thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Peston's brutal summary of criticism on Hancock's COVID testing - 'D minus... try harder!'

ITV ’ s political editor took to Twitter to share a letter from UK Statistics Authority chairman Sir David Norgrove to the Health Secretary criticising inadequate data on coronavirus tests .
Peston tweeted : “ To save you the bother of reading this school report from official stats supremo Norgrove to Matt Hancock on the government ’ s daily publication of COVID-19 testing data , I will put in nutshell .
“ The data is misleading , confusing and unhelpful .
D minus .
Must try harder.
” The Government has claimed to have hit targets of carrying out 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of April and having the capacity for 200,000 tests by the end of May .
But in his letter to Mr Hancock , Sir David said : `` The testing statistics still fall well short of its expectations .
`` It is not surprising that given their inadequacy data on testing are so widely criticised and often mistrusted.
” He continued : `` Statistics on testing perhaps serve two main purposes .
`` The first is to help us understand the epidemic , alongside the ONS survey , showing us how many people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their relevant characteristics .
`` The second purpose is to help manage the test programme , to ensure there are enough tests , that they are carried out or sent where they are needed and that they are being used as effectively as possible .
The Government has claimed to have hit targets of carrying out 100,000 coronavirus tests a day by the end of April and having the capacity for 200,000 tests by the end of May '' It is also hard to believe the statistics work to support the testing programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neither purpose well . ''
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said : `` The Secretary of State has spoken to Sir David and reiterated the Department 's commitment to continuing to work closely with the UKSA to address their concerns .
`` We have sought to work closely with the UKSA throughout our response to coronavirus to ensure statistics , which are prepared in very challenging circumstances , are presented in the best way possible .
`` Our approach throughout has been to increase transparency around the government 's response @ @ @ @

Matt Hancock: People with COVID-19 symptoms 'must' get a test
ITV’s political editor took to Twitter to share a letter from UK Statistics Authority chairman Sir David Norgrove to the Health Secretary criticising inadequate data on coronavirus tests. Peston tweeted: “To save you the bother of reading this school report from official stats supremo Norgrove to Matt Hancock on the government’s daily publication of COVID-19 testing data, I will put in nutshell.
“The data is misleading, confusing and unhelpful. D minus. Must try harder.” The Government has claimed to have hit targets of carrying out 100,000 coronavirus tests a day by the end of April and having the capacity for 200,000 tests by the end of May. But in his letter to Mr Hancock, Sir David said: "The testing statistics still fall well short of its expectations. "It is not surprising that given their inadequacy data on testing are so widely criticised and often mistrusted.”
Robert Peston brutally summarised an assessment on Matt Hancock’s coronavirus testing figures
UK Statistics Authority chairman Sir David Norgrove criticised inadequate data on coronavirus tests in a letter to the Health Secretary
He continued: "Statistics on testing perhaps serve two main purposes. "The first is to help us understand the epidemic, alongside the ONS survey, showing us how many people are infected, or not, and their relevant characteristics. "The second purpose is to help manage the test programme, to ensure there are enough tests, that they are carried out or sent where they are needed and that they are being used as effectively as possible. READ MORE: Robert Peston suffers awkward blunder during Boris Johnson briefing
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The Government has claimed to have hit targets of carrying out 100,000 coronavirus tests a day by the end of April and having the capacity for 200,000 tests by the end of May
To save you the bother of reading this school report from official stats supremo Norgrove to @MattHancock on the government’s daily publication of #COVID__19 testing data, I will put in nutshell. The data is misleading, confusing and unhelpful. D minus. Must try harder https://t.co/cLNrsKW1wO — Robert Peston (@Peston) June 2, 2020
"It is also hard to believe the statistics work to support the testing programme itself. The statistics and analysis serve neither purpose well." A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: "The Secretary of State has spoken to Sir David and reiterated the Department's commitment to continuing to work closely with the UKSA to address their concerns. "We have sought to work closely with the UKSA throughout our response to coronavirus to ensure statistics, which are prepared in very challenging circumstances, are presented in the best way possible. "Our approach throughout has been to increase transparency around the government's response to coronavirus."
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--PMQs LIVE: Starmer left stunned as Boris hits back at secret letter snub - 'I called him!'

Today the furious row continued as Sir Keir Starmer accused the Prime Minister of failing to respond to a later he sent offering his co-operation .
However , Mr Johnson hit back and said the reason there was no corresponding letter from him was because he had telephoned the Opposition leader .
Ahead of PMQs , Sir Keir told his Conservative counterpart to `` get a grip '' and accused him `` winging it '' in the face of dwindling public support for the Government .
In an interview with The Guardian , he said : `` I am putting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has got to get a grip and restore public confidence in the Government 's handling of the epidemic .
`` If we see a sharp rise in the R rate , the infection rate , or a swathe of local lockdowns , responsibility for that falls squarely at the door of No 10 .
`` We all know the public have made huge sacrifices .
This mismanagement of the last few weeks is the responsibility of the Government . ''
Sir Keir added : `` My worry is that after a week or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerned the Government has made a difficult situation 10 times worse .
There is a growing concern the government is now winging it .
`` At precisely the time when there should have been maximum trust in the Government , confidence has collapsed . ''
FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM EXPRESS.CO.UK The Opposition leader 's letter to the Prime Minister has now been published .
Sir Keir Starmer had accused the Prime Minister of failing to respond to him after he wrote offering his help in getting children back to school .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Labour leader via phone and received no help from his counterpart , Sir Keir said he would publish the letter for the public to make up their own mind on how constructive he had been .
12.34pm update : Tim Farron asks for help for tourism industry Lib Dem MP and former party leader , Tim Farron , has asked for more help for the tourism industry which is in danger of severe financial hardship due to coronavirus .
While saying he did not want to make any detailed announcements now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will continue to support the tourism industry .
12.33pm update : PMQs over-running as Putney MP demands more help for ethnic minorities at risk of the pandemic The Speaker has made a point so far of sticking to the Commons timetable , but similar to his predecessor John Bercow who often let PMQs run late , today 's proceedings are slightly behind schedule .
Putney 's MP has asked for assurances for black and ethnic minority teachers who are scared of going back to teach in the classrooms .
12.25pm update : Levelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Backbench Tory MP Paul Howell has asked the Prime Minister whether he agrees that as the UK leaves the pandemic , it is `` critical we not only stimulate the UK economy but also start the process of levelling it up '' .
He wants better help for housing firms in the north of England , better broadband for rural setting and even jokes about moving the Treasury to his constituency of Sedgefield in Durham .
The Prime Minister response in good humour telling him to be `` careful what he wishes for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the country .
The SNP 's Ian Blackford has accused the Government of failing to make a public statement on the death of Goerge Floyd at the hands of police in the US .
He says : `` In the seven days since Goerge Floyd was murdered , the UK Government has not even offered words and has not expressed that pain '' .
He then asks : `` What representations has he made to his ally Donald Trump ?
- and At least now , say it : 'Black lives matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by saying `` of course , black lives matter '' .
After another attack on the government 's handling of the crisis , Mr Johnson has finally lost his temper with the Labour leader .
He says : `` I really do not see the purpose of his endless attacks on public trust and confidence when what we are trying to do is give a clear message on how we are going to defeat this virus .
`` Test and trace is a vital tool in our armoury . ''
Calling on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard work he said Sir Keir should `` pay tribute to what they have achieved '' .
Sir Keir says he has supported the Government , but Mr Johnson 's handling of the coronavirus is making it hard to continue to do so .
The Prime Minister is clearly furious at what he sees to be the Labour leader 's political point-scoring .
Sir Keir Starmer criticises the Government 's test , track and trace system .
He has said the Prime Minister promised a `` world-leading '' system by Monday June 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet that pledge .
Saying the system was up and running on time , the Prime Minister has defended the system and those who have worked to get it up and running : `` I 'm afraid he 's casting aspersions on the efforts of tens of thousand of people who have set up a test , track and trace system in this country from a standing start .
`` We now have 40,000 people engaged in it . ''
Sir Keir Starmer has hit back at the Prime Minister 's demand for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confidential '' letter to Mr Johnson asking how he could help get schools up and running again - he claims he 's had no reply .
In response , Mr Johnson has attacked the `` tone '' of the Opposition leader and said he `` took the time to phone '' Sir Keir following his letter .
He adds : `` He did n't offer any decent at that stage .
He thoroughly endorsed our approach and I believe he should continue to endorse it today . ''
He tells his opposite number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Sir Keir retorts back : `` The Prime Minister challenges me on the offer I made to him .
This was a confidential letter , I think the best thing I can do is put it in the public domain and let the public decide for themselves how co-operative we 've been . ''
12.03pm update : Starmer demands answers as to who is in charge of coronavirus response Sir Keir Starmer has demanded Mr Johnson explain who is in charge of the Government 's response to coronavirus .
This morning 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take back `` direct control '' of the Government 's response .
The Labour leader has said this raises questions as to who has been in charge up to now .
Responding , the Prime minister has told his counter-part to start `` co-operating '' with the Government to help get the UK back on its feet .
12.00pm update : And we 're off !
Boris Johnson has entered the House of Commons chamber and the Speaker has called for the first question to the Prime Minister .
The latest clash between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underway .
11.52am update : The effect of coronavirus on the Commons atmosphere The House of Commons has been lacking it 's usual lion 's den atmosphere since the coronavirus outbreak , with just 50 MPs allowed into the chamber at a time .
So far , this has appeared to play into the new Labour leader 's hands - a barrister by trade , he is used to forensically articulating an argument in a court of law .
On the other hand , Boris Johnson tends to perform best in front of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to overcome the obstacles holding him back from his usual performances at the dispatch box today ?
11.45am update : Starmer likely to take swipe at Cummings With Parliament in recess last week , Mr Johnson and Sir Keir have not met at the dispatch box since the row over Dominic Cummings ' trip to Durham broke out .
While the news broke nearly two weeks ago now , it is likely the Labour leader will use today as the chance to attack the Prime Minister for standing by his top @ @ @ @ @

