skynewspolitics--2020-05-27--Home schooling to continue for most pupils until September, says minister

Most pupils should prepare to learn at home until the start of the autumn term , the schools minster has confirmed .
The government has announced that three primary school years - reception , year one and year six - will return from Monday , 1 June , prompting a battle with teaching unions .
The prime minister and the education secretary have made clear their ambition that all primary school pupils should return for a month of lessons before the summer .
But Nick Gibb shed a more doubtful note on the timetable , telling MPs on the Commons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say '' whether more children will return to school this term .
`` Remote education , home education , will continue for the majority of pupils and young people - probably until the end of the summer term '' , the schools minister said .
`` We do want young children to come back into school if the science indicates that it 's safe to do so .
It 's a balance .
`` We 're balancing the objective to return to school with the overwhelming objective of ensuring they are as safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school does not result in an increase in the R factor ( the reproduction number of the virus ) .
`` That 's why we are taking such a very cautious approach . ''
The phased return of the first three year groups - announced by the prime minister on Sunday at the height of the Dominic Cummings furore - is also yet to be confirmed , Mr Gibb said .
Asked by chair Robert Halfon , Tory MP for Harlow , why the government had presented it as a `` fait accompli @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed tomorrow when the Scientific Advisory Group ( SAGE ) releases its latest estimate of the R rate of COVID-19 in the UK .
The latest SAGE estimate last week kept the UK 's rate between 0.7 and 1 , the same as the previous week .
As to the return of more primary school pupils this term , Mr Gibb said : `` We do n't know until we see more evidence of the R factor continuing to reduce over the next few weeks . ''
He suggested that while the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next week , there may be a rota system for other young children due to lack of space in schools to implement social distancing .
Schools have received guidance from the Department for Education requiring them to reorganise their buildings to allow a maximum of 15 children per class .
Each class and their teacher will form a `` bubble '' that is kept separate from other children , and hand washing and classroom cleaning will be stepped up .
Mr Gibb was asked by Conservative MP Jonathan Gullis , a former teacher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election , what he could do to help parents `` regain confidence in the government 's message '' after the revelations about Mr Cummings .
Mr Gullis said the `` message has been undermined '' by Number 10 's senior adviser , adding that `` even if the law has n't been broken , the spirit of the law has been broken '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The schools minister replied that the phased reopening of schools was only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the social distancing measures and that `` the more we all adhere to the rules , the more we will be able to make further progress in reopening schools '' .
He acknowledged that there was `` a lot of anxiety '' about the reopening among parents but insisted that the decision to ask younger children back first was science-led .
`` Susceptibility to clinical disease is less for younger children than adults or older children '' , he told MPs .
Scientists are still unclear about how effectively children may spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ @

Most pupils should prepare to learn at home until the start of the autumn term, the schools minster has confirmed.
The government has announced that three primary school years - reception, year one and year six - will return from Monday, 1 June, prompting a battle with teaching unions.
The prime minister and the education secretary have made clear their ambition that all primary school pupils should return for a month of lessons before the summer.
Image: Education Minister Nick Gibb MP
But Nick Gibb shed a more doubtful note on the timetable, telling MPs on the Commons Education Committee it is "difficult to say" whether more children will return to school this term.
"Remote education, home education, will continue for the majority of pupils and young people - probably until the end of the summer term", the schools minister said.
"We do want young children to come back into school if the science indicates that it's safe to do so. It's a balance.
"We're balancing the objective to return to school with the overwhelming objective of ensuring they are as safe as possible and that returning children to school does not result in an increase in the R factor (the reproduction number of the virus).
"That's why we are taking such a very cautious approach."
The phased return of the first three year groups - announced by the prime minister on Sunday at the height of the Dominic Cummings furore - is also yet to be confirmed, Mr Gibb said.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:51 'Test, track and trace before reopening schools'
Asked by chair Robert Halfon, Tory MP for Harlow, why the government had presented it as a "fait accompli", he said it would be confirmed tomorrow when the Scientific Advisory Group (SAGE) releases its latest estimate of the R rate of COVID-19 in the UK.
The latest SAGE estimate last week kept the UK's rate between 0.7 and 1, the same as the previous week.
As to the return of more primary school pupils this term, Mr Gibb said: "We don't know until we see more evidence of the R factor continuing to reduce over the next few weeks."
He suggested that while the first primary school children will return full-time from next week, there may be a rota system for other young children due to lack of space in schools to implement social distancing.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:07 Children 'less likely to have serious symptoms'
Schools have received guidance from the Department for Education requiring them to reorganise their buildings to allow a maximum of 15 children per class.
Each class and their teacher will form a "bubble" that is kept separate from other children, and hand washing and classroom cleaning will be stepped up.
Mr Gibb was asked by Conservative MP Jonathan Gullis, a former teacher elected to Stoke-on-Trent North at the 2019 election, what he could do to help parents "regain confidence in the government's message" after the revelations about Mr Cummings.
Mr Gullis said the "message has been undermined" by Number 10's senior adviser, adding that "even if the law hasn't been broken, the spirit of the law has been broken".
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The schools minister replied that the phased reopening of schools was only possible due to the public's commitment to the social distancing measures and that "the more we all adhere to the rules, the more we will be able to make further progress in reopening schools".
He acknowledged that there was "a lot of anxiety" about the reopening among parents but insisted that the decision to ask younger children back first was science-led.
"Susceptibility to clinical disease is less for younger children than adults or older children", he told MPs.
Scientists are still unclear about how effectively children may spread the disease to adults.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-28--Hancock laughs off claims test and trace brought forward to distract from Cummings row

Matt Hancock has warned people could be forced to self-isolate under the new coronavirus test and trace system if they do not follow the rules voluntarily .
The health secretary predicted the `` vast majority '' will comply with the new strategy to loosen lockdown in England as he laughed off suggestions it was rushed forward to distract from the row over Downing Street aide Dominic Cummings .
He told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast the suggestion was `` priceless '' .
Speaking on the day of the launch of the contact tracing drive , he said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and there are some other countries in which it 's mandatory .
`` But in the first instance we have great faith the public will follow the instructions from the NHS ... '' It 's an instruction from the NHS and it 's very important that you do it , but it 's legally not mandated at this stage because we think it 's far , far better if as a country we pull together and do this and everybody follows the instructions . ''
Mr Hancock dismissed calls from a growing number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a senior minister - to sack Boris Johnson 's top adviser for making three trips during lockdown which `` undermined key public health messages '' .
Security minister James Brokenshire released a statement saying `` no-one is above the law '' and `` ultimately it is for the police to determine '' whether Mr Cummings broke it , as a former cabinet minister Karen Bradley said he should go to `` stop damaging the work that needs to be done '' .
`` It 's about the future - that 's actually what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday .
Mr Hancock claimed an app that monitors if a person has been near someone with COVID-19 will be expanded from its Isle of Wight trial soon but is not essential .
`` It puts the cherry on the cake , it is n't the cake , '' he explained .
Asked what people should do if they have childcare issues but are told to self-isolate , Mr Hancock told Sky News : `` Well , of course , it is very important that childcare is taken into account .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so yes it is very important that people deal with childcare and do that in a reasonable way . ''
Pushed on if they would need to stay at home , he added : `` That is what you will be instructed to do , yes , and you should follow those instructions because that is in the best interest of everybody . ''
Mr Cummings said earlier this week he had `` exceptional circumstances '' to move from London to his parents ' farm in Durham to seek childcare help , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ town of Barnard Castle to test his eyesight .
