skynewspolitics--2020-06-10--PM refuses to criticise Donald Trump over Black Lives Matter response

Boris Johnson offered no criticism of Donald Trump and claimed the US is a `` bastion of peace and freedom '' as he was quizzed about the global Black Lives Matter protests .
Amid continuing demonstrations across the UK and the rest of the world over the killing of George Floyd in America , the prime minister reiterated his view that the death of the 46-year-old was `` absolutely appalling '' .
But , challenged over Mr Trump 's response to the killing , Mr Johnson only stressed the role of the US as Britain 's `` most important ally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defended the use of `` very important '' stop and search in the UK despite being urged to end the `` pain and injustice '' of Section 60 powers .
During Wednesday 's PMQs , SNP MP Kirsty Blackman branded the response of Mr Trump to Mr Floyd 's killing and the Black Lives Matter movement as `` horrendous '' .
Referencing previous comments by Mr Johnson , she asked the prime minister whether he still believed the US president has `` many , many good qualities '' .
Mr Johnson replied : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many times , because it 's important for the House to hear it again , yes black lives matter and , yes , the death of George Floyd was absolutely appalling .
`` As for the qualities of Mr Trump , let me say he has , amongst many other things , he is president of the United States , which is our most important ally in the world today .
`` And whatever people may say about it , whatever those on the Left may say about it , the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and has been for most of my lifetime . ''
During his appearance in the House of Commons , the prime minister was also urged to abolish stop and search powers , which the government plans to enhance in new legislation .
Liberal Democrat acting leader Sir Ed Davey said : `` Under suspicionless stop and search powers , which this government is expanding , a black person is 47 times more likely to be stopped and searched than a white person .
`` On too many occasions , stop and search seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be suspected of being a criminal . ''
He asked the prime minister to `` abolish suspicionless stop and search powers and end the pain and injustice they wreak on so many people in Britain 's black and minority communities '' .
In response , Mr Johnson said it was `` very important '' that stop and search is `` carried out sensitively and in accordance with the law '' as he hailed the `` great difference '' made by police wearing body cameras .
But he added Section 60 powers `` can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` I 'm afraid what has been happening in London with knife crime has been completely unacceptable , '' he told MPs .
`` I do believe stop and search , amongst many other things , can be a very important utensil in fighting knife crime .
`` It does work .
It worked for us when I was running London and it must work now .
`` I 'm not saying it 's the whole answer , he 's right .
It 's not the whole answer but it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer told the prime minister there had been `` precious little action '' despite at least seven reports into racial inequality in the last three years .
Mr Johnson said he `` understands the very strong and legitimate feelings of people in this country '' at Mr Lloyd 's death .
And he added the government was `` getting on '' with the implementation of recommendations by Labour MP David Lammy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But he stressed `` it is absolutely vital , at the same time , that we keep our streets safe and we back our police '' .
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to Come ?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk

Boris Johnson offered no criticism of Donald Trump and claimed the US is a "bastion of peace and freedom" as he was quizzed about the global Black Lives Matter protests.
Amid continuing demonstrations across the UK and the rest of the world over the killing of George Floyd in America, the prime minister reiterated his view that the death of the 46-year-old was "absolutely appalling".
But, challenged over Mr Trump's response to the killing, Mr Johnson only stressed the role of the US as Britain's "most important ally in the world".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 George Floyd family challenges Trump's slogan
He also defended the use of "very important" stop and search in the UK despite being urged to end the "pain and injustice" of Section 60 powers.
During Wednesday's PMQs, SNP MP Kirsty Blackman branded the response of Mr Trump to Mr Floyd's killing and the Black Lives Matter movement as "horrendous".
Referencing previous comments by Mr Johnson, she asked the prime minister whether he still believed the US president has "many, many good qualities".
Mr Johnson replied: "I renew what I have said many times, because it's important for the House to hear it again, yes black lives matter and, yes, the death of George Floyd was absolutely appalling.
"As for the qualities of Mr Trump, let me say he has, amongst many other things, he is president of the United States, which is our most important ally in the world today.
"And whatever people may say about it, whatever those on the Left may say about it, the United States is a bastion of peace and freedom and has been for most of my lifetime."
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During his appearance in the House of Commons, the prime minister was also urged to abolish stop and search powers, which the government plans to enhance in new legislation.
Image: The PM defended the use of stop and search powers
Liberal Democrat acting leader Sir Ed Davey said: "Under suspicionless stop and search powers, which this government is expanding, a black person is 47 times more likely to be stopped and searched than a white person.
"On too many occasions, stop and search seems to mean being black is enough to be suspected of being a criminal."
He asked the prime minister to "abolish suspicionless stop and search powers and end the pain and injustice they wreak on so many people in Britain's black and minority communities".
In response, Mr Johnson said it was "very important" that stop and search is "carried out sensitively and in accordance with the law" as he hailed the "great difference" made by police wearing body cameras.
But he added Section 60 powers "can be very important in fighting violent crime".
"I'm afraid what has been happening in London with knife crime has been completely unacceptable," he told MPs.
"I do believe stop and search, amongst many other things, can be a very important utensil in fighting knife crime.
"It does work. It worked for us when I was running London and it must work now.
"I'm not saying it's the whole answer, he's right. It's not the whole answer but it's part of the mix."
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Earlier, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer told the prime minister there had been "precious little action" despite at least seven reports into racial inequality in the last three years.
Mr Johnson said he "understands the very strong and legitimate feelings of people in this country" at Mr Lloyd's death.
And he added the government was "getting on" with the implementation of recommendations by Labour MP David Lammy's government-commissioned report into the justice system.
But he stressed "it is absolutely vital, at the same time, that we keep our streets safe and we back our police".
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--26,985 people told to self-isolate by government's test and trace scheme

A total of 26,985 people have been told to isolate by the government 's contact tracing system , the Department @ @ @ @ @ Between 28 May and 3 June , 8,117 people tested positive for COVID-19 and around @ @ @ @ @ people they had come into close contact with to the government scheme .
Some 31,794 @ @ @ @ @ system and around 85 % of these were able to be contacted and told to @ @ @ @ @ and trace system is believed to be key to helping ease lockdown measures .

One third of people who tested positive for coronavirus could not be reached by the government's contact tracing system, or refused to hand over their contacts.
Between 28 May and 3 June, 8,117 people who tested positive for COVID-19 were transferred to the NHS Test and Trace system.
Around two-thirds (5,407) provided details of people they had come into close contact with to the government scheme, the Department of Health has said.
But 2,710 did not provide information about their contacts or could not be reached.
Some 31,794 contacts were identified by the system and 26,985 (85%) were able to be contacted and told to stay indoors.
Contacts include people whose cases are currently being managed as part of active outbreak investigations.
The test and trace system is believed to be key to helping ease lockdown measures.
Baroness Harding, the head of the test and trace programme, admitted it was not yet at the "gold standard" but said it was now a "functioning service" and would improve over the summer.
According to the data, 79% of people who tested positive for the virus were reached within 24 hours, and a further 14% were reached within 48 hours.
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A number of contacts were not able to be identified as the contact details for some of those who tested positive for coronavirus were unavailable or incorrect, or they did not respond.
In other instances, the patient refused to provide details of their contacts.
Some contacts were reached but did not agree to self-isolate, although it is not clear how many refused to comply.
Baroness Harding said the vast majority of people contacted have wanted to comply and provide contacts, but that it is not a "mandatory process".
"These are very good numbers for compliance and we want to encourage people to be part of the system rather than have them be fearful about what might happen to them as they go through it," she said.
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She was unable to give a date for when the app will be launched, which will be part of the test and trace programme.
The app has been described as the "cherry on the cake" but "not the cake itself".
A further 151 people have died after testing positive for the coronavirus in the UK, taking the total to 41,279.
The latest figure from the Department of Health is up until 5pm on Wednesday.
It includes those who have died with COVID-19 in hospital, care homes and the community.
The government figures do not include all deaths involving the virus across the UK since the pandemic began, which is thought to have passed 52,000.
The daily figures for each UK nation are:
Scotland - five new deaths - total now 2,439
Northern Ireland - one new death - total now 538
England - 83 new deaths - total hospital deaths 27,790
Wales - six new deaths - total now 1,425
Individual health authorities in the home nations collate their numbers at different times throughout the day and so they may not tally up to the UK government's overall daily total.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--Minister under pressure over 'unlawful' decision to 'force through' development

