skynewspolitics--2020-09-01--Greece added to Scotland's quarantine list over coronavirus fears

Travellers arriving in Scotland from Greece will have to quarantine for two weeks following a `` significant '' spike in coronavirus cases .
The change will come into force at 4am on Thursday due to apparent new evidence that COVID-19 is being imported .
In Wales , people coming back from Zante are being asked to self-isolate for two weeks , after seven infections were discovered on a flight from the popular Greek island that landed in Cardiff on 25 August .
The request is not mandatory , but the Welsh health minister wants a meeting with political leaders in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ add Greece to all their separate quarantine lists .
Meanwhile prices of flights from Portugal to the UK have soared as the country is expected be next on the quarantine list .
Holidaymakers are already scrambling to get home , with British Airways charging up to £554 for a seat on Thursday compared to just £139 the same day the following week .
Decisions about adding countries to or removing them from the so-called list of `` travel corridors '' are usually taken every Thursday , with those where cases are higher than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In Greece , the figure is 13.7 per 100,000 , according to the latest figures from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control .
But Scotland 's chief medical officer , Dr Gregor Smith , said there had been a notable number of `` imported cases linked to the Greek islands '' .
He added that `` the flow of travel '' and `` behaviour we have seen from some of those travellers '' meant Greece needed to be added to the quarantine list `` on public health grounds '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ out a `` passenger locator form '' so authorities can check they are isolating faces an initial £60 fine that can be raised to £480 for further offences .
A series of European destinations have already been by sudden quarantine announcements this summer , such as Spain , France and Croatia .
Ministers say they need to act quickly so the measures are effective .
But sun-seekers complain that with little notice , they struggle to get home in time if they can not self-isolate for two weeks due to being unable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fears their children will miss out on more school .
It comes as some coronavirus lockdown restrictions were tightened in and around Glasgow .

Travellers arriving in Scotland from Greece will have to quarantine for two weeks following a "significant" spike in coronavirus cases.
The change will come into force at 4am on Thursday due to apparent new evidence that COVID-19 is being imported.
In Wales, people coming back from Zante are being asked to self-isolate for two weeks, after seven infections were discovered on a flight from the popular Greek island that landed in Cardiff on 25 August.
Image: Travellers arriving in Scotland will have to quarantine from 4am on Thursday
The request is not mandatory, but the Welsh health minister wants a meeting with political leaders in the other UK nations to agree to add Greece to all their separate quarantine lists.
Meanwhile prices of flights from Portugal to the UK have soared as the country is expected be next on the quarantine list.
Holidaymakers are already scrambling to get home, with British Airways charging up to £554 for a seat on Thursday compared to just £139 the same day the following week.
Decisions about adding countries to or removing them from the so-called list of "travel corridors" are usually taken every Thursday, with those where cases are higher than 20 per 100,000 people at particular risk.
In Greece, the figure is 13.7 per 100,000, according to the latest figures from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
But Scotland's chief medical officer, Dr Gregor Smith, said there had been a notable number of "imported cases linked to the Greek islands".
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Image: Wales is asking people coming from Zante to self-isolate for two weeks
He added that "the flow of travel" and "behaviour we have seen from some of those travellers" meant Greece needed to be added to the quarantine list "on public health grounds".
Anyone who flouts the requirement to fill out a "passenger locator form" so authorities can check they are isolating faces an initial £60 fine that can be raised to £480 for further offences.
A series of European destinations have already been impacted by sudden quarantine announcements this summer, such as Spain, France and Croatia.
Ministers say they need to act quickly so the measures are effective.
But sun-seekers complain that with little notice, they struggle to get home in time if they cannot self-isolate for two weeks due to being unable to afford to take time off work or fears their children will miss out on more school.
It comes as some coronavirus lockdown restrictions were tightened in and around Glasgow.
Are you affected by the quarantine change? Get in touch with Sky News
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skynewspolitics--2020-09-01--'Heartless' Johnson refuses to meet families of COVID-19 victims

Boris Johnson has been branded `` heartless '' by families of coronavirus victims after failing to honour a pledge to meet them .
He has been accused of a U-turn less than a week after he said `` of course '' he would meet representatives of relatives of COVID-19 victims .
Mr Johnson has dismayed campaigners by telling them in a letter it is `` regrettably not possible '' and he is unable to meet them .
Last week , during a school visit , the prime minister was asked about requests for a meeting from the COVID-19 Bereaved Families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not aware of those letters , '' he replied .
`` But of course we will write back to every letter we get .
And of course I will meet the bereaved who have suffered from COVID .
Of course I will do that . ''
Six days later , the group , which represents more than 1,600 people who have lost a relative to coronavirus and is demanding an independent inquiry , says it has now received a reply to its fifth letter requesting a meeting .
In the letter , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acutely conscious that a letter will be of little comfort against the grief and heartbreak that families have suffered .
`` However , I wanted to offer my sincere condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones to this terrible disease .
`` I know from my own experience how debilitating its effects are and can only imagine the pain and despair of those families that have been bereaved .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' As I work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I will of course meet members of the public and key workers who have been bereaved as a result of COVID-19 .
Each story of loss motivates me to ensure that we beat this virus together . ''
But in a blow to the campaigners ' hopes , he wrote : `` As much as I would wish to be able to offer my condolences in person to all those who have suffered loss , that is regrettably not possible and so I am unable to meet with you and members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson added : `` As for the issue of an independent inquiry , the government has always been clear that there will be opportunities to look back , analyse and reflect on all aspects of COVID-19 .
As I have made clear previously , this will include an independent inquiry at the appropriate time . ''
Reacting furiously to the prime minister 's letter , the co-founder of COVID-19 Bereaved Families for Justice , Jo Goodman , who lost her father Stuart to the virus , told Sky News : `` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' She said : `` The prime minister has done a 360 : dodging five letters , then agreeing on live TV to meet with us , and now quietly telling us he 's too busy .
It 's heartless .
`` Of course we know the prime minister ca n't meet every bereaved person : but we really feel he should be meeting one of the largest groups of bereaved families in the country , representing over 1,600 people who 've lost a loved one .
`` It feels like we 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like the prime minister only wants to meet with people who will smile and not ask difficult questions . ''
The group says it is calling for an independent , judge-led , statutory public inquiry with an urgent first phase which reports back in weeks , in order to learn critical lessons which can save lives as the pandemic continues .
`` We think it 's critical the PM hears the experiences of families bereaved by COVID-19 , many of whom can shed light on serious systemic and policy failings that contributed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from deaths in care homes to inadequate protective equipment , '' said Ms Goodman .
`` We need an immediate public inquiry with a quick-reporting first phase in order to learn lessons and save lives as the crisis continues .
`` After the Hillsborough Disaster , the Taylor Review reported back in just 11 weeks : allowing changes to be rolled out in other football stadiums to protect the public .
`` If the prime minister had replied to our first letter back in June , a rapid review could be reporting right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to save lives as the virus spikes again , as we 're seeing in locations in Europe and across the country . ''

