skynewspolitics--2020-04-27--Small firms offered loans of up to £50,000 that are 100% backed by govt

The chancellor has announced a new coronavirus crisis aid scheme , offering small businesses up to £50,000 in loans that will be 100 % guaranteed by the government .
Rishi Sunak told MPs the `` bounce back '' loans were a consequence of many firms struggling to access credit during the COVID-19 lockdown to date .
He said the microloan scheme would be in place from next Monday , with applications to banks via a simple form .
Crucially , applicants will not face a viability test - but some fraud checks will have to be completed .
`` Businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new bounce back loans for 25 % of their turnover up to a maximum of £50,000 with the government paying the interest for the first 12 months , '' the chancellor said .
Mr Sunak said the sums involved meant the government could meet the risks associated with the scheme as he rejected calls , made by business groups , for the taxpayer to guarantee 100 % of other emergency schemes .
There have been widespread reports of banks being slow and reluctant to lend to small and medium-sized businesses under the Coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because they are liable for 20 % of the risk .
The chancellor defended the government against claims that the schemes fail to match the packages by other nations such as Switzerland in terms of cash and speed .
He insisted the UK 's measures should be looked at in their totality , to include things such as business rates holidays and VAT deferrals .
He argued the whole fiscal package was among the best available in the world .
`` Around half a million employers have already applied for help to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jobs , '' he said .
Mr Sunak also told MPs more than 1.5 million new claims had been made for Universal Credit .
He added : `` I 've heard some calls for the government to underwrite all our loan schemes with 100 % guarantees .
I remain unconvinced by the case for doing that universally .
`` We should not ask the ordinary taxpayers of today and tomorrow to bear the entire risk of lending almost unlimited sums to businesses who may , in some cases , have very little prospect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessarily because of the impact of the coronavirus , '' the chancellor said .
The CBI , which had been among organisations demanding 100 % loan guarantees , said the new microloan scheme was `` transformational '' .
Its director general , Dame Carolyn Fairbairn , said : `` Sole traders , micro-firms and entrepreneurs will now have a simple route to fast finance to stay afloat , without red tape or time-consuming checks .
`` Thousands of businesses could be saved by this lifeline .
Banks now need to continue their work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faster . ''

The chancellor has announced a new coronavirus crisis aid scheme, offering small businesses up to £50,000 in loans that will be 100% guaranteed by the government.
Rishi Sunak told MPs the "bounce back" loans were a consequence of many firms struggling to access credit during the COVID-19 lockdown to date.
He said the microloan scheme would be in place from next Monday, with applications to banks via a simple form.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:00 'If you keep going, we will beat this'
Crucially, applicants will not face a viability test - but some fraud checks will have to be completed.
"Businesses will be able to apply for these new bounce back loans for 25% of their turnover up to a maximum of £50,000 with the government paying the interest for the first 12 months," the chancellor said.
Mr Sunak said the sums involved meant the government could meet the risks associated with the scheme as he rejected calls, made by business groups, for the taxpayer to guarantee 100% of other emergency schemes.
There have been widespread reports of banks being slow and reluctant to lend to small and medium-sized businesses under the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) because they are liable for 20% of the risk.
The chancellor defended the government against claims that the schemes fail to match the packages by other nations such as Switzerland in terms of cash and speed.
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He insisted the UK's measures should be looked at in their totality, to include things such as business rates holidays and VAT deferrals. He argued the whole fiscal package was among the best available in the world.
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"Around half a million employers have already applied for help to pay the wages of over four million furloughed jobs," he said.
Image: Rishi Sunak announced the latest business support scheme in a statement to the Commons
Mr Sunak also told MPs more than 1.5 million new claims had been made for Universal Credit.
He added: "I've heard some calls for the government to underwrite all our loan schemes with 100% guarantees. I remain unconvinced by the case for doing that universally.
"We should not ask the ordinary taxpayers of today and tomorrow to bear the entire risk of lending almost unlimited sums to businesses who may, in some cases, have very little prospect of paying those loans back and not necessarily because of the impact of the coronavirus," the chancellor said.
The CBI, which had been among organisations demanding 100% loan guarantees, said the new microloan scheme was "transformational".
Its director general, Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, said: "Sole traders, micro-firms and entrepreneurs will now have a simple route to fast finance to stay afloat, without red tape or time-consuming checks.
"Thousands of businesses could be saved by this lifeline. Banks now need to continue their work in overdrive to get the loans flowing faster."


skynewspolitics--2020-04-27--Call for Trevor Phillips to be removed from review into BAME deaths

Public Health England is being urged to stop Trevor Phillips from participating in a review into the disproportionate number of BAME people who have died after contracting COVID-19 , according to a letter seen by Sky News .
The joint letter was sent by 16 BAME medical organisations that represent tens of thousands of medics in the UK .
It comes after Mr Phillips was appointed to the Public Health England review into coronavirus deaths .
The former chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission is currently suspended from the Labour Party and under investigation .
Mr Phillips has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and he has also criticised Labour 's handling of antisemitism within the party .
One doctor has told Sky News the decision to appoint Mr Phillips was `` totally outrageous '' .
The letter , which has also been sent to health secretary Matt Hancock , has been described as an `` unprecedented '' move by the chair of one of the groups .
It says : `` The participation of BAME communities will be integral to the review .
`` We urge Public Health England to ensure a thorough and credible review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of reference without delay and to withdraw the participation of Mr Phillips .
`` A suitable candidate who would be trusted by healthcare professionals from a BAME background must be sought . ''
Representatives from the British Islamic Medical Association , British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin , British Somali Medical Association and Syrian British Medical Association are among the 16 signatories of the letter .
Professor Kevin Fenton , PHE 's regional director in London , said : `` Trevor Phillips and Professor Richard Webber have been asked to support this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the right skills and experience .
We need to move fast to understand why and what can be done about this . ''
Sky News has been told that Trevor Phillips will not be making a comment .

Public Health England is being urged to stop Trevor Phillips from participating in a review into the disproportionate number of BAME people who have died after contracting COVID-19, according to a letter seen by Sky News.
The joint letter was sent by 16 BAME medical organisations that represent tens of thousands of medics in the UK.
It comes after Mr Phillips was appointed to the Public Health England review into coronavirus deaths.
The former chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission is currently suspended from the Labour Party and under investigation.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:45 Are ethnic minorities worst-hit by COVID-19?
Mr Phillips has been accused of making Islamophobic comments, and he has also criticised Labour's handling of antisemitism within the party.
One doctor has told Sky News the decision to appoint Mr Phillips was "totally outrageous".
The letter, which has also been sent to health secretary Matt Hancock, has been described as an "unprecedented" move by the chair of one of the groups.
It says: "The participation of BAME communities will be integral to the review.
"We urge Public Health England to ensure a thorough and credible review is conducted, to publish the terms of reference without delay and to withdraw the participation of Mr Phillips.
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"A suitable candidate who would be trusted by healthcare professionals from a BAME background must be sought."
Representatives from the British Islamic Medical Association, British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, British Somali Medical Association and Syrian British Medical Association are among the 16 signatories of the letter.
Professor Kevin Fenton, PHE's regional director in London, said: "Trevor Phillips and Professor Richard Webber have been asked to support this critical work as their specialist consultancy has the right skills and experience. We need to move fast to understand why and what can be done about this."
Sky News has been told that Trevor Phillips will not be making a comment.


skynewspolitics--2020-04-28--Over-65s and non-home workers now able to get coronavirus tests

