skynewspolitics--2020-11-01--Instead of leading the UK from the front the PM has been forced to act

Eight months since the first lockdown and here we are again .
On Thursday , England will be placed into a second national shutdown for at least four weeks .
It is a giant U-turn from a prime minister that for weeks has been insisting a national lockdown would not just be unnecessary , but a `` disaster '' for the country , bringing with it huge misery .
The prime minister was told by his scientific advisory group weeks ago - 21 September to be exact - that a circuit breaker `` should be considered for immediate effect '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the closure of bars , restaurants , cafes , indoor gyms and hairdressers to `` return COVID-19 incidence to low levels '' .
He decided to ignore that advice , even as some of his allies whispered that a national lockdown looked inevitable .
Now , five weeks later , he has been forced to act .
It is deeply uncomfortable for Boris Johnson .
Instead of leading the UK from the front , he looks like he 's following the footsteps of other national leaders - Nicola Sturgeon , Arlene Foster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientific advice and put Scotland , Northern Ireland and Wales into far tougher restrictions sooner in the hope they can emerge from lockdown next month as England hunkers down for a long winter .
He has also opened up a flank to Sir Keir Starmer who saw the writing on the wall after the scientists ' advice recommending a circuit breaker was published earlier this month and demanded that national lockdown .
At the time the prime minister accused him of `` political opportunism '' .
Now `` Captain Hindsight '' looks like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lacked .
Cabinet colleagues briefed by the PM on Saturday also told me it was deeply personally uncomfortable for a political leader who considers himself a libertarian to force England into further restrictions .
But with the second wave of coronavirus threatening to be more deadly that the first and the NHS on the brink , Mr Johnson had run out of options .
Failure to act he said on Saturday `` could see deaths in this country running at several thousand a day , a peak of mortality even higher than what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS would be `` forced to choose which patients to treat , who would get oxygen and who would n't , who would live and who would die '' .
Now the question is not whether the national lockdown is a disaster , but rather whether the prime minister 's decision not to act earlier may in the end precipitate an even bigger disaster , as 56 million people face now a longer shutdown , with more lives at risk and the NHS under significantly more threat than it might have been had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson on Saturday whether he regretted not following the scientific advice more closely , he defended his decision to `` balance that advice with the consequences for people 's lives '' '' I 'm not going to pretend to you these judgments are n't incredibly difficult .
They are incredibly difficult .
We have to change with the changing pattern of the virus , '' he told me .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The data published by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worsening scenario and the difficulties besetting Mr Johnson are being repeated in other European nations also grappling with the second edge of this disease .
But the prime minister also chose to discard the scientific advice recommending tougher measures back in September , as he leaned into the Treasury and his Conservative backbenchers and away from his scientific experts .
What no one can say is whether this lockdown now will be enough to reduce the rate of infections in order that we can see our family and friends at Christmas once more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as frustration and fatigue kicks in , compliance will fall .
The prime minister once again has implored us to stay home to protect the NHS and save lives .
But is it all too little too late ?
And how damaging will that be not just to the prime minister but to the people he leads .

Eight months since the first lockdown and here we are again.
On Thursday, England will be placed into a second national shutdown for at least four weeks.
It is a giant U-turn from a prime minister that for weeks has been insisting a national lockdown would not just be unnecessary, but a "disaster" for the country, bringing with it huge misery.
The prime minister was told by his scientific advisory group weeks ago - 21 September to be exact - that a circuit breaker "should be considered for immediate effect" alongside a ban on all household mixing and the closure of bars, restaurants, cafes, indoor gyms and hairdressers to "return COVID-19 incidence to low levels".
He decided to ignore that advice, even as some of his allies whispered that a national lockdown looked inevitable. Now, five weeks later, he has been forced to act.
It is deeply uncomfortable for Boris Johnson.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:43 People in England must stay at home from 5 November to 2 December
Instead of leading the UK from the front, he looks like he's following the footsteps of other national leaders - Nicola Sturgeon, Arlene Foster, Mark Drakeford - who followed the scientific advice and put Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales into far tougher restrictions sooner in the hope they can emerge from lockdown next month as England hunkers down for a long winter.
He has also opened up a flank to Sir Keir Starmer who saw the writing on the wall after the scientists' advice recommending a circuit breaker was published earlier this month and demanded that national lockdown.
At the time the prime minister accused him of "political opportunism".
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Now "Captain Hindsight" looks like he has the foresight the prime minister lacked.
Cabinet colleagues briefed by the PM on Saturday also told me it was deeply personally uncomfortable for a political leader who considers himself a libertarian to force England into further restrictions.
But with the second wave of coronavirus threatening to be more deadly that the first and the NHS on the brink, Mr Johnson had run out of options.
Failure to act he said on Saturday "could see deaths in this country running at several thousand a day, a peak of mortality even higher than what we saw in April".
The NHS would be "forced to choose which patients to treat, who would get oxygen and who wouldn't, who would live and who would die".
Image: Mr Johnson's team of scientists recommended a national lockdown in September
Now the question is not whether the national lockdown is a disaster, but rather whether the prime minister's decision not to act earlier may in the end precipitate an even bigger disaster, as 56 million people face now a longer shutdown, with more lives at risk and the NHS under significantly more threat than it might have been had he acted sooner.
When I asked Mr Johnson on Saturday whether he regretted not following the scientific advice more closely, he defended his decision to "balance that advice with the consequences for people's lives"
"I'm not going to pretend to you these judgments aren't incredibly difficult. They are incredibly difficult. We have to change with the changing pattern of the virus," he told me.
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The data published by the government on Saturday points to a worsening scenario and the difficulties besetting Mr Johnson are being repeated in other European nations also grappling with the second edge of this disease.
But the prime minister also chose to discard the scientific advice recommending tougher measures back in September, as he leaned into the Treasury and his Conservative backbenchers and away from his scientific experts.
What no one can say is whether this lockdown now will be enough to reduce the rate of infections in order that we can see our family and friends at Christmas once more.
There are fears in government that as frustration and fatigue kicks in, compliance will fall. The prime minister once again has implored us to stay home to protect the NHS and save lives.
But is it all too little too late? And how damaging will that be not just to the prime minister but to the people he leads.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-01--PM to insist lockdown will end on 2 December

Boris Johnson will today insist the national lockdown in England will end on 2 December , despite a member of his cabinet indicating the new measures could be extended beyond that date .
Growing numbers of senior Conservative backbenchers have signalled their opposition to the measures due to come into effect on Thursday , while Labour have said the prime minister 's failure to act sooner will have cost lives and caused further damage to the economy .
In a statement to MPs , Mr Johnson will say there is `` no alternative '' to a second national lockdown in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to opt for the regional tier system in October .
He will also seek to reassure concerned Conservative backbenchers that it remains his intention to ease restrictions on 2 December , after Michael Gove earlier told Sky 's Sophy Ridge the shutdown could be extended beyond that date .
The prime minister is expected to say : `` At the end of four weeks , on Wednesday 2 December , we will seek to ease restrictions , going back into the tiered system on a local and regional basis according to the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why the lockdown is now needed , he will say : `` Models of our scientists suggest that unless we act now , we could see deaths over the winter that are twice as bad or more compared with the first wave . ''
`` Faced with these latest figures , there is no alternative but to take further action at a national level . ''
Mr Johnson will also argue he was right to have opted for a regional approach , rather than introducing a national `` circuit breaker '' lockdown last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommended .
`` I know some in the House believe we should have reached this decision earlier , but I believe it was right to try every possible option to get this virus under control at a local level , with strong local action and strong local leadership , '' the prime minister is expected to say .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer earlier rejected that argument , telling Sky News the delay had proved `` costly '' .
`` We called for a circuit break three weeks ago to coincide with half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has been costly , but these measures are necessary and we will vote in favour of them , '' he said .
Labour 's support for the new measures means there is little chance that the government will fail to pass the proposals when MPs vote on Wednesday , but influential Conservative backbenchers are voicing their opposition to the plans .
Former party leader Iain Duncan Smith described the new national lockdown as a `` body blow for the British people '' .
Former cabinet minister David Davis told Sky News he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs a meaningful role in determining how long any lockdown should be allowed to continue .
`` What I want is an amendable motion , keeping parliament informed , giving us a say so on 2 December as to whether we continue with this .
Really what I want to do is create a very strong parliamentary pressure on the government to deliver the exit .
At the moment it has not delivered the exit and it has got to deliver the exit , '' Mr. Davis said .
The chairman of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brady , told BBC Radio 4 's Westminster Hour he was very likely to vote against the proposals , saying he wanted an `` absolute guarantee '' that MPs will be offered further opportunities to vote on how long any lockdown would be in place .
Former work and pensions secretary Esther McVey has also said she will vote against the new lockdown measures .
In a social media post she wrote `` the lockdown cure is causing more harm than COVID '' .