A cabinet minister is facing calls to provide `` full transparency '' over his `` unlawful decision '' to try and `` force through '' a development for 1,500 homes in London said to be worth £1bn .
Robert Jenrick is under pressure over his involvement with the Westferry Printworks redevelopment scheme in east London .
The project got the go-ahead in January from the housing , communities and local government secretary - against the recommendation of a planning inspector .
The decision has since been reversed after legal action by Tower Hamlets Council , with the local authority saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to show bias '' by Mr Jenrick .
It was made a day before new infrastructure charges came into force , allowing the developer - former Daily Express owner Richard Desmond 's Northern and Shell firm - to avoid paying between £30-£50m extra to the council .
Mr Jenrick has been accused by Labour of taking the decision following a `` glitzy fundraising dinner '' with Mr Desmond .
Two weeks after the scheme was approved , records from the Electoral Commission show that Mr Desmond personally gave £12,000 to the Conservatives .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Shell for a comment .
A minister in Mr Jenrick 's department has told Sky News there has been `` absolutely no wrongdoing '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' I wo n't get drawn into the specifics of the decision , but what I can absolutely say is there has been no wrongdoing , '' Simon Clarke told Kay Burley @ Breakfast .
`` We would refute that in the strongest possible terms . ''
Labour tabled an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons on Thursday .
Shadow communities and local government secretary Steve Reed said : `` The secretary of state will not have the public confidence he needs to overhaul the planning system until we have full transparency over his unlawful decision to force through the Westferry development . ''
He raised a number of questions about the project , including whether Mr Jenrick disclosed his conversations with Mr Desmond to the department and why he did not `` immediately recuse himself '' from the decision .
Mr Reed added : `` The secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day before the community infrastructure levy came in to force , so did he know he was helping Mr Desmond dodge a potential £50m tax bill ?
`` And will the secretary of state now disclose what contact he or his representatives had with the developers about this tax ? ''
He added that Mr Jenrick should publish all correspondence he had in relation to the Westferry Printworks decision , saying the `` sequence of events raises grave concerns about cash for favours '' .
Mr Jenrick sent junior minister Chris Pincher to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons that his boss had acted `` properly and with propriety '' .
`` At all times he has disclosed any conversations that he has had with applicants , '' Mr Pincher said , adding : `` Mr Jenrick has no relationship with the applicant so I think that question is irrelevant .
`` Both the applicant and the local authority have asked Mr Jenrick to attend the site to make a site visit .
Mr Jenrick , in discussion with the officials in my department weighed up the pros and cons of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Mr Pincher also said that a donation in relation to the Westferry permission was not discussed .
He told MPs that Mr Desmond raised the project with Mr Jenrick at the dinner , but the minister `` made it absolutely clear that he could not discuss planning matters , that he would not discuss that planning matter and the issue was closed '' .

A cabinet minister is facing calls to provide "full transparency" over his "unlawful decision" to try and "force through" a development for 1,500 homes in London said to be worth £1bn.
Robert Jenrick is under pressure over his involvement with the Westferry Printworks redevelopment scheme in east London.
The project got the go-ahead in January from the housing, communities and local government secretary - against the recommendation of a planning inspector.
Image: Two weeks after the scheme was approved, records show Richard Desmond gave £12,000 to the Conservatives
The decision has since been reversed after legal action by Tower Hamlets Council, with the local authority saying the "timing of the decision appeared to show bias" by Mr Jenrick.
It was made a day before new infrastructure charges came into force, allowing the developer - former Daily Express owner Richard Desmond's Northern and Shell firm - to avoid paying between £30-£50m extra to the council.
Mr Jenrick has been accused by Labour of taking the decision following a "glitzy fundraising dinner" with Mr Desmond.
Two weeks after the scheme was approved, records from the Electoral Commission show that Mr Desmond personally gave £12,000 to the Conservatives.
Labour is calling on the Tories to repay the donation, while the Liberal Democrats are demanding an investigation into whether Mr Jenrick broke the ministerial code.
Sky News has contacted Northern and Shell for a comment, as well as Mr Desmond.
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A minister in Mr Jenrick's department has told Sky News there has been "absolutely no wrongdoing".
"I won't get drawn into the specifics of the decision, but what I can absolutely say is there has been no wrongdoing," Simon Clarke told Kay Burley@Breakfast.
"We would refute that in the strongest possible terms."
Labour tabled an urgent question on the matter in the Commons on Thursday.
Shadow communities and local government secretary Steve Reed said: "The secretary of state will not have the public confidence he needs to overhaul the planning system until we have full transparency over his unlawful decision to force through the Westferry development."
He raised a number of questions about the project, including whether Mr Jenrick disclosed his conversations with Mr Desmond to the department and why he did not "immediately recuse himself" from the decision.
Mr Reed added: "The secretary of state gave the scheme consent one day before the community infrastructure levy came in to force, so did he know he was helping Mr Desmond dodge a potential £50m tax bill?
"And will the secretary of state now disclose what contact he or his representatives had with the developers about this tax?"
He added that Mr Jenrick should publish all correspondence he had in relation to the Westferry Printworks decision, saying the "sequence of events raises grave concerns about cash for favours".
Image: Shadow Communities Secretary Steve Reed
Mr Jenrick sent junior minister Chris Pincher to face MPs - and he told the Commons that his boss had acted "properly and with propriety".
"At all times he has disclosed any conversations that he has had with applicants," Mr Pincher said, adding: "Mr Jenrick has no relationship with the applicant so I think that question is irrelevant.
"Both the applicant and the local authority have asked Mr Jenrick to attend the site to make a site visit. Mr Jenrick, in discussion with the officials in my department weighed up the pros and cons of such a site visit and decided against."
Mr Pincher also said that a donation in relation to the Westferry permission was not discussed.
He told MPs that Mr Desmond raised the project with Mr Jenrick at the dinner, but the minister "made it absolutely clear that he could not discuss planning matters, that he would not discuss that planning matter and the issue was closed".


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--PM pledges 'massive' catch-up as criticism grows over school 'mismanagement'

School pupils will undergo a `` massive catch-up operation over the summer and beyond '' , the prime minister has announced , as critics rounded on the government 's handling of the impact of COVID-19 on education .
Boris Johnson has said he wants all pupils back in classrooms by September - with reports suggesting he is willing to relax the two-metre rule to make this happen .
It comes after the government abandoned plans to get more primary school children back in class before England 's summer break .
At the Downing Street news briefing on Wednesday , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to move `` slower than we would have liked in some areas '' , including in reopening schools .
`` We 're going to get all schools back in September if we possibly can ... but it 's going to be a big summer of catch up .
`` So we 're going as fast as we can , we still have a pandemic to cope with ... and we 're going to have a massive catch-up operation over the summer and beyond which Gavin Williamson will be setting out next week .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ accused ministers of `` mismanagement '' over the reopening of schools .
In an article in The Daily Telegraph , he said the issues facing Downing Street on ensuring pupils were safe to return to classrooms were `` entirely foreseeable '' and criticised the prime minister for failing to meet with opposition parties to put together a plan .
`` There was no plan , no consensus , no leadership , '' Sir Keir said .
`` We now have the ridiculous situation where next week betting shops and theme parks will open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their children will go back to school .
`` The longer schools are shut , the greater the damage to children 's wellbeing and education and the increasing pressure on parents who are having to juggle childcare and work commitments . ''
Children in nursery , Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 in England began returning to primary school last week after the government eased lockdown measures .
But some schools said they did not have enough space on site to admit all pupils in the eligible year groups while adhering to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 15 .
In a sign the government could be preparing to announce a change , Sir Patrick Vallance , the UK 's chief scientific adviser , said at the daily Downing Street press briefing the two-metre advice was `` not a rule '' .
`` It is wrong to portray this as a scientific rule that says it is two metres or nothing - that is not what the advice has been and it is not what the advice is now , '' he said .
And the prime minister has promised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review '' .
Housing minister Simon Clarke told Sky News that the government was `` not yet in a position '' to change the two-metre rule .
Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth told Kay Burley @ Breakfast that ministers appear to `` have just given up '' and `` run away from this challenge '' on getting more pupils back to school .
On the two-metre rule , Mr Ashworth said Labour would back a reduction - but only if such a move was supported by `` clear scientific advice '' .
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Sir Keir said `` creativity '' was needed to utilise empty buildings across the country including theatres , museums and libraries , so they could be `` repurposed '' as makeshift classrooms to ensure schools can resume fully after the summer holidays .
The debate over the two-metre guidance and schools reopening comes as further lockdown easing for England was announced by Mr Johnson .
Some couples kept apart by lockdown restrictions will be able to reunite on Saturday and some grandparents will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the PM 's plan for `` support bubbles '' , allowing adults living alone or single parents to mix with one other household .

