skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--You can meet a new person in the park every day, says health secretary

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has denied the government 's new coronavirus guidance is confusing as he urged Britons to apply the `` straightforward '' rules with `` common sense '' .
The government has relaxed some lockdown measures in England , which means people can now meet one member of a different household outside .
This is provided they stay two metres away from each other at all times .
Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland are yet to lift restrictions Mr Hancock explained how people in England could now meet a different person - individually - in a park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` being outside is safer than being inside '' , although he warned it is `` not zero risk '' .
`` We are making some baby steps , some relaxations but we 're doing it very , very carefully - because we do n't want the R rate to get above one and infections get out of control again '' , the health secretary told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show .
The government is not yet allowing people to see family members in their gardens or houses , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social distancing - and carers can continue to be employed .
Challenged over whether it was confusing for people that they could n't welcome their grandchildren or other family members into their home , but could allow their cleaners or carers into their houses , Mr Hancock disagreed .
`` The principles are really clear and the public have been really sensible so far , '' he said .
`` This is why an appeal to people 's common sense is very , very sensible in and of itself .
`` The great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing means , why we need to do it - sadly , no one wants social distancing rules , but they are important .
`` The principles are : outside is better than inside , stay two metres away , wash your hands and clean the surfaces and see as few people as you can outside of your household , because that 's how the virus spreads .
`` But we do also , at the same time , need to get people back to work . ''
The health secretary added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules with common sense , based on the facts about this disease which we do know - like that it spreads less outside , but still does . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hancock also explained why the government is now recommending people wear face coverings on public transport or some shops - although not in offices or schools .
`` There is some evidence - it 's weak - but there is some evidence that a face covering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indoor place where there are other people who you do n't see regularly , '' he said .
`` If you 're stuck in an office with them for a long time a face covering does n't help , or in a school , for instance .
`` That 's why we do n't recommend them for offices or schools .
`` But , for instance , if you 're on public transport you might be in the vicinity of somebody for a period of time - maybe 15 or 20 minutes - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has denied the government's new coronavirus guidance is confusing as he urged Britons to apply the "straightforward" rules with "common sense".
The government has relaxed some lockdown measures in England, which means people can now meet one member of a different household outside.
This is provided they stay two metres away from each other at all times.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are yet to lift restrictions
Image: People in England can now meet in a park, but not in each other's homes Pic: Ben Cawthra/Shutterstock
Mr Hancock explained how people in England could now meet a different person - individually - in a park every day, as he described how "being outside is safer than being inside", although he warned it is "not zero risk".
"We are making some baby steps, some relaxations but we're doing it very, very carefully - because we don't want the R rate to get above one and infections get out of control again", the health secretary told Sky News' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show.
The government is not yet allowing people to see family members in their gardens or houses, although cleaners - as long as they practise social distancing - and carers can continue to be employed.
Challenged over whether it was confusing for people that they couldn't welcome their grandchildren or other family members into their home, but could allow their cleaners or carers into their houses, Mr Hancock disagreed.
"The principles are really clear and the public have been really sensible so far," he said.
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"This is why an appeal to people's common sense is very, very sensible in and of itself.
"The great British public have really understood what social distancing means, why we need to do it - sadly, no one wants social distancing rules, but they are important.
"The principles are: outside is better than inside, stay two metres away, wash your hands and clean the surfaces and see as few people as you can outside of your household, because that's how the virus spreads.
"But we do also, at the same time, need to get people back to work."
The health secretary added: "This is all about applying straightforward rules with common sense, based on the facts about this disease which we do know - like that it spreads less outside, but still does."
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Mr Hancock also explained why the government is now recommending people wear face coverings on public transport or some shops - although not in offices or schools.
"There is some evidence - it's weak - but there is some evidence that a face covering can help if you're at an indoor place where there are other people who you don't see regularly," he said.
"If you're stuck in an office with them for a long time a face covering doesn't help, or in a school, for instance.
"That's why we don't recommend them for offices or schools.
"But, for instance, if you're on public transport you might be in the vicinity of somebody for a period of time - maybe 15 or 20 minutes - where a face covering can help."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Commuters told to face away from each other when they can't social distance

People using public transport in England have been told they should avoid eating and drinking while travelling and to face away from others when they can not maintain social distancing .
The Department for Transport has issued new guidance on how to travel safely during the coronavirus pandemic .
It comes as the government begins to ease the COVID-19 lockdown , which was introduced at the end of March to slow the spread of the virus .
Those who can not work from home are being `` actively encouraged '' to return to work this week , raising the prospect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , trains , trams and the London Underground .
Commuters packed some Tube trains the morning after Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed his plan for easing the lockdown in England .
Footage showed platforms at Canning Town and Queensbury stations on the Jubilee Line filled with passengers early on Monday morning .
A Tube driver , who asked to remain anonymous , said there was `` no social distancing going on '' .
Unions have expressed concerns about people returning to work , warning both passengers and staff could be put at risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union ( RMT ) has advised its members not to work if they felt unsafe .
The PM has downplayed suggestions there will be a `` sudden big flood '' of people heading back to work .
`` I think a lot of people will now start to think whether they fall into that category , whether they could think about going back to work , '' he told Monday 's COVID-19 briefing .
The DfT guidance urges people to consider driving , cycling or walking to work to make sure there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use public transport to do so safely .
Those who do travel should be `` thinking carefully about the times , routes and ways you travel '' .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has warned that even as services begin to return to normal , the two-metre social distancing requirement will mean there is only capacity for one in ten passengers on parts of the network .
People who use public transport are recommended to : • Keep two metres apart from others wherever possible • Wear a face covering if they can • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where possible • Avoid travelling at rush hour if they can • Wash or sanitise their hands as soon as possible before and after travel • Follow advice from staff and be considerate to others When on public transport , passengers should minimise the time they spend near other people and avoid physical contact with them .
The DfT guidance recognises that `` there may be situations where you ca n't keep a suitable distance from people '' , like on busier services or at peak times .
`` In these cases you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face away from other people , '' the guidance says .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker It goes on : `` The risk of infection increases the closer you are to another person with the virus and the amount of time you spend in close contact . ''
Transport operators have been urged to rearrange , remove or limit seating on services to try and make sure that social distancing can be adhered to .
This could include blocking off seats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rid of face-to-face seating .
Single users of black cabs and minicabs are advised to sit in the back left-hand seat of cars .
Other steps people are advised to take include : • Waiting for passengers to get off first before they board • Making sure they maintain social distancing , where possible , including at busy entrances , exits , under canopies , bus stops , platforms or outside of stations • Being prepared to queue or take a different entrance or exit at stations • Waiting for the next service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distance on a train , bus or coach • Avoiding consuming food and drink on public transport , where possible • Being aware of pregnant , older and disabled people who may need a seat or extra space • Being aware that some individuals may have hidden disabilities The transport secretary said : `` Transport operators and staff have been working hard to ensure that people who need to get to work are able to do so , including crucial NHS workers and all those on the front line of the fight against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and walking revolution we are launching , and clear guidance to passengers and operators published today , we can all play our part by following the advice and reducing pressure on public transport .
`` If we take these steps , all those who need to use public transport should feel confident that they can do so safely , with the space to maintain social distancing as far as possible . ''
Labour 's shadow transport secretary Jim McMahon said : `` This guidance fails to answer the fundamental question , how do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when it 's currently running at a fraction of capacity ?
`` The scenes we saw on public transport services yesterday were unsurprising when you order a return to work with 12 hours ' notice with no official guidance on how workers can keep safe and fail to put in place suitable measures to deal with demand . ''

