inews--2020-04-17--The 30 best free online courses for coronavirus lockdown, from Joe Wicks workouts to history of art

The 30 best free online courses for coronavirus lockdown, from Joe Wicks workouts to history of art courses

The 30 best free online courses for coronavirus lockdown , from Joe Wicks workouts to history of art courses From yoga classes to language courses and business and career development , there is a wealth of free online courses Photo : All the instructors at Psycle London have gone online Boutique fitness brand Psycle usually runs class-based work-outs in its London studios .
In response to lockdown , its instructors have gone online to offer free live and on-demand work-outs you can do at home , based on the four principles at the core of the company ’ s fitness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work and yoga .
Follow Psycle on Instagram for advance posts of what classes are coming up , then tune in for live work-outs .
You can also work out when you want with on-demand classes on its IGTV channel .
Or try the new Psycle London YouTube channel .
Find a good range of strength , barre and yoga-based work-outs , including “ Glide & Sculpt ” , “ Yoga Revival 45 ” and “ Fit in 30 ( Upper Body ) ” .
The American yogawear brand Alo Yoga was started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who had the idea to create a brand that inspires a yoga way of life on the mat and beyond .
That ambition fuelled a YouTube channel that started with yogis leading practices filmed in Alo Yoga ’ s flagship stores , for anyone to follow , anywhere in the world .
Today , the channel has hundreds of videos , covering everything from energising morning flows to arm balances , handstands to power vinyasa flows and multi-day challenges such as “ 7 Days of Gratitude ” , which includes detoxifying , heart-opening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vincent , author of the recent hit memoir Rootbound : Rewilding a Life , takes you through a video course that breaks down the basics of indoor plant care .
The team at Patch has gathered tips and advice from experts and condensed everything into 16 bitesize videos – the average run time is two minutes .
Learn how to pick the right plant , water it correctly , clean its leaves and understand why leaves fall off , then step up the skill level with tips on repotting , growing from cuttings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bake your own bread ( Photo : STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN/AFP via Getty Images ) Everything you need to ease your way into playing guitar .
As well as the free online beginner ’ s course , creator Justin Sandercoe has included a guide to guitar-buying .
The beginner ’ s course is for those learning on acoustic or electric guitars and will get you to the point where ( with the right amount of practice ) you can sit your Grade 1 exam .
The course is divided into seven modules .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with direction on what you should practise and for how long .
Choose the best fish in Norway ( Photo : Bergen Reiselivslag / Robin Strand ) Goldman Sachs has evolved its “ 10,000 Women ” programme , making it open to all and offered free through Coursera .
The course was launched to train and empower women in developing countries and since 2008 it has helped thousands of women-led businesses from more than 50 countries grow through access to education , networking and capital .
Now any female entrepreneur can enrol on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a practical , flexible , world-class business education .
Those who complete the course will be eligible to become members of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women Alumni Community – a network of talented female entrepreneurs that hosts events and offers additional training and fellowship schemes .
You could be the next big Influencer .
( Photo by Rachel Murray/Getty Images for Vanity Fair ) Learn how to work and communicate with others effectively as more of us work remotely and the modern workplace becomes more fluid and agile .
The programme takes six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each of three courses , with a recommended two hours of study for each .
Course one covers collaborative working in a remote team , course two is communication and interpersonal skills at work and course three is presenting your work with impact .
This course is designed as an introduction to computer programming for anyone and everyone – disguising the logic of code with the fun of gaming .
The infectious spirit of the instructors will get you over any tech-induced anxiety and make this extra-engaging .
It takes five weeks and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four hours to each week ( absolute beginners may take a bit more time ) .
You will learn you basic Java programming while developing a mobile game you can run on your computer , Android phone or tablet .