Britons have been in lockdown for 66 days , following the point on 23 March where the government moved from trying to contain outbreaks to delaying them spreading across the country .
The emergency measures are due to be reviewed today , after at least 37,460 people in the UK died with the virus - the worst death toll in Europe and second highest in the world .
Jon Ashworth , Labour 's shadow health secretary , said it was a `` mistake '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trace strategy two months ago .
He told Sky News it 's `` not good enough '' tests do n't have a 24-hour result guarantee but urged `` everybody to cooperate '' with the government 's new system .
`` It 's hugely disappointing and irresponsible that they back up Dominic Cummings right when we need people to follow the rules , '' he added .
Doubt has been cast on whether the test and trace system would actually be fully ready on time after an insider told Sky News that contact tracing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Thursday .
`` Some have not even got their basic systems up and running , '' they said , adding that they wo n't start making phone calls until next week .
A second person said they too had been told they would not be contacting people until Monday at the earliest and had not yet been given a login to the system .
One health department official told Sky News that not every tracer would be working straight away because of the low number of positive tests - there were 2,013 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the contact tracing system would give them a chance to sort out any issues ahead of lockdown easing on Monday when schools in England are being told to reopen .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Matt Hancock has warned people could be forced to self-isolate under the new coronavirus test and trace system if they do not follow the rules voluntarily.
The health secretary predicted the "vast majority" will comply with the new strategy to loosen lockdown in England as he laughed off suggestions it was rushed forward to distract from the row over Downing Street aide Dominic Cummings.
He told Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast the suggestion was "priceless".
Speaking on the day of the launch of the contact tracing drive, he said: "We have considered making this mandatory and there are some other countries in which it's mandatory.
"But in the first instance we have great faith the public will follow the instructions from the NHS...
"It's an instruction from the NHS and it's very important that you do it, but it's legally not mandated at this stage because we think it's far, far better if as a country we pull together and do this and everybody follows the instructions."
Mr Hancock dismissed calls from a growing number of Tory MPs - which now include a senior minister - to sack Boris Johnson's top adviser for making three trips during lockdown which "undermined key public health messages".
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Security minister James Brokenshire released a statement saying "no-one is above the law" and "ultimately it is for the police to determine" whether Mr Cummings broke it, as a former cabinet minister Karen Bradley said he should go to "stop damaging the work that needs to be done".
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"It's about the future - that's actually what matters," Mr Hancock insisted on Thursday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:34 Hancock explains Isle of Wight app 'delay'
Mr Hancock claimed an app that monitors if a person has been near someone with COVID-19 will be expanded from its Isle of Wight trial soon but is not essential. "It puts the cherry on the cake, it isn't the cake," he explained.
Asked what people should do if they have childcare issues but are told to self-isolate, Mr Hancock told Sky News: "Well, of course, it is very important that childcare is taken into account.
Image: The UK has been in lockdown for 66 days
"I understand that as well as anybody, so yes it is very important that people deal with childcare and do that in a reasonable way."
Pushed on if they would need to stay at home, he added: "That is what you will be instructed to do, yes, and you should follow those instructions because that is in the best interest of everybody."
Mr Cummings said earlier this week he had "exceptional circumstances" to move from London to his parents' farm in Durham to seek childcare help, and claimed he drove 30 minutes to the town of Barnard Castle to test his eyesight.
Britons have been in lockdown for 66 days, following the point on 23 March where the government moved from trying to contain outbreaks to delaying them spreading across the country.
The emergency measures are due to be reviewed today, after at least 37,460 people in the UK died with the virus - the worst death toll in Europe and second highest in the world.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:54 'We need test and trace to work'
Jon Ashworth, Labour's shadow health secretary, said it was a "mistake" to "abandon" the track and trace strategy two months ago.
He told Sky News it's "not good enough" tests don't have a 24-hour result guarantee but urged "everybody to cooperate" with the government's new system.
"It's hugely disappointing and irresponsible that they back up Dominic Cummings right when we need people to follow the rules," he added.
Doubt has been cast on whether the test and trace system would actually be fully ready on time after an insider told Sky News that contact tracing at their level would not go live on Thursday.
"Some have not even got their basic systems up and running," they said, adding that they won't start making phone calls until next week.
A second person said they too had been told they would not be contacting people until Monday at the earliest and had not yet been given a login to the system.
One health department official told Sky News that not every tracer would be working straight away because of the low number of positive tests - there were 2,013 on Wednesday.
And they added launching the contact tracing system would give them a chance to sort out any issues ahead of lockdown easing on Monday when schools in England are being told to reopen.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-28--Saving his Rasputin has cost Tsar Boris the public trust

Dominic Cummings has long been the talk of the political club in Westminster , fascinated by this Rasputin-like figure and devastatingly effective campaigner at the centre of the Downing Street machine .
But this week the prime minister 's chief aide became not just the talk of the SW1 bubble but of the whole country .
An anonymous adviser turned into a national conversation , his actions during lockdown the subject of intense media scrutiny , political debate and public ridicule .
What has been clear since this saga first blew up on Friday night is the determination of Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spectacle of Mr Cummings explaining himself at that hastily convened press conference in the Downing Street garden the proof that his prime minister would do the most extraordinary things to try to save Mr Cummings .
But if he hoped his aide would win over the public , he was very wrong .
After that statement , two in three Conservative voters thought Mr Cummings should resign , according to a poll in Wednesday 's Daily Mail .
Four out of five Tory voters believed he did break lockdown rules and two in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will make it less likely that people will follow lockdown rules .
It makes painful reading for a prime minister who has cast himself as the leader of the people 's government .
Now he looks out of step and out of touch with his public .
The prime minister 's stature - and that of his cabinet - has been diminished by the rather unedifying spectacle of making excuses for behaviour that the vast majority of the public believe to be inexcusable .
Meanwhile , Mr Cummings has been cast in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the very tribe he purports to despise - the privileged elite that treats `` the people '' with contempt .
The political fall-out for Downing Street is plain to see .
The prime minister has burnt through a lot of political capital to save Mr Cummings .
MPs are fractious .
Those I speak to tell me of the hundreds of emails piling up in their inboxes from angry constituents .
Forty-four have called on him to resign .
Privately there are many more - and the silent mutiny runs through right from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cabinet table .
But Mr Johnson and his inner team have stood their ground and the appetite from MPs to try to force Mr Cummings out seems to be losing momentum .
`` The damage to the government is already done now whether he stays or goes , '' said one MP from the 2019 intake who took part in a zoom call with scores of colleagues and the deputy chief whip on Wednesday .
`` Colleagues were critical but the main message was that if there are more revelations or if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday , then he have to go . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Much will depend on the Durham police investigation into his conduct .
Should the police decided to reprimand him , he will most likely have to resign .
But the relationship between the PM , his adviser and his party has soured over this whatever Mr Cummings 's ultimate fate .
One minister told me Mr Cummings would be a `` running sore '' now in government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the minister , `` been exposed for what he is '' and made weaker by this unfortunate episode .
`` He 's got a massive target on him now , '' said another MP .
Then there is the policy fall-out .
Cabinet office minister Penny Mordaunt on Wednesday told her constituents in an email that the row has `` undermined key public health messages . ''
Simon Hoare , a senior Conservative MP who grilled the prime minister at the liaison committee , said he too was worried that Mr Cummings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public health .