Over-65s and those who need to leave their homes for work will now be able to get tested for coronavirus , as the government expands the number of people who are eligible .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the move as he strives to meet the government 's target of reaching 100,000 COVID-19 tests per day by Friday .
From Wednesday , all those aged over 65 and those who have to leave their homes in order to do their jobs , who have coronavirus symptoms , will be able to get a COVID-19 test .
Those in the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also now be eligible for tests , if they show symptoms .
`` From construction workers to emergency plumbers , from research scientists to those in manufacturing , the expansion of access to testing will protect the most vulnerable and help keep people safe , '' Mr Hancock said at Downing Street 's daily coronavirus briefing .
Mr Hancock also announced the expansion of coronavirus testing to all those working on the frontline in the NHS and social care , as well as NHS hospital patients and care home residents , whether or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aside from some pilot schemes , only those with COVID-19 symptoms in these groups were being tested .
The health secretary said he was `` determined to do everything I can to protect the most vulnerable '' .
A government source said an additional 15 million Britons could now be eligible for coronavirus tests under the expanded programme , bringing the total who might now be eligible to 25 million .
Professor John Newton , the coordinator of the national testing programme , described how `` intensive studies '' of infection in care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was not really a good marker ... both among residents and staff , for the presence of the virus '' .
`` There were significant numbers who were asymptomatic who had the virus and so we have massively increased the amount of testing available , '' he said .
Prof Newton added 25,000 residents in care homes had so far been tested .
The health secretary said the government was `` on track '' to meet its target of 100,000 tests per day by the end of this month , despite less than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being conducted on Monday .
Mr Hancock said there was now capacity for 73,400 COVID-19 tests per day .
Outlining how the government hopes to fulfil this capacity , the health secretary said a further 48 drive-in testing centres would be in place this week , adding to the 41 centres currently in place .
The number of home testing kits - which can be booked via the gov.uk website - will also be expanded from 5,000 per day to 25,000 per day by the end of the week .
And there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mobile testing centres by the end of the week , up from the 17 currently travelling around the country .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hancock also announced , in an effort to `` bring as much transparency as possible '' to the UK death figures , that from Wednesday the government will be publishing not only the number of deaths in hospitals each day , but the number of deaths in care homes and in the community too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with coronavirus , an increase of 586 since Monday 's figures .
Earlier , the Care Quality Commission revealed there were 4,343 coronavirus-related deaths reported by care home providers in England in the fortnight to 24 April .
Labour 's shadow minister for social care , Liz Kendall , welcomed the government 's action on testing and intent to publish more comprehensive death figures .
She said : `` What 's measured is what counts , and for families and care workers struggling to cope with this awful virus , every death counts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` More needs to be done to ensure all care staff get the personal protective equipment they need and to ensure social care is properly funded to deal with the extra costs of the pandemic .
`` The government must also introduce a strategy for intermediate care , to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by people who are discharged from hospital and help struggling care homes . ''

Over-65s and those who need to leave their homes for work will now be able to get tested for coronavirus, as the government expands the number of people who are eligible.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the move as he strives to meet the government's target of reaching 100,000 COVID-19 tests per day by Friday.
From Wednesday, all those aged over 65 and those who have to leave their homes in order to do their jobs, who have coronavirus symptoms, will be able to get a COVID-19 test.
Those in the same households of over-65s and non-home workers will also now be eligible for tests, if they show symptoms.
Image: Construction workers will now be among those eligible for coronavirus tests
"From construction workers to emergency plumbers, from research scientists to those in manufacturing, the expansion of access to testing will protect the most vulnerable and help keep people safe," Mr Hancock said at Downing Street's daily coronavirus briefing.
Mr Hancock also announced the expansion of coronavirus testing to all those working on the frontline in the NHS and social care, as well as NHS hospital patients and care home residents, whether or not they have symptoms.
Previously, aside from some pilot schemes, only those with COVID-19 symptoms in these groups were being tested.
The health secretary said he was "determined to do everything I can to protect the most vulnerable".
A government source said an additional 15 million Britons could now be eligible for coronavirus tests under the expanded programme, bringing the total who might now be eligible to 25 million.
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Professor John Newton, the coordinator of the national testing programme, described how "intensive studies" of infection in care homes showed "the presence of symptoms was not really a good marker... both among residents and staff, for the presence of the virus".
"There were significant numbers who were asymptomatic who had the virus and so we have massively increased the amount of testing available," he said.
Prof Newton added 25,000 residents in care homes had so far been tested.
The health secretary said the government was "on track" to meet its target of 100,000 tests per day by the end of this month, despite less than half that figure - 43,453 tests - being conducted on Monday.
Mr Hancock said there was now capacity for 73,400 COVID-19 tests per day.
Outlining how the government hopes to fulfil this capacity, the health secretary said a further 48 drive-in testing centres would be in place this week, adding to the 41 centres currently in place.
The number of home testing kits - which can be booked via the gov.uk website - will also be expanded from 5,000 per day to 25,000 per day by the end of the week.
And there are plans for the army to run 70 mobile testing centres by the end of the week, up from the 17 currently travelling around the country.
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Mr Hancock also announced, in an effort to "bring as much transparency as possible" to the UK death figures, that from Wednesday the government will be publishing not only the number of deaths in hospitals each day, but the number of deaths in care homes and in the community too.
He said 21,678 have died in hospital with coronavirus, an increase of 586 since Monday's figures.
Earlier, the Care Quality Commission revealed there were 4,343 coronavirus-related deaths reported by care home providers in England in the fortnight to 24 April.
Labour's shadow minister for social care, Liz Kendall, welcomed the government's action on testing and intent to publish more comprehensive death figures.
She said: "What's measured is what counts, and for families and care workers struggling to cope with this awful virus, every death counts."
But Ms Kendall added: "More needs to be done to ensure all care staff get the personal protective equipment they need and to ensure social care is properly funded to deal with the extra costs of the pandemic.
"The government must also introduce a strategy for intermediate care, to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by people who are discharged from hospital and help struggling care homes."


skynewspolitics--2020-04-28--No 10 dampens reports PM will unveil lockdown changes this week

Downing Street has played down reports Boris Johnson could set out a limited set of changes to the UK 's coronavirus lockdown within days .
Number 10 stressed the government 's five tests for easing lockdown measures had not yet been passed .
`` We 've set out that we will review social distancing measures by 7 May , '' the prime minister 's official spokesman said on Tuesday .
`` The government is focused upon that date . ''
For lockdown measures to be relieved , the government has said : • It needs to see the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must be able to cope ; • The rate of infection must come down ; • There needs to be enough supplies of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) and COVID-19 tests ; • It must be confident lifting lockdown measures wo n't result in a second peak .
`` We 're not at that point yet , '' Mr Johnson 's spokesman said .
`` I do n't think we 're suggesting for a moment that the five tests currently are met - we will have to wait until they are .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ may set out towards the end of this week how the fight against COVID-19 infections is going , how it is being measured and what will be needed to prevent a second peak of infections .
It had earlier been reported that the prime minister would `` put flesh on the bones '' of a lockdown exit strategy by the end of this week .
The Times said this could include allowing shops selling `` non-essential '' items to reopen if they could keep customers two metres apart , and allowing Britons to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and families in limited `` bubbles '' of people who can see each other .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker On his first official day back at work on Monday , Mr Johnson said the government would be saying `` much more '' about how the lockdown measures might be refined `` in the coming days '' .
The prime minister has come under increasing pressure to ease the lockdown from both Conservative donors and Tory backbench MPs .
Sir Graham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Tory backbenchers , said on Monday : `` People have to have some hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel . ''
At Monday 's daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing , Professor Chris Whitty , England 's chief medical officer , confirmed there was `` some room for manoeuvre '' to ease lockdown measures due to the falling rate of infection .
He said : `` Obviously if it was lower , it would give us more room for manoeuvre , but it gives some room for manoeuvre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge amount of room for manoeuvre . ''

