skynewspolitics--2020-03-01--UK prepared to walk away from US and EU trade talks, says Truss

The UK is willing to walk away from trade talks with both the US and EU if the government does not agree with what is being offered , International Trade Secretary Liz Truss has told Sky News .
Today , ministers are setting out what they want - and do n't want - in a US-UK trade deal , with talks between the two sides to begin this month .
A 184-page document published by the Department for International Trade said a trade deal with the US could boost UK GDP in the long run by between 0.7 % to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Government analysis also states a US-UK agreement will boost trade between the countries by £15.3bn and increase UK workers ' wages by £1.8bn .
The document confirmed the NHS will `` not be on the table '' during trade talks with America , while the government wo n't be compromising on environmental protection , animal welfare and food standards .
Monday will also see the first round of trade talks between the UK and the EU 's negotiating teams in Brussels , following Britain 's exit from the bloc in January and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government has been warned it faces a `` big choice '' between following EU or US rules as it conducts the parallel trade negotiations .
But Ms Truss raised the prospect of the UK abandoning talks with either or both the EU and US should the terms of a trade deal be too stringent .
She told Sky News : `` We want a deal with the EU on Canada-style terms , if we have to trade with the EU on Australia-style terms , we will .
`` Likewise with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as soon as possible , but we 're certainly not going to sell out the NHS to get that deal .
`` That 's a very clear red line .
We 're not going to allow drugs to cost more on the NHS and we 're not going to sell out our food safety and animal welfare standards .
`` We will walk away in both cases if it is not a deal that suits the UK because one of the key reasons people voted to leave the EU was to have control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We wo n't be told what are rules and regulations are by the EU and we wo n't be told by the US what they are either . ''
Australia does not have an existing free trade deal with the EU and references to an `` Australia-style '' deal with Brussels have been described within the bloc as `` code '' for the UK leaving the Brexit transition period without a deal .
Ms Truss revealed trade talks with the US will begin at the end of this month .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks with the US , so we know roughly where the areas of agreement are , '' she added .
Negotiations will alternate between the UK and US , with the talks being overseen by Crawford Falconer , the Department for International Trade 's chief negotiator .
Government analysis also being published on Monday says the conclusion of a deal with America will see the UK economy enjoy a £3.4bn boost due to a £15.3bn increase in trade between the two countries .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said : `` We have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course , we 're going to drive a hard bargain to boost British industry .
`` Trading Scottish smoked salmon for Stetson hats , we will deliver lower prices and more choice for our shoppers .
`` Most importantly , this transatlantic trade deal will reflect the unique closeness of our two great nations . ''
Manufacturers of ceramics , cars and food and drink will be among the biggest winners from securing tariff-free access to the US market , according to the government .
Architects and lawyers are also expected to benefit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the North East and the Midlands will benefit the most from a free-trade agreement .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Trade expert David Henig , the UK director of the European Centre for International Political Economy , warned the government would face a difficult decision as it conducts parallel trade negotiations with the US and EU .
He told Sky News : `` Both the EU and US would like us to adopt their food safety rules - we ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU does n't allow certain US food in .
`` We 're going to have to make a choice there between either those two , or perhaps we 'll adopt our own and go with that .
`` That 's a big choice .
We also have to choose in various regulatory areas whether we go with an EU approach or a US approach .
`` The more we go with one against the other , the more trade barriers are in place . ''
Mr Henig added that a US trade deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making up for potential losses from a weaker EU trading relationship than the UK currently holds .
Following the publication of the US trade deal negotiating objectives , ministers will `` shortly '' set out negotiating objectives for agreements with Australia , Japan and New Zealand .
The government aims for 80 % of total UK external trade to be covered by free trade agreements by 2022. Business groups welcomed the opening of trade talks with the US .
But Barry Gardiner MP , shadow secretary of state for international trade , reiterated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could harm the NHS and lead to a weakening of UK food standards .
He said : `` This is a government that has sought , at every opportunity , to resist efforts to lock in our high standards and to ensure robust protections for our NHS .
`` Their false promises are meaningless - they have said they wo n't undercut our food standards while briefing that chlorinated chicken and hormone-fed beef are perfectly acceptable .
`` That is why there must be a full and proper scrutiny process for this and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transition period , which will end on 31 December this year , maintains the status quo of EU membership for the UK .


skynewspolitics--2020-03-02--Coronavirus: PM to reveal government plan to tackle outbreak

Boris Johnson is fighting back against criticism that he has been slow to respond to coronavirus by unveiling a government action plan to tackle the spread of the disease .
After chairing a COBRA meeting of senior ministers , he will announce a six-point plan at a Downing Street news conference alongside the chief medical officer and chief scientific adviser .
Following the COBRA meeting , Chancellor Rishi Sunak is also pledging more funds to fight the spread of COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus , and has promised a big injection of cash in next week 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's battle plan include a Cabinet Office war room , more home working and curbs on travel , bringing NHS staff out of retirement and bigger class sizes in schools .
`` It is highly likely coronavirus will spread more widely in the coming days and weeks , which is why we 're making every possible preparation , '' the prime minister said ahead of his announcement .
`` We have agreed a plan , which I will set out in detail , so if the virus should spread , we are ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and protect the most vulnerable .
`` But we can all continue to do our bit to fight this virus - by washing our hands with soap and water for the length of time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Johnson will announce that later this week a major public information campaign will be launched setting out clear steps the public can take to limit the spread of the virus , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He will also say emergency legislation will be published in the coming weeks to ensure government has all the necessary powers to prepare for and tackle the coronavirus outbreak .
And the prime minister will declare that measures already set out as part of the battle plan include : • Every government department having a designated minister to oversee the response to the global threat of the virus , for instance on schools or businesses ; • A war room set up in the Cabinet Office , bringing together communications experts and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to roll out the public information campaign ; • Coronavirus being a standing item on the weekly cabinet agenda , with the PM continuing to oversee the government approach ; • The option , should the virus spread , to encourage more home working and discourage unnecessary travel as part of a `` social distancing '' strategy that could delay the peak of the outbreak until later in the year , potentially helping combat the virus in warmer weather conditions ; • Looking at emergency registration of health professionals who have retired , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health care workers to provide care or diagnostic services and relaxation of rules around staff to pupil ratios in education and childcare settings • After being accused by Jeremy Corbyn of being a `` part-time prime minister '' Mr Johnson has in recent days visited Kettering General Hospital where he met NHS frontline staff and saw their new coronavirus pod , a special sterile cabin outside the hospital , where people can go to be checked .
• He has also visited Public Health England 's laboratory in Colindale , north London , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK where tests are carried out to confirm or rule out coronavirus , and the Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead , where he met staff treating patients with the virus .
Promising the NHS and scientists the resources they need to respond to the virus , Mr Sunak said : `` The whole of government is working closely together to tackle the spread of COVID-19 .
`` We understand that people across the country are worried , but I assure you that we are taking firm action to support your families , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which you rely .
`` We are well prepared for this global threat and , as the wider economic picture becomes clearer , we stand ready to announce further support where needed . ''