PMQs: Boris Johnson accuses Starmer of 'casting aspersions'
Debates between the two party leaders have become increasingly bitter over the course of the COVID-19 outbreak. Sir Keir has accused Mr Johnson of misleading MPs at the dispatch box, while the Prime Minister has said the Labour leader is failing to "work constructively" with him in the face of the unprecedented health crisis.
Today the furious row continued as Sir Keir Starmer accused the Prime Minister of failing to respond to a later he sent offering his co-operation. However, Mr Johnson hit back and said the reason there was no corresponding letter from him was because he had telephoned the Opposition leader. Ahead of PMQs, Sir Keir told his Conservative counterpart to "get a grip" and accused him "winging it" in the face of dwindling public support for the Government. In an interview with The Guardian, he said: "I am putting the Prime Minister on notice that he has got to get a grip and restore public confidence in the Government's handling of the epidemic. "If we see a sharp rise in the R rate, the infection rate, or a swathe of local lockdowns, responsibility for that falls squarely at the door of No 10. "We all know the public have made huge sacrifices. This mismanagement of the last few weeks is the responsibility of the Government." Sir Keir added: "My worry is that after a week or more of mismanagement, I'm deeply concerned the Government has made a difficult situation 10 times worse. There is a growing concern the government is now winging it. "At precisely the time when there should have been maximum trust in the Government, confidence has collapsed." FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM EXPRESS.CO.UK
PMQs: Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer's debates have become increasingly bitter
12.38pm update: Sir Keir Starmer publishes his letter The Opposition leader's letter to the Prime Minister has now been published. Sir Keir Starmer had accused the Prime Minister of failing to respond to him after he wrote offering his help in getting children back to school. After Mr Johnson said he had responded to the Labour leader via phone and received no help from his counterpart, Sir Keir said he would publish the letter for the public to make up their own mind on how constructive he had been.
Sir Keir Starmer's office has published his letter to the Prime Minister
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12.34pm update: Tim Farron asks for help for tourism industry Lib Dem MP and former party leader, Tim Farron, has asked for more help for the tourism industry which is in danger of severe financial hardship due to coronavirus. While saying he did not want to make any detailed announcements now, Mr Johnson has said the Government will continue to support the tourism industry. 12.33pm update: PMQs over-running as Putney MP demands more help for ethnic minorities at risk of the pandemic The Speaker has made a point so far of sticking to the Commons timetable, but similar to his predecessor John Bercow who often let PMQs run late, today's proceedings are slightly behind schedule. Putney's MP has asked for assurances for black and ethnic minority teachers who are scared of going back to teach in the classrooms. The Prime Minister dodges answering the question. 12.25pm update: Levelling up the UK economy still a priority Backbench Tory MP Paul Howell has asked the Prime Minister whether he agrees that as the UK leaves the pandemic, it is "critical we not only stimulate the UK economy but also start the process of levelling it up". He wants better help for housing firms in the north of England, better broadband for rural setting and even jokes about moving the Treasury to his constituency of Sedgefield in Durham. The Prime Minister response in good humour telling him to be "careful what he wishes for" before confirming he wants to level up the country.
Boris Johnson has said levelling up the economy remains a priority
12.23pm update: Ian Blackford demands change to UK exports to US The SNP leader in the Commons has attacked the Government for UK exports to the US of rubber bullets and tear gas. It comes after police used the measures to disperse protests in America following Goerge Floyd's death. Mr Johnson hits back and says "all exports are conducted in accordance with the consolidated guidance".
PMQs: Ian Blackford shut down by Boris Johnson over US exports
12.21pm update: SNP leader demands answers of George Floyd The SNP's Ian Blackford has accused the Government of failing to make a public statement on the death of Goerge Floyd at the hands of police in the US. He says: "In the seven days since Goerge Floyd was murdered, the UK Government has not even offered words and has not expressed that pain". He then asks: "What representations has he made to his ally Donald Trump? - and At least now, say it: 'Black lives matter'." The PM immediately responds by saying "of course, black lives matter".
Ian Blackford demands answers on George Floyd
12.18pm update: Boris finally loses his temper After another attack on the government's handling of the crisis, Mr Johnson has finally lost his temper with the Labour leader. He says: "I really do not see the purpose of his endless attacks on public trust and confidence when what we are trying to do is give a clear message on how we are going to defeat this virus. "Test and trace is a vital tool in our armoury." Calling on the Opposition leader to praise civil servants' hard work he said Sir Keir should "pay tribute to what they have achieved". Sir Keir says he has supported the Government, but Mr Johnson's handling of the coronavirus is making it hard to continue to do so. 12.12pm update: PM clearly left angry by Labour leader's attacks The Prime Minister is clearly furious at what he sees to be the Labour leader's political point-scoring. Sir Keir Starmer criticises the Government's test, track and trace system. He has said the Prime Minister promised a "world-leading" system by Monday June 1 and has accused his of failing to meet that pledge. Saying the system was up and running on time, the Prime Minister has defended the system and those who have worked to get it up and running: "I'm afraid he's casting aspersions on the efforts of tens of thousand of people who have set up a test, track and trace system in this country from a standing start. "We now have 40,000 people engaged in it."
Starmer has attacked the PM's response to the crisis
12.07pm update: Boris furious as 'confidential letter' made public Sir Keir Starmer has hit back at the Prime Minister's demand for co-operation and said he sent a "confidential" letter to Mr Johnson asking how he could help get schools up and running again - he claims he's had no reply. In response, Mr Johnson has attacked the "tone" of the Opposition leader and said he "took the time to phone" Sir Keir following his letter. He adds: "He didn't offer any decent at that stage. He thoroughly endorsed our approach and I believe he should continue to endorse it today." He tells his opposite number to continue to work constructively with him. Sir Keir retorts back: "The Prime Minister challenges me on the offer I made to him. This was a confidential letter, I think the best thing I can do is put it in the public domain and let the public decide for themselves how co-operative we've been." 12.03pm update: Starmer demands answers as to who is in charge of coronavirus response Sir Keir Starmer has demanded Mr Johnson explain who is in charge of the Government's response to coronavirus. This morning's Daily Telegraph reported the PM was to take back "direct control" of the Government's response. The Labour leader has said this raises questions as to who has been in charge up to now. Responding, the Prime minister has told his counter-part to start "co-operating" with the Government to help get the UK back on its feet.
PMQs: Starmer asks Johnson ‘who has been in control?’


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Boris Johnson smashes fist in rage in PMQs row with Keir Starmer 'agree u-turn criticise!'

The Prime Minister accused the Labour leader of adopting an `` agree , U-Turn and criticise '' opposition approach as the pair clashed during Prime Minister 's Questions in the Commons .
As Keir Starmer asked Boris Johnson why the Government eased coronavirus lockdown rules despite the UK 's alert level being at stage four , the Prime Minister raged : “ He knows perfectly well that the alert level does allow it .
“ And indeed he didn ’ t raise that issue with me when we had a conversation on the telephone .
“ And he knows the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make the progress we ’ ve had is that the five tests had been fulfilled .
“ So yes the alert level remains at four , as SAGE will confirm we have managed to protect the NHS , we ’ ve got the rate of deaths done , we ’ ve got the rate of infections done , the PPE crisis , we ’ ve dealt with care homes , the question of the R , they have been addressed.
” Mr Johnson also rejected the Labour leader 's claim that the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not yet fully operational .
Sir Keir said : `` Two weeks ago today at the despatch box the Prime Minister promised that we will have a test , track and trace operation that will be 'world-beating and yes it will be in place by June 1 ' .
`` But it is n't .
And a critical element , the ability of local authorities to respond to local spikes is missing . ''
Mr Johnson replied : `` I 'm afraid he 's casting aspersions on the efforts of tens of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a test , track and trace system in this country from a standing start .
`` We now have 40,000 people engaged in this . ''
Responding to Mr Johnson 's call for `` more co-operation '' from Labour , Sir Keir said he wrote to the Prime Minister two weeks ago to offer help build a consensus for getting children back into schools but received no response .
Sir Keir said : `` This is a critical week in our response to Covid-19 .
Whereas lockdown and stay at home were relatively @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult judgement calls .
`` So this is the week , of all weeks , where public trust and confidence in the Government needed to be at its highest . ''
He noted that the director of the Reuters Institute said they had never seen such a drop in trust in 10 years , adding : `` How worried is the Prime Minister about this loss of trust ? ''
Mr Johnson denied the claim he had not responded , saying he `` took the trouble to ring him ( Sir Keir ) @