Boris Johnson will today insist the national lockdown in England is time limited and will signal his determination for it to end on 2 December, despite a member of his cabinet indicating the new measures could be extended beyond that date.
Growing numbers of senior Conservative backbenchers have signalled their opposition to the measures due to come into effect on Thursday, while Labour have said the prime minister's failure to act sooner will have cost lives and caused further damage to the economy.
In a statement to MPs, Mr Johnson will say there is "no alternative" to a second national lockdown in England, but will defend his decision to opt for the regional tier system in October.
Image: The prime minister will make a speech on Monday
He will also seek to reassure concerned Conservative backbenchers that it remains his intention to ease restrictions on 2 December, after Michael Gove earlier told Sky's Sophy Ridge the shutdown could be extended beyond that date.
The prime minister is expected to say: "At the end of four weeks, on Wednesday 2 December, we will seek to ease restrictions, going back into the tiered system on a local and regional basis according to the latest data and trends."
Setting out why the lockdown is now needed, he will say: "Models of our scientists suggest that unless we act now, we could see deaths over the winter that are twice as bad or more compared with the first wave."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:25 England lockdown 'may be longer than a month'
"Faced with these latest figures, there is no alternative but to take further action at a national level."
Mr Johnson will also argue he was right to have opted for a regional approach, rather than introducing a national "circuit breaker" lockdown last month, as his scientific advisers had recommended.
"I know some in the House believe we should have reached this decision earlier, but I believe it was right to try every possible option to get this virus under control at a local level, with strong local action and strong local leadership," the prime minister is expected to say.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:18 The second lockdown rules explained
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer earlier rejected that argument, telling Sky News the delay had proved "costly".
"We called for a circuit break three weeks ago to coincide with half term so there has been a delay which has been costly, but these measures are necessary and we will vote in favour of them," he said.
Labour's support for the new measures means there is little chance that the government will fail to pass the proposals when MPs vote on Wednesday, but influential Conservative backbenchers are voicing their opposition to the plans.
Former party leader Iain Duncan Smith described the new national lockdown as a "body blow for the British people".
Former cabinet minister David Davis told Sky News he was determined to ensure the government allow MPs a meaningful role in determining how long any lockdown should be allowed to continue.
"What I want is an amendable motion, keeping parliament informed, giving us a say so on 2 December as to whether we continue with this. Really what I want to do is create a very strong parliamentary pressure on the government to deliver the exit. At the moment it has not delivered the exit and it has got to deliver the exit," Mr. Davis said.
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The chairman of the Conservative backbench 1922 Committee, Sir Graham Brady, told BBC Radio 4's Westminster Hour he was very likely to vote against the proposals, saying he wanted an "absolute guarantee" that MPs will be offered further opportunities to vote on how long any lockdown would be in place.
Former work and pensions secretary Esther McVey has also said she will vote against the new lockdown measures. In a social media post she wrote "the lockdown cure is causing more harm than COVID".


skynewspolitics--2020-11-01--Brexit Party re-branding as anti-lockdown party Reform UK

The Brexit Party has applied to change its name to Reform UK , admitting it is `` time to re-direct our energies '' .
When the Brexit Party held its policy launch ahead of last year 's general election , leader Nigel Farage said the organisation would most likely never be in power but could be the driving force behind getting governments to `` support the little people '' .
In a piece written for The Daily Telegraph , the party said it would continue to keep a `` close eye '' on Brexit but would focus more strongly on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The party listed the House of Lords , the BBC , the voting process , law and order , and immigration , criticising `` badly run , wasteful quangos '' and describing the Home Office as `` not fit for purpose '' .
But the `` single most pressing issue '' , it said , was the government 's `` woeful response '' to the coronavirus pandemic .
`` The 'strategy ' has been to terrify the nation into submission , coupled with a barrage of lockdowns , rules , regulations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for time , in the hope that a vaccine miraculously comes along , '' it said .
`` This is no way to tackle a disease which may be around for a long time , perhaps forever .
The consequences to wider health and the economy have been devastating .
`` Suicides are soaring , from students imprisoned in halls of residence to 88-year-old ladies who can not see their relatives and naturally wonder : what is the point of life ? ''
Tens of thousands of people have died with COVID-19 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had `` lost touch with a nation divided between the terrified and the furious '' .
`` The debate over how to respond to COVID is becoming even more toxic than that over Brexit , '' it continued , before adding : `` Lockdowns do n't work : in fact , they cause more harm than good . ''
Instead , the party will back the Great Barrington Declaration , a letter organised by prominent advocates of herd immunity , which was signed by more than 15,000 scientists and medical practitioners , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the general public .
Although , Sky News later found dozens of fake names on the list of medical signatories .
The party said Reform UK would promote `` focused protection ... targeting resources at those most at risk '' , adding that these people should `` not be criminalised for the simple acts that make life worth living , particularly in their final years '' .
`` The rest of the population should , with good hygiene measures and a dose of common sense , get on with life , '' it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immunity in the population .
The young act as warriors , creating a shield of protection . ''

The Brexit Party has applied to change its name to Reform UK, admitting it is "time to re-direct our energies".
When the Brexit Party held its policy launch ahead of last year's general election, leader Nigel Farage said the organisation would most likely never be in power but could be the driving force behind getting governments to "support the little people".
In a piece written for The Daily Telegraph, the party said it would continue to keep a "close eye" on Brexit but would focus more strongly on the institutions and policies that require change.
Image: The Brexit Party is changing its name
The party listed the House of Lords, the BBC, the voting process, law and order, and immigration, criticising "badly run, wasteful quangos" and describing the Home Office as "not fit for purpose".
But the "single most pressing issue", it said, was the government's "woeful response" to the coronavirus pandemic.
"The 'strategy' has been to terrify the nation into submission, coupled with a barrage of lockdowns, rules, regulations and threats. It is all about playing for time, in the hope that a vaccine miraculously comes along," it said.
"This is no way to tackle a disease which may be around for a long time, perhaps forever. The consequences to wider health and the economy have been devastating.
"Suicides are soaring, from students imprisoned in halls of residence to 88-year-old ladies who cannot see their relatives and naturally wonder: what is the point of life?"
Tens of thousands of people have died with COVID-19 in the UK but the party said ministers had "lost touch with a nation divided between the terrified and the furious".
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"The debate over how to respond to COVID is becoming even more toxic than that over Brexit," it continued, before adding: "Lockdowns don't work: in fact, they cause more harm than good."
Instead, the party will back the Great Barrington Declaration, a letter organised by prominent advocates of herd immunity, which was signed by more than 15,000 scientists and medical practitioners, as well as more than 150,000 members of the general public.
Although, Sky News later found dozens of fake names on the list of medical signatories.
The party said Reform UK would promote "focused protection... targeting resources at those most at risk", adding that these people should "not be criminalised for the simple acts that make life worth living, particularly in their final years".
"The rest of the population should, with good hygiene measures and a dose of common sense, get on with life," it said. "This way we build immunity in the population. The young act as warriors, creating a shield of protection."


skynewspolitics--2020-11-01--Ex-Tory leader: PM 'giving in' to scientific advisers and 'marching' England back into lockdown