Boris Johnson is fighting back against criticism that he has been slow to respond to coronavirus by unveiling a government action plan to tackle the spread of the disease.
After chairing a COBRA meeting of senior ministers, he will announce a six-point plan at a Downing Street news conference alongside the chief medical officer and chief scientific adviser.
Following the COBRA meeting, Chancellor Rishi Sunak is also pledging more funds to fight the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, and has promised a big injection of cash in next week's budget.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:56 COVID-19 'to become more significant'
It comes as the number of confirmed cases in the UK hit 39. The latest confirmed by a school in Devon after a pupil travelled from northern Italy.
Emergency measures in the PM's plan include a Cabinet Office war room, more home working and curbs on travel, bringing NHS staff out of retirement and bigger class sizes in schools.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:18 Government to reveal its coronavirus plan
Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted some of the planned action would be "uncomfortable" but insisted the government was "quite prepared to do that if it's necessary".
However, speaking to Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast show, he said ministers hadn't yet ruled out "succeeding in containing the disease" at its current relatively low level.
Mr Hancock said the government was seeking "as targeted as an approach as possible" with the focus on elderly and vulnerable people, who are likely to see the biggest impact from the virus.
Image: Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted some measures could be 'uncomfortable'
Despite the prospect of large gatherings of people being banned - including the cancellation of sports events - as well as schools being closed, Mr Hancock said it was "important not to overreact as well as not to underreact".
Advertisement
It follows reports Britons are stockpiling food from supermarkets.
It would "not help" at the moment to cancel big gatherings or close schools where there hasn't been a positive case of coronavirus, with Mr Hancock saying the government would "follow the science" in issuing advice.
"The plan for now is really clear; which is wash your hands and if you have a cough or a sneeze to catch it, and to follow the public health advice if you travel to one of the most affected areas," the health secretary added.
"Other than that carry on your normal business."
Mr Hancock said the government was not advising people to cease shaking hands with others, as the risk was "negligible" if people wash their hands regularly.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ahead of his announcement, the prime minister said: "It is highly likely coronavirus will spread more widely in the coming days and weeks, which is why we're making every possible preparation.
"We have agreed a plan, which I will set out in detail, so if the virus should spread, we are ready to take necessary steps to contain it and protect the most vulnerable.
"But we can all continue to do our bit to fight this virus - by washing our hands with soap and water for the length of time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice."
Mr Johnson will announce that later this week a major public information campaign will be launched setting out clear steps the public can take to limit the spread of the virus, including washing hands regularly with soap and water.
He will also say emergency legislation will be published in the coming weeks to ensure government has all the necessary powers to prepare for and tackle the coronavirus outbreak.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:48 COVID-19: Who are the most vulnerable?
And the prime minister will declare that measures already set out as part of the plan include:
Every government department having a designated minister to oversee the response to the global threat of the virus, for instance on schools or businesses
A war room set up in the Cabinet Office, bringing together communications experts and scientists from across government and the NHS to roll out the public information campaign
Coronavirus being a standing item on the weekly cabinet agenda, with the PM continuing to oversee the government approach
The option, should the virus spread, to encourage more home working and discourage unnecessary travel as part of a "social distancing" strategy that could delay the peak of the outbreak until later in the year, potentially helping combat the virus in warmer weather conditions
Looking at emergency registration of health professionals who have retired, the introduction of emergency indemnity coverage for health care workers to provide care or diagnostic services and relaxation of rules around staff to pupil ratios in education and childcare settings
After being accused by Jeremy Corbyn of being a "part-time prime minister" Mr Johnson has in recent days visited Kettering General Hospital where he met NHS frontline staff and saw their new coronavirus pod, a special sterile cabin outside the hospital, where people can go to be checked
He has also visited Public Health England's laboratory in Colindale, north London, one of a number of labs across the UK where tests are carried out to confirm or rule out coronavirus, and the Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead, where he met staff treating patients with the virus
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:36 Coronavirus: Why are older people most at risk?
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 How to contain a global pandemic
Promising the NHS and scientists the resources they need to respond to the virus, Mr Sunak said: "The whole of government is working closely together to tackle the spread of COVID-19.
"We understand that people across the country are worried, but I assure you that we are taking firm action to support your families, your businesses and the public services on which you rely.
"We are well prepared for this global threat and, as the wider economic picture becomes clearer, we stand ready to announce further support where needed."
Virus Outbreak: Global Emergency - Watch a special Sky News programme on coronavirus at 6pm weekdays.


skynewspolitics--2020-03-02--Investigation into Priti Patel bullying allegations launched

An investigation into bullying allegations against Home Secretary Priti Patel will be carried out , the government has announced .
Speaking in the House of Commons , Michael Gove said the Cabinet Office has been asked by Prime Minister Boris Johnson to `` establish the facts '' about whether Ms Patel breached the ministerial code .
It comes after Sir Philip Rutnam , the Home Office 's most senior civil servant , quit and vowed to sue the government for constructive dismissal .
The official 's explosive departure from his £175,000 per year role has increased pressure on Ms Patel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within her department .
In his resignation statement , Sir Philip also said he had heard claims of Ms Patel `` shouting and swearing , belittling people , making unreasonable and repeated demands '' .
Responding to an urgent question in the Commons , Cabinet Office minister Mr Gove noted that his cabinet colleague `` absolutely rejects '' claims she breached the ministerial code .
`` The prime minister has expressed his full confidence in her and having worked closely with the home secretary over a number of years , I have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a superb minister doing a great job , '' he said .
Mr Gove continued : `` This government always takes any complaints relating to the ministerial code seriously , and in line with the process set out in the ministerial code the prime minister has asked the Cabinet Office to establish the facts .
`` As is usual , the independent adviser on ministerial interests , Sir Alex Allan , is available to provide advice to the prime minister . ''
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the Cabinet Office probe did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The government must now call in an external lawyer as quite rightly suggested by the union for senior civil servants , the First Division Association .
`` A minister in breach of the ministerial code can not remain in office and should be dismissed . ''
FDA general secretary Dave Penman , whose union represents civil servants , has written to Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwill to call for a `` rapid '' independent investigation .
Mr Penman said the Cabinet Office probe `` falls far short of the independent inquiry we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegations against Ms Patel as `` serious '' , the Labour leader said that if they were true it would `` clearly constitute a breach of the ministerial code '' .
He also questioned why the PM had given his backing to the home secretary `` without a proper investigation '' , before adding : `` This is a government led by bullies , presided over by a part-time prime minister who not only ca n't be bothered to turn up but simply wo n't take the vital action required when the very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the line . ''
Mr Johnson on Sunday described Ms Patel as a `` fantastic '' minister and stressed he `` absolutely '' has confidence in his home secretary .
Downing Street said on Monday the government treats all allegations of bullying `` seriously '' but would not comment further due to the legal action launched by Sir Philip .
Reacting to Mr Corbyn 's criticism , Mr Gove said that `` of course '' the investigation would be robust and fit for purpose .
SNP MP Joanna Cherry queried why the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inquiry , asking : `` What are they afraid of ? ''
Mr Gove said in response that there will be a `` proper and fair inquiry '' into the allegations .
Conservative MP Julian Lewis suggested that Ms Patel was a victim of sexism , asking : `` How does my right honourable friend think Margaret Thatcher would have got on if she had been subjected to the same smears and sexism as have been used against the present Iron Lady in the Home Office ? ''
Mr Gove replied : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong ministers and indeed strong prime ministers setting exacting terms but progress has also depended on having a brilliant and able civil service able to act with confidence and provide candid advice . ''
Fellow Conservative MP Mark Fletcher echoed this , telling the Commons : `` There seems to be a pattern between the appointment of female home secretaries and vicious briefings in the media against them .
`` Is it possible that some of these unelected men have a problem with taking instructions from powerful women ? ''
A third Tory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegations against Ms Patel were part of an `` establishment '' attempt to frustrate the Conservative government 's agenda .
He said : `` Is it not the case that this all started with briefings from unknown sources against the home secretary and not the other way around ?
`` My constituents of Harlow , they want to have fairer immigration , they want 20,000 ( new ) police on our streets .
Does this not have the nasty whiff of an establishment who are trying to stop these policies ? ''
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Yvette Cooper , a Labour MP and chairwoman of the Home Affairs Select Committee , asked how many bullying allegations had been made against the home secretary .
Mr Gove told the Commons it would be `` improper to comment on an `` individual personnel case '' but said every complaint would be investigated .
Hilary Benn also asked whether Downing Street had received any complaints in relation to Ms Patel 's previous jobs as international development secretary and work and pensions minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former aide to Ms Patel received a £25,000 payout after claiming she was bullied by her .
It said it had seen legal correspondence claiming the woman had taken an overdose following the alleged incident in 2015 , when the home secretary was an employment minister .
Responding to the BBC story , a spokesman for Ms Patel told Sky News : `` The home secretary completely rejects all allegations made against her . ''