Fitness
The Bodycoach TV
Good for: everybody
Find it: youtube.com/thebodycoach1
Fitness coach Joe Wicks has been christened “the nation’s PE teacher” during lockdown – and his 30-minute 9am classes have brought an army of new fans to his YouTube channel, The Bodycoach TV, which now has 2.2 million subscribers. There are more than 250 work-outs to choose from for every level, including a 10-minute work-out for seniors. Playlists range from “7 Days of Sweat” to “Leg Day Workouts” and “15 Minute Fat Burners”.
Psycle
Good for: gym lovers who like to mix it up
Find it: @psyclelondon on Instagram, YouTube
Boutique fitness brand Psycle usually runs class-based work-outs in its London studios. In response to lockdown, its instructors have gone online to offer free live and on-demand work-outs you can do at home, based on the four principles at the core of the company’s fitness approach: cycling, barre, strength work and yoga. Follow Psycle on Instagram for advance posts of what classes are coming up, then tune in for live work-outs. You can also work out when you want with on-demand classes on its IGTV channel. Or try the new Psycle London YouTube channel. Find a good range of strength, barre and yoga-based work-outs, including “Glide & Sculpt”, “Yoga Revival 45” and “Fit in 30 (Upper Body)”.
Frame
Good for: fun-loving fitness fanatics
Find it: online.moveyourframe.com
“Endorphins on demand” is how Frame describes its energy-fizzing collection of work-outs, which fall into three categories: sweat, party and sculpt. This part of the Frame site was rushed out to help with the new situation, so it is a little less than slick. But that doesn’t detract from the work-outs.
Train with GCN
Good for: road cyclists enthusiasts with indoor training bikes
Find it: YouTube
More than two million enthusiasts subscribe to Global Cycle Network (GCN) on YouTube. Craft an indoor training programme from the 49 videos available to build strength, endurance and speed. Work-outs include interval training, fat-burning, HIIT and endurance.
Take a GCN spin class
Good for: spin fans
Find it: YouTube
The Peloton spin fitness system is having a moment, but its costs are monumental. This free alternative from GCN puts you in the saddle for an intense, hour-long turbo trainer class that builds through an eight-minute warm-up to a series of eight endurance-shredding intervals. For a shorter session, try GCN’s “Burn Fat Fast: 20 Minute Bike Workout”.
Go to the barre
Good for: barre fans
Find it: barreworks.co.uk/online-workouts
Richmond-based Barreworks has created a series of ballet barre-based work-outs to follow at home. Find beginner, intermediate and advanced sessions, as well as a 30-minute “Cardio Express”, “Arms & Abs” and “Thighs & Seat” work-outs on its site for free. If you want to take it further, there is a 10-week programme for a fee.
Join Kathryn Morgan’s ballet troupe
Good for: ballet aficionados
Find it: YouTube
According to bestpointe.com, Kathryn Morgan’s channel is the best one-stop ballet destination, with more than 300 videos that include tips, full barre classes, techniques, work-outs and more. Morgan is a soloist with Miami City Ballet. There are beginner pointe classes, strength and stretch work-outs, rehearsal and performance warm-up sessions, as well as intermediate/advanced classes.
Dance to the beat
Good for: anyone who loves to dance
Find it: danceplug.com/classes
DancePlug has a community feel. It was created to connect a global network of dancers and the site is a mix of classes and choreography. The online dance page has a filter for free classes where you can find routines and steps covering contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, Bollywood, tap and more. There is a bar icon that shows the skill level, and a video icon that links through to the lesson breakdown. For routines, there is a full preview, slow breakdown of steps with count and a mirror view with count.
Wellbeing
Alo Yoga 7 Days of Gratitude
Good for: happy yogis
Find it: YouTube
The American yogawear brand Alo Yoga was started by best friends Danny and Marco, who had the idea to create a brand that inspires a yoga way of life on the mat and beyond. That ambition fuelled a YouTube channel that started with yogis leading practices filmed in Alo Yoga’s flagship stores, for anyone to follow, anywhere in the world. Today, the channel has hundreds of videos, covering everything from energising morning flows to arm balances, handstands to power vinyasa flows and multi-day challenges such as “7 Days of Gratitude”, which includes detoxifying, heart-opening, energising and restorative flows.
Home – A 30 Day Yoga Journey
Good for: yoga lovers
Find it: YouTube
Adriene Mishler runs a 30-day challenge each January that remains available to users and subscribers to her YouTube channel, Yoga With Adriene. The programme starts with day zero, a six-minute orientation video where Adriene shares tips to prepare you for the 30-day yoga journey ahead. Elsewhere on the channel, you can filter practices by length of time and types – yoga for beginners, yoga for back pain, yoga for weight loss and more.
Demystifying mindfulness
Good for: any scientifically driven mindfulness sceptics
Find it: futurelearn.com/courses/de-mystifying-mindfulness
Those who advocate the merits of mindfulness swear by its ability to create a feeling of mental wellness. If you feel interested but also a little sceptical, this course will unpick the science of mindfulness and draw on psychology and philosophy to explain how and why it works.
Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance
Good for: anyone with a scattered mind striving to live in the moment
Find it: futurelearn.com/courses/mindfulness-wellbeing-performance
This four-week course teaches mindfulness techniques aimed at boosting wellbeing. It will teach you to identify causes of stress in your life, develop a range of techniques that are effective for you and keep a personal journal so you can reflect on your experiences.
Life skills
Houseplant Parenting Course
Good for the tentative green-fingered
Find it: patchplants.com/gb/en/care/indoor-plant-care/
Alice Vincent, author of the recent hit memoir Rootbound: Rewilding a Life, takes you through a video course that breaks down the basics of indoor plant care. The team at Patch has gathered tips and advice from experts and condensed everything into 16 bitesize videos – the average run time is two minutes. Learn how to pick the right plant, water it correctly, clean its leaves and understand why leaves fall off, then step up the skill level with tips on repotting, growing from cuttings and making natural pesticides.
Bake bread
Good for: beginner bakers
Find it: skillshare.com/browse/bread
Skillshare is a vibrant online learning community where creators and makers share their knowhow. Get started with a 28-minute class on “The One Yeast Dough You Need To Know”, taught by acclaimed cook Julia Turshen.
Online Barista Training
Good for: coffee connoisseurs
Find it: YouTube
This series of videos may be five years old, but there is a rich harvest of knowhow and skill to learn from this collection created by the American Barista & Coffee School. For the most comprehensive training, follow the playlist of 21 videos created by Cody Lorance. Learn how to use an espresso machine, store coffee, steam milk, clean tools and create latte art.
Sharpen your digital photo skills
Good for: photo enthusiasts
Find it: alison.com/courses?&category=photography
Sign up to Alison.com’s Introduction to Digital Photography course and learn what all the buttons on your digital camera do, different styles of photography to help you decide the form you enjoy most (landscape, street, portrait), types of image files and more.
JustinGuitar Beginner Guitar Lessons (Grade 1)
Good for: guitar novices
Find it: justinguitar.com/categories/beginner-guitar-lessons-grade-1
Everything you need to ease your way into playing guitar. As well as the free online beginner’s course, creator Justin Sandercoe has included a guide to guitar-buying. The beginner’s course is for those learning on acoustic or electric guitars and will get you to the point where (with the right amount of practice) you can sit your Grade 1 exam. The course is divided into seven modules. These are structured like one-to-one private lessons, with direction on what you should practise and for how long.
Beginners’ Spanish: Food and Drink
Good for: anyone who wants to start speaking Spanish
Find it: open.edu/openlearn
This site has a few beginner courses that will build your Spanish language skills, but this one is great for kickstarting your journey, as it is a bitesize six hours. It also focuses on teaching you practical language skills around buying and ordering food and drink, as well as basic culinary-related vocabulary.
Introduction to Chinese: Conversation
Good for: language enthusiasts
Find it: futurelearn.com/courses/chinese-conversation
By the end of this interactive course, you will be able to hold basic conversations in Chinese Mandarin, know how to greet people and carry out basic tasks such as asking for directions and ordering meals. The course lasts six weeks, given an average of two hours’ study a week.
Norwegian for Beginners 1
Good for: Scandi fans
Find it: futurelearn.com/courses/norwegian-for-beginners
This introduction to Norwegian stretches over four weeks (average study time per week is five hours). By the end, you will be able to introduce yourself, say where you live, and ask for directions and the time. You will also learn about life in the country itself.
Beginners’ French: A Trip to Avignon
Good for: Francophiles
Find it: open.edu/openlearn
The aim of this 15-hour course is to equip you to navigate your way confidently around a French town. Learn how to book a hotel, ask for information about the local area and arrange a rendezvous.
Creativity
Great artists and their works
Good for: anyone who wants to build their knowledge of art history
Find it: alison.com/course/great-artists-and-their-works
This nine-module course in art history will give you a comprehensive overview of the life and works of greats such as Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Manet and Caravaggio.
Creative writing
Good for: anyone writing for a living or hoping to start
Find it: skillshare.com
Words power everything from Insta posts to poetry, scripts to traditional fiction. Custom-curate a mix of lessons on Skillshare to suit your needs. Here are some highlights: “The Creative Writer’s Toolkit: Writing a Character Study”, “Beginners Creative Writing Class (Short Story)”, “Develop Your Authorial Voice”, “Writing for Online Engagement: Fiction in a Digital World” and “Simply Journaling”.
Understanding fashion: from business to culture
Good for: anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the fashion industry
Find it: futurelearn.com/courses/understanding-fashion-from-business-to-culture
Developed by Institut Français de la Mode and taught by one of the college’s professors, this four-week course explores fashion’s impact on culture and society and the way it influences consumer behaviour. Pick up nuggets from leading designers such as Sir Paul Smith and Christelle Kocher, and the CEOs of Chanel, YSL and Hermès.
Career Boost
10,000 Women
Good for: female entrepreneurs
Find it: coursera.org/launch/10000women
Goldman Sachs has evolved its “10,000 Women” programme, making it open to all and offered free through Coursera. The course was launched to train and empower women in developing countries and since 2008 it has helped thousands of women-led businesses from more than 50 countries grow through access to education, networking and capital. Now any female entrepreneur can enrol on this collection of 10 courses which provide a practical, flexible, world-class business education. Those who complete the course will be eligible to become members of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women Alumni Community – a network of talented female entrepreneurs that hosts events and offers additional training and fellowship schemes.
Thriving in the Digital Workplace
Good for: anyone working in a field where digital plays a role
Find it: futurelearn.com/programs/thriving-in-the-digital-workplace
This six-week course is designed to help you identify transferable skills and learn key digital skills as well as how to build professional networks. The course splits into three parts. Even without the cloud of change currently hanging over work, equipping yourself with tools to future-proof your career and put some control over how it develops back in your hands is invaluable.
Making a business of Social
Good for: future Influencers
Find it: skillshare.com
Scroll right to the bottom of the skillshare.com landing page to the sitemap details. Under the Community menu, click on Free Classes to open up the full menu of no-charge classes available on this melting pot of shared creative inspiration. From that menu, you can pick and mix a course to help get you started as the next big influencer. Or try this curated list we’ve put together: “Introduction to SEO: Tactics and Strategy for Entrepreneurs”, “SEO Today: Strategies to Earn Trust, Rank High, and Stand Out”, “Introduction to Social Media Advertising Learning with Buffer”, “How to Make a Podcast: Plan, Record, and Launch with Success” and “How to Vlog – Complete Beginners Guide; and Blogging Basics”.
Collaboration, Communication and Remote Working
Good for: anyone inspired to lead the drive towards remote, collaborative work practices
Find it: futurelearn.com/programs/collaboration-communication-and-remote-working
Learn how to work and communicate with others effectively as more of us work remotely and the modern workplace becomes more fluid and agile. The programme takes six weeks in total – two weeks for each of three courses, with a recommended two hours of study for each. Course one covers collaborative working in a remote team, course two is communication and interpersonal skills at work and course three is presenting your work with impact.
Begin programming: build your first mobile game
Good for: anyone willing to let their inner geek out to play
Find it: futurelearn.com/courses/begin-programming
This course is designed as an introduction to computer programming for anyone and everyone – disguising the logic of code with the fun of gaming. The infectious spirit of the instructors will get you over any tech-induced anxiety and make this extra-engaging. It takes five weeks and students need to devote an average of four hours to each week (absolute beginners may take a bit more time). You will learn you basic Java programming while developing a mobile game you can run on your computer, Android phone or tablet.
Wild Card
Forensic Psychology: Witness Investigation
Good for: armchair sleuths
Find it: futurelearn.com/courses/forensic-psychology
This gripping eight-week course looks at how forensic psychology helps to unpick evidence from eyewitnesses and prevents cases of injustice. Course participants use witness statements to try to solve a fictitious crime.