`` If the R rate climbs up and we have to resurrect lockdown , I am hearing that too many people for comfort will turn around and say 'no thank you , you can keep your lockdown .
We tried it , we feel played , we 're not going to do it . ''
And this is how , beyond the political fall-out , this episode has damaged the PM .
A spike in the R rate could now be laid at his door for confusing the public messaging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economic crisis and possible public health crisis should we see a second peak in the virus .
The prime minister needed to nurture public faith in his government rather than throw it away at such a crucial time in the fight against coronavirus .
This people 's government has lost many of its followers over this sorry affair .
Mr Johnson is going to have to fight as hard as he did to save Mr Cummings 's job to win back public trust .
He may have kept his adviser .
But he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , @ @ @ @

The PM will have to fight hard to restore his credibility as the leader of the people's government.
Dominic Cummings has long been the talk of the political club in Westminster, fascinated by this Rasputin-like figure and devastatingly effective campaigner at the centre of the Downing Street machine.
But this week the prime minister's chief aide became not just the talk of the SW1 bubble but of the whole country. An anonymous adviser turned into a national conversation, his actions during lockdown the subject of intense media scrutiny, political debate and public ridicule.
What has been clear since this saga first blew up on Friday night is the determination of Boris Johnson to save his man. The spectacle of Mr Cummings explaining himself at that hastily convened press conference in the Downing Street garden the proof that his prime minister would do the most extraordinary things to try to save Mr Cummings.
But if he hoped his aide would win over the public, he was very wrong. After that statement, two in three Conservative voters thought Mr Cummings should resign, according to a poll in Wednesday's Daily Mail. Four out of five Tory voters believed he did break lockdown rules and two in three of those polled said his conduct will make it less likely that people will follow lockdown rules.
It makes painful reading for a prime minister who has cast himself as the leader of the people's government. Now he looks out of step and out of touch with his public.
The prime minister's stature - and that of his cabinet - has been diminished by the rather unedifying spectacle of making excuses for behaviour that the vast majority of the public believe to be inexcusable.
Meanwhile, Mr Cummings has been cast in the public's mind as a member of the very tribe he purports to despise - the privileged elite that treats "the people" with contempt.
The political fall-out for Downing Street is plain to see. The prime minister has burnt through a lot of political capital to save Mr Cummings. MPs are fractious. Those I speak to tell me of the hundreds of emails piling up in their inboxes from angry constituents.
Forty-four have called on him to resign. Privately there are many more - and the silent mutiny runs through right from the backbenches to some who sit around the cabinet table.
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But Mr Johnson and his inner team have stood their ground and the appetite from MPs to try to force Mr Cummings out seems to be losing momentum.
"The damage to the government is already done now whether he stays or goes," said one MP from the 2019 intake who took part in a zoom call with scores of colleagues and the deputy chief whip on Wednesday.
"Colleagues were critical but the main message was that if there are more revelations or if something was wrong in his statement on Monday, then he have to go."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Much will depend on the Durham police investigation into his conduct. Should the police decided to reprimand him, he will most likely have to resign.
But the relationship between the PM, his adviser and his party has soured over this whatever Mr Cummings's ultimate fate. One minister told me Mr Cummings would be a "running sore" now in government. He has, in the words of the minister, "been exposed for what he is" and made weaker by this unfortunate episode. "He's got a massive target on him now," said another MP.
Then there is the policy fall-out. Cabinet office minister Penny Mordaunt on Wednesday told her constituents in an email that the row has "undermined key public health messages."
Simon Hoare, a senior Conservative MP who grilled the prime minister at the liaison committee, said he too was worried that Mr Cummings's behaviour could have serious implications for public health. "If the R rate climbs up and we have to resurrect lockdown, I am hearing that too many people for comfort will turn around and say 'no thank you, you can keep your lockdown. We tried it, we feel played, we're not going to do it."
And this is how, beyond the political fall-out, this episode has damaged the PM. A spike in the R rate could now be laid at his door for confusing the public messaging.
This government is already facing an economic crisis and possible public health crisis should we see a second peak in the virus. The prime minister needed to nurture public faith in his government rather than throw it away at such a crucial time in the fight against coronavirus.
This people's government has lost many of its followers over this sorry affair. Mr Johnson is going to have to fight as hard as he did to save Mr Cummings's job to win back public trust. He may have kept his adviser. But he has paid a very heavy price.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-27--Cheers! Johnson hints at pubs opening before July

Boris Johnson is announcing his second major review of coronavirus lockdown rules , 66 days after he introduced them in late March .
But growing numbers of Tory MPs are claiming his review has been undermined by his refusal to sack his aide Dominic Cummings for breaking the rules .
The number of Conservative MPs demanding Mr Cummings ' dismissal is now approaching 50 , with many more publicly criticising his actions .
The former chancellor Sajid Javid said Mr Cummings 's trip to Durham was neither `` necessary or justified '' and he should apologise .
And the Paymaster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to speak out , claiming the row was undermining public health messages .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The prime minister is expected to give the all-clear for schools in England to begin reopening next Monday and non-essential shops a fortnight later , on 15 June .
But during a 99-minute interrogation by the Liaison Committee of senior MPs , dominated by clashes over Mr Cummings , he hinted there could also be good news on pubs and restaurants .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go as fast as we can '' to reopen the hospitality industry , which in the previous review on 7 May he said he hoped would happen on 3 July .
`` It is very difficult to bring forward hospitality measures in a way that involves social distancing , '' he told the Liaison Committee during questions on reopening the economy .
`` But I 'm much more optimistic about that than I was .
We may be able to do things faster than I had previously thought . ''
The PM also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule could soon be reduced to enable businesses such as pubs and restaurants to reopen faster .
He said he had asked the government 's scientific advisers to look again at the guidance and was optimistic `` we will be able to reduce that distance '' as the coronavirus lockdown is lifted .
Downing Street has revealed that the next steps in easing the lockdown in England are likely to be unveiled at the daily news conference , likely to be fronted by the prime minister .
But it was emphasised that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deadline would not be made until after ministers considered evidence from the SAGE group of scientific experts .
Key to ensuring the restrictions can be safely relaxed is keeping down the so-called R rate , the average number of people to whom an infected individual transmits the disease .
Mr Johnson told the Liaison Committee `` not everybody will go back '' on day one of the phased reopening of schools next week , but insisted it was safe provided everybody remembered guidelines on social distancing and hand washing .
It has also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` increase social contact '' two households will be able to meet outdoors from next month .
That would mean it would be possible to enjoy a picnic in a public space with another family or visit friends in a garden .
But the prime minister , who repeatedly told the Liaison Committee it was `` time to move on '' from the Cummings row , will be worried that criticism of his close aide is continuing to grow and now being joined by senior figures .
Calling on Mr Cummings to issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I do not believe Mr Cummings ' journey to County Durham to isolate on his family 's estate was necessary or justified .
`` I remain unconvinced his visit to Barnard Castle could be considered reasonable .
`` I was also deeply concerned by his decision to return to Downing Street directly after coming into contact with a family member who was ill , potentially with coronavirus . ''
Ms Mordaunt , sacked from the cabinet by Mr Johnson when he became PM but brought back into government after the election , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's account of events and his reasons .
`` There is no doubt he took risks - refuelling at a petrol station is a risk to oneself and to others , which presumably he did , '' she said .
`` What is clear is that the scenes of the last few days will have undermined key public health messages .
