skynewspolitics--2020-06-07--Protests 'undoubtedly risk' increasing coronavirus cases - health sec

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has told Sky News `` it is undoubtedly a risk '' that the number of coronavirus cases will rise in the UK following the Black Lives Matter protests .
He told the Sophy Ridge on Sunday show : `` I support very strongly the argument that is being made by those who are protesting for more equality and against discrimination , but the virus itself does n't discriminate .
`` Gathering in large groups is temporarily against the rules precisely because it increases the risk of the spread of this virus .
`` So I would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I will support you in making that argument , but please do n't spread this virus which has already done so much damage and we are starting to get under control . ''
On Saturday , tens of thousands of people across the UK defied government pleas and protested against racism after the death in the US of George Floyd .
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said 14 officers were injured during clashes with a minority of protesters in central London , following a peaceful Black Lives Matter demonstration .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another way '' of making their voices heard , rather than descending on the streets amid the coronavirus crisis .
Asked if he thought this country was racist , Mr Hancock replied : `` I do n't , but I do think that there is injustice that needs to be tackled , and I think that we are one of the most tolerant and open societies in the world , but I think there is always more that can and must be done , especially to empower people to achieve their potential .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ protests are `` based in response to events in America , rather than here '' , but he urged protesters to make their argument `` in a way that 's safe and controls the virus '' .
Pressed on why restrictions are being eased when the coronavirus alert level remains at 4 - which it has been since the lockdown was announced - Mr Hancock said the UK was `` winning the battle '' against the COVID-19 outbreak .
`` Sadly there are still people dying but the number of people dying each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people admitted to hospital is falling , the number of people in hospital is falling .
`` We are winning the battle against this disease and that allows us to release more of the restrictions - including putting in place this local action supported by the test and trace system .
`` But we 've got to be cautious in our approach to it because the last thing anybody wants is for the virus to get going again and us to have to go right back to square one . ''
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a conflict between the economy and health in relaxing the rules .
`` The worst thing for the economy would be a second spike and so there is n't this trade-off that much is made of in the media between the health and the economy , '' he said .
`` I care deeply about getting the economy going , and the best way to get the economy going is to ensure that we get the number of new infections right down . ''
Another 204 people have died with the virus in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department of Health figures released yesterday .
The data came alongside an indication that hospital deaths from COVID-19 in England are down .
Public Health England ( PHE ) said that 75 more people had died in hospital , the lowest number since 25 May , and the second lowest since 25 March , just after the lockdown began .

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has told Sky News "it is undoubtedly a risk" that the number of coronavirus cases will rise in the UK following the Black Lives Matter protests.
He told the Sophy Ridge on Sunday show: "I support very strongly the argument that is being made by those who are protesting for more equality and against discrimination, but the virus itself doesn't discriminate.
"Gathering in large groups is temporarily against the rules precisely because it increases the risk of the spread of this virus.
"So I would urge people to make their argument, and I will support you in making that argument, but please don't spread this virus which has already done so much damage and we are starting to get under control."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Moment police officer rides into traffic light
On Saturday, tens of thousands of people across the UK defied government pleas and protested against racism after the death in the US of George Floyd.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said 14 officers were injured during clashes with a minority of protesters in central London, following a peaceful Black Lives Matter demonstration.
She too has urged protesters to find "another way" of making their voices heard, rather than descending on the streets amid the coronavirus crisis.
Asked if he thought this country was racist, Mr Hancock replied: "I don't, but I do think that there is injustice that needs to be tackled, and I think that we are one of the most tolerant and open societies in the world, but I think there is always more that can and must be done, especially to empower people to achieve their potential."
He said "thankfully" the protests are "based in response to events in America, rather than here", but he urged protesters to make their argument "in a way that's safe and controls the virus".
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Image: The COVID alert system being used by the government
Pressed on why restrictions are being eased when the coronavirus alert level remains at 4 - which it has been since the lockdown was announced - Mr Hancock said the UK was "winning the battle" against the COVID-19 outbreak.
"Sadly there are still people dying but the number of people dying each day is also falling, the number of people admitted to hospital is falling, the number of people in hospital is falling.
"We are winning the battle against this disease and that allows us to release more of the restrictions - including putting in place this local action supported by the test and trace system.
"But we've got to be cautious in our approach to it because the last thing anybody wants is for the virus to get going again and us to have to go right back to square one."
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Hancock sought to play down reports of a conflict between the economy and health in relaxing the rules.
"The worst thing for the economy would be a second spike and so there isn't this trade-off that much is made of in the media between the health and the economy," he said.
"I care deeply about getting the economy going, and the best way to get the economy going is to ensure that we get the number of new infections right down."
Another 204 people have died with the virus in the UK, according to the latest Department of Health figures released yesterday.
The data came alongside an indication that hospital deaths from COVID-19 in England are down.
Public Health England (PHE) said that 75 more people had died in hospital, the lowest number since 25 May, and the second lowest since 25 March, just after the lockdown began.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-07--Veteran Labour MP feels 'discriminated against' by Commons return

A veteran Labour MP has told Sky News she has been `` disenfranchised and discriminated against '' over the controversial return of the House of Commons during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Dame Margaret Hodge has spoken of her anger after the government dropped virtual proceedings , which had allowed her and other members unable to attend the chamber to contribute remotely and vote online .
Appearing on the Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme , the 75-year-old compared the ensuing lengthy queues of MPs waiting to vote to `` a Gilbert and Sullivan farce '' .
The former minister argued the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public interest , as Boris Johnson needed `` braying '' backbenchers behind him during his weekly clashes with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister 's Questions .
Dame Margaret said the situation meant she would be barred from taking part in an emergency debate on how the Commons operates during the coronavirus outbreak , scheduled for Monday , despite it directly affecting her .
Labour frontbencher Jim McMahon has also urged the need for a review of the way parliament works during the current crisis , branding the long queues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The criticism follows a stream of complaints about requiring MPs to travel across the UK to attend Westminster in person , while social distancing requirements limit numbers in the chamber to 50 .
However , in the face of pressure , proxy voting has been extended to those who can not attend on medical or health grounds .
Dame Margaret said : `` What is happening which is makes me so angry is I am allowed to vote but I ca n't take part in debates around legislation .
`` There is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would like to virtually take part in that debate and I have been told I ca n't do that .
`` So I am being disenfranchised and discriminated against on a debate that is discussing my disenfranchisement and my discrimination .
It is just a nonsense . ''
She added : `` I want to hold the government to account ... and yet I am being prevented from doing so by rules that have been brought in not to make parliament more accountable and better but actually I think for political not public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker She said of the prime minister : `` He ca n't operate without a crowd behind him braying whereas Keir Starmer has been excellent in a very detailed way challenging the government .
`` I think this is about getting the crowds behind Boris at PMQs rather than good governance . ''
Speaking to Ridge , Mr McMahon , the shadow transport secretary , also backed a return to electronic voting .
He said : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way that parliament works .
`` The frustration with parliament of course is if it 's at all avoidable , then it should be avoided and we can vote electronically , we can vote in 15 seconds , we do n't have to be queuing up for 40 minutes .
`` Aside from it being unsafe in my view , it 's often a massively inefficient way of working . ''
Mr McMahon also said that concerns around the number of people gathering for anti-racism protests need to be `` put into perspective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in person in parliament last week .
Mr McMahon added : `` In terms of equity , MPs were in parliament lining up , often breaking social distancing because of the pinch points , in terms of upholding our democratic responsibility .
`` We all need to understand that peaceful assembly is also a very important part of our democratic process as well . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has defended the move to bring politicians back to London .
Speaking at PMQs on Wednesday , he said MPs should consider `` what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , with Britons `` getting used to queuing for long periods of time to do their shopping or whatever it happens to be '' .
The PM continued : `` I do not think it 's unreasonable that we should ask parliamentarians to come back to this place and do their job for the people of this country . ''