School pupils will undergo a "massive catch-up operation over the summer and beyond", the prime minister has announced, as critics rounded on the government's handling of the impact of COVID-19 on education.
Boris Johnson has said he wants all pupils back in classrooms by September - with reports suggesting he is willing to relax the two-metre rule to make this happen.
It comes after the government abandoned plans to get more primary school children back in class before England's summer break.
Image: Boris Johnson giving the latest briefing on coronavirus
At the Downing Street news briefing on Wednesday, Mr Johnson said the government had been forced to move "slower than we would have liked in some areas", including in reopening schools.
"We're going to get all schools back in September if we possibly can... but it's going to be a big summer of catch up.
"So we're going as fast as we can, we still have a pandemic to cope with... and we're going to have a massive catch-up operation over the summer and beyond which Gavin Williamson will be setting out next week."
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has accused ministers of "mismanagement" over the reopening of schools.
In an article in The Daily Telegraph, he said the issues facing Downing Street on ensuring pupils were safe to return to classrooms were "entirely foreseeable" and criticised the prime minister for failing to meet with opposition parties to put together a plan.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:41 PM and Sir Keir Starmer clash over reopening of schools
"There was no plan, no consensus, no leadership," Sir Keir said.
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"We now have the ridiculous situation where next week betting shops and theme parks will open, but parents are not clear when their children will go back to school.
"The longer schools are shut, the greater the damage to children's wellbeing and education and the increasing pressure on parents who are having to juggle childcare and work commitments."
Children in nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 in England began returning to primary school last week after the government eased lockdown measures.
But some schools said they did not have enough space on site to admit all pupils in the eligible year groups while adhering to social distancing guidance and limiting class sizes to 15.
In a sign the government could be preparing to announce a change, Sir Patrick Vallance, the UK's chief scientific adviser, said at the daily Downing Street press briefing the two-metre advice was "not a rule".
"It is wrong to portray this as a scientific rule that says it is two metres or nothing - that is not what the advice has been and it is not what the advice is now," he said.
And the prime minister has promised to keep the restriction under "constant review".
Housing minister Simon Clarke told Sky News that the government was "not yet in a position" to change the two-metre rule.
Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth told Kay Burley@Breakfast that ministers appear to "have just given up" and "run away from this challenge" on getting more pupils back to school.
On the two-metre rule, Mr Ashworth said Labour would back a reduction - but only if such a move was supported by "clear scientific advice".
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Sir Keir said "creativity" was needed to utilise empty buildings across the country including theatres, museums and libraries, so they could be "repurposed" as makeshift classrooms to ensure schools can resume fully after the summer holidays.
The debate over the two-metre guidance and schools reopening comes as further lockdown easing for England was announced by Mr Johnson.
Some couples kept apart by lockdown restrictions will be able to reunite on Saturday and some grandparents will be able to hug their grandchildren as part of the PM's plan for "support bubbles", allowing adults living alone or single parents to mix with one other household.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--Should the two-metre social distancing restriction be reduced?

The two-metre social distancing restriction has become a fact of life during the coronavirus pandemic , but that could be about to change .
Reports suggest Prime Minister Boris Johnson is considering reducing it to one metre in order to allow more businesses to begin operating again and schools to fully reopen in September .
Sky News takes a look at how the UK 's approach compares to other countries and the potential risks of making any changes in the weeks and months ahead .
What is the situation at the moment ?
Since March , people in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when around others from outside their own household .
This has meant trying to keep two metres ( 6.5ft ) apart from others when outside , at work and in shops and supermarkets .
Government guidance acknowledges that `` this will not always be possible '' , but adds that the risk of infection increases the closer you are to someone with the virus .
`` Public Health England recommends trying to keep two metres away from people as a precaution , '' the guidance states .
`` However , this is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The key thing is to not be too close to people for more than a short period of time , as much as you can . ''
In enclosed spaces where social distancing is more difficult , the government says face coverings `` can help us protect each other and reduce the spread of the disease '' .
Why are there calls for it to be changed ?
As the country continues to come out of the lockdown introduced towards the end of March to try and slow the spread of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beginning to return to a semblance of normality .
But adhering to the two-metre restriction is proving to be easier for some than others .
Schools , for example , have been advised to limit class sizes to 15 pupils .
They argue this limits their scope for welcoming back more pupils .
As well as allowing more children to return to education , supporters of a change argue it would allow more businesses , like pubs , restaurants and smaller shops , to reopen .
Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the `` number one and single most important priority to unlock the economy '' .
`` The hospitality sector simply ca n't make a living at two metres , '' he told the Daily Mail .
Damian Green , Theresa May 's deputy when she was PM , told the BBC it would make a `` huge difference '' .
`` We 've seen other countries do that , actually move from two metres to one metre , without any damaging effects so far , '' he told Newsnight .
Mr Johnson has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` constant review '' and has spoken of his hope that it can be reduced in the future .
But while it does appear that such calls are gaining momentum , a decision from the government does not seem imminent .
Is there more of a risk if the distance is reduced ?
The simple argument against reducing the two metre restriction is that it would increase the risk of people catching COVID-19 .
For some , especially those who have lost loved ones to the virus , relaxing it may seem like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ die from it .
A recent study in the Lancet suggested physical distancing of at least one metre lowers the risk of coronavirus transmission , but distances of two metres could be more effective .
It found that the risk of infection when people stand more than a metre away from the infected individual was 3 % , and 13 % if within a metre .
Modelling suggests that for every extra metre further away up to three metres , the risk of infection or transmission may halve .
But like so much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers have to make a risk assessment and attempt a balancing act .
In a sense , introducing lockdown and telling people to stay at home was the easy part .
The message was unequivocal .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But the lockdown can not continue forever - and in the absence of a vaccine - coming out of that will involve an element of risk .
Reducing the two-metre restriction is a risk , but the PM may come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calculated one that is worth taking .
Proponents of moving to one metre argue that the risk of people losing their jobs , businesses closing their doors permanently and children missing out on more time at school outweighs the increased risk of people getting the virus .
Do other countries do things differently ?
France , Denmark and Singapore are among the nations that have a one metre rule .
The World Health Organisation also recommends maintaining a distance of `` at least '' one metre .
But it should be stressed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when it comes to advocating two metres .
Canada and Spain also have a two-metre restriction in place .