Boris Johnson has been branded "heartless" by families of coronavirus victims after failing to honour a pledge to meet them.
He has been accused of a U-turn less than a week after he said "of course" he would meet representatives of relatives of COVID-19 victims.
Mr Johnson has dismayed campaigners by telling them in a letter it is "regrettably not possible" and he is unable to meet them.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:46 PM's cabinet criticised as Parliament resumes
Last week, during a school visit, the prime minister was asked about requests for a meeting from the COVID-19 Bereaved Families for Justice group.
"I am not aware of those letters," he replied. "But of course we will write back to every letter we get. And of course I will meet the bereaved who have suffered from COVID. Of course I will do that."
Six days later, the group, which represents more than 1,600 people who have lost a relative to coronavirus and is demanding an independent inquiry, says it has now received a reply to its fifth letter requesting a meeting.
In the letter, the prime minister wrote: "I am acutely conscious that a letter will be of little comfort against the grief and heartbreak that families have suffered.
"However, I wanted to offer my sincere condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones to this terrible disease.
"I know from my own experience how debilitating its effects are and can only imagine the pain and despair of those families that have been bereaved.
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"As I work to manage the response to the pandemic, I will of course meet members of the public and key workers who have been bereaved as a result of COVID-19. Each story of loss motivates me to ensure that we beat this virus together."
But in a blow to the campaigners' hopes, he wrote: "As much as I would wish to be able to offer my condolences in person to all those who have suffered loss, that is regrettably not possible and so I am unable to meet with you and members of Bereaved Families for Justice."
Mr Johnson added: "As for the issue of an independent inquiry, the government has always been clear that there will be opportunities to look back, analyse and reflect on all aspects of COVID-19. As I have made clear previously, this will include an independent inquiry at the appropriate time."
Reacting furiously to the prime minister's letter, the co-founder of COVID-19 Bereaved Families for Justice, Jo Goodman, who lost her father Stuart to the virus, told Sky News: "It's a U-turn followed by a U-turn."
She said: "The prime minister has done a 360: dodging five letters, then agreeing on live TV to meet with us, and now quietly telling us he's too busy. It's heartless.
"Of course we know the prime minister can't meet every bereaved person: but we really feel he should be meeting one of the largest groups of bereaved families in the country, representing over 1,600 people who've lost a loved one.
"It feels like we're the wrong type of bereaved people: like the prime minister only wants to meet with people who will smile and not ask difficult questions."
The group says it is calling for an independent, judge-led, statutory public inquiry with an urgent first phase which reports back in weeks, in order to learn critical lessons which can save lives as the pandemic continues.
"We think it's critical the PM hears the experiences of families bereaved by COVID-19, many of whom can shed light on serious systemic and policy failings that contributed to the death of their loved ones: from deaths in care homes to inadequate protective equipment," said Ms Goodman.
"We need an immediate public inquiry with a quick-reporting first phase in order to learn lessons and save lives as the crisis continues.
"After the Hillsborough Disaster, the Taylor Review reported back in just 11 weeks: allowing changes to be rolled out in other football stadiums to protect the public.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:26 Labour calls for coronavirus 'mass testing'
"If the prime minister had replied to our first letter back in June, a rapid review could be reporting right now: giving crucial lessons on how to save lives as the virus spikes again, as we're seeing in locations in Europe and across the country."
Labour's shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves said: "41,504 people have tragically lost their lives to this virus. The very least the prime minister could do is respond truthfully to their families, and have the heart to meet some of them and their representatives.
"The prime minister has been going back on his word all summer - but to not even meet with grieving families hits a new low."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-01--Government denies raid on foreign aid budget to help plug coronavirus black hole

The UK has reiterated a pledge to spend 0.7 per cent of national income on overseas aid even as suspicion mounts that the government seeks to divert money away from the world 's poorest .
A new government department repeated the spending commitment as it opened on Wednesday with the merger of the long-standing Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) and the relatively-newer Department for International Development ( DFID ) .
`` The UK has committed to spending 0.7 per cent of our national income on aid , and the formation of the [ Foreign , Commonwealth and Development @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our diplomatic influence and development expertise are combined to the best effect on the global stage , '' it said .
But critics doubt this will be the reality , instead seeing the move as a diminution of the UK 's ability to use soft power to help those in crisis .
Adding to these concerns , the chancellor was reported on Monday to be eyeing a chunk of the £15 billion spent annually on foreign development to help plug a black hole in UK coffers caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
Tobias @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the foreign office and in the Ministry of Defence , said anyone contemplating a raid on the UK 's development budget does not understand the power and influence that expenditure buys .
`` This is really , really short sighted , '' he said .
`` Well targeted aid can strengthen relations '' with other countries , which could help to generate future trade deals , Mr Ellwood , the Conservative chair of the defence select committee , said .
`` That then helps the Treasury - you 're making the cake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Andrew Mitchell , a former international development secretary , said he believes the government 's real intention is to change the definition of what constitutes overseas development assistance .
Such a move could see money diverted from the world 's most needy to more security-focused tasks such as purchasing military equipment .
`` It wo n't be spending on development anymore and that would be a big mistake , '' Mr Mitchell said .
The UK 's development budget is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the impact of coronavirus on the economy , with funding on programmes shrinking by £2.9 billion this financial year .
The new Foreign , Commonwealth and Development Office is seen by many DFID staffers as an FCO take-over rather than a merger of equals .
A Whitehall source said there have been mutterings about how the overall service will still be called the `` diplomatic service '' rather than the `` diplomatic and development service '' .
There is also resentment that the title of the Cabinet minister in charge - Dominic Raab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be stretched to include a mention of development .
`` Let 's face it - no one is going to say [ 'Foreign , Commonwealth and Development Secretary ' ] .
It would take half an hour , '' the source said .
In its first act , the new ministry announced a £119 million aid package to help combat the double threat of coronavirus and famines in Yemen , Democratic Republic of Congo , Somalia , Central African Republic , the Sahel , South Sudan and Sudan .
Nick Dyer , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was also named as the UK 's first `` Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs '' .
Mr Raab said : `` Coronavirus and famine threaten millions in some of the world 's poorest countries , and give rise to direct problems that affect the UK , including terrorism and migration flows .
`` Global Britain , as a force for good in the world , is leading by example and bringing the international community together to tackle these deadly threats , because it 's the right thing to do and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can only tackle these global challenges by combining our diplomatic strength with our world-leading aid expertise . ''
Boris Johnson drew widespread criticism - including from three former prime ministers - when he announced the plan to merge the FCO and DFID back in June .
The prime minister said at the time : `` For too long frankly UK overseas aid has been treated as some giant cash point in the sky that arrives without any reference to UK interest . ''
A sweeping , Whitehall review of foreign affairs , defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - is expected to set out the new department 's priorities when it is published in November .
Diplomats have privately expressed surprised that the merger was announced ahead of the conclusion of the review rather than as a result of it .

The UK has reiterated a pledge to spend 0.7 per cent of national income on overseas aid even as suspicion mounts that the government seeks to divert money away from the world's poorest.
A new government department repeated the spending commitment as it opened on Wednesday with the merger of the long-standing Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the relatively-newer Department for International Development (DFID).
"The UK has committed to spending 0.7 per cent of our national income on aid, and the formation of the [Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office] FCDO today will make sure our diplomatic influence and development expertise are combined to the best effect on the global stage," it said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:25 June: PM announces plan to merge DFID with Foreign Office
But critics doubt this will be the reality, instead seeing the move as a diminution of the UK's ability to use soft power to help those in crisis.
Adding to these concerns, the chancellor was reported on Monday to be eyeing a chunk of the £15 billion spent annually on foreign development to help plug a black hole in UK coffers caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Downing Street dismissed the reports as "speculation".
Tobias Ellwood, who served as a minister in the foreign office and in the Ministry of Defence, said anyone contemplating a raid on the UK's development budget does not understand the power and influence that expenditure buys.
"This is really, really short sighted," he said.
"Well targeted aid can strengthen relations" with other countries, which could help to generate future trade deals, Mr Ellwood, the Conservative chair of the defence select committee, said. "That then helps the Treasury - you're making the cake bigger."
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Andrew Mitchell, a former international development secretary, said he believes the government's real intention is to change the definition of what constitutes overseas development assistance.
Such a move could see money diverted from the world's most needy to more security-focused tasks such as purchasing military equipment.
"It won't be spending on development anymore and that would be a big mistake," Mr Mitchell said.
The UK's development budget is already taking a big hit because of the impact of coronavirus on the economy, with funding on programmes shrinking by £2.9 billion this financial year.
The new Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is seen by many DFID staffers as an FCO take-over rather than a merger of equals.
A Whitehall source said there have been mutterings about how the overall service will still be called the "diplomatic service" rather than the "diplomatic and development service".
There is also resentment that the title of the Cabinet minister in charge - Dominic Raab - will remain Foreign Secretary and not be stretched to include a mention of development.
"Let's face it - no one is going to say ['Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary']. It would take half an hour," the source said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Cabinet told 'country back on its feet'
In its first act, the new ministry announced a £119 million aid package to help combat the double threat of coronavirus and famines in Yemen, Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, Central African Republic, the Sahel, South Sudan and Sudan.
Nick Dyer, the former top civil servant at DFID, was also named as the UK's first "Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs".
Mr Raab said: "Coronavirus and famine threaten millions in some of the world's poorest countries, and give rise to direct problems that affect the UK, including terrorism and migration flows.
"Global Britain, as a force for good in the world, is leading by example and bringing the international community together to tackle these deadly threats, because it's the right thing to do and it protects British interests.
"We can only tackle these global challenges by combining our diplomatic strength with our world-leading aid expertise."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:46 PM's cabinet criticised as Parliament resumes
Boris Johnson drew widespread criticism - including from three former prime ministers - when he announced the plan to merge the FCO and DFID back in June.
The prime minister said at the time: "For too long frankly UK overseas aid has been treated as some giant cash point in the sky that arrives without any reference to UK interest."
A sweeping, Whitehall review of foreign affairs, defence and security - called the integrated review - is expected to set out the new department's priorities when it is published in November.
Diplomats have privately expressed surprised that the merger was announced ahead of the conclusion of the review rather than as a result of it.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-01--PM warns 'more wretched COVID' to come - but says govt can deal with outbreaks