inews--2020-04-17--Virtual Parliament explained: how MPs will work during the UK coronavirus lockdown - and when they r

Virtual Parliament explained: how MPs will work during the UK coronavirus lockdown - and when they return

Virtual Parliament explained : how MPs will work during the UK coronavirus lockdown - and when they return Plans for a trial 'hybrid ' Parliament have been announced which will allow some MPs to phone in during proceedings MPs are preparing to return to Westminster after the Easter recess but , with the country still in coronavirus lockdown , they will be coming back to a new-look virtual Parliament .
Plans for a `` hybrid '' House have been drawn up by the House of Commons Commission to try and keep Parliament running as much as possible through the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be approved by MPs when they return from Easter recess on Tuesday .
The new model was developed over the last few weeks and has been described as `` an achievable first step towards a virtual Parliament '' given current technological challenges in Westminster .
Parliament will resume in virtual format from next week Around 50 MPs will still be allowed to enter the chamber and an additional 120 will be able to take part in Commons proceedings virtually .
Those who will physically be in the Commons chamber will have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most will be encouraged to work from home .
To make it easier for MPs to work virtually , the Commons authorities said any MP in the Chamber will be treated the same as one appearing virtually and would only be called to speak if listed .
How will it work ?
If approved , from the 22 April some - but not all - MPs will be able to take part in Prime Minister ’ s Questions , urgent questions , and statements via video link for the first two hours of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ placed around the chamber to allow those in the Commons to see their colleagues from their usual benches .
If an MP can not be heard or seen for technological reasons , they can been called later in the proceedings to try and speak again .
There will be no opportunity for interventions or points of order should during the two hours of hybrid proceedings .
What about the rest of Commons procedures ?
The authorities have been clear that these measures are part of an initial plan to help Parliament continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circumstances .
But if the system works , it could be extended so that MPs can take part in debates on motions and legislation from home .
The House will have the power to amend or extend the use of technology in the House .
Currently MPs must still attend the house in person if they are voting on any legislation and will only be able to take part virtually for a portion of proceedings .
Members of the House of Lords will be able to take part in some proceedings virtually ( @ @ @ @

MPs are preparing to return to Westminster after the Easter recess but, with the country still in coronavirus lockdown, they will be coming back to a new-look virtual Parliament.
Plans for a “hybrid” House have been drawn up by the House of Commons Commission to try and keep Parliament running as much as possible through the coronavirus outbreak.
But the measures will need to be approved by MPs when they return from Easter recess on Tuesday.
First steps to virtual Parliament
The new model was developed over the last few weeks and has been described as “an achievable first step towards a virtual Parliament” given current technological challenges in Westminster.
The Commons authorities drew up plans to permit MPs to grill ministers via virtual meetings – using Zoom – for the first time in British history.
Around 50 MPs will still be allowed to enter the chamber and an additional 120 will be able to take part in Commons proceedings virtually.
Those who will physically be in the Commons chamber will have to adhere by strict social distancing rules and most will be encouraged to work from home.
To make it easier for MPs to work virtually, the Commons authorities said any MP in the Chamber will be treated the same as one appearing virtually and would only be called to speak if listed.
How will it work?
If approved, from the 22 April some – but not all – MPs will be able to take part in Prime Minister’s Questions, urgent questions, and statements via video link for the first two hours of each sitting day.
Screens will be placed around the chamber to allow those in the Commons to see their colleagues from their usual benches.
Here are some of the key points of the new virtual proposals for the House of Commons: pic.twitter.com/myh0pR4KXg — UK House of Commons (@HouseofCommons) April 16, 2020
Members have been instructed avoid drawing attention to any objects whilst appearing on a screen, to prevent any from not being treated equally.
If an MP cannot be heard or seen for technological reasons, they can been called later in the proceedings to try and speak again.
There will be no opportunity for interventions or points of order should during the two hours of hybrid proceedings.
What about the rest of Commons procedures?
The authorities have been clear that these measures are part of an initial plan to help Parliament continue to run within the limitations of the current circumstances.
But if the system works, it could be extended so that MPs can take part in debates on motions and legislation from home.
The House will have the power to amend or extend the use of technology in the House.
Currently MPs must still attend the house in person if they are voting on any legislation and will only be able to take part virtually for a portion of proceedings.
A similar system has already been used for some select committee meetings, which have turned virtual with most participants dialling in.
House of Lords
The House of Lords will also be going partially virtual, with virtual Oral Questions, Private Notice Questions, Statements and non-legislative debates held online from next week.
Members will use online Microsoft platforms to ask questions of Ministers and contribute to non-legislative debates.
But debates on legislation will initially continue to be held in the Chamber with an expectation of limited participation.
This is because peers myst be physically present to take part in any decision making in the house.