A veteran Labour MP has told Sky News she has been "disenfranchised and discriminated against" over the controversial return of the House of Commons during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dame Margaret Hodge has spoken of her anger after the government dropped virtual proceedings, which had allowed her and other members unable to attend the chamber to contribute remotely and vote online.
Appearing on the Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme, the 75-year-old compared the ensuing lengthy queues of MPs waiting to vote to "a Gilbert and Sullivan farce".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:34 MPs face huge voting queues in Parliament
The former minister argued the move was political, rather than in the public interest, as Boris Johnson needed "braying" backbenchers behind him during his weekly clashes with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister's Questions.
Dame Margaret said the situation meant she would be barred from taking part in an emergency debate on how the Commons operates during the coronavirus outbreak, scheduled for Monday, despite it directly affecting her.
Labour frontbencher Jim McMahon has also urged the need for a review of the way parliament works during the current crisis, branding the long queues for voting "unsafe and inefficient".
The criticism follows a stream of complaints about requiring MPs to travel across the UK to attend Westminster in person, while social distancing requirements limit numbers in the chamber to 50.
However, in the face of pressure, proxy voting has been extended to those who cannot attend on medical or health grounds.
Dame Margaret said: "What is happening which is makes me so angry is I am allowed to vote but I can't take part in debates around legislation.
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"There is a debate on virtual access and I would like to virtually take part in that debate and I have been told I can't do that.
"So I am being disenfranchised and discriminated against on a debate that is discussing my disenfranchisement and my discrimination. It is just a nonsense."
She added: "I want to hold the government to account... and yet I am being prevented from doing so by rules that have been brought in not to make parliament more accountable and better but actually I think for political not public good reasons."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
She said of the prime minister: "He can't operate without a crowd behind him braying whereas Keir Starmer has been excellent in a very detailed way challenging the government.
"I think this is about getting the crowds behind Boris at PMQs rather than good governance."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:36 Health secretary quizzed on cabinet diversity
Speaking to Ridge, Mr McMahon, the shadow transport secretary, also backed a return to electronic voting.
He said: "I do think we need to review the way that parliament works.
"The frustration with parliament of course is if it's at all avoidable, then it should be avoided and we can vote electronically, we can vote in 15 seconds, we don't have to be queuing up for 40 minutes.
"Aside from it being unsafe in my view, it's often a massively inefficient way of working."
Mr McMahon also said that concerns around the number of people gathering for anti-racism protests need to be "put into perspective" in the light of MPs voting in person in parliament last week.
Mr McMahon added: "In terms of equity, MPs were in parliament lining up, often breaking social distancing because of the pinch points, in terms of upholding our democratic responsibility.
"We all need to understand that peaceful assembly is also a very important part of our democratic process as well."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 Tour a deserted House of Commons
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has defended the move to bring politicians back to London.
Speaking at PMQs on Wednesday, he said MPs should consider "what is really going on throughout the country", with Britons "getting used to queuing for long periods of time to do their shopping or whatever it happens to be".
The PM continued: "I do not think it's unreasonable that we should ask parliamentarians to come back to this place and do their job for the people of this country."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-07--PM to set out plans to rebuild economy amid fears of lack of strategy over second surge

Boris Johnson will make a key speech on rebuilding Britain 's economy in the wake of the coronavirus crisis , amid growing concern that he does not have an effective strategy for preventing a second peak of the virus .
Fear is growing among ministers that millions of jobs may be lost if pubs and restaurants are not allowed to reopen this summer and Mr Johnson is understood to have tasked his team with developing plans to get business moving as soon as possible to prevent a major economic slowdown .
But medical professionals have warned that the prime minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coping with the coronavirus as the death rate remains high and the rate of transmission has risen above 1 in some areas .
In a speech within the next few weeks Mr Johnson will set out how his government will fast-track infrastructure projects in order to create jobs and rebuild the economy .
He is also understood to be looking at how to increase apprenticeships , improve the use of data across government and bolster the NHS before a potential second outbreak this winter .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spotify , Spreaker However medical professionals have warned of a breakdown of trust and communication between the NHS and ministers in the wake of a government announcement calling on all hospital staff to wear face masks made earlier this week .
Chris Hopson , chief executive of NHS Providers , said hospital trusts had not been warned of the changes and highlighted fears about supply of masks to staff .
Speaking to the Observer newspaper , Mr Hopson said : `` The real concern is that we do n't have that same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not having the kind of honest and open debates that we need .
We seem to be resorting to kind of fairly cheap political rhetoric about stuff being world-class , when it clearly is n't . ''
Downing Street has insisted that Mr Johnson 's main focus remains tackling coronavirus , which has killed more than 40,000 people in the UK so far .
But there is a growing sense among Mr Johnson and his senior team that millions of job losses also present a major risk to the country and urgent plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as some lockdown measures are eased .

Boris Johnson will make a key speech on rebuilding Britain's economy in the wake of the coronavirus crisis, amid growing concern that he does not have an effective strategy for preventing a second peak of the virus.
Fear is growing among ministers that millions of jobs may be lost if pubs and restaurants are not allowed to reopen this summer and Mr Johnson is understood to have tasked his team with developing plans to get business moving as soon as possible to prevent a major economic slowdown.
But medical professionals have warned that the prime minister must not take his focus away from coping with the coronavirus as the death rate remains high and the rate of transmission has risen above 1 in some areas.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:17 How should the UK economy be structured?
In a speech within the next few weeks Mr Johnson will set out how his government will fast-track infrastructure projects in order to create jobs and rebuild the economy.
He is also understood to be looking at how to increase apprenticeships, improve the use of data across government and bolster the NHS before a potential second outbreak this winter.
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
However medical professionals have warned of a breakdown of trust and communication between the NHS and ministers in the wake of a government announcement calling on all hospital staff to wear face masks made earlier this week.
Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers, said hospital trusts had not been warned of the changes and highlighted fears about supply of masks to staff.
Speaking to the Observer newspaper, Mr Hopson said: "The real concern is that we don't have that same degree of trust, because we're not having the kind of honest and open debates that we need. We seem to be resorting to kind of fairly cheap political rhetoric about stuff being world-class, when it clearly isn't."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:20 After The Pandemic: Will working life change?
Downing Street has insisted that Mr Johnson's main focus remains tackling coronavirus, which has killed more than 40,000 people in the UK so far.
But there is a growing sense among Mr Johnson and his senior team that millions of job losses also present a major risk to the country and urgent plans are needed to try to support businesses as some lockdown measures are eased.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-07--'New normal' will be how ministers balance public health and economy

With each week that passes , the so-called `` new normal '' evolves again .
Today it 's the introduction of 14-day quarantine at the border .
Next week it 's likely to be the reopening of shops that had been deemed non-essential .
But as each change is made or mooted , the debate over whether the government is moving too quickly , or not fast enough , evolves with it .
A few weeks ago the narrative was of Boris Johnson 's apparent volte-face - the `` hawk '' prime minister who had been reluctant to impose a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in hospital to become a `` dove '' convinced both of its efficacy and on-going necessity .
Now it appears to have changed again , with the Sunday Times reporting that the prospect of 3.5 million imminent job losses in the hospitality sector has prompted the Mr Johnson to order a faster lifting of restrictions on pubs and restaurants .
Asked by Sky 's Sophy Ridge whether this account was accurate , the health secretary was insistent the government 's approach was not being buffeted by a change of priorities .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Matt Hancock responded .
`` We 've got a clear plan and we 're working through that plan ... and of course , always , always doing that with safety front of mind , cautiously progressing . ''
But if the strategy has not changed , the context certainly has .
The government 's critics have seized upon what they see as the gaps between what ministers had said would be required for measures to be relaxed , and the current reality .
Weeks ago an effective test and trace system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ app , was presented as the means by which restrictions could be eased safely .
While the test and trace system has now been formally launched and `` thousands '' of people have been contacted , no data has yet been published to demonstrate whether it is working effectively .
Neither has any evidence been set out from the Isle of Wight pilot to explain why ministers judged that the scheme was ready for a national roll-out .
Then there 's the issue of the coronavirus alert level .
In an address on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the shift from level four to three , set by the newly-formed Joint Biosecurity Centre , would be at the heart of determining when relaxations were implemented .
`` If the alert level wo n't allow it , we will simply wait and go on until we have got it right , '' Mr Johnson said .
Although ministers stress that the direction of travel is downward , for now the alert level remains at four - meaning the virus is still in general circulation and there is a high or rising level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for moving forward with the relaxations is that they have nonetheless satisfied the five tests previously set , which included ensuring the NHS would not be overwhelmed , and seeing a consistent fall in the number of deaths and new cases .
But in his interview on Sky News , Mr Hancock also acknowledged this was an example of a decision based not just on the specifics of the science , but the politics of the pandemic .
`` They advise us and we as ministers , democratically elected , make the decisions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the level is clearly moving from four to three and the reason for that is because we can see that the number of new infections is coming down . ''
That response indicates that even if the government 's strategy has n't changed , the extent to which it is conditionally dependent on the scientists ' advice clearly has .
It 's the kind of shift which makes far more plausible the idea that the two-metre social distancing rule could be reduced in future , despite advice to the contrary from the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ headline statistics continue to show the rate of daily deaths , hospital admissions and new cases lowering , ministers may well become more confident in justifying the apparent evolution in their approach .
But that also means the gradual shift from the `` new normal '' to something more akin to the old has become far more dependent on the ministerial interpretation of the balance between public health and the economy .
The distinction between the decision-makers and the advisers has always existed , but it is now more pronounced than at any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the degree of responsibility each will ultimately hold .