I deeply regret this and am very sorry for it . ''
Earlier , during the Liaison Committee , Mr Johnson rejected calls from MPs for an inquiry by the Cabinet Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frankly I 'm not certain that an inquiry is a good use of official time , '' the prime minister said , claiming Sir Mark was busy dealing with the coronavirus pandemic .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Boris Johnson is announcing his second major review of coronavirus lockdown rules, 66 days after he introduced them in late March.
But growing numbers of Tory MPs are claiming his review has been undermined by his refusal to sack his aide Dominic Cummings for breaking the rules.
The number of Conservative MPs demanding Mr Cummings' dismissal is now approaching 50, with many more publicly criticising his actions.
The former chancellor Sajid Javid said Mr Cummings's trip to Durham was neither "necessary or justified" and he should apologise.
And the Paymaster General Penny Mordaunt became the first minister to speak out, claiming the row was undermining public health messages.
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The prime minister is expected to give the all-clear for schools in England to begin reopening next Monday and non-essential shops a fortnight later, on 15 June.
But during a 99-minute interrogation by the Liaison Committee of senior MPs, dominated by clashes over Mr Cummings, he hinted there could also be good news on pubs and restaurants.
He said the government was "trying to go as fast as we can" to reopen the hospitality industry, which in the previous review on 7 May he said he hoped would happen on 3 July.
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"It is very difficult to bring forward hospitality measures in a way that involves social distancing," he told the Liaison Committee during questions on reopening the economy.
"But I'm much more optimistic about that than I was. We may be able to do things faster than I had previously thought."
The PM also said he hoped the two-metre social distancing rule could soon be reduced to enable businesses such as pubs and restaurants to reopen faster.
He said he had asked the government's scientific advisers to look again at the guidance and was optimistic "we will be able to reduce that distance" as the coronavirus lockdown is lifted.
Downing Street has revealed that the next steps in easing the lockdown in England are likely to be unveiled at the daily news conference, likely to be fronted by the prime minister.
But it was emphasised that the final decision before the latest three-week legal deadline would not be made until after ministers considered evidence from the SAGE group of scientific experts.
Key to ensuring the restrictions can be safely relaxed is keeping down the so-called R rate, the average number of people to whom an infected individual transmits the disease.
Mr Johnson told the Liaison Committee "not everybody will go back" on day one of the phased reopening of schools next week, but insisted it was safe provided everybody remembered guidelines on social distancing and hand washing.
It has also been reported that under new plans to "increase social contact" two households will be able to meet outdoors from next month.
That would mean it would be possible to enjoy a picnic in a public space with another family or visit friends in a garden.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 PM gets grilling from MPs over Cummings
But the prime minister, who repeatedly told the Liaison Committee it was "time to move on" from the Cummings row, will be worried that criticism of his close aide is continuing to grow and now being joined by senior figures.
Calling on Mr Cummings to issue an apology, Mr Javid said: "I do not believe Mr Cummings' journey to County Durham to isolate on his family's estate was necessary or justified.
"I remain unconvinced his visit to Barnard Castle could be considered reasonable.
"I was also deeply concerned by his decision to return to Downing Street directly after coming into contact with a family member who was ill, potentially with coronavirus."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:36 Public have their say on Dominic Cummings
Ms Mordaunt, sacked from the cabinet by Mr Johnson when he became PM but brought back into government after the election, said there were inconsistencies in Mr Cummings's account of events and his reasons.
"There is no doubt he took risks - refuelling at a petrol station is a risk to oneself and to others, which presumably he did," she said.
"What is clear is that the scenes of the last few days will have undermined key public health messages. I deeply regret this and am very sorry for it."
Earlier, during the Liaison Committee, Mr Johnson rejected calls from MPs for an inquiry by the Cabinet Secretary, Sir Mark Sedwill.
"Quite frankly I'm not certain that an inquiry is a good use of official time," the prime minister said, claiming Sir Mark was busy dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-27--Test and trace programme launches amid reports of 'crashes'

The government 's coronavirus test and trace programme has launched but there were reports of crashes amid suggestions it may not be fully ready .
NHS workers in the scheme reported being unable to log into the new website , with volunteers saying they received a message on the programme saying a `` critical incident '' has been reported with the system .
It comes as Baroness Dido Harding , who has been appointed to lead the scheme , told MPs on a conference call the system will not be fully operational until the end of June .
Following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was `` not sure where that leaves Johnson 's promise of a fully operational 'world beating ' system by Monday '' .
Anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has been infected with COVID-19 will be asked to isolate for 14 days even if they have no symptoms .
Boris Johnson has acknowledged that being told to self-isolate was a `` huge imposition '' but people should be aware of why the programme is needed .
And he warned that if the initial voluntary system was not respected , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fail to comply .
However , doubt was cast on whether the test and trace system would actually be fully ready on time , with one person telling Sky News that the system constantly crashed because of the volume of users .
Sky 's political correspondent Rob Powell said a Department of Health source said that `` some contact tracers had some issues logging in - but this is the staff side , not the public side '' .
He added : `` They say this is the staff side of things , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go online and book a test if you are symptomatic is still running smoothly . ''
He said officials have acknowledged there will be `` teething problems and they will take time to iron out . ''
NHS Providers boss Chris Hopson said `` some elements '' of test and trace are now in place but local plans are not , and the government should `` manage expectations '' and be honest that this will take time to build up and not suggest it is all ready to go now .
Speaking to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harding confirmed the programme `` would not be ready and would not be expected to be ready until the end of June '' , adding : `` It does n't really fit with what the prime minister told the House of Commons at Prime Minister 's Questions last week . ''
Explaining the scheme , the prime minister told MPs on the liaison committee on Wednesday : `` We will be asking people to stay at home .
`` If they do n't follow that advice , what we will be saying is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary . ''
Health secretary Matt Hancock warned people could be forced to self-isolate under the new coronavirus test and trace system if they do not follow the rules voluntarily .
He said : `` We have considered making this mandatory and there are some other countries in which it 's mandatory .
`` But in the first instance , we have great faith the public will follow the instructions from the NHS '' .
Anyone who tests positive will be asked for details of people they have been in close contact with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last seven days - either by a contact tracer or by a text or email .
Once they have given those details , either to the contact tracer or online via a website , those contacts will then be alerted by phone , text or email .
Depending on their level of risk , those contacts will be instructed to isolate for up to 14 days - anyone with symptoms should also isolate for seven days while they wait for a test result .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spreaker In order to prepare for the launch , the government has hired 25,000 contact tracers to get in touch with people who have the virus .
Officials said all of them would be ready to report for duty on Thursday .
Yet the scheme will not include the contact tracing app currently being tested on the Isle of Wight , which means it will not be able to identify people unknown to someone who tests positive .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

The government's coronavirus test and trace programme has launched but there were reports of crashes amid suggestions it may not be fully ready.
NHS workers in the scheme reported being unable to log into the new website, with volunteers saying they received a message on the programme saying a "critical incident" has been reported with the system.
It comes as Baroness Dido Harding, who has been appointed to lead the scheme, told MPs on a conference call the system will not be fully operational until the end of June.
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Following the call, Labour MP Ben Bradshaw tweeted he was "not sure where that leaves Johnson's promise of a fully operational 'world beating' system by Monday".
Anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has been infected with COVID-19 will be asked to isolate for 14 days even if they have no symptoms.
Boris Johnson has acknowledged that being told to self-isolate was a "huge imposition" but people should be aware of why the programme is needed.
And he warned that if the initial voluntary system was not respected, fines could be introduced for people who fail to comply.
