inews--2020-05-19--Harry's Heroes: Euro Having A Laugh, ITV, review: An unexpectedly poignant insight into footballers

Harry's Heroes: Euro Having A Laugh, ITV, review: An unexpectedly poignant insight into footballers grappling with obsolescence

Harry 's Heroes : Euro Having A Laugh , ITV , review : An unexpectedly poignant insight into footballers grappling with obsolescence While there were moments of hilarious brilliance , it was the players struggles with depression and age that made for unmissable TV Behind the jokey facade of a bunch of 90s England footballers drinking their way across Europe , Harry ’ s Heroes : Euro Having a Laugh is strangely poignant , delivering some painful emotional truths .
Manager Harry Redknapp has been preparing his squad for a rematch against their German counterparts ( England beat them in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the real story here is the players ’ battle against time , depression and obsolescence .
When a footballer ’ s career comes to an end it can be like falling off a cliff , and many don ’ t cope .
Even the relatively fit players have been piling on the excess pounds and it was no surprise when they were trounced by a younger team from Metz in Monday night ’ s opener .
Neil 'Razor ' Ruddock annoyed former alcoholic Paul Merson with his bringe-drinking ( Photo : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ squad had to summon a Herculean effort just to overcome the cheeky part-timers of San Marino .
Redknapp ’ s troops were getting injured at such an extraordinary rate that he had to call in his doomsday weapon , Vinnie Jones , to scrape a win .
Whatever happens in tomorrow 's climactic Germany game , it ’ s the insights we gained into the players ’ lives that will stick in the memory .
The big drama of episode one was a confrontation between Paul Merson , an alcoholic and former gambling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ruddock , who seems hell-bent on boozing himself to death , ignoring medical warnings about his blood pressure and irregular heartbeat .
Merson ’ s intervention blew apart the cosy atmosphere and exposed Ruddock ’ s tragic self-deception , as well as his wife Leah ’ s terror at her husband ’ s looming fate .
Part two brought further revelations from the youngest member of the squad , 42-year-old Lee Hendrie , who tearfully recalled his experiences of bankruptcy and attempted suicide .
Not that it was all gloom and psychotherapy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get the boys interested in the artistic treasures of Florence was satiric brilliance , while a surreal practice match against a team of nude Frenchmen prompted goalkeeper David Seaman to flounce out in disgust .
Unmissable television .

Harry’s Heroes: Euro Having A Laugh, 9pm, ITV ★★★★★
Behind the jokey facade of a bunch of 90s England footballers drinking their way across Europe, Harry’s Heroes: Euro Having a Laugh is strangely poignant, delivering some painful emotional truths.
Manager Harry Redknapp has been preparing his squad for a rematch against their German counterparts (England beat them in last year’s first series), but the real story here is the players’ battle against time, depression and obsolescence.
When a footballer’s career comes to an end it can be like falling off a cliff, and many don’t cope. Even the relatively fit players have been piling on the excess pounds and it was no surprise when they were trounced by a younger team from Metz in Monday night’s opener.
In part two, the squad had to summon a Herculean effort just to overcome the cheeky part-timers of San Marino. Redknapp’s troops were getting injured at such an extraordinary rate that he had to call in his doomsday weapon, Vinnie Jones, to scrape a win.
Whatever happens in tomorrow’s climactic Germany game, it’s the insights we gained into the players’ lives that will stick in the memory.
The big drama of episode one was a confrontation between Paul Merson, an alcoholic and former gambling addict, and Neil “Razor” Ruddock, who seems hell-bent on boozing himself to death, ignoring medical warnings about his blood pressure and irregular heartbeat. Merson’s intervention blew apart the cosy atmosphere and exposed Ruddock’s tragic self-deception, as well as his wife Leah’s terror at her husband’s looming fate.
Read More Harry’s Heroes: the Full English: this sensitive programme was about far more than football
Part two brought further revelations from the youngest member of the squad, 42-year-old Lee Hendrie, who tearfully recalled his experiences of bankruptcy and attempted suicide.
Not that it was all gloom and psychotherapy. Assistant manager John Barnes’ hopeless efforts to get the boys interested in the artistic treasures of Florence was satiric brilliance, while a surreal practice match against a team of nude Frenchmen prompted goalkeeper David Seaman to flounce out in disgust. Unmissable television.
THEARTSDESK.COM


inews--2020-05-19--Arise, Sir Tom Moore! Captain will be knighted in honour of NHS fundraising

Arise , Sir Tom Moore !
Captain will be knighted in honour of NHS fundraising The 100-year-old Army veteran was nominated for the honour by Boris Johnson Colonel Tom Moore will be knighted in honour of his achievements in raising nearly £33m by walking 100 laps of his garden .
The 100-year-old Army veteran was recommended for the knighthood by Boris Johnson after his feat inspired millions of Britons during the depths of the national lockdown .
The announcement comes outside the regular cycle of honours which are usually handed out twice a year .
Others deemed to have contributed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognised later this year , with the public invited to nominate those they believe are deserving .
The Prime Minister said : `` Colonel Tom ’ s fantastic fundraising broke records , inspired the whole country and provided us all with a beacon of light through the fog of coronavirus .
On behalf of everyone who has been moved by his incredible story , I want to say a huge thank you .
He ’ s a true national treasure . ''
Captain Tom Moore captured the nation 's imagination with his fundraising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The honour will be formally announced on Wednesday after being approved by the Queen .
It is unlikely that Mr Moore will be able to pick up his knighthood in person until after the Covid-19 epidemic is under control .
He served as a captain during the Second World War , but has been promoted to honorary colonel after his fundraising exploits .
Mr Moore originally hoped to raise £1,000 by walking around his garden in Bedfordshire but has broken that target more than 30,000 times over .
News of the knighthood , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face questions over its handling of the pandemic , was welcomed across the political spectrum .
Labour leader Keir Starmer said : “ In these difficult times for our country , Tom brought inspiration to millions and helped all of us to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our NHS .
`` After serving his country during the war , Tom recognised that today ’ s heroes are our frontline NHS and care workers .
In his actions , Tom embodied the national solidarity which has grown throughout this crisis , and showed us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helping build a better future . ''
In the coming months , other `` frontline heroes '' will be honoured for their part in the national response .
A Government spokesman said : `` We know there is huge appetite to say thank you to all those supporting the nation during this emergency and doing incredible things day in , day out , up and down the country .
`` We will ensure these unsung heroes are recognised in the right way , at the right time . ''
In normal times honours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to mark the New Year and once for the Queen 's official birthday in June .