People using public transport in England have been told they should avoid eating and drinking while travelling and to face away from others when they cannot maintain social distancing.
The Department for Transport has issued new guidance on how to travel safely during the coronavirus pandemic.
It comes as the government begins to ease the COVID-19 lockdown, which was introduced at the end of March to slow the spread of the virus.
Image: The DfT guidance urges people to consider driving, cycling or walking to work. File pic
Those who cannot work from home are being "actively encouraged" to return to work this week, raising the prospect of increased numbers of people on buses, trains, trams and the London Underground.
Commuters packed some Tube trains the morning after Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed his plan for easing the lockdown in England.
Footage showed platforms at Canning Town and Queensbury stations on the Jubilee Line filled with passengers early on Monday morning.
A Tube driver, who asked to remain anonymous, said there was "no social distancing going on".
Unions have expressed concerns about people returning to work, warning both passengers and staff could be put at risk.
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) has advised its members not to work if they felt unsafe.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 Tube packed day after PM's speech
The PM has downplayed suggestions there will be a "sudden big flood" of people heading back to work.
"I think a lot of people will now start to think whether they fall into that category, whether they could think about going back to work," he told Monday's COVID-19 briefing.
The DfT guidance urges people to consider driving, cycling or walking to work to make sure there is enough capacity for those who need to use public transport to do so safely.
Those who do travel should be "thinking carefully about the times, routes and ways you travel".
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has warned that even as services begin to return to normal, the two-metre social distancing requirement will mean there is only capacity for one in ten passengers on parts of the network.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:11 Hancock denies new rules are confusing
People who use public transport are recommended to:
Keep two metres apart from others wherever possible
Wear a face covering if they can
Use contactless payment to complete their trip where possible
Avoid travelling at rush hour if they can
Wash or sanitise their hands as soon as possible before and after travel
Follow advice from staff and be considerate to others
When on public transport, passengers should minimise the time they spend near other people and avoid physical contact with them.
The DfT guidance recognises that "there may be situations where you can't keep a suitable distance from people", like on busier services or at peak times.
"In these cases you should avoid physical contact, try to face away from other people," the guidance says.
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It goes on: "The risk of infection increases the closer you are to another person with the virus and the amount of time you spend in close contact."
Transport operators have been urged to rearrange, remove or limit seating on services to try and make sure that social distancing can be adhered to.
This could include blocking off seats in close proximity to others and getting rid of face-to-face seating.
Single users of black cabs and minicabs are advised to sit in the back left-hand seat of cars.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 Coronavirus: PM announces new lockdown rules
Other steps people are advised to take include:
Waiting for passengers to get off first before they board
Making sure they maintain social distancing, where possible, including at busy entrances, exits, under canopies, bus stops, platforms or outside of stations
Being prepared to queue or take a different entrance or exit at stations
Waiting for the next service if they cannot safely keep your distance on a train, bus or coach
Respecting other people's space while travelling
Avoiding consuming food and drink on public transport, where possible
Being aware of pregnant, older and disabled people who may need a seat or extra space
Being aware that some individuals may have hidden disabilities
The transport secretary said: "Transport operators and staff have been working hard to ensure that people who need to get to work are able to do so, including crucial NHS workers and all those on the front line of the fight against the virus.
"Alongside the cycling and walking revolution we are launching, and clear guidance to passengers and operators published today, we can all play our part by following the advice and reducing pressure on public transport.
"If we take these steps, all those who need to use public transport should feel confident that they can do so safely, with the space to maintain social distancing as far as possible."
Labour's shadow transport secretary Jim McMahon said: "This guidance fails to answer the fundamental question, how do you stop the transport network being overwhelmed when it's currently running at a fraction of capacity?
"The scenes we saw on public transport services yesterday were unsurprising when you order a return to work with 12 hours' notice with no official guidance on how workers can keep safe and fail to put in place suitable measures to deal with demand."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Class sizes limited to 15 and staggered drop-off times for England schools

Primary school class sizes should be limited to 15 pupils , desks should be spaced as far apart as possible and outdoor space should be utilised , the government 's new guidance says .
The Department for Education ( DfE ) guidelines advise schools to stagger break times , as well as drop-off and pick-up times , to reduce the number of pupils moving around .
Schools should also consider introducing one-way circulation , or placing a divider down the middle of corridors .
The advice also suggests nurseries and schools should remove soft furnishings and toys that are hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children in the same small groups at all times each day .
Those who can not keep pupils in small groups have been told to discuss options with their local authority or trust , with the possibility of sending some children to nearby schools .
It comes after the government 's 50-page COVID-19 recovery strategy detailed plans for all primary school pupils in England to be back in the classroom for a month before the summer .
The government expects children to be able to return to nurseries and childcare settings , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six pupils to be back from 1 June .
Families who choose to keep their children at home when schools reopen will not face fines .
But parents will be strongly encouraged to take up the places - unless the child or a family member is shielding , or the child is particularly vulnerable .
The guidance says most staff in education settings will not require PPE when they open up , but it should be worn if a pupil becomes unwell with symptoms of COVID-19 while in the setting .
While acknowledging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to remain two metres apart , the advice says demand for childcare is `` likely to be lower than usual '' which `` should allow for small group working '' .
However , in some cases , it may be necessary to introduce a temporary cap on numbers to ensure safety is prioritised .
The DfE has also said pupils eligible to return on 1 June will have access to testing if they display coronavirus symptoms , alongside symptomatic members of their household .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spreaker Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said : `` I know how hard schools , colleges , early years settings and parents are working to make sure children and young people can continue to learn at home , and I can not thank them enough for that .
`` But nothing can replace being in the classroom , which is why I want to get children back to school as soon as it is safe to do so .
`` The latest scientific advice indicates it will be safe for more children to return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will continue to limit the overall numbers in school and introduce protective measures to prevent transmission . ''
Paul Whiteman , general secretary of school leaders ' union NAHT , said : `` It seems wildly optimistic , to the point of being irresponsible , to suggest that we will be in a position to return all primary children to school within the next seven weeks . ''

Primary school class sizes should be limited to 15 pupils, desks should be spaced as far apart as possible and outdoor space should be utilised, the government's new guidance says.
The Department for Education (DfE) guidelines advise schools to stagger break times, as well as drop-off and pick-up times, to reduce the number of pupils moving around.
Schools should also consider introducing one-way circulation, or placing a divider down the middle of corridors.
The advice also suggests nurseries and schools should remove soft furnishings and toys that are hard to clean - and try to keep children in the same small groups at all times each day.
Image: The guidance says desks should be spaced as far apart as possible
Those who cannot keep pupils in small groups have been told to discuss options with their local authority or trust, with the possibility of sending some children to nearby schools.
It comes after the government's 50-page COVID-19 recovery strategy detailed plans for all primary school pupils in England to be back in the classroom for a month before the summer.
The government expects children to be able to return to nurseries and childcare settings, and for Reception, Year one and Year six pupils to be back from 1 June.
Families who choose to keep their children at home when schools reopen will not face fines.
But parents will be strongly encouraged to take up the places - unless the child or a family member is shielding, or the child is particularly vulnerable.
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The guidance says most staff in education settings will not require PPE when they open up, but it should be worn if a pupil becomes unwell with symptoms of COVID-19 while in the setting.
While acknowledging many young pupils will not be able to remain two metres apart, the advice says demand for childcare is "likely to be lower than usual" which "should allow for small group working".
However, in some cases, it may be necessary to introduce a temporary cap on numbers to ensure safety is prioritised.
The DfE has also said pupils eligible to return on 1 June will have access to testing if they display coronavirus symptoms, alongside symptomatic members of their household.
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Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "I know how hard schools, colleges, early years settings and parents are working to make sure children and young people can continue to learn at home, and I cannot thank them enough for that.
"But nothing can replace being in the classroom, which is why I want to get children back to school as soon as it is safe to do so.
"The latest scientific advice indicates it will be safe for more children to return to school from 1 June, but we will continue to limit the overall numbers in school and introduce protective measures to prevent transmission."
Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders' union NAHT, said: "It seems wildly optimistic, to the point of being irresponsible, to suggest that we will be in a position to return all primary children to school within the next seven weeks."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Five-step plan for NI to emerge from lockdown unveiled

Northern Ireland 's devolved government has published a five-step plan for gradually emerging from lockdown as science permits .
Unlike plans announced by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar , the Stormont one is not time-specific .
While it will be reviewed every three weeks , the power-sharing coalition in Belfast agreed their plan would be led by science , not an `` arbitrary timeframe '' .
The implementation of each phase will be dictated by medical and scientific advice , the capacity of the NHS and the impact on wider public health .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six people who do not share a household will be allowed to meet outdoors while maintaining social distancing .
Outdoor spaces and public sport amenities will also be included in the first step .
Walking , running , cycling , some water activities , golf and tennis are in stage one .
The current position just says exercise is permitted .
People who are unable to work from home will be encouraged to go to work on a phased basis if the R reproductive rate at which COVID-19 spreads continues to decline below @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how many people , on average , will be infected for every one person who has the disease .
If the R is one , then one person with the disease infects one other person .
As long as the R value is below one , the number of daily cases will continue to fall .
Large outdoor-based retailers such as garden centres will be permitted to reopen in the first step , as well as drive-through cinemas .
Drive-through church services will be available and churches will open for private prayer at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , large indoor gatherings , nightclubs , concerts , close physical contact sports , restaurants , cafes , pubs and early years education will be included .
First Minister Arlene Foster said : `` We recognise how difficult the current restrictions are .
But those restrictions , and the determined people of Northern Ireland who have adhered to them , have saved lives and continue to do so .
`` We do n't want to keep any restriction in place any longer than we have to , but in relaxing any measure we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the transmission of the virus and our ability to save lives .
`` The executive 's recovery strategy sets out a pathway for us to emerge from lockdown in the safest way possible . ''