PMQs: Boris Johnson smashes fist on table during Starmer clash
The Prime Minister accused the Labour leader of adopting an "agree, U-Turn and criticise" opposition approach as the pair clashed during Prime Minister's Questions in the Commons. As Keir Starmer asked Boris Johnson why the Government eased coronavirus lockdown rules despite the UK's alert level being at stage four, the Prime Minister raged: “He knows perfectly well that the alert level does allow it.
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“And indeed he didn’t raise that issue with me when we had a conversation on the telephone. “And he knows the reason we’ve been able to make the progress we’ve had is that the five tests had been fulfilled. “So yes the alert level remains at four, as SAGE will confirm we have managed to protect the NHS, we’ve got the rate of deaths done, we’ve got the rate of infections done, the PPE crisis, we’ve dealt with care homes, the question of the R, they have been addressed.”
Boris Johnson raged against Keir Starmer over coroanvirus during PMQs
Boris Johnson punched the dispatch box as he furiously replied to Keir Starmer during PMQs
Mr Johnson also rejected the Labour leader's claim that the Government's test, track and trace system is not yet fully operational. Sir Keir said: "Two weeks ago today at the despatch box the Prime Minister promised that we will have a test, track and trace operation that will be 'world-beating and yes it will be in place by June 1'. "But it isn't. And a critical element, the ability of local authorities to respond to local spikes is missing." Mr Johnson replied: "I'm afraid he's casting aspersions on the efforts of tens of thousands of people who have set up a test, track and trace system in this country from a standing start. "We now have 40,000 people engaged in this."
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PMQs: Boris Johnson accuses Starmer of 'casting aspersions'
Responding to Mr Johnson's call for "more co-operation" from Labour, Sir Keir said he wrote to the Prime Minister two weeks ago to offer help build a consensus for getting children back into schools but received no response. Sir Keir said: "This is a critical week in our response to Covid-19. Whereas lockdown and stay at home were relatively easy messages, easing restrictions involves very difficult judgement calls. "So this is the week, of all weeks, where public trust and confidence in the Government needed to be at its highest." He noted that the director of the Reuters Institute said they had never seen such a drop in trust in 10 years, adding: "How worried is the Prime Minister about this loss of trust?" Mr Johnson denied the claim he had not responded, saying he "took the trouble to ring him (Sir Keir).
Boris Johnson denied Keir Starmer's claim he did not respond to his offer of help


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Northern Ireland assembly votes for two-year Brexit delay - 'We've spoken!'

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The assembly has passed a motion demanding the UK government requests an extension to the Brexit transition period .
They have put the blame on the “ extreme challenges ” of the coronavirus pandemic as they have pointed out that complex border checks can not be implemented when the UK is in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic .
In April , Downing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extend the Brexit transition period , even if the EU requests a delay .
Downing Street has warned an extension would `` prolong the delay and uncertainty '' surrounding Brexit .
Michel Barnier is in the middle of talks with the UK over Brexit Boris Johnson has said he does not want to extend the Brexit deadline The formal deadline for extending the 11-month transition period is at the end of June .
Boris Johnson has been adamant in the past the government will not extend the negotiations and risk the possibility of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of 2020 if a trade deal is not reached .
The Stormont motion calls on the UK government “ to request , and the European Union to agree , an extension of the current Brexit transition period beyond 31 December 2020 in order that businesses have adequate time to prepare for the implementation of new arrangements '' .
SEE MORE : Never miss a Brexit update again with Express.co.uk politics newsle ...

Pound to euro exchange rate fluctuates amid Brexit talks
The assembly has passed a motion demanding the UK government requests an extension to the Brexit transition period. They have put the blame on the “extreme challenges” of the coronavirus pandemic as they have pointed out that complex border checks can not be implemented when the UK is in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. In April, Downing Street said the UK would refuse to extend the Brexit transition period, even if the EU requests a delay. Downing Street has warned an extension would "prolong the delay and uncertainty" surrounding Brexit.
Michel Barnier is in the middle of talks with the UK over Brexit
Boris Johnson has said he does not want to extend the Brexit deadline
The formal deadline for extending the 11-month transition period is at the end of June. Boris Johnson has been adamant in the past the government will not extend the negotiations and risk the possibility of the UK leaving the single market at the end of 2020 if a trade deal is not reached. The Stormont motion calls on the UK government “to request, and the European Union to agree, an extension of the current Brexit transition period beyond 31 December 2020 in order that businesses have adequate time to prepare for the implementation of new arrangements". SEE MORE: Never miss a Brexit update again with Express.co.uk politics newsle...
The Assembly has said Brexit should be granted an extension due to COVID-19
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David Frost and Michel Barnier have been struggling with Brexit talks


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Matt Hancock insists lockdown measures will be reviewed every four weeks

Matt Hancock told MPs that the period between assessments of the restrictions is to be extended to fit in with medical reports on the state of the Covid-19 outbreak .
The daily Downing Street briefings on the epidemic will be scrapped at weekends , it was announced .
Boris Johnson is to head at least one of the five weekly weekday briefings instead .
Revealing the change of lockdown rules in a written statement , Mr Hancock said : `` This will allow decisions to align more closely with the period of time necessary to assess the impact of previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the R [ infection ] rate .
`` The Government will also keep all the measures under continual review and will account to Parliament on an ongoing basis . ''
In a separate announcement , the Prime Minister 's spokesman said the weekend press conferences were being scrapped because of falling viewing figures .
He said : `` From this week , the press conferences will be on weekdays only .
So , no longer on Saturdays and Sundays .
`` The PM will take a press conference every week alongside the scientific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yesterday told MPs that people with coronavirus symptoms now have a duty to get themselves tested .
He said : `` If you have symptoms - that 's a fever , a new continuous cough , a change in your sense of taste or smell - you must get a test .
`` We have more than enough capacity to provide a test for anyone who needs one and we have more than enough capacity to trace all your contacts . ''
He also rejected calls for the distancing rule to be shortened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` We have reviewed the science of the two-metre rule and the challenge is that the further apart you are , the less likely the transmission of the virus . ''

Matt Hancock: We are winning the battle against coronavirus
Matt Hancock told MPs that the period between assessments of the restrictions is to be extended to fit in with medical reports on the state of the Covid-19 outbreak. The daily Downing Street briefings on the epidemic will be scrapped at weekends, it was announced. Boris Johnson is to head at least one of the five weekly weekday briefings instead. Revealing the change of lockdown rules in a written statement, Mr Hancock said: "This will allow decisions to align more closely with the period of time necessary to assess the impact of previous changes on key data feeds, including the R [infection] rate.
"The Government will also keep all the measures under continual review and will account to Parliament on an ongoing basis." In a separate announcement, the Prime Minister's spokesman said the weekend press conferences were being scrapped because of falling viewing figures. He said: "From this week, the press conferences will be on weekdays only. So, no longer on Saturdays and Sundays. "The PM will take a press conference every week alongside the scientific and medical experts."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock
Mr Hancock yesterday told MPs that people with coronavirus symptoms now have a duty to get themselves tested. He said: "If you have symptoms - that's a fever, a new continuous cough, a change in your sense of taste or smell - you must get a test. "We have more than enough capacity to provide a test for anyone who needs one and we have more than enough capacity to trace all your contacts." He also rejected calls for the distancing rule to be shortened from two metres. Mr Hancock said: "We have reviewed the science of the two-metre rule and the challenge is that the further apart you are, the less likely the transmission of the virus."