Colonel Tom Moore will be knighted in honour of his achievements in raising nearly £33m by walking 100 laps of his garden.
The 100-year-old Army veteran was recommended for the knighthood by Boris Johnson after his feat inspired millions of Britons during the depths of the national lockdown.
The announcement comes outside the regular cycle of honours which are usually handed out twice a year. Others deemed to have contributed to the fight against coronavirus will be recognised later this year, with the public invited to nominate those they believe are deserving.
The Prime Minister said: “Colonel Tom’s fantastic fundraising broke records, inspired the whole country and provided us all with a beacon of light through the fog of coronavirus. On behalf of everyone who has been moved by his incredible story, I want to say a huge thank you. He’s a true national treasure.”
‘Inspiration to millions’
The honour will be formally announced on Wednesday after being approved by the Queen. It is unlikely that Mr Moore will be able to pick up his knighthood in person until after the Covid-19 epidemic is under control.
He served as a captain during the Second World War, but has been promoted to honorary colonel after his fundraising exploits. Mr Moore originally hoped to raise £1,000 by walking around his garden in Bedfordshire but has broken that target more than 30,000 times over.
News of the knighthood, which comes as the Government continues to face questions over its handling of the pandemic, was welcomed across the political spectrum.
Labour leader Keir Starmer said: “In these difficult times for our country, Tom brought inspiration to millions and helped all of us to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our NHS.
“After serving his country during the war, Tom recognised that today’s heroes are our frontline NHS and care workers. In his actions, Tom embodied the national solidarity which has grown throughout this crisis, and showed us that everyone can play their part in helping build a better future.”
‘Frontline heroes’ to be honoured
In the coming months, other “frontline heroes” will be honoured for their part in the national response. A Government spokesman said: “We know there is huge appetite to say thank you to all those supporting the nation during this emergency and doing incredible things day in, day out, up and down the country.
“We will ensure these unsung heroes are recognised in the right way, at the right time.”
In normal times honours are announced twice a year, once to mark the New Year and once for the Queen’s official birthday in June.


inews--2020-05-19--Coronavirus: UK scientists condemn Donald Trump's use of hydroxychloroquine

Drug has not been licensed to treat or prevent Covid-19 Donald Trump 's revelation he is taking an anti-malarial drug to protect against coronavirus has been condemned by UK scientists .
But the UK Government has said hydroxychloroquine is not licensed to treat Covid-19 related symptoms or prevent infection and should not be used outside ongoing clinical trials , which have reached no conclusions over safety and effectiveness of the medicine on coronavirus .
Dr Stephen Griffin , associate professor in the School of Medicine , University of Leeds , said : `` Hydroxychloroquine is not licensed for the treatment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( US Food and Drug Administration ) , or any other agency .
`` In fact , the weight of evidence from most recent patient trials shows it to be ineffective , with the potential for adverse side effects including those affecting the heart . ''
He added the president 's remarks were `` a staggering , irresponsible act that could very well also amount to self-harm '' , warning hydroxychloroquine is prescribed and monitored carefully due to potential side effects and people following Mr Trump 's example could `` endanger themselves '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adviser Sir David King , said of Mr Trump : `` Every word he says should be ignored in terms of advice '' .
He added : `` I 'm sorry but this is not the pronouncements of a person who is listening to the scientists .
He is making it up as he goes along . ''
Hydroxychloroquine is a prescription drug taken in tablet form to treat and prevent malaria and to treat the autoimmune conditions lupus erythematosus , and rheumatoid arthritis .
Hydroxychloroquine , an anti-malarial drug , which the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus ( Photo : Getty ) It is being investigated in both the UK and US as a possible treatment for Covid-19 but it has not been approved for this use .
A study published in the medical journal the BMJ last week revealed there were no benefits to using the drug .
Researchers , trialling the drug in China during the peak of the outbreak on patients with a mild to moderate form of the disease , concluded : “ The results of our trial did not show additional benefits of virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standard of care in patients with mainly persistent mild to moderate Covid-19.
” Instead , it found many patients reported suffering more frequently from gastrointestinal problems such as nausea , vomiting and stomach pain , which are known side effects of the drug .

Donald Trump’s revelation he is taking an anti-malarial drug to protect against coronavirus has been condemned by UK scientists.
The US president has championed the use of hydroxychloroquine to tackle Covid-19.
But the UK Government has said hydroxychloroquine is not licensed to treat Covid-19 related symptoms or prevent infection and should not be used outside ongoing clinical trials, which have reached no conclusions over safety and effectiveness of the medicine on coronavirus.
Dr Stephen Griffin, associate professor in the School of Medicine, University of Leeds, said: “Hydroxychloroquine is not licensed for the treatment or prevention of Covid-19 by the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration), or any other agency.
“In fact, the weight of evidence from most recent patient trials shows it to be ineffective, with the potential for adverse side effects including those affecting the heart.”
Not licensed
He added the president’s remarks were “a staggering, irresponsible act that could very well also amount to self-harm”, warning hydroxychloroquine is prescribed and monitored carefully due to potential side effects and people following Mr Trump’s example could “endanger themselves”.
Meanwhile, former Government chief scientific adviser Sir David King, said of Mr Trump: “Every word he says should be ignored in terms of advice”.
He added: “I’m sorry but this is not the pronouncements of a person who is listening to the scientists. He is making it up as he goes along.”
Hydroxychloroquine is a prescription drug taken in tablet form to treat and prevent malaria and to treat the autoimmune conditions lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Prescription drug
It is being investigated in both the UK and US as a possible treatment for Covid-19 but it has not been approved for this use.
A study published in the medical journal the BMJ last week revealed there were no benefits to using the drug.
Researchers, trialling the drug in China during the peak of the outbreak on patients with a mild to moderate form of the disease, concluded: “The results of our trial did not show additional benefits of virus elimination from adding hydroxychloroquine to the current standard of care in patients with mainly persistent mild to moderate Covid-19.”
Instead, it found many patients reported suffering more frequently from gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting and stomach pain, which are known side effects of the drug.