Northern Ireland's devolved government has published a five-step plan for gradually emerging from the coronavirus lockdown as science permits.
Unlike plans announced by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar, the Stormont scheme is not time-specific.
While it will be reviewed every three weeks, the power-sharing coalition in Belfast agreed their plan would be led by science, not an "arbitrary timeframe".
Their message remains 'Stay Home, Save Lives'.
Image: People pictured socially distancing in Belfast
The implementation of each phase will be dictated by medical and scientific advice, the capacity of the NHS and the impact on wider public health.
In step one, groups of four to six people who do not share a household will be allowed to meet outdoors while maintaining social distancing.
Outdoor spaces and public sport amenities will be included in the first step.
Walking, running, cycling, some water activities, golf and tennis are also in stage one.
The current position from the devolved government just says exercise is permitted.
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People who are unable to work from home will be encouraged to go to work on a phased basis if the R reproductive rate at which COVID-19 spreads continues to decline below one.
R is a measure of how many people, on average, will be infected for every one person who has the disease.
If the R is one, then one person with the disease infects one other person. As long as the R value is below one, the number of daily cases will continue to fall.
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Large outdoor-based retailers such as garden centres will be permitted to reopen in the first step, as well as drive-through cinemas.
Drive-through church services will be available and churches will open for private prayer at an early stage.
In step five, large indoor gatherings, nightclubs, concerts, close physical contact sports, restaurants, cafes, pubs and early years education will be included.
First Minister Arlene Foster said: "We recognise how difficult the current restrictions are. But those restrictions, and the determined people of Northern Ireland who have adhered to them, have saved lives and continue to do so.
"We don't want to keep any restriction in place any longer than we have to, but in relaxing any measure we must be cognisant of the potential effects in the transmission of the virus and our ability to save lives.
"The executive's recovery strategy sets out a pathway for us to emerge from lockdown in the safest way possible."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Coronavirus: MPs to be ordered back to parliament to 'set an example'

MPs have been told they should be working in Westminster at the start of June to `` set an example '' to the rest of the country as lockdown is eased further .
Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg signalled the historic `` virtual parliament '' measures which saw MPs cast their first ever online votes on Tuesday due coronavirus will soon come to an end .
He made the announcement ahead of confirmation the rules letting politicians debate and challenge ministers via videolink will be extended for another few weeks .
The changes were brought in so MPs could stay at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the COVID-19 pandemic , which has so far killed at least 32,000 people .
But Mr Rees-Mogg signalled that as Prime Minister Boris Johnson presses for people to start going back to work where it is safe to do so in England , MPs would soon have to do so too .
`` It is clear that soon parliament must set an example of how we move back gradually to a fully-function country again - our constituents would expect nothing less , '' he told the Commons .
`` So while we must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it is vital that when we are asking other people to work and go to their places of work if they can not do so from home we should not be the ones who are exempt from that .
`` Indeed , we should be leading by example . ''
The announcement puts MPs from Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland in a difficult position - as their devolved governments are still enforcing the `` stay at home '' rules .
The Scottish National Party 's John Nicholson said the move would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to break guidelines north of the border and would `` expose our constituents to danger '' .
Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain added : `` The current advice is that people should work at home if the can - we have proven that MPs can .
`` As yet , the government has published no guidance as to how MPs and staff are meant to keep a two metres distance from each other whilst working in parliament .
`` Perhaps most worryingly of all , MPs and staff would be further filling up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and forth to communities all over the country . ''
A government source told Sky News that `` MPs are critical workers so nationwide and throughout they have been encouraged to go to work if they can not work from home '' .
When asked why the rules had to be changed if the guidance for critical workers such as MPs remains the same , the source said : `` The measures were only ever intended to be temporary .
`` As many members said this evening , hybridity has a damaging effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to progress its legislative agenda as it would like to - the two constitutional roles of parliament .
`` This is all provisional , subject to the medical advice . ''

MPs have been told they should be working in Westminster at the start of June to "set an example" to the rest of the country as lockdown is eased further.
Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg signalled the historic "virtual parliament" measures which saw MPs cast their first ever online votes on Tuesday due coronavirus will soon come to an end.
He made the announcement ahead of confirmation the rules letting politicians debate and challenge ministers via videolink will be extended for another few weeks.
Image: Unprecedented measures include remote voting and speaking via videolink
The changes were brought in so MPs could stay at home but still scrutinise the government during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has so far killed at least 32,000 people.
But Mr Rees-Mogg signalled that as Prime Minister Boris Johnson presses for people to start going back to work where it is safe to do so in England, MPs would soon have to do so too.
Image: Mr Rees-Mogg said MPs 'should be leading by example'
"It is clear that soon parliament must set an example of how we move back gradually to a fully-function country again - our constituents would expect nothing less," he told the Commons.
"So while we must move in step with public health guidance, it is vital that when we are asking other people to work and go to their places of work if they cannot do so from home we should not be the ones who are exempt from that.
"Indeed, we should be leading by example."
The announcement puts MPs from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in a difficult position - as their devolved governments are still enforcing the "stay at home" rules.
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The Scottish National Party's John Nicholson said the move would only "set the wrong example" to break guidelines north of the border and would "expose our constituents to danger".
Image: The 'stay at home' message remains in force in Scotland
Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain added: "The current advice is that people should work at home if the can - we have proven that MPs can.
"As yet, the government has published no guidance as to how MPs and staff are meant to keep a two metres distance from each other whilst working in parliament.
"Perhaps most worryingly of all, MPs and staff would be further filling up public transport networks and presumably travelling back and forth to communities all over the country."
A government source told Sky News that "MPs are critical workers so nationwide and throughout they have been encouraged to go to work if they cannot work from home".
When asked why the rules had to be changed if the guidance for critical workers such as MPs remains the same, the source said: "The measures were only ever intended to be temporary.
"As many members said this evening, hybridity has a damaging effect on scrutiny and neither is the government able to progress its legislative agenda as it would like to - the two constitutional roles of parliament.
"This is all provisional, subject to the medical advice."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Estate agents to reopen as England's housing market returns

Restrictions on the property market and construction sector , designed to combat the spread of coronavirus , are being relaxed .
The new guidance for England includes the green light for property viewings in person and visits to agents for both sales and rentals .
The government said show homes can also open while removal companies - along with other essential market components - may also fully resume work .
It is estimated that more than 450,000 buyers and renters have been unable to progress their plans to move home since March .
It stressed the relaxation of the rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other measures designed to combat the virus .
An industry agreement also allows a resumption of , and extended working hours on , construction sites - with a 'Safe Working Charter ' launched by the government and the Home Builders Federation to enable more delayed projects to be completed .
Recent research by property website Zoopla said transactions worth £82bn had been put on hold .
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said : `` Our step by step plan is based on the latest guidance to ensure the safety and protection of everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now safely move forward , and those waiting patiently to move can now do so . ''
Stewart Baseley , executive chairman of the Home Builders Federation , hoped the new Charter for construction sites would kick-start a vital sector for the economy .
He said : `` Over the past week or so many house builders have commenced a gradual return to work , in a structured way that ensures the safety of its workforce and the general public .
`` The industry sustains hundreds of thousands of people in numerous roles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the country .
`` A resumption of work will play a major part in helping the economy recover as well as delivering the homes the country needs .
`` It should also provide the supply chain with the confidence it needs to accelerate its own restart . ''