inews--2020-04-17--What time is the UK coronavirus speech today? Alok Sharma set to stand in for Boris Johnson - here's

What time is the UK coronavirus speech today? Alok Sharma set to stand in for Boris Johnson - here's how to watch live

Yesterday First Secretary of State Dominic Raab announced a three week extension of the UK 's lockdown measures .
He @ @ @ @ @ to our social distancing measures now could contribute to a significant increase in the spread @ @ @ @ @ He warned that an earlier relaxation would do more damage to the economy than good @ @ @ @ @ in some form of lockdown continuing for a longer period .

The coronavirus briefing, so much a part of the UK lockdown, has only been airing intermittently in the past few weeks.
Today, Boris Johnson will give the latest update, in which he is expected to announce further easing of lockdown measures and new funding for the NHS.
The Prime Minister chaired the final daily press conference on Monday 30 June after those announcing eagerly-anticipated changes to coronavirus lockdown rules coming on 4 July in a lunchtime address to the House of Commons.
Daily coronavirus briefings, which came to an end after that, were introduced in response to calls for improved communication from the government on their plan to tackle the spread of Covid-19, and give the nation the latest updates on the pandemic.
When do the daily press briefings take place?
Rather than its familiar 5pm slot, today’s Downing Street briefing is expected begin earlier, at around 11.00am.
In general the press conferences took place between 4pm and 6pm, with the majority of the daily meetings tending to start just after 5pm on weekdays and at 2.30pm on weekends.
A number 10 spokesperson said that they would like to “see [the briefings held at] a consistent time.”
There were, of course, a few notable exceptions, such as when it was forced to a later time slot after the Prime Minister’s key adviser Dominic Cummings gave a rare public statement regarding him travelling from London to Durham during lockdown.
Who will appear at today’s press conference?
It has not been confirmed who will join Mr Johnson for today’s conference – or indeed if he will appear alone as became increasingly the norm in the briefing’s latter weeks.
As well as the the Prime Minister and the Health Secretary Matt Hancock, various other cabinet ministers stepped up in recent weeks, including Rishi Sunak, Alok Sharma, Grant Shapps and Michael Gove.
The Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty and the Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance also became regular fixtures during the briefings, while the Head of NHS England Simon Stevens has made numerous appearances.
Where can I watch the press briefings?
The press briefings will be available to watch live on BBC News.
You can watch online through BBC iPlayer here, while Sky News has a live YouTube stream here.


inews--2020-04-17--What the Black Death can teach us about Covid-19: that society will survive

What the Black Death can teach us about Covid-19 : that society will survive People like looking after each other , and although it might not seem like it , catastrophes often create better societies Over the past few weeks , the present situation has been compared to everything from the Blitz to the Spanish flu .
And , inevitably , people have been comparing it to the greatest pandemic – indeed , the greatest human tragedy – in historical memory : the Black Death .
Its outbreak in 1348-49 is one of my specialist subjects , as it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ novel , All Fall Down .
I should emphasise for the anxious that the Black Death was , in many ways , nothing at all like Covid-19 .
It was far , far more deadly – although we don ’ t have exact figures , the mortality rate is believed to have been around 80 to 100 per cent , depending on whether one contracted bubonic , pneumatic or septicaemic plague .
In its first wave , it is believed to have killed around 45 per cent of Europe ’ s population .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ deadly or infectious as that .
We really aren ’ t .
Between 1300 and 1400 , the population of Europe halved .
The scale of the tragedy is almost unimaginable .
So why am I writing this ?
Because although this time the scale is much smaller , people are more or less the same now as they were during the Black Death outbreak : they knew about the pestilence months before it landed on their shores , and with depressing predictability they thought it wouldn ’ t affect them .
Christian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the English and Welsh thought the Channel would protect them and the Scots thought their relative underpopulation would prevent the disease from spreading .
All were wrong .
Society is really good at surviving What else ?
Well , for one thing , society survives .
Society is really good at surviving .
Despite the sort of casualty figures that belong in a zombie film , supply chains worked .
Institutions continued .
Church registers were filled with neat lists of the dead .
And although whole industries and professions collapsed , other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( In 1348 , this was mostly gravedigging and nursing , rather than Amazon and Ocado , but the point still stands . )
To someone raised on the sort of novels where looting starts happening within a couple of days , this was a welcome realisation .
We like looking after each other .
We ’ re good it .
We ’ re also good at adapting .
The past few weeks have been hard for my industry – with Gardners , a wholesaler which supplies physical copies of books to bookshops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t know what exactly this will mean for bookshops , publishers and authors , but it won ’ t be good .
It is hard not to despair .
There is reason to hope But there is reason to hope .
Catastrophes often create better societies .
Not always .
But often .
The church swallowed 10 per cent of the medieval economy before the Black Death , in the form of tithes .
Afterwards , the church ’ s power was weakened .
Similarly the feudal system , which had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collapsed .
Women suddenly gained access to professions previously closed to them , such as baking and blacksmithing , because there was simply no one else to do the work .
A village could not survive without someone working the oven .
This meant greater opportunities for everyone .
A similar shift happened after the First and Second World Wars , both of which resulted in a more equal Britain , with greater freedom and life chances for women and those at the bottom of the heap .
We do n't know what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different Will Covid-19 drive similar changes ?
It ’ s too early to say , but I think it will almost certainly bring greater investment in the NHS , and in the care sector in general .
The Conservatives ’ manifesto promise not to raise taxes is now looking very unlikely .
Beyond that , I don ’ t know .
The society we walk out into at the end of all of this will almost certainly surprise us .
But it will still be there .
It will still work .
I @ @ @ @ @