inews--2020-05-19--UK suffered almost 55,000 more deaths than in an average year, says Office for National Statistics

UK suffered almost 55,000 more deaths than in an average year , says Office for National Statistics Three-quarters of the deaths were Covid-related Almost 55,000 more people have died in the UK so far this year than expected in an average year , according to official figures .
Nick Stripe , head of the health analysis and life events division at the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) said the number of excess deaths in the UK , those above the expected amount for this time of year , had reached just under 55,000 by early May .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Wales up to 8 May , we are now looking at an excess deaths figure of just under 50,000 .
“ If we look at the UK as a whole , that is just under 55,000 excess deaths.
” Excess death registrations in England and Wales rose by 3,081 in the week ending 8 May .
In Scotland and Northern Ireland it went up by 400 and 62 respectively .
Of these excess deaths , three quarters were Covid-19 related and 25 per cent did not have the virus listed as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has had almost 55,000 excess deaths so far this year , according to ONS ( Photo : Getty ) “ That is now a key area of research for us to get underneath that , to understand that ” , said Mr Stripe .
The ONS is expected to publish research within the next few weeks on why the excess deaths figure has been so high this year .
Mr Stripe said : “ Dementia and Alzheimer 's disease had gone up very , very significantly during April , as had deaths from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ That is often where the certifying doctor puts things like frailty or old age on the death certificate.
” There could be two reasons for this , according to Mr Stripe .
“ This big jump in the number of dementia and Alzheimer deaths could explain part of that reason there ” , said Mr Stripe , “ It could well be that in the very old , if the patient is not able to describe their symptoms very well … that perhaps the doctor has not felt able , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to put Covid on the death certificate .
”

Almost 55,000 more people have died in the UK so far this year than expected in an average year, according to official figures.
Nick Stripe, head of the health analysis and life events division at the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the number of excess deaths in the UK, those above the expected amount for this time of year, had reached just under 55,000 by early May.
He told the BBC: “Across England and Wales up to 8 May, we are now looking at an excess deaths figure of just under 50,000.
“If we look at the UK as a whole, that is just under 55,000 excess deaths.”
Excess deaths
The expected deaths figure is based on a five-year average.
Excess death registrations in England and Wales rose by 3,081 in the week ending 8 May. In Scotland and Northern Ireland it went up by 400 and 62 respectively.
It brings the total number of excess deaths in the UK to 54,522.
Of these excess deaths, three quarters were Covid-19 related and 25 per cent did not have the virus listed as a cause on the death certificate.
Covid-19 related
“That is now a key area of research for us to get underneath that, to understand that”, said Mr Stripe.
The ONS is expected to publish research within the next few weeks on why the excess deaths figure has been so high this year.
But an ONS report, published last Friday, has already given some indications.
It highlighted dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as the most common pre-existing condition found among deaths involving Covid-19.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
Mr Stripe said: “Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease had gone up very, very significantly during April, as had deaths from something known as ‘ill-defined conditions’.
“That is often where the certifying doctor puts things like frailty or old age on the death certificate.”
There could be two reasons for this, according to Mr Stripe.
The first was “normal care pathways” were disrupted, less people going to hospital to be treated.
Secondly, the virus may have been a cause but was not confirmed by the doctor.
“This big jump in the number of dementia and Alzheimer deaths could explain part of that reason there”, said Mr Stripe, “ It could well be that in the very old, if the patient is not able to describe their symptoms very well … that perhaps the doctor has not felt able, in the absence of a positive test, to put Covid on the death certificate.”


inews--2020-05-19--Labour conference 2020: Autumn conference cancelation is blow to party finances

Exclusive : axing the event could damage the party 's struggling finances Labour has become the first major party to cancel its autumn conference due to the coronavirus pandemic , in a move that could cost the party £1 million .
The party 's national executive committee voted to `` postpone '' the event , which was due to be held in Liverpool from 19-23 September , and will instead hold an online policy conference .
The event would have been the first under its new leader , Sir Keir Starmer , who has not yet address party members .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ axed due to lockdown .
A Labour spokesperson said : “ Our priority is the safety of members , staff and visitors to our events and the need to protect the public 's health .
In light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic , we have therefore decided to postpone this year ’ s annual and women ’ s conferences.
” The decision is likely to worsen Labour 's already struggling finances , with i learning that the annual event generates a profit of £1 million for party coffers .
Commercial visitors pay up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of members pay £110 a piece for access to the conference area .
More than 13,000 people were expected to visit Liverpool for the five day event , which included 450 fringe events at the city 's Echo Arena .
It is unclear to what extent insurance will protect the party against losses .
Labour is currently facing the treat of more than a dozen costly lawsuits from individuals named in a leaked report about anti-Semitism , which was published online with their details unredacted .
Last month Mark Lewis , a lawyer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recourse , told The Observer that the party could face a huge bill due to claims under the Data Protection Act , breach of confidence , invasion of privacy and libel .
A report by the Lib Dem federal conference committee calls for the event , currently scheduled to be held in Brighton from 26-29 September , to be cancelled and instead held digitally .
A spokesperson said : “ At present , planning for the Party conference is continuing .
We will keep this under review in light of the outbreak of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guided by the latest science and medical advice and Government guidance .
”