An investigation into bullying allegations against Home Secretary Priti Patel will be carried out, the government has announced.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Michael Gove said the Cabinet Office has been asked by Prime Minister Boris Johnson to "establish the facts" about whether Ms Patel breached the ministerial code.
It comes after Sir Philip Rutnam, the Home Office's most senior civil servant, quit and vowed to sue the government for constructive dismissal.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 Sir Philip Rutnam's resignation statement
The official's explosive departure from his £175,000 per year role has increased pressure on Ms Patel, following weeks of reports of tensions within her department.
In his resignation statement, Sir Philip also said he had heard claims of Ms Patel "shouting and swearing, belittling people, making unreasonable and repeated demands".
Responding to an urgent question in the Commons, Cabinet Office minister Mr Gove noted that his cabinet colleague "absolutely rejects" claims she breached the ministerial code.
"The prime minister has expressed his full confidence in her and having worked closely with the home secretary over a number of years, I have the highest regard for her - she is a superb minister doing a great job," he said.
Mr Gove continued: "This government always takes any complaints relating to the ministerial code seriously, and in line with the process set out in the ministerial code the prime minister has asked the Cabinet Office to establish the facts.
"As is usual, the independent adviser on ministerial interests, Sir Alex Allan, is available to provide advice to the prime minister."
Advertisement
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the Cabinet Office probe did not go far enough.
He said: "The government must now call in an external lawyer as quite rightly suggested by the union for senior civil servants, the First Division Association.
"A minister in breach of the ministerial code cannot remain in office and should be dismissed."
Image: Jeremy Corbyn said if the allegations were true it would 'clearly constitute a breach of the ministerial code'
FDA general secretary Dave Penman, whose union represents civil servants, has written to Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwill to call for a "rapid" independent investigation.
Mr Penman said the Cabinet Office probe "falls far short of the independent inquiry we have called for".
Describing the allegations against Ms Patel as "serious", the Labour leader said that if they were true it would "clearly constitute a breach of the ministerial code".
He also questioned why the PM had given his backing to the home secretary "without a proper investigation", before adding: "This is a government led by bullies, presided over by a part-time prime minister who not only can't be bothered to turn up but simply won't take the vital action required when the very integrity and credibility of the government is on the line."
Mr Johnson on Sunday described Ms Patel as a "fantastic" minister and stressed he "absolutely" has confidence in his home secretary.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:26 PM defends home secretary over bullying claims
Downing Street said on Monday the government treats all allegations of bullying "seriously" but would not comment further due to the legal action launched by Sir Philip.
Reacting to Mr Corbyn's criticism, Mr Gove said that "of course" the investigation would be robust and fit for purpose.
SNP MP Joanna Cherry queried why the government would not agree to an independent inquiry, asking: "What are they afraid of?"
Mr Gove said in response that there will be a "proper and fair inquiry" into the allegations.
Conservative MP Julian Lewis suggested that Ms Patel was a victim of sexism, asking: "How does my right honourable friend think Margaret Thatcher would have got on if she had been subjected to the same smears and sexism as have been used against the present Iron Lady in the Home Office?"
Image: Boris Johnson has said he 'absolutely' has confidence in his home secretary
Mr Gove replied: "Progress in the past has depended on strong ministers and indeed strong prime ministers setting exacting terms but progress has also depended on having a brilliant and able civil service able to act with confidence and provide candid advice."
Fellow Conservative MP Mark Fletcher echoed this, telling the Commons: "There seems to be a pattern between the appointment of female home secretaries and vicious briefings in the media against them.
"Is it possible that some of these unelected men have a problem with taking instructions from powerful women?"
A third Tory MP, Robert Halfon, claimed the allegations against Ms Patel were part of an "establishment" attempt to frustrate the Conservative government's agenda.
He said: "Is it not the case that this all started with briefings from unknown sources against the home secretary and not the other way around?
"My constituents of Harlow, they want to have fairer immigration, they want 20,000 (new) police on our streets. Does this not have the nasty whiff of an establishment who are trying to stop these policies?"
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Yvette Cooper, a Labour MP and chairwoman of the Home Affairs Select Committee, asked how many bullying allegations had been made against the home secretary.
Mr Gove told the Commons it would be "improper to comment on an "individual personnel case" but said every complaint would be investigated.
Hilary Benn also asked whether Downing Street had received any complaints in relation to Ms Patel's previous jobs as international development secretary and work and pensions minister.
The BBC later reported that a former aide to Ms Patel received a £25,000 payout after claiming she was bullied by her.
It said it had seen legal correspondence claiming the woman had taken an overdose following the alleged incident in 2015, when the home secretary was an employment minister.
Responding to the BBC story, a spokesman for Ms Patel told Sky News: "The home secretary completely rejects all allegations made against her."


skynewspolitics--2020-03-02--UK and EU negotiators agree not to shake hands amid coronavirus outbreak

Talks between Britain and the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal have got under way in Brussels , with officials on both sides agreeing not to shake hands because of the coronavirus outbreak .
The two teams agreed to the step amid the continuing global spread of COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
Hand sanitisers and NHS advice have also been placed throughout the UK 's mission in the Belgian capital .
The number of cases in the UK has risen to 39 , while the EU has raised its risk level .
The first set of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Berlaymont headquarters - comes just over a month after Britain left the EU at the end of January .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's chief Europe negotiator David Frost was joined by the UK 's ambassador to the EU Sir Tim Barrow and a group of aides .
Mr Frost chatted and posed for photos with EU negotiator Michel Barnier ahead of the talks .
Mr Barnier said : `` We approach these negotiations in a constructive spirit .
We want to agree an ambitious and fair partnership .
`` We will respect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Frost said he was `` delighted to start talks on a constructive basis today '' with his EU counterpart .
The discussions are expected to continue until Thursday , with further rounds of talks set to take place in London later this month .
Both sides have already set out their red lines in the negotiations .
There are major differences on issues such as fishing rights , the EU 's demand for a `` level playing field '' to ensure fair competition , and the role of the European Court of Justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December .
Mr Johnson has ruled out extending the talks beyond the end of this year , with the PM saying he is prepared to walk away without a deal if it comes to it .
A meeting to take stock is scheduled for June , by which point it should be clear if Mr Johnson 's preferred Canada-style deal is possible .
It is the UK 's position that the `` broad outline '' of any deal should be apparent by then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September .
If not , its negotiating mandate says `` the government will need to decide whether the UK 's attention should move away from negotiations and focus solely on continuing domestic preparations to exit the transition period in an orderly fashion '' .

Talks between Britain and the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal have got under way in Brussels, with officials on both sides agreeing not to shake hands because of the coronavirus outbreak.
The two teams agreed to the step amid the continuing global spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
Hand sanitisers and NHS advice have also been placed throughout the UK's mission in the Belgian capital.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:56 COVID-19 'to become more significant'
The number of cases in the UK has risen to 39, while the EU has raised its risk level.
The first set of negotiations - at the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters - comes just over a month after Britain left the EU at the end of January.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson's chief Europe negotiator David Frost was joined by the UK's ambassador to the EU Sir Tim Barrow and a group of aides.
Mr Frost chatted and posed for photos with EU negotiator Michel Barnier ahead of the talks.
Mr Barnier said: "We approach these negotiations in a constructive spirit. We want to agree an ambitious and fair partnership.
"We will respect our prior joint commitments."
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:46 UK prepared to ditch EU trade talks in June
Mr Frost said he was "delighted to start talks on a constructive basis today" with his EU counterpart.
The discussions are expected to continue until Thursday, with further rounds of talks set to take place in London later this month.
Both sides have already set out their red lines in the negotiations.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:27 Gove: Fishing waters a 'sovereign resource'
There are major differences on issues such as fishing rights, the EU's demand for a "level playing field" to ensure fair competition, and the role of the European Court of Justice.
The deadline for a deal is currently the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December.
Mr Johnson has ruled out extending the talks beyond the end of this year, with the PM saying he is prepared to walk away without a deal if it comes to it.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:48 EU ministers agree UK trade talks mandate
A meeting to take stock is scheduled for June, by which point it should be clear if Mr Johnson's preferred Canada-style deal is possible.
It is the UK's position that the "broad outline" of any deal should be apparent by then, which could then be finalised by September.
If not, its negotiating mandate says "the government will need to decide whether the UK's attention should move away from negotiations and focus solely on continuing domestic preparations to exit the transition period in an orderly fashion".


skynewspolitics--2020-03-02--Welfare claimants affected by coronavirus urged to contact job centres

Universal Credit claimants who might not be able to work or attend inteviews due to the spread of coronavirus are being urged to contact job centres to ensure they do n't face sanctions .
The new welfare system requires most claimants to fulfil a set number of hours of paid work or job hunting in order to receive the monthly financial support .
There are concerns some claimants could have their payout docked if they fail to properly notify job centres about being unable to work due to restrictions on public transport , or having to look after a child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ related to the coronavirus spread .
It is understood job centres are already dealing with cases in which claimants are unable to fulfil work requirements as a result of the impact of COVID-19 , the disease that develops from coronavirus .
Charities are already urging the government to take all steps necessary to ensure Universal Credit is `` flexible enough to accommodate situations like this '' .
A Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) spokesperson said : `` Our staff are ready to support people if they are affected - we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or their Work Coach via their online journal , to explain their situation .
`` Anyone not eligible to receive sick pay is able to claim Universal Credit and/or contributory Employment and Support Allowance . ''
Sky News has obtained a copy of the crib sheet sent to job centres by DWP to assist work coaches dealing with questions about coronavirus .
If a claimant were to say they did not want to attend a meeting with a work coach due to feeling ill with flu-like symptoms , the advice states `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arrangements '' .
It goes on to say : `` If a customer is unable to attend the job centre because they are unwell , the normal arrangements , for example , around excusing signing , should apply . ''
The document also advises that a claimant 's concerns about interacting with other people would not be sufficient grounds for missing an appointment at a job centre and could result in benefits being cut as a result of a sanction .
`` There has been no change to the normal arrangements , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a customer does not attend a scheduled meeting , for example , the normal 'failed to attend ' arrangements will apply . ''
The normal process for a claimant registering an illness which prevents them fulfilling their work requirement is for them to either provide a doctor 's letter to the job centre , or to submit a note to their work coach online via the Universal Credit portal .
In the event an individual is required to self-isolate as a precautionary measure they would be eligible for exemption from work requirements on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specific reference in the DWP 's crib sheet to job centres regarding what to tell claimants who are not ill , but are unable to work due to having to look after children due to school closures or recommendations against using public transport .
However , if a claimant 's working hours were to drop as a result of the impact of coronavirus the system 's design means their payment the following month should increase assuming they meet eligibility criteria .
Individuals who are not currently Universal Credit claimants , but who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their employers , may also be eligible to start a new claim .
Helen Barnard , deputy director of policy and partnerships at the independent Joseph Rowntree Foundation , said : `` The ongoing impact of coronavirus highlights the need for a social security system that is flexible to people 's needs .
`` It 's just not right that anyone who falls ill and is not eligible to receive sick pay must wait up to five weeks for their first Universal Credit payment .
`` As a society that values compassion and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ principles underpin the design and delivery of Universal Credit by making it flexible enough to accommodate situations like this - that means ending the five-week wait .
`` Any claimants affected by the coronavirus should not be penalised for doing the right thing and self-isolating if they are required to do so . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Labour 's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said : `` If you 've been asked to self isolate and you 're on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours contract or temporary work , then you 're literally being asked to make a choice between your health or financial hardship .
`` The government need to make is easier to access statutory sick pay .
`` And also to get sick pay you need a note from your doctor yet people are advised not to visit their doctor .
So things like this urgently need to be looked at by the government . ''
Chair of the Work and Pensions Select Committee Stephen Timms said : `` These are exceptional circumstances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Jobcentres must allow people enough flexibility to follow the Government 's own public health guidance .
`` Otherwise , people at risk of a sanction - as well as people in low paid and precarious jobs - could be forced into putting themselves , and others , at risk . ''
Earlier , Downing Street said the government was `` aware of the issues '' related to the potential impact of coronavirus mitigation measures on low income workers .
Asked if the government would consider modifying statutory sick pay terms , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the need for a GP sick note , the prime minister 's official spokesman said : `` We are prepared to take all reasonable steps . ''