Downing Street has played down reports Boris Johnson could set out a limited set of changes to the UK's coronavirus lockdown within days.
Number 10 stressed the government's five tests for easing lockdown measures had not yet been passed.
"We've set out that we will review social distancing measures by 7 May," the prime minister's official spokesman said on Tuesday.
"The government is focused upon that date."
For lockdown measures to be relieved, the government has said:
It needs to see the number of coronavirus deaths falling;
The NHS must be able to cope;
The rate of infection must come down;
There needs to be enough supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) and COVID-19 tests;
tests; It must be confident lifting lockdown measures won't result in a second peak.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:00 'I ask you to contain your impatience'
"We're not at that point yet," Mr Johnson's spokesman said.
"I don't think we're suggesting for a moment that the five tests currently are met - we will have to wait until they are."
However, it is understood ministers may set out towards the end of this week how the fight against COVID-19 infections is going, how it is being measured and what will be needed to prevent a second peak of infections.
It had earlier been reported that the prime minister would "put flesh on the bones" of a lockdown exit strategy by the end of this week.
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The Times said this could include allowing shops selling "non-essential" items to reopen if they could keep customers two metres apart, and allowing Britons to mix with a wider group of friends and families in limited "bubbles" of people who can see each other.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
On his first official day back at work on Monday, Mr Johnson said the government would be saying "much more" about how the lockdown measures might be refined "in the coming days".
The prime minister has come under increasing pressure to ease the lockdown from both Conservative donors and Tory backbench MPs.
Sir Graham Brady, chair of the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers, said on Monday: "People have to have some hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:59 How lockdown fatigue is setting in
At Monday's daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing, Professor Chris Whitty, England's chief medical officer, confirmed there was "some room for manoeuvre" to ease lockdown measures due to the falling rate of infection.
He said: "Obviously if it was lower, it would give us more room for manoeuvre, but it gives some room for manoeuvre, but it doesn't give a huge amount of room for manoeuvre."


skynewspolitics--2020-04-28--'The nation will not forget you': PM leads minute's silence for key workers

Boris Johnson has led the nation in a minute 's silence to pay tribute to the key workers who have died in the fight against the coronavirus .
The prime minister , who has returned to work after his own battle with COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus , paused at 11am to mark the moment in Downing Street .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Matt Hancock also observed the silence .
Mr Johnson wrote on Twitter : `` This morning I took part in a minute 's silence to remember those workers who have tragically died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not forget you . ''
There has been criticism of the government over the provision of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) for frontline workers .
Martin Mayer , secretary of the Sheffield Trade Union Council , told those who gathered in the city to mark the event that many workers `` did n't get the protection they should have had '' .
`` We stand here sombrely and with great sadness , but with anger in our hearts too , '' he said .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer described the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` Coronavirus has shown us who our key workers really are , '' he said .
`` When this pandemic is over we ca n't return to business as usual .
`` They need proper pay , good working conditions , and a vision of a better society . ''
In a video message earlier , Sir Keir said `` too many '' frontline workers had died `` and we owe them a huge debt '' .
In a video message , the Labour leader said : `` Nobody should put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't got the right protective equipment .
`` We owe it to them to make sure that we 've got the right equipment , in the right place at the right time , and we will continue to press on that . ''
Mr Hancock was urged to issue a public apology over PPE shortages by the son of a doctor who died after warning the government about a lack of PPE .
Intisar Chowdhury , the son of Dr Abdul Mabud Chowdhury , who died after being diagnosed with COVID-19 , challenged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The minute 's silence was held following a campaign from Unison , the Royal College of Midwives and the Royal College of Nursing to recognise the sacrifices of doctors , nurses , carers , cleaners , porters and bus drivers .
More than 100 NHS and social care workers have died with COVID-19 , while workers in other key sectors such as transport are also among those who have died .
Healthcare staff , some in tears , bowed their heads as they remembered their colleagues , followed in some instances by applause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers were remembered .
Dame Donna Kinnair , chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing , said : `` I am heartened to hear how many people took part in the minute 's silence to honour the memory of staff who have tragically died during the pandemic .
`` We thought it was important to pay tribute publicly to those who have lost their lives to the virus , and I am proud that so many took the time to do so this morning . ''
: : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker She added : `` An even greater task now remains - to stop more joining the tragic number of those who have died .
`` All key workers , healthcare staff among them , must be afforded the greatest protection . ''
The silence was marked across the UK in a number of ways : • Flags were flown at half-mast at several hospitals , including Chorley and Royal Preston Hospitals and Birmingham Women 's and Children 's Trust 's hospitals • Westminster Abbey fell silent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and care workers who have lost their lives in the service of others '' • At Sheffield Town Hall , trade unionists and other supporters gathered outside carrying placards - some listing the names of those who have died • Three Unison representatives laid wreaths at Newcastle 's main War Memorial in Old Eldon Square • The London Underground and the city 's buses were brought to a halt as the workforce honoured colleagues , while elsewhere some traffic stopped for the silence • There were tears as NHS staff and Unison campaigners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester for the minute 's silence , followed by applause .
• Staff at Northern Ireland 's Ulster Hospital formed a guard of honour in the emergency department `` to show solidarity with our colleagues '' • Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon marked the moment outside St Andrew 's House in Edinburgh • In Wales , First Minister Mark Drakeford and Health Minister Vaughan Gething observed the silence with other ministers at the Welsh government headquarters in Cardiff .

Boris Johnson has led the nation in a minute's silence to pay tribute to the key workers who have died in the fight against the coronavirus.
The prime minister, who has returned to work after his own battle with COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, paused at 11am to mark the moment in Downing Street.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Matt Hancock also observed the silence.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:00 'I ask you to contain your impatience'
Mr Johnson wrote on Twitter: "This morning I took part in a minute's silence to remember those workers who have tragically died in the coronavirus pandemic. The nation will not forget you."
There has been criticism of the government over the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline workers.
Martin Mayer, secretary of the Sheffield Trade Union Council, told those who gathered in the city to mark the event that many workers "didn't get the protection they should have had".
"We stand here sombrely and with great sadness, but with anger in our hearts too," he said.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer described the silence as a "really emotional moment".
"Coronavirus has shown us who our key workers really are," he said.
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"When this pandemic is over we can't return to business as usual.
"They need proper pay, good working conditions, and a vision of a better society."
In a video message earlier, Sir Keir said "too many" frontline workers had died "and we owe them a huge debt".
In a video message, the Labour leader said: "Nobody should put their lives at risk because they haven't got the right protective equipment.
"We owe it to them to make sure that we've got the right equipment, in the right place at the right time, and we will continue to press on that."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:45 New data shows the scale of the health crisis
Mr Hancock was urged to issue a public apology over PPE shortages by the son of a doctor who died after warning the government about a lack of PPE.
Intisar Chowdhury, the son of Dr Abdul Mabud Chowdhury, who died after being diagnosed with COVID-19, challenged Mr Hancock during an LBC phone-in.
The minute's silence was held following a campaign from Unison, the Royal College of Midwives and the Royal College of Nursing to recognise the sacrifices of doctors, nurses, carers, cleaners, porters and bus drivers.
More than 100 NHS and social care workers have died with COVID-19, while workers in other key sectors such as transport are also among those who have died.
Healthcare staff, some in tears, bowed their heads as they remembered their colleagues, followed in some instances by applause.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:38 Son of doctor who died confronts Hancock
Elsewhere, traffic stopped as key workers were remembered.
Dame Donna Kinnair, chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, said: "I am heartened to hear how many people took part in the minute's silence to honour the memory of staff who have tragically died during the pandemic.
"We thought it was important to pay tribute publicly to those who have lost their lives to the virus, and I am proud that so many took the time to do so this morning."
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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She added: "An even greater task now remains - to stop more joining the tragic number of those who have died.
"All key workers, healthcare staff among them, must be afforded the greatest protection."
The silence was marked across the UK in a number of ways:


skynewspolitics--2020-04-28--Top union boss Tim Roache quits due to 'ill health'

The boss of one of the UK and Ireland 's largest trade unions has quit less than six months after being re-elected to the role .
Tim Roache submitted his resignation as general secretary of the GMB Union , which has more than 620,000 members , on Tuesday night due to `` ill health '' .
He was first elected to the role in 2015 and was successfully re-elected for a second term in November last year by a decisive margin .
Announcing his departure , the GMB Union said in a statement : `` Tim has unfortunately been suffering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and has made the difficult decision to stand down from his role , that he does not feel able to continue , in leading our union going forward . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker GMB are among Labour 's biggest funders and helped to bankroll the party 's general election campaign last year .
Mr Roache and GMB nominated Lisa Nandy , now the shadow foreign secretary , in the recent Labour leadership contest and described the Wigan MP as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the debate over the party 's future .
However , Mr Roache and GMB were also supportive of rival candidate Sir Keir Starmer , who went on to win the contest .
Mr Roache recently sought to calm a bitter row over a leaked Labour report on the party 's handling of antisemitism allegations .
GMB members based at Labour 's headquarters backed a motion of no confidence in Labour 's general secretary Jennie Formby , while the union 's London branch demanded an apology from Labour 's top official over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` not going for '' Ms Formby .
He also backed Sir Keir in the setting up of an investigation into the contents of the report and how it was leaked .