Labour has become the first major party to cancel its autumn conference due to the coronavirus pandemic, in a move that could cost the party £1 million.
The party’s national executive committee voted to “postpone” the event, which was due to be held in Liverpool from 19-23 September, and will instead hold an online policy conference.
The event would have been the first under its new leader, Sir Keir Starmer, who has not yet address party members. A planned leadership conference in April was axed due to lockdown.
A Labour spokesperson said: “Our priority is the safety of members, staff and visitors to our events and the need to protect the public’s health. In light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, we have therefore decided to postpone this year’s annual and women’s conferences.”
Struggling finances
The decision is likely to worsen Labour’s already struggling finances, with i learning that the annual event generates a profit of £1 million for party coffers.
Commercial visitors pay up to £1,050 for passes, while thousands of members pay £110 a piece for access to the conference area.
More than 13,000 people were expected to visit Liverpool for the five day event, which included 450 fringe events at the city’s Echo Arena. It is unclear to what extent insurance will protect the party against losses.
Labour is currently facing the treat of more than a dozen costly lawsuits from individuals named in a leaked report about anti-Semitism, which was published online with their details unredacted.
Last month Mark Lewis, a lawyer contacted by some of those seeking legal recourse, told The Observer that the party could face a huge bill due to claims under the Data Protection Act, breach of confidence, invasion of privacy and libel.
Party conference decisions
The decision comes as Liberal Democrat officials recommended the party move its conference online.
A report by the Lib Dem federal conference committee calls for the event, currently scheduled to be held in Brighton from 26-29 September, to be cancelled and instead held digitally.
The Conservatives still intend to hold their conference, but are reviewing guidance.
A spokesperson said: “At present, planning for the Party conference is continuing. We will keep this under review in light of the outbreak of coronavirus. Any decisions taken will be guided by the latest science and medical advice and Government guidance.”


inews--2020-05-19--Coronavirus and travel insurance: Can I claim back insurance premium in lockdown?

Coronavirus and travel insurance : Can I claim back insurance premium in lockdown ?
The coronavirus pandemic has put a stop to travel , and customers are able to claim some money back With the government stating that it doesn ’ t expect people to be going on holiday this summer , and the financial impact of the pandemic hitting everybody , it is sensible to look at your outgoings and see whether you can get some money back .
This is certainly true for your insurance policies , the terms on which you bought them may have changed radically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your car for commuting , for example , or spending all your time at home changes the risk you pose in the eyes of your insurer .
Some policies , like your travel cover , may be totally unusable .
Companies must be fair to customers Let ’ s start with the good news .
New rules introduced this week by the financial watchdog , the Financial Conduct Authority , state that insurers must carry out a whole range of measures to treat customers fairly and support people during the crisis .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monthly payments , partial refunds for annual policies , waiving cancellation fees and cancelling interest on missed payments .
You could even be offered a payment holiday on premiums for up to three months ( or longer , should your situation demand it ) .
These rules should cover all types of ‘ general ’ insurance , applying to car , home , travel , pet and mobile phone insurance , as well as ‘ protection ’ cover , such as life insurance , income protection and critical illness cover .
So now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could make some savings .
In the case of your travel insurance , contact your insurer and tell them you want to cancel your policy .
You should receive a pro-rata refund for the months remaining on your policy , though your insurer may backdate this to the time that the government issued advice against any travel ( only a few insurers have done this , to my knowledge ) .
Be prepared to be patient Contacting them may take time – insurers are inundated with claims and queries at the moment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays cancelled and bookings unfulfilled .
I ’ d recommend some patience and willpower for hold music , but going through live chat can sometimes prove a bit swifter .
Admiral is refunding £25 to all of its motor insurance customers at the end of May .
LV has set aside £30m to refund car and motorbike insurance customers between £20 and £50 for those who can prove they are suffering hardship as a result of the crisis .
Some 11 other major insurers told Which ?
that they are slashing their premiums @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fact that they will pay out less in claims .
If you ’ re not insured with either of these firms , there are steps you can take to cut your costs , such as reducing your annual mileage , removing second drivers that you are not living with , switching from comprehensive cover to fire and theft ( but only if you ’ re not driving ) .
Further changes on the way You should expect more changes coming to the policies that you own .
The regulator has told insurers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the changes brought about by the pandemic .
Car insurance should be cheaper because people are driving less , the regulator said , and also cited products like private medical cover where certain benefits were no longer available or boiler cover where an engineer couldn ’ t make a visit because of social distancing .

Q – I bought annual travel insurance at the beginning of the year, before the coronavirus pandemic started affecting travel. Can I get my premiums back?
Name and address supplied
A – Gareth says:
With the government stating that it doesn’t expect people to be going on holiday this summer, and the financial impact of the pandemic hitting everybody, it is sensible to look at your outgoings and see whether you can get some money back.
This is certainly true for your insurance policies, the terms on which you bought them may have changed radically. You may no longer be using your car for commuting, for example, or spending all your time at home changes the risk you pose in the eyes of your insurer. Some policies, like your travel cover, may be totally unusable.
Companies must be fair to customers
Let’s start with the good news. New rules introduced this week by the financial watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority, state that insurers must carry out a whole range of measures to treat customers fairly and support people during the crisis.
This could be in the form of reduced monthly payments, partial refunds for annual policies, waiving cancellation fees and cancelling interest on missed payments. You could even be offered a payment holiday on premiums for up to three months (or longer, should your situation demand it).
These rules should cover all types of ‘general’ insurance, applying to car, home, travel, pet and mobile phone insurance, as well as ‘protection’ cover, such as life insurance, income protection and critical illness cover. So now is the time to see where you could make some savings.
In the case of your travel insurance, contact your insurer and tell them you want to cancel your policy. You should receive a pro-rata refund for the months remaining on your policy, though your insurer may backdate this to the time that the government issued advice against any travel (only a few insurers have done this, to my knowledge).
Be prepared to be patient
Contacting them may take time – insurers are inundated with claims and queries at the moment, from people looking to make claims for holidays cancelled and bookings unfulfilled. I’d recommend some patience and willpower for hold music, but going through live chat can sometimes prove a bit swifter.
We’ve begun to see car insurers being proactive and offering refunds directly to customers.
Admiral is refunding £25 to all of its motor insurance customers at the end of May. LV has set aside £30m to refund car and motorbike insurance customers between £20 and £50 for those who can prove they are suffering hardship as a result of the crisis.
Some 11 other major insurers told Which? that they are slashing their premiums for new and renewing customers due to the fact that they will pay out less in claims.
If you’re not insured with either of these firms, there are steps you can take to cut your costs, such as reducing your annual mileage, removing second drivers that you are not living with, switching from comprehensive cover to fire and theft (but only if you’re not driving).
Further changes on the way
You should expect more changes coming to the policies that you own. The regulator has told insurers that they need their products to reflect the changes brought about by the pandemic.
Car insurance should be cheaper because people are driving less, the regulator said, and also cited products like private medical cover where certain benefits were no longer available or boiler cover where an engineer couldn’t make a visit because of social distancing.
These new measures should be introduced by the end of May.
Gareth Shaw is Head of Money at Which?. To ask him a question, email business@inews.co.uk


inews--2020-05-19--BBC Three: Normal People and Fleabag success puts TV channel's return on the table