Universal Credit claimants who might not be able to work or attend inteviews due to the spread of coronavirus are being urged to contact job centres to ensure they don't face sanctions.
The new welfare system requires most claimants to fulfil a set number of hours of paid work or job hunting in order to receive the monthly financial support.
There are concerns some claimants could have their payout docked if they fail to properly notify job centres about being unable to work due to restrictions on public transport, or having to look after a child in the event of a school closure related to the coronavirus spread.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 13:31 Coronavirus: How worried should we be?
It is understood job centres are already dealing with cases in which claimants are unable to fulfil work requirements as a result of the impact of COVID-19, the disease that develops from coronavirus.
Charities are already urging the government to take all steps necessary to ensure Universal Credit is "flexible enough to accommodate situations like this".
A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson said: "Our staff are ready to support people if they are affected - we urge them to contact us by phone, or their Work Coach via their online journal, to explain their situation.
"Anyone not eligible to receive sick pay is able to claim Universal Credit and/or contributory Employment and Support Allowance."
Sky News has obtained a copy of the crib sheet sent to job centres by DWP to assist work coaches dealing with questions about coronavirus.
If a claimant were to say they did not want to attend a meeting with a work coach due to feeling ill with flu-like symptoms, the advice states "there is no change to the normal arrangements".
Advertisement
It goes on to say: "If a customer is unable to attend the job centre because they are unwell, the normal arrangements, for example, around excusing signing, should apply."
The document also advises that a claimant's concerns about interacting with other people would not be sufficient grounds for missing an appointment at a job centre and could result in benefits being cut as a result of a sanction.
Image: A copy of the crib sheet sent to job centres by DWP
"There has been no change to the normal arrangements," the DWP advice states.
"If a customer does not attend a scheduled meeting, for example, the normal 'failed to attend' arrangements will apply."
The normal process for a claimant registering an illness which prevents them fulfilling their work requirement is for them to either provide a doctor's letter to the job centre, or to submit a note to their work coach online via the Universal Credit portal.
In the event an individual is required to self-isolate as a precautionary measure they would be eligible for exemption from work requirements on public health grounds.
There is no specific reference in the DWP's crib sheet to job centres regarding what to tell claimants who are not ill, but are unable to work due to having to look after children due to school closures or recommendations against using public transport.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:56 COVID-19 'to become more significant'
However, if a claimant's working hours were to drop as a result of the impact of coronavirus the system's design means their payment the following month should increase assuming they meet eligibility criteria.
Individuals who are not currently Universal Credit claimants, but who are unable to access sufficient sick pay from their employers, may also be eligible to start a new claim.
Helen Barnard, deputy director of policy and partnerships at the independent Joseph Rowntree Foundation, said: "The ongoing impact of coronavirus highlights the need for a social security system that is flexible to people's needs.
"It's just not right that anyone who falls ill and is not eligible to receive sick pay must wait up to five weeks for their first Universal Credit payment.
"As a society that values compassion and justice, we must ensure that these principles underpin the design and delivery of Universal Credit by making it flexible enough to accommodate situations like this - that means ending the five-week wait.
"Any claimants affected by the coronavirus should not be penalised for doing the right thing and self-isolating if they are required to do so."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said: "If you've been asked to self isolate and you're on low pay, or on a zero hours contract or temporary work, then you're literally being asked to make a choice between your health or financial hardship.
"The government need to make is easier to access statutory sick pay.
"And also to get sick pay you need a note from your doctor yet people are advised not to visit their doctor. So things like this urgently need to be looked at by the government."
Chair of the Work and Pensions Select Committee Stephen Timms said: "These are exceptional circumstances and demand an exceptional response from DWP.
"Jobcentres must allow people enough flexibility to follow the Government's own public health guidance.
"Otherwise, people at risk of a sanction - as well as people in low paid and precarious jobs - could be forced into putting themselves, and others, at risk."
Earlier, Downing Street said the government was "aware of the issues" related to the potential impact of coronavirus mitigation measures on low income workers.
Asked if the government would consider modifying statutory sick pay terms, or making recommendations to employers to waive the need for a GP sick note, the prime minister's official spokesman said: "We are prepared to take all reasonable steps."


skynewspolitics--2020-03-02--Zaghari-Ratcliffe yet to be tested for coronavirus - husband

Jailed British-Iranian mother Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has yet to be tested for coronavirus , despite showing symptoms of the illness , her husband has said .
Richard Ratcliffe said the Iranian ministry of foreign affairs had told the Foreign Office ( FCO ) that his wife had been tested and confirmed negative for COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
But Mr Ratcliffe said she had confirmed this had not happened and he had told the FCO about this .
He hit out at a government minister over his `` disingenuous '' update to MPs on Monday .
Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I think things may have moved on a little bit today in terms of the testing with Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe .
`` Clearly we are unable to comment on any medical assessments without the permission of Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe . ''
Mr Adams said the government had been in touch with Mr Ratcliffe , who was in the public gallery with their daughter Gabriella , and was in `` close contact '' with Tehran to lobby for a `` temporary release on medical grounds '' .
But speaking afterwards to the Press Association @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adams ' words as `` disingenuous '' .
`` It is irresponsible of the minister to hint at something he knows not to be true , '' he said , referring to comments from Mr Adams on the testing .
The comments from the minister came during an urgent question asked by Labour 's Tulip Siddiq .
She said Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe 's life `` hangs in the balance '' and called on the government to act urgently to help her .
Mr Adams reiterated that she should be released and outlined the humanitarian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respond to the outbreak of COVID-19 .
Jeremy Hunt , the former foreign secretary , said the situation demonstrated the `` moral bankruptcy of Iran 's position '' , with a British citizen being held `` hostage '' in a prison where she is `` subject to catching potentially a very dangerous disease '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He asked if Boris Johnson or Dominic Raab , his successor as foreign secretary , had been in contact with Iran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be tested alongside other dual nationals .
`` It is absolutely essential , if they have not , that they start to do that , '' Mr Hunt added .
Mr Adams said in response : `` We have been engaging in fact today with the deputy foreign minister and I can assure him that our ambassador is working on behalf of all our dual nationals in that country . ''
There are currently no confirmed cases at the Iranian prison where Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe is being held .
But the virus has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost 1,000 people and killing 54 .
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was arrested at Tehran 's Imam Khomeini airport while travelling to introduce Gabriella to her parents in 2016 .
She was sentenced to five years in jail over claims of plotting to overthrow Iran 's government , which she denies .
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was later given diplomatic protection by the British government , which argues that Iran has failed to meet its obligations under international law .