Boris Johnson has been accused by a former Conservative leader of `` giving in '' to the government 's scientific advisers and `` marching England back into another lockdown '' .
Iain Duncan Smith said the announcement of a second national shutdown is a `` body blow to the British people '' .
In a news conference on Saturday , the prime minister said there will be a month-long lockdown in England that will begin on Thursday .
Before that , MPs will vote on the latest restrictions on Wednesday .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said his party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , meaning the government wo n't be defeated in the Commons .
But a number of Conservative MPs have voiced their unhappiness and spoken out about the country going back into lockdown again .
Mr Duncan Smith , who was Conservative leader from 2001 to 2003 , said the lockdown comes `` just as the economy was picking up , even giving cause for optimism '' .
He added : `` The way that the government 's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) has pressurised the government into taking this decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advisers advise & ministers decide .
Yet that system has broken down , with SAGE believing its advice to be more like commandments written on stone and its members publicly lecturing the government over the airways when it disagrees .
`` This is despite the fact that many of its recommendations have been hotly disputed by other reputable scientists . ''
Sir Desmond Swayne , Tory MP for New Forest West in Hampshire , told Sky News `` it will take a huge amount of persuasion for me to vote for this disastrous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm not persuaded that the cost of the intervention we 're about to make , with disastrous consequences , is worth the candle , '' he said .
`` I think we 've chosen a course that is worse than deaths from the virus . ''
Sir Robert Syms has said he will vote against a second lockdown .
`` Rather underwhelmed by [ the ] press conference , expected better case for lockdown and more detail , '' the MP for Poole in Dorset wrote on Twitter after Mr Johnson 's news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also voiced scepticism , tweeting : `` If the case for lock down is worry about NHS capacity , why is the forecast for hospital admissions a huge range including fewer cases than the NHS managed earlier this year ? ''
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He added in another message : `` What is the exit strategy from national lock down ? ''
David Davis , who was Brexit secretary under Theresa May , has suggested that a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the shutdown .
Speaking to Times Radio before the PM 's announcement , he said MPs have `` got to see the data '' behind the move in order to be convinced .
Meanwhile , the government has been accused of displaying `` contempt '' for leaders in the North after announcing a national lockdown and extending the furlough scheme .
Politicians there had been calling for employees of businesses forced to close under Tier 3 restrictions to be paid 80 % of their wages , but workers were instead offered 67 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mayor Joe Anderson told BBC Breakfast : `` It 's interesting as well , is n't it , that of course yesterday evening they announced that the furlough scheme would return at 80 % , something that Andy Burnham , Steve Rotheram , leaders of the North , myself included , have been calling for .
`` That 's the point about contempt ... that they dismissed the North 's call for the furlough scheme to be introduced in Tier 3 but now have all of a sudden found the 80 % furlough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown . ''
Replying to a tweet from Chancellor Rishi Sunak , Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said : `` But when we asked you to do that for the lowest-paid people in the North , you refused .
People here will remember that . ''
And Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram tweeted : `` Now we know for sure that the government thinks workers in the North were worth 13 % less than those in the South . ''

Boris Johnson has been accused by a former Conservative leader of "giving in" to the government's scientific advisers and "marching England back into another lockdown".
Iain Duncan Smith said the announcement of a second national shutdown is a "body blow to the British people".
In a news conference on Saturday, the prime minister said there will be a month-long lockdown in England that will begin on Thursday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:25 Gove: England lockdown 'may be longer than a month'
Before that, MPs will vote on the latest restrictions on Wednesday.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said his party will vote in favour of the lockdown, meaning the government won't be defeated in the Commons.
But a number of Conservative MPs have voiced their unhappiness and spoken out about the country going back into lockdown again.
Mr Duncan Smith, who was Conservative leader from 2001 to 2003, said the lockdown comes "just as the economy was picking up, even giving cause for optimism".
He added: "The way that the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) has pressurised the government into taking this decision has been unprecedented.
"Normally, advisers advise & ministers decide. Yet that system has broken down, with SAGE believing its advice to be more like commandments written on stone and its members publicly lecturing the government over the airways when it disagrees.
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"This is despite the fact that many of its recommendations have been hotly disputed by other reputable scientists."
Sir Desmond Swayne, Tory MP for New Forest West in Hampshire, told Sky News "it will take a huge amount of persuasion for me to vote for this disastrous course of action".
"I'm not persuaded that the cost of the intervention we're about to make, with disastrous consequences, is worth the candle," he said.
"I think we've chosen a course that is worse than deaths from the virus."
Sir Robert Syms has said he will vote against a second lockdown.
"Rather underwhelmed by [the] press conference, expected better case for lockdown and more detail," the MP for Poole in Dorset wrote on Twitter after Mr Johnson's news conference.
Wokingham MP John Redwood has also voiced scepticism, tweeting: "If the case for lock down is worry about NHS capacity, why is the forecast for hospital admissions a huge range including fewer cases than the NHS managed earlier this year?"
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He added in another message: "What is the exit strategy from national lock down?"
David Davis, who was Brexit secretary under Theresa May, has suggested that a number of his Conservative colleagues could vote against the shutdown.
Speaking to Times Radio before the PM's announcement, he said MPs have "got to see the data" behind the move in order to be convinced.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:42 England's second lockdown: PM details new rules
Meanwhile, the government has been accused of displaying "contempt" for leaders in the North after announcing a national lockdown and extending the furlough scheme.
Politicians there had been calling for employees of businesses forced to close under Tier 3 restrictions to be paid 80% of their wages, but workers were instead offered 67% through the Job Support Scheme.
Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson told BBC Breakfast: "It's interesting as well, isn't it, that of course yesterday evening they announced that the furlough scheme would return at 80%, something that Andy Burnham, Steve Rotheram, leaders of the North, myself included, have been calling for.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Whitty: COVID-19 prevalence is going up extremely rapidly
"That's the point about contempt... that they dismissed the North's call for the furlough scheme to be introduced in Tier 3 but now have all of a sudden found the 80% furlough scheme for a Tier 4 or national lockdown."
Replying to a tweet from Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said: "But when we asked you to do that for the lowest-paid people in the North, you refused. People here will remember that."
And Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram tweeted: "Now we know for sure that the government thinks workers in the North were worth 13% less than those in the South."


skynewspolitics--2020-11-01--Five things we learnt from this week's Sophy Ridge On Sunday