Restrictions on the property market and construction sector, designed to combat the spread of coronavirus, are being relaxed.
The new guidance for England includes the green light for property viewings in person and visits to agents for both sales and rentals.
The government said show homes can also open while removal companies - along with other essential market components - may also fully resume work.
It is estimated that more than 450,000 buyers and renters have been unable to progress their plans to move home since March.
Image: The government estimates the plans of more than 450,000 buyers and renters have been frustrated by the lockdown
It stressed the relaxation of the rules could only work under strict social distancing and other measures designed to combat the virus.
An industry agreement also allows a resumption of, and extended working hours on, construction sites - with a 'Safe Working Charter' launched by the government and the Home Builders Federation to enable more delayed projects to be completed.
Image: The construction sector has agreed to stagger work times to ease transport pressures
Plans include staggered working times to ease rush hour demands on public transport.
Recent research by property website Zoopla said transactions worth £82bn had been put on hold.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said: "Our step by step plan is based on the latest guidance to ensure the safety and protection of everyone involved.
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"This critical industry can now safely move forward, and those waiting patiently to move can now do so."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:04 'Going back to work puts my family at risk'
Stewart Baseley, executive chairman of the Home Builders Federation, hoped the new Charter for construction sites would kick-start a vital sector for the economy.
He said: "Over the past week or so many house builders have commenced a gradual return to work, in a structured way that ensures the safety of its workforce and the general public.
"The industry sustains hundreds of thousands of people in numerous roles and associated sectors, boosting local economies across the country.
"A resumption of work will play a major part in helping the economy recover as well as delivering the homes the country needs.
"It should also provide the supply chain with the confidence it needs to accelerate its own restart."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Furlough scheme extended - and there will be no cut in support

The government scheme which is supporting 7.5 million workers during the coronavirus pandemic will be extended until the end of October , the chancellor has announced .
Rishi Sunak said the furlough scheme , which pays 80 % of an employee 's salary up to £2,500 a month , will remain unchanged until the end of July as the COVID-19 lockdown continues .
From that point it will continue , but employers will be expected to begin footing some of the multi-billion pound bill .
Staff will still receive the current level of support , through a combination of state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Commons , the chancellor said that from August there would be greater flexibility to allow furloughed staff to start going back to work .
`` Employers currently using the scheme will be able to bring furloughed employees back part-time , '' Mr Sunak said .
`` And we will ask employers to start sharing with the government the cost of paying people 's salaries . ''
The chancellor said further details would be set out at the end of the month .
`` I 'm extending the scheme because I wo n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on it , '' Mr Sunak told MPs .
`` Our message today is simple : we stood behind Britain 's workers and businesses as we came into this crisis , and we will stand behind them as we come through the other side . ''
The announcement came in response to an urgent question from Labour 's shadow chancellor , Anneliese Dodds .
She said she had only heard about the chancellor 's changes `` in the last few seconds '' and will look at them `` very , very carefully '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attributed to government officials in media reports suggesting that people had to be `` weaned off an addiction '' to the scheme .
Ms Dodds said people do not want to be furloughed , adding : `` It 's critically important they are not penalised for that choice .
`` We welcome the flexibility mentioned , we 've asked for this repeatedly . ''
The chancellor said in response that he had never used the phrase in connection with the furlough scheme and it was `` not one I agree with '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheme wants to be on this scheme , '' Mr Sunak continued .
`` People up and down this country believe in the dignity of their work , going to work , providing for their families , it 's not their fault their business has been asked to close or asked to stay at home .
`` That is why I established this scheme to support these people and their livelihoods at this critical time . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the SNP , queried whether the furlough scheme could be continued in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland if they keep the lockdown in force longer than England .
Boris Johnson 's government has begun easing some of the lockdown restrictions in England , but the devolved nations are sticking with the original `` stay at home '' advice at the moment .
Mr Sunak responded : `` This is now an extension for four months to the end of October which will provide eight months in total to all regions and all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I think , a very good and generous runway for businesses and firms to plan . ''
The chancellor also revealed that self-employed people could start receiving cash payments from the government to make up for lost earnings from `` as early as next week '' .
`` The scheme to support them goes live tomorrow ahead of schedule , '' Mr Sunak said in response to Labour MP Meg Hillier .
`` Those who are self-employed whose returns of earnings we are aware of ... are already being contacted , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and they will receive cash in their accounts for a three-month grant from as early as next week . ''
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said the furlough extension `` will be a big relief for millions '' .
`` Changing the rules to allow part-time working is key to enabling a gradual and safe return to work , '' she said .
`` And maintaining the rate at 80 % is a win for the pay packets of working families . ''
Dame Carolyn Fairbairn , director-general of the Confederation of British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detail .
She also called for ministers to be willing to be flexible if there is a second peak .
`` Introducing much-needed flexibility is extremely welcome , '' Dame Carolyn said .
`` It will prepare the ground for firms that are reawakening , while helping those who remain in hibernation .
`` That 's essential as the UK economy revives step-by-step , while supporting livelihoods . ''
Chancellor may be delaying much of the pain , not preventing it Analysis by Joe Pike , political correspondent As with the lockdown , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to introduce the `` Job Retention Scheme '' than withdraw it .
Rishi Sunak 's original intention was to freeze the UK economy , putting it in a temporary cryogenic state until the virus threat had passed , allowing companies to restart from where they left off rather than rebuilding from the ground up .
And crucially the government was desperate to avoid mass redundancies and mass unemployment .
But defrosting is difficult , and business groups have warned that many of the 7.5 million people furloughed will be laid off if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big announcement from Mr Sunak - extending the scheme in full until the end of July , then gradually reducing it until the end of October - has been widely welcomed .
The Trades Union Congress says the government has 'listened ' and the news will be ' a big relief to millions of working families ' .
However that big relief comes with a big price tag .
Some estimates suggest it will cost an extra £13bn just to extend the scheme until the end of July .
And we will only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extension will work at the end of this month .
Most importantly we still do not know what decisions firms will make ahead of August : the point they either start shouldering part of the burden or lay off staff .
The chancellor claims today 's announcement provides a `` generous runway to businesses to plan against '' , and it certainly avoids the cliff-edge so many had worried about .
Yet with the world bracing for recession , and UK consumer confidence at a record low , Mr Sunak may just be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preventing it .

The government scheme which is supporting 7.5 million workers during the coronavirus pandemic will be extended until the end of October, the chancellor has announced.
Rishi Sunak said the furlough scheme, which pays 80% of an employee's salary up to £2,500 a month, will remain unchanged until the end of July as the COVID-19 lockdown continues.
From that point it will continue, but employers will be expected to begin footing some of the multi-billion pound bill.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 13:02 Redundancy worries once furlough scheme ends
Staff will still receive the current level of support, through a combination of state and employer contributions.
Addressing MPs in the Commons, the chancellor said that from August there would be greater flexibility to allow furloughed staff to start going back to work.
"Employers currently using the scheme will be able to bring furloughed employees back part-time," Mr Sunak said.
"And we will ask employers to start sharing with the government the cost of paying people's salaries."
The chancellor said further details would be set out at the end of the month.
"I'm extending the scheme because I won't give up on the people who rely on it," Mr Sunak told MPs.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:03 PM takes questions from public
"Our message today is simple: we stood behind Britain's workers and businesses as we came into this crisis, and we will stand behind them as we come through the other side."
The announcement came in response to an urgent question from Labour's shadow chancellor, Anneliese Dodds.
She said she had only heard about the chancellor's changes "in the last few seconds" and will look at them "very, very carefully".
The shadow chancellor also raised comments attributed to government officials in media reports suggesting that people had to be "weaned off an addiction" to the scheme.
Ms Dodds said people do not want to be furloughed, adding: "It's critically important they are not penalised for that choice.
"We welcome the flexibility mentioned, we've asked for this repeatedly."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:27 Do you understand the new rules?
The chancellor said in response that he had never used the phrase in connection with the furlough scheme and it was "not one I agree with".
"Nobody who is on the furlough scheme wants to be on this scheme," Mr Sunak continued.
"People up and down this country believe in the dignity of their work, going to work, providing for their families, it's not their fault their business has been asked to close or asked to stay at home.
"That is why I established this scheme to support these people and their livelihoods at this critical time."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Alison Thewliss, Treasury spokeswoman for the SNP, queried whether the furlough scheme could be continued in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland if they keep the lockdown in force longer than England.
Boris Johnson's government has begun easing some of the lockdown restrictions in England, but the devolved nations are sticking with the original "stay at home" advice at the moment.
Mr Sunak responded: "This is now an extension for four months to the end of October which will provide eight months in total to all regions and all sectors of the United Kingdom and provides, I think, a very good and generous runway for businesses and firms to plan."
The chancellor also revealed that self-employed people could start receiving cash payments from the government to make up for lost earnings from "as early as next week".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:04 Who is most affected by the coronavirus?
"The scheme to support them goes live tomorrow ahead of schedule," Mr Sunak said in response to Labour MP Meg Hillier.
"Those who are self-employed whose returns of earnings we are aware of... are already being contacted, they will be able to apply from tomorrow and they will receive cash in their accounts for a three-month grant from as early as next week."
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said the furlough extension "will be a big relief for millions".
"Changing the rules to allow part-time working is key to enabling a gradual and safe return to work," she said.
"And maintaining the rate at 80% is a win for the pay packets of working families."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:21 Starmer: 'We can't go back to business as usual'
Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, director-general of the Confederation of British Industry, said businesses will want more detail.
She also called for ministers to be willing to be flexible if there is a second peak.
"Introducing much-needed flexibility is extremely welcome," Dame Carolyn said.
"It will prepare the ground for firms that are reawakening, while helping those who remain in hibernation.
"That's essential as the UK economy revives step-by-step, while supporting livelihoods."
Chancellor may be delaying much of the pain, not preventing it
Analysis by Joe Pike, political correspondent
As with the lockdown, it was always going to be easier to introduce the "Job Retention Scheme" than withdraw it.
Rishi Sunak's original intention was to freeze the UK economy, putting it in a temporary cryogenic state until the virus threat had passed, allowing companies to restart from where they left off rather than rebuilding from the ground up.
And crucially the government was desperate to avoid mass redundancies and mass unemployment.
But defrosting is difficult, and business groups have warned that many of the 7.5 million people furloughed will be laid off if the scheme ends too fast.
Today's big announcement from Mr Sunak - extending the scheme in full until the end of July, then gradually reducing it until the end of October - has been widely welcomed.
Image: The chancellor is hoping to avoid the 'cliff-edge' cut-off of the furlough scheme
The Trades Union Congress says the government has 'listened' and the news will be 'a big relief to millions of working families'.
However that big relief comes with a big price tag. Some estimates suggest it will cost an extra £13bn just to extend the scheme until the end of July.
And we will only get the full details of how that extension will work at the end of this month.
Most importantly we still do not know what decisions firms will make ahead of August: the point they either start shouldering part of the burden or lay off staff.
The chancellor claims today's announcement provides a "generous runway to businesses to plan against", and it certainly avoids the cliff-edge so many had worried about.
Yet with the world bracing for recession, and UK consumer confidence at a record low, Mr Sunak may just be delaying much of the pain, not preventing it.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Care homes 'almost compelled' to take people who may have COVID-19