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Peer who was once homeless joins Tory MP in call to buy hotels to house rough sleepers

Ex-business secretary Andrea Leadsom and Big Issue founder John Bird have joined forces to push for changes that will give people on the streets a “ hand up not a hand out ” .
Ministers have put in place a raft of emergency measures to house those without a roof over their heads during the coronavirus crisis .
Around 2,000 rough sleepers in England have been given rooms in budget hotels .
Mrs Leadsom and Lord Bird , along with former homelessness minister Heather Wheeler and Robin Burgess , head of the Hope Centre Northampton charity , have called for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to provide permanent rehabilitation centres .
Lord Bird was left homeless when he was young and went on to found the Big Issue .
He said : `` We can not allow rough sleeping to return to how it was before Covid-19 .
The Government needs a plan to help those who are on the streets into safe accommodation , to give them the support they need to recover and deal with the demons that got them there , and then to help them back into society .
We need to extend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not a hand out . ''
The group also called for Japanese-style pods to be created that give a person a secure bed for the night , with locking doors and access to a toilet .
It said many rough sleepers fear violence or assault in traditional shelters .
Mrs Leadsom ’ s husband Ben is chairman of the Hope Centre in Northampton and she has pressed for early intervention to prevent people ending up on the streets .
She said : “ Societies are judged by how they treat their most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubt rough sleeping is a concern to all of us .
“ It ’ s crucial that we help those who are on the streets right now .
But it ’ s also crucial we prevent this happening in future.
” Ms Leadsom said better support for infants would help increase their life chances and prevent homelessness in later life .
The former Cabinet minister is pushing for action ahead of infant mental health awareness week starting on Monday .
She said : “ A key element of that is early years intervention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conception and two .
“ This period is often mistaken as less important because the baby can ’ t remember it , but it ’ s absolutely critical for forming the brain and making key attachments .
“ Doing this right can prevent all sorts of difficult life circumstances later on - including homelessness and mental health struggles.
” Around 4,255 people were estimated to be sleeping rough on an average night before coronavirus hit the UK .
Andrea Leadsom , MP for South Northamptonshire and former Business Secretary ; Heather Wheeler , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Homelessness ; Robin Burgess , CEO of the Hope Centre Northampton ; and Lord John Bird , former rough sleeper and founder of the Big Issue Coronavirus has proved that we can work together to combat rough sleeping .
This is a once in a generation opportunity that we must seize .
The response to rough sleeping during Coronavirus has shown how effective Government , councils and charities can be when they work together , having supported 90 percent of rough sleepers to find safe accommodation during this time .
But if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good , we must continue this momentum .
We advocate for a four part approach , covering one-stop day centres , a comprehensive rehousing programme , specialist rehabilitation services and better , safer shelters .
One-stop Day Centre Drop-ins should be rolled out in towns and cities throughout the UK with the ambition of supporting those who are homeless , at risk of becoming homeless , or sleeping rough .
These centres are crucial , and many already exist .
In Northampton , the Hope Centre supports around 130 rough sleepers by offering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as advice on housing , work and benefit options , and the opportunity to learn a trade .
As the old adage goes , “ give a man a fish and you feed him for a day .
Teach him to fish and you will feed him for a lifetime ” .
The Hope Centre does both .
These one-stop centres should be supported by a comprehensive rehousing programme , exactly as has just been announced by the Housing Secretary .
Those who have been housed during the pandemic should not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Specialist services are vital to help rough sleepers off the street .
This should include residential rehabilitation and/or mental health support .
The Government is already using hotels to shelter rough sleepers from the virus : it should consider buying a number of them to convert for this purpose .
Such support was successful in the 1990s , but have been cut since - as a result , people are stuck on the streets for longer without the support they need .
It will never be possible to entirely prevent people from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay in , so for those who can not be housed immediately a safety net is needed .
For many rough sleepers , shelters pose such a risk of violence , drug abuse and sexual assault that they feel it ’ s safer to sleep on the streets .
Night shelters must be reconsidered so that they ’ re supervised and secure .
One approach that ’ s been popular and safe elsewhere is pod-type sleeping , where each person is provided their own secure space , with locking doors , a bed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has recently been shown by the Government , councils and third sector working together continues once lockdown has ended , we stand a strong chance of beating rough sleeping forever .

Question Time: Guest says coronavirus is a 'social crisis'
Ex-business secretary Andrea Leadsom and Big Issue founder John Bird have joined forces to push for changes that will give people on the streets a “hand up not a hand out”. Ministers have put in place a raft of emergency measures to house those without a roof over their heads during the coronavirus crisis. Around 2,000 rough sleepers in England have been given rooms in budget hotels.
Mrs Leadsom and Lord Bird, along with former homelessness minister Heather Wheeler and Robin Burgess, head of the Hope Centre Northampton charity, have called for some of the properties to be bought up to provide permanent rehabilitation centres. Lord Bird was left homeless when he was young and went on to found the Big Issue. He said: "We cannot allow rough sleeping to return to how it was before Covid-19. The Government needs a plan to help those who are on the streets into safe accommodation, to give them the support they need to recover and deal with the demons that got them there, and then to help them back into society. We need to extend a hand - but a hand up, not a hand out." The group also called for Japanese-style pods to be created that give a person a secure bed for the night, with locking doors and access to a toilet. It said many rough sleepers fear violence or assault in traditional shelters. Mrs Leadsom’s husband Ben is chairman of the Hope Centre in Northampton and she has pressed for early intervention to prevent people ending up on the streets.
Big Issue founder John Bird
She said: “Societies are judged by how they treat their most vulnerable, and there’s no doubt rough sleeping is a concern to all of us. “It’s crucial that we help those who are on the streets right now. But it’s also crucial we prevent this happening in future.” Ms Leadsom said better support for infants would help increase their life chances and prevent homelessness in later life. The former Cabinet minister is pushing for action ahead of infant mental health awareness week starting on Monday. She said: “A key element of that is early years intervention - supporting babies and their families between conception and two. “This period is often mistaken as less important because the baby can’t remember it, but it’s absolutely critical for forming the brain and making key attachments. “Doing this right can prevent all sorts of difficult life circumstances later on - including homelessness and mental health struggles.” Around 4,255 people were estimated to be sleeping rough on an average night before coronavirus hit the UK.
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Ex-business secretary Andrea Leadsom
COMMENT Andrea Leadsom, MP for South Northamptonshire and former Business Secretary; Heather Wheeler, MP for South Derbyshire and former Minister for Homelessness; Robin Burgess, CEO of the Hope Centre Northampton; and Lord John Bird, former rough sleeper and founder of the Big Issue Coronavirus has proved that we can work together to combat rough sleeping. This is a once in a generation opportunity that we must seize. The response to rough sleeping during Coronavirus has shown how effective Government, councils and charities can be when they work together, having supported 90 percent of rough sleepers to find safe accommodation during this time. But if rough sleeping is to be combatted for good, we must continue this momentum. We advocate for a four part approach, covering one-stop day centres, a comprehensive rehousing programme, specialist rehabilitation services and better, safer shelters. One-stop Day Centre Drop-ins should be rolled out in towns and cities throughout the UK with the ambition of supporting those who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless, or sleeping rough.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--US Senator warns China is using Huawei to disrupt the special relationship with UK

The Arkansas Senator was speaking as debate continues as to whether Huawei can be trusted within the UK 5G network .
There is concern that the telecommunications firm could allow Beijing backdoor access to sensitive information , something Huawei has always denied .
Mr Cotton warned : “ It is my hope that the special relationship remains strong although I fear China is attempting to drive a hi-tech wedge between us using Huawei .
Washington has warned allies they risk being cut off from intelligence sharing programmes if they make deals with Huawei .
Huawei Vice President Victor Zhang said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market position , rather than security concerns , is what underpins America ’ s attack on Huawei .
“ The committee was given no evidence to substantiate security allegations.
” Britain has said Huawei ’ s involvement will be limited to 35 percent and it will be excluded from the sensitive core .
In recent weeks , reports have said that Boris Johnson is looking to reduce Huawei ’ s involvement in the 5G network to zero by 2023 .
The US has long warned other nations that Huawei is unsafe .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that as the government refines its decision , that if it doesn ’ t reverse it outright , it will mitigate it and minimise the use of Huawei technology , put it on a shorter time frame.
” Huawei ’ s billionaire founder Ren Zhengfei told CNBC : “ We never participate in espionage , and we do not allow any of our employees to do any act like that .
READ MORE : Farage warns Boris to drop 'pro-China instinct ' as he exposes state Jerome Cohen , a New York University @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adjunct senior fellow , said : “ There is no way Huawei can resist any order from the [ People ’ s Republic of China ] Government or the Chinese Communist Party to do its bidding in any context , commercial or otherwise .
“ Huawei would have to turn over all requested data and perform whatever other surveillance activities are required.
” Martin Thorley , of the University of Nottingham , added : “ The idea of fighting a request of this nature in the courts is not realistic .
In truth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been true — that one must submit to the Party if called upon .
“ Added to this , a company of Huawei ’ s size , working in what is considered a sensitive sector , simply can not succeed in China without extensive links to the Party.
” The original approval for Huawei to form part of the British 5G network came from former Prime Minister Theresa May .
Gavin Williamson was sacked as Defence Secretary as Mrs May believed he was the source of the leak regarding Huawei ’ s involvement @