The two-metre social distancing restriction has become a fact of life during the coronavirus pandemic, but that looks set to change.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to soften the rule after a review and consultation with cabinet ministers on Tuesday, before making a formal announcement in parliament.
It follows pressure from businesses and some Conservative MPs for the two-metre guideline to be reduced to one metre.
He recently teed up the alteration to help more children get back to the classroom by telling people to "watch this space".
Sky News takes a look at how the UK's approach to social distancing compares to other countries and the potential risks of making any changes in the days ahead.
Image: People observing social distancing on a bench in Hyde Park, London
What is the situation at the moment?
Since March, people in the UK have been told to maintain social distancing when around others from outside their own household.
This has meant trying to keep two metres (6.5ft) apart from others when outside, at work and in shops and supermarkets.
Government guidance acknowledges that "this will not always be possible", but adds that the risk of infection increases the closer you are to someone with the virus.
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"Public Health England recommends trying to keep two metres away from people as a precaution," the guidance states.
"However, this is not a rule and the science is complex. The key thing is to not be too close to people for more than a short period of time, as much as you can."
In enclosed spaces where social distancing is more difficult, the government says face coverings "can help us protect each other and reduce the spread of the disease".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:45 Johnson eases lockdown with another household
Why are there calls for it to be changed?
As the country continues to come out of the measures originally imposed to try and slow the spread of COVID-19, more aspects of day-to-day life are beginning to return to a semblance of normality.
But adhering to the two-metre restriction is proving to be easier for some than others.
Schools, for example, have been advised to limit class sizes to 15 pupils.
They argue this limits their scope for welcoming back more pupils.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 Schools struggling with social distancing
As well as allowing more children to return to education, supporters of a change argue it would allow more businesses - especially those in the hospitality sector like pubs and restaurants - to reopen.
It has been claimed two-thirds of English pubs will be forced to stay closed unless the rule is reduced to one metre.
After economic data showed the UK suffered the biggest collapse in GDP ever seen, as it plunged by 20.4% in April, former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith called for the government to act "quickly" in reducing the two-metre rule.
"There is a real economic imperative to get the economy moving again," he told Sky News.
"One of the problems in moving the economy is that the two-metre rule hamstrings us in a whole series of areas."
Damian Green, Theresa May's deputy when she was PM, told the BBC it would make a "huge difference".
"We've seen other countries do that, actually move from two metres to one metre, without any damaging effects so far," he told Newsnight.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has acknowledged the "positive impact" a reduction in the two-metre rule would have on businesses' ability to reopen.
Image: People are seen buying takeaway pints at a pub on Wandsworth Common in London
Is there more of a risk if the distance is reduced?
The simple argument against reducing the two-metre restriction is that it would increase the risk of people catching COVID-19.
For some, especially those who have lost loved ones to the virus, relaxing it may seem like a reckless move while people continue to die from it.
A recent study in the Lancet suggested physical distancing of at least one metre lowers the risk of coronavirus transmission, but distances of two metres could be more effective.
It found that the risk of infection when people stand more than a metre away from the infected individual was 3%, and 13% if within a metre.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:57 Lancet study backs distancing and face masks
Modelling suggests that for every extra metre further away up to three metres, the risk of infection or transmission may halve.
But like so much of the response to the coronavirus, ministers have to make a risk assessment and attempt a balancing act.
In a sense, introducing lockdown and telling people to stay at home was the easy part. The message was unequivocal.
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But the lockdown cannot continue forever - and in the absence of a vaccine - coming out of that will involve an element of risk.
Asked about a possible reduction in the two-metre rule, the prime minister said there would be "more margin for manouvre" as the number of coronavirus infections in the country continues to fall.
He said: "The question for us is - as we get the numbers down so it becomes one in 1,000 (people infected with coronavirus), one in 1,600, maybe even fewer - your chances of being two metres or one metre or even a foot away from somebody who has the virus are obviously going down statistically."
Proponents of moving to one metre argue that the risk of people losing their jobs, businesses closing their doors permanently and children missing out on more time at school outweighs any possible increased risk of people getting the virus.
Image: Schools are having to adapt to the social distancing restrictions
Do other countries do things differently?
They do.
France, Denmark and Singapore are among the nations that have a one metre rule.
The World Health Organisation also recommends maintaining a distance of "at least" one metre.
But it should be stressed that the UK is not an international outlier when it comes to advocating two metres.
Canada and Spain also have a two-metre restriction in place.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-10--Black history lessons should be taught in all schools, campaigners demand

Campaigners are urging the government to make the teaching of black history compulsory in primary and secondary schools in the wake of recent Black Lives Matter protests .
The Black Curriculum group has written to education secretary Gavin Williamson and asked him to review the national curriculum with a view to making the lessons mandatory .
`` We feel that it 's vital for young black people and young black students in Britain to see themselves reflected in a curriculum where they 're being shown in a positive light , in a capacity other than slavery , '' said spokesperson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this would be great for their sense of identity , their sense of belonging , but also the way that they interact with their white classmates and the way that their white classmates can interact with them . ''
Protesters in Bristol on Sunday toppled a statue of 17th century slave trader Edward Colston , while in Oxford this week there have been renewed calls for a statue of controversial 19th century colonialist Cecil Rhodes to be removed from Oriel College .
Campaigners have described Rhodes as `` the founding father of apartheid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm not amazed that people of colour and BAME history are omitted from the British curriculum , '' said Laura Stewart , an Oxford University postgraduate student who helped organise the `` Rhodes Must Fall '' protests .
`` What 's more important is that people who are not black need to be amazed and somewhat concerned because there 's a breadth of information that is essentially being kept from you . ''
Part of the letter to Mr Williamson reads : `` Learning black history should not be a choice but should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be reinforcing the message that a sizeable part of the British population are not valued . ''
In a statement , a Department of Education spokesperson said : `` Racism in all its forms is abhorrent and has no place in our society .
`` Schools already play a significant role in teaching children about the importance of having respect and tolerance for all cultures .
`` Black history is an important topic which schools can teach to children of all ages as part of the history curriculum .
`` Schools can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sources to support teaching Black history . ''
The campaigners have demanded a face-to-face meeting with the education secretary and say they want a response by 22 June , which is Windrush Day .
The Windrush scandal saw hundreds of Caribbean immigrants living and working in the UK wrongly targeted by immigration enforcement .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker It came as a result of the government 's `` hostile environment '' policies spearheaded by Theresa May when she was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out over the treatment of members of the Windrush generation , named after a ship that brought migrants to the UK from the Caribbean in 1948 .
Commonwealth citizens who arrived before 1973 were automatically granted indefinite leave to remain .
However , many of them were not issued with any documents confirming their status , which then led to many long-term UK residents being denied access to services , held in detention or removed despite living legally in the country for decades .
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to Come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a question to our panel , please send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk

Campaigners are urging the government to make the teaching of black history compulsory in primary and secondary schools in the wake of recent Black Lives Matter protests.
The Black Curriculum group has written to education secretary Gavin Williamson and asked him to review the national curriculum with a view to making the lessons mandatory.
"We feel that it's vital for young black people and young black students in Britain to see themselves reflected in a curriculum where they're being shown in a positive light, in a capacity other than slavery," said spokesperson Eleshea Williams.
"We feel that this would be great for their sense of identity, their sense of belonging, but also the way that they interact with their white classmates and the way that their white classmates can interact with them."
Image: Protesters throw statue of Edward Colston into Bristol harbour
Protesters in Bristol on Sunday toppled a statue of 17th century slave trader Edward Colston, while in Oxford this week there have been renewed calls for a statue of controversial 19th century colonialist Cecil Rhodes to be removed from Oriel College.
Campaigners have described Rhodes as "the founding father of apartheid in southern Africa".
"I'm not amazed that people of colour and BAME history are omitted from the British curriculum," said Laura Stewart, an Oxford University postgraduate student who helped organise the "Rhodes Must Fall" protests.
"What's more important is that people who are not black need to be amazed and somewhat concerned because there's a breadth of information that is essentially being kept from you."
Part of the letter to Mr Williamson reads: "Learning black history should not be a choice but should be mandatory.
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"Our curriculum should not be reinforcing the message that a sizeable part of the British population are not valued."
Image: A Black Lives Matter protest in London
In a statement, a Department of Education spokesperson said: "Racism in all its forms is abhorrent and has no place in our society.
"Schools already play a significant role in teaching children about the importance of having respect and tolerance for all cultures.
"Black history is an important topic which schools can teach to children of all ages as part of the history curriculum.
"Schools can utilise resources from a range of organisations and sources to support teaching Black history."
The campaigners have demanded a face-to-face meeting with the education secretary and say they want a response by 22 June, which is Windrush Day.
The Windrush scandal saw hundreds of Caribbean immigrants living and working in the UK wrongly targeted by immigration enforcement.
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It came as a result of the government's "hostile environment" policies spearheaded by Theresa May when she was home secretary.
A furious backlash broke out over the treatment of members of the Windrush generation, named after a ship that brought migrants to the UK from the Caribbean in 1948.
Commonwealth citizens who arrived before 1973 were automatically granted indefinite leave to remain.
However, many of them were not issued with any documents confirming their status, which then led to many long-term UK residents being denied access to services, held in detention or removed despite living legally in the country for decades.
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--Human rights watchdog reviewing UK's 'hostile environment' policy over Windrush scandal

