skynewspolitics--2020-09-27--Government tells English schools not to use anti-capitalist material for teaching

Schools in England have been instructed not to use material for teaching from groups that have said they believe capitalism should end .
A new government document lists anti-capitalist views alongside racism and the desire to overthrow democracy as `` an extreme political stance '' .
The Department for Education guidance , under the heading `` Plan your relationships , sex and health curriculum '' , says schools should not use resources produced by organisations that take such stances `` under any circumstances '' .
`` This is the case even if the material itself is not extreme , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or support of the organisation , '' it says .
The document says `` extreme political stances include , but are not limited to… a publicly stated desire to abolish or overthrow democracy , capitalism , or to end free and fair elections '' .
It goes on to describe other examples , such as opposition to the right of freedom of speech , the endorsement of illegal activities , and violent actions against people or property .
The guidance has been defended by the schools minister - who insisted curriculums would still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backgrounds '' - after it was criticised by figures including former shadow chancellor John McDonnell .
Mr McDonnell told The Guardian that it raised concerns over freedom of speech and reflected a `` drift '' towards authoritarianism .
`` On this basis it will be illegal to refer to large tracts of British history and politics including the history of British socialism , the Labour Party and trade unionism , all of which have at different times advocated the abolition of capitalism , '' the Labour MP told the newspaper .
`` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and this drift towards extreme Conservative authoritarianism is gaining pace and should worry anyone who believes that democracy requires freedom of speech and an educated populace . ''
Labour MP Beth Winter described the guidance as `` sinister and alarming '' in a post on Twitter .
`` And as @ johnmcdonnellMP points out , it is symptomatic of the growing authoritarianism at the heart of the Conservative Party , '' she said .
Dr Richard McNeil-Willson , a counter-extremism expert and research associate at the European University Institute in Florence , described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` Terms are vague and misleading , potentially directly targeting or indirectly implicating a huge number of civil society organisations in 'extremism ' , '' he said on Twitter .
`` The idea that orgs are 'extreme ' if they 'promote divisive or victim narratives ' nods towards several orgs tackling Islamophobia , violence & racism .
`` Anything challenging the status quo thus falls into this bracket , slyly targeting anyone raising issues of inequalities . ''
The Department of Education is understood to be keen to stress that schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impartiality and balanced treatment of political issues in the classroom .
A source in the department told Sky News the guidance was specific to the relationships , sex and health education curriculum .
In a statement , minister for school standards Nick Gibb said : `` Our new relationships , sex and health education ( RHSE ) guidance and training resources equip all schools to provide comprehensive teaching in these areas in an age-appropriate way .
`` These materials should give schools the confidence to construct a curriculum that reflects diversity of views @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' respect for others , understanding of healthy relationships , and ability to look after their own wellbeing . ''

Schools in England have been instructed not to use material for teaching from groups that have said they believe capitalism should end.
A new government document lists anti-capitalist views alongside racism and the desire to overthrow democracy as "an extreme political stance".
The Department for Education guidance, under the heading "Plan your relationships, sex and health curriculum", says schools should not use resources produced by organisations that take such stances "under any circumstances".
"This is the case even if the material itself is not extreme, as the use of it could imply endorsement or support of the organisation," it says.
Image: Labour MP and former shadow chancellor John McDonnell is among critics of the guidance
The document says "extreme political stances include, but are not limited to… a publicly stated desire to abolish or overthrow democracy, capitalism, or to end free and fair elections".
It goes on to describe other examples, such as opposition to the right of freedom of speech, the endorsement of illegal activities, and violent actions against people or property.
The guidance has been defended by the schools minister - who insisted curriculums would still reflect a "diversity of views and backgrounds" - after it was criticised by figures including former shadow chancellor John McDonnell.
Mr McDonnell told The Guardian that it raised concerns over freedom of speech and reflected a "drift" towards authoritarianism.
"On this basis it will be illegal to refer to large tracts of British history and politics including the history of British socialism, the Labour Party and trade unionism, all of which have at different times advocated the abolition of capitalism," the Labour MP told the newspaper.
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"This is another step in the culture war and this drift towards extreme Conservative authoritarianism is gaining pace and should worry anyone who believes that democracy requires freedom of speech and an educated populace."
Labour MP Beth Winter described the guidance as "sinister and alarming" in a post on Twitter.
"And as @johnmcdonnellMP points out, it is symptomatic of the growing authoritarianism at the heart of the Conservative Party," she said.
Image: The government says the guidance should 'equip all schools to provide comprehensive teaching in these areas in an age-appropriate way'
Dr Richard McNeil-Willson, a counter-extremism expert and research associate at the European University Institute in Florence, described the guidance as "pretty grim stuff".
"Terms are vague and misleading, potentially directly targeting or indirectly implicating a huge number of civil society organisations in 'extremism'," he said on Twitter.
"The idea that orgs are 'extreme' if they 'promote divisive or victim narratives' nods towards several orgs tackling Islamophobia, violence & racism.
"Anything challenging the status quo thus falls into this bracket, slyly targeting anyone raising issues of inequalities."
Image: Schools minister Nick Gibb said school curriculums would still reflect a 'diversity of views and backgrounds'
The Department of Education is understood to be keen to stress that schools should be aware of their duties around impartiality and balanced treatment of political issues in the classroom.
A source in the department told Sky News the guidance was specific to the relationships, sex and health education curriculum.
In a statement, minister for school standards Nick Gibb said: "Our new relationships, sex and health education (RHSE) guidance and training resources equip all schools to provide comprehensive teaching in these areas in an age-appropriate way.
"These materials should give schools the confidence to construct a curriculum that reflects diversity of views and backgrounds, whilst fostering all pupils' respect for others, understanding of healthy relationships, and ability to look after their own wellbeing."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-27--New Lib Dem leader vows to be 'voice of the nine million carers in our country'

Sir Ed Davey will speak of being a carer as a son , grandson and father in a highly personal first party conference speech as Liberal Democrat leader .
In his address to the Lib Dems ' autumn conference on Monday , Sir Ed will promise to be `` the voice of the nine million carers in our country '' .
Drawing upon the experiences of his own life , the 54-year-old father-of-two will offer his understanding of the struggles of other carers and declare : `` It 's you I 'm fighting for . ''
In August , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' fourth permanent leader to be elected in little more than five years .
It followed the party 's hugely disappointing general election result last year , when they won just 11 seats - one down on their 2017 result .
Sir Ed is expected to speak of how he nursed his mother during her battle against bone cancer by taking her `` tumblers of morphine for her agonising pain - before going off to school '' .
`` Coming home to look after her , helping her on and off the toilet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taking life day by day , because there was nothing else you could do .
`` And at the end , visiting her on a totally unsuitable dementia ward in my school uniform , alone by her bedside when she died . ''
After the death of his mother , when he was 15 , Sir Ed first went to live with his two older brothers before moving in with his maternal grandparents .
He will also speak in his conference address of caring for his grandmother prior to her death - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now care for his son John , who has a neurological condition .
Sir Ed will say : `` John is 12 .
He ca n't walk by himself .
He was 9 when he first managed to say 'daddy ' .
`` John needs 24/7 care - and probably always will .
`` And that 's my biggest challenge : John will be on this planet long after Emily and I have gone .
`` So we worry .
No one can possibly love him like we do , hold him like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fears are shared by so many parents .
Many not as fortunate as Emily and me . ''
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Sir Ed will also repeat his message to his party , following three `` deeply disappointing '' election results in a row , that `` too many people think we 're out of touch with what they want '' .
He will say : `` The answer is to listen to what people are really telling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sir Ed will call on his party to get more Liberal Democrats elected to English councils , the London Assembly , the Senedd in Wales and the Scottish Parliament in next May 's elections .
With opinion polls showing rising support for Scottish independence , Sir Ed will say of the latter : `` Elections often determine the future of our country , but these Scottish elections could well determine if our country has a future .
`` Once again , the forces of nationalism threaten to tear our family of nations apart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we get brilliant Liberal Democrat MSPs elected to Holyrood in May . ''