The former boss of one of the UK and Ireland's largest trade unions is being investigated following anonymous allegations about his conduct.
Tim Roache quit as general secretary of the GMB Union on Tuesday night due to ill health - less than six months after being re-elected to the role.
It has since emerged that a number of allegations have been made about Mr Roache's conduct while he held the office.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the GMB Union said: "Tim was diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) some years ago, which has previously resulted in two years' sickness absence from work.
"Having been signed off by medical professionals earlier this week, Tim was advised to refrain completely from work - and has now taken the difficult decision to stand down from the role permanently, indicating that he does not feel mentally or physically able to continue to lead our union."
The statement added: "GMB received an anonymous letter, last Wednesday, in which a number of allegations have been made about Tim's conduct whilst he held the office of general secretary.
"An investigation has been launched and it is not appropriate to comment further pending the outcome of that investigation.
"Complaints which are brought to our attention will be dealt with appropriately in line with our policies and procedures and with appropriate regard to fairness and sensitivity."
Mr Roache was first elected general secretary of GMB, which has more than 620,000 members, in 2015 and was successfully re-elected for a second term in November last year by a decisive margin.
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He will be replaced on an acting basis by John Phillips, GMB regional secretary for Wales and South West, until a new general secretary is elected.
That election will be held "as soon as practically possible", the union said.
GMB are among Labour's biggest funders and helped to bankroll the party's general election campaign last year.
Mr Roache and GMB nominated Lisa Nandy, now the shadow foreign secretary, in the recent Labour leadership contest and described the Wigan MP as a "breath of fresh air" in the debate over the party's future.
However, Mr Roache and GMB were also supportive of rival candidate Sir Keir Starmer, who went on to win the contest.
Mr Roache recently sought to calm a bitter row over a leaked Labour report on the party's handling of antisemitism allegations.
GMB members based at Labour's headquarters backed a motion of no confidence in Labour's general secretary Jennie Formby, while the union's London branch demanded an apology from Labour's top official over the document.
But Mr Roache stressed GMB was "not going for" Ms Formby.
He also backed Sir Keir in the setting up of an investigation into the contents of the report and how it was leaked.


skynewspolitics--2020-04-28--Hancock 'worried' over new disease in children possibly linked to COVID-19

The health secretary has expressed his concern about a rare but serious new syndrome in children possibly linked to COVID-19 .
Matt Hancock said a lot of research is being done on the new disease and `` it is something that we 're worried about '' .
Medical experts are investigating a possible link between the coronavirus pandemic and clusters of severe inflammatory disease among infants who are arriving in hospitals with high fevers and swollen arteries .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hancock said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think may be caused by coronavirus and the COVID-19 virus , we 're not 100 % sure because some of the people who got it had n't tested positive , so we 're doing a lot of research now but it is something that we 're worried about . ''
He added that while the disease is rare , it is `` very significant '' for children who do get it .
NHS officials said less than 20 children in England have been admitted to hospital with the syndrome , which causes a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there were currently no confirmed deaths related to the syndrome .
NHS England 's national medical director Professor Stephen Powis said it was `` too early to say '' whether the syndrome is linked to COVID-19 , while chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty said it was `` entirely plausible '' .
Northern Italy - one of the world 's hardest-hit areas during the pandemic - has reported high numbers of children under the age of nine with severe cases of what appears to be Kawasaki disease , which is more common in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affects children under five and symptoms include swollen lymph nodes , skin rashes , fever and in severe cases , inflammation of arteries of the heart .
Professor Anne Marie Rafferty , president of the Royal College of Nursing , said she had heard reports about the similarity of the new syndrome in infants and Kawasaki disease .
`` Actually there 's far too little known about it and the numbers actually at the moment are really too small , '' Prof Rafferty told Sky News .
`` But it is an alert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually being explored and examined by a number of different researchers . ''
Junior British interior minister Victoria Atkins said parents should be vigilant .
She told Sky News : `` It demonstrates just how fast moving this virus is and how unprecedented it is in its effect '' .

The health secretary has expressed his concern about a rare but serious new syndrome in children possibly linked to COVID-19.
Matt Hancock said a lot of research is being done on the new disease and "it is something that we're worried about".
Medical experts are investigating a possible link between the coronavirus pandemic and clusters of severe inflammatory disease among infants who are arriving in hospitals with high fevers and swollen arteries.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Hancock said: "It's a new disease that we think may be caused by coronavirus and the COVID-19 virus, we're not 100% sure because some of the people who got it hadn't tested positive, so we're doing a lot of research now but it is something that we're worried about."
He added that while the disease is rare, it is "very significant" for children who do get it.
Image: A member of the ambulance service wearing personal protective equipment
NHS officials said less than 20 children in England have been admitted to hospital with the syndrome, which causes a toxic shock-style inflammatory reaction.
They said there were currently no confirmed deaths related to the syndrome.
NHS England's national medical director Professor Stephen Powis said it was "too early to say" whether the syndrome is linked to COVID-19, while chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty said it was "entirely plausible".
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Northern Italy - one of the world's hardest-hit areas during the pandemic - has reported high numbers of children under the age of nine with severe cases of what appears to be Kawasaki disease, which is more common in parts of Asia.
Kawasaki disease mainly affects children under five and symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes, fever and in severe cases, inflammation of arteries of the heart.
Professor Anne Marie Rafferty, president of the Royal College of Nursing, said she had heard reports about the similarity of the new syndrome in infants and Kawasaki disease.
"Actually there's far too little known about it and the numbers actually at the moment are really too small," Prof Rafferty told Sky News.
"But it is an alert, and it's something that's actually being explored and examined by a number of different researchers."
Junior British interior minister Victoria Atkins said parents should be vigilant.
She told Sky News: "It demonstrates just how fast moving this virus is and how unprecedented it is in its effect".


skynewspolitics--2020-04-28--Ex-NHS chief calls for coronavirus lockdown exit strategy to give 'sense of hope'