Coronavirus: The left are 'turning a blind eye to China' says caller
The Arkansas Senator was speaking as debate continues as to whether Huawei can be trusted within the UK 5G network. There is concern that the telecommunications firm could allow Beijing backdoor access to sensitive information, something Huawei has always denied. Mr Cotton warned: “It is my hope that the special relationship remains strong although I fear China is attempting to drive a hi-tech wedge between us using Huawei.
Trending
Washington has warned allies they risk being cut off from intelligence sharing programmes if they make deals with Huawei. Huawei Vice President Victor Zhang said: “It’s clear that market position, rather than security concerns, is what underpins America’s attack on Huawei. “The committee was given no evidence to substantiate security allegations.” Britain has said Huawei’s involvement will be limited to 35 percent and it will be excluded from the sensitive core.
Tom Cotton warned about what Huawei would do to the special relationship
There are concerns over how secure Huawei is
In recent weeks, reports have said that Boris Johnson is looking to reduce Huawei’s involvement in the 5G network to zero by 2023. The US has long warned other nations that Huawei is unsafe. Mr Cotton said: “I do hope that as the government refines its decision, that if it doesn’t reverse it outright, it will mitigate it and minimise the use of Huawei technology, put it on a shorter time frame.” Huawei’s billionaire founder Ren Zhengfei told CNBC: “We never participate in espionage, and we do not allow any of our employees to do any act like that. READ MORE: Farage warns Boris to drop 'pro-China instinct' as he exposes state
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Reports suggest Mr Johnson is rethinking Huawei's involvement
Theresa May approved Huawei's role in the 5G network originally
Boris Johnson is thought to have discussed Huawei with Mr Pompeo
Jerome Cohen, a New York University law professor and Council on Foreign Relations adjunct senior fellow, said: “There is no way Huawei can resist any order from the [People’s Republic of China] Government or the Chinese Communist Party to do its bidding in any context, commercial or otherwise. “Huawei would have to turn over all requested data and perform whatever other surveillance activities are required.” Martin Thorley, of the University of Nottingham, added: “The idea of fighting a request of this nature in the courts is not realistic. In truth the law only confirms what has long been true — that one must submit to the Party if called upon.
Huawei: Conservative rebellion 'isn't over' says Bob Seely
“Added to this, a company of Huawei’s size, working in what is considered a sensitive sector, simply cannot succeed in China without extensive links to the Party.” The original approval for Huawei to form part of the British 5G network came from former Prime Minister Theresa May. Gavin Williamson was sacked as Defence Secretary as Mrs May believed he was the source of the leak regarding Huawei’s involvement.
Gavin Williamson was accused of leaking Huawei's involvement


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Furlough cost rises £2.5bn in a WEEK as thousands more signed off

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Some 8.7 million workers are now on furlough , up 300,000 over the past week and adding another £2.5 billion to the costs .
Meanwhile , another 200,000 self-employed have claimed support from the state in the same period , taking the total to 2.5 million .
The latest rise means around a third of the workforce is being propped up by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes mean for pension savings Self employed scheme extension : When can I claim second grant ?
The value of claims so far comes to £24.7billion - but experts have warned the final costs of the two schemes could top £100billion .
The latest figures released by HM Revenue and Customs showed 8.7 million on furlough from 1.1 million businesses as of Sunday , up from 8.4 million from a million firms seven days earlier .
At that stage the value of claims was £15 billion , but it has now hit £17.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underwrite 80 percent of the salaries of workers , up to a ceiling of £2,500 a month .
It is designed to prevent companies making mass redundancies , but there have been warnings that many are just treating it as a 'waiting room ' for people who will later be laid off .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said last week that businesses will have to start contributing to the furlough costs from August , in a bid to wean the economy off subsidies .
At that point their will need to pay National Insurance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to meet 20 percent of the furlough bill .
The scheme is due to end entirely at that point .

Rishi Sunak outlines furlough scheme changes for employers
Some 8.7 million workers are now on furlough, up 300,000 over the past week and adding another £2.5 billion to the costs. Meanwhile, another 200,000 self-employed have claimed support from the state in the same period, taking the total to 2.5 million. The latest rise means around a third of the workforce is being propped up by the government.
The value of claims so far comes to £24.7billion - but experts have warned the final costs of the two schemes could top £100billion. The latest figures released by HM Revenue and Customs showed 8.7 million on furlough from 1.1 million businesses as of Sunday, up from 8.4 million from a million firms seven days earlier. At that stage the value of claims was £15 billion, but it has now hit £17.5 billion. The scheme sees the government underwrite 80 percent of the salaries of workers, up to a ceiling of £2,500 a month. It is designed to prevent companies making mass redundancies, but there have been warnings that many are just treating it as a 'waiting room' for people who will later be laid off. Chancellor Rishi Sunak said last week that businesses will have to start contributing to the furlough costs from August, in a bid to wean the economy off subsidies. At that point their will need to pay National Insurance, while by October they will have to meet 20 percent of the furlough bill. The scheme is due to end entirely at that point.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak
Employees will not see any reduction in their entitlement while the scheme is operating. Staff will be able to return to work part-time without losing any furlough pay from next month. HMRC also revealed that 2.5 million claims totalling £7.2 billion have been made under the self-employed scheme. That was up from 2.3 million claims the previous week. That bailout has been extended to provide one “final” grant next month, with the percentage of average monthly income covered being reduced from 80 percent to 60 percent. Government figures also revealed that, up to last Sunday, nearly 750,000 businesses had been approved for loans worth more than £31.3 billion, £21.3 billion of it under the bounce back loan scheme which was used by 700,000 firms. More than £8.9 billion has been lent to nearly 46,000 companies under CBILS, and a further £1.1 billion to 191 companies as part of CLBILS, aimed at larger businesses.
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A further 74,000 firms have not yet been approved for the loans, which require minimum checks and can give a business up to £50,000 in their account within days. The Government has promised to step in to pay back 100 percent of the loans handed out by high street lenders such as RBS and Bank of Scotland owner Lloyds Group as part of the bounce back scheme. It only guarantees 80 percent under CBILS and CLBILS. Stephen Jones, Chief Executive of UK Finance, said: "These figures show that the banking and finance sector is committed to playing its part in helping businesses across the UK through these tough times.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Brexit warning: Nissan UK plant ‘unsustainable’ without EU trade deal

The firm ’ s chief operating head , Ashwani Gupta , told the BBC that the EU was the manufacturing plant ’ s biggest customer .
He added that the Japanese firm could not remain if the tariff-free EU access was not in place .
The factory , which cost Nissan billions of pounds , has 7,000 staff members .
His warning comes after the Sunderland plant announced it will stay open in light of the company ’ s restructuring plans .
Mr Gupta said : `` You know we are the number one carmaker in the UK and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Having said that , if we are not getting the current tariffs , it 's not our intention but the business will not be sustainable .
That 's what everybody has to understand.
” He also said that its strategic partner and 43 percent-shareholder Renault would assess whether assume spare capacity at Sunderland .
The French government has a 15 percent stake in Renault .
Nissan has previously asked UK and EU negotiators to exempt the 70 percent of vehicles produced at Sunderland which are sold in the EU from tariffs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is , under World Trade Organisation rules , the legal default situation in case a deal is not reached .
Last week , Michel Barnier , the EU 's chief negotiator , said the EU would contemplate a two-year Brexit extension .
UK ’ s chief negotiator , David Frost , refuted the possibility , telling MPs the Government is still set on not extending the transition period beyond the end of the year .
According to a deal reached last year , the UK has until the end of this month to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced that it was closing down factories in Spain and Indonesia , but the one in Sunderland will remain open .
DO N'T MISS : Camilla reveals rare unseen pictures of her grandchildren [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus : Trend in Italy spikes hopes of virus becoming 'impotent ' [ UPDATES ] THIS country sets out negotiation team to avoid US-Iran clash [ REVEALED ] Nissan claimed that Renault might assume the European lead in the firm ’ s global manufacturing alliance ( including Mitsubishi ) by taking up an approximated 20 percent spare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebutted the claims last week saying it currently has no intentions of moving to the UK .
Mr Gupta echoed the claims that any move by its associates would be their decision , and that no such plans had been discussed .
`` When it comes to the allocation of manufacturing , each company will take the decision based on the competitiveness of the plants , ” he said .
Nissan has honoured the Sunderland factory ’ s efforts to remain efficient as well as its hard work .

Brexit: Global nations ‘keen’ for trade deal says John Redwood
The firm’s chief operating head, Ashwani Gupta, told the BBC that the EU was the manufacturing plant’s biggest customer. He added that the Japanese firm could not remain if the tariff-free EU access was not in place.
Trending
The factory, which cost Nissan billions of pounds, has 7,000 staff members.
His warning comes after the Sunderland plant announced it will stay open in light of the company’s restructuring plans.
Mr Gupta said: "You know we are the number one carmaker in the UK and we want to continue. We are committed.
“Having said that, if we are not getting the current tariffs, it's not our intention but the business will not be sustainable. That's what everybody has to understand.”
Nissan UK plant ‘unsustainable’ without EU trade deal
He also said that its strategic partner and 43 percent-shareholder Renault would assess whether assume spare capacity at Sunderland.
The French government has a 15 percent stake in Renault.
Nissan has previously asked UK and EU negotiators to exempt the 70 percent of vehicles produced at Sunderland which are sold in the EU from tariffs of 10 percent.
The 10 percent is, under World Trade Organisation rules, the legal default situation in case a deal is not reached. READ MORE: Flights: Photo shows passenger’s extreme coronavirus protection
Nissan’s chief operating head, Ashwani Gupta, told the BBC that the EU was the plant’s biggest customer
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Last week, Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator, said the EU would contemplate a two-year Brexit extension.
UK’s chief negotiator, David Frost, refuted the possibility, telling MPs the Government is still set on not extending the transition period beyond the end of the year.
According to a deal reached last year, the UK has until the end of this month to request an extension.
Nissan last week announced that it was closing down factories in Spain and Indonesia, but the one in Sunderland will remain open. DON'T MISS:
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Nissan last week announced that it was closing down factories in Spain and Indonesia
Nissan claimed that Renault might assume the European lead in the firm’s global manufacturing alliance (including Mitsubishi) by taking up an approximated 20 percent spare capacity at the Sunderland space.
Renault rebutted the claims last week saying it currently has no intentions of moving to the UK.
Mr Gupta echoed the claims that any move by its associates would be their decision, and that no such plans had been discussed.
"When it comes to the allocation of manufacturing, each company will take the decision based on the competitiveness of the plants,” he said.
Nissan has honoured the Sunderland factory’s efforts to remain efficient as well as its hard work.
Nissan claimed that Renault might assume the European lead in the firm’s global manufacturing alliance