With each lockdown change, the debate over whether the government is moving too quickly, or not quickly enough, evolves with it.
A large queue outside the Greenwich branch of Ikea after lockdown restrictions were eased. Pic: George Cracknell Wright/LNP/Shutterstock
With each week that passes, the so-called "new normal" evolves again.
Today it's the introduction of 14-day quarantine at the border. Next week it's likely to be the reopening of shops that had been deemed non-essential.
But as each change is made or mooted, the debate over whether the government is moving too quickly, or not quickly enough, evolves with it.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:17 Boris Johnson announces an easing of restrictions
A few weeks ago the narrative was of Boris Johnson's apparent volte-face - the "hawk" prime minister who had been reluctant to impose a lockdown, transformed by his personal experience in hospital to become a "dove" convinced both of its efficacy and on-going necessity.
Now it appears to have changed again, with The Sunday Times reporting that the prospect of 3.5 million imminent job losses in the hospitality sector has prompted the Mr Johnson to order a faster lifting of restrictions on pubs and restaurants.
Asked by Sky's Sophy Ridge whether this account was accurate, the health secretary was insistent the government's approach was not being buffeted by a change of priorities.
"The plan and the strategy hasn't changed," Matt Hancock responded.
"We've got a clear plan and we're working through that plan... and of course, always, always doing that with safety front of mind, cautiously progressing."
But if the strategy has not changed, the context certainly has.
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Image: The COVID alert system being used by the government
The government's critics have seized upon what they see as the gaps between what ministers had said would be required for measures to be relaxed, and the current reality.
Weeks ago an effective test and trace system, complimented by a dedicated NHSX tracking app, was presented as the means by which restrictions could be eased safely.
While the test and trace system has now been formally launched and "thousands" of people have been contacted, no data has yet been published to demonstrate whether it is working effectively.
Neither has any evidence been set out from the Isle of Wight pilot to explain why ministers judged that the scheme was ready for a national roll-out.
Then there's the issue of the coronavirus alert level.
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 All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In an address on 10 May, the prime minister suggested the shift from level four to three, set by the newly formed Joint Biosecurity Centre, would be at the heart of determining when relaxations were implemented.
"If the alert level won't allow it, we will simply wait and go on until we have got it right," Mr Johnson said.
Although ministers stress that the direction of travel is downward, for now the alert level remains at four - meaning the virus is still in general circulation and there is a high or rising level of transmission.
The government's defence for moving forward with the relaxations is that they have nonetheless satisfied the five tests previously set, which included ensuring the NHS would not be overwhelmed, and seeing a consistent fall in the number of deaths and new cases.
But in his interview on Sky News, Mr Hancock also acknowledged this was an example of a decision based not just on the specifics of the science, but the politics of the pandemic.
"They advise us and we as ministers, democratically elected, make the decisions. That's how it works and the level is clearly moving from four to three and the reason for that is because we can see that the number of new infections is coming down."
That response indicates that even if the government's strategy hasn't changed, the extent to which it is conditionally dependent on the scientists' advice clearly has.
It's the kind of shift which makes far more plausible the idea that the two-metre social distancing rule could be reduced in future, despite advice to the contrary from the government's scientific advisers.
Indeed if the headline statistics continue to show the rate of daily deaths, hospital admissions and new cases lowering, ministers may well become more confident in justifying the apparent evolution in their approach.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:17 How should the UK economy be structured?
But that also means the gradual shift from the "new normal" to something more akin to the old has become far more dependent on the ministerial interpretation of the balance between public health and the economy.
The distinction between the decision-makers and the advisers has always existed, but it is now more pronounced than at any other point in this crisis, as is the degree of responsibility each will ultimately hold.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--'Ineffective' 14-day quarantine rules for UK arrivals come into force

Travellers arriving in the UK must self-isolate for 14 days from today under new rules being described by some airlines as `` unlawful '' and `` ineffective '' .
British Airways has begun legal proceedings after sending a pre-action letter , which is the first stage in a judicial review , to ministers on Friday .
Backed by Ryanair and EasyJet , a statement released by all three airlines said : `` These measures are disproportionate and unfair on British citizens as well as international visitors arriving in the UK .
`` We urge the UK Govt to remove this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devastating effect on UK 's tourism industry and will destroy ( even more ) thousands of jobs in this unprecedented crisis . ''
The quarantine rules mean all passengers - bar a handful of exemptions - will have to fill out an online locator form giving their contact and travel details and the address of where they will isolate .
Regulations for England include fixed penalty notices of £1,000 or prosecution for anyone who breaches the rules , with police being allowed to use `` reasonable force '' to make sure people comply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checks at the border and may refuse entry to a non-resident foreign national who refuses to comply with the regulations .
But the airlines argue the measures are more stringent than the guidelines applied to people who actually have COVID-19 , if you live in Scotland to date the rules will not apply , and it will affect people from countries with lower R rates than the UK .
Willie Walsh , the chief executive of BA 's owner IAG told Sky News on Friday : `` We do believe it is an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the letter , seen by The Sunday Times , argues the restrictions are disproportionate .
It said : `` In our view , the government has failed to identify a valid justification for the blanket nature of the regulations , especially given the extremely severe nature of the self-isolation provisions that apply . ''
Meanwhile , Heathrow boss John Holland-Kaye said the quarantine rules put a third of the airport 's 75,000 workforce at risk .
`` I do n't want to see that happen .
But we 'll have to make that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks . ''
Home Secretary Priti Patel has insisted the rule is `` backed by the science '' and is `` essential '' to save lives .
`` We know they will present difficulties for the tourism industry , but that 's why we have an unprecedented package of support , the most comprehensive in the world , for both employees and businesses , '' she said .
`` But we will all suffer if we get this wrong .
That 's why it 's crucial that we introduce these measures now .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the quarantine measures would take place in the week beginning 28 June , with the government considering `` international travel corridors '' to allow future quarantine-free travel from destinations deemed safe .
They could be in place for a year , when the legislation expires , unless the government decides to scrap it sooner .

Travellers arriving in the UK must self-isolate for 14 days from today under new rules being described by some airlines as "unlawful" and "ineffective".
British Airways has begun legal proceedings after sending a pre-action letter, which is the first stage in a judicial review, to ministers on Friday.
Backed by Ryanair and EasyJet, a statement released by all three airlines said: "These measures are disproportionate and unfair on British citizens as well as international visitors arriving in the UK.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:15 BA owner IAG: Quarantine is 'irrational legislation'
"We urge the UK govt to remove this ineffective visitor quarantine which will have a devastating effect on UK's tourism industry and will destroy (even more) thousands of jobs in this unprecedented crisis."
The quarantine rules mean all passengers - bar a handful of exemptions - will have to fill out an online locator form giving their contact and travel details and the address of where they will isolate.
Regulations for England include fixed penalty notices of £1,000 or prosecution for anyone who breaches the rules, with police being allowed to use "reasonable force" to make sure people comply.
Border Force officers will carry out checks at the border and may refuse entry to a non-resident foreign national who refuses to comply with the regulations.
But the airlines argue the measures are more stringent than the guidelines applied to people who actually have COVID-19, if you live in Scotland to date the rules will not apply, and it will affect people from countries with lower R rates than the UK.
Willie Walsh, the chief executive of BA's owner IAG told Sky News on Friday: "We do believe it is an irrational piece of legislation."
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And the letter, seen by The Sunday Times, argues the restrictions are disproportionate.
It said: "In our view, the government has failed to identify a valid justification for the blanket nature of the regulations, especially given the extremely severe nature of the self-isolation provisions that apply."
Meanwhile, Heathrow boss John Holland-Kaye said the quarantine rules put a third of the airport's 75,000 workforce at risk.
"I don't want to see that happen. But we'll have to make that decision, within the next couple of weeks."
Home Secretary Priti Patel has insisted the rule is "backed by the science" and is "essential" to save lives.
"We know they will present difficulties for the tourism industry, but that's why we have an unprecedented package of support, the most comprehensive in the world, for both employees and businesses," she said.
"But we will all suffer if we get this wrong. That's why it's crucial that we introduce these measures now."
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ms Patel confirmed the first review of the quarantine measures would take place in the week beginning 28 June, with the government considering "international travel corridors" to allow future quarantine-free travel from destinations deemed safe.
They could be in place for a year, when the legislation expires, unless the government decides to scrap it sooner.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-07--Fishing bans would see UK become 'world leader' in how we protect our seas