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has accused Boris Johnson of "failing" the British public in "one of our darkest hours".
In his first party conference speech since taking charge, Sir Ed attacked the government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, saying they "have just not risen to this challenge".
He said the pandemic was "showing the best of the British people", adding: "People's resilience, kindness and hard work make me absolutely sure we can get through this.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:24 'Johnson and Cummings ruling by diktat'
"But it's those qualities - demonstrated every day by people across Britain - that are in sharp contrast to how government ministers have responded to the pandemic."
The Lib Dem leader said the prime minister "refuses to take even the slightest responsibility for the chaos and harm his government has caused".
"Johnson's hero, Winston Churchill, said that the price of greatness is responsibility. It seems that's a price this prime minister isn't willing to pay," Sir Ed added.
He also spoke of being a carer as a son, grandson and father in what was a highly personal speech.
He promised to be "the voice of the nine million carers in our country".
Drawing upon the experiences of his own life, the 54-year-old father-of-two offered his understanding of the struggles of other carers and declared: "It's you I'm fighting for."
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Image: Sir Ed spoke of how he and his wife Emily care for their son
In August, the former cabinet minister became the Lib Dems' fourth permanent leader to be elected in little more than five years.
It followed the party's hugely disappointing general election result last year, when they won just 11 seats - one down on their 2017 result.
Sir Ed spoke of how he nursed his mother during her battle against bone cancer by taking her "tumblers of morphine for her agonising pain - before going off to school".
"Coming home to look after her, helping her on and off the toilet," he added.
"Taking life day by day, because there was nothing else you could do.
"And at the end, visiting her on a totally unsuitable dementia ward in my school uniform, alone by her bedside when she died."
After the death of his mother, when he was 15, Sir Ed first went to live with his two older brothers before moving in with his maternal grandparents.
He also spoke in his conference address of caring for his grandmother prior to her death - and also how he and his wife Emily now care for his son John, who has a neurological condition.
Sir Ed said: "John is 12. He can't walk by himself. He was nine when he first managed to say 'daddy'.
"John needs 24/7 care - and probably always will.
"And that's my biggest challenge: John will be on this planet long after Emily and I have gone.
"So we worry. No one can possibly love him like we do, hold him like we hold him.
"And our fears are shared by so many parents. Many not as fortunate as Emily and me."
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:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Sir Ed also repeated his message to his party, following three "deeply disappointing" election results in a row, that "too many people think we're out of touch with what they want".
He said: "The answer is to listen to what people are really telling us. And to change."
Sir Ed called on his party to get more Liberal Democrats elected to English councils, the London Assembly, the Senedd in Wales and the Scottish Parliament in next May's elections.
With opinion polls showing rising support for Scottish independence, Sir Ed said of the latter: "Elections often determine the future of our country, but these Scottish elections could well determine if our country has a future.
"Once again, the forces of nationalism threaten to tear our family of nations apart.
"So it is imperative that we get brilliant Liberal Democrat MSPs elected to Holyrood in May."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Govt facing calls for 10pm pub curfew to be urgently reviewed

Tighter social restrictions could be imposed if coronavirus infections continue to rise , a minister has suggested .
Helen Whately said `` we do n't want to '' bring in measures taking the UK back towards a second national lockdown but cautioned the government is keeping a `` constant eye '' on COVID-19 cases .
It comes amid a warning the new 10pm curfew for pubs , bars and restaurants could be `` doing more harm than good '' .
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates Andy Burnham , the mayor of Greater Manchester , called for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy brought in last week because it `` creates an incentive for people to gather in the street or more probably to gather in the home '' .
`` I do n't think this has been fully thought through , '' he told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme .
Ms Whately called scenes of people partying and not distancing after leaving pubs at 10pm `` worrying '' and when asked if further changes were on the way , pointed to the rules banning household mixing in parts of northwest and northeast England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Times that a `` total social lockdown '' could be enforced across much of northern Britain and London - with all pubs and restaurants ordered to shut for two weeks .
Households would also be banned from meeting each in other in any indoor location , but schools , shops and offices would remain open .
The newspaper quoted a senior government source as saying the nation and Conservative MPs were n't `` ready '' for such action but it `` will have to come '' .
Ms Whately did not deny the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have an opportunity - a choice - as a country to get this back under control again , '' she said .
`` This is our moment in time to make sure we 're doing social distancing and the rule of six .
That 's how we control it . ''
The latest figures released on Sunday show there were 5,693 new coronavirus cases in the UK and a further 17 people who died within 28 days of testing positive .
Higher daily infections were reported earlier in the week - including the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Experts warn case numbers will be higher given testing capacity has been dramatically increased compared with the spring .

Tighter social restrictions could be imposed if coronavirus infections continue to rise, a minister has suggested.
Helen Whately said "we don't want to" bring in measures taking the UK back towards a second national lockdown but cautioned the government was keeping a "constant eye" on COVID-19 cases.
It comes amid a warning the new 10pm curfew for pubs, bars and restaurants could be "doing more harm than good".
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Image: The latest figures show 5,693 new coronavirus cases reported on Sunday
Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, called for an "urgent review" of the policy brought in last week because it "creates an incentive for people to gather in the street or more probably to gather in the home".
"I don't think this has been fully thought through," he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.
Ms Whately called scenes of people partying and not distancing after leaving pubs at 10pm "worrying".
When asked if further changes were on the way, she pointed to the rules banning household mixing in parts of northwest and northeast England.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 'COVID has made nations seem selfish'
It follows a report in The Times that a "total social lockdown" could be enforced across much of northern Britain and London.
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Measures reportedly being considered include more restrictions on people from different households meeting indoors, and shutting pubs and restaurants - initially for two weeks.
Schools, shops and offices would remain open, according to the newspaper.
It quoted a senior government source as saying the nation and Conservative MPs weren't "ready" for such action but it "will have to come".
Ms Whately did not deny the plan is being considered.
"We have an opportunity - a choice - as a country to get this back under control again," she said.
"This is our moment in time to make sure we're doing social distancing and the rule of six. That's how we control it."
The latest figures released on Sunday show there were 5,693 new coronavirus cases in the UK and a further 17 people who died within 28 days of testing positive.
Higher daily infections were reported earlier in the week - including the highest on record across the country.
Experts warn case numbers will be higher given testing capacity has been dramatically increased compared with the spring.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--'Really clumsy': Labour MP apologises after urging activists not to 'let a good crisis go to waste'

Labour 's shadow education secretary has admitted it was `` hurtful and offensive '' to urge party activists not to `` let a good crisis go to waste '' .
Kate Green told Sky News that she `` really regretted '' making the comments at a virtual conference event discussing the coronavirus outbreak .
The party had already distanced itself from her comments , but the senior MP said for the first time on Monday that she had been `` really clumsy '' .
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates She told Kay Burley : `` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - hurtful and offensive to people who have suffered in this pandemic and I should n't have said it .
`` What I would say , and I think I all know this , is the crisis has really exposed the strain , the pressures in our public services , the dependence we all have on some of the lowest paid workers in health , in care , in transport , in food and logistics .
`` It 's really shown , I think , our schools , our care system is under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like a pandemic hits - we hope it wo n't again - but when we have this kind of crisis we realise that under-investment in our economy and in our public services has been a really false economy .
She continued : `` It was a really clumsy and awful way to say that what we need to do is learn from a crisis - learn what we were n't prepared for , what we could have been prepared for and had n't . ''
Ms Green added she would be `` absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if people thought her comments were an effort to get Labour to use the coronavirus crisis to criticise the Conservative government .
She was criticised by Conservative chair Amanda Milling , who said last week : `` Labour should n't be playing politics with people 's lives , they should be acting in the national interest . ''
And Boris Johnson used the comment to attack Labour at Prime Minister 's Questions , saying : `` The reality of the opposition position has been exposed - the cat is out of the bag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Labour Party - seeking to create political opportunity out of a crisis , out of the difficulties and dangers this country is going through , while we are taking the tough decisions to get the virus down , to keep our education system going and to keep our economy moving . ''
The MP for Stretford and Urmston in Greater Manchester was only promoted into Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer 's shadow cabinet a few months ago .
She replaced Rebecca Long-Bailey , who was fired after sharing an article that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Labour's shadow education secretary has admitted it was "hurtful and offensive" to urge party activists not to "let a good crisis go to waste".
Kate Green told Sky News that she "really regretted" making the comments at a virtual conference event discussing the coronavirus outbreak.
The party had already distanced itself from her comments, but the senior MP said for the first time on Monday that she had been "really clumsy".
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Image: She made the comments on rebuilding after the pandemic
She told Kay Burley: "It was absolutely the wrong thing to say - hurtful and offensive to people who have suffered in this pandemic and I shouldn't have said it.
"What I would say, and I think I all know this, is the crisis has really exposed the strain, the pressures in our public services, the dependence we all have on some of the lowest paid workers in health, in care, in transport, in food and logistics.
"It's really shown, I think, our schools, our care system is under huge pressure.
"And when something like a pandemic hits - we hope it won't again - but when we have this kind of crisis we realise that under-investment in our economy and in our public services has been a really false economy.
She continued: "It was a really clumsy and awful way to say that what we need to do is learn from a crisis - learn what we weren't prepared for, what we could have been prepared for and hadn't."
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Image: Ms Green said COVID-19 had 'exposed the strain' on public services
Ms Green added she would be "absolutely mortified" and "really ashamed" if people thought her comments were an effort to get Labour to use the coronavirus crisis to criticise the Conservative government.
She was criticised by Conservative chair Amanda Milling, who said last week: "Labour shouldn't be playing politics with people's lives, they should be acting in the national interest."
And Boris Johnson used the comment to attack Labour at Prime Minister's Questions, saying: "The reality of the opposition position has been exposed - the cat is out of the bag...
"That is the real approach of the Labour Party - seeking to create political opportunity out of a crisis, out of the difficulties and dangers this country is going through, while we are taking the tough decisions to get the virus down, to keep our education system going and to keep our economy moving."
Image: The PM accused Labour of trying to 'create political opportunity out of a crisis'
The MP for Stretford and Urmston in Greater Manchester was only promoted into Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer's shadow cabinet a few months ago.
She replaced Rebecca Long-Bailey, who was fired after sharing an article that "contained an antisemitic conspiracy theory".