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Priti Patel issues stark warning about a second coronavirus wave – ‘we will all suffer’

Writing for The Telegraph , the Home Secretary warned “ we will all suffer if we get this wrong ” while claiming the tourism industry will be restored faster if strict restrictions are put in place .
The commentary mentions the so-called air bridges that would allow quarantine-free journeys between the UK and specific countries .
The Cabinet has experienced frequent debates over the 14-day quarantine imposed on those arriving in the UK from Monday .
Ms Patel wrote the article jointly with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps , who first proposed the idea of establishing air corridors , in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Various Cabinet members raised the issue that it was key that air bridges were functional before July and it is understood that Downing Street has not rejected the possibility .
However , Home Office sources have emphasised that air bridges may not be in use by the end of this month .
Critics said the measure should have been implemented at the beginning of the pandemic .
Professor Neil Ferguson , the Imperial College modeller who persuaded the Prime Minister to implement lockdown , said on Tuesday that in late February and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came into the country ” from Spain and Italy and not , as believed , from China , the US and Asia .
A YouGov poll revealed that 63 percent of those surveyed supported Ms Patel ’ s stance on implementing a quarantine on most arrivals .
A quarter argued that the quarantine should only apply to countries with high infection numbers .
Only four percent of those who took part in the poll were against any quarantine .
Bosses of over 300 of the UK ’ s leading travel and hospitality firms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to lay off up to 60 percent of their workforce , even with air corridors set up by the end of June .
Ms Patel argued that the restriction would ensure the virus would stop spreading and consequently everything could go back to normal sooner .
She added that this would enable the tourism industry be “ up and running faster.
” DO N'T MISS : Camilla reveals rare unseen pictures of her grandchildren [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus : Trend in Italy spikes hopes of virus becoming 'impotent ' [ UPDATES ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avoid US-Iran clash [ REVEALED ] She said : “ We will all suffer if we get this wrong and that is why it is crucial that we introduce these measures now .
“ Let ’ s not throw away our progress in tackling this deadly virus .
We owe it to the thousands who have died .
“ The Government will review these and other measures , looking at global infection rates , the measures in place around the world , and the latest scientific advances to consider further options such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prime Minister has outlined , we must take it one step at a time .
“ We must keep the country safe from potentially infected passengers unknowingly spreading the virus to others in society and ensure that the public ’ s health always comes first .
”

Priti Patel insists the UK’s borders are not closing
Writing for The Telegraph, the Home Secretary warned “we will all suffer if we get this wrong” while claiming the tourism industry will be restored faster if strict restrictions are put in place. The commentary mentions the so-called air bridges that would allow quarantine-free journeys between the UK and specific countries.
Trending
The Cabinet has experienced frequent debates over the 14-day quarantine imposed on those arriving in the UK from Monday.
Ms Patel wrote the article jointly with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, who first proposed the idea of establishing air corridors, in an attempt to show consensus over the decision.
Various Cabinet members raised the issue that it was key that air bridges were functional before July and it is understood that Downing Street has not rejected the possibility.
However, Home Office sources have emphasised that air bridges may not be in use by the end of this month.
Priti Patel issued a stark warning about a second coronavirus wave
Critics said the measure should have been implemented at the beginning of the pandemic.
Professor Neil Ferguson, the Imperial College modeller who persuaded the Prime Minister to implement lockdown, said on Tuesday that in late February and early March “thousands of infected individuals came into the country” from Spain and Italy and not, as believed, from China, the US and Asia.
A YouGov poll revealed that 63 percent of those surveyed supported Ms Patel’s stance on implementing a quarantine on most arrivals.
A quarter argued that the quarantine should only apply to countries with high infection numbers. READ MORE: Flights: Photo shows passenger’s extreme coronavirus protection
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps first proposed the idea of establishing air corridors
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Only four percent of those who took part in the poll were against any quarantine.
Bosses of over 300 of the UK’s leading travel and hospitality firms warned the Government the move could force them to lay off up to 60 percent of their workforce, even with air corridors set up by the end of June.
Ms Patel argued that the restriction would ensure the virus would stop spreading and consequently everything could go back to normal sooner.
She added that this would enable the tourism industry be “up and running faster.” DON'T MISS:
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Coronavirus: Trend in Italy spikes hopes of virus becoming 'impotent' [UPDATES]
THIS country sets out negotiation team to avoid US-Iran clash [REVEALED]
The vital importance of social distancing
She said: “We will all suffer if we get this wrong and that is why it is crucial that we introduce these measures now.
“Let’s not throw away our progress in tackling this deadly virus. We owe it to the thousands who have died.
“The Government will review these and other measures, looking at global infection rates, the measures in place around the world, and the latest scientific advances to consider further options such as international travel corridors.
“But as the Prime Minister has outlined, we must take it one step at a time.
“We must keep the country safe from potentially infected passengers unknowingly spreading the virus to others in society and ensure that the public’s health always comes first.”
Critics said quarantine should have been implemented at the beginning of the pandemic


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--‘You already failed!’ Theresa May attacked after Brexit warning shot to Boris

Mrs May quizzed her replacement in Downing Street , Boris Johnson , about what Brexit would mean for data sharing and border security .
However , the Bruges Group quickly took to social media , tweeting : `` We don ’ t need to hear Theresa May ’ s opinion about Brexit , or our post-transition relationship with the EU .
`` Her Government failed comprehensively to deliver on the instructions of the British people , which is why Boris Johnson is now Prime Minister . ''
Director Robert Oulds was equally forthright afterwards , telling Express.co.uk : `` Theresa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal .
`` Her whole negotiating strategy was to hold her hands up in the air and do anything the EU demanded .
`` Her premiership was an embarrassment to her , the Conservative Party and the country .
`` A dignified silence wold not go amiss and that would help Theresa May 's reputation in the long run .
`` Theresa May failed in Europe and Boris Johnson has succeeded - the way forward is not a Theresa May strategy of capitulation .
`` It is to stand firm against the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right thing and come to a free trade agreement whereby everybody wins .
`` If not the European Union will find itself in even more economic difficulties .
`` Boris Johnson knows the way forward - unfortunately Theresa May did not . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit fury : Boris and Varadkar set to clash over UK-Ireland customs [ LATEST ] Varadkar humiliation : How Irish PM sparked Twitter outrage [ UPDATE ] Varadkar shamed : Plot to keep lame-duck PM in power condemned [ LATEST ] The Bruges Group 's post struck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One said : `` Theresa 's May 's idea of negotiation - Say Yes to every EU demand and make it publicly known that you will say YES to all future demands . ''
Another added : `` We already know her opinion on Brexit .
`` Must delay it as much as possible and hopefully it will go away ! ''
A third said : `` I think May should button it !
She did a grave disservice to Britain . ''
Speaking during Prime Minister 's Questions today , Mrs May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focusing on keeping people safe , but that task goes beyond COVID-19 .