Fishing , dredging and other damaging activities could be completely banned from areas of England 's coastal waters following the results of an independent review commissioned by the government .
The report by former fisheries minister Richard Benyon recommends a minimum of five pilot sites are set aside as Highly Protected Marine Areas ( HPMAs ) without delay , to ensure ocean ecosystems can recover to their former pristine state .
Sky Ocean Rescue has campaigned for improved marine protection , highlighting the absurdity of gravel extraction and industrial fishing being permitted in existing conservation zones .
But under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be allowed and ships would only be able to pass through .
Mr Benyon , who praised Sky News for its campaign , said : `` This is n't just about protection , it is about recovery .
`` Our marine environment is not in a good state .
We 've got pollution , climate change and acidification .
`` This is an opportunity for the government to be a world leader in how we protect our seas . ''
Flamborough Head , Yorkshire , and part of Lundy Island in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in English waters , together accounting for less than two square miles of sea .
The new HPMAs would be considerably larger , but Mr Benyon said fishermen have nothing to fear .
`` The fishing industry can benefit from the large amount of fish and shellfish that spill out into neighbouring areas of water and can be sustainably exploited , '' he said .
`` There is a sweet spot , if we can get it right , where everybody benefits . ''
Sky News followed UN Patron of the Oceans Lewis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the English Channel in 2018 , the first person to do so .
He was met on the beach at Dover by Michael Gove , environment secretary at the time , who subsequently commissioned the review of marine protection .
Pugh said the report was a significant step forward for England 's coastal waters .
But he said there must not be further delay .
`` There is so much science on the importance of highly protected marine areas and yet the government still insists that we must have this pilot project of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England .
`` My message to the government is please stop dipping in your toes .
Dive in with enthusiasm .
These things work .
`` Our children need them , our incredible wildlife need them , our tourism industry needs it . ''
Although a `` blue belt '' of marine protected areas surround the coast , they only protect key features such as reefs or seagrass rather than the entire ecosystem .
Marine biologists have strongly criticised them as `` paper parks '' because they look good on a map , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Marine life is likely to bounce back swiftly in response to improved protection .
Conservation charity The Seahorse Trust said this spring divers had recorded the highest number of spiny seahorses in Studland Bay , Dorset , since 2008 .
It says because of the COVID-19 lockdown no boats have been allowed to anchor in the seagrass beds where they breed .
The charity wants Studland Bay to become one of the HPMA pilot sites to guarantee permanent protection .
The government has committed to meeting the UN target of protecting 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Sky 's Ocean Rescue campaign encourages people to reduce their single-use plastics .
You can find out more about the campaign and how to get involved at www.skyoceanrescue.com .

Fishing, dredging and other damaging activities could be completely banned from areas of England's coastal waters following the results of an independent review commissioned by the government.
The report by former fisheries minister Richard Benyon recommends a minimum of five pilot sites are set aside as Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) without delay, to ensure ocean ecosystems can recover to their former pristine state.
Sky Ocean Rescue has campaigned for improved marine protection, highlighting the absurdity of gravel extraction and industrial fishing being permitted in existing conservation zones.
But under the proposed HPMAs no extractive or destructive activities would be allowed and ships would only be able to pass through.
Mr Benyon, who praised Sky News for its campaign, said: "This isn't just about protection, it is about recovery.
"Our marine environment is not in a good state. We've got pollution, climate change and acidification.
"This is an opportunity for the government to be a world leader in how we protect our seas."
Flamborough Head, Yorkshire, and part of Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel are the only no-take zones in English waters, together accounting for less than two square miles of sea.
The new HPMAs would be considerably larger, but Mr Benyon said fishermen have nothing to fear.
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"The fishing industry can benefit from the large amount of fish and shellfish that spill out into neighbouring areas of water and can be sustainably exploited," he said.
"There is a sweet spot, if we can get it right, where everybody benefits."
Image: Endurance swimmer and ocean advocate Lewis Pugh
Sky News followed UN Patron of the Oceans Lewis Pugh as he swam the length of the English Channel in 2018, the first person to do so.
He was met on the beach at Dover by Michael Gove, environment secretary at the time, who subsequently commissioned the review of marine protection.
Pugh said the report was a significant step forward for England's coastal waters. But he said there must not be further delay.
"There is so much science on the importance of highly protected marine areas and yet the government still insists that we must have this pilot project of five of them in the waters around England.
"My message to the government is please stop dipping in your toes. Dive in with enthusiasm. These things work.
"Our children need them, our incredible wildlife need them, our tourism industry needs it."
Although a "blue belt" of marine protected areas surround the coast, they only protect key features such as reefs or seagrass rather than the entire ecosystem.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Marine biologists have strongly criticised them as "paper parks" because they look good on a map, but do little to protect the ocean.
Marine life is likely to bounce back swiftly in response to improved protection.
Conservation charity The Seahorse Trust said this spring divers had recorded the highest number of spiny seahorses in Studland Bay, Dorset, since 2008.
It says because of the COVID-19 lockdown no boats have been allowed to anchor in the seagrass beds where they breed.
The charity wants Studland Bay to become one of the HPMA pilot sites to guarantee permanent protection.
The government has committed to meeting the UN target of protecting 30% of its waters by 2030.
Sky's Ocean Rescue campaign encourages people to reduce their single-use plastics. You can find out more about the campaign and how to get involved at www.skyoceanrescue.com


skynewspolitics--2020-06-07--Mayors urge millions of residents to ignore easing lockdown over infection fears

Two regional leaders have urged millions of residents to ignore the government 's easing of the coronavirus lockdown and stay at home after the rate of infection was shown to be dangerously high in their areas .
The call was made by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram , Mayor of the Liverpool City Region , after a report by Public Health England and Cambridge University placed the R number - a key measure of how much COVID-19 is spreading - just above one in the North West .
A value of one or higher indicates the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the population , while a value less than one indicates it is in decline .
However , Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said the government 's scientific advisory group ( SAGE ) still believed the R number was below one in all regions .
It comes as the government moved to further relax the pandemic restrictions and kick-start the economy , which is facing a deep recession and large-scale job losses as a result of the pandemic , including allowing non-essential shops to open .
In a joint statement , Mr Burnham , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2.8 million people , and Mr Rotheram , whose region has 1.5 million , stressed the need `` not to over-react '' to the report 's findings and pointed out the number of infections and deaths in their areas were coming down .
But they did say the rise in the R number was `` a warning sign that must be taken seriously '' .
They added : `` First and foremost , we ask everyone to make a renewed commitment to follow the official guidance and to stay at home as much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we would go further and advise people to err on the side of caution and not take full advantage of all the freedoms now available .
`` Staying at home is the best way we can protect ourselves , and each other , and get the R number in the North West back below one . ''
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The pair repeated their view that the easing of the restrictions nationally was too soon for the North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consultation or forward planning '' .
They also argued that the suggested government strategy of `` local lockdown '' measures to fight any flare-up of the virus in particular areas was `` not helpful '' and a `` cause for serious concern '' .
Instead , the two mayors pressed for more detailed local information to identify at-risk areas , which could then be used to provide targeted messages and advice .
Both called for the government to revise its guidance on the reopening of schools and leave the decision to headteachers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would also be needed for people forced to self-isioate under the test and trace system , they said , and repeated their call for regions to have seats on the COBRA emergency committee , similar to the devolved administrations .