Boris Johnson has warned there will be more `` wretched COVID '' to come but he is `` absolutely confident '' the government can deal with outbreaks .
The prime minister told ministers during a cabinet meeting that people are returning to their offices `` in huge numbers '' following a campaign to get people back to their work places .
He said it was `` quite right too '' after months of working from home or being furloughed .
Mr Johnson did not cite any evidence for his claim , and his office said it was too early to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the civil service to lead from the front by returning to their desks , but Number 10 said they did not yet have data on how many had gone back .
`` Of course we know there is still going to be more of this disease - this wretched COVID - still to come , '' Mr Johnson told ministers .
`` Although we know there will be more outbreaks , we are absolutely confident that we are going to be able to deal with those outbreaks , and bit by bit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its feet . ''
His comments came shortly before Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the best-case scenario for a vaccine would be one being available this year .
Speaking during health questions , Mr Hancock said work on a vaccine continues and trials `` have gone well '' .
The University of Oxford vaccine `` continues to be the world leader '' , he said , but the government has contracts with six different vaccine providers `` so that whichever comes off we can get access in this country '' .
Mr Hancock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ private companies to have greater access to testing to aid economic recovery .
`` The ability to provide tests to parts of the private sector who need to know that people do n't have the virus in order to be able to reopen parts of the economy , or just enable things to happen , '' he said .
`` That is a very important part of where we would like to get to when we have the next generation of testing .
`` At the moment , of course , we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the use of the capacity that we 've got . ''
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hancock added that A & E capacity is being expanded in time for winter , with `` billions more funding to the NHS '' to prevent a second peak .
And he said a new advertising campaign is to be launched soon to remind people what they can do to limit the spread of COVID-19 .
It will remind people that social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line of defence '' and will urge them to get a test if they have any symptoms .
`` We must do everything in our power to protect against a second wave here in the UK , '' he said after noting large case rises in France and Spain .

Boris Johnson has warned there will be more "wretched COVID" to come but he is " absolutely confident" the government can deal with outbreaks.
The prime minister told ministers during a cabinet meeting that people are returning to their offices "in huge numbers" following a campaign to get people back to their work places.
He said it was "quite right too" after months of working from home or being furloughed.
Mr Johnson did not cite any evidence for his claim, and his office said it was too early to provide numbers.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Cabinet told 'country back on its feet'
The government is pushing for the civil service to lead from the front by returning to their desks, but Number 10 said they did not yet have data on how many had gone back.
"Of course we know there is still going to be more of this disease - this wretched COVID - still to come," Mr Johnson told ministers.
"Although we know there will be more outbreaks, we are absolutely confident that we are going to be able to deal with those outbreaks, and bit by bit this incredible country is getting back on its feet."
His comments came shortly before Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the best-case scenario for a vaccine would be one being available this year.
Speaking during health questions, Mr Hancock said work on a vaccine continues and trials "have gone well".
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The University of Oxford vaccine "continues to be the world leader", he said, but the government has contracts with six different vaccine providers "so that whichever comes off we can get access in this country".
Image: Health Secretary Matt Hancock said a vaccine would be available this year 'in the best case scenario'
Mr Hancock said the government would like to enable private companies to have greater access to testing to aid economic recovery.
"The ability to provide tests to parts of the private sector who need to know that people don't have the virus in order to be able to reopen parts of the economy, or just enable things to happen," he said.
"That is a very important part of where we would like to get to when we have the next generation of testing.
"At the moment, of course, we have to follow a clinical protocol in terms of the use of the capacity that we've got."
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Hancock added that A&E capacity is being expanded in time for winter, with "billions more funding to the NHS" to prevent a second peak.
And he said a new advertising campaign is to be launched soon to remind people what they can do to limit the spread of COVID-19.
It will remind people that social distancing and personal hygiene is "the first line of defence" and will urge them to get a test if they have any symptoms.
"We must do everything in our power to protect against a second wave here in the UK," he said after noting large case rises in France and Spain.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-01--Turbulence ahead for PM as he tries to balance COVID-19 with job losses

Battered by a global pandemic , an emerging economic crisis and a series of policy missteps , the prime minister kicked off the new term acknowledging he and his government had spent the past few months `` sailing into the teeth of a gale '' .
Gathering his cabinet as MPs returned to Westminster , Boris Johnson admitted he had not always charted the right course after a summer of U-turns .
He said : `` I am no great nautical expert but sometimes it is necessary to tack here and there in response to the facts as they change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change but we have been going steadily in the direction , in the course we set out and we have not been blown off that course . ''
But from a health crisis in the summer , into an economic crisis this autumn , the prime minister knows he is still very much in the eye of the storm , and there will be turbulence ahead .
The big test for the autumn is how his government navigates those headwinds , with a parliamentary party more restive after a series of own goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debacle in August - and a public that is perhaps less willing to give the prime minister the benefit of the doubt as it was during the early storms of this pandemic .
A recent YouGov poll suggested Mr Johnson 's approval rating has fallen to its lowest level since October 2019 .
`` They need to get a grip , '' said one senior Conservative MP .
`` The raft of U-turns leaves much to be desired and now we 're not just talking over WhatsApp but we 're back in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our socks up , we ca n't get away with this much longer . ''
From the health emergency of March to the economic emergency now , the most pressing issue for the government is to get children back to school and adults back to their places of work .
Navigating a re-opening of the economy while managing the disease is going to be the critical test of the autumn and the overarching goal of the Johnson government is to avoid another national lockdown .
`` There is n't a choice between health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get the health policy right and keep control of the virus , that is what the economy needs , '' a government official said .
`` Another national lockdown will have a bigger impact on the economy than any measures the government can take . ''
The COVID-19 spending boom of the past six months has already blown a hole in the public finances , with debt rising to levels not seen since the Napoleonic Wars of the early 1800s .
With government debt exceeding £2trn for the first time , the chancellor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support for the economy has to be time-limited .
Rishi Sunak has ruled out extending the furlough job retention scheme , due to end on 31 October .
The Treasury has set up the £9bn Corona Retention scheme - a £1,000 bonus paid to companies to bring back furloughed employees until the end of January - and a £2bn kickstarter scheme for young people to try to slightly soften the cliff-edge when the furlough scheme ends .
But the chancellor is bracing for a wave of job losses and one of the `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen '' .
Against that backdrop , Mr Johnon has little option but to press on with re-opening our schools and our workplaces in the hope that people will return to work and help get the economy going again while local and national governments keep a handle on the virus .
Government figures admit it will be tough and that this is a perilously difficult course to steer .
The hope is that a combination of a more effective test and trace system , coupled with local lockdowns , will mean far more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dramatic nationwide measures required in March .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ministers and officials are bracing for a second wave of the virus but rather than waiting for a single giant peak , they are trying to contain the smaller ripples and swells in order to prevent an individual giant wave .
Into November and December , it will get ever harder , with the virus harder to suppress and the NHS entering its annual winter crisis period .
Into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the past few months , the coming period will be equally testing for the prime minister and his team .
Those calmer seas he spoke of in cabinet today seem a very long way off .