Theresa May questions Johnson on Brexit talks during PMQs
Mrs May quizzed her replacement in Downing Street, Boris Johnson, about what Brexit would mean for data sharing and border security. However, the Bruges Group quickly took to social media, tweeting: "We don’t need to hear Theresa May’s opinion about Brexit, or our post-transition relationship with the EU.
Trending
"Her Government failed comprehensively to deliver on the instructions of the British people, which is why Boris Johnson is now Prime Minister." Director Robert Oulds was equally forthright afterwards, telling Express.co.uk: "Theresa May had nearly three years to negotiate a deal. "Her whole negotiating strategy was to hold her hands up in the air and do anything the EU demanded.
Boris Johnson was today challenged in the Commons by former PM Theresa May
The Bruges Group's tweet
A dignified silence wold not go amiss and that would help Theresa May's reputation in the long run Robert Oulds, Bruges Group director
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"Her premiership was an embarrassment to her, the Conservative Party and the country. "A dignified silence wold not go amiss and that would help Theresa May's reputation in the long run. "Theresa May failed in Europe and Boris Johnson has succeeded - the way forward is not a Theresa May strategy of capitulation. JUST IN: Putin snub: Russia's leader refuses Boris's vaccine summit invitation
Theresa May in the Commons today
Prime Minister Boris Johnson answers Mrs May
Theresa May was Prime Minister for just over three years
The Bruges Group's post struck a chord with many Twitter users. One said: "Theresa's May's idea of negotiation - Say Yes to every EU demand and make it publicly known that you will say YES to all future demands." Another added: "We already know her opinion on Brexit.
Brexit timeline
"Must delay it as much as possible and hopefully it will go away!" A third said: "I think May should button it ! She did a grave disservice to Britain." Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions today, Mrs May asked: "He has rightly been focusing on keeping people safe, but that task goes beyond COVID-19.
Replies to the Bruges Group's post were in broad agreement
Brexit: Government must be ‘tough’ in talks says David Davis


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Boris Johnson: How PM could be forced to quarantine for 14 days to save Brexit

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Boris Johnson has been at the forefront of Britain ’ s coronavirus response since his return to work after recovering from a serious bout of COVID-19 .
From June 8 a new 14-day mandatory will be implemented across the UK with fines up to £1,000 for those who breach rules .
But could the PM be forced to quarantine in his mission to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , Mr Johnson led the Government ’ s daily press briefing on coronavirus .
He defended the Government ’ s decision to impose the two-week quarantine from June 8 adding the Government intends to review the measures every three weeks .
Mr Johnson said : “ Once community transmission was widespread within the UK , cases from abroad made up a tiny proportion of the total .
“ At the same time you will remember international travel plummeted as countries around the world went into lockdown .
“ As a result measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made little difference at the time in our fight against the virus .
“ Now that we ’ re getting the virus under control in the UK , there is a risk that cases from abroad begin once again to make up a greater proportion of overall cases .
“ We therefore need to take steps now to manage that risk of these imported cases triggering a second peak.
” READ MORE : Brexit progress : Four key reasons ‘ deal could be reached ’

Boris Johnson says he wants to reduce social distancing rules
Boris Johnson has been at the forefront of Britain’s coronavirus response since his return to work after recovering from a serious bout of COVID-19. From June 8, a new 14-day mandatory will be implemented across the UK with fines up to £1,000 for those who breach rules. But could the PM be forced to quarantine in his mission to “Get Brexit Done”?
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On Wednesday, Mr Johnson led the Government’s daily press briefing on coronavirus. He defended the Government’s decision to impose the two-week quarantine from June 8 adding the Government intends to review the measures every three weeks. Mr Johnson said: “Once community transmission was widespread within the UK, cases from abroad made up a tiny proportion of the total. “At the same time you will remember international travel plummeted as countries around the world went into lockdown. “As a result measures at the border were halted because they made little difference at the time in our fight against the virus. “Now that we’re getting the virus under control in the UK, there is a risk that cases from abroad begin once again to make up a greater proportion of overall cases. “We therefore need to take steps now to manage that risk of these imported cases triggering a second peak.” READ MORE: Brexit progress: Four key reasons ‘deal could be reached’
Boris Johnson quarantine: Will the PM be forced to quarantine for two weeks this month?
Boris Johnson quarantine: The PM defended the 14-day travel quarantine on Wednesday
READ MORE Nicola Sturgeon shame: Scottish leader faces backlash over care homes The Government’s position was supported by Home Secretary Priti Patel who spoke from the House of Commons on Wednesday. Miss Patel said Border Force will check that travellers fill out a form with their contact details and location for isolation. She added leaving isolation during that time could result in a fine of up to £1,000 or prosecution. The Home Secretary added: “We will not allow a reckless minority to put our domestic recovery at risk.” Britain officially left the European Union on January 31, entering a transition year during which the specific arrangements for trade, law enforcement, standards and safety and more areas need to be negotiated. The fourth round of talks began this month as both the UK and EU are due to take stock of progress at a meeting of Mr Johnson with EU leaders. The PM is due to meet with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President Charles Michel in Brussels on June 18 according to The Times.
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Boris Johnson quarantine: The mandatory quarantine comes into effect on June 8
Downing Street hopes this summit will lead to progress in trade talks with the bloc. The PM’s chief negotiator David Frost said Mr Johnson will meet the President of the European Commission and President of the European Council to formally assess the state of negotiations. Mr Frost has ruled out any extension to the Brexit transition period beyond the end of 2020. But this would have to be agreed at the summit from June 1. DON'T MISS
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Brexit WARNING: Where EU would suffer 'economic hit' with no deal [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE Sturgeon told she has 'failed' students as figures show very few learn If Mr Johnson does attend Brexit negotiations in Brussels, he may be forced to undertake self-isolation for 14 days unless the PM agrees to create an air bridge between the UK and Belgium before the meeting takes place. An air bridge would allow passengers travelling between the UK and specific destinations not needing to self-isolate for 14 days after arriving in the UK. Air bridges would be implemented on routes between countries deemed at low-risk of spreading coronavirus. Belgium has had 58,685 cases of coronavirus, of which 9,522 have died which is a fatality rate of 16.23 percent. This is substantially more than the first proposed location for an air bridge: Portugal where there have been 33,261 cases and 1,447 deaths with a fatality rate of 4.35 percent.
Boris Johnson quarantine: The PM is due to meet Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel in Brussels on June 18
But Mr Johnson could also be exempt from quarantine. The Government has published a list of those who do not need to self isolate when returning to the UK from abroad. They are: Road haulage and freight workers, to ensure the supply of goods is not impacted
Medical professionals who are travelling to help with the fight against coronavirus
Anyone moving from within the Common Travel Area, covering Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man
Seasonal Agricultural Workers who will self-isolate on the property where they are working.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Brexit WARNING: Where EU would suffer 'economic hit' if no deal reached with UK exposed

Boris Johnson delivered on his promise to `` get Brexit done '' on January 31 after the withdrawal agreement he secured with the EU at the end of last year was voted through the UK Parliament .
This led to the beginning of talks on a post-Brexit trade deal and future relationship between the two sides in March , with hope an agreement could be signed before the end of the transition period on December 31 , 2020 .
But talks have quickly descended into chaotic fashion , with the UK and EU teams trading brutal insults over each other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ included in any potential trade deal .
Last week , the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to opposition party leaders , making clear Brussels is open to extending the transition people by up to two years to allow more time for a more lucrative trade deal to be concluded .
But this was immediately rebuffed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the UK 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost , who are continuing to insist any trade deal must be signed by December 31 , 2020 .
Now a leading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in which the EU could take an `` economic hit '' in the event of talks completely collapsing and a resulting no deal Brexit for both sides .
David Henig is director of the UK Trade Policy Project at the European Centre for International Political Economy ( ECIPE ) , and in 2017 co-founded the UK Trade Forum .
He also worked on trade and investment issues for the UK Government for several years .
Writing in a blog post on the ECIPE website , he said : `` It is often thought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from failure to conclude a trade deal than the UK , but there would be an economic hit .
`` The UK is the EU27 ’ s second-largest external trading partner after the US , and losses can be expected in areas like automotive and agriculture as a result of no deal .
`` Access to UK fishing waters is important for some coastal Member States , and the issue of access to UK financial services markets will remain given their current dominance .
`` Implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : Lockdown lift DELAY after new law introduced But Mr Henig also warned the UK will not come out of a no deal Brexit without its own financial implications , highlighting a number of trade areas that could feel the impact , particularly in addition to struggles resulting from the coronavirus pandemic .
He said : `` Ultimately the UK ’ s decision will , therefore , be one for the Prime Minister , on whether it is better to have a deal and claim victory , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still claim victory .
`` There are numerous risks economically from no-deal , including the future of the UK car industry , food exports , and the UK ’ s services sector .
`` UK business already reeling for the COVID-19 pandemic already expect further costs and disruption , and international investors are increasingly wary .
DO N'T MISS Scotland faces financial ruin as billions could be wiped off economy [ FORECAST ] David Davis pinpoints exact moment Theresa May 's Brexit team doomed [ COMMENT ] Brexit stance from May 's team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by EU [ OPINION ] '' It is more likely however that the Government will focus on the messaging , thus thinking whether poor economic performance or factories closing will be blamed on no deal or coronavirus . ''
But the trade expert added that while the UK would also be taking a financial hit to many of its lucrative industry sectors , the British Government could in fact use a no deal Brexit to its advantage in a possible blame-game strategy .
Mr Henig added : `` The absence of a deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future cooperation more difficult , from customs clearance to visas and security issues .