Two regional leaders have urged millions of residents to ignore the government's easing of the coronavirus lockdown and stay at home after the rate of infection was shown to be dangerously high in their areas.
The call was made by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, after a report by Public Health England and Cambridge University placed the R number - a key measure of how much COVID-19 is spreading - just above one in the North West.
Image: The rise in the R number is 'a warning sign that must be taken seriously', say the politicians
A value of one or higher indicates the coronavirus will spread at an increasing rate through the population, while a value less than one indicates it is in decline.
However, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said the government's scientific advisory group (SAGE) still believed the R number was below one in all regions.
It comes as the government moved to further relax the pandemic restrictions and kick-start the economy, which is facing a deep recession and large-scale job losses as a result of the pandemic, including allowing non-essential shops to open.
In a joint statement, Mr Burnham, who is mayor for an area of 2.8 million people, and Mr Rotheram, whose region has 1.5 million, stressed the need "not to over-react" to the report's findings and pointed out the number of infections and deaths in their areas were coming down.
But they did say the rise in the R number was "a warning sign that must be taken seriously".
They added: "First and foremost, we ask everyone to make a renewed commitment to follow the official guidance and to stay at home as much as possible.
"In fact, we would go further and advise people to err on the side of caution and not take full advantage of all the freedoms now available.
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"Staying at home is the best way we can protect ourselves, and each other, and get the R number in the North West back below one."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The pair repeated their view that the easing of the restrictions nationally was too soon for the North West and was done "without proper consultation or forward planning".
They also argued that the suggested government strategy of "local lockdown" measures to fight any flare-up of the virus in particular areas was "not helpful" and a "cause for serious concern".
Instead, the two mayors pressed for more detailed local information to identify at-risk areas, which could then be used to provide targeted messages and advice.
Both called for the government to revise its guidance on the reopening of schools and leave the decision to headteachers, in consultation with councils.
Financial support would also be needed for people forced to self-isioate under the test and trace system, they said, and repeated their call for regions to have seats on the COBRA emergency committee, similar to the devolved administrations.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--Slave trader statue was an 'affront', says Bristol mayor as he reveals what will happen to it now

The slave trader statue that was toppled in Bristol was an `` affront '' , the city 's mayor has said - but it will still `` highly likely '' end up in a museum .
Speaking on Kay Burley @ Breakfast , Marvin Rees said that `` as an elected politician I can not condone criminal damage '' .
But he added : `` I ca n't pretend , as the son of a Jamaican migrant myself , that the presence of that statue to a slave trader in the middle of the city was anything other than a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me . ''
Mr Rees continued : `` We will get the statue back and it will highly likely end up in one of our museums .
`` What 's happened to this statue is part of this city 's history and it 's part of that statue 's story . ''
The statue of Edward Colston was yanked off its plinth and later sprayed with paint and dumped in the city 's harbour during protests in support of the Black Lives Matter movement on Sunday .
The killing of George Floyd in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrations around the world , including in the UK .
While the protesters here have voiced their anger at the killing of Mr Floyd , they have also sought to highlight issues faced by black people in the UK and call for action to tackle racial injustice .
Thousands turned out across the UK for the demonstrations , despite warnings for people not to gather during the coronavirus pandemic .
Speaking in the wake of the Bristol incident and further clashes between protesters and the police in London , Prime Minister Boris Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subverted by thuggery '' that betrays their cause .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Bristol incident was `` utterly disgraceful '' and would detract from the protesters ' cause .
`` Sheer vandalism and disorder is completely unacceptable , '' she said .
Ms Patel wrote on Twitter on Monday morning : `` These demonstrations have been subverted by thuggery .
Justice will follow . ''
Policing minister Kit Malthouse told Sky News : `` The way we do things in this country is by democratic process , not by mob rule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to that statue , a crime was committed .
An investigation should be under way and I hope that prosecutions will follow .
`` We ca n't have decisions by mob . ''
Asked about these comments , Mr Rees said : `` I do n't think that 's a very helpful way to describe it .
`` I think the home secretary is showing a lack of understanding of where the country is right now .
`` I would love to hear some outrage about the 25 % of kids in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ growing inequality , the deaths in custody both here and in the United States , the militarisation of US streets , the Windrush scandal .
`` You ca n't be selective with your outrage . ''
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In London , 12 people were arrested and eight officers injured during Sunday 's protests .
The Metropolitan Police said most of these were for public order offences , while one was for criminal damage following an incident at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital .
The Bristol protests were attended by an estimated 10,000 people and there were no arrests , police said .
Avon and Somerset Police has said it is investigating after a `` small group '' committed criminal damage .
Colston made his fortune off the back of the slave trade in the 17th century and helped build schools , churches and homes for the poor in Bristol .
A petition to remove the statue - which had stood for more than 120 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - It 's not sat comfortably that such a man should be celebrated By Becky Johnson , Sky News correspondent , in Bristol The mood here is really reflective .
Quite a number of people have gathered , people have come to take photographs of the plinth where , until yesterday , the statue stood .
The vast majority of people agree with what the protesters did .
The people we 've been speaking to seem to think that this statue had no place in the centre of Bristol in the present day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this city 's history .
This street is called Colston Avenue , there 's a tower just across the road called Colston Tower , there 's a school named after him .
He spent a lot of money in Bristol on schools , churches , but that wealth came from the slave trade .
It 's not comfortably sat with many Bristolians for quite a number of years now that such a man should be celebrated .

The slave trader statue that was toppled in Bristol was an "affront", the city's mayor has said - but it will still "highly likely" end up in a museum.
Speaking on Kay Burley@Breakfast, Marvin Rees said that "as an elected politician I cannot condone criminal damage".
But he added: "I can't pretend, as the son of a Jamaican migrant myself, that the presence of that statue to a slave trader in the middle of the city was anything other than a personal affront to me and people like me."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 Bristol mayor: Slave trader statue to be retrieved from water
Mr Rees continued: "We will get the statue back and it will highly likely end up in one of our museums.
"What's happened to this statue is part of this city's history and it's part of that statue's story."
The statue of Edward Colston was yanked off its plinth and later sprayed with paint and dumped in the city's harbour during protests in support of the Black Lives Matter movement on Sunday.
On Monday, a hand-written sign was attached to the empty plinth by a member of the public, saying: "This plaque is dedicated to the slaves that were taken from their homes."
The Lord Mayor of Cardiff, meanwhile, has called for the city's statue of "sadistic" slave owner Sir Thomas Picton to be removed.
The killing of George Floyd in police custody in the US has sparked demonstrations around the world, including in the UK.
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Image: A member of the public attaches a sign to the plinth from which Edward Colston's statue was ripped down
While the protesters here have voiced their anger at the killing of Mr Floyd, they have also sought to highlight issues faced by black people in the UK and call for action to tackle racial injustice.
Thousands turned out across the UK for the demonstrations, despite warnings for people not to gather during the coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking in the wake of the Bristol incident and further clashes between protesters and the police in London, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the anti-racism protests have been "subverted by thuggery" that betrays their cause.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Bristol incident was "utterly disgraceful" and would detract from the protesters' cause.
"Sheer vandalism and disorder is completely unacceptable," she said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 Home Secretary Priti Patel: Police 'have my full backing'
Ms Patel wrote on Twitter on Monday morning: "These demonstrations have been subverted by thuggery. Justice will follow."
Policing minister Kit Malthouse told Sky News: "The way we do things in this country is by democratic process, not by mob rule.
"Undoubtedly in what was done to that statue, a crime was committed. An investigation should be under way and I hope that prosecutions will follow.
"We can't have decisions by mob."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:32 Policing minister condemns Bristol 'mob rule'
Asked about these comments, Mr Rees said: "I don't think that's a very helpful way to describe it.
"I think the home secretary is showing a lack of understanding of where the country is right now.
"I would love to hear some outrage about the 25% of kids in my city who live in poverty, the growing inequality, the deaths in custody both here and in the United States, the militarisation of US streets, the Windrush scandal.
"You can't be selective with your outrage."
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the statue should not have been removed by the protesters, but added it was wrong for it to have remained in place for so long.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He told LBC Radio: "It shouldn't be done in that way. Completely wrong to pull a statue down like that."
In London, 36 people were arrested and 35 officers injured during Sunday's protests.
The Metropolitan Police said most of these were for public order offences, while one was for criminal damage following an incident at the Cenotaph.
On Saturday, 29 people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 PM: UK protests 'subverted by thuggery'
The Bristol protests were attended by an estimated 10,000 people and there were no arrests, police said.
Avon and Somerset Police has said it is investigating after a "small group" committed criminal damage.
Colston made his fortune off the back of the slave trade in the 17th century and helped build schools, churches and homes for the poor in Bristol.
A petition to remove the statue - which had stood for more than 120 years - had received 11,000 signatures.
Analysis - It's not sat comfortably that such a man should be celebrated
By Becky Johnson, Sky News correspondent, in Bristol
The mood here is really reflective. Quite a number of people have gathered, people have come to take photographs of the plinth where, until yesterday, the statue stood.
The vast majority of people agree with what the protesters did.
The people we've been speaking to seem to think that this statue had no place in the centre of Bristol in the present day.
Edward Colston was a big part of this city's history.
This street is called Colston Avenue, there's a tower just across the road called Colston Tower, there's a school named after him.
He spent a lot of money in Bristol on schools, churches, but that wealth came from the slave trade.
It's not comfortably sat with many Bristolians for quite a number of years now that such a man should be celebrated.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--Hancock accused of 'real ignorance' over Black Lives Matter comments