A lockdown , surging infections , accusations of too little too late and a body blow for business .
You 'd be forgiven for feeling a certain amount of deja vu , but it 's clear the second wave of COVID-19 comes with new concerns and challenges .
The national lockdown in England could be extended beyond 2 December , Michael Gove has told Sophy Ridge on Sunday .
Asked if an extension could happen , he first said `` we 're going to review [ the lockdown ] on the 2nd of December '' and when pressed admitted that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Cabinet Office minister 's answer will unsettle Conservatives ( and others ) afraid of mission creep and an extension if cases stay high .
It bears repeating that the first nationwide lockdown was initially announced for at least three weeks with constant review thereafter , for all that it then lasted for three months .
While the new lockdown is England-specific , there are still questions about how it ( and the corresponding financial support ) meshes with the patchwork of regional , `` firebreak '' or `` circuit break '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Two weeks before , Mr Gove had sat in the same chair in the same studio and told Sophy that `` no '' , there would not be a national lockdown .
He had been responding to Labour calls for a short `` circuit breaker '' lockdown , after government scientific advisory group SAGE called for one to be considered in September .
Asked how people could trust him now , Mr Gove said the government had been told `` a regional approach could succeed in reducing the spread '' of infections from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but `` the virus has been spreading faster than predicted '' .
The SAGE papers from September did make clear that the UK faced an `` exponential rise in cases '' and Boris Johnson 's old jibe that Sir Keir Starmer is `` Captain Hindsight '' looks a little thinner in the light of Saturday 's U-turn .
Christmas is unlikely to be as merry as hoped according to a member of SAGE , for all that the new lockdown is hopefully ending at the start of December .
Former chief scientific adviser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indifferent to what day of the week it is and indeed whether it 's Christmas or any other festival '' , saying `` it does seem a bit unlikely that it is going to be a completely normal Christmas '' .
It 's the point that those who 've argued for a relaxation of the rules on Christmas Day are having to reckon with , given that winter temperatures and a lack of social distancing are ideal conditions for the virus .
He said it was a `` possibility '' that the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it 's `` not as severe as it was the first time round '' and cases are `` unlikely this time to come down quite as fast '' .
A reminder here that if restrictions lasted longer than last time it would take us substantially into early 2021 .
Boris Johnson needs to `` make it absolutely clear that he backs business '' and his relationship with businesses `` could be a lot better '' , the outgoing director-general of the CBI said .
Asked if the man reputed to have said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ referendum was `` pro-business '' , Dame Carolyn Fairbairn said : `` I think he is in his bones but what we now need to see is that in action… it has been a disappointment to me that there has n't been a closer relationship [ with No 10 ] … I think this is an opportunity for the prime minister to make it absolutely clear that he backs business . ''
Citing collaboration with the Trades Union Congress , she said `` the public really want to see different parts of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prime minister has an opportunity to stand for that and part of that is going to be about burying hatchets '' .
One of the key debates of the first lockdown centred around the reopening of education , but today a Labour frontbencher delivered a public rebuke to unions calling for schools to be closed again .
Labour 's Bridget Phillipson said `` they should stay open '' , adding : `` Of course , I understand the concerns that unions are expressing on this , but I 've seen the impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children in places like Sunderland in the North East , where they have been out of school for an extended period of time , they ca n't afford to lose that education , we ca n't see that happen again . ''
It was a direct response to the National Education Union 's joint general secretary , Kevin Courtney , who described schools as `` a major contributor to the virus '' yesterday and demanded they be included in any lockdown plans .
Ms Phillipson 's response was a quick tour of what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying children currently in education `` already start school behind their peers , they already face such challenges in getting on in life , it is vital that schools remain open but we do need to see government putting in place support to make sure that all teaching staff and staff within schools have priority access to testing '' .

A lockdown, surging infections, accusations of too little too late and a body blow for business. You'd be forgiven for feeling a certain amount of deja vu, but it's clear the second wave of COVID-19 comes with new concerns and challenges.
Lockdown could be extended
The national lockdown in England could be extended beyond 2 December, Michael Gove has told Sophy Ridge on Sunday.
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Asked if an extension could happen, he first said "we're going to review [the lockdown] on the 2nd of December" and when pressed admitted that "yes", it could be.
The Cabinet Office minister's answer will unsettle Conservatives (and others) afraid of mission creep and an extension if cases stay high.
It bears repeating that the first nationwide lockdown was initially announced for at least three weeks with constant review thereafter, for all that it then lasted for three months.
While the new lockdown is England-specific, there are still questions about how it (and the corresponding financial support) meshes with the patchwork of regional, "firebreak" or "circuit break" restrictions in the other UK nations.
Why now?
Two weeks before, Mr Gove had sat in the same chair in the same studio and told Sophy that "no", there would not be a national lockdown.
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He had been responding to Labour calls for a short "circuit breaker" lockdown, after government scientific advisory group SAGE called for one to be considered in September.
Asked how people could trust him now, Mr Gove said the government had been told "a regional approach could succeed in reducing the spread" of infections from virus-heavy areas to those less affected, but "the virus has been spreading faster than predicted".
The SAGE papers from September did make clear that the UK faced an "exponential rise in cases" and Boris Johnson's old jibe that Sir Keir Starmer is "Captain Hindsight" looks a little thinner in the light of Saturday's U-turn.
Sublime indifference to Christmas
Christmas is unlikely to be as merry as hoped according to a member of SAGE, for all that the new lockdown is hopefully ending at the start of December.
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Former chief scientific adviser Sir Mark Walport described COVID-19 "sublimely indifferent to what day of the week it is and indeed whether it's Christmas or any other festival", saying "it does seem a bit unlikely that it is going to be a completely normal Christmas".
It's the point that those who've argued for a relaxation of the rules on Christmas Day are having to reckon with, given that winter temperatures and a lack of social distancing are ideal conditions for the virus.
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He said it was a "possibility" that the new lockdown could last longer than the first as it's "not as severe as it was the first time round" and cases are "unlikely this time to come down quite as fast".
A reminder here that if restrictions lasted longer than last time it would take us substantially into early 2021.
Johnson a 'disappointment'
Boris Johnson needs to "make it absolutely clear that he backs business" and his relationship with businesses "could be a lot better", the outgoing director-general of the CBI said.
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Asked if the man reputed to have said "f*** business" during the EU referendum was "pro-business", Dame Carolyn Fairbairn said: "I think he is in his bones but what we now need to see is that in action… it has been a disappointment to me that there hasn't been a closer relationship [with No 10]… I think this is an opportunity for the prime minister to make it absolutely clear that he backs business."
Citing collaboration with the Trades Union Congress, she said "the public really want to see different parts of our country pull together and "I think the prime minister has an opportunity to stand for that and part of that is going to be about burying hatchets".
Keep schools open
One of the key debates of the first lockdown centred around the reopening of education, but today a Labour frontbencher delivered a public rebuke to unions calling for schools to be closed again.
Labour's Bridget Phillipson said "they should stay open", adding: "Of course, I understand the concerns that unions are expressing on this, but I've seen the impact that children in my community, by children in places like Sunderland in the North East, where they have been out of school for an extended period of time, they can't afford to lose that education, we can't see that happen again."
It was a direct response to the National Education Union's joint general secretary, Kevin Courtney, who described schools as "a major contributor to the virus" yesterday and demanded they be included in any lockdown plans.
Ms Phillipson's response was a quick tour of what's most worrying about the current cohort, saying children currently in education "already start school behind their peers, they already face such challenges in getting on in life, it is vital that schools remain open but we do need to see government putting in place support to make sure that all teaching staff and staff within schools have priority access to testing".


skynewspolitics--2020-11-01--Khan warns Londoners council tax could have to rise as TfL secures £1.8bn bailout

Sadiq Khan has warned Londoners their council tax bills could have to rise because of the `` draconian '' conditions attached to a £1.8bn government bailout of Transport for London ( TfL ) .
The capital 's transport body said the agreement will enable it to continue operating until the end of March 2021 .
The exact amount of money involved will be subject to passenger revenue in the coming months .
It follows discussions between the Department for Transport and TfL , which is chaired by Mr Khan , to secure a six-month funding deal and prevent the collapse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ networks .
The mayor said the deal was `` not ideal '' but he fought hard to get to the `` best possible place '' , and claimed he had succeeded in `` killing off the very worst government proposals '' .
He insisted : `` The only reason TfL needs government support is because almost all our fares income has dried up since March as Londoners have done the right thing . ''
Asked in a later interview with Sky News whether people living in the capital should prepare for the possibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Khan said : `` They should be as a consequence of the conditions imposed by the government . ''
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said : `` This deal is proof of our commitment to supporting London and the transport network on which it depends .
`` Just as we 've done for the national rail operators , we 'll make up the fare income which TfL is losing due to COVID . ''
The latest round of negotiations were aimed at preventing TfL from being forced to file a Section 114 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ declare it insolvent , and lead to services being severely curtailed .
The deadline for talks was Saturday night .
Amendments to the congestion charge introduced in June as part of a previous bailout - a 30 % increase in the fee and longer operating hours - will remain in place due to the new deal .
Mr Khan said the government wanted TfL to extend the charging zone to the North and South Circular roads , covering around four million more Londoners .
Other proposed measures described by Mr Khan as `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport fare rises .
Responding to the new agreement , Mr Khan said : `` I am pleased that we have succeeded in killing off the very worst government proposals .
`` I am determined that none of this will now happen .
`` These proposals from the government would have hammered Londoners by massively expanding the congestion charge zone , scrapping free travel for older and younger Londoners and increasing TfL fares by more than RPI+1 . ''
Mr Khan said the negotiations have been `` an appalling and totally unnecessary distraction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attention should have been focused on trying to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protecting jobs '' .
A two-week extension to TfL 's funding was granted earlier this month amid a row between Mr Khan and ministers including Mr Shapps .
Last month Boris Johnson claimed TfL was `` effectively bankrupted '' before coronavirus , and proposals to hike charges were `` entirely the responsibility '' of Mr Khan .
Mr Shapps said : `` The mayor has pledged that national taxpayers will not pay for benefits for Londoners that they do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He added discussions will continue over the coming months to achieve a `` long-term settlement '' , which will include London being given `` more control over key taxes so it can pay more costs of the transport network itself '' .
City Hall said current passenger revenue projections mean the bailout is worth around £1.8bn in grants and borrowing .
TfL will carry out cost savings to make up a remaining £160m `` gap '' based on its forecasts .