Theresa May questions Johnson on Brexit talks during PMQs
Boris Johnson delivered on his promise to "get Brexit done" on January 31 after the withdrawal agreement he secured with the EU at the end of last year was voted through the UK Parliament. This led to the beginning of talks on a post-Brexit trade deal and future relationship between the two sides in March, with hope an agreement could be signed before the end of the transition period on December 31, 2020. But talks have quickly descended into chaotic fashion, with the UK and EU teams trading brutal insults over each other's negotiating strategies and demands to be included in any potential trade deal.
Trending
Last week, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to opposition party leaders, making clear Brussels is open to extending the transition people by up to two years to allow more time for a more lucrative trade deal to be concluded. But this was immediately rebuffed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost, who are continuing to insist any trade deal must be signed by December 31, 2020. Now a leading trade expert has outlined several key areas in which the EU could take an "economic hit" in the event of talks completely collapsing and a resulting no deal Brexit for both sides. David Henig is director of the UK Trade Policy Project at the European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE), and in 2017 co-founded the UK Trade Forum. He also worked on trade and investment issues for the UK Government for several years.
Brexit news: The EU has been warned it will take an 'economic hit' from a no deal scenario
Brexit news: Michel Barmier has said the EU is open to extending the transition period by up to two years
Writing in a blog post on the ECIPE website, he said: "It is often thought that the EU has less to lose from failure to conclude a trade deal than the UK, but there would be an economic hit. "The UK is the EU27’s second-largest external trading partner after the US, and losses can be expected in areas like automotive and agriculture as a result of no deal. "Access to UK fishing waters is important for some coastal Member States, and the issue of access to UK financial services markets will remain given their current dominance. "Implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol will be considerably easier with a deal." READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Lockdown lift DELAY after new law introduced
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson has insisted the transition period will not be extended
But Mr Henig also warned the UK will not come out of a no deal Brexit without its own financial implications, highlighting a number of trade areas that could feel the impact, particularly in addition to struggles resulting from the coronavirus pandemic. He said: "Ultimately the UK’s decision will, therefore, be one for the Prime Minister, on whether it is better to have a deal and claim victory, or not to have a deal and still claim victory. "There are numerous risks economically from no-deal, including the future of the UK car industry, food exports, and the UK’s services sector. "UK business already reeling for the COVID-19 pandemic already expect further costs and disruption, and international investors are increasingly wary. DON'T MISS
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David Davis pinpoints exact moment Theresa May's Brexit team doomed [COMMENT]
Brexit stance from May's team shows why UK ‘walked over’ by EU [OPINION]
Brexit news: Ursula von der Leyen has urged the UK to extend the transition eriod
Brexit news: Trade talks between the UK and EU began in March
"It is more likely however that the Government will focus on the messaging, thus thinking whether poor economic performance or factories closing will be blamed on no deal or coronavirus." But the trade expert added that while the UK would also be taking a financial hit to many of its lucrative industry sectors, the British Government could in fact use a no deal Brexit to its advantage in a possible blame-game strategy. Mr Henig added: "The absence of a deal will also make many essential areas of future cooperation more difficult, from customs clearance to visas and security issues.
Brexit news: There is a deadline of June 30 for the transition period to be extended


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--Boris Johnson in huge U-Turn as he's forced to apologise to MPs for Rees-Mogg's decision

The Prime Minister was confronted on the issue by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer during Prime Minister 's Questions on Wednesday .
House of Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg denied MPs the right to vote by proxy in upcoming legislation as the Government ordered parliamentarians to return to work on Tuesday .
The proposal announced by the Commons Leader saw parliamentarians forming queues several hundred metres long in order to obey social distancing rules - despite the Lords planning a move online .
But on Wednesday , Boris Johnson was forced to backtrack on the decision and announce changes to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still shielding under coronavirus measures to vote by proxy .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that Tuesday 's scenes of MPs queuing to vote in person in the Commons and others not being unable to do so were `` shameful '' and pushed the Prime Minister to end the `` completely unnecessary and unacceptable '' process and instead allow remote voting to resume .
He told the Commons : `` If any other employer behaved like this , it 'd be a clear and obvious case of indirect discrimination under the Equalities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I do think he needs to consider what is really going on throughout the country where ordinary people are getting used to queuing for long periods of time to do their shopping or whatever it happens to be .
READ MORE : House of Commons in CHAOS as furious MPs rage at 'farcical ' scenes '' I do not think it 's unreasonable that we should ask parliamentarians to come back to this place and do their job for the people of this country .
`` I know it 's difficult and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I apologise to all those who have particular difficulties because they 're shielded or elderly , the change we 're making today will mean they should be able to vote by proxy . ''
He added : “ But I have to say , Mr Speaker , when the people of this country look at what we are doing , asking schools - he ( Sir Keir ) now says he supports schools to go back - our policy is test trace and isolate , his policy is agree , U-Turn and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say the people of this country on the whole want their parliamentarians to go back to work doing their job , passing legislation on behalf of the people of this country .
“ And that is what this Government intends to do.
” Senior Conservatives including a former Cabinet minister tabled amendments to the Government plans to force parliamentarians into the Commons in order to vote when they returned from recess on Tuesday .
The Equality and Human Rights Commission ( EHRC ) wrote to all MPs to `` raise our concern '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying it `` can not be right '' to exclude elected representatives .
The watchdog warned it would `` place at significant disadvantage '' MPs who are shielding or self-isolating due to age , disability , health or pregnancy , as well as those who will struggle to travel to Westminster .
The proposal was approved by 261 votes to 163 , majority 98 , while an amendment to allow remote voting to return was defeated by 185 votes to 242 , majority 57 , following a 46-minute division .
DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Westminster plan [ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson SMASHES his fist on dispatch box as he rages in PMQs [ VIDEO ] PMQs LIVE : Brazen Labour leader tells Boris Johnson to 'get a grip ! '
[ LIVE BLOG ] Robert Halfon is among the senior Tories who said the move would have turned individuals who , like him , are shielding and those who are ill or self-isolating into `` parliamentary eunuchs '' .
The chairman of the Education Select Committee accused Mr Rees-Mogg and his superiors of lacking empathy , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't care '' attitude .
`` Clearly in this case , sadly , Jacob and the powers that be are being harsh and unbending .
The MPs who genuinely can not come in , our democratic rights are being snipped away and we 're being turned into parliamentary eunuchs , '' Mr Halfon told the PA news agency .
`` Not only will the hundreds of MPs , who for one reason or another will not be able to come in because they are affected by Covid , be denied their fundamental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a voice in Parliament because they will not be able to vote . ''

PMQs: Boris Johnson ‘apologises' for Parliament return
The Prime Minister was confronted on the issue by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday. House of Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg denied MPs the right to vote by proxy in upcoming legislation as the Government ordered parliamentarians to return to work on Tuesday. The proposal announced by the Commons Leader saw parliamentarians forming queues several hundred metres long in order to obey social distancing rules - despite the Lords planning a move online.
Trending
But on Wednesday, Boris Johnson was forced to backtrack on the decision and announce changes to the proposal will be made to allow MPs still shielding under coronavirus measures to vote by proxy. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that Tuesday's scenes of MPs queuing to vote in person in the Commons and others not being unable to do so were "shameful" and pushed the Prime Minister to end the "completely unnecessary and unacceptable" process and instead allow remote voting to resume. He told the Commons: "If any other employer behaved like this, it'd be a clear and obvious case of indirect discrimination under the Equalities Act." Mr Johnson replied: "I do think he needs to consider what is really going on throughout the country where ordinary people are getting used to queuing for long periods of time to do their shopping or whatever it happens to be. READ MORE: House of Commons in CHAOS as furious MPs rage at 'farcical' scenes
Boris Johnson makes U-Turn on allowing MPs to vote by proxy
Jacob Rees-Mogg announced MPs could no longer vote by proxy on Tuesday
"I do not think it's unreasonable that we should ask parliamentarians to come back to this place and do their job for the people of this country. "I know it's difficult and I apologise to colleagues for the inconvenience and I apologise to all those who have particular difficulties because they're shielded or elderly, the change we're making today will mean they should be able to vote by proxy." He added: “But I have to say, Mr Speaker, when the people of this country look at what we are doing, asking schools - he (Sir Keir) now says he supports schools to go back - our policy is test trace and isolate, his policy is agree, U-Turn and then criticise. “But I can say the people of this country on the whole want their parliamentarians to go back to work doing their job, passing legislation on behalf of the people of this country. “And that is what this Government intends to do.”
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Jacob Rees-Mogg announces plan to bring MPs back to Commons
Senior Conservatives including a former Cabinet minister tabled amendments to the Government plans to force parliamentarians into the Commons in order to vote when they returned from recess on Tuesday. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) wrote to all MPs to "raise our concern" ahead of a vote on the move, saying it "cannot be right" to exclude elected representatives. The watchdog warned it would "place at significant disadvantage" MPs who are shielding or self-isolating due to age, disability, health or pregnancy, as well as those who will struggle to travel to Westminster. The proposal was approved by 261 votes to 163, majority 98, while an amendment to allow remote voting to return was defeated by 185 votes to 242, majority 57, following a 46-minute division. DON'T MISS:
Jacob Rees-Mogg attacked for bizarre Westminster plan [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson SMASHES his fist on dispatch box as he rages in PMQs [VIDEO]
PMQs LIVE: Brazen Labour leader tells Boris Johnson to 'get a grip!' [LIVE BLOG]
Coronavirus: MPs formed metres long queues to maintain social distance


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--PMQs LIVE: Boris retaliates at Keir Starmer's secret letter snub claim - 'I called him!'