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Parliament won't exempt own bars from 10pm curfew after backlash

Parliament has decided to restrict alcohol sales on its premises , after outrage when it emerged it did not have to follow the 10pm curfew imposed on pubs and bars .
Initially , The Times reported licenced premises on the estate could stay open after the deadline because they were counted as `` workplace canteens '' for politicians working late into the night .
But the news sparked a fierce backlash , with MPs describing the move as `` outrageous '' , `` nonsense '' and `` appalling '' .
George Freeman , a former Tory minister , warned : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brings parliament into disrepute . ''
And another source told Sky News it was `` tone deaf '' , given the new rule for hospitality businesses in England and Wales that came into force last week .
Parliamentary authorities then decided alcohol `` will not be sold after 10pm '' .
They added catering facilities will stay open later when debates are still going later `` to serve food for those still working '' .
There are many bars dotted around the estate for Westminster workers , but they closed when the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported that five - the Members ' Dining Room , Adjournment , Smoking Room , Terrace Pavilion and Pugin Room - have started serving drinks again .
Monday is the first time parliament has sat late since the new restrictions for bars came into force , so it is understood no alcohol has yet been sold yet on the estate .
In the House of Lords , one venue that served drink and food after 10pm has decided to cease in line with the curfew .

Parliament has decided to restrict alcohol sales on its premises, after outrage when it emerged it did not have to follow the 10pm curfew imposed on pubs and bars.
Initially, The Times reported licenced premises on the estate could stay open after the deadline because they were counted as "workplace canteens" for politicians working late into the night.
But the news sparked a fierce backlash, with MPs describing the move as "outrageous", "nonsense" and "appalling".
George Freeman, a former Tory minister, warned: "This sort of thing is what brings parliament into disrepute."
And another source told Sky News it was "tone deaf", given the new rule for hospitality businesses in England and Wales that came into force last week.
Image: Bars are now required to shut at 10pm sharp
Parliamentary authorities then decided alcohol "will not be sold after 10pm".
They added catering facilities will stay open later when debates are still going later "to serve food for those still working".
There are many bars dotted around the estate for Westminster workers, but they closed when the coronavirus pandemic broke out.
However The Times reported that five - the Members' Dining Room, Adjournment, Smoking Room, Terrace Pavilion and Pugin Room - have started serving drinks again.
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Monday is the first time parliament has sat late since the new restrictions for bars came into force, so it is understood no alcohol has yet been sold yet on the estate.
In the House of Lords, no venue has sold alcohol after 10pm since the new rules came in last week.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Tory MPs threaten restrictions rebellion as Johnson promises post-COVID jobs revolution

Boris Johnson is launching a skills revolution to tackle coronavirus job losses , while battling against a Tory backlash over further COVID-19 restrictions .
In a move aimed at creating a jobs recovery , the prime minister plans to expand post-18 education and training to help people made redundant retrain for a new job .
Mr Johnson is promising a £2.5 billion Lifetime Skills Guarantee , which he says will give adults without an A-level or equivalent qualification the chance to take a free vocational college course .
But while the embattled PM unveils his jobs plan , senior ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 80 rebel Tory MPs not to inflict a humiliating Commons defeat on new lockdown restrictions .
And the Education Secretary Gavin Williamson - branded the `` Invisible Man '' by Labour - is facing a bruising showdown with MPs as he makes a Commons statement on the lockdown of thousands of students forced to self-isolate on university campuses .
In his speech announcing the new skills guarantee , the prime minister will say : `` As the Chancellor has said , we can not , alas , save every job .
`` What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skills to find and create new and better jobs .
So my message today is that at every stage of your life , this government will help you get the skills you need . ''
He will add : `` We 're transforming the foundations of the skills system so that everyone has the chance to train and retrain . ''
But behind the scenes at Westminster , leaders of the Tory backbencher rebellion , who are demanding Commons votes on new lockdown restrictions , were summoned to talks with senior ministers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs are prepared to back an amendment to the Coronavirus Act , tabled by the chairman of the Tory backbench 1922 committee Graham Brady , demanding debates and votes on all new COVID-19 curbs .
The rebels ' spokesman , former Brexit minister Steve Baker , met Health Secretary Matt Hancock , Government chief whip Mark Spencer and Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg for crisis talks aimed at hammering out a compromise .
After the meeting , Mr Baker said it was `` cordial and constructive '' and that further talks were planned .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ reach a satisfactory agreement , '' he said .
One option being discussed is thought to be a plan for MPs to be granted a retrospective vote on new coronavirus powers five sitting days after they are laid in parliament as opposed to the current four weeks .
Hinting at a deal during a Commons debate in which Tory MPs vented their fury over the lack of scrutiny , Mr Hancock told MPs : `` The question is how we can have the appropriate level of scrutiny whilst also making sure that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Senior ministers , however , are hoping the Commons Speaker , Sir Lindsay Hoyle , will rule the Brady amendment out of order and save the government from the threat of a hugely embarrassing defeat .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In an alarming development for the prime minister , the Tory backbench rebellion includes a Red Wall revolt over the latest coronavirus crackdown , by MPs representing seats snatched from Labour at the December general election .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ County Durham - Jacob Young , Matt Vickers , Simon Clarke , Peter Gibson and Paul Howell - have written a hard-hitting letter to Mr Hancock and council leaders .
In the letter , they claim national measures like the rule of six and the 10pm curfew on pubs should be given more time to `` bed in '' before further measures are imposed .
`` In particular , a ban on household mixing as winter approaches would in practice condemn thousands of local people to loneliness and isolation - even with mitigating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
North West Durham MP Rick Holden told the Daily Mail his constituents wanted to know when they would be freed from the latest onerous restrictions , which were requested by local authorities in the region .
`` People are incredibly irritated by the restrictions and they are a disaster for the hospitality industry , '' he said .
`` They will grudgingly abide by it in the short term , but they want to know where the end is , and they certainly do n't want any more . ''
Ahead of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdowns , Labour 's Shadow Education Secretary Kate Green said : `` After days of silence , this statement is a chance for the education secretary to end his Invisible Man act and begin to get to grips with the situation .
`` None of this was unforeseeable .
Labour and others have warned that campuses would need access to testing .
But - just as with the exams fiasco over the summer - the education secretary has created chaos through his incompetence and failure to act .
`` Gavin Williamson must set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these problems and put young people and parents ' minds at rest . ''

