waste recycling centres have opened again
Many NHS services, including fertility treatment and community services, have restarted
In Wales, there will be no new guidelines until 19 June, the day after ministers must review rules, first minister Mark Drakeford said on Tuesday.
Restrictions were recently loosened to allow people to travel locally and meet individuals from another household.