BBC Three : Normal People and Fleabag success puts TV channel 's return on the table BBC says audience is there for BBC3 as a TV channel — so why did corporation axe it from airwaves just four years ago ?
BBC3 could return as a television channel after younger viewers flocked to hit shows such as Normal People and Fleabag , the broadcaster said .
Four years after closing BBC3 as a TV service to save money , a move criticised as premature by regulators , the BBC is considering a major U-turn .
Unveiling its annual plan for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have recaptured young people in a dramatic fashion - turning round an historic slide.
” The online-only BBC3 was hailed as “ a real hit machine - delivering some of our biggest performing shows , from Killing Eve , to Fleabag , and now Normal People.
” The Sally Rooney adaptation has received 38m requests to view it on the iPlayer .
“ Our research suggests there is a big available audience on linear television , so we will consider the case for restoring BBC3 as a linear channel as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
However “ no decisions have been taken and this will need to take into account how viewing habits develop during the Covid-19 crisis.
” The BBC said other departments would have to “ trim budgets ” to deliver the boost to BBC3 ’ s £40m budget .
BBC4 is likely to take a hit , although the BBC said it had “ no plans ” to close the channel or diminish its arts portfolio .
Covid-19 has cost the BBC £125m in lost income , with plans to charge the over-75s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There are questions over the digital platform 's direct impact .
Most viewers do not not associate Killing Eve , a BBC America commission premiered on the iPlayer and screened on BBC1 , with BBC3 .
The BBC 's own logic for closing BBC3 - that younger viewers are turning away from linear channels to consume content on platforms like YouTube - may still prove to be the case after the lockdown viewing revival dissipates .

BBC3 could return as a television channel after younger viewers flocked to hit shows such as Normal People and Fleabag, the broadcaster said.
Four years after closing BBC3 as a TV service to save money, a move criticised as premature by regulators, the BBC is considering a major U-turn.
Unveiling its annual plan for 2020/1, the BBC boasted: “We have recaptured young people in a dramatic fashion – turning round an historic slide.”
‘Hit machine’
The online-only BBC3 was hailed as “a real hit machine – delivering some of our biggest performing shows, from Killing Eve, to Fleabag, and now Normal People.”
The Sally Rooney adaptation has received 38m requests to view it on the iPlayer.
News coverage of the coronavirus crisis has also attracted large numbers of BBC3’s target 16-34 aged audience.
“Our research suggests there is a big available audience on linear television, so we will consider the case for restoring BBC3 as a linear channel as well as an online destination,” the BBC said.
No firm decision
However “no decisions have been taken and this will need to take into account how viewing habits develop during the Covid-19 crisis.”
The BBC said other departments would have to “trim budgets” to deliver the boost to BBC3’s £40m budget. BBC4 is likely to take a hit, although the BBC said it had “no plans” to close the channel or diminish its arts portfolio.
Covid-19 has cost the BBC £125m in lost income, with plans to charge the over-75s for licence fees placed on hold.
Weak case for TV return
However restoring BBC3 would add extra transmission and marketing costs to a cash-strapped BBC.
There are questions over the digital platform’s direct impact. Most viewers do not not associate Killing Eve, a BBC America commission premiered on the iPlayer and screened on BBC1, with BBC3.
The BBC’s own logic for closing BBC3 – that younger viewers are turning away from linear channels to consume content on platforms like YouTube – may still prove to be the case after the lockdown viewing revival dissipates.
BBC1 best window for BBC3
Like Gavin & Stacey, a previous BBC3 created hit, Fleabag, Killing Eve and Normal People enjoyed popularity with older audiences than the “youth” station’s demographic.
Their prominence was boosted after being screened on BBC1, the most effective means of giving BBC3 shows a wide audience.
BBC3’s budget was slashed from £85m a year to £35m when the linear channel closed in 2016. The bulk of the savings were diverted towards peak-time BBC1 drama.


inews--2020-05-19--A Very British Hotel Chain: Inside Best Western, Channel 4, review: This wacky workforce is unintent

A Very British Hotel Chain: Inside Best Western, Channel 4, review: This wacky workforce is unintentionally fun

A Very British Hotel Chain : Inside Best Western , Channel 4 , review : This wacky workforce is unintentionally fun This behind the scenes documentary introduced us to an interesting range of characters , including keen head of hotel development Martin Presumably Best Western thought three-part series A Very British Hotel Chain : Inside Best Western would be a handy publicity booster for their 265 hotels , with its portraits of the wacky but lovable workforce and the inevitable chortlesome voice-over .
But thanks to Covid-19 it now looks more like a message in a bottle , washed up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit to the Fowey Valley hotel in Cornwall was a chilling premonition of dark days ahead .
Rain lashed down , staff had been reduced because of lack of trade , and a solitary pair of guests dined amid a sea of empty tables .
Brrr !
Still , a career in the leisure business demands a thick skin and unquenchable optimism .
Up at Best Western ’ s HQ in York they have both by the gallon .
Mark Stanley , head of hotel development , grins away and loves his staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We saw him revelling in a sales , marketing and revenue conference , as staff were covered in pink gunk for charity .
“ Brilliant !
” raved Mark .
“ Best Western madness !
” They must be doing something right , because we watched superchef Marco Pierre White signing up his Rudloe Arms establishment , a partnership with Best Western , with his “ challenging ” artworks and giant photos of himself wielding a meat cleaver .
Perhaps he ’ ll use it on Alasdair , the wisecracking but ruthless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fun than you ’ d expect , though maybe not in the ways intended .