However, doubt was cast on whether the test and trace system would actually be fully ready on time, with one person telling Sky News that the system constantly crashed because of the volume of users.
Sky's political correspondent Rob Powell said a Department of Health source said that "some contact tracers had some issues logging in".
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"They say this is the staff side of things, whereas the public side where you can go online and book a test if you are symptomatic is still running smoothly," he said.
He added officials have acknowledged there will be "teething problems and they will take time to iron out".
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NHS Providers boss Chris Hopson said "some elements" of test and trace are now in place but local plans are not, and the government should "manage expectations" and be honest this will take time to build up and not suggest it is all ready to go now.
Speaking to Sky News, Mr Bradshaw said Baroness Harding confirmed the programme "would not be ready and would not be expected to be ready until the end of June", adding: "It doesn't really fit with what the prime minister told the House of Commons at Prime Minister's Questions last week."
One contact tracer told Sky News that volunteers were told on Wednesday that they would be starting on 1 June, and "knew nothing about the announcement yesterday that it was going to be today".
"It really is as bad as I thought it was in terms of organisation - this is particularly bad," they said.
The contact tracer, who preferred to remain anonymous, added that there is "no quality or vetting process" in terms of who the government is hiring.
"There's no checks and balances in terms of what people they are hiring. It's just a matter of getting the number of people through the door."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:01 Hancock explains 'detective' work used for track and trace
Explaining the scheme, the prime minister told MPs on the liaison committee on Wednesday: "We will be asking people to stay at home.
"If they don't follow that advice, what we will be saying is we will consider what sanctions may be necessary."
Health secretary Matt Hancock warned people could be forced to self-isolate under the new coronavirus test and trace system if they do not follow the rules voluntarily.
He said: "We have considered making this mandatory and there are some other countries in which it's mandatory.
"But in the first instance, we have great faith the public will follow the instructions from the NHS".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:41 PM sorry for 'pain, anguish and heartbreak'
Anyone who tests positive will be asked for details of people they have been in close contact with and places they have visited over the last seven days - either by a contact tracer or by a text or email.
Once they have given those details, either to the contact tracer or online via a website, those contacts will then be alerted by phone, text or email.
Depending on their level of risk, those contacts will be instructed to isolate for up to 14 days - anyone with symptoms should also isolate for seven days while they wait for a test result.
In order to prepare for the launch, the government has hired 25,000 contact tracers to get in touch with people who have the virus. Officials said all of them would be ready to report for duty on Thursday.
Yet the scheme will not include the contact tracing app currently being tested on the Isle of Wight, which means it will not be able to identify people unknown to someone who tests positive.
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A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "The system has not crashed. Anyone in the country can log on and book a test if they have symptoms and we have tracers logged on to do their vital work to help stop the spread of coronavirus and save lives.
"As with all large scale operations of this kind, some staff did initially encounter issues logging on to their systems and these are rapidly being resolved."
They added: "Test and trace begins today, not June, and local councils already have plans in place to respond to COVID-19.
"To support the roll-out of test and trace, all councils have been asked to extend these existing plans into dedicated Local Outbreak Plans by the end of June. Last week we gave all councils £300 million new dedicated funding to support this."
Downing Street has also confirmed the number of people tested for COVID-19 has not been released for several days due to an "issue" meaning they were unable to get the data from one commercial partner.
Mr Johnson's spokesman said he expects test reporting to continue again as usual next week.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too. If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-28--'Trumpesque' PM stops top experts answering questions about Dominic Cummings

Boris Johnson has been accused of `` Trumpesque '' behaviour after intervening to stop the government 's top experts from answering questions about Dominic Cummings .
The prime minister stressed he wanted to `` draw a line '' under the furious row over the actions of Mr Cummings , his chief adviser , during Thursday 's coronavirus briefing from Downing Street .
Mr Cummings is facing calls for him to resign due to his lockdown trips , with Durham Police finding he `` might '' have committed `` a minor breach '' of the rules .
However , England 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government 's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance - who flanked the prime minister at Thursday 's briefing - were not afforded the opportunity to offer their view on whether other people should follow the example of Mr Cummings .
Responding to a question asked of Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick about Mr Cummings , Mr Johnson said : `` I 'm going to interpose myself , if I may , and protect them from what would be an unfair and unnecessary attempt to ask a political question .
`` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and scientific advisers do not get dragged into what most people would recognise as fundamentally a political argument . ''
The prime minister repeated that it was `` very important our advisers are protected from being dragged into political controversy '' when a second reporter asked Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick whether they feared compliance with the lockdown rules could now be reduced due to Mr Cummings 's behaviour .
Sky News deputy political editor Sam Coates then asked whether Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick were `` entirely comfortable with the prime minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions about Dominic Cummings '' .
Prof Whitty replied : `` I can assure you that the desire not to get pulled into politics is far stronger on the part of Sir Patrick and me than it is on the prime minister . ''
And Sir Patrick added : `` I 'm a civil servant , I 'm politically neutral , I do n't want to get involved in politics at all . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , journalists were not allowed follow-up questions and their video links appeared to be muted as Mr Johnson moved on to other reporters ' contributions .
At the weekend , Dr Jenny Harries - England 's deputy chief medical officer - did answer questions related to Mr Cummings 's actions at a Downing Street briefing .
Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick had been scheduled to appear at Monday 's Downing Street briefing - which followed Mr Cummings giving his explanation of his lockdown trips - but were axed from the line-up .
Number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patrick `` did n't need to take part '' in Monday 's briefing as the prime minister thought most of the questions that day would be focussed on Mr Cummings 's statement .
Following Thursday 's news conference , at which Mr Johnson set out the latest easing of the coronavirus lockdown , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said : `` Nobody should be stopped from answering questions from journalists but it 's the prime minister here that 's in issue .
`` He 's been too weak throughout this whole episode .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ If I 'd been prime minister I would have sacked Dominic Cummings , we 've now effectively wasted a week when we should have been concentrating on the safety of what comes next . ''
Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner accused Mr Johnson of `` Trumpesque '' behaviour , in reference to the US president , adding : `` Not a good look at all . ''
Ian Murray , the executive director of the Society of Editors , described the prime minister 's decision to intercept questions about Mr Cummings as `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not yet clear whether there will be longer term consequences from Cummings row Grandparents can see their families for the first time in months .
That 's the headline Number 10 were hoping to see on the front of tomorrow 's newspapers , as the prime minister set out further measures to lift the lockdown in England .
But yet again the Downing Street news conference was dominated by tricky questions about Dominic Cummings 's journeys around the North East .
The most eye-popping moment was when Boris Johnson blocked his two most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two successive journalists ' questions on the topic .
When reporter number three - Sky News deputy political editor Sam Coates - tried again , asking if Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty were entirely comfortable with not being allowed to speak ( `` if you ca n't give a verbal answer , a nod or a shake of the head will suffice '' ) , the prime minister relented .
They argued that as civil servants , they did n't want to be drawn into politics .
But some claim this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if people stop following the rules because of the actions of Mr Johnson 's chief adviser .
Even if - as now seems probable - Mr Cummings keeps his job , it is not yet clear whether there will be longer term consequences .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

Boris Johnson has been accused of "Trumpesque" behaviour after intervening to stop the government's top experts from answering questions about Dominic Cummings.
The prime minister stressed he wanted to "draw a line" under the furious row over the actions of Mr Cummings, his chief adviser, during Thursday's coronavirus briefing from Downing Street.