Over the past few weeks, the present situation has been compared to everything from the Blitz to the Spanish flu. And, inevitably, people have been comparing it to the greatest pandemic – indeed, the greatest human tragedy – in historical memory: the Black Death.
Its outbreak in 1348-49 is one of my specialist subjects, as it’s the setting for my young adult novel, All Fall Down. I should emphasise for the anxious that the Black Death was, in many ways, nothing at all like Covid-19. It was far, far more deadly – although we don’t have exact figures, the mortality rate is believed to have been around 80 to 100 per cent, depending on whether one contracted bubonic, pneumatic or septicaemic plague.
In its first wave, it is believed to have killed around 45 per cent of Europe’s population. We are not facing anything nearly as deadly or infectious as that. We really aren’t.
Between 1300 and 1400, the population of Europe halved. The scale of the tragedy is almost unimaginable. So why am I writing this? Because although this time the scale is much smaller, people are more or less the same now as they were during the Black Death outbreak: they knew about the pestilence months before it landed on their shores, and with depressing predictability they thought it wouldn’t affect them. Christian countries thought God would save them, the English and Welsh thought the Channel would protect them and the Scots thought their relative underpopulation would prevent the disease from spreading. All were wrong.
Society is really good at surviving
What else? Well, for one thing, society survives. Society is really good at surviving. Despite the sort of casualty figures that belong in a zombie film, supply chains worked. Institutions continued. Church registers were filled with neat lists of the dead. And although whole industries and professions collapsed, other work appeared to take its place. (In 1348, this was mostly gravedigging and nursing, rather than Amazon and Ocado, but the point still stands.)
To someone raised on the sort of novels where looting starts happening within a couple of days, this was a welcome realisation. We like looking after each other. We’re good it. We’re also good at adapting.
The past few weeks have been hard for my industry – with Gardners, a wholesaler which supplies physical copies of books to bookshops, having suspended its service. I don’t know what exactly this will mean for bookshops, publishers and authors, but it won’t be good. It is hard not to despair.
There is reason to hope
But there is reason to hope. Catastrophes often create better societies. Not always. But often. The church swallowed 10 per cent of the medieval economy before the Black Death, in the form of tithes. Afterwards, the church’s power was weakened. Similarly the feudal system, which had kept serfs in servitude for centuries, collapsed. Women suddenly gained access to professions previously closed to them, such as baking and blacksmithing, because there was simply no one else to do the work. A village could not survive without someone working the oven. This meant greater opportunities for everyone.
A similar shift happened after the First and Second World Wars, both of which resulted in a more equal Britain, with greater freedom and life chances for women and those at the bottom of the heap.
We don’t know what will change, but things will be different
Will Covid-19 drive similar changes? It’s too early to say, but I think it will almost certainly bring greater investment in the NHS, and in the care sector in general. The Conservatives’ manifesto promise not to raise taxes is now looking very unlikely.
Beyond that, I don’t know. The society we walk out into at the end of all of this will almost certainly surprise us. But it will still be there. It will still work. I can promise you that.
All Fall Down by Sally Nicholls (£7.99, Andersen Press) is also available as an e-book


inews--2020-04-17--Question Time: Germany's Covid-19 death rate is lower because it carries out more tests than the UK,

Question Time: Germany's Covid-19 death rate is lower because it carries out more tests than the UK, says Justice Secretary Robert Buckland

Question Time : Germany 's Covid-19 death rate is lower because it carries out more tests than the UK , says Justice Secretary Robert Buckland 'If we were testing much more widely then we might have a different set of statistics ' , the Justice Secretary said on the programme 'Their rate of testing has been much , much higher' Robert Buckland says that Germany 's death rate is lower as it tests more people .
( Photo : BBC ) '' I think we 're starting from much further back in the field than they are , to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lower , because of course , their rate of testing has been much , much higher . ''
`` If we were testing much more widely then we might have a different set of statistics .
I think it 's very difficult sometimes to make those comparisons .
What we are doing though , is of course working to ramp it up . ''
' I 'm explaining why the German death rate is as it is' A nurse takes a swab at a Covid-19 drive-through testing station for NHS staff in Chessington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think it 's it 's a very invidious task for anybody at the moment in the middle of this to start making direct international comparisons because we all came at this at different times .
`` There 's no doubt we can learn a lot from other countries and we 're watching very carefully what actions and steps are being taken across Europe , no doubt about that .
But ultimately , the particular solution the particular approach will have to be tailored very much to domestic need and what we 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A ventilator is pictured during an instruction of doctors at the Universitaetsklinikum Eppendorf in Hamburg ( Photo by Axel Heimken / POOL / AFP ) ( Photo by AXEL HEIMKEN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images )

Germany’s death rate from Covid-19 is lower than the UK’s because it is testing more widely Justice Secretary Robert Buckland has said.
Speaking on Question Time on Thursday night, he said the UK has a “different set of statistics” than if it tested at a similar rate as Germany, whose statistics include more people with mild cases of Covid-19.
The means Germany’s death rate appears better than the UK’s, Mr Buckland argued.
The UK has faced severe criticism for its low levels of testing compared with other European countries and has set a target of 100,000 a day by the end of the month.
‘Their rate of testing has been much, much higher’
The minister said: “Germany has a particular advantage in that their diagnostics industry is much bigger than our and we’re starting from a much lower base.
“I think we’re starting from much further back in the field than they are, to be frank, and their death rate is lower, because of course, their rate of testing has been much, much higher.”
“If we were testing much more widely then we might have a different set of statistics. I think it’s very difficult sometimes to make those comparisons. What we are doing though, is of course working to ramp it up.”
He added: “We’ve got that partnership between the public and private sector now we’re up to 28,000 test capacity a day.”
‘I’m explaining why the German death rate is as it is’
When host Fiona Bruce asked him if he meant that overall deaths in the UK are higher due to a lack of testing he said: “I’m explaining why the German death rate is as it is.
“I think it’s it’s a very invidious task for anybody at the moment in the middle of this to start making direct international comparisons because we all came at this at different times.
“We’ve all taken slightly different approaches, and therefore sometimes you’re comparing apples with pears.
“There’s no doubt we can learn a lot from other countries and we’re watching very carefully what actions and steps are being taken across Europe, no doubt about that. But ultimately, the particular solution the particular approach will have to be tailored very much to domestic need and what we’re facing here in the UK.”
Germany’s cases
Germany’s fatalities due to Covid-19 have remained remarkably low, compared with other European countries. The country has had 137,698 confirmed cases but just 4,052 deaths. The UK has had 103,093 and 13,729 deaths.
Italy, one of the European countries, worst affected by the virus has had 168,941 cases and 22,170 deaths, according to the latest figures.
While the better case to fatality ratio can be explained in part by wider testing in Germany including of those with only mild symptoms, when other countries often only test those severely affected the virus, demographic, administrative, and health infrastructure factors may also be playing a role.
The country has one of the highest amounts of critical care beds in Europe and those contracting the virus have generally been younger meaning their chances of survival are greater. More testing also means people are more aware of when to self-isolate to avoid spreading the virus.