The previous head of the NHS has called on ministers to spell out their coronavirus lockdown exit strategy to give the UK a `` sense of hope '' .
Sir David Nicholson , chief executive of the health service in England until 2014 , told Sky News the strict social distancing measures should remain in place .
But he urged the government to spell out how it plans to return the country to some sort of `` normality '' following the COVID-19 pandemic .
Speaking on the Sky News Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan , he said : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown and all of that organised .
`` But we do need a sense of hope… as to what is the broad pathway that you need to carry out to enable you to get to the place where some level of normality comes about .
`` And I do n't think yet we ’ ve had that narrative from the government .
`` I don ’ t think anyone ’ s suggesting we drop the lockdown tomorrow , but we need to understand what are the kind of steps… because we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enable that to happen . ''
So far more than 20,000 hospital patients have died across the UK , with the true number including those in care homes , hospices and the community expected to be higher .
Sir David said spelling out the next phase of tackling coronavirus was vital for organisations like the NHS to prepare for large-scale changes - such as testing .
`` We need staff testing , we need patient testing on a scale we haven ’ t done so far , as well as the personal protective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s the way in which we ’ ll start to reintroduce a set of services to patients , '' he explained .
`` You do n't introduce mass testing by saying you ’ re going to introduce it - you need to take a lot of action in a detailed way . ''
Sir David said when hospitals start re-opening some non-urgent services that will `` put increased demand on PPE '' .
`` So we need to make sure centrally that people have got their act together and deliver it in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he urged .
The former NHS boss , who oversaw the bird flu outbreak response , added it was `` very , very sad '' that some medics and social care staff are not getting the right PPE and `` put into positions which nobody should be put in '' .
`` If nothing we should be there to ensure the safety of staff and our patients , '' he said .
He also called for a `` radical overhaul of social care '' , which he said the last three or four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do something about and haven ’ t '' .
Addressing the disparity in hospital deaths reported daily and the up to 52 % higher figure found later to have taken place including in care homes , he said : `` There simply is n't the infrastructure around them to… work with the various bureaucracies you have to , to make all of this happen .
`` If nothing else comes out of this , a really radical overhaul of social care has to be a big priority of the government going forward .
@

The previous head of the NHS has called on ministers to spell out their coronavirus lockdown exit strategy to give the UK a "sense of hope".
Sir David Nicholson, chief executive of the health service in England until 2014, told Sky News the strict social distancing measures should remain in place.
But he urged the government to spell out how it plans to return the country to some sort of "normality" following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Image: Sir David Nicholson was chief executive of the NHS until 2014
Speaking on the Sky News Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan, he said: "We need to make sure that we keep the lockdown and all of that organised.
"But we do need a sense of hope… as to what is the broad pathway that you need to carry out to enable you to get to the place where some level of normality comes about.
"And I don't think yet we’ve had that narrative from the government.
"I don’t think anyone’s suggesting we drop the lockdown tomorrow, but we need to understand what are the kind of steps… because we need to make plans in our organisations to enable that to happen."
Image: More than 20,000 people have died with the virus in UK hospitals
So far more than 20,000 hospital patients have died across the UK, with the true number including those in care homes, hospices and the community expected to be higher.
Sir David said spelling out the next phase of tackling coronavirus was vital for organisations like the NHS to prepare for large-scale changes - such as testing.
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"We need staff testing, we need patient testing on a scale we haven’t done so far, as well as the personal protective equipment [PPE] - that’s the way in which we’ll start to reintroduce a set of services to patients," he explained.
"You don't introduce mass testing by saying you’re going to introduce it - you need to take a lot of action in a detailed way."
Image: NHS staff during a minute's silence to remember health workers who died from COVID-19
Sir David said when hospitals start re-opening some non-urgent services that will "put increased demand on PPE".
"So we need to make sure centrally that people have got their act together and deliver it in the time and quantities we need," he urged.
Image: A stay at home message on a motorway
The former NHS boss, who oversaw the bird flu outbreak response, added it was "very, very sad" that some medics and social care staff are not getting the right PPE and "put into positions which nobody should be put in".
"If nothing we should be there to ensure the safety of staff and our patients," he said.
Image: Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been urged to 'overhaul' social care
He also called for a "radical overhaul of social care", which he said the last three or four governments "have said they’ll do something about and haven’t".
Addressing the disparity in hospital deaths reported daily and the up to 52% higher figure found later to have taken place including in care homes, he said: "There simply isn't the infrastructure around them to… work with the various bureaucracies you have to, to make all of this happen.
"If nothing else comes out of this, a really radical overhaul of social care has to be a big priority of the government going forward."


skynewspolitics--2020-04-27--'3m coronavirus deaths and 1bn infections in poorest countries'

Up to a billion people could be infected with coronavirus - with three million deaths - across crisis-affected countries , a leading humanitarian agency has warned .
The International Rescue Committee ( IRC ) , headed by former UK foreign secretary David Miliband , is publishing a new report on Tuesday in which it estimates the devastating impact of COVID-19 in 34 countries in which it operates , including Afghanistan , Syria and Yemen .
In its new analysis , the IRC suggests - without swift action in the coming weeks - that between half a billion to one billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those countries , with between 1.5 million and 3.2 million deaths .
Suggesting the true impact could be even greater , Mr Miliband told Sky News those were `` conservative estimates '' and cautioned the world has `` only weeks to prepare for this disease to go on the rampage in some of the poorest countries '' .
In a call for the world 's richest nations to join together to assist those countries , the former Labour MP added : `` As the debate about lockdown - and how to end it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we need to make sure we recognise this disease is a global disease that will only be fully beaten when it 's beaten everywhere . ''
He accused the world 's richest countries - the G20 - of being `` in a slumber '' over a co-ordinated international response to the COVID-19 crisis .
And he blasted US President Donald Trump for making a `` completely retrograde '' step in vowing to no longer fund the World Health Organisation .
The current impact of coronavirus in poorer countries is almost unknown due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he suggested .
Mr Miliband claimed there is so far a `` massive underestimate '' of only 25,000 cases in Africa , despite it being a continent of more than one billion people .
`` What we can see is , step by step , there are more and more people coming to our health centres that we run around the world , '' he said .
`` We see this disease really taking off by around mid-May and so we can see it creeping forward .
`` We 've got a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preventative work ; that means very basic hand washing stations , it means triaging people by testing them for fever and isolating high fever cases .
`` But we 're also going to have to build up the health systems , because there 's going to be an enormous number of people who need basic therapeutic care . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker With vast economic packages to help businesses during their countries ' lockdowns , Mr Miliband said countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` found money when they needed it '' as he claimed it was a `` matter of morality '' for richer nations to provide resources to others .
He said the IRC 's call is not about providing equipment such as ventilators to countries like South Sudan , but instead about `` getting much more basic infrastructure into place '' .
This is `` so that people can prevent the disease through hand washing , through proper information , through a modicum of social distancing but , also , by isolating cases so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ population '' .
Coronavirus is a `` global disease that is being fought nation by nation , '' added Mr Miliband , as he despaired about the lack of global leadership on display in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` The global nature of the disease is not being matched by the kind of international co-operation that is going to be essential , '' he said .
Mr Miliband , who now lives and works in America , also claimed there was a `` high degree of dysfunction '' in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` a high level of polarisation and mistrust '' in his adopted country .
He added : `` One of the things we know about this crisis is that it requires high levels of social trust for an effective response .
`` Countries like South Korea and Germany have shown that .
`` The rallying that 's happened in the UK to support the NHS ... that speaks to social cohesion .
`` We 're not seeing that in the US at the moment , even before you get into the absurdities of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its ill effects .
`` There 's a big question now that America is going to have to confront - how does it combine a more effective domestic response with a reassertion of international leadership ? ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker

Up to a billion people could be infected with coronavirus - with three million deaths - across crisis-affected countries, a leading humanitarian agency has warned.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC), headed by former UK foreign secretary David Miliband, is publishing a new report on Tuesday in which it estimates the devastating impact of COVID-19 in 34 countries in which it operates, including Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen.
In its new analysis, the IRC suggests - without swift action in the coming weeks - that between half a billion to one billion people could be infected with coronavirus in those countries, with between 1.5 million and 3.2 million deaths.
Suggesting the true impact could be even greater, Mr Miliband told Sky News those were "conservative estimates" and cautioned the world has "only weeks to prepare for this disease to go on the rampage in some of the poorest countries".
In a call for the world's richest nations to join together to assist those countries, the former Labour MP added: "As the debate about lockdown - and how to end it - develops in countries like the UK, we need to make sure we recognise this disease is a global disease that will only be fully beaten when it's beaten everywhere."
He accused the world's richest countries - the G20 - of being "in a slumber" over a co-ordinated international response to the COVID-19 crisis.
And he blasted US President Donald Trump for making a "completely retrograde" step in vowing to no longer fund the World Health Organisation.
Image: US President Donald Trump has vowed to no longer fund the WHO
The current impact of coronavirus in poorer countries is almost unknown due to "threadbare" testing regimes, he suggested.
Mr Miliband claimed there is so far a "massive underestimate" of only 25,000 cases in Africa, despite it being a continent of more than one billion people.
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"What we can see is, step by step, there are more and more people coming to our health centres that we run around the world," he said.
"We see this disease really taking off by around mid-May and so we can see it creeping forward.
"We've got a few weeks left to do some essential precautionary preventative work; that means very basic hand washing stations, it means triaging people by testing them for fever and isolating high fever cases.
"But we're also going to have to build up the health systems, because there's going to be an enormous number of people who need basic therapeutic care."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
With vast economic packages to help businesses during their countries' lockdowns, Mr Miliband said countries such as the US and UK had "found money when they needed it" as he claimed it was a "matter of morality" for richer nations to provide resources to others.
He said the IRC's call is not about providing equipment such as ventilators to countries like South Sudan, but instead about "getting much more basic infrastructure into place".
This is "so that people can prevent the disease through hand washing, through proper information, through a modicum of social distancing but, also, by isolating cases so they don't spread across the whole population".
Coronavirus is a "global disease that is being fought nation by nation," added Mr Miliband, as he despaired about the lack of global leadership on display in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The global nature of the disease is not being matched by the kind of international co-operation that is going to be essential," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 Lights and disinfectant: Trump's cure suggestions
Mr Miliband, who now lives and works in America, also claimed there was a "high degree of dysfunction" in the US response to coronavirus, coupled with "a high level of polarisation and mistrust" in his adopted country.
He added: "One of the things we know about this crisis is that it requires high levels of social trust for an effective response.
"Countries like South Korea and Germany have shown that.
"The rallying that's happened in the UK to support the NHS... that speaks to social cohesion.
"We're not seeing that in the US at the moment, even before you get into the absurdities of last week's discussions about bleach and its ill effects.
"There's a big question now that America is going to have to confront - how does it combine a more effective domestic response with a reassertion of international leadership?"
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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skynewspolitics--2020-04-29--UK could have highest total deaths from coronavirus outbreak in Europe - minister

The UK could end up with the highest death toll of people with coronavirus in Europe , a minister has acknowledged .
Environment Secretary George Eustice told Sky News it `` may well be '' the case that the death toll of people with COVID-19 in Britain eventually surpasses the totals seen in the likes of Italy , Spain and France .
`` We 've been on similar trajectories to France and Italy , '' he told Kay Burley @ Breakfast .
`` It may well be that we are , who knows , we do n't know that at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we just need to focus on managing this pandemic .
Getting things moving in the right direction , making sure that we can save lives , making sure we 've got capacity in the NHS to cope with this .
`` All of those things are being done .
People are working incredibly hard in the NHS to help people who are suffering from this virus .
`` That 's our focus now , not necessarily contemplating where we may or may not end up in terms of total deaths at the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Department of Health show that a total of 21,678 people have died in UK hospitals after testing positive for the coronavirus .
As of Wednesday morning , there have been 23,660 deaths in France , 23,822 in Spain and 27,359 in Italy , according to Johns Hopkins University : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But the true UK death toll will be much higher , as the daily Department of Health total does not include deaths in care homes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government will for the first time include these deaths in its daily total .
At the moment , there is an 11-day lag for the Office of National Statistics ' ( ONS ) data on the number of people who have died in care homes and their own homes after catching the virus .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the move at the daily coronavirus news conference on Monday .
The Department of Health and Social Care said figures dating back from early March up to 28 April would also be declared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confidence that the government will be able to meet its target of 100,000 daily COVID-19 tests by the end of this month .
From today , care home residents and staff , together with NHS patients and staff , can now get tested whether they have symptoms or not .
People over the age of 65 , plus anyone in their households , are also eligible , but only if they have symptoms .
Some 43,453 tests were carried out across the UK on Monday .
`` The capacity will be there and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be tested because we are widening this right out today so that anyone over the age of 65 , anyone working in a key industry can get a test , '' Mr Eustice said .
`` They just need to go online and book one . ''

The UK could end up with the highest death toll of people with coronavirus in Europe, a minister has acknowledged.
Environment Secretary George Eustice told Sky News it "may well be" the case that the death toll of people with COVID-19 in Britain eventually surpasses the totals seen in the likes of Italy, Spain and France.
"We've been on similar trajectories to France and Italy," he told Kay Burley@Breakfast.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:33 How many people are dying of COVID-19?
"It may well be that we are, who knows, we don't know that at the moment.
"For now, we just need to focus on managing this pandemic. Getting things moving in the right direction, making sure that we can save lives, making sure we've got capacity in the NHS to cope with this.
"All of those things are being done. People are working incredibly hard in the NHS to help people who are suffering from this virus.
"That's our focus now, not necessarily contemplating where we may or may not end up in terms of total deaths at the end of this."
The latest figures from the Department of Health show that a total of 21,678 people have died in UK hospitals after testing positive for the coronavirus.
As of Wednesday morning, there have been 23,660 deaths in France, 23,822 in Spain and 27,359 in Italy, according to Johns Hopkins University
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Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But the true UK death toll will be much higher, as the daily Department of Health total does not include deaths in care homes and the community.
Later on Wednesday, the government will for the first time include these deaths in its daily total.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:27 How good are masks at stopping virus spread?
At the moment, there is an 11-day lag for the Office of National Statistics' (ONS) data on the number of people who have died in care homes and their own homes after catching the virus.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the move at the daily coronavirus news conference on Monday.
The Department of Health and Social Care said figures dating back from early March up to 28 April would also be declared.
Meanwhile, Mr Eustice has expressed confidence that the government will be able to meet its target of 100,000 daily COVID-19 tests by the end of this month.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Hancock announces expansion of COVID-19 testing
From today, care home residents and staff, together with NHS patients and staff, can now get tested whether they have symptoms or not.
People over the age of 65, plus anyone in their households, are also eligible, but only if they have symptoms.
Some 43,453 tests were carried out across the UK on Monday.
"The capacity will be there and we are confident that those 100,000 people will be tested because we are widening this right out today so that anyone over the age of 65, anyone working in a key industry can get a test," Mr Eustice said.
"They just need to go online and book one."


skynewspolitics--2020-04-29--Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds announce birth of baby boy

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his fiancee Carrie Symonds have announced the birth of a `` healthy baby boy '' .
The couple are `` thrilled '' and both mother and baby are `` doing very well '' following the birth at a London hospital on Wednesday morning , their spokeswoman said .
It is understood Mr Johnson was present throughout the birth .
`` The PM and Ms Symonds would like to thank the fantastic NHS maternity team , '' their spokeswoman said .
Mr Johnson only returned to work on Monday after spending time in intensive care with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the disease .
The couple announced at the end of February that they were expecting a baby in `` early summer '' and they became engaged at the end of last year .
Sky News understands that the PM will take paternity leave later in the year because he wants to focus on dealing with the COVID-19 crisis .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will stand in for Mr Johnson at Prime Minister 's Questions later .
The PM 's father Stanley Johnson said he was `` absolutely delighted '' by the birth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support from across politics poured in following the news .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock posted on Twitter : `` So thrilled for Boris and Carrie .
Wonderful to have a moment of unalloyed joy ! ''
Chancellor Rishi Sunak tweeted : `` Great to hear Downing Street is getting a new resident .
Congratulations to @ BorisJohnson and @ carriesymonds on the birth of their son . ''
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said : `` Wonderful news .
Many congratulations to Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds . ''
And Scottish First Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news - sending congratulations to Carrie and the PM .
And wishing health and happiness to the wee one . ''
Ms Symonds announced she was pregnant in February in a post on her Instagram account .
`` I would n't normally post this kind of thing on here , but I wanted my friends to find out from me , '' she wrote .
`` Many of you already know , but for my friends that still do n't , we got engaged at the end of last year , and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Feel incredibly blessed . ''
Earlier this month Ms Symonds told how life got `` very dark '' at times while her husband-to-be spent a week in St Thomas ' Hospital with coronavirus , including three nights in intensive care .
Mr Johnson , 55 , and 32-year-old Ms Symonds made history as the first unmarried couple to officially live together in Downing Street when they moved in last July .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The baby is Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson already has four grown-up children with his second wife Marina Wheeler ; Lara , Milo , Cassie and Theodore .
The PM also has a daughter with art consultant Helen Macintyre .
There has been speculation that Mr Johnson has fathered another extra-marital child .
Asked how many children he had during the general election in November , he told LBC : `` I love my children very much but they are not standing at this election .
I 'm therefore not going to comment on them . ''
The new arrival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serving prime minister in recent history .
Tony Blair 's wife Cherie gave birth to son Leo in May 2000 , three years after her husband 's first election victory , and David Cameron and wife Samantha welcomed daughter Florence in 2010 .
The last babies born to prime ministers before Leo and Florence arrived more than 150 years ago .