Battered by a global pandemic, an emerging economic crisis and a series of policy missteps, the prime minister kicked off the new term acknowledging he and his government had spent the past few months "sailing into the teeth of a gale".
Gathering his cabinet as MPs returned to Westminster, Boris Johnson admitted he had not always charted the right course after a summer of U-turns.
He said: "I am no great nautical expert but sometimes it is necessary to tack here and there in response to the facts as they change, in response to the wind's change but we have been going steadily in the direction, in the course we set out and we have not been blown off that course."
Image: The PM held a socially distanced cabinet meeting as MPs returned to Westminster after the summer recess
But from a health crisis in the summer, into an economic crisis this autumn, the prime minister knows he is still very much in the eye of the storm, and there will be turbulence ahead.
The big test for the autumn is how his government navigates those headwinds, with a parliamentary party more restive after a series of own goals and U-turns - most notable the A-level debacle in August - and a public that is perhaps less willing to give the prime minister the benefit of the doubt as it was during the early storms of this pandemic.
A recent YouGov poll suggested Mr Johnson's approval rating has fallen to its lowest level since October 2019.
Number 10's dud steering is unnerving some MPs.
"They need to get a grip," said one senior Conservative MP.
"The raft of U-turns leaves much to be desired and now we're not just talking over WhatsApp but we're back in the tearooms.
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"We need to pull our socks up, we can't get away with this much longer."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Cabinet told 'country back on its feet'
From the health emergency of March to the economic emergency now, the most pressing issue for the government is to get children back to school and adults back to their places of work.
Navigating a re-opening of the economy while managing the disease is going to be the critical test of the autumn and the overarching goal of the Johnson government is to avoid another national lockdown.
"There isn't a choice between health and the economy. We have to get the health policy right and keep control of the virus, that is what the economy needs," a government official said.
"Another national lockdown will have a bigger impact on the economy than any measures the government can take."
Image: Boris Johnson is trying to get pupils back to school after months out of the classroom
The COVID-19 spending boom of the past six months has already blown a hole in the public finances, with debt rising to levels not seen since the Napoleonic Wars of the early 1800s.
With government debt exceeding £2trn for the first time, the chancellor has made it clear that the extraordinary support for the economy has to be time-limited.
Rishi Sunak has ruled out extending the furlough job retention scheme, due to end on 31 October.
Image: Rishi Sunak's spending during the pandemic has seen debt rising to levels not seen since the 1800s
The Treasury has set up the £9bn Corona Retention scheme - a £1,000 bonus paid to companies to bring back furloughed employees until the end of January - and a £2bn kickstarter scheme for young people to try to slightly soften the cliff-edge when the furlough scheme ends.
But the chancellor is bracing for a wave of job losses and one of the "most severe recessions this country has ever seen".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:20 Government U-turn over masks in schools
Against that backdrop, Mr Johnon has little option but to press on with re-opening our schools and our workplaces in the hope that people will return to work and help get the economy going again while local and national governments keep a handle on the virus.
Government figures admit it will be tough and that this is a perilously difficult course to steer.
The hope is that a combination of a more effective test and trace system, coupled with local lockdowns, will mean far more targeted management of the virus than the dramatic nationwide measures required in March.
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Ministers and officials are bracing for a second wave of the virus but rather than waiting for a single giant peak, they are trying to contain the smaller ripples and swells in order to prevent an individual giant wave.
Into November and December, it will get ever harder, with the virus harder to suppress and the NHS entering its annual winter crisis period.
Into the "teeth of a gale" in the past few months, the coming period will be equally testing for the prime minister and his team. Those calmer seas he spoke of in cabinet today seem a very long way off.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-02--'Mistake' to think exams algorithm would be 'acceptable', Ofqual chief says

It was a `` fundamental mistake '' to believe a controversial algorithm initially used for A-level and GCSE results would `` ever be acceptable to the public '' , the head of the exams watchdog has said .
Roger Taylor , chair of Ofqual , launched a full-throated defence of the body 's role in the exams fiasco during an appearance in front of MPs .
: : Follow live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates He told the education select committee that the body advised the government against cancelling this summer 's exams because of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gavin Williamson that they be held in a `` socially distanced manner '' due to COVID-19 , Mr Taylor added .
Mr Taylor told MPs that the situation was `` rapidly getting out of control '' and policies were being put forward by Mr Williamson that `` were n't consistent with our legal duties '' .
The education secretary has resisted calls to resign over the row , but told Sky News last month he is `` incredibly sorry for the distress '' caused to students .
He said up until A-level results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the algorithm would not penalise disadvantaged students .
But over the following weekend , when he said `` it became clear there were anomalies '' , the government U-turned and reverted back to using teachers ' predicted grades for A-levels and GCSEs .
When the results were released it was revealed that nearly 40 % of A-level marks had been downgraded in England .
The system also appeared to advantage private schools , which saw nearly double the number of increases in top marks year-on-year compared to state comprehensives .
Boris Johnson was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking responsibility '' for the debacle after blaming the `` mutant '' algorithm .
The prime minister had previously defended the system , describing the marks given to students as `` robust '' and `` dependable '' .

It was a "fundamental mistake" to believe a controversial algorithm initially used for A-level and GCSE results would "ever be acceptable to the public", the head of the exams watchdog has said.
Roger Taylor, chair of Ofqual, launched a full-throated defence of the body's role in the exams fiasco during an appearance before MPs.
:: Follow live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Williamson 'deeply sorry' over exam results chaos
The issue also dominated exchanges between Boris Johnson and Sir Keir Starmer during the first PMQs of the new parliamentary term.
Mr Taylor told the education select committee that the body advised the government against cancelling this summer's exams because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Ofqual suggested to Education Secretary Gavin Williamson that they be held in a "socially distanced manner" due to COVID-19, Mr Taylor added, or if not to delay them.
"The third option - if neither of these were acceptable - would be to have to try and look at some form of calculated grade," he told the committee.
Mr Taylor added: "It was the secretary of state who then subsequently took the decision and announced without further consultation with Ofqual that exams were to be cancelled and the system of calculated grades were to be implemented."
He said the government was warned that cancelling exams and opting for calculated grades would be the "worst-case scenario".
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Mr Taylor told MPs that the situation was "rapidly getting out of control" and policies were being put forward by Mr Williamson that "weren't consistent with our legal duties".
Labour's shadow education secretary Kate Green said the evidence raises "serious questions" about the education secretary's role in the exams furore.
"Gavin Williamson has repeatedly tried to blame Ofqual and officials for the crisis over exams. It is now clear he was responsible," she said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:37 PM blames 'mutant algorithm' for exams fiasco
"Williamson must urgently come to the Commons to offer an explanation and to take responsibility for his own incompetence."
Mr Williamson has resisted calls to resign over the row, but told Sky News last month he is "incredibly sorry for the distress" caused to students.
He said up until A-level results day he had "every confidence" the algorithm would not penalise disadvantaged students.
But over the following weekend, when he said "it became clear there were anomalies", the government U-turned and reverted back to using teachers' predicted grades for A-levels and GCSEs.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:10 Exams U-turn a 'massive relief' for students
When the results were released it was revealed that nearly 40% of A-level marks had been downgraded in England.
The system also appeared to advantage private schools, which saw nearly double the number of increases in top marks year-on-year compared to state comprehensives.
Boris Johnson was accused of "shamelessly trying to avoid taking responsibility" for the debacle after blaming the "mutant" algorithm.
The prime minister had previously defended the system, describing the marks given to students as "robust" and "dependable".
Asked about the row at PMQs on Wednesday, Mr Johnson sidestepped a call from Sir Keir to reveal when he knew there was an issue with the algorithm.
"As a result of what we learned about the tests, the results that had come in, we did institute a change, we did act," the PM said.
He labelled the Labour leader "Captain Hindsight", accusing him of "leaping on a bandwagon".
"The problem is he's governing in hindsight, that's why he's making so many mistakes," Sir Keir hit back.
He said Mr Johnson was guilty of "serial incompetence" and accused him of "making it up as he goes along"


skynewspolitics--2020-09-02--Secondary school teachers 'should get weekly virus testing', government urged

Secondary school teachers should be tested weekly for coronavirus , a former health secretary has said .
Jeremy Hunt , who now chairs the health and social care committee , told Sky News that regular COVID-19 tests would help reassure parents .
: : Follow live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates The senior Conservative MP was speaking as pupils in England and Wales continue to return to the classroom for the start of the autumn term amid the coronavirus pandemic .
`` My children are primary school age and the risk seems to be higher in secondary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burley programme .
`` I 'm one of the people who would like the government to introduce weekly testing for all secondary school teachers , just to give that extra bit of reassurance .
`` I hope when we get the testing capacity up we will do that . ''
Speaking in the Commons on Tuesday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock , who succeeded Mr Hunt in July 2018 , said : `` It 's my intention to deploy as much testing as possible using the new testing innovations that are coming on-stream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible following clinical advice .
`` We 've set out the process that we propose to use for the current generation of testing capability but if a new , easier type of test gets over the line then , of course , we 'll always keep that under clinical review and guided by the clinicians . ''
The UK 's chief medical officers have warned that children are more at risk of long-term harm if they do not go back to school than if they return .
They said that children have an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the disease , and `` very few , if any '' children and teenagers would come to long-term harm from COVID-19 solely by attending school .
A Public Health England study released last month said secondary schools `` appear to experience wider transmission and larger outbreaks than schools for younger students '' and the `` risk of infection , disease and transmission is likely to be higher in older than younger children '' .
For many pupils going back this week , it will be their first time in the classroom since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vulnerable children and those of key workers .
A recent survey of school leaders by the National Association of Head Teachers found that 97 % plan to reopen their schools to all pupils this term .
The remaining 3 % said they were planning transition periods for new pupils or phasing entry to lessen the worries of students and parents .