Mr Cummings is facing calls for him to resign due to his lockdown trips, with Durham Police finding he "might" have committed "a minor breach" of the rules.
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However, England's chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and the government's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance - who flanked the prime minister at Thursday's briefing - were not afforded the opportunity to offer their view on whether other people should follow the example of Mr Cummings.
Responding to a question asked of Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick about Mr Cummings, Mr Johnson said: "I'm going to interpose myself, if I may, and protect them from what would be an unfair and unnecessary attempt to ask a political question.
"It's very, very important our medical officers and scientific advisers do not get dragged into what most people would recognise as fundamentally a political argument."
The prime minister repeated that it was "very important our advisers are protected from being dragged into political controversy" when a second reporter asked Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick whether they feared compliance with the lockdown rules could now be reduced due to Mr Cummings's behaviour.
Sky News deputy political editor Sam Coates then asked whether Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick were "entirely comfortable with the prime minister telling you that you can't answer questions about Dominic Cummings".
Prof Whitty replied: "I can assure you that the desire not to get pulled into politics is far stronger on the part of Sir Patrick and me than it is on the prime minister."
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And Sir Patrick added: "I'm a civil servant, I'm politically neutral, I don't want to get involved in politics at all."
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In a break with previous Downing Street news conferences, journalists were not allowed follow-up questions and their video links appeared to be muted as Mr Johnson moved on to other reporters' contributions.
At the weekend, Dr Jenny Harries - England's deputy chief medical officer - did answer questions related to Mr Cummings's actions at a Downing Street briefing.
Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick had been scheduled to appear at Monday's Downing Street briefing - which followed Mr Cummings giving his explanation of his lockdown trips - but were axed from the line-up.
Number 10 later said Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick "didn't need to take part" in Monday's briefing as the prime minister thought most of the questions that day would be focussed on Mr Cummings's statement.
Following Thursday's news conference, at which Mr Johnson set out the latest easing of the coronavirus lockdown, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "Nobody should be stopped from answering questions from journalists but it's the prime minister here that's in issue.
"He's been too weak throughout this whole episode. He should have acted swiftly.
"If I'd been prime minister I would have sacked Dominic Cummings, we've now effectively wasted a week when we should have been concentrating on the safety of what comes next."
Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner accused Mr Johnson of "Trumpesque" behaviour, in reference to the US president, adding: "Not a good look at all."
Ian Murray, the executive director of the Society of Editors, described the prime minister's decision to intercept questions about Mr Cummings as "unfortunate".
ANALYSIS: It is not yet clear whether there will be longer term consequences from Cummings row
By Joe Pike, political correspondent
Grandparents can see their families for the first time in months.
That's the headline Number 10 were hoping to see on the front of tomorrow's newspapers, as the prime minister set out further measures to lift the lockdown in England.
But yet again the Downing Street news conference was dominated by tricky questions about Dominic Cummings's journeys around the North East.
The most eye-popping moment was when Boris Johnson blocked his two most senior scientific and medical advisers from answering two successive journalists' questions on the topic.
When reporter number three - Sky News deputy political editor Sam Coates - tried again, asking if Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty were entirely comfortable with not being allowed to speak ("if you can't give a verbal answer, a nod or a shake of the head will suffice"), the prime minister relented.
They argued that as civil servants, they didn't want to be drawn into politics.
But some claim this is now a matter of public health if people stop following the rules because of the actions of Mr Johnson's chief adviser.
Even if - as now seems probable - Mr Cummings keeps his job, it is not yet clear whether there will be longer term consequences.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-28--PM's brute effort to save Dominic Cummings appears to have succeeded

The answer from the government 's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance on Dominic Cummings was actually entirely sensible , if not the one the svengali 's critics might have wanted to hear .
As a civil servant as well as a scientist , Sir Patrick would be unwise to pronounce on the behaviour of Mr Cummings and it was not necessary that he did so .
There is a legitimate reason that other members of the government 's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) could sound off , but not Sir Patrick .
It was a legitimate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journalists , but a legitimate answer too .
It is not as if he does n't have enough on his plate to deal with at the moment .
The mystery was why Boris Johnson interposed himself twice before to stop Sir Patrick answering questions on his views on the behaviour of the prime minister 's chief aide .
The prime minister is not known for shielding senior civil servants from difficulty .
Nevertheless , Mr Johnson 's deployment of brute force to ensure Mr Cummings 's survival appears to have succeeded .
Unless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , this chapter on the affair looks like it is closing for now .
Downing Street instantly decided that the Durham Police statement meant their man was in the clear and he could stay in office .
In truth , the police statement was a lot more murky than that - saying he `` might '' have broken the rules - and in doing so giving Labour ammunition for the medium to long term .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognisable Rasputin to mock and vilify as the font of everything they dislike about Mr Johnson 's government .
Mr Cummings is now a celebrity , and not in a good way .
Perhaps the biggest revelation of the last few days , for Tory MPs as much as the public , is that there is apparently nothing Mr Cummings can do that will ever see him removed from office .
He is untouchable , more so than members of the cabinet who - like one-time chancellor Sajid Javid , now fence sitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them stripped of office if they defied his whims .
However , that very sense of being untouchable may in itself become problematic .
It may just become an itch that opponents and Tory critics can not resist coming back to scratch .
Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts , email afterthepandemic @ sky.uk

The answer from the government's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance on Dominic Cummings was actually entirely sensible, if not the one the svengali's critics might have wanted to hear.
As a civil servant as well as a scientist, Sir Patrick would be unwise to pronounce on the behaviour of Mr Cummings and it was not necessary that he did so.
There is a legitimate reason that other members of the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) could sound off, but not Sir Patrick.
It was a legitimate line of questioning to Sir Patrick from journalists, but a legitimate answer too.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:39 PM stops questions to his advisers
He said: "I am a civil servant. I am politically neutral. I don't want to get involved politics at all."
It is not as if he doesn't have enough on his plate to deal with at the moment.
The mystery was why Boris Johnson interposed himself twice before to stop Sir Patrick answering questions on his views on the behaviour of the prime minister's chief aide.
The prime minister is not known for shielding senior civil servants from difficulty.
Nevertheless, Mr Johnson's deployment of brute force to ensure Mr Cummings's survival appears to have succeeded.
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Unless new and unanticipated facts come to light, this chapter on the affair looks like it is closing for now.
Downing Street instantly decided that the Durham Police statement meant their man was in the clear and he could stay in office.
In truth, the police statement was a lot more murky than that - saying he "might" have broken the rules - and in doing so giving Labour ammunition for the medium to long term.
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Also the public now have a recognisable Rasputin to mock and vilify as the font of everything they dislike about Mr Johnson's government.
Mr Cummings is now a celebrity, and not in a good way.
Perhaps the biggest revelation of the last few days, for Tory MPs as much as the public, is that there is apparently nothing Mr Cummings can do that will ever see him removed from office.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:13 Cummings may have committed 'minor breach'
He is untouchable, more so than members of the cabinet who - like one-time chancellor Sajid Javid, now fence sitter on Mr Cummings's future - saw them stripped of office if they defied his whims.
However, that very sense of being untouchable may in itself become problematic.
It may just become an itch that opponents and Tory critics cannot resist coming back to scratch.
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-10--UK lockdown: What you can and can't do after changes announced

All four UK nations are continuing to loosen their lockdown measures to allow people more freedom .
However , England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland do differ slightly from each other as they make their own decisions on health - and nobody can yet move across borders .