Jailed British-Iranian mother Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has yet to be tested for coronavirus, despite showing symptoms of the illness, her husband has said.
Richard Ratcliffe said the Iranian ministry of foreign affairs had told the Foreign Office (FCO) that his wife had been tested and confirmed negative for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
But Mr Ratcliffe said she had confirmed this had not happened and he had told the FCO about this.
Image: Richard Ratcliffe, with his five-year-old daughter Gabriella Zaghari-Ratcliffe
He hit out at a government minister over his "disingenuous" update to MPs on Monday.
Foreign Office minister Nigel Adams told the Commons: "I think things may have moved on a little bit today in terms of the testing with Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.
"Clearly we are unable to comment on any medical assessments without the permission of Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe."
Mr Adams said the government had been in touch with Mr Ratcliffe, who was in the public gallery with their daughter Gabriella, and was in "close contact" with Tehran to lobby for a "temporary release on medical grounds".
But speaking afterwards to the Press Association, Mr Ratcliffe said he viewed Mr Adams' words as "disingenuous".
"It is irresponsible of the minister to hint at something he knows not to be true," he said, referring to comments from Mr Adams on the testing.
Advertisement
The comments from the minister came during an urgent question asked by Labour's Tulip Siddiq.
She said Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe's life "hangs in the balance" and called on the government to act urgently to help her.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:56 Iran prison 'won't test Nazanin for coronavirus'
Mr Adams reiterated that she should be released and outlined the humanitarian support Britain has given to Iran to respond to the outbreak of COVID-19.
Jeremy Hunt, the former foreign secretary, said the situation demonstrated the "moral bankruptcy of Iran's position", with a British citizen being held "hostage" in a prison where she is "subject to catching potentially a very dangerous disease".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He asked if Boris Johnson or Dominic Raab, his successor as foreign secretary, had been in contact with Iran's president to call for Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe to be tested alongside other dual nationals.
"It is absolutely essential, if they have not, that they start to do that," Mr Hunt added.
Mr Adams said in response: "We have been engaging in fact today with the deputy foreign minister and I can assure him that our ambassador is working on behalf of all our dual nationals in that country."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 Iranian minister with COVID-19 sweats on stage
There are currently no confirmed cases at the Iranian prison where Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe is being held.
But the virus has spread rapidly across the country, infecting almost 1,000 people and killing 54.
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was arrested at Tehran's Imam Khomeini airport while travelling to introduce Gabriella to her parents in 2016.
She was sentenced to five years in jail over claims of plotting to overthrow Iran's government, which she denies.
Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was later given diplomatic protection by the British government, which argues that Iran has failed to meet its obligations under international law.


skynewspolitics--2020-03-02--Tories suspend fresh batch of party members over Islamophobia claims

The Conservatives have suspended up to 23 party members following allegations of Islamophobia .
The action was prompted by anti-racism group Hope Not Hate compiling a dossier on the social media messages of serving Tory councillors , ex-councillors , activists and a donor .
• A former councillor claimed that `` Moslems [ sic ] do not deserve 'Human Rights ' as we understand them , partly because of their animal-like behaviour , and partly because they reject our Western value system '' .
They added : `` ... it is now time to deploy the machine guns '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the death of a Muslim shopkeeper : `` 1down , 1.6 million to go '' .
In another post , they said : `` Muslims go away back to pakistan or from where ever you came from u are NOT in a muslim country and are NOT wanted here '' .
• A local councillor claimed there was a `` dangerous Muslim agenda for world domination in the name of Allah '' ; as well as stating : `` Wake up Britain or it will be too late we will ALL be Muslim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who stated it would not be a `` bad thing '' if Muslims left the UK .
• Following the election of US President Donald Trump , a councillor posted : `` Congratulations America !
!
The wall is coming up !
Muslims not allowed in and Hispanic and illegal immigrants sent home ! ''
• A former council candidate who said they were `` disturbed by the fecund Islamic population '' .
• A donor to a Conservative MP who called for `` Lynch mobs in South Manchester '' in the wake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tories did not immediately confirm how many of the 23 people detailed in the dossier had been suspended , or how many were serving councillors .
However , sources said that not all of the names provided were party members .
Those who have been suspended could be sanctioned by Tory officials , which could include being told to undertake training or expulsion from the party .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A Conservative Party spokesperson said : `` All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been suspended immediately , pending investigation .
`` The swift action we take on not just anti-Muslim discrimination , but discrimination of any kind is testament to the seriousness with which we take such issues . ''
Hope Not Hate claimed the Tories have a `` problem with anti-Muslim prejudice '' .
`` They are not acting as swiftly , or as forcefully , as they need to , and their approach lacks the transparency required to give people trust that they are taking the issue seriously enough , '' said the group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Muslim Council of Britain also accused the Tories of having an `` institutional problem of Islamophobia '' .
A spokesman said : `` This latest evidence only adds to the wealth of examples we have seen in recent months , most of which have been met with indifference and inaction .
`` Unlike those cases , it is welcome that action has been taken in these cases , but the suspensions must be properly followed through with appropriate sanctions where necessary , and transparency over who is readmitted into the party and why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party , we can not be hopeful .
For too long , the Conservative Party has taken an inconsistent and inadequate approach towards tackling Islamophobia . ''
The Conservatives are holding an independent review into all forms of discrimination and prejudice following a pledge by all candidates in last year 's leadership contest to investigate allegations of Islamophobia .
It followed a number of instances of party members being suspended .
Tory MP and former government minister Nus Ghani , the first Muslim woman to speak at the House of Commons despatch box @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged Downing Street to speed up the work of the inquiry .
`` I 've got full confidence the prime minister and the new chairman will continue to undertake this inquiry , '' she told Sky News .
`` I had a meeting with Number 10 just a few weeks ago to say 'look , we need to crack on with this and get it done ' . ''

The Conservatives have suspended up to 23 party members following allegations of Islamophobia.
The action was prompted by anti-racism group Hope Not Hate compiling a dossier on the social media messages of serving Tory councillors, ex-councillors, activists and a donor.
They found:
A former councillor claimed that "Moslems [sic] do not deserve 'Human Rights' as we understand them, partly because of their animal-like behaviour, and partly because they reject our Western value system". They added: "... it is now time to deploy the machine guns".
A former council candidate commented on the death of a Muslim shopkeeper: "1down, 1.6 million to go". In another post, they said: "Muslims go away back to pakistan or from where ever you came from u are NOT in a muslim country and are NOT wanted here".
A local councillor claimed there was a "dangerous Muslim agenda for world domination in the name of Allah"; as well as stating: "Wake up Britain or it will be too late we will ALL be Muslim!"
A former council candidate who stated it would not be a "bad thing" if Muslims left the UK.
Following the election of US President Donald Trump, a councillor posted: "Congratulations America!! The wall is coming up! Muslims not allowed in and Hispanic and illegal immigrants sent home!"
A former council candidate who said they were "disturbed by the fecund Islamic population".
A donor to a Conservative MP who called for "Lynch mobs in South Manchester" in the wake of the Manchester Arena bombing.
The Tories did not immediately confirm how many of the 23 people detailed in the dossier had been suspended, or how many were serving councillors.
However, sources said that not all of the names provided were party members.
Those who have been suspended could be sanctioned by Tory officials, which could include being told to undertake training or expulsion from the party.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
A Conservative Party spokesperson said: "All those found to be party members have been suspended immediately, pending investigation.
"The swift action we take on not just anti-Muslim discrimination, but discrimination of any kind is testament to the seriousness with which we take such issues."
Advertisement
Hope Not Hate claimed the Tories have a "problem with anti-Muslim prejudice".
"They are not acting as swiftly, or as forcefully, as they need to, and their approach lacks the transparency required to give people trust that they are taking the issue seriously enough," said the group's campaign director Matthew McGregor.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 57:16 In full: Sophy Ridge On Sunday
The Muslim Council of Britain also accused the Tories of having an "institutional problem of Islamophobia".
A spokesman said: "This latest evidence only adds to the wealth of examples we have seen in recent months, most of which have been met with indifference and inaction.
"Unlike those cases, it is welcome that action has been taken in these cases, but the suspensions must be properly followed through with appropriate sanctions where necessary, and transparency over who is readmitted into the party and why.
"Given the history of the party, we cannot be hopeful. For too long, the Conservative Party has taken an inconsistent and inadequate approach towards tackling Islamophobia."
The Conservatives are holding an independent review into all forms of discrimination and prejudice following a pledge by all candidates in last year's leadership contest to investigate allegations of Islamophobia.
It followed a number of instances of party members being suspended.
Tory MP and former government minister Nus Ghani, the first Muslim woman to speak at the House of Commons despatch box, revealed on Sunday she had recently urged Downing Street to speed up the work of the inquiry.
"I've got full confidence the prime minister and the new chairman will continue to undertake this inquiry," she told Sky News.
"I had a meeting with Number 10 just a few weeks ago to say 'look, we need to crack on with this and get it done'."


skynewspolitics--2020-03-02--Johnson's Tussauds waxwork gets baby carrier

Boris Johnson 's waxwork at Madame Tussauds has been fitted with a baby carrier after the news his fiancee is @ @ @ @ @ temporary adornment to the prime minister 's model features a baby strapped to his chest @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson and Carrie Symonds announced their engagement and news of their first baby together @ @ @ @ @ arrival is due in early summer , according to a social media post by Ms @ @ @ @ @ to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Steve @ @ @ @ @ Madame Tussauds in London , said the gesture was meant to congratulate Mr Johnson and @ @ @ @ @ his new arrival '' .
`` We are sure that , even though he holds @ @ @ @ @ country , he 'll find time for fatherly duties , '' he said .