Sadiq Khan has warned Londoners their council tax bills could have to rise because of the "draconian" conditions attached to a £1.8bn government bailout of Transport for London (TfL).
The capital's transport body said the agreement will enable it to continue operating until the end of March 2021.
The exact amount of money involved will be subject to passenger revenue in the coming months.
Image: Sadiq Khan said the agreement was 'not ideal'. File pic
It follows discussions between the Department for Transport and TfL, which is chaired by Mr Khan, to secure a six-month funding deal and prevent the collapse of the capital's bus and Tube networks.
The mayor said the deal was "not ideal" but he fought hard to get to the "best possible place", and claimed he had succeeded in "killing off the very worst government proposals".
He insisted: "The only reason TfL needs government support is because almost all our fares income has dried up since March as Londoners have done the right thing."
Asked in a later interview with Sky News whether people living in the capital should prepare for the possibility of higher council tax to fund TfL, Mr Khan said: "They should be as a consequence of the conditions imposed by the government."
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "This deal is proof of our commitment to supporting London and the transport network on which it depends.
"Just as we've done for the national rail operators, we'll make up the fare income which TfL is losing due to COVID."
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TfL said: "Discussions on longer-term sustainable funding continue."
The latest round of negotiations were aimed at preventing TfL from being forced to file a Section 114 notice - a process which would effectively declare it insolvent, and lead to services being severely curtailed.
The deadline for talks was Saturday night.
Amendments to the congestion charge introduced in June as part of a previous bailout - a 30% increase in the fee and longer operating hours - will remain in place due to the new deal.
Mr Khan said the government wanted TfL to extend the charging zone to the North and South Circular roads, covering around four million more Londoners.
Other proposed measures described by Mr Khan as "ill-advised and draconian" included above-inflation public transport fare rises.
Responding to the new agreement, Mr Khan said: "I am pleased that we have succeeded in killing off the very worst government proposals.
"I am determined that none of this will now happen.
"These proposals from the government would have hammered Londoners by massively expanding the congestion charge zone, scrapping free travel for older and younger Londoners and increasing TfL fares by more than RPI+1."
Mr Khan said the negotiations have been "an appalling and totally unnecessary distraction at a time when every ounce of attention should have been focused on trying to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protecting jobs".
A two-week extension to TfL's funding was granted earlier this month amid a row between Mr Khan and ministers including Mr Shapps.
Last month Boris Johnson claimed TfL was "effectively bankrupted" before coronavirus, and proposals to hike charges were "entirely the responsibility" of Mr Khan.
Mr Shapps said: "The mayor has pledged that national taxpayers will not pay for benefits for Londoners that they do not get themselves elsewhere in the country."
He added discussions will continue over the coming months to achieve a "long-term settlement", which will include London being given "more control over key taxes so it can pay more costs of the transport network itself".
City Hall said current passenger revenue projections mean the bailout is worth around £1.8bn in grants and borrowing.
TfL will carry out cost savings to make up a remaining £160m "gap" based on its forecasts.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-02--PM announces fresh help for self-employed during second lockdown

Self-employed workers will be able to claim government support worth 80 % of trading profits as England prepares to enter a new lockdown , Boris Johnson has announced .
Ahead of the new national measures coming into force on Thursday , the prime minister used a House of Commons statement to warn of an `` existential threat '' to the NHS due to the `` remorseless advance '' of the second wave of coronavirus infections .
`` It 's now clear we must do more together , '' he told MPs .
From Thursday , pubs , bars , restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in England and people will be told to stay at home - apart from when attending school , college , university , work or go food shopping .
Live coronavirus updates from the UK and around the world In order to reflect the extension of the furlough scheme for employed workers through November , Mr Johnson announced support for the self-employed will also be boosted ahead of the new month-long lockdown .
Under the latest instalment of the UK-wide Self-Employment Income Support Scheme ( SEISS ) , self-employed workers will receive 80 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The grants will also be paid faster than previously planned , with the claims window being brought forward from 14 December to 30 November .
In a Twitter post soon after the prime minister 's announcement , Chancellor Rishi Sunak said : `` We 're increasing the support to the self-employed from 40 % of trading profits to 80 % for November .
`` SEISS is calculated over 3 months so this increases the total grant from 40 % to 55 % of trading profits for November to January and the max @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government is also acting to allow more businesses to benefit from government loan schemes by extending the deadlines for applications .
The prime minister has faced backlash from within his own Conservative Party over the decision to announce a new England-wide lockdown .
Some senior Tory backbenchers have declared they will vote against the lockdown in a House of Commons vote on Wednesday ahead of the lockdown 's proposed start date of Thursday .
Sir Charles Walker told Sky News that 15 Conservative MPs would rebel against the government in the vote and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` further into an authoritarian , coercive state '' .
But Mr Johnson warned that , without action , the country `` could see up to twice as many deaths over the winter as we saw in the first wave '' .
The prime minister told critics of a new lockdown that the country was facing a `` medical and moral disaster '' .
And , in a retort to those - such as Labour - who wanted him to have acted sooner , he defended his previous opposition to a new national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a system of localised restrictions since the summer .
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The prime minister rejected suggestions he had been slow to act with fresh national measures , highlighting how the rate of deaths and infections are lower than they were in France before President Emmanuel Macron announced a new lockdown .
At the weekend , senior cabinet minister Michael Gove suggested England 's new lockdown could be extended beyond 2 December - when it is due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson stressed to the Commons that the new restrictions were `` time limited '' and will expire after four weeks .
The prime minister promised MPs a vote `` to agree the way forward '' after 2 December , with the government intending to return to its tiered system for localised restrictions .
He said the government would be announcing which tiers parts of England would be returning to in the week before the new national measures end .
He also told the Commons he would look at what further exemptions might be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but warned `` it is very difficult take out one part of the Jenga block without disturbing the whole package '' .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer accused Mr Johnson of a `` catastrophic failure of leadership and judgement '' for having previously rejected the advice of government scientists , given in September , for a `` circuit breaker '' lockdown .
`` At every stage , the prime minister has been too slow , behind the curve , '' he said .
`` At every stage , he has pushed away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he hoped would happen above what is happening . ''
Earlier on Monday , ministers and officials from the UK government and the devolved administrations were given a scientific briefing at a meeting of the emergency COBRA committee , chaired by Mr Gove .
Officials from the four nations of the UK also agreed to work together on a joint approach to possible restrictions over the Christmas period .
Wales is currently within its own 17-day `` firebreak '' lockdown , with First Minister Mark Drakeford setting out the new rules that will @ @ @ @ @ @