A senior government minister has been accused of showing `` real ignorance '' after claiming the UK was not racist and that the recent Black Lives Matter protests were solely about events in the US .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock claimed , in an interview on Sky 's Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme , that the demonstrations seen in cities like London and Birmingham in recent days were `` based in response to events in America rather than here '' .
Asked if he thought the UK was racist , Mr Hancock replied : `` I do n't , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that needs to be tackled , and I think that we are one of the most tolerant and open societies in the world .
`` But I think there is always more that can and must be done , especially to empower people to achieve their potential . ''
Shadow justice secretary David Lammy hit out at the health secretary 's remarks , saying : `` Racism and prejudice exist in the United Kingdom as well as the United States .
`` To suggest there is only a problem on the other side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel better , but it shows real ignorance . ''
Fellow Labour MP Dawn Butler , a member of the party 's frontbench under previous leader Jeremy Corbyn , told The Guardian : `` People are angry in the UK for many reasons .
`` We know there 's systemic racism in the UK .
`` COVID has highlighted the grave consequences of discrimination and poverty .
`` People are angry in this country because the Windrush scandal and Grenfell … highlighted the structural racism in our country .
`` So to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again not listening and shows no commitment to resolving the issues of racism in our own country . ''
Thousands of people turned out around the UK for a series of protests over the weekend in support of the Black Lives Matter movement .
The killing of George Floyd in police custody in the US has sparked demonstrations around the world .
While the protesters here have voiced their anger at the killing of Mr Floyd , they have also sought to highlight issues faced by black people in the UK and call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In Bristol , a statue of slave trader Edward Colston was toppled and thrown into the water .
The protest there was attended by an estimated 10,000 people and there were no arrests , police said .
In London , 12 people were arrested and eight officers injured during Sunday 's protests .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The Metropolitan Police said most of these were for public order offences , while one was for criminal damage following an incident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 29 people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital .
Speaking in the wake of the Bristol incident and further clashes between protesters and the police in London , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the anti-racism protests have been `` subverted by thuggery '' that betrays their cause .

A senior government minister has been accused of showing "real ignorance" after claiming the UK was not racist and that the recent Black Lives Matter protests were solely about events in the US.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock claimed, in an interview on Sky's Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme, that the demonstrations seen in cities like London and Birmingham in recent days were "based in response to events in America rather than here".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 PM: UK protests 'subverted by thuggery'
Asked if he thought the UK was racist, Mr Hancock replied: "I don't, but I do think that there is injustice that needs to be tackled, and I think that we are one of the most tolerant and open societies in the world.
"But I think there is always more that can and must be done, especially to empower people to achieve their potential."
Image: Shadow justice secretary David Lammy said the comments showed 'real ignorance'
Shadow justice secretary David Lammy hit out at the health secretary's remarks, saying: "Racism and prejudice exist in the United Kingdom as well as the United States.
"To suggest there is only a problem on the other side of the Atlantic might make Matt Hancock feel better, but it shows real ignorance."
Fellow Labour MP Dawn Butler, a member of the party's frontbench under previous leader Jeremy Corbyn, told The Guardian: "People are angry in the UK for many reasons.
"We know there's systemic racism in the UK.
Image: Former Labour frontbencher Dawn Butler said the government was 'not listening'
"COVID has highlighted the grave consequences of discrimination and poverty.
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"People are angry in this country because the Windrush scandal and Grenfell … highlighted the structural racism in our country.
"So to say that it's an imported problem is again not listening and shows no commitment to resolving the issues of racism in our own country."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:49 Protesters and police clash again in London
Thousands of people turned out around the UK for a series of protests over the weekend in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
The killing of George Floyd in police custody in the US has sparked demonstrations around the world.
While the protesters here have voiced their anger at the killing of Mr Floyd, they have also sought to highlight issues faced by black people in the UK and call for action to tackle racial injustice.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:53 Protesters topple slave trader statue
In Bristol, a statue of slave trader Edward Colston was toppled and thrown into the water.
The protest there was attended by an estimated 10,000 people and there were no arrests, police said.
In London, 12 people were arrested and eight officers injured during Sunday's protests.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The Metropolitan Police said most of these were for public order offences, while one was for criminal damage following an incident at the Cenotaph.
On Saturday, 29 people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital.
Speaking in the wake of the Bristol incident and further clashes between protesters and the police in London, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the anti-racism protests have been "subverted by thuggery" that betrays their cause.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-07--Are political decisions about coronavirus starting to outweigh scientific ones?

A large queue outside the Greenwich branch of Ikea after lockdown restrictions were eased .
Pic : George Cracknell Wright/LNP/Shutterstock With each week that passes , the so-called `` new normal '' evolves again .
Today it 's the introduction of 14-day quarantine at the border .
Next week it 's likely to be the reopening of shops that had been deemed non-essential .
But as each change is made or mooted , the debate over whether the government is moving too quickly , or not quickly enough , evolves with it .
A few weeks ago the narrative was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the `` hawk '' prime minister who had been reluctant to impose a lockdown , transformed by his personal experience in hospital to become a `` dove '' convinced both of its efficacy and on-going necessity .
Now it appears to have changed again , with The Sunday Times reporting that the prospect of 3.5 million imminent job losses in the hospitality sector has prompted the Mr Johnson to order a faster lifting of restrictions on pubs and restaurants .
Asked by Sky 's Sophy Ridge whether this account was accurate , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach was not being buffeted by a change of priorities .
`` The plan and the strategy has n't changed , '' Matt Hancock responded .
`` We 've got a clear plan and we 're working through that plan ... and of course , always , always doing that with safety front of mind , cautiously progressing . ''
But if the strategy has not changed , the context certainly has .
The government 's critics have seized upon what they see as the gaps between what ministers had said would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the current reality .
Weeks ago an effective test and trace system , complimented by a dedicated NHSX tracking app , was presented as the means by which restrictions could be eased safely .
While the test and trace system has now been formally launched and `` thousands '' of people have been contacted , no data has yet been published to demonstrate whether it is working effectively .
Neither has any evidence been set out from the Isle of Wight pilot to explain why ministers judged that the scheme was ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's the issue of the coronavirus alert level .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In an address on 10 May , the prime minister suggested the shift from level four to three , set by the newly formed Joint Biosecurity Centre , would be at the heart of determining when relaxations were implemented .
`` If the alert level wo n't allow it , we will simply wait and go on until we have got it right , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the direction of travel is downward , for now the alert level remains at four - meaning the virus is still in general circulation and there is a high or rising level of transmission .
The government 's defence for moving forward with the relaxations is that they have nonetheless satisfied the five tests previously set , which included ensuring the NHS would not be overwhelmed , and seeing a consistent fall in the number of deaths and new cases .
But in his interview on Sky News , Mr Hancock also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision based not just on the specifics of the science , but the politics of the pandemic .
`` They advise us and we as ministers , democratically elected , make the decisions .
That 's how it works and the level is clearly moving from four to three and the reason for that is because we can see that the number of new infections is coming down . ''
That response indicates that even if the government 's strategy has n't changed , the extent to which it is conditionally dependent on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's the kind of shift which makes far more plausible the idea that the two-metre social distancing rule could be reduced in future , despite advice to the contrary from the government 's scientific advisers .
Indeed if the headline statistics continue to show the rate of daily deaths , hospital admissions and new cases lowering , ministers may well become more confident in justifying the apparent evolution in their approach .
But that also means the gradual shift from the `` new normal '' to something more akin to the old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministerial interpretation of the balance between public health and the economy .
The distinction between the decision-makers and the advisers has always existed , but it is now more pronounced than at any other point in this crisis , as is the degree of responsibility each will ultimately hold .