Boris Johnson's waxwork at Madame Tussauds has been fitted with a baby carrier after the news his fiancee is having a baby.
The temporary adornment to the prime minister's model features a baby strapped to his chest in a Tussauds-branded carrier.
Mr Johnson and Carrie Symonds announced their engagement and news of their first baby together last week.
Image: A post by Carrie Symonds on Instagram reveals they got engaged at the end of last year
The new arrival is due in early summer, according to a social media post by Ms Symonds.
:: Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Steve Davies, the boss at Madame Tussauds in London, said the gesture was meant to congratulate Mr Johnson and "help him prepare for his new arrival".
"We are sure that, even though he holds the top job in the country, he'll find time for fatherly duties," he said.


skynewspolitics--2020-03-03--Schools, stockpiling and holiday: The PM's plan to tackle coronavirus

Police could be reduced to just dealing with very serious crimes and maintaining public order , while the NHS could be closed to all but critical care , as part of the government 's coronavirus plans .
Under ministers ' action plan to deal with a mass outbreak of COVID-19 , the disease caused by coronavirus , it has been revealed emergency services all have measures in place to `` fulfil critical functions '' .
But they would have to reduce services should significant numbers of police officers , NHS staff and other public services be struck down by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were in place to draft in the army , if necessary , to maintain public order .
• Police would `` concentrate on responding to serious crimes '' if they lose a `` significant '' amount of staff to illness • UK has stockpiles of medicines for the NHS , along with protective clothing and equipment for medical staff • If coronavirus becomes widespread , there will be a focus on essential services for those `` most at risk '' • The Ministry of Defence will provide support as needed • There will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public and the media • Social distancing strategies could be implemented , which would include school closures , home working , and reducing the number of large scale gatherings • Non-urgent operations and procedures could be cancelled and hospital discharges monitored to free up beds • Measures would come into place to help businesses with short-term cash flow problems • A distribution strategy would be implemented for sending out key medicines and equipment to NHS and social care patients Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there were `` long-established plans by which the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public safe but they will prioritise those things that they have to do '' .
He added : `` And the army is of course always ready to back-fill as and when , but that is under the reasonable worst case scenario . ''
Ministers did not put figures on projected mortality rates for a severe outbreak of COVID-19 , but confirmed there could be an increase in deaths arising from the outbreak .
Reports of worst-case scenario plans suggested four out of five people could contract the virus with up to 500,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revealed on Tuesday , warned of a depletion in workforces across the UK .
Officials said they were `` uncertain of the impact of the outbreak for business '' but confirmed that one in five workers could be absent in those weeks when the virus peaked .
The government also said it would consider closing schools , encourage working from home and the reduction of large-scale gatherings to slow the spread of the disease .
Universities and further education colleges could also be closed .
Speaking at a news conference , the chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patrick Vallance , said restricting travel once the epidemic was `` everywhere '' would make `` no difference at all '' .
`` At the moment we are certainly not recommending any change to behaviours in relation to that , '' he said .
`` And if it grows in the UK , then of course it does n't really make more sense to say that you 're at more risk somewhere else than you are here . ''
Mr Johnson also told reporters he continued to shake hands with people , adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the other night where I think there were coronavirus patients and I was shaking hands with everybody , you will be pleased to know , and I continue to shake hands .
`` People must make up their own minds but I think the scientific evidence is ... our judgement is that washing your hands is the crucial thing . ''
The government plan also warned of the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus .
`` It is possible that an outbreak or pandemic of COVID-19 could occur in multiple waves and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence tells us , it may be necessary to ensure readiness for a future wave of activity , '' their plan said .
The government 's 27-page document outlined its response in four stages .
They include containing the outbreak , delaying its spread , mitigating the impact of the disease once it becomes established , and implementing a research programme aimed at improving diagnostics and treatment for COVID-19 .
The government 's response is currently in the containment phase , along with research being carried out and planning for the delay and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delay the peak of the outbreak until the spring and summer months when health services are less busy .
Earlier Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted some of the planned action would be `` uncomfortable '' but insisted the government was `` quite prepared to do that if it 's necessary '' .
However , speaking to Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show , he said ministers had not yet ruled out `` succeeding in containing the disease '' at its current relatively low level .
Mr Hancock said the government was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as possible '' with the focus on elderly and vulnerable people , who are likely to see the biggest impact from the virus .
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK currently stands at 39 .
The latest cases , announced on Monday , were all people who had recently travelled to Italy , which has seen the biggest outbreak in Europe .
The European Commission on Monday said the risk level for those in the European Union and UK was `` moderate to high '' .
There are currently more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world and more than 3,000 deaths .

Police could be reduced to just dealing with very serious crimes and maintaining public order, while the NHS could be closed to all but critical care, as part of the government's coronavirus plans.
Under ministers' action plan to deal with a mass outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, it has been revealed emergency services all have measures in place to "fulfil critical functions".
But they would have to reduce services should significant numbers of police officers, NHS staff and other public services be struck down by the virus.
The government also confirmed plans were in place to draft in the army, if necessary, to maintain public order.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:48 COVID-19: Who are the most vulnerable?
Key points:
Police would "concentrate on responding to serious crimes" if they lose a "significant" amount of staff to illness
UK has stockpiles of medicines for the NHS, along with protective clothing and equipment for medical staff
If coronavirus becomes widespread, there will be a focus on essential services for those "most at risk"
The Ministry of Defence will provide support as needed
There will be increased government communication with parliament, the public and the media
Social distancing strategies could be implemented, which would include school closures, home-working, and reducing the number of large scale gatherings
Non-urgent operations and procedures could be cancelled and hospital discharges monitored to free up beds
Measures would come into place to help businesses with short-term cash flow problems
A distribution strategy for sending out key medicines and equipment to NHS and social care patients
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there were "long-established plans by which the police will, obviously, keep the public safe but they will prioritise those things that they have to do".
He added: "And the army is of course always ready to back-fill as and when, but that is under the reasonable worst-case scenario."
Listen to "How will coronavirus 'battle' plan affect everyday life? | 2 March 2020" on Spreaker. :: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ministers did not put figures on projected mortality rates for a severe outbreak of COVID-19, but confirmed there could be an increase in deaths arising from the outbreak.
Advertisement
Reports of worst-case scenario plans suggest four out of five people could contract the virus with up to 500,000 deaths.
The government action plan, revealed on Tuesday, warned of a depletion in workforces across the UK.
Officials said they were "uncertain of the impact of the outbreak for business" but confirmed that one in five workers could be absent in the weeks the virus peaks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:48 How an NHS call centre is dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak
The government also said it would consider closing schools, encourage working from home and the reduction of large-scale gatherings to slow the spread of the disease.
Universities and further education colleges could also be closed.
Speaking at a news conference, the chief scientific adviser to the government, Sir Patrick Vallance, said restricting travel once the epidemic was "everywhere" would make "no difference at all".
"At the moment we are certainly not recommending any change to behaviours in relation to that," he said.
"And if it grows in the UK, then of course it doesn't really make more sense to say that you're at more risk somewhere else than you are here."
Image: Sir Patrick Valance said restricting travel would make 'no difference'
Mr Johnson also told reporters he continued to shake hands with people, adding: "I was at a hospital the other night where I think there were coronavirus patients and I was shaking hands with everybody, you will be pleased to know, and I continue to shake hands.
"People must make up their own minds but I think the scientific evidence is... our judgement is that washing your hands is the crucial thing."
On parents worried about further school closures, Mr Johnson said: "We don't think that schools should be closing in principle - we think if possible schools should stay open but that schools should follow the advice of Public Health England."
Speaking about the concerned members of the public stockpiling food and supplies, Sir Patrick said there was "no reason" to do so.
"There's no reason to be doing any panic-buying of any sort or going out and keeping large supplies of things," he said.
"Clearly, there will need to be measures in cases of household quarantine for making sure that food is in the right place at the right time, but we imagine that could be a rolling case of household quarantine if that measure becomes necessary."
The comments come despite the government plan warning of the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus.
"It is possible that an outbreak or pandemic of COVID-19 could occur in multiple waves and therefore, depending on what the emerging evidence tells us, it may be necessary to ensure readiness for a future wave of activity," the plan said.
The government's 27-page document outlines its response in four stages.
They include containing the outbreak, delaying its spread, mitigating the impact of the disease once it becomes established, and implementing a research programme aimed at improving diagnostics and treatment for COVID-19.
The government's response is currently in the containment phase, along with research being carried out and planning for the delay and mitigation phase.
Officials are hoping to delay the peak of the outbreak until the spring and summer months when health services are less busy.
Earlier Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted some of the planned action would be "uncomfortable" but insisted the government was "quite prepared to do that if it's necessary".
However, speaking to Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast show, he said ministers had not yet ruled out "succeeding in containing the disease" at its current relatively low level.
Mr Hancock said the government was seeking "as targeted an approach as possible" with the focus on elderly and vulnerable people, who are likely to see the biggest impact from the virus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:36 Coronavirus: Why are older people most at risk?
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK currently stands at 51.
Many of the cases involve people who have recently travelled to Italy, which has seen the biggest outbreak in Europe.
The European Commission on Monday said the risk level for those in the European Union and UK was "moderate to high".
There are currently more than 91,000 cases of coronavirus around the world and more than 3,000 deaths.
Virus Outbreak: Global Emergency - Watch a special Sky News programme on coronavirus at 6pm weekdays.