Self-employed workers will be able to claim government support worth 80% of trading profits as England prepares to enter a new lockdown, Boris Johnson has announced.
Ahead of the new national measures coming into force on Thursday, the prime minister used a House of Commons statement to warn of an "existential threat" to the NHS due to the "remorseless advance" of the second wave of coronavirus infections.
"It's now clear we must do more together," he told MPs.
From Thursday, pubs, bars, restaurants and non-essential shops will have to close in England and people will be told to stay at home - apart from when attending school, college, university, work or go food shopping.
Live coronavirus updates from the UK and around the world
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:25 'I make no apology for trying to avoid lockdown'
In order to reflect the extension of the furlough scheme for employed workers through November, Mr Johnson announced support for the self-employed will also be boosted ahead of the new month-long lockdown.
Under the latest instalment of the UK-wide Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), self-employed workers will receive 80% of their average trading profits for November.
The grants will also be paid faster than previously planned, with the claims window being brought forward from 14 December to 30 November.
In a Twitter post soon after the prime minister's announcement, Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: "We're increasing the support to the self-employed from 40% of trading profits to 80% for November.
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"SEISS is calculated over 3 months so this increases the total grant from 40% to 55% of trading profits for November to January and the max grant increases to £5,160."
The government is also acting to allow more businesses to benefit from government loan schemes by extending the deadlines for applications.
The prime minister has faced backlash from within his own Conservative Party over the decision to announce a new England-wide lockdown.
Some senior Tory backbenchers have declared they will vote against the lockdown in a House of Commons vote on Wednesday ahead of the lockdown's proposed start date of Thursday.
Sir Charles Walker told Sky News that 15 Conservative MPs would rebel against the government in the vote and has warned that the country is drifting "further into an authoritarian, coercive state".
But Mr Johnson warned that, without action, the country "could see up to twice as many deaths over the winter as we saw in the first wave".
The prime minister told critics of a new lockdown that the country was facing a "medical and moral disaster".
And, in a retort to those - such as Labour - who wanted him to have acted sooner, he defended his previous opposition to a new national lockdown, with the government having pursued a system of localised restrictions since the summer.
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:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The prime minister rejected suggestions he had been slow to act with fresh national measures, highlighting how the rate of deaths and infections are lower than they were in France before President Emmanuel Macron announced a new lockdown.
At the weekend, senior cabinet minister Michael Gove suggested England's new lockdown could be extended beyond 2 December - when it is due to end - if necessary.
But Mr Johnson stressed to the Commons that the new restrictions were "time limited" and will expire after four weeks.
The prime minister promised MPs a vote "to agree the way forward" after 2 December, with the government intending to return to its tiered system for localised restrictions.
He said the government would be announcing which tiers parts of England would be returning to in the week before the new national measures end.
He also told the Commons he would look at what further exemptions might be made to the incoming national lockdown restrictions, but warned "it is very difficult take out one part of the Jenga block without disturbing the whole package".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:28 'PM's shown catastrophic failure of leadership'
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer accused Mr Johnson of a "catastrophic failure of leadership and judgement" for having previously rejected the advice of government scientists, given in September, for a "circuit breaker" lockdown.
"At every stage, the prime minister has been too slow, behind the curve," he said.
"At every stage, he has pushed away challenge, ignored advice and put what he hoped would happen above what is happening."
Earlier on Monday, ministers and officials from the UK government and the devolved administrations were given a scientific briefing at a meeting of the emergency COBRA committee, chaired by Mr Gove.
Officials from the four nations of the UK also agreed to work together on a joint approach to possible restrictions over the Christmas period.
Wales is currently within its own 17-day "firebreak" lockdown, with First Minister Mark Drakeford setting out the new rules that will apply once the shutdown ends.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-02--Don't underestimate deep discontent among Tories fast running out of faith in PM

For a prime minister that trades in optimism , sticking to gritty realism on COVID-19 is not his comfortable spot .
Coronavirus : Do n't underestimate deep discontent among Conservatives running out of faith in Boris Johnson Boris Johnson 's U-turn has deeply angered many of his MPs Pic : UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor National lockdown number two .
It was a policy that two weeks ago , the prime minister not only rejected on the floor of the House of Commons but lambasted Sir Keir Starmer for supporting .
So to come to the House Commons on Monday to ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always going to be deeply uncomfortable for Boris Johnson and the U-turn has deeply angered many of his MPs .
They are angry not just on the substance of the U-turn - many deeply opposed to further restrictions - but the way in which the prime minister and his team handled the politics .
Less than two weeks ago , Conservative Campaign Headquarters ( CCHQ ) had asked MPs to share clips on social media showing the prime minister attacking Sir Keir , the Labour leader , for calling for a short national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the prime minister declaring that the idea of a `` circuit breaker '' lockdown was `` wrong for this country '' , while his own `` commonsensical local and regional approach '' was the right thing to do .
MPs who loyally championed that message could be forgiven for feeling rather aggrieved now .
At least the prime minister appeared in the Commons on Monday to have learnt something from this politically difficult U-turn , as he refused to rule anything in or out as he addressed MPs .
What he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would expire on 2 December and MPs would have a vote on what comes next .
What Mr Johnson would n't promise was an end to those restrictions .
He `` intends '' to return to a tiered system - but it will depend on the `` latest data and trends '' .
And , as the pattern of the virus changes , the prime minister is moving the goalposts too - his game plan changing amid concerns around public compliance , a faltering Test and Trace system and worsening COVID-19 data .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ promised us the hope of a normal Christmas , on Monday he spoke only of beating the virus by the spring .
For a prime minister that trades in optimism , sticking to gritty realism is not his comfortable spot .
But for MPs like Douglas Ross , the leader of the Scottish Conservatives , it 's a better position to be in than the knots the party has tied itself in in recent weeks .
He told Sky News : `` The prime minister is giving people hope that this circuit breaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
`` But we also ca n't guarantee that we 'll be in the right place in a month 's time , so again - like ruling out a national lockdown - I do n't think we can rule anything out and we 'll have to keep all options open . ''
As for the Commons vote on Wednesday for MPs to authorise the new national restrictions , it will pass after Labour confirmed that it will back the lockdown .
That , in turn , has rather taken in the wind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might have had teeth but will now be symbolic .
Sir Charles Walker , vice-chair of the 1922 Committee of Conservative backbenchers , told Sky News he thinks in the end that the rebellion might not pass 20 people .
But do not underestimate the deep discontent in the party that is fast running out of faith in their prime minister and his Number 10 operation .
Mr Johnson 's glimmer of hope on Monday was the prospect of millions of rapid tests to lift the country out of lockdowns , as he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of efforts to catch cases and break chains of transmission .
Such a breakthrough would be a game-changer for the country and for Mr Johnson 's premiership too .

For a prime minister that trades in optimism, sticking to gritty realism on COVID-19 is not his comfortable spot.
Coronavirus: Don't underestimate deep discontent among Conservatives running out of faith in Boris Johnson
Boris Johnson's U-turn has deeply angered many of his MPs Pic: UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor
National lockdown number two. It was a policy that two weeks ago, the prime minister not only rejected on the floor of the House of Commons but lambasted Sir Keir Starmer for supporting.
So to come to the House Commons on Monday to ask parliament to back a four-week lockdown was always going to be deeply uncomfortable for Boris Johnson and the U-turn has deeply angered many of his MPs.
They are angry not just on the substance of the U-turn - many deeply opposed to further restrictions - but the way in which the prime minister and his team handled the politics.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:25 'I make no apology for trying to avoid lockdown'
Less than two weeks ago, Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) had asked MPs to share clips on social media showing the prime minister attacking Sir Keir, the Labour leader, for calling for a short national lockdown.
CCHQ pumped out a clip of the prime minister declaring that the idea of a "circuit breaker" lockdown was "wrong for this country", while his own "commonsensical local and regional approach" was the right thing to do.
MPs who loyally championed that message could be forgiven for feeling rather aggrieved now.
At least the prime minister appeared in the Commons on Monday to have learnt something from this politically difficult U-turn, as he refused to rule anything in or out as he addressed MPs.
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:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
What he was clear about was the impending national restrictions would expire on 2 December and MPs would have a vote on what comes next.
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What Mr Johnson wouldn't promise was an end to those restrictions.
He "intends" to return to a tiered system - but it will depend on the "latest data and trends".
And, as the pattern of the virus changes, the prime minister is moving the goalposts too - his game plan changing amid concerns around public compliance, a faltering Test and Trace system and worsening COVID-19 data.
While a few weeks ago Mr Johnson promised us the hope of a normal Christmas, on Monday he spoke only of beating the virus by the spring.
For a prime minister that trades in optimism, sticking to gritty realism is not his comfortable spot.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:28 'PM's shown catastrophic failure of leadership'
But for MPs like Douglas Ross, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, it's a better position to be in than the knots the party has tied itself in in recent weeks.
He told Sky News: "The prime minister is giving people hope that this circuit breaker lockdown is only going to last four weeks.
"But we also can't guarantee that we'll be in the right place in a month's time, so again - like ruling out a national lockdown - I don't think we can rule anything out and we'll have to keep all options open."
As for the Commons vote on Wednesday for MPs to authorise the new national restrictions, it will pass after Labour confirmed that it will back the lockdown.
That, in turn, has rather taken in the wind out of the Tory rebellions which once might have had teeth but will now be symbolic.
Sir Charles Walker, vice-chair of the 1922 Committee of Conservative backbenchers, told Sky News he thinks in the end that the rebellion might not pass 20 people.
But do not underestimate the deep discontent in the party that is fast running out of faith in their prime minister and his Number 10 operation.
Mr Johnson's glimmer of hope on Monday was the prospect of millions of rapid tests to lift the country out of lockdowns, as he dangled the possibility of city-wide testing as part of efforts to catch cases and break chains of transmission.
Such a breakthrough would be a game-changer for the country and for Mr Johnson's premiership too.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-02--Entire population of Liverpool to be regularly offered COVID-19 tests under pilot scheme