A Very British Hotel Chain: Inside Best Western, 9pm, Channel 4 ★★★
Presumably Best Western thought three-part series A Very British Hotel Chain: Inside Best Western would be a handy publicity booster for their 265 hotels, with its portraits of the wacky but lovable workforce and the inevitable chortlesome voice-over. But thanks to Covid-19 it now looks more like a message in a bottle, washed up from some long-submerged civilisation.
A winter visit to the Fowey Valley hotel in Cornwall was a chilling premonition of dark days ahead. Rain lashed down, staff had been reduced because of lack of trade, and a solitary pair of guests dined amid a sea of empty tables. Brrr!
Still, a career in the leisure business demands a thick skin and unquenchable optimism. Up at Best Western’s HQ in York they have both by the gallon.
Read More White Lines, Netflix, review: A 10-hour rave – fun at the time, but not one to remember
Mark Stanley, head of hotel development, grins away and loves his staff to tell him how great he is. We saw him revelling in a sales, marketing and revenue conference, as staff were covered in pink gunk for charity. “Brilliant!” raved Mark. “Best Western madness!”
They must be doing something right, because we watched superchef Marco Pierre White signing up his Rudloe Arms establishment, a partnership with Best Western, with his “challenging” artworks and giant photos of himself wielding a meat cleaver. Perhaps he’ll use it on Alasdair, the wisecracking but ruthless hotel inspector.
This show is more fun than you’d expect, though maybe not in the ways intended.
THEARTSDESK.COM


inews--2020-05-19--Older adults who use the internet daily 'more likely to be socially isolated'

Older adults who use the internet daily 'more likely to be socially isolated' Adults who go online each day are more likely to be socially isolated than those who log on less frequently Older people who use the internet every day are more likely to be socially isolated than those who go online less frequently , a study has suggested .
Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University ( ARU ) examined data from 4,492 adults in England with an average age of 64 , and found those who went online either once a week or month were less likely to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily .
Searching for information , sending emails and shopping were the most common online activities for more than two-thirds ( 69 per cent ) of respondents who went online every day .
More frequent web users were more likely to use a smartphone , while those logging on less often were more likely to use laptops .
Interestingly , those who used the internet every day reported similar levels of social isolation , which takes into consideration a person 's relationships , the number and diversity of the people they socialise with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never went online .
Close to nine in 10 ( 87 per cent ) of adults in Great Britain used the internet daily or almost every day in 2019 .
While almost all adults aged between 16 and 44 went online every day or most days ( 99 per cent ) , this fell to 61 per cent among adults aged 65 years old or over , according to the Office for National Statistics .
The study was conducted before the coronavirus outbreak ( Photo : Getty ) The study , which was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or the nationwide lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19 , was published in journal Ageing and Society .
Its findings suggest that older adults who use the internet less frequently may have a better handle on balancing interactions between their real-world and online contacts , with many too busy to go online every day , lead author Stephanie Stockwell , a PhD student at the Cambridge Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences at ARU , said .
`` We were surprised that daily internet users recorded similar levels of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the internet , '' she said .
`` It might be that many of these people go online to combat their social isolation .
Alternatively , going online more frequently might actually cause greater social isolation among some older adults as they reduce their physical contacts . ''
While older people with internet access are likely to be going online much more often as a result of the social-distancing restrictions , the study 's findings indicate this is unlikely to improve levels of social isolation , she added .
Senior author Dr Lee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public health at ARU , said one positive suggestion from the report is that internet advertising and targeted emails could be an effective , low-cost way of advising older internet users about physical activity or diet during the pandemic .

Older people who use the internet every day are more likely to be socially isolated than those who go online less frequently, a study has suggested.
Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) examined data from 4,492 adults in England with an average age of 64, and found those who went online either once a week or month were less likely to be socially isolated than those who used it daily.
Searching for information, sending emails and shopping were the most common online activities for more than two-thirds (69 per cent) of respondents who went online every day. More frequent web users were more likely to use a smartphone, while those logging on less often were more likely to use laptops.
Interestingly, those who used the internet every day reported similar levels of social isolation, which takes into consideration a person’s relationships, the number and diversity of the people they socialise with and how frequently, as people who never went online.
Close to nine in 10 (87 per cent) of adults in Great Britain used the internet daily or almost every day in 2019. While almost all adults aged between 16 and 44 went online every day or most days (99 per cent), this fell to 61 per cent among adults aged 65 years old or over, according to the Office for National Statistics.
The study, which was conducted before the Government introduced social-distancing measures or the nationwide lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19, was published in journal Ageing and Society.
Its findings suggest that older adults who use the internet less frequently may have a better handle on balancing interactions between their real-world and online contacts, with many too busy to go online every day, lead author Stephanie Stockwell, a PhD student at the Cambridge Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences at ARU, said.
Read More Daily Hope: Church of England launches free ‘dial-in’ service for elderly who can’t get online
“We were surprised that daily internet users recorded similar levels of social isolation as those who never use the internet,” she said.
“It might be that many of these people go online to combat their social isolation. Alternatively, going online more frequently might actually cause greater social isolation among some older adults as they reduce their physical contacts.”
An effective tool for reaching older people
While older people with internet access are likely to be going online much more often as a result of the social-distancing restrictions, the study’s findings indicate this is unlikely to improve levels of social isolation, she added.
Senior author Dr Lee Smith, reader in physical activity and public health at ARU, said one positive suggestion from the report is that internet advertising and targeted emails could be an effective, low-cost way of advising older internet users about physical activity or diet during the pandemic.


inews--2020-05-19--Coronavirus: lack of public toilets in lockdown and social distancing will change the way we use loo

Coronavirus: lack of public toilets in lockdown and social distancing will change the way we use loos