inews--2020-04-17--When can I travel to Thailand? Latest guidance from FCO as UK extends lockdown

When can I travel to Thailand ?
Latest guidance from FCO as UK extends lockdown The FCO is advising “ British nationals against all but essential international travel .
Any country or area may restrict travel without notice .
If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad , you are strongly advised to return now , where and while there are still commercial routes available .
Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing , preventing flights from leaving.
” Transport Secretary , Grant Shapps , has explained that at present , he would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to BBC Radio 4 's Today programme , Mr Shapps said that `` clearly people will want to see what the trajectory of this disease is in the next few weeks '' .
An Emergency Decree is also currently in force in Thailand .
All foreign nationals are barred from entering or transiting Thailand except in certain limited circumstances .
If you do not meet these criteria you should not try to enter or transit Thailand .
There are also increasing restrictions on travel within Thailand , which includes the possibility of airport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A nationwide curfew is in effect between 10pm and 4am each day , although with limited exceptions including travel to and from airports .
-Pattani-Yala-Narathiwat-Southern Songkhla province .
This does not include areas north of and including the A43 road between -Hat Yai and Sakom , and areas north-west of and including the train line which runs between Hat Yai and Pedang Besar.
” What is the coronavirus ?
These are the symptoms of coronavirus ( Photo WHO ) COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is spread primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes , or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose .
- a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back ( you do not need to measure your temperature ) •-a new , continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour , or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours ( if you usually have a cough , it may be worse than usual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GP but instead look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next .
Only call 111 if you can not get help online .
Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly .
The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve ( not your hands ) when you cough or sneeze ; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell .
Also avoiding touching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hands are clean .
-shopping for basic necessities , for example food and medicine , which must be as infrequent as possible-one form of exercise a day , for example a run , walk , or cycle – alone or with members of your household-any medical need , including to donate blood , avoid or escape risk of injury or harm , or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person-travelling for work purposes , but only where you can not work from home

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues, and the Foreign Office is currently advising against all non-essential travel “indefinitely”, but when will it be safe to travel to Thailand?
Here’s what you need to know about the current travel advice.
Current FCO travel advice
The FCO is advising “British nationals against all but essential international travel. Any country or area may restrict travel without notice. If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad, you are strongly advised to return now, where and while there are still commercial routes available. Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving.”
Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has explained that at present, he would not be booking a summer holiday. Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Mr Shapps said that “clearly people will want to see what the trajectory of this disease is in the next few weeks”.
He added: “I won’t be booking a summer holiday at this point, let’s put it that way.”
Thailand travel advice
An Emergency Decree is also currently in force in Thailand. All foreign nationals are barred from entering or transiting Thailand except in certain limited circumstances. If you do not meet these criteria you should not try to enter or transit Thailand.
There are also increasing restrictions on travel within Thailand, which includes the possibility of airport closures and limits on travel between provinces. A nationwide curfew is in effect between 10pm and 4am each day, although with limited exceptions including travel to and from airports.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has extended the existing suspension of incoming international passenger flights until 5pm on 30 April.
Previous advice relating to travel to certain areas of Thailand due to safety concerns still stands.
The FCO “advise against all but essential travel to areas within the provinces on the Thailand-Malaysia border, including:
-Pattani
-Yala
-Narathiwat
-Southern Songkhla province. This does not include areas north of and including the A43 road between -Hat Yai and Sakom, and areas north-west of and including the train line which runs between Hat Yai and Pedang Besar.”
What is the coronavirus?
The virus originated in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, but cases then spread to a multitude of countries around the globe, including Thailand.
The NHS notes that the symptoms of coronavirus are:
-a cough
-a high temperature
-shortness of breath
They add that, “these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness.
“The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.”
However, human coronaviruses can sometimes cause lower-respiratory tract illnesses, such as pneumonia, bronchitis or more severe diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
Coronavirus: The Facts
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus and is spread primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose.
What are the symptoms?
The NHS states that you should not leave the home if you have either:
– a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
•-a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual)
What should I do if I feel unwell?
Don’t go to your GP but instead look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next. Only call 111 if you cannot get help online.
What precautions can be taken?
Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.
When can I go outside?
The Government has put the UK into lockdown and instructed everyone to stay at home. You should only leave your home for very limited purposes:
-shopping for basic necessities, for example food and medicine, which must be as infrequent as possible
-one form of exercise a day, for example a run, walk, or cycle – alone or with members of your household
-any medical need, including to donate blood, avoid or escape risk of injury or harm, or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person
-travelling for work purposes, but only where you cannot work from home
However, these reasons are exceptions – even when doing these activities, you should be minimising time spent outside of the home and ensuring you are 2 metres apart from anyone outside of your household.


inews--2020-04-17--Norman Hunter: Leeds United legend dies after contracting coronavirus

In a statement , Leeds said they were 'devastated to learn of the passing of club icon Norman Hunter at the age of 76' Hunter was a non-playing member of the England squad which won the World Cup in 1966 and won 28 senior caps for his country scoring two goals .
At club level , Hunter came through the youth ranks at Leeds United and he spent 14 years in the first-team at Elland Road , making 726 appearances and scoring 21 times , before taking in spells with Bristol City and Barnsley towards the end of his career @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Billy Bremner and Paul Reaney - have made more appearances for Leeds during their 101-year history .
Regarded as a no-nonsense centre-back , Hunter earned the nickname `` Bite Yer Legs '' for his committed displays for the Whites .
Norman Hunter enjoyed considerable success during his 14-years at Leeds United ( Picture : Getty ) Hunter also enjoyed considerable success at Leeds , playing a pivotal role during their First Division title wins in 1969 and 1974 under Don Revie , while he also lifted the FA Cup , League Cup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 2 ) .
On an individual level , Hunter was named PFA Player of the Year and in the Team of the Year in 1974 .
`` Leeds United are devastated to learn of the passing of club icon Norman Hunter at the age of 76 , '' the club said on Friday .
`` Norman was taken to hospital last week after being diagnosed with Covid-19 and despite continuing to battle and the best efforts of NHS staff , he sadly lost his fight earlier this morning . ''
The club @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the furniture at Elland Road throughout the years , being a regular speaker in the suite named in his honour , and was in attendance as recently as last month ’ s victory over Huddersfield Town .
`` He leaves a huge hole in the Leeds United family , his legacy will never be forgotten and our thoughts are with Norman ’ s family and friends at this very difficult time . ''
A Tweet from the Football Association read : `` We 're extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Norman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Norman was part of our World Cup-winning squad and won 28 caps for the # ThreeLions .
`` All of our thoughts are with his family , friends and supporters at this time . ''