Secondary school teachers should be tested weekly for coronavirus, a former health secretary has said.
Jeremy Hunt, who now chairs the health and social care committee, told Sky News that regular COVID-19 tests would help reassure parents.
:: Follow live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Cabinet told 'country back on its feet'
The senior Conservative MP was speaking as pupils in England and Wales continue to return to the classroom for the start of the autumn term amid the coronavirus pandemic.
"My children are primary school age and the risk seems to be higher in secondary schools," he told the Kay Burley programme.
"I'm one of the people who would like the government to introduce weekly testing for all secondary school teachers, just to give that extra bit of reassurance.
"I hope when we get the testing capacity up we will do that."
Speaking in the Commons on Tuesday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who succeeded Mr Hunt in July 2018, said: "It's my intention to deploy as much testing as possible using the new testing innovations that are coming on-stream and to deploy it as widely as possible following clinical advice.
"We've set out the process that we propose to use for the current generation of testing capability but if a new, easier type of test gets over the line then, of course, we'll always keep that under clinical review and guided by the clinicians."
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The UK's chief medical officers have warned that children are more at risk of long-term harm if they do not go back to school than if they return.
They said that children have an "exceptionally low risk of dying" from the disease, and "very few, if any" children and teenagers would come to long-term harm from COVID-19 solely by attending school.
A Public Health England study released last month said secondary schools "appear to experience wider transmission and larger outbreaks than schools for younger students" and the "risk of infection, disease and transmission is likely to be higher in older than younger children".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 'Schools won't have to shut in event of COVID case'
For many pupils going back this week, it will be their first time in the classroom since March, when schools closed except for vulnerable children and those of key workers.
A recent survey of school leaders by the National Association of Head Teachers found that 97% plan to reopen their schools to all pupils this term.
The remaining 3% said they were planning transition periods for new pupils or phasing entry to lessen the worries of students and parents.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-02--Pupils back at school demand 'quick' decision on 2021 exams

Ofqual appears to have missed its deadline on announcing the timetable for next year 's GCSE and A-level exams , as pupils returning to school for the start of a new academic year called for a `` quick '' decision .
The exam regulator launched a consultation in July which proposed delaying the start of GCSE exams until after half term to 7 June , to allow for more teaching time .
It said any changes would be announced in August , but it has not yet made a final decision on the timetable for 2021 , and is still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's exams .
: : Follow live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates In a consultation document last month , Ofqual revealed that 37 % of respondents strongly supported delaying the exams , compared with 8 % who said it was a bad idea .
The regulator said : `` While there was general support for a delay to the exams , to allow more time for teaching , respondents were less positive about this if it meant a potential delay to results .
`` We will continue to work with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Wales and Northern Ireland , and groups representing schools , colleges and higher education to consider the best approach , and we will confirm our decisions as soon as possible . ''
It means staff and students face further uncertainty with just two terms left to prepare for GCSEs and A-levels , having lost several months of learning due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Mason Parkes , 15 , who attends Bristnall Hall Academy in Oldbury , West Midlands , told Sky News : `` It 's definitely hard and challenging ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a decision because we do n't know whether we are doing them later or if it 's just certain subjects or if it 's teachers ' predicted grades .
`` It 's definitely worrying because we do n't know what 's going on or what to do , or what we are doing .
I hope a decision is going to be made soon .
I 'm just going to try and get my head down and revise in every subject that I can . ''
Rajan Mattu , 15 , added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make a decision quite quickly so we know what we need to do for our exams so we can prepare in the right way .
`` I would n't prefer them to be delayed .
I would rather get them out of the way and done .
All we can do is work , but we do n't know what to work on . ''
On Tuesday Education Secretary Gavin Williams , who supports delaying exams , told MPs the government is determined that exams will go ahead in 2021 , adding they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` this is done as smoothly as possible '' .
Labour has said next year 's exams should be pushed back to mid-summer due to the impact of the COVID-19 crisis .
Shadow education secretary Kate Green said pupils starting Year 11 and 13 face `` a mountain to climb '' unless the timetable is changed .
She said exams due next May need to be delayed until June or July to facilitate extra teaching time .
A final decision looms as Ofqual 's chairman was questioned by MPs on Wednesday over this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told MPs that the situation with this year 's school exams was `` rapidly getting out of control '' under Mr Williamson .
Mr Taylor said it was a `` fundamental mistake '' to believe the algorithm initially used for A-level and GCSE results would `` ever be acceptable to the public '' .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ofqual was fiercely criticised after the `` moderation '' algorithm it designed meant around 280,000 students in England saw their A-level marks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their predicted results .
The algorithm , used following the cancellation of this year 's exams due to the coronavirus pandemic , was claimed to have disproportionately penalised students from schools in disadvantaged communities .
The regulator faced further anger over its handling of the appeals process for students who wished to challenge their results .
Following the controversy , Ofqual and the government then performed a U-turn by ditching the algorithm and announcing A-level and GCSE students would instead be handed exam grades as predicted by their teachers .

Ofqual has said a decision on if and when next year's GCSE and A-level exams will go ahead is weeks away - and has floated the idea of online tests if necessary.
The exam regulator launched a consultation in July, which proposed delaying the start of GCSEs until after half term, pushing them back to 7 June to allow for more teaching time.
It said any changes would be announced in August, but it has not yet made a final decision on the timetable for 2021, and is still drawing up contingency plans for next summer's exams.
:: Follow live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Image: Ofqual has yet to announce a final decision on the timetable for 2021's GCSE and A-level exams
Questioned by MPs on how it planned to avoid a repetition of this summer's exams fiasco, when ministers decided to scrap exams for an algorithm to award grades, Ofqual's chairman suggested the regulator was keen for traditional exams to take place.
Richard Taylor told the Commons education committee on Wednesday it was "absolutely essential" students sit a "fair, comparative test".
And in the event of a local lockdown, he said there are "mechanisms" - including "online tests" - which offered a solution.
Ofqual, which has been considering whether to delay exams next year, has been consulting on the issue since June.
In a consultation document last month, Ofqual revealed that 37% of respondents strongly supported delaying the exams, compared with 8% who said it was a bad idea.
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Image: The consultation response on whether to delay exams (Source Ofqual)
The regulator said: "While there was general support for a delay to the exams, to allow more time for teaching, respondents were less positive about this if it meant a potential delay to results.
"We will continue to work with the DfE (Department for Education), exam boards, regulators in Wales and Northern Ireland, and groups representing schools, colleges and higher education to consider the best approach, and we will confirm our decisions as soon as possible."
That was back on 3 August, and Julie Swan - the regulator's executive director for general qualifications - told MPs a decision would be announced in the coming weeks.
Image: Schools are reopening for the start of a new academic year
It means staff and students face further uncertainty with just two terms left to prepare for GCSEs and A-levels, having lost several months of learning due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Mason Parkes, 15, who attends Bristnall Hall Academy in Oldbury, West Midlands, told Sky News: "It's definitely hard and challenging... I would like the government to make a decision because we don't know whether we are doing them later or if it's just certain subjects or if it's teachers' predicted grades.
"It's definitely worrying because we don't know what's going on or what to do, or what we are doing. I hope a decision is going to be made soon. I'm just going to try and get my head down and revise in every subject that I can."
Rajan Mattu, 15, added: "I feel the government needs to make a decision quite quickly so we know what we need to do for our exams so we can prepare in the right way.
"I wouldn't prefer them to be delayed. I would rather get them out of the way and done. All we can do is work, but we don't know what to work on."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 2021 exams to 'go ahead' after delay rumours
On Tuesday, Education Secretary Gavin Williams, who supports delaying exams, told MPs the government is determined that exams will go ahead in 2021, adding they were working with the sector to ensure "this is done as smoothly as possible".
Labour has said next year's exams should be pushed back to mid-summer due to the impact of the COVID-19 crisis.
Shadow education secretary Kate Green said pupils starting Year 11 and 13 face "a mountain to climb" unless the timetable is changed.
She said exams due next May need to be delayed until June or July to facilitate extra teaching time.
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Some BTEC students still haven't received their grades, Labour MPs Sarah Owen and Shabana Mahmood told Mr Williamson, who said the issue was being addressed "as swiftly as possible".
"This is something that occurs each year, and the number of youngsters who received their BTEC awards was significantly higher than the previous year, but there are some centres where there continue to be some challenges," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:30 Hunt wants 'weekly testing' for teachers
Ofqual was fiercely criticised after the "moderation" algorithm it designed meant around 280,000 students in England saw their A-level marks fall by one grade or more from their predicted results.
The algorithm, used following the cancellation of this year's exams due to the coronavirus pandemic, was claimed to have disproportionately penalised students from schools in disadvantaged communities.
The regulator faced further anger over its handling of the appeals process for students who wished to challenge their results.
Following the controversy, Ofqual and the government performed a U-turn by ditching the algorithm and announcing A-level and GCSE students would instead be handed exam grades as predicted by their teachers.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-02--'Completely reprehensible': UK and US lead condemnation after novichok attack