Boris Johnson is launching a skills revolution to tackle coronavirus job losses, while battling against a Tory backlash over further COVID-19 restrictions.
In a move aimed at creating a jobs recovery, the prime minister plans to expand post-18 education and training to help people made redundant retrain for a new job.
Mr Johnson is promising a £2.5 billion Lifetime Skills Guarantee, which he says will give adults without an A-level or equivalent qualification the chance to take a free vocational college course.
But while the embattled PM unveils his jobs plan, senior ministers are desperately trying to persuade up to 80 rebel Tory MPs not to inflict a humiliating Commons defeat on new lockdown restrictions.
And the Education Secretary Gavin Williamson - branded the "Invisible Man" by Labour - is facing a bruising showdown with MPs as he makes a Commons statement on the lockdown of thousands of students forced to self-isolate on university campuses.
In his speech announcing the new skills guarantee, the prime minister said: "As the chancellor has said, we cannot, alas, save every job.
"What we can do is give people the skills to find and create new and better jobs. So my message today is that at every stage of your life, this government will help you get the skills you need."
He added: "We're transforming the foundations of the skills system so that everyone has the chance to train and retrain."
Stephen van Rooyen, Sky's CEO for the UK and Europe, has also been appointed as the new chair of the Skills and Productivity Board - charged with providing expert advice to the government.
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But behind the scenes at Westminster, leaders of the Tory backbencher rebellion, who are demanding Commons votes on new lockdown restrictions, were summoned to talks with senior ministers.
It is claimed up to 80 Conservative MPs are prepared to back an amendment to the Coronavirus Act, tabled by the chairman of the Tory backbench 1922 committee Graham Brady, demanding debates and votes on all new COVID-19 curbs.
The rebels' spokesman, former Brexit minister Steve Baker, met Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Government chief whip Mark Spencer and Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg for crisis talks aimed at hammering out a compromise.
After the meeting, Mr Baker said it was "cordial and constructive" and that further talks were planned. "I hope and expect we will reach a satisfactory agreement," he said.
One option being discussed is thought to be a plan for MPs to be granted a retrospective vote on new coronavirus powers five sitting days after they are laid in parliament as opposed to the current four weeks.
Hinting at a deal during a Commons debate in which Tory MPs vented their fury over the lack of scrutiny, Mr Hancock told MPs: "The question is how we can have the appropriate level of scrutiny whilst also making sure that we can move fast where that is necessary."
Senior ministers, however, are hoping the Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, will rule the Brady amendment out of order and save the government from the threat of a hugely embarrassing defeat.
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In an alarming development for the prime minister, the Tory backbench rebellion includes a Red Wall revolt over the latest coronavirus crackdown, by MPs representing seats snatched from Labour at the December general election.
A group of Conservative MPs from Teesside and County Durham - Jacob Young, Matt Vickers, Simon Clarke, Peter Gibson and Paul Howell - have written a hard-hitting letter to Mr Hancock.
In the letter, they claim national measures like the rule of six and the 10pm curfew on pubs should be given more time to "bed in" before further measures are imposed.
"In particular, a ban on household mixing as winter approaches would in practice condemn thousands of local people to loneliness and isolation - even with mitigating measures in place," they wrote.
North West Durham MP Rick Holden told the Daily Mail his constituents wanted to know when they would be freed from the latest onerous restrictions, which were requested by local authorities in the region.
"People are incredibly irritated by the restrictions and they are a disaster for the hospitality industry," he said. "They will grudgingly abide by it in the short term, but they want to know where the end is, and they certainly don't want any more."
Ahead of Mr Williamson's Commons statement on student lockdowns, Labour's Shadow Education Secretary Kate Green said: "After days of silence, this statement is a chance for the education secretary to end his Invisible Man act and begin to get to grips with the situation.
"None of this was unforeseeable. Labour and others have warned that campuses would need access to testing. But - just as with the exams fiasco over the summer - the education secretary has created chaos through his incompetence and failure to act.
"Gavin Williamson must set out what he is doing to resolve these problems and put young people and parents' minds at rest."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Government accused of trying to 'terrify' public over coronavirus

The prime minister and government officials have been accused of trying to `` terrify '' the British public over coronavirus .
Conservative MPs voiced their disquiet with aspects of Boris Johnson 's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in a lengthy Commons debate .
It comes ahead of a looming showdown over the government 's powers to tackle the coronavirus pandemic .
MPs will vote on Wednesday on whether to renew the powers in the Coronavirus Act , with Downing Street battling to avoid what would be a damaging rebellion on the issue .
The PM is coming under pressure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debating and voting on new coronavirus restrictions .
An amendment put forward by Sir Graham Brady , chairman of the 1922 Committee of backbench Tory MPs , has gained the support of dozens of Conservatives .
More than 50 Tories have signalled they could rebel against the government if the amendment is put to a vote , which would be enough to hand Mr Johnson a high-profile defeat if opposition parties all throw their collective weight behind it .
Ministers held talks with potential rebels on Wednesday evening in a bid to ward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock , chief whip Mark Spencer and Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg met with them to try and address their concerns .
Former minister Steve Baker , who has given his backing to Sir Graham 's amendment , described the gathering as `` cordial and constructive meeting '' .
`` I hope and expect we will reach a satisfactory agreement , '' he said .
Mr Hancock told MPs in the Commons earlier that ministers were `` looking at further ways to ensure the House can be properly involved in the process in advance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he agreed that parliament should have the `` appropriate level of scrutiny '' , but this needed to be balanced with the need to ensure the government can `` move fast where that is necessary '' .
A senior government source has told Sky 's political editor Beth Rigby that Number 10 is confident the Brady amendment will not be selected by the Speaker for a vote .
`` We 've always said we 're happy to give more time to debate and discuss these things .
It 's now clear the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so will not be voted on , '' they said .
But a senior Tory told Rigby : `` The decision is the Speaker 's and I 'm not sure he 'll share that view .
If he 's clear there 's a majority for it ( which there is ) , he 'll try to allow the House to vote on it . ''
Either way , Monday 's Commons debate demonstrated that there is palpable unhappiness among some Conservative MPs around elements of the government 's coronavirus response .
Sir Desmond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if Mr Johnson had been `` abducted by Dr Strangelove and reprogrammed by the SAGE [ Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ] over to the dark side '' , a reference to the 1964 satirical film about fears of a nuclear conflict during the Cold War .
He hit out at the government 's chief scientific and medical advisers for warning that 200 or more people could die each day by the middle of November if no action was taken to drive down the rate of infection .
`` It was project fear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the British people , as if they have n't been terrified enough , '' Sir Desmond claimed , adding that the government 's response during the pandemic has been `` disproportionate '' .
`` By decree , it has interfered in our private lives , and our family lives , telling us who we may meet , when we may meet them and what we must wear when we meet them , '' he said .
Telford MP Lucy Allan also criticised the briefing , saying it had `` undermined public trust '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without explaining the chances of it happening .
Ms Allan asked : `` Was it designed to instil fear in order to control the public ?
Is that how we want to govern ? ''
Simon Clarke , another former minister , said a second national lockdown would be `` untenable '' and `` wrong '' , warning it would exact a `` stark and serious '' toll .
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Greg Clark , who is chairman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said ministers `` must embark on a clearly different course '' by next spring .
`` We ca n't forever live in circumstances in which the way that we live our lives can be upended without notice , '' he said .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker South Dorset MP Richard Drax echoed this , telling the Commons : `` A major rethink is needed and fast before we do irreparable harm .
`` This disease , like any other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether we like it or not - and we must learn to live with it . ''
Christchurch MP Sir Christopher Chope accused the government of `` covert mission creep '' over its use of secondary legislation to expand coronavirus regulations , while Nusrat Ghani , MP for Wealden , said she had `` huge concerns about how the government wants to progress the extension of COVID laws going forward '' .