Britain 's human rights watchdog is reviewing the Home Office 's `` hostile environment '' immigration policy that led to the Windrush scandal .
The Equality and Human Rights Commission ( EHRC ) is using its legal powers to assess whether , and how , the Home Office complied with its equality duties when devising policies that impacted the Windrush generation .
It will develop recommendations by September .
The watchdog highlighted the recent Black Lives Matter protests - following the killing of George Floyd in the US - and the impact of coronavirus on BAME communities for adding urgency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entrenched race inequalities '' in the UK .
The phrase `` hostile environment '' was notably used by former prime minister Theresa May during her six-year spell in charge of the Home Office to describe the government 's approach to dealing with illegal immigration .
It was blamed for immigration problems suffered by Caribbean migrants , some of whom were detained or deported despite having the right to live in Britain .
An independent report published in March , authored by Wendy Williams , found the Windrush scandal was `` foreseeable and avoidable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Home Office 's `` systemic operational failings '' .
EHRC chair David Isaac said : `` The Windrush scandal and hostile environment policies have cast a shadow across the UK and its values .
`` We are working with the Home Office to determine what must change so that this shameful period of our history is not repeated .
`` The impact of COVID-19 and the killing of George Floyd by US police officers has resulted in urgent calls for action to end the systemic and entrenched race inequalities that exist in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that all public bodies must promote inclusivity and opportunity by considering the impact their policies have on ethnic minorities .
`` We have long called for government to produce a comprehensive race equality strategy to tackle these injustices .
`` This assessment and the Home Office 's response to the recommendations in Wendy Williams 's report will focus on the importance of Public Sector Equality Duty to put our country 's values on track .
`` This work is part of our long-term strategy to tackle structural inequalities in Britain by ensuring public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` In this 10th year of the Equality Act , we will work with government to put equality at the heart of its decision-making so that everyone has a fair chance to thrive . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Labour 's shadow home secretary , Nick Thomas-Symonds , said : `` This is a damning indictment of the Conservatives and their failing of the Windrush generation .
`` It is an absolute scandal that the government allowed this situation to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to address quickly the deep hurt caused , including being so slow to process the compensation people are due . ''
Fellow Labour MP David Lammy , who was among more than 80 MPs to refer the Home Office to the EHRC last year , said : `` It is absolutely right that the EHRC has taken the unprecedented step of beginning legal action to review whether the Home Office broke equality laws in its appalling treatment of the Windrush generation . ''
The Home Office said Priti Patel , the current home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she could to `` right the wrongs '' endured by the Windrush generation .
`` We are carefully considering the findings of the Windrush lessons learned review and will respond shortly to those important recommendations , '' a spokesman said .
`` We will also work with the EHRC on the review they have launched . ''

Britain's human rights watchdog is reviewing the Home Office's "hostile environment" immigration policy that led to the Windrush scandal.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is using its legal powers to assess whether, and how, the Home Office complied with its equality duties when devising policies that impacted the Windrush generation.
It will develop recommendations by September.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 'People traumatised' by Windrush scandal
The watchdog highlighted the recent Black Lives Matter protests - following the killing of George Floyd in the US - and the impact of coronavirus on BAME communities for adding urgency to calls to end "systemic and entrenched race inequalities" in the UK.
The phrase "hostile environment" was notably used by former prime minister Theresa May during her six-year spell in charge of the Home Office to describe the government's approach to dealing with illegal immigration.
It was blamed for immigration problems suffered by Caribbean migrants, some of whom were detained or deported despite having the right to live in Britain.
An independent report published in March, authored by Wendy Williams, found the Windrush scandal was "foreseeable and avoidable" and victims were let down by the Home Office's "systemic operational failings".
EHRC chair David Isaac said: "The Windrush scandal and hostile environment policies have cast a shadow across the UK and its values.
"We are working with the Home Office to determine what must change so that this shameful period of our history is not repeated.
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"The impact of COVID-19 and the killing of George Floyd by US police officers has resulted in urgent calls for action to end the systemic and entrenched race inequalities that exist in our country.
"The law requires that all public bodies must promote inclusivity and opportunity by considering the impact their policies have on ethnic minorities.
"We have long called for government to produce a comprehensive race equality strategy to tackle these injustices.
"This assessment and the Home Office's response to the recommendations in Wendy Williams's report will focus on the importance of Public Sector Equality Duty to put our country's values on track.
"This work is part of our long-term strategy to tackle structural inequalities in Britain by ensuring public bodies use the PSED more effectively.
"In this 10th year of the Equality Act, we will work with government to put equality at the heart of its decision-making so that everyone has a fair chance to thrive."
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Labour's shadow home secretary, Nick Thomas-Symonds, said: "This is a damning indictment of the Conservatives and their failing of the Windrush generation.
"It is an absolute scandal that the government allowed this situation to arise and unforgivable that it has failed to address quickly the deep hurt caused, including being so slow to process the compensation people are due."
Fellow Labour MP David Lammy, who was among more than 80 MPs to refer the Home Office to the EHRC last year, said: "It is absolutely right that the EHRC has taken the unprecedented step of beginning legal action to review whether the Home Office broke equality laws in its appalling treatment of the Windrush generation."
The Home Office said Priti Patel, the current home secretary, was determined to do all she could to "right the wrongs" endured by the Windrush generation.
"We are carefully considering the findings of the Windrush lessons learned review and will respond shortly to those important recommendations," a spokesman said.
"We will also work with the EHRC on the review they have launched."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--2,000 buildings still covered with dangerous cladding three years on from Grenfell

Two thousand high-risk residential buildings are still covered with dangerous cladding , according to a committee scrutinising the government .
And support for those living in cladded buildings like Grenfell Tower `` falls far short '' of what is needed , a report from the Housing , Communities and Local Government ( HCLG ) committee says .
The report warns that properties are becoming `` unmortgageable and unsellable '' , with residents facing bills of `` tens of thousands of pounds '' to fix fire safety issues .
This week marks three years since 72 people died in the Grenfell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calling on the government to make `` an absolute commitment '' to ensure all buildings with aluminium cladding are made safe by December 2021 , and buildings with other forms of dangerous cladding are made safe by June 2022 .
The government has pledged £1bn to remove cladding from buildings that are taller than 18m , but the report says that is `` insufficient '' and would cover only a third of buildings needing renovation .
It also warns strict rules and a short application window will mean many are unable to access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Clive Betts MP , said the taxpayer should not be expected to cover all costs , and called on the government to `` take legal action '' where necessary .
Mr Betts said : `` We have challenged the government to finally commit to removing all forms of dangerous cladding once and for all .
`` Three years on from the Grenfell Tower disaster there are still thousands of home owners living in buildings with some form of dangerous cladding .
`` The financial and emotional toll has been significant , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ongoing stress of living in a property that may not be safe .
This is not good enough .
`` This should not just be a question of the government , and therefore the taxpayer , stepping in with a blank cheque .
`` Those who have caused , and in some cases refuse to rectify , safety issues must be made to pay .
`` We call on the government to consider taking legal action to recover the cost of works on individual buildings .
`` Compulsory purchase order powers should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buildings where owners have failed to begin remedial work by December 2020 .
`` It is time for the government to commit to end the scourge of dangerous cladding once and for all .
A piecemeal approach that will see homeowners facing many more years of stress and financial hardship - this is not an option . ''
A spokesperson for the Department for Housing , Communities and Local Government said : `` The safety of residents is our top priority and since the Grenfell Tower fire we have worked tirelessly with councils @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are made safe .
`` We are providing £1.6bn for the removal and replacement of unsafe cladding from high-rise buildings and are bringing forward the biggest legislative changes in a generation to provide further enforcement powers against those who do not comply with the law and ensuring that residents ' safety is at the heart of the construction process .
`` Building owners have a legal responsibility to keep their residents safe and whilst we have seen positive action from some , we are clear that more needs to be done to @ @ @ @ @