Boris Johnson has called for answers from the Kremlin over the poisoning of a Putin critic with novichok .
The prime minister said it was `` outrageous '' a chemical weapon was used against Alexei Navalny after German hospital tests proved `` without doubt '' he was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent .
He added : `` We have seen first hand the deadly consequences of novichok in the UK .
`` The Russian government must now explain what happened to Mr Navalny - we will work with international partners to ensure justice is done . ''
The Kremlin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sergei Skripal and his daughter with novichok in Salisbury in 2018 .
Moscow has denied any involvement .
Britain 's foreign minister said it is `` absolutely unacceptable '' a banned chemical weapon has been used again .
Dominic Raab said : `` The Russian government has a clear case to answer .
It must tell the truth about what happened to Mr Navalny .
`` We will work closely with Germany , our allies and international partners to demonstrate that there are consequences for using banned chemical weapons anywhere in the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Berlin hospital after falling ill on an internal Russia flight on 20 August , with doctors in Omsk where he was in hospital saying he had pancreatitis and was not poisoned .
He remains in a serious but stable condition in Berlin .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock added that the UK will `` stand ready to offer all the support that 's available to help Germany , to investigate and take action as necessary '' .
Marina Litvinenko , the wife of Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko who died after being poisoned with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in Russia believed Mr Navalny was `` on safe ground '' .
She told Sky News : `` Now , it looks like this regime can do whatever they want .
`` After what happened with my husband , everyone said 'Russia is not safe ' , but despite all the evidence Russia would not stop .
`` It 's a big question for Western governments , do you really understand who you are dealing with in Vladimir Putin ?
People may be killed , may be poisoned and after that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some kind of decision ? ''
She believes the Kremlin allowed Mr Navalny to be transferred to a German hospital because whoever poisoned him did not think novichok would be detected .
Mrs Litvinenko added that in her husband 's case , the UK was the only country to stand up to Russia , and said the entire international community needs to do so now if Russia is to be held properly accountable .
Labour 's shadow minister for Europe said the development is `` serious and alarming '' and said the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's poisoning to the Organisation for the Prevention of Chemical Weapons ( OPCW ) .
A White House spokesman called Mr Navalny 's poisoning `` completely reprehensible '' and said the US will work with the international community to hold those in Russia accountable .
The US will also restrict funds for their `` malign activities '' , he added .
German chancellor Angela Merkel said Mr Navalny 's poisoning was attempted murder and called for Russia to carry out an investigation into who poisoned him , while also promising an investigation by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it could not give a proper response yet and it has requested a full exchange of data between Berlin and Moscow , as well as full co-operation .
A source with details of a Russian inquiry into Mr Navalny 's hospital admission said the investigation is `` a purely procedural formality and there are still no reasons whatsoever to assume that Navalny was poisoned '' , according to Russian state news agency Interfax .
French foreign affairs minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said : `` I wish to condemn in the strongest possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such an agent . ''
: : Listen to Polonium and the Piano Player on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Google Podcasts , Spreaker NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said he `` utterly '' condemns the use of novichok and called on Russia to conduct a `` full and transparent investigation '' , as he added that NATO will consult with Germany and other allies on the implications .
Ursula von der Leyen , president of the EU Commission , said Mr Navalny 's poisoning `` is a despicable and cowardly act - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be brought to justice , '' she added .
Lithuania 's foreign affairs minister also condemned the poisoning , saying `` you ca n't buy this in drug store '' as he referred to novichok .
Linas Linkevicius tweeted those responsible `` must face consequences '' and `` not too many lines remain uncrossed '' .

Boris Johnson has called for answers from the Kremlin over the poisoning of a Putin critic with novichok.
The prime minister said it was "outrageous" a chemical weapon was used against Alexei Navalny after German hospital tests proved "without doubt" he was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent.
He added: "We have seen first hand the deadly consequences of novichok in the UK.
"The Russian government must now explain what happened to Mr Navalny - we will work with international partners to ensure justice is done."
Image: Alexei Navalny was transferred from Omsk, Russia, to a hospital in Berlin on 22 August
The Kremlin was accused of poisoning former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter with novichok in Salisbury in 2018. Moscow has denied any involvement.
Britain's foreign minister said it is "absolutely unacceptable" a banned chemical weapon has been used again.
Dominic Raab said: "The Russian government has a clear case to answer. It must tell the truth about what happened to Mr Navalny.
"We will work closely with Germany, our allies and international partners to demonstrate that there are consequences for using banned chemical weapons anywhere in the world."
Mr Navalny was transferred to a Berlin hospital after falling ill on an internal Russia flight on 20 August, with doctors in Omsk where he was in hospital saying he had pancreatitis and was not poisoned. He remains in a serious but stable condition in Berlin.
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Health Secretary Matt Hancock added that the UK will "stand ready to offer all the support that's available to help Germany, to investigate and take action as necessary".
Marina Litvinenko, the wife of Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko who died after being poisoned with radioactive polonium in 2006, said many people in Russia believed Mr Navalny was "on safe ground".
She told Sky News: "Now, it looks like this regime can do whatever they want.
"After what happened with my husband, everyone said 'Russia is not safe', but despite all the evidence Russia would not stop.
"It's a big question for Western governments, do you really understand who you are dealing with in Vladimir Putin? People may be killed, may be poisoned and after that will you do business as usual or make some kind of decision?"
She believes the Kremlin allowed Mr Navalny to be transferred to a German hospital because whoever poisoned him did not think novichok would be detected.
Mrs Litvinenko added that in her husband's case, the UK was the only country to stand up to Russia, and said the entire international community needs to do so now if Russia is to be held properly accountable.
Labour's shadow minister for Europe said the development is "serious and alarming" and said the UK must support the referral of Mr Navalny's poisoning to the Organisation for the Prevention of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
A White House spokesman called Mr Navalny's poisoning "completely reprehensible" and said the US will work with the international community to hold those in Russia accountable.
The US will also restrict funds for their "malign activities", he added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 Putin critic was poisoned with novichok, says German govt
German chancellor Angela Merkel said Mr Navalny's poisoning was attempted murder and called for Russia to carry out an investigation into who poisoned him, while also promising an investigation by the EU and NATO.
The Kremlin said it could not give a proper response yet and it has requested a full exchange of data between Berlin and Moscow, as well as full co-operation.
A source with details of a Russian inquiry into Mr Navalny's hospital admission said the investigation is "a purely procedural formality and there are still no reasons whatsoever to assume that Navalny was poisoned", according to Russian state news agency Interfax.
French foreign affairs minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said: "I wish to condemn in the strongest possible terms the
shocking and irresponsible use of such an agent."
:: Listen to Polonium and the Piano Player on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Spreaker
NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said he "utterly" condemns the use of novichok and called on Russia to conduct a "full and transparent investigation", as he added that NATO will consult with Germany and other allies on the implications.
Ursula von der Leyen, president of the EU Commission, said Mr Navalny's poisoning "is a despicable and cowardly act - once again".
"Perpetrators need to be brought to justice," she added.
Lithuania's foreign affairs minister also condemned the poisoning, saying "you can't buy this in drug store" as he referred to novichok.
Linas Linkevicius tweeted those responsible "must face consequences" and "not too many lines remain uncrossed".


skynewspolitics--2020-09-02--'Sloppy kisses' and groping: Trade union found to be 'institutionally sexist'

Women were propositioned , given `` sloppy kisses '' and had their backsides slapped at one of the UK 's biggest trade unions , a report said , calling the organisation `` institutionally sexist '' .
Female staff at GMB also complained colleagues would stare at their breasts , while one claimed she had a tongue stuck down her ear and another said being groped at events was `` expected '' , the damning document published on Wednesday said .
The general attitude there was `` predatory '' , with bullying , misogyny , cronyism and sexual harassment `` endemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was drawn up by Karon Monaghan QC , commissioned to investigate after the sudden resignation of Tim Roache as general secretary in April amid allegations of misconduct that he denies .
GMB has more than 620,000 members and is among Labour 's biggest funders , having helped to bankroll the party 's general election campaign last year .
The report into sexual harassment and how complaints are dealt with found the culture in GMB `` is one of heavy drinking and late night socialising , salacious gossip and a lack of professionalism '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sexual harassment were `` rare '' - but thought this was because women felt unable to make them or thought there was `` no point '' .
She added the union is `` not a comfortable place to be '' for employees and members who are not Caucasian .
`` The GMB needs to address its culture more broadly if it wants to be an inclusive union as its aims declare , '' the report said .
`` At the moment it is 'white , male and stale . '
'' Men often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cronyism '' and without going through proper processes , the report found .
It concluded : `` The culture of the GMB must change if it is to be a safe and rewarding place for women .
`` A culture of intolerance towards sexual harassment must be embedded .
`` Where it happens , witnesses to it must call it out . ''
Barbara Plant , the union 's national president , said the report made for `` sad and difficult reading '' and apologised on behalf of GMB to everyone affected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She added : `` It 's clear that real and lasting change is needed for us to become a safe and inclusive place for all ... '' The union will now act on the report 's recommendations .
We are committed to achieving this transformational change . ''