Leeds United legend Norman Hunter has passed away at the age of 76 after contracting Covid-19.
Hunter was a non-playing member of the England squad which won the World Cup in 1966 and won 28 senior caps for his country scoring two goals.
At club level, Hunter came through the youth ranks at Leeds United and he spent 14 years in the first-team at Elland Road, making 726 appearances and scoring 21 times, before taking in spells with Bristol City and Barnsley towards the end of his career.
Only three players – Jack Charlton, Billy Bremner and Paul Reaney – have made more appearances for Leeds during their 101-year history. Regarded as a no-nonsense centre-back, Hunter earned the nickname “Bites Yer Legs” for his committed displays for the Whites.
Hunter also enjoyed considerable success at Leeds, playing a pivotal role during their First Division title wins in 1969 and 1974 under Don Revie, while he also lifted the FA Cup, League Cup, Charity Shield and Inter-Cities Fairs Cup (2). On an individual level, Hunter was named PFA Player of the Year and in the Team of the Year in 1974.
“Leeds United are devastated to learn of the passing of club icon Norman Hunter at the age of 76,” the club said on Friday.
“Norman was taken to hospital last week after being diagnosed with Covid-19 and despite continuing to battle and the best efforts of NHS staff, he sadly lost his fight earlier this morning.”
The club added: “Norman remained part of the furniture at Elland Road throughout the years, being a regular speaker in the suite named in his honour, and was in attendance as recently as last month’s victory over Huddersfield Town.
“He leaves a huge hole in the Leeds United family, his legacy will never be forgotten and our thoughts are with Norman’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”
A Tweet from the Football Association read: “We’re extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Norman Hunter at the age of 76. Norman was part of our World Cup-winning squad and won 28 caps for the #ThreeLions.
“All of our thoughts are with his family, friends and supporters at this time.”
The Professional Footballers’ Association said: “Football has lost a legend and we join the entire football community in mourning this loss.”


inews--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: Why the government is accused of being in limbo and delaying decisions as Boris Johnson

Coronavirus: Why the government is accused of being in limbo and delaying decisions as Boris Johnson recovers

Coronavirus : Why the government is accused of being in limbo and delaying decisions as Boris Johnson recovers Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer claims ministers are 'reluctant ' to take big decisions Ask Downing Street or ministers whether the government machine is in limbo during the coronavirus crisis during They will tell you that Cabinet ministers and the Cobra emergencies committee continue to meet continuously - albeit virtually - and are taking constant advice from medical and scientific experts .
Whitehall departments are in permanent contact with one another and with the agencies - such as Public Health England - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus and care for its victims .
Yet there is a difference between the everyday business of governing - even in the extraordinary times the world is living through - and making the big calls that could make a profound difference to the nation ’ s physical , mental and economic health .
At some point the Government will have to spell out its plans for easing the strict lockdown which will last until 7 May at the earliest .
The refusal of Dominic Raab , who is deputising for Mr Johnson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the subject has fuelled suspicions that they are prevaricating because final responsibility for the decision - and the judgement of history - will rest with the recuperating Prime Minister .
The Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer told the BBC : “ It feels as though they have been in a position probably for a week or 10 days now where it 's been difficult for the Government to make big decisions.
” He added : “ I suspect , although I do n't know , that Dominic Raab is just reluctant - he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for an exit strategy - but he 's probably reluctant to sign it off without the Prime Minister and I think there 's a bit of that in the mix.
” Nicola Sturgeon , the Scottish First Minister , questioned whether such criticism was fair in such difficult times , but told BBC Radio 4 : “ I ’ m pretty sure for any government to have the head of that government because he is convalescing doesn ’ t make it any easier.
” She appeared to aim a swipe at Mr Raab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public “ like the grown-ups they are ” and give more detail next week on the Scottsh government ’ s thinking ( although not a potential timetable ) over the relaxation of the lockdown .
Responding to Sir Keir ’ s comments , the Transport Secretary Grant Shapps pointed to all the meetings he is attending where “ day-to-day decisions ” are being taken .
`` It 's simply not the case that everything is on standstill .
There would have been no difference to those decisions because we have been guided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scientists and the medical advice , whether or not the Prime Minister had been in the room or not in the room on this instance .

Afghan women wait to receive food rations distributed by a humanitarian aid group in Kabul in May this year (Photo: Ebrahim Noroozi/AP)
Last month, I met Fawzia Koofi. Fawzia was the first female deputy speaker of the Afghan parliament and one of only a few women involved in the intra-Afghan peace talks. She has survived multiple assassination attempts. Fawzia is a formidable champion for women. Yet instead of building a future for all Afghans, she lives here in exile.
Two years on from the Taliban takeover, Afghans deserve and need our solidarity more than ever. More than 29 million people now need humanitarian assistance – 900,000 more than at the start of 2023. Almost three million people are at “emergency” levels of hunger and malnutrition – one step away from famine.
For Afghan women and girls, things have only gotten worse. They are disproportionately affected by the humanitarian crisis and their most fundamental rights also remain under constant attack by the Taliban. According to the UN, progress has already been set back 20 years. Women’s rights to work, travel without a male relative, choose how to dress – or even operate a beauty salon – have all been highly restricted.
It is now 692 long days since girls were first banned from secondary education. The prevention of secondary education is unpopular among Afghans and criticised by the entire Islamic world. Many families have realised that the only chance of education for their daughters is through emigration, as Afghan girls will be denied a chance to realise their talents and fulfil their dreams. Such restrictions fly in the face of all the evidence that women’s inclusion could build a better Afghanistan.
The situation must improve. Britain has both an interest in and a historic responsibility for it doing so. In the months following the West’s withdrawal, we warned that “complete failure to engage is costing lives and not sustainable”. David Lammy and I visited Afghanistan in 2022 with the UN. We were the only British MPs to have visited until Tobias Ellwood made his recent trip; his description of the country sparked huge backlash from women’s rights organisations. His comments showed ignorance of how restricted life has become for Afghan women and his subsequent apology was an important step. In contrast, what I saw first-hand in Afghanistan is a country where women’s rights are violated and women and girls have practically disappeared from public life.
Under the Conservatives, as much as they talk about the importance of gender equality and supporting women and girls, Britain is largely absent. Women and girls’ voices have been pushed to the margins in Afghanistan and years of badly executed aid cuts had already wreaked havoc. This year, no country’s crisis response has been more dramatically defunded than Afghanistan: the Government has slashed Britain’s contribution by 59 per cent. The Government’s own Equalities Impact Assessment, published by Parliament earlier this month, revealed the kind of activities that will now end in Afghanistan: child nutrition, girls’ education, polio vaccinations, and demining programmes.
Britain has an interest in a stable and secure Afghanistan but by deprioritising Afghanistan, there is a real risk that the Conservatives will spark an international race to the bottom among donors: the United Nations’ Humanitarian Response Plan was only 9 per cent funded by mid-2023. It is Afghan women and girls who will pay the greatest price.
It is time for a new approach. In government, Labour will introduce a feminist development policy, ensuring we work with women and girls to tackle deep-rooted gender inequality and violence and harassment against women and girls globally. In Afghanistan, for that approach to succeed, Afghan women and girls themselves must help guide our approach.
Currently, unlike in the US, there is no formal process for Britain’s Afghan community to engage with policy makers. Therefore, Labour would create consultative mechanisms for effective engagement in Whitehall and appoint an advisory group of Afghan women to the FCDO. And to keep the international community’s eyes on the crisis in Afghanistan, Labour would convene a global summit for Afghan women and girls.
Having spoken to Fawzia Koofi, she said: “What the women of Afghanistan are going through is personal for me. For those women who have been part of the progress of their country less than two years ago, the experience of being stranded on the outside looking in as years of progress is steadily erased is devastating.
“Today, Afghan girls are banned from all basic rights again, including education beyond grade six. And recently, if girls are taller and 10 years old they are banned from attending school beyond the third grade in some provinces.
“That is why it is important for the international community to draw clear principles and lines in their engagement with the de facto authorities. And that is why engagement with the women of Afghanistan – listening to them, putting them at the forefront of consultation and engaging with their views and recommendations – is so important.
“I welcome Labour’s plans to prioritise more systematic engagement with Afghan women in Britain and at the international level. Afghan women must not be locked out from dialogue about the future of our country.”
Like Fawzia, the other extraordinary Afghan women I’ve spoken to to develop these policies have all served Afghanistan in different ways. Some are diplomats or academics, others judges or journalists. They all hold in common a steadfast commitment to public service and to women’s rights. There may – for now – be no place for women at the table in Afghanistan as its people navigate humanitarian crisis. But in Britain, Labour will make sure there is space.
Preet Gill is the shadow Secretary of State for International Development of the United Kingdom and Labour MP for Birmingham Edgbaston