Care homes have been `` almost compelled '' to take people who have not been tested for coronavirus , Sky News has been told .
Official statistics show deaths in care homes made up 40.4 % of the overall number of COVID-19 fatalities across England and Wales in the week to 1 May .
Sky News has revealed several councils threatened to withhold funding to help care homes deal with the coronavirus outbreak if they did not agree to take in patients with the illness .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chair of the National Care Association , said the crisis had been exacerbated by the existing arrangement between care home providers and councils .
Speaking following a Sky News ' special report on deaths in care homes , she said : `` It 's one of those things where you think common sense would prevail , that if somebody has n't been tested as being negative , why would we put them into an environment where there are other vulnerable people at risk ?
`` Providers have told us that they were almost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes because they had a contract with the [ local ] authority to do so .
`` I think that these are very challenging decisions that have been taken by individuals that have compelled the sector to move in that way . ''
It comes after Sky News reported on the death of 64-year-old Iris Critchle , who continued to go into work as housekeeper at the care home where she worked in Macclesfield , Cheshire .
Microbiologist Dr Simon Clarke told Sky News that authorities had effectively been `` pouring fuel on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak .
`` We were told that this is a disease that will really affect elderly and infirm people , and some people with underlying health conditions , '' he said .
`` This is not a surprise that elderly and infirm people should be most at risk .
`` I assume that people were shipped out of hospitals to make room for what they knew was coming .
`` Sending them out from hospitals untested into the care homes and then not giving the care homes sufficient PPE really is just pouring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Simon Walls , the clinical lead at St Cecilia 's nursing home , said the virus likely made it into his facility from a patient discharged from hospital who was asymptomatic , then grew ill and went back into hospital , where she died .
`` We were n't able to get tests to test the residents we thought may have had COVID-19 , '' he said .
`` Unfortunately those people passed away .
We did n't know if they died from COVID-19 or natural causes .
But my suspicions are the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've documented because of the testing . ''
Asked by Sky News whether he wished to apologise to the families of those who had died in care homes because the government had not done enough to protect them , Health Secretary Matt Hancock previously insisted doing so had been a `` top priority from the start '' .
`` Making sure that care homes have the support they need has been absolutely front of mind , in fact I can remember in one of the very early discussions about coronavirus in January , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last week that coronavirus tests would now be available to asymptomatic residents and staff in care homes , as well as symptomatic patients and staff in NHS hospitals .

Care homes have been "almost compelled" to take people who have not been tested for coronavirus, Sky News has been told.
Official statistics show deaths in care homes made up 40.4% of the overall number of COVID-19 fatalities across England and Wales in the week to 1 May.
Sky News has revealed several councils threatened to withhold funding to help care homes deal with the coronavirus outbreak if they did not agree to take in patients with the illness.
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And Nadra Ahmed, chair of the National Care Association, said the crisis had been exacerbated by the existing arrangement between care home providers and councils.
Speaking following a Sky News' special report on deaths in care homes, she said: "It's one of those things where you think common sense would prevail, that if somebody hasn't been tested as being negative, why would we put them into an environment where there are other vulnerable people at risk?
"Providers have told us that they were almost compelled to take people back into care homes because they had a contract with the [local] authority to do so.
"I think that these are very challenging decisions that have been taken by individuals that have compelled the sector to move in that way."
It comes after Sky News reported on the death of 64-year-old Iris Critchle, who continued to go into work as housekeeper at the care home where she worked in Macclesfield, Cheshire.
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Microbiologist Dr Simon Clarke told Sky News that authorities had effectively been "pouring fuel on to the flames" of the coronavirus outbreak.
"We were told that this is a disease that will really affect elderly and infirm people, and some people with underlying health conditions," he said.
"This is not a surprise that elderly and infirm people should be most at risk.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 22:43 Special report: The killer in our care homes
"I assume that people were shipped out of hospitals to make room for what they knew was coming.
"Sending them out from hospitals untested into the care homes and then not giving the care homes sufficient PPE really is just pouring fuel on to the flames."
Simon Walls, the clinical lead at St Cecilia's nursing home, said the virus likely made it into his facility from a patient discharged from hospital who was asymptomatic, then grew ill and went back into hospital, where she died.
"We weren't able to get tests to test the residents we thought may have had COVID-19," he said.
"Unfortunately those people passed away. We didn't know if they died from COVID-19 or natural causes. But my suspicions are the number is much higher than what we've documented because of the testing."
Asked by Sky News whether he wished to apologise to the families of those who had died in care homes because the government had not done enough to protect them, Health Secretary Matt Hancock previously insisted doing so had been a "top priority from the start".
"Making sure that care homes have the support they need has been absolutely front of mind, in fact I can remember in one of the very early discussions about coronavirus in January," he said.
Mr Hancock announced last week that coronavirus tests would now be available to asymptomatic residents and staff in care homes, as well as symptomatic patients and staff in NHS hospitals.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Prosecution threat for firms who fail to make premises 'COVID secure'

Companies are being threatened with prosecution if they do not make premises `` COVID secure '' for returning workers .
The warning comes as people in England are told to go back to work from Wednesday if they can not do their job from home - such as builders and manufacturers .
Ministers have stressed firms should ensure social distancing stays in place as the lockdown is slowly eased over the next few months to stop the spread of coronavirus , which has already killed 32,692 people in the UK .
Best practice plans have been drawn up by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protected - such as remaining two metres apart , being given face masks or provided with hand sanitiser .
But the Health and Safety Executive ( HSE ) - which will do spot inspections to make sure firms are keeping people safe - has confirmed any that do n't follow the new rules could face legal action .
Chief executive Sarah Albon explained how much power the agency will have to live up to Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s demand for any reopening workplace to be `` COVID-secure '' .
At Downing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Inspectors can require businesses to do certain things - enforcement notices , requiring them to take particular kinds of action .
`` In the most extreme circumstances if there is a risk of serious injury to an individual employee they can issue a notice which prohibits certain activities from taking place .
`` Breach of those kind of enforcement notices is essentially a criminal offence and we can prosecute people who fail to do the right thing . ''
Unions have endorsed the guidelines , TUC general secretary Frances O @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` step in the right direction '' .
She urged : `` All employers must now carry out and publish risk assessments in consultation with unions and their workforces .
`` After the confusion of the last few days , working people will only feel confident if government and employers act now to make safer working a reality in every workplace . ''
The HSE has been granted a 10 % budget increase to spend on equipment , hiring more call centre staff and carrying out more inspections .
Despite the lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , the same measures are remaining in place in Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland .

Companies are being threatened with prosecution if they do not make premises "COVID secure" for returning workers.
The warning comes as people in England are told to go back to work from Wednesday if they cannot do their job from home - such as builders and manufacturers.
Ministers have stressed firms should ensure social distancing stays in place as the lockdown is slowly eased over the next few months to stop the spread of coronavirus, which has already killed 32,692 people in the UK.
Image: More than 32,000 people have died with the virus in the UK
Best practice plans have been drawn up by the government for businesses to ensure workers are protected - such as remaining two metres apart, being given face masks or provided with hand sanitiser.
But the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) - which will do spot inspections to make sure firms are keeping people safe - has confirmed any that don't follow the new rules could face legal action.
Image: Firms that do not protect staff could be prosecuted
Chief executive Sarah Albon explained how much power the agency will have to live up to Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s demand for any reopening workplace to be "COVID-secure".
At Downing Street's daily coronavirus briefing, she said: "Inspectors can require businesses to do certain things - enforcement notices, requiring them to take particular kinds of action.
"In the most extreme circumstances if there is a risk of serious injury to an individual employee they can issue a notice which prohibits certain activities from taking place.
"Breach of those kind of enforcement notices is essentially a criminal offence and we can prosecute people who fail to do the right thing."
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Unions have endorsed the guidelines, TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady saying on Monday they are a "step in the right direction".
She urged: "All employers must now carry out and publish risk assessments in consultation with unions and their workforces.
"After the confusion of the last few days, working people will only feel confident if government and employers act now to make safer working a reality in every workplace."
The HSE has been granted a 10% budget increase to spend on equipment, hiring more call centre staff and carrying out more inspections.
Despite the lockdown changes in England coming into effect on Wednesday, the same measures are remaining in place in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--Government facing lawsuit over 'gig economy' workers

A union representing gig economy workers , including Uber drivers and medical couriers , is preparing to sue the government to ensure they are covered by health and safety laws .
According to the Independent Workers ' Union of Great Britain ( IWGB ) , health and safety equipment is being denied to hundreds of thousands of workers who should be legally entitled to it .
Gig economy workers , including security guards and taxi drivers , are among those most likely to die from COVID-19 , according to the Office for National Statistics .
But legal requirements to protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU and British law , because the employment status of these workers is contested .
In the EU , health and safety law covers all workers , but in the UK it only protects employees .
Many companies which use gig economy workers do not class these workers as employees .
Uber has been appealing against successive court cases to reclassify the employment status of its drivers since 2016 .
The IWGB has sent a letter to the government ahead of launching a judicial review to see if the UK has `` failed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety directives from EU law into UK law '' .
According to the union , if the government loses the review it would be forced to `` extend health and safety protections to all 'workers ' , including hundreds of thousands in the so-called 'gig economy ' '' .
Jason Moyer-Lee , IWGB 's general secretary , said : `` As the government looks to ease the lockdown in the midst of the pandemic , health and safety at work has never been more important .
`` It is crucial that exploitative employers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health and safety of their workers and that the government brings the criminal prosecutions necessary to enforce this law .
`` The UK is already compelled by EU law to extend health and safety protections to workers ; it 's a shame the government would rather litigate than comply , '' Mr Moyer-Lee added .
A spokesperson for Uber told Sky News : `` Uber has introduced measures to ensure that every driver can access the PPE they need for free to drive safely on the Uber app .
`` As well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Uber is providing over one million free PPE items , as well as directly reimbursing drivers if they choose to source the required PPE themselves . ''
If you would like to contact Alexander Martin , you can reach him securely using the private messaging app Signal on +44 ( 0 ) 7970 376 704 or at aj.martin @ sky.uk

A union representing gig economy workers, including Uber drivers and medical couriers, is preparing to sue the government to ensure they are covered by health and safety laws.
According to the Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB), health and safety equipment is being denied to hundreds of thousands of workers who should be legally entitled to it.
Gig economy workers, including security guards and taxi drivers, are among those most likely to die from COVID-19, according to the Office for National Statistics.
But legal requirements to protect workers are slipping through the cracks between EU and British law, because the employment status of these workers is contested.
In the EU, health and safety law covers all workers, but in the UK it only protects employees. Many companies which use gig economy workers do not class these workers as employees.
Uber has been appealing against successive court cases to reclassify the employment status of its drivers since 2016.
The IWGB has sent a letter to the government ahead of launching a judicial review to see if the UK has "failed in its obligation to transpose health and safety directives from EU law into UK law".
According to the union, if the government loses the review it would be forced to "extend health and safety protections to all 'workers', including hundreds of thousands in the so-called 'gig economy'".
Image: The IWGB previously challenged Uber over its drivers' employment status
Jason Moyer-Lee, IWGB's general secretary, said: "As the government looks to ease the lockdown in the midst of the pandemic, health and safety at work has never been more important.
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"It is crucial that exploitative employers like Uber know they must protect the health and safety of their workers and that the government brings the criminal prosecutions necessary to enforce this law.
"The UK is already compelled by EU law to extend health and safety protections to workers; it's a shame the government would rather litigate than comply," Mr Moyer-Lee added.
A spokesperson for Uber told Sky News: "Uber has introduced measures to ensure that every driver can access the PPE they need for free to drive safely on the Uber app.
"As well as providing drivers with free sanitising products, Uber is providing over one million free PPE items, as well as directly reimbursing drivers if they choose to source the required PPE themselves."
If you would like to contact Alexander Martin, you can reach him securely using the private messaging app Signal on +44 (0)7970 376 704 or at aj.martin@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-05-13--'Significant number of deaths' could occur during UK recession

A `` significant number of deaths '' could occur due to an economic recession resulting from the coronavirus pandemic , the UK 's chief statistician has warned .
New figures have shown the UK economy shrank by 2 % in the three months to the end of March , with Chancellor Rishi Sunak admitting it is `` very likely '' the country is now facing a `` significant recession '' .
Mr Sunak also said it would be `` premature '' to speculate on how quickly the economy could bounce back from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis .
Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , told MPs the total number of deaths - caused directly or indirectly - from the coronavirus pandemic would likely increase the longer the economy took to recover .
`` If we end up with an L-shaped recession , as opposed to a V-shape where we come back out quite quickly , an L-shape over a long period of time could lead to a significant number of deaths as a result of people being pushed into poverty or into long-term unemployment , '' Prof Diamond told the House of Commons ' Public Administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that people in the lowest deciles of income have higher mortality rates , sadly , in our country . ''
Prof Diamond , who leads the Office for National Statistics , confirmed the UK is `` through the peak '' of coronavirus infections , but he said the country should be `` worried as we come through this current peak we do not seed another one '' .
`` There are a very , very large number of people still in the community who have COVID-19 , '' he added , telling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK have coronavirus at the moment .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Prof Diamond suggested new outbreaks of coronavirus would be `` local '' rather than `` national '' with the government 's new joint biosecurity centre `` key '' to identifying them .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the new centre will monitor the UK 's coronavirus `` alert level '' in order to determine how tough social distancing restrictions need to be .
Prof Diamond told MPs he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK has the highest coronavirus death toll in Europe , although he said there was `` no doubt '' the country was at the higher level .
`` Because of the great difficulty in understanding exactly whether we 're comparing apples with apples or apples with pears , I 'm not prepared to say that the UK has the highest , '' he said .
Prof Diamond also expressed his personal belief that new laws should be introduced to require the electronic registration of deaths within 24 hours , in order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ registration data .