Women were propositioned, given "sloppy kisses" and had their backsides slapped at one of the UK's biggest trade unions, a report said, calling the organisation "institutionally sexist".
Female staff at GMB also complained colleagues would stare at their breasts, while one claimed she had a tongue stuck down her ear and another said being groped at events was "expected", the damning document published on Wednesday said.
The general attitude there was "predatory", with bullying, misogyny, cronyism and sexual harassment "endemic", it added.
The report was drawn up by Karon Monaghan QC, commissioned to investigate after the sudden resignation of Tim Roache as general secretary in April amid allegations of misconduct that he denies.
Image: Tim Roache stepped down as general secretary in April
GMB has more than 620,000 members and is among Labour's biggest funders, having helped to bankroll the party's general election campaign last year.
The report into sexual harassment and how complaints are dealt with found the culture in GMB "is one of heavy drinking and late night socialising, salacious gossip and a lack of professionalism".
Ms Monaghan said formal complaints of sexual harassment were "rare" - but thought this was because women felt unable to make them or thought there was "no point".
She added the union is "not a comfortable place to be" for employees and members who are not Caucasian.
The culture of the GMB must change if it is to be a safe and rewarding place for women.
"The GMB needs to address its culture more broadly if it wants to be an inclusive union as its aims declare," the report said.
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"At the moment it is 'white, male and stale.'"
Men often got jobs "largely as a result of cronyism" and without going through proper processes, the report found.
It concluded: "The culture of the GMB must change if it is to be a safe and rewarding place for women.
"This requires firm action including disciplinary action.
"A culture of intolerance towards sexual harassment must be embedded.
"Where it happens, witnesses to it must call it out."
Barbara Plant, the union's national president, said the report made for "sad and difficult reading" and apologised on behalf of GMB to everyone affected by the bullying or sexual harassment.
She added: "It's clear that real and lasting change is needed for us to become a safe and inclusive place for all...
"The union will now act on the report's recommendations. We are committed to achieving this transformational change."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-02--Sunak's notes snapped: No 'horror' tax rises but 'difficult things' to come

The chancellor has had his notes snapped on camera - revealing that there will be no `` horror show of tax rises '' but there are `` difficult things '' to come .
Rishi Sunak became the latest minister to fail to hide important documents as he emerged through the front door of 10 Downing Street on Wednesday .
He was seen clutching a document annotated with highlights and hand-scribbled additions in red pen ahead of a showdown with new Tory MPs , reportedly called to shore up support after a tough summer for the government .
He and Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intake , including many from the so-called `` red wall '' of parliamentary seats won after decades of Labour control at the last election .
There has been unrest on the back benches during recess over the government 's handling of issues like the exam results fiasco , leading to Tory MPs complaining to Sky News about a string of `` avoidable '' and `` predictable '' U-turns .
Their anger was compounded over the weekend when The Sunday Telegraph reported Treasury insiders are pushing for `` the largest tax rises in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused by the COVID-19 pandemic .
But those concerns may have been quelled by the contents of Mr Sunak 's note flashed to photographers as he left Number 10 .
In a move that some suggested was a mishap but others thought could be a deliberate ploy to quell discontent , the note warns Mr Sunak will `` need to do some difficult things '' .
It adds : `` Now this does n't mean a horror show of tax rises with no end in sight .
`` But it does mean treating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honest with them about the challenges we face and showing them how we plan to correct our public finances . ''
Mr Sunak also warned the government can not say `` there is no limit to what we can spend '' or `` that we can simply borrow our way out of any hole '' .
`` We can not , will not and must not surrender our position as the party of economic competence and sound finance , '' he added .
A Treasury source declined to comment when asked by Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accidental .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Sunak appeared to make light of the incident in a tweet later , saying `` got my notes on my phone this time '' .
Mr Johnson also had a gritty warning for the new MPs he spoke to on Wednesday .
`` I know it 's been tough , '' he told them , but added : `` I 've got to warn you going it 's about to get tougher .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ choppier .
But we are going to deal with it . ''

The chancellor has had his notes snapped on camera - revealing that there will be no "horror show of tax rises" but there are "difficult things" to come.
Rishi Sunak became the latest minister to fail to hide important documents as he emerged through the front door of 10 Downing Street on Wednesday.
He was seen clutching a document annotated with highlights and hand-scribbled additions in red pen ahead of a showdown with new Tory MPs, reportedly called to shore up support after a tough summer for the government.
Image: The speech was highlighted and annotated with red pen. Pic: @PoliticalPics
He and Prime Minister Boris Johnson are meeting the latest intake, including many from the so-called "red wall" of parliamentary seats won after decades of Labour control at the last election.
There has been unrest on the back benches during recess over the government's handling of issues like the exam results fiasco, leading to Tory MPs complaining to Sky News about a string of "avoidable" and "predictable" U-turns.
Their anger was compounded over the weekend when The Sunday Telegraph reported Treasury insiders are pushing for "the largest tax rises in a generation" to respond to the recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
But those concerns may have been quelled by the contents of Mr Sunak's note flashed to photographers as he left Number 10.
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In a move that some suggested was a mishap but others thought could be a deliberate ploy to quell discontent, the note warns Mr Sunak will "need to do some difficult things".
It adds: "Now this doesn't mean a horror show of tax rises with no end in sight.
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"But it does mean treating the British people with respect, being honest with them about the challenges we face and showing them how we plan to correct our public finances."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Williamson 'deeply sorry' over exam results chaos
Mr Sunak also warned the government cannot say "there is no limit to what we can spend" or "that we can simply borrow our way out of any hole".
"We cannot, will not and must not surrender our position as the party of economic competence and sound finance," he added.
A Treasury source declined to comment when asked by Sky News if the leak was deliberate or accidental.
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Sunak appeared to make light of the incident in a tweet later, saying "got my notes on my phone this time".
Mr Johnson also had a gritty warning for the new MPs he spoke to on Wednesday.
"I know it's been tough," he told them, but added: "I've got to warn you going it's about to get tougher.
"The waters are about to get choppier. But we are going to deal with it."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-02--'Take it back': Johnson and Starmer clash during ill-tempered PMQs