Two thousand high-risk residential buildings are still covered with dangerous cladding, according to a committee scrutinising the government.
And support for those living in cladded buildings like Grenfell Tower "falls far short" of what is needed, a report from the Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) committee says.
The report warns that properties are becoming "unmortgageable and unsellable", with residents facing bills of "tens of thousands of pounds" to fix fire safety issues.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:06 'Unsafe cladding has left me facing bankruptcy'
This week marks three years since 72 people died in the Grenfell Tower fire.
The HCLG committee is calling on the government to make "an absolute commitment" to ensure all buildings with aluminium cladding are made safe by December 2021, and buildings with other forms of dangerous cladding are made safe by June 2022.
The government has pledged £1bn to remove cladding from buildings that are taller than 18m (60ft), but the report says that is "insufficient" and would cover only a third of buildings needing renovation. It also warns strict rules and a short application window will mean many are unable to access funding.
The chairman of the committee, Clive Betts MP, said the taxpayer should not be expected to cover all costs, and called on the government to "take legal action" where necessary.
Mr Betts said: "We have challenged the government to finally commit to removing all forms of dangerous cladding once and for all.
"Three years on from the Grenfell Tower disaster there are still thousands of homeowners living in buildings with some form of dangerous cladding.
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Image: The fire at Grenfell Tower in London killed 72 people
"The financial and emotional toll has been significant, with temporary safety measures costing huge sums and the ongoing stress of living in a property that may not be safe. This is not good enough.
"This should not just be a question of the government, and therefore the taxpayer, stepping in with a blank cheque.
"Those who have caused, and in some cases refuse to rectify, safety issues must be made to pay.
"We call on the government to consider taking legal action to recover the cost of works on individual buildings.
"Compulsory purchase order powers should be used to take direct ownership of buildings where owners have failed to begin remedial work by December 2020.
"It is time for the government to commit to end the scourge of dangerous cladding once and for all. A piecemeal approach that will see homeowners facing many more years of stress and financial hardship - this is not an option."
Image: Residents are facing massive bills to fix fire safety issues in their buildings
A spokesperson for the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government said: "The safety of residents is our top priority and since the Grenfell Tower fire we have worked tirelessly with councils to identify buildings at risk and ensure they are made safe.
"We are providing £1.6bn for the removal and replacement of unsafe cladding from high-rise buildings and are bringing forward the biggest legislative changes in a generation to provide further enforcement powers against those who do not comply with the law and ensuring that residents' safety is at the heart of the construction process.
"Building owners have a legal responsibility to keep their residents safe and whilst we have seen positive action from some, we are clear that more needs to be done to protect their tenants."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--A third of coronavirus patients uncontactable by test and trace scheme

One third of people who tested positive for coronavirus could not be reached by the government 's contact tracing system , or refused to hand over their contacts .
Between 28 May and 3 June , 8,117 people who tested positive for COVID-19 were transferred to the NHS Test and Trace system .
Around two-thirds ( 5,407 ) provided details of people they had come into close contact with to the government scheme , the Department of Health has said .
But 2,710 did not provide information about their contacts or could not be reached .
Some 31,794 contacts were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 85 % ) were able to be contacted and told to stay indoors .
Contacts include people whose cases are currently being managed as part of active outbreak investigations .
The test and trace system is believed to be key to helping ease lockdown measures .
Baroness Harding , the head of the test and trace programme , admitted it was not yet at the `` gold standard '' but said it was now a `` functioning service '' and would improve over the summer .
According to the data , 79 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus were reached within 24 hours , and a further 14 % were reached within 48 hours .
A number of contacts were not able to be identified as the contact details for some of those who tested positive for coronavirus were unavailable or incorrect , or they did not respond .
In other instances , the patient refused to provide details of their contacts .
Some contacts were reached but did not agree to self-isolate , although it is not clear how many refused to comply .
Baroness Harding said the vast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comply and provide contacts , but that it is not a `` mandatory process '' .
`` These are very good numbers for compliance and we want to encourage people to be part of the system rather than have them be fearful about what might happen to them as they go through it , '' she said .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker She was unable to give a date for when the app will be launched , which will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The app has been described as the `` cherry on the cake '' but `` not the cake itself '' .
A further 151 people have died after testing positive for the coronavirus in the UK , taking the total to 41,279 .
The latest figure from the Department of Health is up until 5pm on Wednesday .
It includes those who have died with COVID-19 in hospital , care homes and the community .
The government figures do not include all deaths involving the virus across the UK since the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passed 52,000 .
The daily figures for each UK nation are : • Scotland - five new deaths - total now 2,439 • Northern Ireland - one new death - total now 538 • Wales - six new deaths - total now 1,425 Individual health authorities in the home nations collate their numbers at different times throughout the day and so they may not tally up to the UK government 's overall daily total .


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--Up to 80% with COVID-19 have no symptoms - Hancock

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said up to 80 % of people who test positive for coronavirus in the UK do n't have symptoms .
According to data released by the Office For National ( ONS ) statistics last week , 71 % of people who tested positive for coronavirus had not displayed symptoms .
But speaking at the daily government briefing , Mr Hancock suggested the number of asymptomatic cases could be higher .
The health secretary said : `` The big-picture answer is that yes there are some people who do n't have symptoms but do have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the ONS study we find that around 70-80 % of people who test positive do n't have symptoms .
`` That is quite a significant finding and one of the important things about this disease , in the same way that asymptomatic transmission is one of the things that makes controlling this disease really hard and is novel for any coronavirus , and is one of the things that makes it so difficult . ''
Around 20,000 households were invited to take part in the ONS study , and so far nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one swab for testing .
There has been much debate about how much asymptomatic COVID-19 sufferers contribute to the spread of the virus .
A World Health Organisation ( WHO ) scientist said on Monday it was `` very rare '' for people with no symptoms to pass the disease on , but later stressed this had been based on a relatively small set of studies .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Dr Maria Van Kerkhove said this evidence had come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact tracing '' .
WHO officials said in a briefing on Tuesday there 's `` much that is unknown '' when it comes to asymptomatic transmission .
Mr Hancock said the ONS findings highlighted the importance of people complying with self-isolation under the test and trace scheme , even if they are n't showing symptoms .
`` They are isolating for the period they would be infectious , which breaks the chain , '' he said .
`` That 's why the 14-day isolation is so important to break the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public it was their `` civic duty '' to comply with the scheme .
`` Test and trace is our radar .
You have your part to play , '' he said .
A further 151 people in the UK have died after testing positive for coronavirus , according to Department of Health figures released on Thursday .
This takes the UK 's total number of deaths to 41,279 .

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said up to 80% of people who test positive for coronavirus in the UK don't have symptoms.
According to data released by the Office For National (ONS) statistics last week, 71% of people who tested positive for coronavirus had not displayed symptoms.
But speaking at the daily government briefing, Mr Hancock suggested the number of asymptomatic cases could be higher.
Image: Matt Hancock says the number could be as high as 80%
The health secretary said: "The big-picture answer is that yes there are some people who don't have symptoms but do have the virus.
"And in fact, in the ONS study we find that around 70-80% of people who test positive don't have symptoms.
"That is quite a significant finding and one of the important things about this disease, in the same way that asymptomatic transmission is one of the things that makes controlling this disease really hard and is novel for any coronavirus, and is one of the things that makes it so difficult."
Around 20,000 households were invited to take part in the ONS study, and so far nearly half of households have provided at least one swab for testing.
There has been much debate about how much asymptomatic COVID-19 sufferers contribute to the spread of the virus.
A World Health Organisation (WHO) scientist said on Monday it was "very rare" for people with no symptoms to pass the disease on, but later stressed this had been based on a relatively small set of studies.
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Dr Maria Van Kerkhove said this evidence had come from countries that carried out "detailed contact tracing".
WHO officials said in a briefing on Tuesday there's "much that is unknown" when it comes to asymptomatic transmission.
Mr Hancock said the ONS findings highlighted the importance of people complying with self-isolation under the test and trace scheme, even if they aren't showing symptoms.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 'Good and bad' news from latest coronavirus data
"They are isolating for the period they would be infectious, which breaks the chain," he said.
"That's why the 14-day isolation is so important to break the spread of the virus."
He also told the public it was their "civic duty" to comply with the scheme.
"Test and trace is our radar. You have your part to play," he said.
A further 151 people in the UK have died after testing positive for coronavirus, according to Department of Health figures released on Thursday.
This takes the UK's total number of deaths to 41,279.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--PM to hold crunch Brexit talks with EU chiefs next week