Each government 's measures need to be reviewed every three weeks by law and are each based on scientific advice , such as keeping the ' R number ' below one .
Sky News is keeping track of the rules for all four nations .
Boris Johnson 's `` conditional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in England previously set out three phases .
The slogan of `` stay at home , protect the NHS , save lives '' was changed to `` stay alert , control the virus , save lives '' .
On 28 May , Mr Johnson gave his latest update on what restrictions will be lifted from 1 June , and added that further restrictions could be eased later in the month , such as more retail being allowed to open , as long as the R rate stays below one .
• People can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in public or private outdoor spaces , as long as social distancing is practised • Reception , year one , year six and nursery age children are allowed to go back to school - despite teaching unions expressing serious doubts • People can visit outdoor retail spaces - such as outdoor markets - and car showrooms where social distancing can be observed • Travel to work if you can not work from home , while avoiding public transport if possible .
People using buses or trains are advised to wear a face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or sunbathing , for example • Travel to an outdoor open space irrespective of distance , but not with someone from outside your household unless you can practise social distancing - for example by cycling • Take day trips to an outdoor open space in a private vehicle • Meet one other person from a different household outdoors , while following social distancing guidelines • Exercise outdoors as often as you would like - again keeping at least two metres apart • Use a tennis or a basketball court , or a golf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or one other person • Students can return home if it is a permanent move • Go to property viewings in person and visit agents for both sales and rentals • Nannies and childminders can come to your house to look after your children , provided good public health measures are adhered to You still can not do the following : • Visit friends and family inside their homes or stay overnight • Exercise in an indoor sports court , gym or leisure centre , or go swimming in a public pool • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leave your home to stay at another home • Share a private vehicle with someone from another household • Leave your home to stay at another home for a holiday or other purpose - including visiting second homes • Invite anyone other than close family or friends , and someone from the deceased 's household , to a funeral • Fines for breaking lockdown rules increased from £60 to £100 .
Repeat offenders will see the fine double for each subsequent breach to a maximum of £3,200 • Secondary pupils with exams next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teachers before the summer , the PM said • More non-essential retail could open their doors , including fashion and tech shops • Restaurants and hotels : July is the earliest point at which `` some of the hospitality industry and other public places '' could reopen , the PM said , but only if `` they are safe and enforce social distancing '' • Hairdressers : Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told Sky News that salons and barbers will not reopen until 4 July `` at the very earliest '' : : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that Scotland 's lockdown would be relaxed from 28 May in a four-phase `` route map '' , but quickly relaxed more measures for the 29 May too .
As of 11 May , people were allowed to exercise for an unlimited amount of time outdoors .
Some of the new rules , which are part of phase one , started on 28 May , with others a few days later , although Ms Sturgeon did not say which ones .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : • People will be able to sit and sunbathe outdoors • Visits inside another household are not allowed • Non-contact sports like golf , fishing , bowls , outdoor swimming , canoeing and tennis will be allowed • People will be able to travel - preferably walk or cycle - to carry out activities , but they should try to stay close to home • Outdoor industries like agriculture and construction will resume • Garden centres will be allowed to open - but none of their cafes • Some services like social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the criminal justice system will resume From the 29 May , groups of up to eight people from two households may gather outdoors , as long as people are social distancing .
As part of its four-phase `` route map '' , lockdown measures to be relaxed in the future in Scotland include : Phase one but not now : • Teachers to return to work in June to prepare for schools reopening in new school year in August • Support for children going into primary one or moving form primary to secondary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of key workers , to have access to critical childcare , particularly outdoor nurseries • Meet outside with larger groups of friends and family , with social distancing • Meet people from another household indoors with social distancing • Indoor non-office-based workplaces , such as factories and labs , can resume once guidance is agreed • Small shops , outdoor markets , pubs and restaurants with outdoor space , and places of worships can open - with marriages and civil partnerships allowed with limited attendees • Closer to normal with different households meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reopen on 11 August but with a `` blended model '' of school and home learning • Childcare providers , larger shops , indoor pubs and restaurants , hairdressers , museums , cinemas , gyms and hotels can reopen • Live events with restricted numbers and funerals beyond close family • Relaxation of all restrictions `` in line with public health advice '' The Welsh government extended the lockdown on 8 May and further changes are being made from 1 June .
It has already relaxed a few rules , though .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ As of 15 May , people can carry out unlimited exercise outdoors but they must `` stay local '' , starting and ending at home and only with people from their household - with a quick break to eat something From 1 June , people from two different households in the same local area can meet up outdoors .
But they must continue to maintain social distancing and strict hand hygiene .
They must also stay local , meaning they must n't - as a general rule - travel more than five miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelling to work , to seek care or shopping for essentials if they are n't available locally .
The Northern Ireland Executive has a five-stage `` pathway to recovery '' plan for easing the lockdown but it does not have a timetable , rather depending on key health criteria being met .
What you can do now : • Groups of up to six people who do not share a household are allowed to meet outdoors two metres apart • Places of worship are open for private prayer , while drive-in church services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activities are allowed , including fishing , golf , tennis and some water sports • No restrictions on private travel , as long as it is in Northern Ireland • Use face coverings if you can not social distance • Groups of 10 people will be allowed to meet outdoors • Some non-contact team sports and indoor activities will be allowed • Non-food retail outlets and some libraries will be allowed to open • Phased return to office working but those who can should work from home • Gatherings of up to 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schooling for priority groups , with in-school and remote learning • All `` contact '' retail such as hairdressers , gyms and salons can open after a risk assessment • All school pupils go back on a part-time basis , with in-school and remote learning • Competitive sport to resume behind closed doors , or with spectator limits • Restaurants , pubs and cafes can open after a risk assessment , initially on a limited basis • Close physical contact sport allowed and return to full spectator competitive sport and live events • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to social distancing Next week from Monday to Thursday , Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After the Pandemic : Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over .
We 'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture , politics , economics , science and technology .
And you can take part too .
If you 'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to @ @ @ @ @ @ @

All four UK nations are continuing to loosen their lockdown measures to allow people more freedom.
However, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland do differ slightly from each other as they make their own decisions on health - and nobody can yet move across borders.
Each government's measures need to be reviewed every three weeks by law and are each based on scientific advice, such as keeping the 'R number' below one.
Sky News is keeping track of the rules for all four nations.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 COVID-19: PM unveils new 'Stay Alert' slogan
ENGLAND
Boris Johnson's "conditional plan" for easing the coronavirus lockdown in England previously set out three phases.
The slogan of "stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives" was changed to "stay alert, control the virus, save lives".
On 28 May, Mr Johnson gave his latest update on what restrictions will be lifted from 1 June, and added that further restrictions could be eased later in the month, such as more retail being allowed to open, as long as the R rate stays below one.