Welcome to `` I 'm a Prime Minister… Get Me Out of Here ! ''
Boris Johnson gives every impression of wishing he was somewhere else when confronted by Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister 's Questions .
For the light-on-detail PM , facing a forensic cross examination by the former director of public prosecutions appears about as appealing as a bushtucker trial involving eating ants , kangaroo testicles or cockroaches .
So when James Davies , the new Tory MP for Vale of Clywd , rose during PMQs to welcome the famous reality TV show relocating from New South @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got all wistful and misty-eyed .
His Tory colleague was right , Mr Johnson said , `` to draw attention to the attractions of North Wales '' , reminding MPs that he unsuccessfully fought Clwyd South in 1997 .
Previously , after losing by more than 13,000 votes , Mr Johnson has declared : `` I fought Clwyd South and it is fair to say that Clwyd South fought back . ''
At the end of PMQs , when the Scottish National Party 's Westminster leader , Ian Blackford , rose to accuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smear '' by claiming he tipped off the media about Mr Johnson 's holiday location in his Highland constituency , the PM said he 'd had a `` wonderful staycation '' in Easter Ross .
But in this first PMQs of the autumn , there was no escape for Mr Johnson from the cauldron of the Commons chamber - more steamy and sweaty that I 'm a Celebrity 's Australian jungle camp in a heatwave - and the latest attack from the Labour leader .
The prime minister is `` tin eared '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes along '' , Sir Keir said .
The pleasantries exchanged with his Tory colleague from North Wales and - briefly - the SNP leader were rare moments of light relief in a 38-minute session that was the most ill-tempered and acrimonious since Sir Keir became Labour leader in April .
The two dominant themes were the prime minister 's determination to hammer home the message about children returning to school despite Labour opposition , and demands from opposition MPs for an extension to the furlough scheme beyond October .
From the PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' jibe that he has used before against Sir Keir .
Sir Keir had a ready response , though : `` The problem is he 's governing in hindsight , '' he said of the PM .
`` That 's why he 's making so many mistakes . ''
And at least we were n't treated to a repeat of `` more briefs than Calvin Klein '' and `` more flip flops than Bournemouth beach '' gags that he deployed against the Labour leader before the summer break .
This time the prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came in a provocative claim that in backing Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader he was guilty of condoning the activities of the IRA .
`` This is a leader of the opposition who supported an IRA-condoning politician who wanted to get out of NATO , and now says absolutely nothing about it , '' said the prime minister .
If riling Sir Keir was the aim , it certainly worked .
The normally composed Sir Keir 's pink cheeks were florid with rage .
`` I want him to take it back , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sir Lindsay Hoyle .
`` I worked for five years with the Police Service of Northern Ireland , as director of public prosecutions , prosecuting serious terrorism , working with the intelligence and security services , and the police .
Can the prime minister have the decency to withdraw that comment ? ''
He did n't , not immediately , anyway .
And only in a very half-hearted way when ordered to do so by an equally angry Sir Lindsay , who cut him short again .
This angry exchange - and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the prime minister repeatedly dodged or ignored questions by Sir Keir about the summer exams fiasco and instead went on the attack against the Labour leader .
For a while , it was hard to tell who was more cross , the Labour leader or the Speaker .
`` Try and answer the questions being put to the prime minister ! ''
barked Sir Lindsay .
And for good measure , he waved his papers in a gesture at the PM and snapped : `` Come on ! ''
What appears to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's insults - which are , after all , part of the ritual of PMQs - is his repeated dodging of the questions put to him , particularly by the leader of the opposition .
All prime ministers do it in PMQs , of course , but the current PM does n't even do it in a subtle way , as Tony Blair or David Cameron might have done .
The current prime minister and his Brexit allies demonstrably loathed Sir Lindsay 's predecessor , John Bercow .
But relations between the PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's chair appear to be deteriorating already after only a few months as Sir Lindsay gives every sign of having lost patience with Mr Johnson .
He strongly disapproves , for instance , of the PM 's plans for televised news conferences .
`` Statements should be made to the House first , '' Sir Lindsay said in a recent interview .
`` Once you 've made that statement , by all means go and have a press conference .
But do it after , not before . ''
Watching all the ill-tempered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vantage point on the Tory front bench below the gangway - looking directly at both the PM and leader of the opposition - was one very interested onlooker : the serene and seemingly unflappable chancellor , Rishi Sunak .
He smiled during the exchanges on furlough and the prime minister 's hailing of his new `` kickstart '' scheme for young jobless , though he will have been irritated that Mr Johnson kept getting the name wrong and calling it `` kickstarter '' .
When Gordon Brown was chancellor , he used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a frivolous waste of time .
But he was ordered to turn up by his closest aides , Ed Balls and Charlie Whelan , who told him : `` You 'll have to do it when you 're prime minister . ''
When George Osborne was chancellor he sat so close to Mr Cameron that he was almost perched on his knee as he prompted his friend `` Dave '' and gave him all his best lines .
The always smiling Mr Sunak - current favourite to replace Mr Johnson as Tory leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feeding the PM good lines and throughout PMQs was no doubt contemplating that one day it will be him answering the questions at noon on a Wednesday .
And on the evidence of his performance as chancellor so far , Mr Sunak is unlikely to dodge questions the way his boss does .
Boris Johnson may wish he was somewhere else during PMQs , but for would-be prime minister Mr Sunak his appearance and demeanour appeared to suggest he was thinking `` I 'm the chancellor… But Get Me Into No .
10 @ @

Welcome to "I'm a Prime Minister… Get Me Out of Here!"
Boris Johnson gives every impression of wishing he was somewhere else when confronted by Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister's Questions.
For the light-on-detail PM, facing a forensic cross examination by the former director of public prosecutions appears about as appealing as a bushtucker trial involving eating ants, kangaroo testicles or cockroaches.
So when James Davies, the new Tory MP for Vale of Clywd, rose during PMQs to welcome the famous reality TV show relocating from New South Wales to North Wales, the PM got all wistful and misty-eyed.
His Tory colleague was right, Mr Johnson said, "to draw attention to the attractions of North Wales", reminding MPs that he unsuccessfully fought Clwyd South in 1997.
Previously, after losing by more than 13,000 votes, Mr Johnson has declared: "I fought Clwyd South and it is fair to say that Clwyd South fought back."
Image: Ian Blackford accused the Tories of a 'targeted political smear'
At the end of PMQs, when the Scottish National Party's Westminster leader, Ian Blackford, rose to accuse the Tories of a "targeted political smear" by claiming he tipped off the media about Mr Johnson's holiday location in his Highland constituency, the PM said he'd had a "wonderful staycation" in Easter Ross.
But in this first PMQs of the autumn, there was no escape for Mr Johnson from the cauldron of the Commons chamber - more steamy and sweaty that I'm a Celebrity's Australian jungle camp in a heatwave - and the latest attack from the Labour leader.
The prime minister is "tin eared" and "making it up as he goes along", Sir Keir said.
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The pleasantries exchanged with his Tory colleague from North Wales and - briefly - the SNP leader were rare moments of light relief in a 38-minute session that was the most ill-tempered and acrimonious since Sir Keir became Labour leader in April.
The two dominant themes were the prime minister's determination to hammer home the message about children returning to school despite Labour opposition, and demands from opposition MPs for an extension to the furlough scheme beyond October.
From the PM, we had the "Captain Hindsight" jibe that he has used before against Sir Keir.
Sir Keir had a ready response, though: "The problem is he's governing in hindsight," he said of the PM. "That's why he's making so many mistakes."
Image: As appealing as a bushtucker trial? Boris Johnson contemplates PMQs
And at least we weren't treated to a repeat of "more briefs than Calvin Klein" and "more flip flops than Bournemouth beach" gags that he deployed against the Labour leader before the summer break.
This time the prime minister's attempt to rile Sir Keir came in a provocative claim that in backing Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader he was guilty of condoning the activities of the IRA.
"This is a leader of the opposition who supported an IRA-condoning politician who wanted to get out of NATO, and now says absolutely nothing about it," said the prime minister.
If riling Sir Keir was the aim, it certainly worked.
The normally composed Sir Keir's pink cheeks were florid with rage. "I want him to take it back," he protested to the Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle.
"I worked for five years with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, as director of public prosecutions, prosecuting serious terrorism, working with the intelligence and security services, and the police. Can the prime minister have the decency to withdraw that comment?"
He didn't, not immediately, anyway. And only in a very half-hearted way when ordered to do so by an equally angry Sir Lindsay, who cut him short again.
This angry exchange - and the "Captain Hindsight" taunt - came as the prime minister repeatedly dodged or ignored questions by Sir Keir about the summer exams fiasco and instead went on the attack against the Labour leader.
Image: Keir Starmer was enraged by the PM's suggestion he 'supported an IRA-condoning politician'
For a while, it was hard to tell who was more cross, the Labour leader or the Speaker.
"Try and answer the questions being put to the prime minister!" barked Sir Lindsay. And for good measure, he waved his papers in a gesture at the PM and snapped: "Come on!"
What appears to rile the Speaker more than Mr Johnson's insults - which are, after all, part of the ritual of PMQs - is his repeated dodging of the questions put to him, particularly by the leader of the opposition.
All prime ministers do it in PMQs, of course, but the current PM doesn't even do it in a subtle way, as Tony Blair or David Cameron might have done.
The current prime minister and his Brexit allies demonstrably loathed Sir Lindsay's predecessor, John Bercow.
But relations between the PM and the current occupant of the Speaker's chair appear to be deteriorating already after only a few months as Sir Lindsay gives every sign of having lost patience with Mr Johnson.
Image: Sir Lindsay's relationship with the PM already appears to be on a downward slope
He strongly disapproves, for instance, of the PM's plans for televised news conferences.
"Statements should be made to the House first," Sir Lindsay said in a recent interview. "Once you've made that statement, by all means go and have a press conference. But do it after, not before."
Watching all the ill-tempered exchanges in this PMQs from a good vantage point on the Tory front bench below the gangway - looking directly at both the PM and leader of the opposition - was one very interested onlooker: the serene and seemingly unflappable chancellor, Rishi Sunak.
He smiled during the exchanges on furlough and the prime minister's hailing of his new "kickstart" scheme for young jobless, though he will have been irritated that Mr Johnson kept getting the name wrong and calling it "kickstarter".
Image: A leader in waiting? Rishi Sunak appeared cool and collected
When Gordon Brown was chancellor, he used to avoid attending PMQs, regarding it as a frivolous waste of time. But he was ordered to turn up by his closest aides, Ed Balls and Charlie Whelan, who told him: "You'll have to do it when you're prime minister."
When George Osborne was chancellor he sat so close to Mr Cameron that he was almost perched on his knee as he prompted his friend "Dave" and gave him all his best lines.
The always smiling Mr Sunak - current favourite to replace Mr Johnson as Tory leader - appears to have no intention of feeding the PM good lines and throughout PMQs was no doubt contemplating that one day it will be him answering the questions at noon on a Wednesday.
And on the evidence of his performance as chancellor so far, Mr Sunak is unlikely to dodge questions the way his boss does.
Boris Johnson may wish he was somewhere else during PMQs, but for would-be prime minister Mr Sunak his appearance and demeanour appeared to suggest he was thinking "I'm the chancellor… But Get Me Into No. 10!"