Boris Johnson will hold crunch talks with senior EU figures next week amid stalling negotiations on a post-Brexit trade deal .
The prime minister will hold a `` high level '' meeting with European Council president Charles Michel , European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament president David Sassoli .
The talks , aimed at injecting some political momentum into the negotiations on a future UK-EU relationship , will take place via videoconference on Monday 15 June .
Downing Street said the UK and EU had also agreed an `` intensified timetable '' for negotiations .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of formal negotiating rounds and smaller group meetings , both in London and Brussels assuming public health guidelines enable this , '' Number 10 added .
Negotiations will be held in each of the five weeks between the week beginning 29 June and week beginning 27 July .
It comes after Mr Johnson 's chief negotiator , David Frost , acknowledged the two sides had come `` close to reaching the limits of what we can achieve '' through formal remote rounds of negotiations between officials .
Last week , following the fourth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both the EU and UK admitted progress had been limited .
Michel Barnier , the EU 's chief negotiator , has since hit out at the UK for `` looking to maintain the benefits of being a member state without the constraints '' .
UK negotiators have previously accused the bloc of seeking to impose conditions on the UK which are not found in the EU 's trade agreements with other non-member countries , such as Canada .
The areas of most difficulty in trade negotiations have been outlined by both sides as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' commitments for the UK to abide by EU rules and standards .
The UK officially left the EU in January but is currently in the Brexit transition period - meaning it maintains the status quo of membership of the bloc .
The transition period is set to expire at the end of December , with both sides having until the end of this month to agree an extension .
Mr Johnson has repeatedly said he will not seek to extend the transition period , although Mr Barnier has said the EU is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday , Mr Frost reiterated the government 's policy on the transition period , which he said `` remains valid '' .
He has previously said the UK will not ask to extend the transition period and , if the EU asks to extend , the UK will `` say no '' .
`` Extending would simply prolong negotiations , create even more uncertainty , leave us liable to pay more to the EU in future , and keep us bound by evolving EU laws at a time when we need to control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in April .
`` In short , it is not in the UK 's interest to extend . ''
If the Brexit transition period ends without a deal being struck , the UK will likely have to trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation terms from next year .

Boris Johnson will hold crunch talks with senior EU figures next week amid stalling negotiations on a post-Brexit trade deal.
The prime minister will hold a "high level" meeting with European Council president Charles Michel, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament president David Sassoli.
The talks, aimed at injecting some political momentum into the negotiations on a future UK-EU relationship, will take place via videoconference on Monday 15 June.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:43 Now the UK is out of the EU, what next?
Downing Street said the UK and EU had also agreed an "intensified timetable" for negotiations.
"This new process will involve a mix of formal negotiating rounds and smaller group meetings, both in London and Brussels assuming public health guidelines enable this," Number 10 added.
Negotiations will be held in each of the five weeks between the week beginning 29 June and week beginning 27 July.
It comes after Mr Johnson's chief negotiator, David Frost, acknowledged the two sides had come "close to reaching the limits of what we can achieve" through formal remote rounds of negotiations between officials.
Last week, following the fourth and most recent round of talks, both the EU and UK admitted progress had been limited.
Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator, has since hit out at the UK for "looking to maintain the benefits of
being a member state without the constraints".
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UK negotiators have previously accused the bloc of seeking to impose conditions on the UK which are not found in the EU's trade agreements with other non-member countries, such as Canada.
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The areas of most difficulty in trade negotiations have been outlined by both sides as fisheries and so-called "level playing field" commitments for the UK to abide by EU rules and standards.
The UK officially left the EU in January but is currently in the Brexit transition period - meaning it maintains the status quo of membership of the bloc.
The transition period is set to expire at the end of December, with both sides having until the end of this month to agree an extension.
Mr Johnson has repeatedly said he will not seek to extend the transition period, although Mr Barnier has said the EU is in favour of an extension.
On Thursday, Mr Frost reiterated the government's policy on the transition period, which he said "remains valid".
He has previously said the UK will not ask to extend the transition period and, if the EU asks to extend, the UK will "say no".
"Extending would simply prolong negotiations, create even more uncertainty, leave us liable to pay more to the EU in future, and keep us bound by evolving EU laws at a time when we need to control our own affairs," Mr Frost said in April.
"In short, it is not in the UK's interest to extend."
If the Brexit transition period ends without a deal being struck, the UK will likely have to trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation terms from next year.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--'I will not be silenced': Priti Patel dismisses claims of 'gaslighting' in bitter race row

Home Secretary Priti Patel has said she `` will not be silenced '' after Labour MPs accused her of using her heritage and experience of racism to `` gaslight other minority communities '' .
In an escalation of a bitter race row that began in the wake of Black Lives Matter protests over the weekend , several opposition MPs from BAME backgrounds have warned Ms Patel that her response to the demonstrations risks undermining the concerns that have been raised by black communities .
Their message to the home secretary came via a letter sent by shadow minister for community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of Labour colleagues from ethnic minority groups .
Ms Patel shared the correspondence on Twitter , saying she was `` sad '' to have received it and `` will not be silenced '' by those who have criticised her .
She tweeted : `` Sad to have just received this letter .
I will not be silenced by @ UKLabour MPs who continue to dismiss the contributions of those who do n't conform to their view of how ethnic minorities should behave . ''
The letter referred to comments made by Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK , which she condemned for going against the government 's coronavirus social distancing rules .
She also criticised the toppling of a statue of slaver Edward Colston in Bristol , saying it undermined the protests .
When challenged by Labour 's Florence Eshalomi earlier this week as to whether she does `` actually understand the anger and frustration felt by so many people '' in the UK , Ms Patel recounted her own experience of racism .
Ms Patel rejected claims the government does not understand racial inequality and recalled being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child in the playground .
She told the Commons of other experiences she has had of racism in the UK , and warned that she would `` not take lectures '' from opposition MPs over the issue .
In response to Ms Patel 's comments , the Labour MPs said in their letter : `` Our shared experiences allow us to feel the pain that communities feel , when they face racism , they allow us to show solidarity towards a common cause ; they do not allow us to define , silence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minority groups may face .
`` Being a person of colour does not automatically make you an authority on all forms of racism . ''
The MPs called on the home secretary to `` reflect on your words and to consider the impact it had towards black communities in the UK trying to highlight their voices against racism '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ms Shah also posted on Twitter : `` Shared feelings allow us to show solidarity not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The only silence we do n't need is inaction , '' she added , as she called on the government to implement the recommendations of recent reports into the justice system and Windrush scandal .
`` If # Blacklivesmatter then do n't just talk the talk , walk the walk , '' she continued .
Responding to the Labour MPs ' letter to his fellow cabinet minister , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : `` Of course Priti Patel was not wrong to talk of her personal experiences of racism .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this divisive identity politics that 's being levelled at Priti Patel .
`` I 'm incredibly proud to be part of the most diverse government in history . ''
He added : `` We do n't think there 's such a thing as the wrong type of BAME , we think that people are equal .
`` And that 's what we need to see as a society . ''
During Monday 's exchange between Ms Patel and Ms Eshalomi in the Commons , the home secretary was told that `` black lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government doing something about that '' .
Ms Patel said the Labour MP had `` effectively said that this government does n't understand racial inequality '' .
She continued : `` Well , on that basis , it must have been a very different home secretary who as a child was frequently called a P**i in the playground .
`` A very different home secretary who was racially abused in the streets or even advised to drop her surname and use her husband 's in order to advance her career .
`` A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guardian newspaper as a fat cow with a ring through its nose - something that was not only racist but offensive , both culturally and religiously . ''
Ms Patel continued : `` This is hardly an example of respect , equality , tolerance or fairness .
`` So , when it comes to racism , sexism , tolerance for social justice , I will not take lectures from the other side of the House .
`` I have already said repeatedly there is no place for racism in our country or in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too many people are too willing , too casual , to dismiss the contributions of those who do n't necessarily conform to preconceived views or ideologies about how ethnic minorities should behave or think .
`` This , in my view , is racist in itself . ''
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to Come ?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a question to our panel , please send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk .

Home Secretary Priti Patel has said she "will not be silenced" after Labour MPs accused her of using her heritage and experience of racism to "gaslight other minority communities".
In an escalation of a bitter race row that began in the wake of Black Lives Matter protests over the weekend, several opposition MPs from BAME backgrounds have warned Ms Patel that her response to the demonstrations risks undermining the concerns that have been raised by black communities.
Their message to the home secretary came via a letter sent by shadow minister for community cohesion Naz Shah, co-signed by a number of Labour colleagues from ethnic minority groups.
Ms Patel shared the correspondence on Twitter, saying she was "sad" to have received it and "will not be silenced" by those who have criticised her.
She tweeted: "Sad to have just received this letter. I will not be silenced by @UKLabour MPs who continue to dismiss the contributions of those who don't conform to their view of how ethnic minorities should behave."
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
The letter referred to comments made by Ms Patel in the Commons following protests across the UK, which she condemned for going against the government's coronavirus social distancing rules.
She also criticised the toppling of a statue of slaver Edward Colston in Bristol, saying it undermined the protests.
When challenged by Labour's Florence Eshalomi earlier this week as to whether she does "actually understand the anger and frustration felt by so many people" in the UK, Ms Patel recounted her own experience of racism.
Ms Patel rejected claims the government does not understand racial inequality and recalled being called a "P**i" as a child in the playground.
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She told the Commons of other experiences she has had of racism in the UK, and warned that she would "not take lectures" from opposition MPs over the issue.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:13 Home secretary recalls being 'racially abused in the streets'
In response to Ms Patel's comments, the Labour MPs said in their letter: "Our shared experiences allow us to feel the pain that communities feel, when they face racism, they allow us to show solidarity towards a common cause; they do not allow us to define, silence or impede on the feelings that other minority groups may face.
"Being a person of colour does not automatically make you an authority on all forms of racism."
The MPs called on the home secretary to "reflect on your words and to consider the impact it had towards black communities in the UK trying to highlight their voices against racism".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 Priti Patel: Toppling statue 'utterly disgraceful'
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ms Shah also posted on Twitter: "Shared feelings allow us to show solidarity not gaslight other minority communities."
"The only silence we don't need is inaction," she added, as she called on the government to implement the recommendations of recent reports into the justice system and Windrush scandal.
"If #Blacklivesmatter then don't just talk the talk, walk the walk," she continued.
Responding to the Labour MPs' letter to his fellow cabinet minister, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "Of course Priti Patel was not wrong to talk of her personal experiences of racism.
"I've seen this letter and I abhor this divisive identity politics that's being levelled at Priti Patel.
"I'm incredibly proud to be part of the most diverse government in history."
He added: "We don't think there's such a thing as the wrong type of BAME, we think that people are equal.
"And that's what we need to see as a society."
During Monday's exchange between Ms Patel and Ms Eshalomi in the Commons, the home secretary was told that "black lives matter and we need to see this government doing something about that".
Ms Patel said the Labour MP had "effectively said that this government doesn't understand racial inequality".
She continued: "Well, on that basis, it must have been a very different home secretary who as a child was frequently called a P**i in the playground.
"A very different home secretary who was racially abused in the streets or even advised to drop her surname and use her husband's in order to advance her career.
"A different home secretary recently characterised in The Guardian newspaper as a fat cow with a ring through its nose - something that was not only racist but offensive, both culturally and religiously."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:04 Thousands protest in London despite government pleas
Ms Patel continued: "This is hardly an example of respect, equality, tolerance or fairness.
"So, when it comes to racism, sexism, tolerance for social justice, I will not take lectures from the other side of the House.
"I have already said repeatedly there is no place for racism in our country or in society.
"And, sadly, too many people are too willing, too casual, to dismiss the contributions of those who don't necessarily conform to preconceived views or ideologies about how ethnic minorities should behave or think.
"This, in my view, is racist in itself."
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-11--Raab says China can still 'step back from brink' to allow Hong Kong autonomy

Britain 's foreign secretary has said China can still `` step back from the brink '' to allow Hong Kong its own autonomy as he called for an independent inquiry into the city 's protests .
Dominic Raab expressed his `` deep concern '' for the ongoing unrest and China 's attempt to enforce its national security law on the former British colony .
In the Foreign Office 's latest six-month report to parliament on Hong Kong , covering 1 July to 31 December last year , Mr Raab also called the detention and torture of British Consulate worker Simon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and disgraceful '' .
Mr Raab wrote : `` The solution to this unrest and its underlying causes must come from Hong Kong , and can not be imposed from mainland China .
`` Britain says the way through the current situation in Hong Kong is clear : all sides must invest in dialogue and reconciliation , underpinned by a robust , independent inquiry .
`` It is incumbent on the Hong Kong government to acknowledge not just the economic causes of the unrest , but also its people 's concerns about their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administrative region 's autonomy was guaranteed for 50 years from the handover in 1997 under the `` one country , two systems '' agreement signed in 1984 by then Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher .
The UK , along with the US , Australia and Canada , has criticised China for the new national security law , saying it would breach the Sino-British agreement and threaten its freedoms .
Last week , Mr Raab told Sky News the UK was prepared to sacrifice a free trade deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kong .
The city was rocked by months of pro-democracy protests last year over an unsuccessful attempt to introduce an extradition law which could mean sending suspects to China .
Following a lull during the coronavirus epidemic , protests have started up again after China suddenly introduced a resolution to enforce a national security law which would make secession , subversion `` terrorism '' or any foreign interference in Hong Kong illegal .
`` There is still time for China to re-consider , to step back from the brink and respect Hong Kong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obligations , '' Mr Raab wrote in a foreword to the report , which he said addressed subsequent events after the period the report covered .
Last week , the Hong Kong government voted to make mocking China 's national anthem a crime - on the same day as thousands disobeyed police to hold the annual vigil for those who were killed in Tiananmen Square in 1980 .
Boris Johnson has pledged to give Hong Kong 's 350,000 British National Overseas passport holders - and the 2.5 million who are eligible - UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is given the green light .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker

Britain's foreign secretary has said China can still "step back from the brink" to allow Hong Kong its own autonomy as he called for an independent inquiry into the city's protests.
Dominic Raab expressed his "deep concern" for the ongoing unrest and China's attempt to enforce its national security law on the former British colony.
In the Foreign Office's latest six-month report to parliament on Hong Kong, covering 1 July to 31 December last year, Mr Raab also called the detention and torture of British Consulate worker Simon Cheng in China last year "brutal and disgraceful".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:43 UK 'will stand up' for Hong Kong's people
Mr Raab wrote: "The solution to this unrest and its underlying causes must come from Hong Kong, and cannot be imposed from mainland China.
"Britain says the way through the current situation in Hong Kong is clear: all sides must invest in dialogue and reconciliation, underpinned by a robust, independent inquiry.
"It is incumbent on the Hong Kong government to acknowledge not just the economic causes of the unrest, but also its people's concerns about their freedoms and values."
The special administrative region's autonomy was guaranteed for 50 years from the handover in 1997 under the "one country, two systems" agreement signed in 1984 by then Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
The UK, along with the US, Australia and Canada, has criticised China for the new national security law, saying it would breach the Sino-British agreement and threaten its freedoms.
Last week, Mr Raab told Sky News the UK was prepared to sacrifice a free trade deal with China to protect the people of Hong Kong.
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The city was rocked by months of pro-democracy protests last year over an unsuccessful attempt to introduce an extradition law which could mean sending suspects to China.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 HK pro-democracy activists: 'We will never surrender'
Following a lull during the coronavirus epidemic, protests have started up again after China suddenly introduced a resolution to enforce a national security law which would make secession, subversion "terrorism" or any foreign interference in Hong Kong illegal.
"There is still time for China to re-consider, to step back from the brink and respect Hong Kong's autonomy and respect its own international obligations," Mr Raab wrote in a foreword to the report, which he said addressed subsequent events after the period the report covered.
Image: Thousands of Hong Kongers socially distanced at a banned Tiananmen vigil in Victoria Park, Hong Kong on 4 June
Image: China's President Xi Jinping (C) applauds after the National People's Congress approves a proposal to draft a Hong Kong security law
Last week, the Hong Kong government voted to make mocking China's national anthem a crime - on the same day as thousands disobeyed police to hold the annual vigil for those who were killed in Tiananmen Square in 1980.
Boris Johnson has pledged to give Hong Kong's 350,000 British National Overseas passport holders - and the 2.5 million who are eligible - UK visa rights if the national security law is given the green light.
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