The prime minister and government officials have been accused of trying to "terrify" the British public over coronavirus.
Conservative MPs voiced their disquiet with aspects of Boris Johnson's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in a lengthy Commons debate.
It comes ahead of a looming showdown over the government's powers to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 PM: New restrictions could last 'six months'
MPs will vote on Wednesday on whether to renew the powers in the Coronavirus Act, with Downing Street battling to avoid what would be a damaging rebellion on the issue.
The PM is coming under pressure to give parliament more of a role in debating and voting on new coronavirus restrictions.
An amendment put forward by Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee of backbench Tory MPs, has gained the support of dozens of Conservatives.
More than 50 Tories have signalled they could rebel against the government if the amendment is put to a vote, which would be enough to hand Mr Johnson a high-profile defeat if opposition parties all throw their collective weight behind it.
Ministers held talks with potential rebels on Wednesday evening in a bid to ward off a revolt.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock, chief whip Mark Spencer and Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg met with them to try and address their concerns.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 COVID rules: 'This is how liberty dies'
Former minister Steve Baker, who has given his backing to Sir Graham's amendment, described the gathering as a "cordial and constructive meeting".
"I hope and expect we will reach a satisfactory agreement," he said.
Mr Hancock told MPs in the Commons earlier that ministers were "looking at further ways to ensure the House can be properly involved in the process in advance where possible".
The health secretary said he agreed that parliament should have the "appropriate level of scrutiny", but this needed to be balanced with the need to ensure the government can "move fast where that is necessary".
A senior government source has told Sky's political editor Beth Rigby that Number 10 is confident the Brady amendment will not be selected by the Speaker for a vote.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:30 'We'll get through this winter together'
"We've always said we're happy to give more time to debate and discuss these things. It's now clear the Brady amendment is out of scope and so will not be voted on," they said.
But a senior Tory told Rigby: "The decision is the Speaker's and I'm not sure he'll share that view. If he's clear there's a majority for it (which there is), he'll try to allow the House to vote on it."
Either way, Monday's Commons debate demonstrated that there is palpable unhappiness among some Conservative MPs around elements of the government's coronavirus response.
Sir Desmond Swayne, a former minister, questioned if Mr Johnson had been "abducted by Dr Strangelove and reprogrammed by the SAGE [Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies] over to the dark side", a reference to the 1964 satirical film about fears of a nuclear conflict during the Cold War.
He hit out at the government's chief scientific and medical advisers for warning that 200 or more people could die each day by the middle of November if no action was taken to drive down the rate of infection.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 UK could face 200-plus deaths per day in November
"It was project fear, it was an attempt to terrify the British people, as if they haven't been terrified enough," Sir Desmond claimed, adding that the government's response during the pandemic has been "disproportionate".
"By decree, it has interfered in our private lives, and our family lives, telling us who we may meet, when we may meet them and what we must wear when we meet them," he said.
Telford MP Lucy Allan also criticised the briefing, saying it had "undermined public trust" by "pushing" a worst-case scenario without explaining the chances of it happening.
Ms Allan asked: "Was it designed to instil fear in order to control the public? Is that how we want to govern?"
Simon Clarke, another former minister, said a second national lockdown would be "untenable" and "wrong", warning it would exact a "stark and serious" toll.
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:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Greg Clark, who is chairman of the Commons Science and Technology Committee, said ministers "must embark on a clearly different course" by next spring.
"We can't forever live in circumstances in which the way that we live our lives can be upended without notice," he said.
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South Dorset MP Richard Drax echoed this, telling the Commons: "A major rethink is needed and fast before we do irreparable harm.
"This disease, like any other disease, is here to stay - whether we like it or not - and we must learn to live with it."
Christchurch MP Sir Christopher Chope accused the government of "covert mission creep" over its use of secondary legislation to expand coronavirus regulations, while Nusrat Ghani, MP for Wealden, said she had "huge concerns about how the government wants to progress the extension of COVID laws going forward".


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Household mixing in any setting made illegal in North East as cases continue to rise 'sharply'

Household mixing in any setting is to be made illegal in large parts of the north east of England as the number of coronavirus cases `` continues to rise sharply '' .
It was already illegal for two households to mix indoors or in the garden , but until now it was only guidance that they should not meet in public venues such as restaurants and pubs .
It means people will be breaking the law if they meet up with friends in those premises .
Addressing MPs in the Commons , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the existing COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of local councils .
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates The beefing up of coronavirus restrictions will take effect from midnight on Wednesday and will apply to Northumberland , Newcastle , North and South Tyneside , Gateshead , Sunderland and County Durham .
It will be enforceable by law , with fines for those found to be flouting the rules .
`` The incident rate across the area is now over 100 cases per 100,000 , '' Mr Hancock said .
`` We know that a large number of these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside the home .
`` And so at the request of the local councils , with whom we have been working closely , we will introduce legal restrictions on indoor mixing between households in any setting .
`` We do not take these steps lightly .
`` But we must take them and take them now because we know that swift action is more likely to bring the virus under control .
`` The quicker we can get this virus under control , the quicker we can restore the freedoms we all enjoy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country . ''
The announcement comes as new local lockdowns , further restrictions and new fines came into force across parts of the UK .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A minister suggested earlier that tighter social restrictions could be imposed if infections continue to rise .
People in England are now legally required to self-isolate if they test positive for COVID-19 or are told to do so by the test and trace service .
Those who do not comply risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £10,000 for repeat offenders or serious breaches .
Anyone who tests positive and then knowingly provides false information about their close contacts will also be fined .
Health and social care minister Helen Whately told Sky News that `` we do n't want to '' bring in measures taking the UK back towards a second national lockdown but cautioned the government was keeping a `` constant eye '' on cases .
It follows a report in The Times that a `` total social lockdown '' could be enforced across much of northern Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include more restrictions on people from different households meeting indoors , and shutting pubs and restaurants - initially for two weeks .
Schools , shops and offices would remain open , according to the newspaper .
It quoted a senior government source as saying the nation and Conservative MPs were n't `` ready '' for such action but it `` will have to come '' .
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ms Whately did not deny the plan is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - a choice - as a country to get this back under control again , '' she told Kay Burley .
`` This is our moment in time to make sure we 're doing social distancing and the rule of six .
That 's how we control it . ''
Three more council areas in South Wales went into local lockdown from 6pm on Monday - Neath Port Talbot , Torfaen and the Vale of Glamorgan .
Bans on households mixing came into force in Wigan , Stockport , Blackpool and Leeds on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ places across large parts of north west England , West Yorkshire , the North East and the Midlands , as well as in areas of west Scotland .
It means that an estimated 17.8 million people across the UK are now living under additional COVID-19 measures , on top of those already announced by the prime minister Boris Johnson .
A recent nationwide change has been the imposition of a 10pm curfew for pubs , bars and restaurants .
But ministers are coming under growing pressure to review the rule , amid criticism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streets en masse when venues close .
Labour is calling for a `` rapid '' review of the curfew .
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has told Sky News he fears the rule could be proving `` counterproductive '' in the fight against the virus .
`` If this is n't doing what it intended to do , then surely it 's right to adjust it or even remove it altogether , '' he said .

Household mixing in any setting is to be made illegal in large parts of the north east of England as the number of coronavirus cases "continues to rise sharply".
It was already illegal for two households to mix indoors or in the garden, but until now it was only guidance that they should not meet in public venues such as restaurants and pubs.
It means people will be breaking the law if they meet up with friends in those premises.
Addressing MPs in the Commons, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the existing COVID-19 measures were being tightened at the request of local councils.
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:36 'Government has eye on tougher COVID measures'
The beefing up of coronavirus restrictions will take effect from midnight on Wednesday and will apply to Northumberland, Newcastle, North and South Tyneside, Gateshead, Sunderland and County Durham.
It will be enforceable by law, with fines for those found to be flouting the rules.
"The incident rate across the area is now over 100 cases per 100,000," Mr Hancock said.
"We know that a large number of these infections are taking place in indoor settings outside the home.
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"And so at the request of the local councils, with whom we have been working closely, we will introduce legal restrictions on indoor mixing between households in any setting.
"We do not take these steps lightly.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:56 Scientist: Non-vulnerable should be able to mix
"But we must take them and take them now because we know that swift action is more likely to bring the virus under control.
"The quicker we can get this virus under control, the quicker we can restore the freedoms we all enjoy in the North East and across the country."
The announcement comes as new local lockdowns, further restrictions and new fines came into force across parts of the UK.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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A minister suggested earlier that tighter social restrictions could be imposed if infections continue to rise.
People in England are now legally required to self-isolate if they test positive for COVID-19 or are told to do so by the test and trace service.
Those who do not comply risk being fined £1,000, increasing up to £10,000 for repeat offenders or serious breaches.
Anyone who tests positive and then knowingly provides false information about their close contacts will also be fined.
Health and social care minister Helen Whately told Sky News that "we don't want to" bring in measures taking the UK back towards a second national lockdown but cautioned the government was keeping a "constant eye" on cases.
It follows a report in The Times that a "total social lockdown" could be enforced across much of northern Britain and London.
Measures reportedly being considered include more restrictions on people from different households meeting indoors, and shutting pubs and restaurants - initially for two weeks.
Schools, shops and offices would remain open, according to the newspaper.
It quoted a senior government source as saying the nation and Conservative MPs weren't "ready" for such action but it "will have to come".
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ms Whately did not deny the plan is being considered.
"We have an opportunity - a choice - as a country to get this back under control again," she told Kay Burley.
"This is our moment in time to make sure we're doing social distancing and the rule of six. That's how we control it."
Three more council areas in South Wales went into local lockdown from 6pm on Monday - Neath Port Talbot, Torfaen and the Vale of Glamorgan.
Bans on households mixing came into force in Wigan, Stockport, Blackpool and Leeds on Saturday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:26 Rantzen: 'Care home visits important'
Stricter rules are already in places across large parts of north west England, West Yorkshire, the North East and the Midlands, as well as in areas of west Scotland.
It means that an estimated 17.8 million people across the UK are now living under additional COVID-19 measures, on top of those already announced by the prime minister Boris Johnson.
A recent nationwide change has been the imposition of a 10pm curfew for pubs, bars and restaurants.
But ministers are coming under growing pressure to review the rule, amid criticism it is leading to people filling the streets en masse when venues close.
Labour is calling for a "rapid" review of the curfew.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has told Sky News he fears the rule could be proving "counterproductive" in the fight against the virus.
"If this isn't doing what it intended to do, then surely it's right to adjust it or even remove it altogether," he said.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--University students expected to be allowed to return home for Christmas