A "significant number of deaths" could occur due to an economic recession resulting from the coronavirus pandemic, the UK's chief statistician has warned.
New figures have shown the UK economy shrank by 2% in the three months to the end of March, with Chancellor Rishi Sunak admitting it is "very likely" the country is now facing a "significant recession".
Mr Sunak also said it would be "premature" to speculate on how quickly the economy could bounce back from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 'Very likely UK facing significant recession'
Professor Ian Diamond, the UK national statistician, told MPs the total number of deaths - caused directly or indirectly - from the coronavirus pandemic would likely increase the longer the economy took to recover.
"If we end up with an L-shaped recession, as opposed to a V-shape where we come back out quite quickly, an L-shape over a long period of time could lead to a significant number of deaths as a result of people being pushed into poverty or into long-term unemployment," Prof Diamond told the House of Commons' Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee.
"We know that people in the lowest deciles of income have higher mortality rates, sadly, in our country."
Prof Diamond, who leads the Office for National Statistics, confirmed the UK is "through the peak" of coronavirus infections, but he said the country should be "worried as we come through this current peak we do not seed another one".
"There are a very, very large number of people still in the community who have COVID-19," he added, telling MPs an estimated 136,000 people in the UK have coronavirus at the moment.
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Prof Diamond suggested new outbreaks of coronavirus would be "local" rather than "national" with the government's new joint biosecurity centre "key" to identifying them.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the new centre will monitor the UK's coronavirus "alert level" in order to determine how tough social distancing restrictions need to be.
Prof Diamond told MPs he was "not prepared" to say the UK has the highest coronavirus death toll in Europe, although he said there was "no doubt" the country was at the higher level.
"Because of the great difficulty in understanding exactly whether we're comparing apples with apples or apples with pears, I'm not prepared to say that the UK has the highest," he said.
Prof Diamond also expressed his personal belief that new laws should be introduced to require the electronic registration of deaths within 24 hours, in order to prevent the current time lags in deaths registration data.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-12--'Back to work day' in England with the first steps to reviving the economy

Boris Johnson will be hoping hundreds of thousands of workers heed the government 's call to return to work on day one of moves to ease the coronavirus lockdown .
On what is being called `` back-to-work day '' , he is urging employees who can not work from home - in industries such as manufacturing and construction - to return , but avoid public transport if possible .
And as the Prime Minister holds his breath and puts his faith in `` good , solid British common sense '' , the government has announced further economic measures , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the housing market , which has been brought to a halt since March and left 450,000 buyers and renters stuck • The self-employed can now start applying , ahead of schedule , for grants of up to £7,500 , under the Treasury 's Self-Employment Income Support Scheme It is also day one - in England , but not Scotland or Wales - of new freedoms allowing several outdoor activities for the first time in nearly two months , including : • Unlimited outdoor exercise • Meeting a relative or friend outdoors • Sunbathing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • A day trip in the car • A visit to a garden centre • Sport such as golf or tennis with members of the same household But as rules are relaxed , fines for flouting them are going up , from £60 to £100 - £50 if paid within 14 days - and doubling to £200 for second and subsequent offences , to a maximum of £3,200 .
The government is also urging people to wear face coverings or masks in shops and on public transport where social distancing - staying two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Moves to revive the property market have been announced by the Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick , who said they would enable people to move home safely in line with social distancing advice .
Estate agents ' offices can now open , viewings are permitted , show homes can open , removal companies and other essential parts of the sales and letting process are re-started with immediate effect .
`` Our clear plan will enable people to move home safely , covering each aspect of the sales and letting process from viewings to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Our step by step plan is based on the latest guidance to ensure the safety and protection of everyone involved .
This critical industry can now safely move forward , and those waiting patiently to move can now do so . ''
To help the self-employed , individuals or members of partnerships whose business has been hit by coronavirus are now able to apply for a grant worth 80 % of their average monthly trading profits .
The Treasury claims millions are expected to benefit from the scheme with the payments of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bank accounts by 25 May or within six working days of each claim .
`` We 're working ahead of time to deliver support to the self-employed and from today , applications open for the millions of people eligible for the scheme , '' said Chancellor Rishi Sunak .
`` With payments arriving before the end of this month , self-employed across the UK will have money in their pockets to help them through these challenging times . ''
In a bid to persuade employees to return to work , the government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ persuade workers that workplaces and public transport are `` COVID-secure '' .
But trade unions and Labour MPs have accused the PM of trying to bounce people back to work without allowing time to make factories and offices and trains , buses and London 's Tube safe .
And Mr Johnson will face tough questions from MPs in the Commons for the second time this week when he is confronted by the Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister 's Questions .
Responding to criticism on safety and accusations of muddled messages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Alok Sharma encouraged employees who feel unsafe at work to complain .
`` Employers have a duty to keep employees safe in the work place , ' '' he said at the latest Downing Street coronavirus news conference .
`` That is absolutely enshrined in law .
`` If somebody feels their work place is not safe they have to take that up with their employer .
`` If they do n't feel they are getting any traction they absolutely should get in touch with the Health and Safety Executive or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker At the same news conference , the HSE 's chief executive Sarah Albon said : `` Inspectors can require businesses to do certain things - enforcement notices , requiring them to take particular kinds of action .
`` In the most extreme circumstances if there is a risk of serious injury to an individual employee they can issue a notice which prohibits certain activities from taking place .
`` Breach of those kind of enforcement notices is essentially a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who fail to do the right thing . ''
She added : `` It 's important that employees do try to solve things with their employer if they can .
But we absolutely recognise that there will be some employers who do n't do the right thing .
`` We absolutely are there if people want to contact us and make a complaint . ''
Announcing new safety guidance for trains and the Tube , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said : `` The two-meter social distancing rule will only leave effective capacity for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And he added : `` Be prepared to queue or take a different entrance or exit at stations . ''

Boris Johnson will be hoping hundreds of thousands of workers heed the government's call to return to work on day one of moves to ease the coronavirus lockdown.
On what is being called "back-to-work day", he is urging employees who cannot work from home - in industries such as manufacturing and construction - to return, but avoid public transport if possible.
And as the Prime Minister holds his breath and puts his faith in "good, solid British common sense", the government has announced further economic measures, including:
• A new plan to kick-start the housing market, which has been brought to a halt since March and left 450,000 buyers and renters stuck
• The self-employed can now start applying, ahead of schedule, for grants of up to £7,500, under the Treasury's Self-Employment Income Support Scheme
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:04 'Going back to work puts my family at risk'
It is also day one - in England, but not Scotland or Wales - of new freedoms allowing several outdoor activities for the first time in nearly two months, including:
• Unlimited outdoor exercise
• Meeting a relative or friend outdoors
• Sunbathing in the park or on a beach
• A day trip in the car
• A visit to a garden centre
• Sport such as golf or tennis with members of the same household
But as rules are relaxed, fines for flouting them are going up, from £60 to £100 - £50 if paid within 14 days - and doubling to £200 for second and subsequent offences, to a maximum of £3,200.
The government is also urging people to wear face coverings or masks in shops and on public transport where social distancing - staying two metres apart - is not always possible.
Moves to revive the property market have been announced by the Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick, who said they would enable people to move home safely in line with social distancing advice.
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Estate agents' offices can now open, viewings are permitted, show homes can open, removal companies and other essential parts of the sales and letting process are re-started with immediate effect.
"Our clear plan will enable people to move home safely, covering each aspect of the sales and letting process from viewings to removals," said Mr Jenrick.
"Our step by step plan is based on the latest guidance to ensure the safety and protection of everyone involved. This critical industry can now safely move forward, and those waiting patiently to move can now do so."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:13 Chancellor announces extension to furlough scheme
To help the self-employed, individuals or members of partnerships whose business has been hit by coronavirus are now able to apply for a grant worth 80% of their average monthly trading profits.
The Treasury claims millions are expected to benefit from the scheme with the payments of up to £7,500 expected to land in bank accounts by 25 May or within six working days of each claim.
"We're working ahead of time to deliver support to the self-employed and from today, applications open for the millions of people eligible for the scheme," said Chancellor Rishi Sunak.
"With payments arriving before the end of this month, self-employed across the UK will have money in their pockets to help them through these challenging times."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:19 'There will be spot checks' on workplace safety
In a bid to persuade employees to return to work, the government has launched a charm offensive, attempting to persuade workers that workplaces and public transport are "COVID-secure".
But trade unions and Labour MPs have accused the PM of trying to bounce people back to work without allowing time to make factories and offices and trains, buses and London's Tube safe.
And Mr Johnson will face tough questions from MPs in the Commons for the second time this week when he is confronted by the Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister's Questions.
Responding to criticism on safety and accusations of muddled messages on returning to work, the Business Secretary Alok Sharma encouraged employees who feel unsafe at work to complain.
"Employers have a duty to keep employees safe in the work place,'" he said at the latest Downing Street coronavirus news conference. "That is absolutely enshrined in law.
"If somebody feels their work place is not safe they have to take that up with their employer.
"If they don't feel they are getting any traction they absolutely should get in touch with the Health and Safety Executive or the local authority."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
At the same news conference, the HSE's chief executive Sarah Albon said: "Inspectors can require businesses to do certain things - enforcement notices, requiring them to take particular kinds of action.
"In the most extreme circumstances if there is a risk of serious injury to an individual employee they can issue a notice which prohibits certain activities from taking place.
"Breach of those kind of enforcement notices is essentially a criminal offence and we can prosecute people who fail to do the right thing."
She added: "It's important that employees do try to solve things with their employer if they can. But we absolutely recognise that there will be some employers who don't do the right thing.
"We absolutely are there if people want to contact us and make a complaint."
Announcing new safety guidance for trains and the Tube, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "The two-meter social distancing rule will only leave effective capacity for 1 in 10 passengers overall." And he added: "Be prepared to queue or take a different entrance or exit at stations."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-13--PM accused of misleading Commons on care homes advice - and urged to return to correct himself