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--'Unlawful' and 'ineffective': 14-day quarantine rules for UK arrivals come into force

Travellers arriving in the UK must self-isolate for 14 days from today under new rules being described by some airlines as `` unlawful '' and `` ineffective '' .
British Airways has begun legal proceedings after sending a pre-action letter , which is the first stage in a judicial review , to ministers on Friday .
Backed by Ryanair and EasyJet , a statement released by all three airlines said : `` These measures are disproportionate and unfair on British citizens as well as international visitors arriving in the UK .
`` We urge the UK govt to remove this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devastating effect on UK 's tourism industry and will destroy ( even more ) thousands of jobs in this unprecedented crisis . ''
The quarantine rules mean all passengers - bar a handful of exemptions - will have to fill out an online locator form giving their contact and travel details and the address of where they will isolate .
Regulations for England include fixed penalty notices of £1,000 or prosecution for anyone who breaches the rules , with police being allowed to use `` reasonable force '' to make sure people comply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checks at the border and may refuse entry to a non-resident foreign national who refuses to comply with the regulations .
But the airlines argue the measures are more stringent than the guidelines applied to people who actually have COVID-19 , if you live in Scotland to date the rules will not apply , and it will affect people from countries with lower R rates than the UK .
Willie Walsh , the chief executive of BA 's owner IAG told Sky News on Friday : `` We do believe it is an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the letter , seen by The Sunday Times , argues the restrictions are disproportionate .
It said : `` In our view , the government has failed to identify a valid justification for the blanket nature of the regulations , especially given the extremely severe nature of the self-isolation provisions that apply . ''
Meanwhile , Heathrow boss John Holland-Kaye said the quarantine rules put a third of the airport 's 75,000 workforce at risk .
`` I do n't want to see that happen .
But we 'll have to make that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks . ''
Home Secretary Priti Patel has insisted the rule is `` backed by the science '' and is `` essential '' to save lives .
`` We know they will present difficulties for the tourism industry , but that 's why we have an unprecedented package of support , the most comprehensive in the world , for both employees and businesses , '' she said .
`` But we will all suffer if we get this wrong .
That 's why it 's crucial that we introduce these measures now .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ms Patel confirmed the first review of the quarantine measures would take place in the week beginning 28 June , with the government considering `` international travel corridors '' to allow future quarantine-free travel from destinations deemed safe .
They could be in place for a year , when the legislation expires , unless the government decides to scrap it sooner .


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--Feelings of discrimination 'founded on a cold reality in too many cases', says PM

Boris Johnson has admitted feelings that black and ethnic minority groups face discrimination are often `` founded on a cold reality '' .
The prime minister posted a video message on his Twitter account on Monday night following a weekend of demonstrations across the UK sparked by the killing of George Floyd in America .
Mr Johnson admitted there was `` much more to do '' in eradicating prejudice in the UK .
He said that Mr Floyd 's dying words of `` I ca n't breathe '' had `` awakened an anger and a widespread and incontrovertible , undeniable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people from black and minority ethnic groups do face discrimination : in education , in employment , in the application of the criminal law '' .
`` We who lead and who govern simply ca n't ignore those feelings because in too many cases , I am afraid , they will be founded on a cold reality , '' the prime minister added .
But the prime minister said he would not support those who `` flout the rules on social distancing '' during Black Lives Matter demonstrations , amid the continuing coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those who break the law , or attack the police , or desecrate public monuments '' , he added , as he vowed perpertrators would `` face the full force of the law '' .
At the weekend , almost 50 police officers were injured in London following clashes with demonstrators .
A statue of Winston Churchill outside parliament was daubed with graffiti branding Britain 's wartime leader a `` racist '' , while in Bristol , the statue of a slave trader was toppled and then thrown into the city 's harbour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` We have a democracy in this country .
`` If you want to change the urban landscape , you can stand for election , or vote for someone who will .
`` And so I must say clearly that those who attack public property or the police - who injure the police officers who are trying to keep us all safe - those people will face the full force of the law ; not just because of the hurt and damage they are causing , but because of the damage they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to represent .
`` They are hijacking a peaceful protest and undermining it in the eyes of many who might otherwise be sympathetic . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier on Monday , Downing Street said Mr Johnson does not think Britain is a racist country .
`` The prime minister does n't doubt that there continues to be discrimination and racism but does not agree that this is a racist country , '' the prime minister 's official spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant progress on this issue but there remains more to do and we will not be complacent in our efforts to stamp out racism and discrimination where it happens . ''
Downing Street also said the removal of the statue of Edward Colston in Bristol was a `` criminal act '' .
But Mr Johnson 's spokesman did not answer directly when asked if it was right that there were still statues of figures involved in the slave trade in public spaces .
`` The prime minister 's view is that in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there is a democratic process which should be followed , '' he said .
`` People can campaign for the removal of a statue but what happened yesterday was a criminal act and when the criminal law is broken that is unacceptable and the police will want to hold to account those responsible . ''
The spokesman added : `` The PM absolutely understands the strength of feeling , but in this country we settle our differences democratically and if people wanted the removal of the statue there are democratic routes which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sir Keir Starmer said the Colston statue should not have been removed by the protesters , but added it was wrong for it to have remained in place for so long .
He told LBC Radio : `` It should n't be done in that way .
Completely wrong to pull a statue down like that . ''
The Metropolitan Police said 36 people were arrested in London on Sunday for offences including violent disorder , criminal damage and assaulting police .
They added that 35 officers reported suffering injuries , with two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head wound , while other sustained a shoulder injury after being hit by a thrown bottle .
On Saturday , 29 people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital .
Speaking in the Commons , Home Secretary Priti Patel said ministers `` strongly support the right to protest peacefully '' .
`` But that does not extend to the violent behaviour that we have witnessed across the country throughout the weekend , '' she told MPs .
Ms Patel also revealed that the government will look at doubling the minimum sentence @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson has admitted feelings that black and ethnic minority groups face discrimination are often "founded on a cold reality".
The prime minister posted a video message on his Twitter account on Monday night following a weekend of demonstrations across the UK sparked by the killing of George Floyd in America.
Mr Johnson admitted there was "much more to do" in eradicating prejudice in the UK.
Image: Protesters clashed with police in London
He said that Mr Floyd's dying words of "I can't breathe" had "awakened an anger and a widespread and incontrovertible, undeniable feeling of injustice, a feeling that people from black and minority ethnic groups do face discrimination: in education, in employment, in the application of the criminal law".
"We who lead and who govern simply can't ignore those feelings because in too many cases, I am afraid, they will be founded on a cold reality," the prime minister added.
But the prime minister said he would not support those who "flout the rules on social distancing" during Black Lives Matter demonstrations, amid the continuing coronavirus pandemic.
Nor would he "indulge those who break the law, or attack the police, or desecrate public monuments", he added, as he vowed perpertrators would "face the full force of the law".
At the weekend, almost 50 police officers were injured in London following clashes with demonstrators.
A statue of Winston Churchill outside parliament was daubed with graffiti branding Britain's wartime leader a "racist", while in Bristol, the statue of a slave trader was toppled and then thrown into the city's harbour by a crowd.
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Mr Johnson said: "We have a democracy in this country.
"If you want to change the urban landscape, you can stand for election, or vote for someone who will.
"And so I must say clearly that those who attack public property or the police - who injure the police officers who are trying to keep us all safe - those people will face the full force of the law; not just because of the hurt and damage they are causing, but because of the damage they are doing to the cause they claim to represent.
"They are hijacking a peaceful protest and undermining it in the eyes of many who might otherwise be sympathetic."
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:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Earlier on Monday, Downing Street said Mr Johnson does not think Britain is a racist country.
"The prime minister doesn't doubt that there continues to be discrimination and racism but does not agree that this is a racist country," the prime minister's official spokesman said.
"We have made very significant progress on this issue but there remains more to do and we will not be complacent in our efforts to stamp out racism and discrimination where it happens."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:32 Policing minister condemns Bristol 'mob rule'
Downing Street also said the removal of the statue of Edward Colston in Bristol was a "criminal act".
But Mr Johnson's spokesman did not answer directly when asked if it was right that there were still statues of figures involved in the slave trade in public spaces.
"The prime minister's view is that in this country, where there is strong opinion, there is a democratic process which should be followed," he said.
"People can campaign for the removal of a statue but what happened yesterday was a criminal act and when the criminal law is broken that is unacceptable and the police will want to hold to account those responsible."
The spokesman added: "The PM absolutely understands the strength of feeling, but in this country we settle our differences democratically and if people wanted the removal of the statue there are democratic routes which can be followed."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:53 Protesters topple slave trader statue
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the Colston statue should not have been removed by the protesters, but added it was wrong for it to have remained in place for so long.
He told LBC Radio: "It shouldn't be done in that way. Completely wrong to pull a statue down like that."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:31 'Churchill was a racist' written on statue
The Metropolitan Police said 36 people were arrested in London on Sunday for offences including violent disorder, criminal damage and assaulting police.
They added that 35 officers reported suffering injuries, with two needing hospital treatment.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 PM: UK protests 'subverted by thuggery'
One suffered a head wound, while another sustained a shoulder injury after being hit by a thrown bottle.
On Saturday, 29 people were arrested and 14 officers injured in the capital.
Speaking in the Commons, Home Secretary Priti Patel said ministers "strongly support the right to protest peacefully".
"But that does not extend to the violent behaviour that we have witnessed across the country throughout the weekend," she told MPs.
Ms Patel also revealed that the government will look at doubling the minimum sentence for individuals who assault emergency workers.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-08--Home secretary recalls childhood racial slurs as she condemns 'hooliganism' at protests