Downing Street has said it expects university students will be allowed to return home for Christmas .
Dozens of institutions have reported coronavirus outbreaks in recent days , with hundreds of confirmed cases of COVID-19 .
According to Sky News research , at least 33 universities in the UK now have confirmed cases of coronavirus , while another two have suspected cases .
More than 717 cases have been identified among students and staff since universities reopened , according to data collected up to 28 September .
This has resulted in thousands of students having to self-isolate , including around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Students at that university will be given financial compensation of more than a week 's rent , its vice-chancellor has said .
The outbreaks have raised the prospect of students potentially being asked to stay on campus over Christmas to stop the spread of the disease .
But the prime minister 's official spokesman said on Monday : `` We would expect all students to be able to go home at Christmas . ''
He said students were subject to the same rules as the wider population in the areas in which they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the same as those for the rest of the public , '' the spokesman told reporters at a regular Westminster briefing .
`` Universities can obviously issue advice to their students and I believe that 's what has been happening in recent days . ''
The University and College Union , which represents academics and university staff , has called on Boris Johnson to make sure that online tuition `` becomes the norm '' .
Some institutions have adopted a `` stubborn position '' over insisting upon in-person teaching because they depend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union claimed .
In a letter to the PM , UCU general secretary Jo Grady said the union was `` not prepared to take chances with the health of students , our members and the communities they serve '' .
`` It is clear that remote learning should be the default for campus life while we are in this precarious position with the virus , '' she said .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' However , what we are seeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind the government 's current sectoral guidance , with all the ambiguities associated with the term 'blended learning ' . ''
She added that students should be allowed to leave their accommodation and go back home `` without fear of financial penalty '' .
`` We can not have students forced to quarantine in halls of residence with no familiar support network , or staff forced to carry out work on site that could be conducted more safely from home , '' Ms Grady said .
The president of the National Union of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those self-isolating were being `` trapped '' in `` disgusting conditions '' and missing out on food deliveries .
`` I 've heard from other students who , they 've turned up with an amount of toilet roll , told with no notice that they 're going to be locked down and wondering where the next roll of toilet roll is coming from , '' Larissa Kennedy told ITV 's Good Morning Britain .
`` It just feels like these are disgusting conditions for students to have been trapped in . ''
While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health guidance , Ms Kennedy questioned the legality of keeping students `` cooped up in that way without that access to the things that they need '' .
Manchester Metropolitan University has said it can not stop students under lockdown leaving their accommodation , but that it expects them to follow the guidance around self-isolation .
The Office for Students , the higher education regulator in England , has promised to investigate if universities `` have not taken all reasonable steps to protect standards or where quality is slipping for groups of students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students had `` rights as consumers '' and could complain to their university , the Office of the Independent Adjudicator and the OfS .
Asked about the prospect of partial tuition fee refunds , she added : `` We would expect a university to consider the circumstances for each student rather than to adopt a blanket policy that refunds are not available . ''

Downing Street has said it expects university students will be allowed to return home for Christmas.
Dozens of institutions have reported coronavirus outbreaks in recent days, with hundreds of confirmed cases of COVID-19.
According to Sky News research, at least 33 universities in the UK now have confirmed cases of coronavirus, while another two have suspected cases.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:45 Calls to get students home by Christmas
More than 717 cases have been identified among students and staff since universities reopened, according to data collected up to 28 September.
This has resulted in thousands of students having to self-isolate, including around 1,700 students at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Students at that university will be given financial compensation of more than a week's rent, its vice-chancellor has said.
The outbreaks have raised the prospect of students potentially being asked to stay on campus over Christmas to stop the spread of the disease.
But the prime minister's official spokesman said on Monday: "We would expect all students to be able to go home at Christmas."
He said students were subject to the same rules as the wider population in the areas in which they live.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 Manchester students: First year 'kind of ruined'
"The rules for students are the same as those for the rest of the public," the spokesman told reporters at a regular Westminster briefing.
"Universities can obviously issue advice to their students and I believe that's what has been happening in recent days."
The University and College Union, which represents academics and university staff, has called on Boris Johnson to make sure that online tuition "becomes the norm".
Some institutions have adopted a "stubborn position" over insisting upon in-person teaching because they depend on rent from student accommodation, the union claimed.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 'It's quite scary': Freshers students on COVID-19
In a letter to the PM, UCU general secretary Jo Grady said the union was "not prepared to take chances with the health of students, our members and the communities they serve".
"It is clear that remote learning should be the default for campus life while we are in this precarious position with the virus," she said.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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"However, what we are seeing on the ground is university employers hiding behind the government's current sectoral guidance, with all the ambiguities associated with the term 'blended learning'."
She added that students should be allowed to leave their accommodation and go back home "without fear of financial penalty".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:36 University life in isolation
"We cannot have students forced to quarantine in halls of residence with no familiar support network, or staff forced to carry out work on site that could be conducted more safely from home," Ms Grady said.
The president of the National Union of Students (NUS) has claimed that those self-isolating were being "trapped" in "disgusting conditions" and missing out on food deliveries.
"I've heard from other students who, they've turned up with an amount of toilet roll, told with no notice that they're going to be locked down and wondering where the next roll of toilet roll is coming from," Larissa Kennedy told ITV's Good Morning Britain.
"It just feels like these are disgusting conditions for students to have been trapped in."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:36 Virus-hit students to get 'significant' cash
While she said that people should follow public health guidance, Ms Kennedy questioned the legality of keeping students "cooped up in that way without that access to the things that they need".
Manchester Metropolitan University has said it cannot stop students under lockdown leaving their accommodation, but that it expects them to follow the guidance around self-isolation.
The Office for Students, the higher education regulator in England, has promised to investigate if universities "have not taken all reasonable steps to protect standards or where quality is slipping for groups of students".
OfS president Nicola Dandridge said students had "rights as consumers" and could complain to their university, the Office of the Independent Adjudicator and the OfS.
Asked about the prospect of partial tuition fee refunds, she added: "We would expect a university to consider the circumstances for each student rather than to adopt a blanket policy that refunds are not available."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Five new coronavirus laws and fines that government slipped out

Several new coronavirus rules , laws and punishments have been revealed by the government .
Ministers updated the legislation which gives police the legal powers to ensure people are following the emergency measures .
But among the changes widely known about , such as limiting the number of people who can gather to six , there were also some new additions .
Sky News takes a look at some of the other announcements slipped out overnight : Anyone who `` contravenes '' a requirement to self-isolate without a `` reasonable excuse '' will get a £4,000 fine for their first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is their second or third .
That is if , while leaving isolation , they may or do come into close contact with another person .
Or if they are `` reckless as to the consequences of that close contact '' .
2 .
Maliciously forcing someone into isolation will see you hit with a £1,000 penalty One of the concerns some had about contact tracing was that people who test positive and are asked for their close contacts could maliciously give someone 's name to force them into isolation , too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a £1,000 fine .
The new regulations state anyone who knowingly `` gives false information '' about their close contacts `` commits an offence '' .
Any staff isolating must tell their employer when they started and will be released from their duty .
If they do n't , they will get a fixed penalty notice of £50 .
This is because the government wants there to be a record of anyone isolating telling their employer , so that it is easier to ensure firms do not force workers to come into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bars , cafes and restaurants must `` take all reasonable measures '' to stop singing on the premises by groups of more than six or any dancing .
Exemptions apply at weddings and civil partnerships - but only to the happy couple .
And owners of the same types of businesses have also been banned from playing music on the premises louder than 85 decibels .
Performances of live music are excluded from the duty .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock tried to quell anger among some Tory MPs by saying he has to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' to contain the spread of coronavirus .
But civil liberties campaign group Big Brother Watch have condemned the way the changes were introduced , saying : `` Yet again , this was imposed without scrutiny from parliament .
Where will it end ?
`` Government can not and should not legislate every part of our lives . ''
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Several new coronavirus rules, laws and punishments have been revealed by the government.
Ministers updated the legislation which gives police the legal powers to ensure people are following the emergency measures.
But among the changes widely known about, such as limiting the number of people who can gather to six, there were also some new additions.
Sky News takes a look at some of the other announcements slipped out overnight:
1. 'Recklessly' leaving isolation gets you a £4,000 fine
Anyone who "contravenes" a requirement to self-isolate without a "reasonable excuse" will get a £4,000 fine for their first offence - rising to £10,000 if it is their second or third.
That is if, while leaving isolation, they may or do come into close contact with another person.
Or if they are "reckless as to the consequences of that close contact".
2. Maliciously forcing someone into isolation will see you hit with a £1,000 penalty
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One of the concerns some had about contact tracing was that people who test positive and are asked for their close contacts could maliciously give someone's name to force them into isolation, too.
That will now be illegal - punishable by a £1,000 fine.
The new regulations state anyone who knowingly "gives false information" about their close contacts "commits an offence".
Image: Matt Hancock says he has to 'be able to move at pace' to contain the COVID-19 spread
3. Tell work you're isolating or incur a £50 charge
Any staff isolating must tell their employer when they started and will be released from their duty.
If they don't, they will get a fixed penalty notice of £50.
This is because the government wants there to be a record of anyone isolating telling their employer, so that it is easier to ensure firms do not force workers to come into the office.
4. Hospitality forced to stop people singing and dancing
Owners of pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants must "take all reasonable measures" to stop singing on the premises by groups of more than six or any dancing.
Exemptions apply at weddings and civil partnerships - but only to the happy couple.
5. Music volume limited
And owners of the same types of businesses have also been banned from playing music on the premises louder than 85 decibels.
Performances of live music are excluded from the duty.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock tried to quell anger among some Tory MPs by saying he has to "be able to move at pace" to contain the spread of coronavirus.
But civil liberties campaign group Big Brother Watch have condemned the way the changes were introduced, saying: "Yet again, this was imposed without scrutiny from parliament. Where will it end?
"Government cannot and should not legislate every part of our lives."
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skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Joe Biden nominated for Nobel Peace Prize by Labour MP