The entire population of the COVID-19 hotspot city of Liverpool will be regularly offered a coronavirus test in a pilot scheme using the armed forces .
The city , which has been under Tier 3 restrictions for nearly three weeks and has one of the highest coronavirus rates in England at 366.4 cases per 100,000 , volunteered for the scheme , which will start on Friday .
The scheme will use new , rapid turnaround tests , with 2,000 members of the military working alongside NHS staff , and everyone living or working in the city offered repeat testing - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be tested using a combination of existing swab tests , as well as 500,000 new lateral flow tests , which can rapidly turn around results within an hour without the need to be processed in a lab .
People will be able to book a test online , by walking into a test centre , or by invitation from the city council .
Tests will be carried out at new and existing test sites , using home kits , in hospitals , care homes , schools , universities and workplaces .
Announcing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson said : `` I want to thank the civic leaders of Liverpool for volunteering to join the UK 's first city-wide population testing pilot and the people of Liverpool for taking part .
`` These tests will help identify the many thousands of people in the city who do n't have symptoms but can still infect others without knowing .
`` Dependent on their success in Liverpool , we will aim to distribute millions of these new rapid tests between now and Christmas and empower local communities to use them to drive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is early days , but this kind of mass testing has the potential to be a powerful new weapon in our fight against COVID-19 . ''
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Health Secretary Matt Hancock added : `` Last month we set out our ambition to use the latest mass testing technologies to bring this virus under control .
`` Mass testing will help us to control this virus , by finding it even before people get symptoms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ roll out mass testing to whole cities - starting with Liverpool .
`` Using half a million of the very latest rapid tests , this rollout can help suppress the virus and give residents and workers some peace of mind .
`` Everyone in Liverpool can help play their part by getting a test and following the rules , including the critical basics of hands , space , face . ''
Liverpool 's mayor Joe Anderson , whose brother Bill died from COVID-19 last month , said : `` We are pleased that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ becoming a pilot for mass testing , which will help to quickly identify people who have the virus and reduce transmission substantially .
`` We are seeing a slow reduction in figures in Liverpool which shows we are on the right path and residents and businesses are working together and following guidelines for the greater good .
`` We hope this new initiative boosts our efforts , and we will continue to see the numbers of positive cases drop across the city . ''
Explaining the role of the forces in the testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Since the start of the pandemic , the armed forces have worked with colleagues across government to increase national testing capacity .
`` We will be deploying 2,000 talented armed forces personnel to , once again , rise to the challenges posed by COVID-19 to ensure we go above and beyond for the Liverpool community - we will have your backs throughout the trial .
`` The military are uniquely placed to help with the fight against COVID-19 and remain ready to support with the mass testing initiative in Liverpool along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this time . ''
The government 's testing boss Dido Harding , the Tory peer who is facing growing calls from MPs to be sacked over the faltering Test and Trace system , broke her recent silence to welcome the scheme .
`` Mass testing has the potential to enable us to find the vast majority of people who have coronavirus , regardless of whether they have symptoms or not , and therefore dramatically enhance our ability to stop the spread of the virus , '' she said .
`` This first deployment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a really important step forward and is thanks to the big increase in testing capacity and our investment in new testing technologies .
`` NHS Test and Trace will continue to work closely with local leaders , directors of public health and the armed forces to ensure Liverpool residents and workers can benefit from these advances .
`` By everyone in Liverpool coming forward to get tested , and isolating if they need to , we have a real opportunity to make a massive difference . ''

The entire population of the COVID-19 hotspot city of Liverpool will be regularly offered a coronavirus test in a pilot scheme using the armed forces.
The city, which has been under Tier 3 restrictions for nearly three weeks and has one of the highest coronavirus rates in England at 366.4 cases per 100,000, volunteered for the scheme, which will start on Friday.
The scheme will use new, rapid turnaround tests, with 2,000 members of the military working alongside NHS staff, and everyone living or working in the city offered repeat testing - even if asymptomatic.
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Image: The Liverpool city region has been under Tier 3 restrictions for almost a month
Residents and workers will be tested using a combination of existing swab tests, as well as 500,000 new lateral flow tests, which can rapidly turn around results within an hour without the need to be processed in a lab.
People will be able to book a test online, by walking into a test centre, or by invitation from the city council.
Tests will be carried out at new and existing test sites, using home kits, in hospitals, care homes, schools, universities and workplaces.
Announcing the pilot scheme, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "I want to thank the civic leaders of Liverpool for volunteering to join the UK's first city-wide population testing pilot and the people of Liverpool for taking part.
"These tests will help identify the many thousands of people in the city who don't have symptoms but can still infect others without knowing.
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"Dependent on their success in Liverpool, we will aim to distribute millions of these new rapid tests between now and Christmas and empower local communities to use them to drive down transmission in their areas.
"It is early days, but this kind of mass testing has the potential to be a powerful new weapon in our fight against COVID-19."
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Health Secretary Matt Hancock added: "Last month we set out our ambition to use the latest mass testing technologies to bring this virus under control.
"Mass testing will help us to control this virus, by finding it even before people get symptoms.
"I'm delighted we can now roll out mass testing to whole cities - starting with Liverpool.
"Using half a million of the very latest rapid tests, this rollout can help suppress the virus and give residents and workers some peace of mind.
"Everyone in Liverpool can help play their part by getting a test and following the rules, including the critical basics of hands, space, face."
Image: Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson revealed his brother died of COVID-19 last month
Liverpool's mayor Joe Anderson, whose brother Bill died from COVID-19 last month, said: "We are pleased that our numerous conversations have resulted in Liverpool becoming a pilot for mass testing, which will help to quickly identify people who have the virus and reduce transmission substantially.
"We are seeing a slow reduction in figures in Liverpool which shows we are on the right path and residents and businesses are working together and following guidelines for the greater good.
"We hope this new initiative boosts our efforts, and we will continue to see the numbers of positive cases drop across the city."
Explaining the role of the forces in the testing, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "Since the start of the pandemic, the armed forces have worked with colleagues across government to increase national testing capacity.
"We will be deploying 2,000 talented armed forces personnel to, once again, rise to the challenges posed by COVID-19 to ensure we go above and beyond for the Liverpool community - we will have your backs throughout the trial.
"The military are uniquely placed to help with the fight against COVID-19 and remain ready to support with the mass testing initiative in Liverpool along with the additional needs of the country at this time."
The government's testing boss Dido Harding, the Tory peer who is facing growing calls from MPs to be sacked over the faltering Test and Trace system, broke her recent silence to welcome the scheme.
"Mass testing has the potential to enable us to find the vast majority of people who have coronavirus, regardless of whether they have symptoms or not, and therefore dramatically enhance our ability to stop the spread of the virus," she said.
"This first deployment of whole city testing in Liverpool is a really important step forward and is thanks to the big increase in testing capacity and our investment in new testing technologies.
"NHS Test and Trace will continue to work closely with local leaders, directors of public health and the armed forces to ensure Liverpool residents and workers can benefit from these advances.
"By everyone in Liverpool coming forward to get tested, and isolating if they need to, we have a real opportunity to make a massive difference."