Coronavirus : lack of public toilets in lockdown and social distancing will change the way we use loos We can go out more — but there are fewer public loos to use than ever A public toilet is closed in Scarborough as the town remains quiet after some lockdown restrictions were eased on May 16 2020 ( Photo : Ian Forsyth/Getty ) The Government wants us to go outside and start buying again to bolster the free-falling economy .
But the question everyone is asking this week is : in that case where are we supposed to spend a penny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the weather sunny , newly legitimate “ pleasure ” visits to parks , beaches and beauty spots have skyrocketed .
Yet there ’ s absolutely nowhere to go to the loo .
The situation becomes almost comically stark when observing drinkers beginning to congregate outside an increasing number of “ takeaway ” pubs .
The obvious corollary : what happens after your second pint ?
Some conveniences are being slowly reopened in Margate , Brighton , Bournemouth , the Yorkshire Dales and National Trust car parks .
But with fewer than 4,500 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per cent fall from 20 years ago ) most people who need to go when they ’ re out usually head for pubs , stations or fast food joints – and all of those conveniences remain inconveniently shut .
The front line of the new normal is to found in the foliage .
Britain ’ s bushes are on the receiving end of an unwanted blitzkrieg from men – and women – caught short .
But the lack of formal facilities is unacceptable to many , particularly old people , those with children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is disabled or who has one of a range of medical conditions – essentially putting the outdoors off limits to millions .
Clearly it ’ s a concern to many : the Washington Post ’ s story about America ’ s closed bathrooms was the most read on its entire website yesterday .
A report from the University of Stirling on 6 May claimed that Covid-19 can persist in human waste 33 days after virus victims have tested negative .
Aside from this contamination puzzle , bathroom queues could also be problematic – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use the loo in a manner reminiscent of school rather than waiting in line .
In future , toilets might have to be redesigned entirely .
If you didn ’ t think loo design was already a big issue , flick through any copy of The Architectural Review – it seems to run on ads from plumbing suppliers .
Cleaners will also need to be properly protected in the interim .
Right now , the lack of loos is not problem number one , but it ’ s certainly problem number two .

The Government wants us to go outside and start buying again to bolster the free-falling economy. But the question everyone is asking this week is: in that case where are we supposed to spend a penny?
With England’s lockdown easing and the weather sunny, newly legitimate “pleasure” visits to parks, beaches and beauty spots have skyrocketed. Yet there’s absolutely nowhere to go to the loo. The situation becomes almost comically stark when observing drinkers beginning to congregate outside an increasing number of “takeaway” pubs. The obvious corollary: what happens after your second pint?
Some conveniences are being slowly reopened in Margate, Brighton, Bournemouth, the Yorkshire Dales and National Trust car parks. But with fewer than 4,500 public loos in Britain (a 30 per cent fall from 20 years ago) most people who need to go when they’re out usually head for pubs, stations or fast food joints – and all of those conveniences remain inconveniently shut.
The front line of the new normal is to found in the foliage. Britain’s bushes are on the receiving end of an unwanted blitzkrieg from men – and women – caught short. But the lack of formal facilities is unacceptable to many, particularly old people, those with children, parents of babies and anyone who is disabled or who has one of a range of medical conditions – essentially putting the outdoors off limits to millions. Clearly it’s a concern to many: the Washington Post’s story about America’s closed bathrooms was the most read on its entire website yesterday.
Brave loo world
A report from the University of Stirling on 6 May claimed that Covid-19 can persist in human waste 33 days after virus victims have tested negative. Aside from this contamination puzzle, bathroom queues could also be problematic – Ryanair passengers will have to ask to use the loo in a manner reminiscent of school rather than waiting in line.
In future, toilets might have to be redesigned entirely. If you didn’t think loo design was already a big issue, flick through any copy of The Architectural Review – it seems to run on ads from plumbing suppliers. Cleaners will also need to be properly protected in the interim.
Right now, the lack of loos is not problem number one, but it’s certainly problem number two.


inews--2020-05-19--Coronavirus latest: UK facing 'severe recession likes of which we have not seen', says Rishi Sunak

Coronavirus latest : UK facing 'severe recession likes of which we have not seen ' , says Rishi Sunak The Chancellor also raised grave doubts of an immediate bounceback for the economy and spoke of his fears of permanent “ scarring ” to the nation ’ s economic health .
His comments came as figures released revealed the number of benefit claims in April increased by 856,500 to nearly 2.1 million , during the first full month of the lockdown imposed in response to the Covid-19 outbreak .
The data , published by the Office for National Statistics , marks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ credit and jobseekers ’ allowance claims in just one month , the highest single month rise since records began in the early 1970s .
This is despite the Treasury paying the wages of around 10 million people , after officials revealed more than 8 million people had been furloughed by employers , and a further 2 million self-employed workers had accessed government support .
Fielding questions from the Lords ’ Economic Affairs Committee , Mr Sunak offered a gloomy outlook for the economy , warning it was unlikely there would be a “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further .
“ It is not obvious that there will be an immediate bounceback , it takes time for people to get back to the habits that they had , ” Mr Sunak told peers , adding that the economy is likely to see a huge downturn .
Universal Credit claims have surged in the Covid-19 outbreak ( Photo : Getty ) Due to the incremental approach to lifting the lockdown , consumers will not be able to return quickly to start driving growth , he added .
“ Obviously the impact will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We are likely to face a severe recession the likes of which we have never seen , and obviously that will have an impact on employment.
” The Chancellor also revealed the level of “ scarring ” to the economy is what “ most occupies my mind ” , as he admitted the “ jury is out ” in terms of what the health of the economy will be once the lockdown is eased .
The ONS figures also revealed the number of people made unemployed had risen by 50,000 in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March , but the statistics took in just one week of the Government-imposed lockdown .
The UK labour market entered the Covid-19 crisis in rude health , with unemployment rate of 3.9 per cent - the lowest it has been since 19764 .
The Office of Budget Responsibility has previously suggested unemployment could reach “ double digits ” in the wake of the pandemic .
Labour ’ s Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds said the unemployment figures were “ deeply worrying ” and warned they could worsen if the Government takes the “ wrong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its furlough scheme.Nye Cominetti , senior economist at the Resolution Foundation think tank , said : “ Today ’ s figures highlight the speed and scale of Britain ’ s job crisis .