From 1 June:
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People can gather in groups of up to six people in public or private outdoor spaces, as long as social distancing is practised. They can play sports with the people that they meet, but only if it is possible to keep a two-metre space between them, such as tennis or football.
in public or private outdoor spaces, as long as social distancing is practised. They can play sports with the people that they meet, but only if it is possible to keep a two-metre space between them, such as tennis or football. Reception, year one, year six and nursery age children are allowed to go back to school - despite teaching unions expressing serious doubts
More than two million vulnerable people "shielding" from the virus are allowed to meet loved ones
People can visit outdoor retail spaces - such as outdoor markets and car showrooms where social distancing can be observed
People could already:
Travel to work if you cannot work from home, while avoiding public transport if possible. People using buses or trains are advised to wear a face covering
Spend time outdoors - picnicking or sunbathing, for example
Travel to an outdoor open space irrespective of distance, but not with someone from outside your household unless you can practise social distancing - for example by cycling
Take day trips to an outdoor open space in a private vehicle
Meet one other person from a different household outdoors, while following social distancing guidelines
Exercise outdoors as often as you would like - again keeping at least two metres apart
Use a tennis or a basketball court, or a golf course with members of your household, or one other person
Go to a garden centre
Students can return home if it is a permanent move
Go to property viewings in person and visit agents for both sales and rentals
Nannies and childminders can come to your house to look after your children, provided good public health measures are adhered to
Image: Advice on the two-metre rule when out and about remains the same
You still cannot do the following:
Exercise in an indoor sports court, gym or leisure centre, or go swimming in a public pool
Use an outdoor gym or playground
Visit a private or ticketed attraction
Leave your home to stay at another home
Share a private vehicle with someone from another household
Leave your home to stay at another home for a holiday or other purpose - including visiting second homes
Invite anyone other than close family or friends, and someone from the deceased's household, to a funeral
Fines
Fines for breaking lockdown rules increased from £60 to £100. Repeat offenders will see the fine double for each subsequent breach to a maximum of £3,200
Image: Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 will be the first to go back to school
Later in June
Secondary pupils with exams next year will hopefully get some time with teachers before the summer, the PM said
More non-essential retail can open their doors, including fashion and tech shops (15 June)
Adults living alone, including single parents with children under 18, will be able to form a "support bubble" with one other household, meaning they can meet inside and stay overnight (13 June)
July
Restaurants and hotels: July is the earliest point at which "some of the hospitality industry and other public places" could reopen, the PM said, but only if "they are safe and enforce social distancing"
Hairdressers: Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told Sky News that salons and barbers will not reopen until 4 July "at the very earliest"
Advice for over 70s:
Those over 70 should continue to take particular care to minimise contact with others outside their household.
If they do go out, they should be careful to maintain distance from others and should comply with social distancing rules.
Anyone who has been advised to shield by the NHS or their GP, including those 70 and over, should continue to do this until at least the end of June.
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SCOTLAND
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that Scotland's lockdown would be relaxed in a four-phase "route map".
Since 29 May, the new rules are:
Up to eight people from two households may gather outdoors, as long as people are social distancing
People are able to sit and sunbathe outdoors
Visits inside another household are not allowed
Non-contact sports like golf, fishing, bowls, outdoor swimming, canoeing and tennis are allowed
People are able to travel - preferably walk or cycle - to carry out activities, but they should try to stay close to home
Recycling and waste services resume
Outdoor industries like agriculture and construction resume
Garden centres are allowed to open - but none of their cafes
Some services like social work resume
Some parts of the criminal justice system resume
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:01 'Don't be distracted' by England COVID measures
As part of its four-phase "route map", lockdown measures to be relaxed in the future in Scotland include:
Phase one but not now:
Teachers to return to work in June to prepare for schools reopening in new school year in August
Support for children going into primary one or moving from primary to secondary school
More children, not just of key workers, to have access to critical childcare, particularly outdoor nurseries
Housing market to reopen
Gradual reopening of takeaway and drive-thru food outlets
Phase two:
Meet outside with larger groups of friends and family, with social distancing
Meet people from another household indoors with social distancing
Increased public transport capacity with peak time travel discouraged
University lab research to restart
Indoor non-office-based workplaces, such as factories and labs, can resume once guidance is agreed
People can move house
Small shops, outdoor markets, pubs and restaurants with outdoor space, and places of worships can open - with marriages and civil partnerships allowed with limited attendees
Scotland's sports minister has said professional football, rugby and horse racing will return behind closed doors during phase two of the easing of lockdown restrictions, however a date has not been set
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:41 Sturgeon outlines Scotland lockdown easing
Phase three:
Closer to normal with different households meeting - although with social distancing
Schools to reopen on 11 August but with a "blended model" of school and home learning
Childcare providers, larger shops, indoor pubs and restaurants, hairdressers, museums, cinemas, gyms and hotels can reopen
Live events with restricted numbers and funerals beyond close family
Dentists to fully reopen
Phase four:
Relaxation of all restrictions "in line with public health advice"
WALES
The Welsh government has announced a three-week cycle of further changes from 22 June.
Mark Drakeford, the first minister, has also told the tourism sector it can prepare to reopen, and take bookings for stays beginning on the 13 July.
From 22 June:
All non-essential retail can open within social distancing guidelines
Private prayer can take place in places of worship
Childcare facilities can begin to reopen
House viewings can take place and postponed property sales can be completed
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:37 Wales first to ease some lockdown measures
From 29 June:
Some school pupils will be able to return to school to catch up on work and prepare for September
From 6 July:
People will be able to travel freely throughout Wales for any reason
Existing measures:
People from two different households in the same local area can meet up outdoors, but they must continue to maintain social distancing and strict hand hygiene
They must also stay local, meaning they mustn't - as a general rule - travel more than five miles from home
Exceptions will be people travelling to work, to seek care or shopping for essentials if they aren't available locally
Vulnerable people who have been "shielding" from the virus have been advised they can exercise at times that are not too busy
People could carry out unlimited exercise outdoors but must "stay local", starting and ending at home and only with people from their household - with a quick break to eat something
Garden centres can reopen
Recycling centres and libraries can open
NORTHERN IRELAND:
The Northern Ireland Executive has a five-stage "pathway to recovery" plan for easing the lockdown and some rules will be relaxed on 8 June.
What you can do now:
Groups of up to six people who do not share a household are allowed to meet outdoors two metres apart
Garden and recycling centres have reopened
Places of worship are open for private prayer, while drive-in church services and cinemas are allowed
Non-contact outdoor activities are allowed, including fishing, golf, tennis and some water sports
No restrictions on private travel, as long as it is in Northern Ireland
Use face coverings if you cannot social distance
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:00 Life in lockdown in Northern Ireland
Step two:
Groups of 10 people will be allowed to meet outdoors
Some non-contact team sports and indoor activities will be allowed
Non-food retail outlets and some libraries will be allowed to open
Step three:
Phased return to office working but those who can should work from home
Gatherings of up to 30 people - with social distancing
Part-time schooling for priority groups, with in-school and remote learning
Museums, galleries, libraries to reopen
Concert and theatre rehearsals to resume
Image: An empty Belfast during the lockdown
Step four:
All "contact" retail such as hairdressers, gyms and salons can open after a risk assessment
All school pupils go back on a part-time basis, with in-school and remote learning
Staggering demand for public transport
Wider range of gatherings allowed, including church services - subject to social distancing
Competitive sport to resume behind closed doors, or with spectator limits
Leisure centres to open
Outdoor concerts allowed on a restricted basis
Step five:
Early-year schooling goes to full-time
Restaurants, pubs and cafes can open after a risk assessment, initially on a limited basis
Close physical contact sport allowed and return to full spectator competitive sport and live events
People can meet in large groups subject to social distancing
Next week from Monday to Thursday, Dermot Murnaghan will be hosting After The Pandemic: Our New World - a series of special live programmes about what our world will be like once the pandemic is over.
We'll be joined by some of the biggest names from the worlds of culture, politics, economics, science and technology. And you can take part too.
If you'd like to be in our virtual audience - from your own home - and put questions to the experts, email afterthepandemic@sky.uk