Home Secretary Priti Patel has rejected claims the government does n't understand racial inequality as she recounted being called a `` P**i '' as a child in the playground .
Following a weekend of protests across the UK as part of the Black Lives Matter campaign , Ms Patel condemned a `` lawless minority '' who `` regrettably turned to violence '' during the demonstrations .
She denounced the `` hooliganism '' towards `` courageous '' police officers in central London .
In a statement to the House of Commons , the home secretary revealed 200 protests took place across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in attendance and 135 arrests as of Monday morning .
She urged the public not to attend future protests amid the continuing coronavirus pandemic and claimed it was `` not for mobs '' to tear down statues , following the toppling of a monument to a slave trader in Bristol .
Ms Patel also told the Commons of her personal experiences of racism in the UK , warning that she would `` not take lectures '' from opposition MPs over the issue .
The home secretary made the remarks in response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Patel whether she does `` actually understand the anger and frustration felt by so many people '' in the UK .
`` Does the home secretary recognise that there is structural inequality , discrimination and racism in our country ?
, '' Ms Eshalomi said .
She added : `` Black lives matter and we need to see this government doing something about that . ''
Ms Patel said the Labour MP had `` effectively said that this government does n't understand racial inequality '' .
She added : `` Well , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a very different home secretary who as a child was frequently called a P**i in the playground .
`` A very different home secretary who was racially abused in the streets or even advised to drop her surname and use her husband 's in order to advance her career .
`` A different home secretary recently characterised in The Guardian newspaper as a fat cow with a ring through its nose - something that was not only racist but offensive , both culturally and religiously . ''
Ms Patel continued : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , equality , tolerance or fairness .
`` So , when it comes to racism , sexism , tolerance for social justice , I will not take lectures from the other side of the House .
`` I have already said repeatedly there is no place for racism in our country or in society .
`` And , sadly , too many people are too willing , too casual , to dismiss the contributions of those who do n't necessarily conform to preconceived views or ideologies about how ethnic minorities should behave or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ view , is racist in itself . ''
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Chancellor Rishi Sunak joined Ms Patel in condemning the violence seen at demonstrations , prompted by the killing of George Floyd in America , over the weekend .
`` As a British Asian of course I know that racism exists in this country , '' he said in a statement .
Mr Sunak added : `` To the small minority who committed acts of violence and vandalism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions criminal , but they also perpetuate a dangerous lie : that the temporary excitement of destruction is the same thing as change .
`` You are , and always will be , wrong .
`` But to the last majority who seek only peaceful protest within the law and a better future for themselves and their children : whilst our progress feels slow , I promise you it is permanent . ''
Labour 's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said some of the actions of a minority of protesters were `` unacceptable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We can not allow this moment of global demand for justice to pass without action and we on these benches will be at the forefront of calls for change . ''

Home Secretary Priti Patel has rejected claims the government doesn't understand racial inequality as she recounted being called a "P**i" as a child in the playground.
Following a weekend of protests across the UK as part of the Black Lives Matter campaign, Ms Patel condemned a "lawless minority" who "regrettably turned to violence" during the demonstrations.
She denounced the "hooliganism" towards "courageous" police officers in central London.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:48 Police run from crowds in London protest
In a statement to the House of Commons, the home secretary revealed 200 protests took place across the country, with more than 137,500 people in attendance and 135 arrests as of Monday morning.
She urged the public not to attend future protests amid the continuing coronavirus pandemic and claimed it was "not for mobs" to tear down statues, following the toppling of a monument to a slave trader in Bristol.
Ms Patel also told the Commons of her personal experiences of racism in the UK, warning that she would "not take lectures" from opposition MPs over the issue.
The home secretary made the remarks in response to Labour's Florence Eshalomi, who asked Ms Patel whether she does "actually understand the anger and frustration felt by so many people" in the UK.
"Does the home secretary recognise that there is structural inequality, discrimination and racism in our country?," Ms Eshalomi said.
She added: "Black lives matter and we need to see this government doing something about that."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 Cheers as protesters pull down slave trader statue
Ms Patel said the Labour MP had "effectively said that this government doesn't understand racial inequality".
She added: "Well, on that basis, it must have been a very different home secretary who as a child was frequently called a P**i in the playground.
"A very different home secretary who was racially abused in the streets or even advised to drop her surname and use her husband's in order to advance her career.
"A different home secretary recently characterised in The Guardian newspaper as a fat cow with a ring through its nose - something that was not only racist but offensive, both culturally and religiously."
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Ms Patel continued: "This is hardly an example of respect, equality, tolerance or fairness.
"So, when it comes to racism, sexism, tolerance for social justice, I will not take lectures from the other side of the House.
"I have already said repeatedly there is no place for racism in our country or in society.
"And, sadly, too many people are too willing, too casual, to dismiss the contributions of those who don't necessarily conform to preconceived views or ideologies about how ethnic minorities should behave or think.
"This, in my view, is racist in itself."
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Chancellor Rishi Sunak joined Ms Patel in condemning the violence seen at demonstrations, prompted by the killing of George Floyd in America, over the weekend.
"As a British Asian of course I know that racism exists in this country," he said in a statement.
Mr Sunak added: "To the small minority who committed acts of violence and vandalism last weekend, not only were your actions criminal, but they also perpetuate a dangerous lie: that the temporary excitement of destruction is the same thing as change.
"You are, and always will be, wrong.
"But to the last majority who seek only peaceful protest within the law and a better future for themselves and their children: whilst our progress feels slow, I promise you it is permanent."
Image: Police clashed with protesters at King Charles Street archway in central London
Labour's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said some of the actions of a minority of protesters were "unacceptable".
But he added: "We cannot allow this moment of global demand for justice to pass without action and we on these benches will be at the forefront of calls for change."