The UK is facing a severe recession “the likes of which we have not seen” due to the Covid-19 crisis, Rishi Sunak warned, as the number of people claiming unemployment benefits soared by nearly 70 per cent.
The Chancellor also raised grave doubts of an immediate bounceback for the economy and spoke of his fears of permanent “scarring” to the nation’s economic health.
His comments came as figures released revealed the number of benefit claims in April increased by 856,500 to nearly 2.1 million, during the first full month of the lockdown imposed in response to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Record spike
The data, published by the Office for National Statistics, marks a 69 per cent rise in universal credit and jobseekers’ allowance claims in just one month, the highest single month rise since records began in the early 1970s.
This is despite the Treasury paying the wages of around 10 million people, after officials revealed more than 8 million people had been furloughed by employers, and a further 2 million self-employed workers had accessed government support.
Fielding questions from the Lords’ Economic Affairs Committee, Mr Sunak offered a gloomy outlook for the economy, warning it was unlikely there would be a “V-shaped” recovery once restrictions are eased further.
“It is not obvious that there will be an immediate bounceback, it takes time for people to get back to the habits that they had,” Mr Sunak told peers, adding that the economy is likely to see a huge downturn.
Due to the incremental approach to lifting the lockdown, consumers will not be able to return quickly to start driving growth, he added.
“Obviously the impact will be severe,” he said. “We are likely to face a severe recession the likes of which we have never seen, and obviously that will have an impact on employment.”
The Chancellor also revealed the level of “scarring” to the economy is what “most occupies my mind”, as he admitted the “jury is out” in terms of what the health of the economy will be once the lockdown is eased.
The ONS figures also revealed the number of people made unemployed had risen by 50,000 in the first three months of the year to March, but the statistics took in just one week of the Government-imposed lockdown.
It led Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey to warn people “should be prepared for the unemployment rate to increase significantly”.
Double digit unemployment
The UK labour market entered the Covid-19 crisis in rude health, with unemployment rate of 3.9 per cent – the lowest it has been since 19764. The Office of Budget Responsibility has previously suggested unemployment could reach “double digits” in the wake of the pandemic.
Labour’s Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds said the unemployment figures were “deeply worrying” and warned they could worsen if the Government takes the “wrong decisions” when it comes to changing its furlough scheme.
Nye Cominetti, senior economist at the Resolution Foundation think tank, said: “Today’s figures highlight the speed and scale of Britain’s job crisis.
“Even despite widespread furloughing, Britain could still be facing the highest unemployment levels it has had in over a quarter of the century.”


inews--2020-05-19--Coronavirus latest: Reopening schools before contact tracing in place will put people 'at risk', pub

Coronavirus latest: Reopening schools before contact tracing in place will put people 'at risk', public health officials warn

Coronavirus latest : Reopening schools before contact tracing in place will put people 'at risk ' , public health officials warn The warning came as a growing number of councils said they planned to defy the Government over its target date to reopen schools in England The warning came as a growing number of local authorities said they planned to defy the Government ’ s target to reopen schools in England on 1 June .
On Monday the Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed the Government had hired 21,000 people to work as contact tracers .
He promised a full test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the end of the month .
However , a target to have the programme up and running by the middle of May has already been missed .
Speaking to the BBC ’ s Today programme , Lisa McNally , director of public health for Sandwell Council , said : “ My view is that if we open up schools to more children before we have an effective contact tracing and testing system in place then we ’ re putting people at risk , we ’ re not doing everything we can to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teacher union has released a new 'checklist ' of conditions to be met before schools reopen - including that teachers should not have to do marking ( Photo : Peter Macdiarmid/Getty ) “ I think we need to have the test and trace system working before we start to fundamentally reopen society , because to not do so gives [ the ] virus unchecked opportunities to spread , ” he said .
“ That will lead us back to a place where we ’ ve been before and no one wants to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the north of England - where scientists believe the rate of infection is higher - have said they will not reopen schools on 1 June .
Solihull Council , believed to be one of the first Conservative-led councils to question the Government ’ s proposed start date , also warned that some school places may not be ready for the first week of June .
“ I don ’ t think they would say that they ’ re putting school opening above health risks .
What they ’ re doing is basing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A Department for Education spokesperson said : “ We want children back in schools as soon as possible because being with their teachers and friends is so important for their education and their wellbeing .
“ Plans for a cautious , phased return of some year groups from 1 June , at the earliest , are based on the best scientific and medical advice .
The welfare of children and staff has been at the heart of all decision making .
“ We have engaged closely with a range of relevant organisations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eight weeks , including organising for them to hear directly from the government ’ s scientific advisers last Friday , and will continue to do so .
We have also published detailed guidance on the protective measures schools should take to reduce the risk of transmission .
”

Reopening schools before a contact tracing regime is in place will put people “at risk” and give Covid-19 “unchecked opportunities to spread”, public officials have said.
The warning came as a growing number of local authorities said they planned to defy the Government’s target to reopen schools in England on 1 June.
On Monday the Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed the Government had hired 21,000 people to work as contact tracers. He promised a full test and trace programme would be rolled out by the end of the month.
However, a target to have the programme up and running by the middle of May has already been missed.
‘People at risk’
Concerns have also been raised about the training of staff and the readiness of the Government’s contact-tracing app.
A number of public health officials have said schools should not be reopened until the scheme is in place.
Speaking to the BBC’s Today programme, Lisa McNally, director of public health for Sandwell Council, said: “My view is that if we open up schools to more children before we have an effective contact tracing and testing system in place then we’re putting people at risk, we’re not doing everything we can to protect people.”
‘Opportunities to spread’
Her view was echoed by Greg Fell, director of public health for Sheffield City Council.
“I think we need to have the test and trace system working before we start to fundamentally reopen society, because to not do so gives [the] virus unchecked opportunities to spread,” he said.
“That will lead us back to a place where we’ve been before and no one wants to go back there.”
Council defiance
A number of councils in the north of England – where scientists believe the rate of infection is higher – have said they will not reopen schools on 1 June.
On Tuesday Calderdale Council in West Yorkshire followed Wirral, Bury, Hartlepool and Liverpool in advising schools against a wider reopening from that date.
Solihull Council, believed to be one of the first Conservative-led councils to question the Government’s proposed start date, also warned that some school places may not be ready for the first week of June.
Blair support
However, the Government was supported in its stance by Tony Blair.
The former Labour prime minister told Newsnight: “They’re right, I think, to be reopening the schools.”
“I don’t think they would say that they’re putting school opening above health risks. What they’re doing is basing it on the evidence, actually.
“There are countries that have reopened parts, at least, of their school system.”
A Department for Education spokesperson said: “We want children back in schools as soon as possible because being with their teachers and friends is so important for their education and their wellbeing.
“Plans for a cautious, phased return of some year groups from 1 June, at the earliest, are based on the best scientific and medical advice. The welfare of children and staff has been at the heart of all decision making.
“We have engaged closely with a range of relevant organisations, including the unions, throughout the past eight weeks, including organising for them to hear directly from the government’s scientific advisers last Friday, and will continue to do so. We have also published detailed guidance on the protective measures schools should take to reduce the risk of transmission.”