skynewspolitics--2020-03-03--Patel bullying inquiry: Government 'at war' with its civil servants

Home Secretary Priti Patel is being urged to stand down while an investigation is carried out into bullying allegations against her .
The Cabinet Office is seeking to `` establish the facts '' about the claims against Ms Patel , who is under pressure following the explosive resignation of her department 's most senior official .
At the weekend , Sir Philip Rutnam , the Home Office 's top civil servant , quit and vowed to sue the government for constructive dismissal .
He also said he had heard claims of Ms Patel `` shouting and swearing , belittling people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Further serious allegations against the home secretary emerged on Monday night when it was reported a former aide to Ms Patel received a £25,000 payout after claiming she was bullied .
The BBC said it had seen legal correspondence claiming the woman had taken an overdose following the alleged incident in 2015 , when the home secretary was an employment minister .
A spokesman said Ms Patel `` completely rejects all allegations made against her '' .
Labour 's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott called for a `` genuinely independent inquiry '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Patel step down while an investigation takes place .
`` You ca n't have a government that 's at war with its civil servants , '' she told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme .
`` We want a genuinely independent inquiry .
A lawyer-led inquiry and something that can be seen to be independent .
`` I 'm afraid it would be better if she stepped down .
We are calling on her to step down whilst the inquiry goes on . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock spoke in defence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` very courteous '' .
`` I know Priti very well and she 's a very determined home secretary and I think that 's a good thing , '' he told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show .
`` Not least because she 's driving through such an important agenda in tackling crime .
`` She 's also very courteous and I 've never seen her anything other than courteous in all of the work I 've done with her over many years . ''
He added : `` Priti is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is what I think people would want to see in a home secretary .
`` There is a process in place to find out the facts and I think we should let that run its course . ''
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Monday that the Cabinet Office probe did not go far enough .
He said : `` The government must now call in an external lawyer as quite rightly suggested by the union for senior civil servants , the First Division Association .
`` A minister in breach of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office and should be dismissed . ''
FDA general secretary Dave Penman , whose union represents civil servants , has written to Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwill to call for a `` rapid '' independent investigation .
Mr Penman said the Cabinet Office probe `` falls far short of the independent inquiry we have called for '' .
SNP MP Joanna Cherry queried why the government would not agree to an independent inquiry , asking : `` What are they afraid of ? ''

Home Secretary Priti Patel is being urged to stand down while an investigation is carried out into bullying allegations against her.
The Cabinet Office is seeking to "establish the facts" about the claims against Ms Patel, who is under pressure following the explosive resignation of her department's most senior official.
At the weekend, Sir Philip Rutnam, the Home Office's top civil servant, quit and vowed to sue the government for constructive dismissal.
He also said he had heard claims of Ms Patel "shouting and swearing, belittling people, making unreasonable and repeated demands".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:54 Gove and Corbyn clash over Patel allegations
Further serious allegations against the home secretary emerged on Monday night when it was reported a former aide to Ms Patel received a £25,000 payout after claiming she was bullied.
The BBC said it had seen legal correspondence claiming the woman had taken an overdose following the alleged incident in 2015, when the home secretary was an employment minister.
A spokesman said Ms Patel "completely rejects all allegations made against her".
Labour's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott called for a "genuinely independent inquiry" into the claims, as she demanded Ms Patel step down while an investigation takes place.
"You can't have a government that's at war with its civil servants," she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.
Advertisement
"We want a genuinely independent inquiry. A lawyer-led inquiry and something that can be seen to be independent.
"I'm afraid it would be better if she stepped down. We are calling on her to step down whilst the inquiry goes on."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock spoke in defence of Ms Patel, who he described as "very courteous".
"I know Priti very well and she's a very determined home secretary and I think that's a good thing," he told Sky News' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show.
"Not least because she's driving through such an important agenda in tackling crime.
"She's also very courteous and I've never seen her anything other than courteous in all of the work I've done with her over many years."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 'I don't believe Priti Patel'
He added: "Priti is determined and she drives her agenda, which is what I think people would want to see in a home secretary.
"There is a process in place to find out the facts and I think we should let that run its course."
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Monday that the Cabinet Office probe did not go far enough.
He said: "The government must now call in an external lawyer as quite rightly suggested by the union for senior civil servants, the First Division Association.
"A minister in breach of the ministerial code cannot remain in office and should be dismissed."
FDA general secretary Dave Penman, whose union represents civil servants, has written to Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwill to call for a "rapid" independent investigation.
Mr Penman said the Cabinet Office probe "falls far short of the independent inquiry we have called for".
SNP MP Joanna Cherry queried why the government would not agree to an independent inquiry, asking: "What are they afraid of?"


skynewspolitics--2020-03-03--Domestic abusers could be forced to take lie detector tests

Convicted domestic abusers could be forced to take lie detector tests to try to stop them reoffending under new government plans .
Plans to introduce the legislation were shelved last year when parliament was prorogued and the general election called .
In the latest version of the Domestic Abuse Bill , due to have its first reading in the Commons today , proposals include banning perpetrators from cross-examining their victims during family court proceedings and requiring councils to find safe accommodation for victims and their children .
Court protection orders which prohibit perpetrators from contacting a victim or forcing them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment programmes may also be introduced .
Economic abuse , when a perpetrator controls a victim 's finances , will also be defined in the bill as a specific offence .
But perhaps most controversially , the bill would require convicted abusers to take polygraph tests to monitor their behaviour .
If the legislation passes , a three-year trial involving 300 abusers deemed at high-risk of causing serious harm will be carried out .
They will have to take a lie detector test three months after release from prison and then every subsequent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the test will not be recalled to prison unless it reveals they have breached their specific licence conditions .
If the pilot is successful it could be rolled out nationally .
Polygraph tests do not measure lying directly , but rather physical responses such as a change in blood pressure or breathing rate , or an increase in perspiration - signs that the subject might be trying to deceive the interviewer .
Over the years there have been questions about their accuracy , although the government insists they have been `` successfully used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ministers have described the new Domestic Abuse Bill as the `` most comprehensive package ever to tackle this horrendous crime '' , saying the `` enhanced '' proposals will `` go even further to support and protect victims and punish perpetrators '' and had been `` widely supported by charities , MPs and law enforcement '' .
However , some have said the proposals do not go far enough , particularly when it comes to protecting children .
Emily Hilton , senior policy officer at the NSPCC , said the government was missing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a difference .
She added : `` It is extremely disappointing that the Bill in its current form fails to protect children from the devastating impact of living with domestic abuse , leaving thousands at continued risk because the help they deserve is not in place . ''

Convicted domestic abusers could be forced to take lie detector tests to try to stop them reoffending under new government plans.
Plans to introduce the legislation were shelved last year when parliament was prorogued and the general election called.
In the latest version of the Domestic Abuse Bill, due to have its first reading in the Commons today, proposals include banning perpetrators from cross-examining their victims during family court proceedings and requiring councils to find safe accommodation for victims and their children.
Court protection orders which prohibit perpetrators from contacting a victim or forcing them to take part in alcohol or drug treatment programmes may also be introduced.
Economic abuse, when a perpetrator controls a victim's finances, will also be defined in the bill as a specific offence.
But perhaps most controversially, the bill would require convicted abusers to take polygraph tests to monitor their behaviour.
If the legislation passes, a three-year trial involving 300 abusers deemed at high-risk of causing serious harm will be carried out. They will have to take a lie detector test three months after release from prison and then every subsequent six months.
However, anyone failing the test will not be recalled to prison unless it reveals they have breached their specific licence conditions.
If the pilot is successful it could be rolled out nationally.
Advertisement
Polygraph tests do not measure lying directly, but rather physical responses such as a change in blood pressure or breathing rate, or an increase in perspiration - signs that the subject might be trying to deceive the interviewer.
Over the years there have been questions about their accuracy, although the government insists they have been "successfully used" with sex offenders since 2013.
Ministers have described the new Domestic Abuse Bill as the "most comprehensive package ever to tackle this horrendous crime", saying the "enhanced" proposals will "go even further to support and protect victims and punish perpetrators" and had been "widely supported by charities, MPs and law enforcement".
However, some have said the proposals do not go far enough, particularly when it comes to protecting children.
Emily Hilton, senior policy officer at the NSPCC, said the government was missing a "landmark opportunity" to make a difference.
She added: "It is extremely disappointing that the Bill in its current form fails to protect children from the devastating impact of living with domestic abuse, leaving thousands at continued risk because the help they deserve is not in place."