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his fiancee Carrie Symonds have announced the birth of a "healthy baby boy".
The couple are "thrilled" and both mother and baby are "doing very well" following the birth at a London hospital on Wednesday morning, their spokeswoman said.
It is understood Mr Johnson was present throughout the birth. A photograph of him beaming on his return to Number 10 following the arrival of his son has been released by Downing Street.
Image: Carrie Symonds announced she was pregnant in February in a post on her Instagram account
Image: Boris Johnson after the birth of his son with Carrie Symonds. Pic: Andrew Parsons / No 10 Downing St
"The PM and Ms Symonds would like to thank the fantastic NHS maternity team," their spokeswoman said.
Mr Johnson only returned to work on Monday after spending time in intensive care with coronavirus.
Ms Symonds also suffered symptoms of the disease.
The couple announced at the end of February that they were expecting a baby in "early summer" and they became engaged at the end of last year.
Image: The couple had said they were expecting a baby in 'early summer'. Pic:Javier Garcia/BPI/Shutterstock
A Downing Street spokesman said the PM will take a short period of paternity leave later this year.
Mr Johnson returned to work in Number 10 following the birth, and spoke to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer on Wednesday afternoon about the UK's COVID-19 response.
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The prime minister and his family are planning to live in their Downing Street flat along with their dog Dilyn, the Downing Street spokesman said.
The spokesman declined to say whether the baby was born prematurely, and did not provide details of the weight, timing, nature or location of the birth.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:19 March 3: Johnson 'almost certainly' will take paternity leave
The PM's father Stanley Johnson said he was "absolutely delighted" by the arrival of his grandson, while Buckingham Palace said the Queen sent a private message of good wishes to the couple to congratulate them.
Messages of support also poured in from across the political spectrum following the news.
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Health Secretary Matt Hancock posted on Twitter: "So thrilled for Boris and Carrie. Wonderful to have a moment of unalloyed joy!"
Chancellor Rishi Sunak tweeted: "Great to hear Downing Street is getting a new resident. Congratulations to @BorisJohnson and @carriesymonds on the birth of their son."
Image: Mr Johnson only returned to work on Monday after contracting coronavirus
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "Wonderful news. Many congratulations to Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds."
And Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon wrote: "Some good news - sending congratulations to Carrie and the PM. And wishing health and happiness to the wee one."
Ms Symonds announced she was pregnant in February in a post on her Instagram account.
"I wouldn't normally post this kind of thing on here, but I wanted my friends to find out from me," she wrote.
Image: Mr Johnson and Ms Symonds adopted a dog called Dilyn
"Many of you already know, but for my friends that still don't, we got engaged at the end of last year, and we've got a baby hatching early summer. Feel incredibly blessed."
Earlier this month Ms Symonds told how life got "very dark" at times while her husband-to-be spent a week in St Thomas' Hospital with coronavirus, including three nights in intensive care.
Mr Johnson, 55, and 32-year-old Ms Symonds made history as the first unmarried couple to officially live together in Downing Street when they moved in last July.
The baby is Ms Symonds' first child, while Mr Johnson already has four grown-up children with his second wife Marina Wheeler; Lara, Milo, Cassie and Theodore.
The PM also has a daughter with art consultant Helen Macintyre.
There has been speculation that Mr Johnson has fathered another extra-marital child.
Image: The couple's baby is Ms Symonds' first child
Asked how many children he had during the general election in November, he told LBC: "I love my children very much but they are not standing at this election. I'm therefore not going to comment on them."
The new arrival is the third baby born to a serving prime minister in recent history.
Tony Blair's wife Cherie gave birth to son Leo in May 2000, three years after her husband's first election victory, and David Cameron and wife Samantha welcomed daughter Florence in 2010.
The last babies born to prime ministers before Leo and Florence arrived more than 150 years ago.


skynewspolitics--2020-04-29--'Phased' reopening of schools will see pupils return at different times

Schoolchildren will not all return to lessons at the same time , the education secretary has confirmed , in a strong hint that many will not be back until the autumn .
Gavin Williamson told a committee of MPs today that he could not give a date for schools to begin reopening , but that it would have to be `` phased '' .
He revealed that he had asked the government 's scientific advisory group ( SAGE ) to report on which children should return first - taking into account the effect of coronavirus on children , and whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be at higher risk .
Mr Williamson said : `` The decision to return schools in a phased manner will be made right across government in the best interests of the schools and the teachers , making sure all considerations are taken on board .
`` We are looking at many countries across the globe which are some weeks ahead of us - such as Germany and Denmark . ''
The education secretary , who was challenged by MPs on whether he would provide a `` catch-up premium '' to fund one-on-one tuition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to school , said he was considering all options , but could not announce further policies yet .
Committee chair , the Conservative MP Robert Halfon , put it to the education secretary that the widening attainment gap for the vulnerable ; significant safeguarding issues and the `` digital divide '' affecting children who do not have a computer at home would fuel `` a cascade of mounting social injustice which could last a generation '' .
Mr Williamson said a range of policies was being considered to help all schoolchildren `` who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period of their education '' , but with additional support targeted to the most disadvantaged .
A scheme to provide 200,000 free laptops and wifi connections to some children - those in care , with a social worker , and some disadvantaged children in year 10 - will not start to deliver those laptops until late May , with most sent out in June , Mr Williamson said , suggesting many pupils will still be at home during the summer term .
A source at the education department said the laptop delivery scheme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools , as the children would be able to keep them .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier on Wednesday , more than 50 MPs and peers wrote to the education secretary , warning that urgent action is needed to prevent the poorest pupils falling behind long-term .
They suggested funding of £300m - or £700 per pupil for those on free school meals - be used to fund 30 minutes of tuition three times a week for 12 weeks , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools reopen .
The government has consistently refused to say when schools may start to re-open , but sources say the earliest date being discussed is the beginning of June .
The MPs , all representing northern constituencies , said in the letter : `` The most disadvantaged children fall behind their peers over a long summer holiday and the shutdown will widen the North 's disadvantage gap and with it the North-South education divide .
`` We need to deal with the consequences of this crisis for the most vulnerable in our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low-income households . ''
They cited research from the Northern Powerhouse Partnership showing pupils in the North of England are most likely to be from communities who make the slowest progress at secondary school including white working class boys and girls .
Mr Williamson has said there are no current plans for schools to stay open during the summer holidays to help pupils catch up on the lesson time they have missed , and suggested that enforcing social distancing in schools would be challenging .
While some schools have remained open to teach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are most vulnerable , officials figures show turnout last week was below 2 % of all pupils .
Sky News has highlighted the difficulties for large numbers of families in accessing online lessons since schools closed a month ago .
Some headteachers reported that up to 40 % of their pupils live in a home with no computer , while many more children have to share one device with parents and siblings .