Boris Johnson has been accused of misleading parliament about government advice that people in care homes were `` very unlikely '' to contract coronavirus .
Sir Keir Starmer wrote to the prime minister urging him to `` recognise '' that this had been official guidance until 12 March - something Mr Johnson initially denied in the commons .
The prime minister later accused the Labour leader of `` selectively and misleadingly '' quoting from the document by not explaining the `` critical context '' that it was first released on 25 February when there was `` no transmission of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Sky News included the guidance in a documentary about how the pandemic unfolded in care homes and was told how some providers were `` almost compelled '' to take people who have not been tested for coronavirus .
The row began at Prime Minister 's Questions on Wednesday , when Sir Keir highlighted official figures showing deaths in care homes made up more than 40 % of the overall number of recent coronavirus deaths .
The Labour leader told MPs : `` Earlier this year , and until 12 March , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I 'm quoting from it , 'it remains very unlikely that people receiving care in a care home will become infected ' . ''
Sir Keir urged Mr Johnson , who today announced a further £600m for infection control in care homes , to `` accept that the government was too slow to protect people in care homes '' .
The prime minister replied that it `` was n't true that the advice said that '' and added : `` We brought the lockdown in care homes ahead of the general lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ link to a government webpage , which relates to `` guidance for social or community care and residential settings on COVID-19 '' .
The guidance was published on 25 February and was `` withdrawn on 13 March '' , the webpage states .
Under a section on face masks , the guidance states : `` It remains very unlikely that people receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected . ''
Sir Keir wrote to the prime minister following their PMQs exchange .
`` At this time of national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever that government ministers are accurate in the information they give , '' the Labour leader wrote .
`` Given this , I expect you to come to the House of Commons at the earliest opportunity to correct the record and to recognise that this was official government guidance regarding care homes . ''
In his letter , Sir Keir also noted how another paragraph in the guidance stated : `` It is therefore very unlikely that anyone receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected . ''
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Responding to the Labour leader in his own letter , Mr Johnson said : `` I am disappointed that in the house today you chose to quote Public Health England advice selectively and misleadingly , and I stand by my comments .
`` You neglected to provide the critical context at the start of the guidance . ''
He quoted from another section which said : `` This guidance is intended for the current position in the UK where there is currently no transmission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is therefore very unlikely that anyone receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected .
This is the latest information and will be updated shortly . ''
Mr Johnson added : `` I would remind you of the commitment you made , when you became leader of the opposition , to work constructively with the government in the face of this unprecedented pandemic .
The public expect us to work together . ''
Dr Jenny Harries , England 's chief medical officer , was later challenged at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice remained in place for so long .
`` At that time we did not recognise there was any sustained community transmission , '' she said .

Boris Johnson has been accused of misleading parliament about government advice that people in care homes were "very unlikely" to contract coronavirus.
Sir Keir Starmer wrote to the prime minister urging him to "recognise" that this had been official guidance until 12 March - something Mr Johnson initially denied in the commons.
The prime minister later accused the Labour leader of "selectively and misleadingly" quoting from the document by not explaining the "critical context" that it was first released on 25 February when there was "no transmission of COVID-19 in the community".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 22:43 Special report: The killer in our care homes
It comes after Sky News included the guidance in a documentary about how the pandemic unfolded in care homes and was told how some providers were "almost compelled" to take people who have not been tested for coronavirus.
The row began at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, when Sir Keir highlighted official figures showing deaths in care homes made up more than 40% of the overall number of recent coronavirus deaths.
The Labour leader told MPs: "Earlier this year, and until 12 March, the government's own official advice was, and I'm quoting from it, 'it remains very unlikely that people receiving care in a care home will become infected'."
Sir Keir urged Mr Johnson, who today announced a further £600m for infection control in care homes, to "accept that the government was too slow to protect people in care homes".
Image: Sir Keir Starmer was accused of not providing 'critical context'
The prime minister replied that it "wasn't true that the advice said that" and added: "We brought the lockdown in care homes ahead of the general lockdown."
Labour sources later circulated a link to a government webpage, which relates to "guidance for social or community care and residential settings on COVID-19".
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The guidance was published on 25 February and was "withdrawn on 13 March", the webpage states.
Under a section on face masks, the guidance states: "It remains very unlikely that people receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected."
Sir Keir wrote to the prime minister following their PMQs exchange.
"At this time of national crisis, it is more important than ever that government ministers are accurate in the information they give," the Labour leader wrote.
"Given this, I expect you to come to the House of Commons at the earliest opportunity to correct the record and to recognise that this was official government guidance regarding care homes."
In his letter, Sir Keir also noted how another paragraph in the guidance stated: "It is therefore very unlikely that anyone receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected."
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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Responding to the Labour leader in his own letter, Mr Johnson said: "I am disappointed that in the house today you chose to quote Public Health England advice selectively and misleadingly, and I stand by my comments.
"You neglected to provide the critical context at the start of the guidance."
He quoted from another section which said: "This guidance is intended for the current position in the UK where there is currently no transmission of COVID-19 in the community.
"It is therefore very unlikely that anyone receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected. This is the latest information and will be updated shortly."
Image: Deaths in care homes made up more than 40% of overall recent virus-related deaths
Mr Johnson added: "I would remind you of the commitment you made, when you became leader of the opposition, to work constructively with the government in the face of this unprecedented pandemic. The public expect us to work together."
Dr Jenny Harries, England's chief medical officer, was later challenged at the daily Downing Street briefing on why the advice remained in place for so long.
"At that time we did not recognise there was any sustained community transmission," she said.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-13--Sunak slips up - how chancellor voted against his own government

Rishi Sunak has raised eyebrows after accidentally voting against his own government .
The chancellor sparked surprise when his name appeared in support of a rebel amendment to the Agriculture Bill .
It was defeated - but if passed could have tied ministers ' hands in negotiations on trade deals .
Ministers are expected to support the government in votes as part of `` cabinet responsibility '' and if they can not should resign .
A source close to Mr Sunak said it was `` not an intentional vote against the government '' .
They told Sky News the error @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the online system '' set up to let MPs vote remotely during the coronavirus crisis .
The insider added he informed the chief whip - the MP in charge of keeping colleagues in line - as soon as the mistake happened .
It may further raise concerns among some politicians about the new measures brought in to let them do their job from home as part of the coronavirus lockdown .
Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg signalled the special powers would be abolished in June to set an example to the rest of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accused those who want the current system to remain of trying to `` hide behind a veneer of virtual parliament so that legislation is not progressed with '' .

Rishi Sunak has raised eyebrows after accidentally voting against his own government.
The chancellor sparked surprise when his name appeared in support of a rebel amendment to the Agriculture Bill.
It was defeated - but if passed could have tied ministers' hands in negotiations on trade deals.
Image: MPs have been voting remotely during the coronavirus lockdown
Ministers are expected to support the government in votes as part of "cabinet responsibility" and if they cannot should resign.
A source close to Mr Sunak said it was "not an intentional vote against the government".
They told Sky News the error was due to "teething issues with the online system" set up to let MPs vote remotely during the coronavirus crisis.
The insider added he informed the chief whip - the MP in charge of keeping colleagues in line - as soon as the mistake happened.
It may further raise concerns among some politicians about the new measures brought in to let them do their job from home as part of the coronavirus lockdown.
Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg signalled the special powers would be abolished in June to set an example to the rest of the country about returning to work.
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He accused those who want the current system to remain of trying to "hide behind a veneer of virtual parliament so that legislation is not progressed with".