skynewspolitics--2020-11-02--PM resists calls to exempt gyms, tennis, golf and swimming from lockdown

Boris Johnson has resisted calls to keep gyms , tennis courts , golf courses and swimming pools open during England 's impending national lockdown .
Under the new restrictions due to come into force from Thursday , the prime minister has ordered indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities to close .
Sporting bodies in England have sought to challenge the government 's shutdown , but the prime minister offered them little hope of success as he addressed the House of Commons on Monday .
Answering questions from MPs , Mr Johnson suggested that unpicking parts of the lockdown would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ package is compromised '' .
Conservative MP James Sunderland told the prime minister he had been contacted by many constituents concerned about the closure of gyms , golf clubs and tennis clubs '' Given the proven benefits of exercise and the lack of any clear evidence that these activities have contributed to an increase in the R rate , might the prime minister be willing to reconsider the current guidance within the next four weeks ?
, '' the Bracknell MP asked .
But Mr Johnson replied : `` Once you unpick at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the whole package is compromised .
`` That is why I want everybody to work together for the next four weeks , as I say , to get the R under control so that we can open things up again in time for December . ''
Another Tory MP , Stephen Metcalfe , asked the prime minister to review the rules around socially distanced outdoor sports such as golf and tennis .
Labour MP Kevan Jones urged Mr Johnson to publish the scientific data behind the decision to close sports facilities , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' of golf clubs and gyms to ensure they are COVID-safe .
And Conservative MP Peter Aldous asked the prime minister to rethink the rules on activities such as outdoor swimming `` that can take place in a socially distanced and responsible way '' .
Mr Johnson said the government would `` look at any exceptions that we can sensibly make '' , but he added : `` It is difficult to take out one part of the Jenga block without disturbing the whole package . ''
Under the government 's guidance for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been told they can exercise or visit outdoor public places with the people they live with , their support bubble , or one person from another household .
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The Lawn Tennis Association had been urging the government to allow outdoor tennis to continue , in line with those restrictions .
But it said in a statement on Monday : `` The government have today indicated that they wo n't be allowing outdoor tennis courts to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new national restrictions that come into force from Thursday .
`` This is hugely disappointing for all those who love tennis up and down the country .
`` We will continue to put our case to them ahead of the formal legislation detailing the restrictions during lockdown , which is yet to be published and is due to be voted on in parliament on Wednesday .
`` We will then provide an update on the definitive position of what is and is n't allowed . ''

Boris Johnson has resisted calls to keep gyms, tennis courts, golf courses and swimming pools open during England's impending national lockdown.
Under the new restrictions due to come into force from Thursday, the prime minister has ordered indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities to close.
Sporting bodies in England have sought to challenge the government's shutdown, but the prime minister offered them little hope of success as he addressed the House of Commons on Monday.
Answering questions from MPs, Mr Johnson suggested that unpicking parts of the lockdown would mean "the effectiveness of the whole package is compromised".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:25 'I make no apology for trying to avoid lockdown'
Conservative MP James Sunderland told the prime minister he had been contacted by many constituents concerned about the closure of gyms, golf clubs and tennis clubs
"Given the proven benefits of exercise and the lack of any clear evidence that these activities have contributed to an increase in the R rate, might the prime minister be willing to reconsider the current guidance within the next four weeks?," the Bracknell MP asked.
But Mr Johnson replied: "Once you unpick at one thing, alas, the effectiveness of the whole package is compromised.
"That is why I want everybody to work together for the next four weeks, as I say, to get the R under control so that we can open things up again in time for December."
Another Tory MP, Stephen Metcalfe, asked the prime minister to review the rules around socially distanced outdoor sports such as golf and tennis.
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Labour MP Kevan Jones urged Mr Johnson to publish the scientific data behind the decision to close sports facilities, as he highlighted the "valiant efforts" of golf clubs and gyms to ensure they are COVID-safe.
And Conservative MP Peter Aldous asked the prime minister to rethink the rules on activities such as outdoor swimming "that can take place in a socially distanced and responsible way".
Mr Johnson said the government would "look at any exceptions that we can sensibly make", but he added: "It is difficult to take out one part of the Jenga block without disturbing the whole package."
Under the government's guidance for England's second lockdown, people have been told they can exercise or visit outdoor public places with the people they live with, their support bubble, or one person from another household.
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The Lawn Tennis Association had been urging the government to allow outdoor tennis to continue, in line with those restrictions.
But it said in a statement on Monday: "The government have today indicated that they won't be allowing outdoor tennis courts to open in England during the period of the new national restrictions that come into force from Thursday.
"This is hugely disappointing for all those who love tennis up and down the country.
"We will continue to put our case to them ahead of the formal legislation detailing the restrictions during lockdown, which is yet to be published and is due to be voted on in parliament on Wednesday.
"We will then provide an update on the definitive position of what is and isn't allowed."


skynewspolitics--2020-11-02--PM pushes back timetable for coronavirus fight to spring

The key ingredients in Boris Johnson 's electoral elixir are humour , happiness and hope .
He prefers to be positive and optimistic .
However in this crisis , that political potion has seemingly stopped working .
Today in the Commons there was no carrot , only ( scientific ) sticks , as the PM attempted to persuade MPs with sobering stats and depressing data .
He spoke of the `` medical and moral disaster we face '' and claimed `` there is no alternative '' .
He apologised for the `` anguish '' another lockdown would cause to business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-employed people , and said `` quick turnaround tests '' would help combat the coronavirus .
For the eagle-eared , there was also a change in aspirations .
The PM suggested we will `` defeat '' the virus `` by Spring '' .
In contrast , in July he suggested a `` significant return to normality '' from November at the earliest and `` possibly in time for Christmas '' .
Unlike some rebellious Tory backbenchers , Keir Starmer told the Commons that his MPs would vote for a second lockdown in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` for forty days the PM ignored '' advice for stricter restrictions and claimed there would be a `` human cost '' because of that `` inaction '' .
Mr Starmer also returned to his core criticisms of the government : the track-and-trace system and levels of economic support .
The Prime Minister survived today 's Commons statement and is expected to comfortably win Wednesday 's vote on the restrictions .
Yet his handling of this latest episode has angered Conservative backbenchers - with even the most loyal saying they are `` shell-shocked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with projections from scientists looking unremittingly bleak , that political potion is likely to remain ineffective for many months .

The key ingredients in Boris Johnson's electoral elixir are humour, happiness and hope. He prefers to be positive and optimistic.
However in this crisis, that political potion has seemingly stopped working.
Today in the Commons there was no carrot, only (scientific) sticks, as the PM attempted to persuade MPs with sobering stats and depressing data.
He spoke of the "medical and moral disaster we face" and claimed "there is no alternative".
He apologised for the "anguish" another lockdown would cause to business, announced a boost in support for self-employed people, and said "quick turnaround tests" would help combat the coronavirus.
For the eagle-eared, there was also a change in aspirations.
The PM suggested we will "defeat" the virus "by Spring". In contrast, in July he suggested a "significant return to normality" from November at the earliest and "possibly in time for Christmas".
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Unlike some rebellious Tory backbenchers, Keir Starmer told the Commons that his MPs would vote for a second lockdown in England.
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But the Labour leader argued that "for forty days the PM ignored" advice for stricter restrictions and claimed there would be a "human cost" because of that "inaction".
Mr Starmer also returned to his core criticisms of the government: the track-and-trace system and levels of economic support.
The Prime Minister survived today's Commons statement and is expected to comfortably win Wednesday's vote on the restrictions.
Yet his handling of this latest episode has angered Conservative backbenchers - with even the most loyal saying they are "shell-shocked" and "concerned".
And with projections from scientists looking unremittingly bleak, that political potion is likely to remain ineffective for many months.