Joe Biden has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Labour MP Chris Bryant , Sky News can reveal .
The Democratic presidential candidate now joins President Donald Trump on the list of nominees as the race for the White House enters its final stages .
Mr Bryant , a member of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee and chair of the Standards and Privileges Committee , said Mr Biden deserved to be nominated for his dedication to argument and political debate during a turbulent time in American politics .
He added : `` When American cities have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pitched against citizen , Joe has been a calming influence to bear .
`` When others have resorted to violent solutions , he has argued that the best force is the force of argument because guns can stop a heart but well-placed words can change many hearts and many hearts can change the world . ''
The nomination comes just ahead of the first presidential debate between the candidates .
Peace prize nominations can be made by members of governments and international courts of law , university chancellors , professors of social science @ @ @ @ @ @ @ theology ; leaders of peace research institutes and institutes of foreign affairs .
The prize will be awarded on 9 October this year and is decided by a committee .

Joe Biden has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Labour MP Chris Bryant, Sky News can reveal.
The Democratic presidential candidate now joins President Donald Trump on the list of nominees as the race for the White House enters its final stages.
Mr Bryant, a member of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee and chair of the Standards and Privileges Committee, said Mr Biden deserved to be nominated for his dedication to argument and political debate during a turbulent time in American politics.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:05 Nobel Peace Prize nomination 'sort of a big thing'
He added: "When American cities have been in flames and citizen has been pitched against citizen, Joe has been a calming influence to bear.
"When others have resorted to violent solutions, he has argued that the best force is the force of argument because guns can stop a heart but well-placed words can change many hearts and many hearts can change the world."
The nomination comes just ahead of the first presidential debate between the candidates.
Peace prize nominations can be made by members of governments and international courts of law, university chancellors, professors of social science, history, philosophy, law and theology; leaders of peace research institutes and institutes of foreign affairs.
The prize will be awarded on 9 October this year and is decided by a committee.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Labour MP suspended after harassment charge, Sky News understands

Labour MP Claudia Webbe has been suspended from the party after being charged with harassment against a woman , Sky News understands .
It is understood that Ms Webbe , who was first elected to parliament in December 2019 , has had the party whip removed pending the outcome of the case .
In a statement , the Crown Prosecution Service said it made the decision to charge the Leicester East MP after receiving a file of evidence from the Metropolitan Police .
It added : `` Criminal proceedings against Ms Webbe are now active and she has the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is extremely important that there should be no reporting , commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings . ''
Ms Webbe , 55 , will appear at Westminster Magistrates ' Court on 11 November .
She is accused of carrying out the harassment between 1 September 2018 and 26 April 2020 .
Ms Webbe said in response : `` I am innocent of any wrongdoing and look forward to proving this in court .
`` I will be vigorously defending myself against these claims . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing case . ''

Labour MP Claudia Webbe has been suspended from the party after being charged with harassment against a woman, Sky News understands.
It is understood that Ms Webbe, who was first elected to parliament in December 2019, has had the party whip removed pending the outcome of the case.
In a statement, the Crown Prosecution Service said it made the decision to charge the Leicester East MP after receiving a file of evidence from the Metropolitan Police.
It added: "Criminal proceedings against Ms Webbe are now active and she has the right to a fair trial.
"It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings."
Ms Webbe, 55, will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 11 November.
She is accused of carrying out the harassment between 1 September 2018 and 26 April 2020.
Ms Webbe said in response: "I am innocent of any wrongdoing and look forward to proving this in court.
"I will be vigorously defending myself against these claims."
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A Labour Party spokesperson said: "It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing case."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-28--Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey accuses Boris Johnson of 'ruling by diktat'

The new Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has told Sky News his MPs are poised to vote against new COVID-19 laws , as he accused Boris Johnson of `` ruling by diktat '' .
In an interview following his first party conference speech as leader , he said at present his 11 MPs could not support the renewal of the Coronavirus Act in a Commons vote on Wednesday .
`` I have become alarmed at the Coronavirus Act , '' said Sir Ed .
`` At first , we voted for it , but we had concerns .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ renew it is unreasonable .
`` I have written to the prime minister about some of the powers on the care of disabled people and people with mental illness .
I want to argue that he takes out the parts that reduce the rights of people .
At the moment we ca n't support the renewal . ''
Confirming that his MPs will vote for an amendment tabled by Tory grandee Sir Graham Brady , chairman of the powerful Tory backbench 1922 Committee , demanding Commons votes before any future coronavirus curbs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a right to debate .
`` People want to know Parliament is active and can control the executive .
Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings seem to be ruling the country by diktat and that 's not acceptable .
`` We will support the Brady amendment and the need for more scrutiny .
But this amendment does n't go far enough , particularly on taking away the care rights of disabled people , which breaches international law .
`` We 'll put down our own amendment .
Interestingly many of the laws being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or other pieces of legislation .
`` We must debate which laws are needed , but I do n't think it helps if we have a law that contains things that are wrong and unlawful and breaks Britain 's international obligations .
I think that 's wrong . ''
Asked about the threat of a London lockdown , despite his concerns about further COVID restrictions the Kingston and Surbiton MP said : `` I am deeply worried about that .
But if that 's the only way we can stop the spread then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' But he added : `` We have to help people and businesses far more than the government is doing , if we go down that road .
The government is n't helping people enough . ''
He also said the House of Commons may have to return to a so-called `` hybrid parliament '' , with fewer MPs in the chamber .
`` Parliament must show leadership and act in a COVID-secure way and keep our constituents safe .
`` We are taking the treat of this pandemic seriously .
If that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a hybrid parliament then we 'll have to do that . ''
In his Sky News interview , Sir Ed also revealed how difficult it was to make such a deeply personal and emotional conference speech , in which he spoke about his father 's death when he was four and caring for his mother , who died when he was 15 , and his 12-year-old son John , who has a neurological condition .
`` Having just become leader , it 's important people know who I am , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speech .
But if you want to know who I am , losing your parents at a young age , looking after your disabled child , that shapes who you are .
`` We have to look after our sons .
Having these duties is who I am .
Having seen how many people struggle with those responsibilities , juggling work or not having enough money , I ca n't stand by .
I want to be their voice .
`` There are millions of carers out there .
I want the Liberal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Asked to define his ambition as party leader , given that the Lib Dems currently stand at only around 5 % in opinion polls , Sir Ed said : `` I want to rebuild the Lib Dems , reconnect them with British people .
It has been a tough five years for us .
`` People feel we 're not on their side .
I want people to know we want to help them and their families .
I want them to know we share their concerns and we want to help them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're relevant to the lives of people . ''
Asked about a vote at the party 's conference this week to push for renewed membership of the EU as a `` longer term objective '' , Sir Ed said : `` At the moment we are focused on preventing a no deal Brexit or a hard Brexit , just when we 're looking at possibly the worst recession in 300 years .
`` People tell me they 're concerned about their jobs , livelihood and a no deal or a hard Brexit will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We need to focus on what 's in front of us .
I 'm going to focus on concerns of British people now .
That 's my job .
That 's what I 'll do . ''