skynewspolitics--2020-03-03--New govt ads tell public how they can stop coronavirus spreading

The government is launching an expanded public information campaign as it tries to limit the spread of the coronavirus .
Adverts will reinforce the message that frequent hand-washing is the most important thing the public can do in the fight against COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
The government set out its plan to tackle the outbreak on Tuesday , as it was confirmed the number of cases in the UK had passed 50 .
The adverts - which will feature across print , radio , online and on billboards - will hammer home the need for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This includes when people come in from home or work , after they blow their nose , cough or sneeze , and before they eat or touch food .
People should wash their hands for 20 seconds and use soap and water or hand sanitiser .
The adverts will also stress the importance of coughing or sneezing into tissues before disposing of them .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : `` The UK is a world leader in preparing for and managing disease outbreaks and I have every confidence in our nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 .
`` We all have a role to play in stopping this disease and that 's what this expanded campaign is all about - making sure the public knows exactly what they should be doing to keep themselves and others safe .
`` Washing hands regularly is the single most important thing that an individual can do .
`` Public safety remains our top priority .
The government and the NHS are working 24/7 to fight this virus .
`` It 's imperative that everyone follows clinical advice by contacting NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & E if you develop symptoms . ''
On Tuesday , NHS England has declared coronavirus a level four incident - the highest level of emergency preparedness planning .
It comes as confirmed cases in the UK rose to 51 .
Twelve new UK cases were identified : eight had travelled from Italy , one from Germany , one from Singapore , one from Japan and one from Iran .
They are from London , Hampshire , Northamptonshire , Bury , Wirral , Greater Manchester , Humberside and Kent .
: : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Under the level four alert , all hospitals in England have been told to `` assume that they will need to look after COVID-19 cases in due course '' .
A national incident management team and co-ordination centre have been set up for the coronavirus .

The government is launching an expanded public information campaign as it tries to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
Adverts will reinforce the message that frequent hand-washing is the most important thing the public can do in the fight against COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
The government set out its plan to tackle the outbreak on Tuesday, as it was confirmed the number of cases in the UK had passed 50.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:51 Coronavirus: How bad will it get?
The adverts - which will feature across print, radio, online and on billboards - will hammer home the need for people to wash their hands more often.
This includes when people come in from home or work, after they blow their nose, cough or sneeze, and before they eat or touch food.
People should wash their hands for 20 seconds and use soap and water or hand sanitiser.
The adverts will also stress the importance of coughing or sneezing into tissues before disposing of them.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:16 January 2017: Six steps to clean hands
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "The UK is a world leader in preparing for and managing disease outbreaks and I have every confidence in our nation's ability to respond to the threat of COVID-19.
"We all have a role to play in stopping this disease and that's what this expanded campaign is all about - making sure the public knows exactly what they should be doing to keep themselves and others safe.
Advertisement
"Washing hands regularly is the single most important thing that an individual can do.
"Public safety remains our top priority. The government and the NHS are working 24/7 to fight this virus.
"It's imperative that everyone follows clinical advice by contacting NHS 111, and not going to A&E if you develop symptoms."
On Tuesday, NHS England declared coronavirus a level four incident - the highest level of emergency preparedness planning.
In its plan to deal with a major outbreak, the government said up to one in five workers could be off sick during a peak in coronavirus cases.
It comes as confirmed cases in the UK rose to 53.
Under the level four alert, all hospitals in England have been told to "assume that they will need to look after COVID-19 cases in due course".
A national incident management team and co-ordination centre have been set up for the coronavirus.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Other global developments:
World Health Organisation (WHO) director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, says about 3.4% of those diagnosed with COVID-19 have died
The World Bank has announced an initial $12bn (£9.3bn) to assist countries grappling with the health
and economic impacts of the outbreak
and economic impacts of the outbreak Indian media reports 16 Italian citizens have tested positive for COVID-19 in India
Tajikistan shuts its borders to nationals of 35 countries including Britain, China, Japan, Iran and the US
France and Switzerland's health ministers have asked citizens to consider dropping the everyday greeting of kissing each other on the cheek
Italian officials say the number of deaths of coronavirus patients in the country more than doubled in a 24-hour period to 79 overall, with the total number of confirmed cases of the disease rising to 2,502
There are than 93,400 confirmed and suspected cases globally, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the outbreak. It says there have been more than 3,190 deaths
Virus Outbreak: Global Emergency - Watch a special Sky News programme on coronavirus at 6pm weekdays


skynewspolitics--2020-03-03--Schools, stockpiling and holidays: The PM's plan to tackle coronavirus

Police could be reduced to just dealing with very serious crimes and maintaining public order , while the NHS could be closed to all but critical care , as part of the government 's coronavirus plans .
Under ministers ' action plan to deal with a mass outbreak of COVID-19 , the disease caused by coronavirus , it has been revealed emergency services all have measures in place to `` fulfil critical functions '' .
But they would have to reduce services should significant numbers of police officers , NHS staff and other public services be struck down by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were in place to draft in the army , if necessary , to maintain public order .
• Police would `` concentrate on responding to serious crimes '' if they lose a `` significant '' amount of staff to illness • UK has stockpiles of medicines for the NHS , along with protective clothing and equipment for medical staff • If coronavirus becomes widespread , there will be a focus on essential services for those `` most at risk '' • The Ministry of Defence will provide support as needed • There will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public and the media • Social distancing strategies could be implemented , which would include school closures , home-working , and reducing the number of large scale gatherings • Non-urgent operations and procedures could be cancelled and hospital discharges monitored to free up beds • Measures would come into place to help businesses with short-term cash flow problems • A distribution strategy for sending out key medicines and equipment to NHS and social care patients Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there were `` long-established plans by which the police will , obviously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will prioritise those things that they have to do '' .
He added : `` And the army is of course always ready to back-fill as and when , but that is under the reasonable worst-case scenario . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ministers did not put figures on projected mortality rates for a severe outbreak of COVID-19 , but confirmed there could be an increase in deaths arising from the outbreak .
Reports of worst-case scenario plans suggest four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus with up to 500,000 deaths .
The government action plan , revealed on Tuesday , warned of a depletion in workforces across the UK .
Officials said they were `` uncertain of the impact of the outbreak for business '' but confirmed that one in five workers could be absent in the weeks the virus peaks .
The government also said it would consider closing schools , encourage working from home and the reduction of large-scale gatherings to slow the spread of the disease .
Universities and further education colleges could also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conference , the chief scientific adviser to the government , Sir Patrick Vallance , said restricting travel once the epidemic was `` everywhere '' would make `` no difference at all '' .
`` At the moment we are certainly not recommending any change to behaviours in relation to that , '' he said .
`` And if it grows in the UK , then of course it does n't really make more sense to say that you 're at more risk somewhere else than you are here . ''
Mr Johnson also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with people , adding : `` I was at a hospital the other night where I think there were coronavirus patients and I was shaking hands with everybody , you will be pleased to know , and I continue to shake hands .
`` People must make up their own minds but I think the scientific evidence is ... our judgement is that washing your hands is the crucial thing . ''
On parents worried about further school closures , Mr Johnson said : `` We do n't think that schools should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible schools should stay open but that schools should follow the advice of Public Health England . ''
Speaking about the concerned members of the public stockpiling food and supplies , Sir Patrick said there was `` no reason '' to do so .
`` There 's no reason to be doing any panic-buying of any sort or going out and keeping large supplies of things , '' he said .
`` Clearly , there will need to be measures in cases of household quarantine for making sure that food is in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but we imagine that could be a rolling case of household quarantine if that measure becomes necessary . ''
The comments come despite the government plan warning of the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus .
`` It is possible that an outbreak or pandemic of COVID-19 could occur in multiple waves and therefore , depending on what the emerging evidence tells us , it may be necessary to ensure readiness for a future wave of activity , '' the plan said .
The government 's 27-page document outlines its response in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak , delaying its spread , mitigating the impact of the disease once it becomes established , and implementing a research programme aimed at improving diagnostics and treatment for COVID-19 .
The government 's response is currently in the containment phase , along with research being carried out and planning for the delay and mitigation phase .
Officials are hoping to delay the peak of the outbreak until the spring and summer months when health services are less busy .
Earlier Health Secretary Matt Hancock admitted some of the planned action would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` quite prepared to do that if it 's necessary '' .
However , speaking to Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show , he said ministers had not yet ruled out `` succeeding in containing the disease '' at its current relatively low level .
Mr Hancock said the government was seeking `` as targeted an approach as possible '' with the focus on elderly and vulnerable people , who are likely to see the biggest impact from the virus .
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cases involve people who have recently travelled to Italy , which has seen the biggest outbreak in Europe .
The European Commission on Monday said the risk level for those in the European Union and UK was `` moderate to high '' .
There are currently more than 91,000 cases of coronavirus around the world and more than 3,000 deaths .