Schoolchildren in England will not all return to lessons at the same time, the education secretary has confirmed, in a strong hint that many will not be back until the autumn.
Gavin Williamson has told a committee of MPs that he could not give a date for schools in England to begin reopening, but that it would have to be "phased".
He revealed that he had asked the government's scientific advisory group (SAGE) to report on which children should return first - taking into account the effect of coronavirus on children, and whether black and ethnic minority school staff may be at higher risk.
Image: Gavin Williamson was asked if poorer students would be given extra help
Mr Williamson said: "The decision to return schools in a phased manner will be made right across government in the best interests of the schools and the teachers, making sure all considerations are taken on board.
"We are looking at many countries across the globe which are some weeks ahead of us - such as Germany and Denmark."
He promised headteachers "plenty of notice".
Deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam said it was "premature" to be discussing a return to classrooms, but that the idea was "in the mix".
The education secretary, who was challenged by MPs on whether he would provide a "catch-up premium" to fund one-on-one tuition for the poorest pupils when they return to school, said he was considering all options, but could not announce further policies yet.
Committee chair, the Conservative MP Robert Halfon, put it to the education secretary that the widening attainment gap for the vulnerable; significant safeguarding issues and the "digital divide" affecting children who do not have a computer at home would fuel "a cascade of mounting social injustice which could last a generation".
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Mr Williamson said a range of policies was being considered to help all schoolchildren "who will suffer from missing out on a period of their education", but with additional support targeted to the most disadvantaged.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 12:10 Minister 'can't put date on schools opening'
A scheme to provide 200,000 free laptops and wifi connections to some children - those in care, with a social worker, and some disadvantaged children in year 10 - will not start to deliver those laptops until late May, with most sent out in June, Mr Williamson said, suggesting many pupils will still be at home during the summer term.
A source at the education department said the laptop delivery scheme was not linked to the reopening of schools, as the children would be able to keep them.
The government has consistently refused to say when schools may start to re-open, but sources say the earliest date being discussed is the beginning of June.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Earlier on Wednesday, more than 50 MPs and peers wrote to the education secretary, warning that urgent action is needed to prevent the poorest pupils falling behind long-term.
They suggested funding of £300m - or £700 per pupil for those on free school meals - be used to fund 30 minutes of tuition three times a week for 12 weeks, to help these pupils catch up when schools reopen.
The MPs, all representing northern constituencies, said in the letter: "The most disadvantaged children fall behind their peers over a long summer holiday and the shutdown will widen the North's disadvantage gap and with it the North-South education divide.
"We need to deal with the consequences of this crisis for the most vulnerable in our society and that must include children from low-income households."
They cited research from the Northern Powerhouse Partnership showing pupils in the North of England are most likely to be from communities who make the slowest progress at secondary school including white working class boys and girls.
Mr Williamson has said there are no current plans for schools to stay open during the summer holidays to help pupils catch up on the lesson time they have missed, and suggested that enforcing social distancing in schools would be challenging.
While some schools have remained open to teach the children of key workers and those who are most vulnerable, official figures show attendance last week was below 2% of all pupils.
Sky News has highlighted the difficulties for large numbers of families in accessing online lessons since schools closed a month ago.
Some headteachers reported that up to 40% of their pupils live in a home with no computer, while many more children have to share one device with parents and siblings.


skynewspolitics--2020-04-29--Calls for Patel bullying report release amid reports home secretary 'cleared'

Labour has called for the results of an investigation into bullying allegations against Priti Patel to be made public as soon as possible , amid reports the home secretary has been cleared .
The Cabinet Office investigation was launched in the wake of Sir Philip Rutnam quitting as permanent secretary at the Home Office .
When he announced his resignation in February , Sir Philip claimed he had been the target of a `` vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign '' which he accused the home secretary of being behind .
He also said he had heard claims of Ms Patel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , making unreasonable and repeated demands '' .
Sir Philip has since launched legal action against the home secretary .
Subsequent claims about Ms Patel from her time in other government departments later emerged , prompting Prime Minister Boris Johnson to order the Cabinet Office review .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Supporters of the home secretary have rallied round her and say she is the victim of a smear campaign , while the PM has said he backs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of bullying that have been made against her .
According to the Daily Telegraph , the review is `` believed to have found 'no evidence ' '' to substantiate the allegations that she bullied staff at the Home Office and other departments where she worked .
There has been no official comment on whether the inquiry has finished , but multiple reports say the home secretary has been cleared of breaching the ministerial code .
Labour is now calling for the results of the investigation to be made public .
A letter to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nick Thomas-Symonds and Rachel Reeves , said : `` We appreciate that the country is dealing with an unprecedented challenge in response to the coronavirus and the prime minister 's illness , in respect of which we wish him a swift recovery .
`` However , it is absolutely vital that the findings of the inquiry are made public as soon as possible .
`` At a time when additional powers are being assumed by the government , the imperative that the public are completely assured of the conduct of senior ministers is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who is supporting Sir Philip as general secretary of the FDA civil servants ' union , said the timing of the reports was `` suspicious '' .
Ms Patel is due to appear before the Home Affairs Select Committee on Wednesday to face questions about the Home Office 's response to the coronavirus outbreak .
Mr Penman told the Press Association : `` The ministerial code was never really intended to deal with these sorts of issues like bullying and harassment , it was for things like conflicts of interest from ministers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal bullying and harassment process any significant employer would have or would apply to anyone else in the civil service .
`` The whole process is a relic from a bygone age and what we need is an independent and transparent process where ministers can be held to account for their behaviour or exonerated quickly and publicly if there 's nothing there . ''

Labour has called for the results of an investigation into bullying allegations against Priti Patel to be made public as soon as possible, amid reports the home secretary has been cleared.
The Cabinet Office investigation was launched in the wake of Sir Philip Rutnam quitting as permanent secretary at the Home Office.
When he announced his resignation in February, Sir Philip claimed he had been the target of a "vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign" which he accused the home secretary of being behind.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 'I don't believe Priti Patel'
He also said he had heard claims of Ms Patel "shouting and swearing, belittling people, making unreasonable and repeated demands".
Sir Philip has since launched legal action against the home secretary.
Subsequent claims about Ms Patel from her time in other government departments later emerged, prompting Prime Minister Boris Johnson to order the Cabinet Office review.
Supporters of the home secretary have rallied round her and say she is the victim of a smear campaign, while the PM has said he backs her.
Ms Patel rejects all claims of bullying that have been made against her.
According to the Daily Telegraph, the review is "believed to have found 'no evidence'" to substantiate the allegations that she bullied staff at the Home Office and other departments where she worked.
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There has been no official comment on whether the inquiry has finished, but multiple reports say the home secretary has been cleared of breaching the ministerial code.
Labour is now calling for the results of the investigation to be made public.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:18 PM orders investigation into Patel bullying claims
A letter to Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove, frontbenchers Nick Thomas-Symonds and Rachel Reeves, said: "We appreciate that the country is dealing with an unprecedented challenge in response to the coronavirus and the prime minister's illness, in respect of which we wish him a swift recovery.
"However, it is absolutely vital that the findings of the inquiry are made public as soon as possible.
"At a time when additional powers are being assumed by the government, the imperative that the public are completely assured of the conduct of senior ministers is even greater."
Dave Penman, who is supporting Sir Philip as general secretary of the FDA civil servants' union, said the timing of the reports was "suspicious".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:26 PM defends his home secretary over claims that she is a bully
They emerged hours before Ms Patel appeared before the Home Affairs Select Committee on Wednesday to face questions about the Home Office's response to the coronavirus outbreak.
She was not asked about the Cabinet Office report during the session.
Mr Penman told the Press Association: "The ministerial code was never really intended to deal with these sorts of issues like bullying and harassment, it was for things like conflicts of interest from ministers.
"It doesn't equate to any normal bullying and harassment process any significant employer would have or would apply to anyone else in the civil service.
"The whole process is a relic from a bygone age and what we need is an independent and transparent process where ministers can be held to account for their behaviour or exonerated quickly and publicly if there's nothing there."