The new Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has told Sky News his MPs are poised to vote against new COVID-19 laws, as he accused Boris Johnson of "ruling by diktat".
In an interview following his first party conference speech as leader, he said at present his 11 MPs could not support the renewal of the Coronavirus Act in a Commons vote on Wednesday.
"I have become alarmed at the Coronavirus Act," said Sir Ed. "At first, we voted for it, but we had concerns. I have become increasingly concerned. Asking to renew it is unreasonable.
"I have written to the prime minister about some of the powers on the care of disabled people and people with mental illness. I want to argue that he takes out the parts that reduce the rights of people. At the moment we can't support the renewal."
Confirming that his MPs will vote for an amendment tabled by Tory grandee Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the powerful Tory backbench 1922 Committee, demanding Commons votes before any future coronavirus curbs, Sir Ed said: "MPs should have a right to debate.
"People want to know Parliament is active and can control the executive. Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings seem to be ruling the country by diktat and that's not acceptable.
"We will support the Brady amendment and the need for more scrutiny. But this amendment doesn't go far enough, particularly on taking away the care rights of disabled people, which breaches international law.
"We'll put down our own amendment. Interestingly many of the laws being used aren't in the Coronavirus Act or other pieces of legislation.
"We must debate which laws are needed, but I don't think it helps if we have a law that contains things that are wrong and unlawful and breaks Britain's international obligations. I think that's wrong."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 'I will be your voice', Sir Ed Davey tells carers
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:40 PM faces revolt over COVID-19 decisions
Asked about the threat of a London lockdown, despite his concerns about further COVID restrictions the Kingston and Surbiton MP said: "I am deeply worried about that. But if that's the only way we can stop the spread then we'll have to do it."
But he added: "We have to help people and businesses far more than the government is doing, if we go down that road. The government isn't helping people enough."
He also said the House of Commons may have to return to a so-called "hybrid parliament", with fewer MPs in the chamber. "Parliament must show leadership and act in a COVID-secure way and keep our constituents safe.
"We are taking the treat of this pandemic seriously. If that means we have to go back to a hybrid parliament then we'll have to do that."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:54 New lockdown rules for North East
In his Sky News interview, Sir Ed also revealed how difficult it was to make such a deeply personal and emotional conference speech, in which he spoke about his father's death when he was four and caring for his mother, who died when he was 15, and his 12-year-old son John, who has a neurological condition.
"Having just become leader, it's important people know who I am," he said. "It wasn't an easy speech. But if you want to know who I am, losing your parents at a young age, looking after your disabled child, that shapes who you are.
"We have to look after our sons. Having these duties is who I am. Having seen how many people struggle with those responsibilities, juggling work or not having enough money, I can't stand by. I want to be their voice.
"There are millions of carers out there. I want the Liberal Democrats to be their voice."
Asked to define his ambition as party leader, given that the Lib Dems currently stand at only around 5% in opinion polls, Sir Ed said: "I want to rebuild the Lib Dems, reconnect them with British people. It has been a tough five years for us.
"People feel we're not on their side. I want people to know we want to help them and their families. I want them to know we share their concerns and we want to help them. I want to make sure we're relevant to the lives of people."
Asked about a vote at the party's conference this week to push for renewed membership of the EU as a "longer term objective", Sir Ed said: "At the moment we are focused on preventing a no deal Brexit or a hard Brexit, just when we're looking at possibly the worst recession in 300 years.
"People tell me they're concerned about their jobs, livelihood and a no deal or a hard Brexit will make people's lives even worse.
"We need to focus on what's in front of us. I'm going to focus on concerns of British people now. That's my job. That's what I'll do."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-29--Boris Johnson apologises for 'misspeaking' about new coronavirus rules

Boris Johnson has apologised for muddling up his own coronavirus rules on social gatherings .
The prime minister was questioned about the latest COVID-19 restrictions coming into force for northeast England from midnight on Wednesday .
At first , he said people could meet indoors and outdoors in groups of six in areas where no additional coronavirus restrictions are in place .
But speaking during a news conference in Exeter , he claimed : `` In the North East and other areas where extra tight measures have been brought in , you should follow the guidance of local authorities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ or six in hospitality but as I understand it , not six outside . ''
That was at odds with what residents had been told in Northumberland , Newcastle , North and South Tyneside , Gateshead , Sunderland and County Durham .
Official guidelines warn people living there `` not to mix with people outside their household or bubble in indoor settings , including pubs and restaurants '' .
And hospitality workers are obliged to `` take steps to ensure that people do not socialise outside of their households inside and outside your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answer during an event to promote a planned skills revolution by admitting `` clearly for everyone watching this , this is one of those things people will feel is confusing '' .
He later tweeted `` apologies , I misspoke today '' - and confirmed the new rules in the North East will mean residents `` can not meet people from different households in social settings indoors , including in pubs , restaurants and your home '' .
The prime minister added people should also `` avoid socialising with other households outside '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` vital to control the spread of coronavirus and keep everyone safe '' .
The party 's deputy leader Angela Rayner said : `` These new restrictions are due to come into force across huge parts of the country tonight .
`` The government needs to get a grip . ''
And shadow justice secretary David Lammy said Mr Johnson 's `` incompetence '' was `` putting British lives at risk '' .

Boris Johnson has apologised for muddling up his own coronavirus rules on social gatherings.
The prime minister was questioned about the latest COVID-19 restrictions coming into force for northeast England from midnight on Wednesday.
At first, he said people could meet indoors and outdoors in groups of six in areas where no additional coronavirus restrictions are in place.
Image: The PM confused rules on gatherings
But speaking during a news conference in Exeter, he claimed: "In the North East and other areas where extra tight measures have been brought in, you should follow the guidance of local authorities.
"It's six in a home or six in hospitality but as I understand it, not six outside."
That was at odds with what residents had been told in Northumberland, Newcastle, North and South Tyneside, Gateshead, Sunderland and County Durham.
Official guidelines warn people living there "not to mix with people outside their household or bubble in indoor settings, including pubs and restaurants".
And hospitality workers are obliged to "take steps to ensure that people do not socialise outside of their households inside and outside your premises".
Image: New rules come into force for the North East on Wednesday
Mr Johnson finished his answer during an event to promote a planned skills revolution by admitting "clearly for everyone watching this, this is one of those things people will feel is confusing".
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He later tweeted "apologies, I misspoke today" - and confirmed the new rules in the North East will mean residents "cannot meet people from different households in social settings indoors, including in pubs, restaurants and your home".
The prime minister added people should also "avoid socialising with other households outside", and wrote that the measures were "vital to control the spread of coronavirus and keep everyone safe".
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Earlier on Tuesday morning, education minister Gillian Keegan was unable to say whether the new restrictions in the North East stopped people meeting up with other households in a pub garden or in an outdoor seating area of a restaurant.
"I'm sorry, I can't clarify that," she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme, also adding: "I don't know the answer to that question."
Local council leaders criticised the government's confused messaging over the new restrictions, as well as how the measures were announced on Monday.
Gateshead Council leader Martin Gannon said, although he was a life-long Labour supporter, he needed to see better leadership from the Conservatives.
"I just want the government to get a grip, get control of the situation, show some leadership and get some respect from the country," he said.
"Despite the fact it's Boris Johnson and a Conservative government, we need effective public health messaging. We need strong authoritative voices nationally."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:27 'The PM doesn't even understand the rules'
Nick Forbes, the Labour leader of Newcastle City Council, posted on Twitter: "You can't just bluster your way through situations like this - making it up as you go has massive consequences, confuses people and undermines the very public health goals both local and central government are trying to achieve."
He also later told Sky News: "The government jumped the gun with the announcement yesterday - took us completely by surprise - and, as a result, instead of very clear messages about getting the virus under control, we're in a completely unnecessary row about how the government made this announcement and why we weren't involved in it."
Sunderland City Council leader Graeme Miller criticised Health Secretary Matt Hancock for announcing the new restrictions on Monday before letting councils know.
"It left us in a position where we were unable to provide answers to the questions our residents quite rightly wanted to ask and did nothing to inspire public confidence," he said.
Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner accused the prime minister of being "grossly incompetent".
"These new restrictions are due to come into force across huge parts of the country tonight," she said.
"The government needs to get a grip."
And shadow justice secretary David Lammy said Mr Johnson's "incompetence" was "putting British lives at risk".