inews--2020-04-17--The 10 best TV shows to watch this week, from Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins to The Big Night In

The 10 best TV shows to watch this week , from Celebrity SAS : Who Dares Wins to The Big Night In There 's also Lady Gaga 's One World : Together At Home concert , the return of The Great British Sewing Bee and new drama Gangs of London One World : Together At Home Clara Amfo , Dermot O'Leary and Claudia Winkleman present One World '' Together At Home ( Photo : BBC ) Lady Gaga and the World Health Organisation have pulled some strings and tempted some of music ’ s biggest stars to perform from their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Martin , Elton John , Alanis Morissette , John Legend , Billie Eilish and , er , David Beckham are all set to make an appearance .
When Gaga says jump , the world asks how high .
Filmed in 2018 , 23 years after its premiere , this revival of Matthew Bourne ’ s game-changing production of Swan Lake will calm any dance lover ’ s itchy feet .
Anyone unfamiliar need know only one thing in preparation : the swans , traditionally female , are replaced by male ballet dancers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lifers Stacey Dooley : Locked Up with the Lifers ( Photo : BBC ) Stacey Dooley travels to the Iowa Correctional Institution , one of America ’ s most forward-thinking women ’ s prisons , where warden Sheryl Dahm has forgone traditional correctional values in favour of building up her charges ’ self-esteem and sense of purpose .
Dooley meets the inmates who have been sentenced to life in the facility where pet dogs walk the corridors and personal calls can be made at any time .
Kirstie : Keep Crafting and Carry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On ( Photo : Channel 4 ) Kirstie Allsopp is the latest presenter to offer her services to anyone with bored and hobbyless children in lockdown .
First up in her new daily craft-along series is a hotel for bugs , a three-dimensional flower for a cushion and that all-time party classic , a paper garland .
Imperial College London and Corpus Christi , Cambridge , go head-to-head in the final of the smartest quiz on TV .
If you have been following this series , you ’ ll know that this means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showdown – the two most notable students since Seagull and Monkman .
Former glamour model Katie Price and Towie star Joey Essex are among the 12 celebrities gearing up for Ant Middleton ’ s gruelling SAS training scheme .
Their first challenge is a 50m cliff freefall , which might leave rather fewer than 12 to see out the rest of the course .
BBC cameras bed down in Birmingham ’ s maternity units to capture the joy – and pain – of pregnancy , childbirth and neonatal life .
In the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her childhood sweetheart Luke , who are nervous about their new arrival after the trauma of their first baby , who developed sepsis hours after birth .
It is hard to imagine a TV competition even more gentle than Bake Off , but The Great British Sewing Bee tries its hardest .
Patrick Grant and Esme Young return to judge alongside host Joe Lycett , but it ’ s the 12 new contestants who really steal the show as they make a wrap skirt and then their first made-to-measure garment , a tea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Need team up for the first time in this special telethon to raise money for those fighting coronavirus on the frontline .
Sir Lenny Henry will host part of the night , with help from Matt Baker , Zoe Ball and Paddy McGuinness .
All-star guests will include Peter Kay , Catherine Tate and Gary Barlow .
Joe Cole leaves behind the Shelbys of Peaky Blinders for the Wallaces , the crime family at the centre of Sky ’ s new gangster series .
He plays Sean , a young man thrust into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s death .
If you ’ re squeamish , you might want to keep a cushion to hand .

One World: Together At Home
Sunday 19 April, 7.45pm, BBC O
Lady Gaga and the World Health Organisation have pulled some strings and tempted some of music’s biggest stars to perform from their own homes. Stevie Wonder, Chris Martin, Elton John, Alanis Morissette, John Legend, Billie Eilish and, er, David Beckham are all set to make an appearance. When Gaga says jump, the world asks how high.
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake
Sunday 19 April, 8pm, Sky Arts
Filmed in 2018, 23 years after its premiere, this revival of Matthew Bourne’s game-changing production of Swan Lake will calm any dance lover’s itchy feet. Anyone unfamiliar need know only one thing in preparation: the swans, traditionally female, are replaced by male ballet dancers.
Stacey Dooley: Locked Up With The Lifers
Sunday 19 April, 9pm, BBC Two
Stacey Dooley travels to the Iowa Correctional Institution, one of America’s most forward-thinking women’s prisons, where warden Sheryl Dahm has forgone traditional correctional values in favour of building up her charges’ self-esteem and sense of purpose. Dooley meets the inmates who have been sentenced to life in the facility where pet dogs walk the corridors and personal calls can be made at any time.
Kirstie: Keep Crafting and Carry On
Monday 20 April, 5pm, Channel 4
Kirstie Allsopp is the latest presenter to offer her services to anyone with bored and hobbyless children in lockdown. First up in her new daily craft-along series is a hotel for bugs, a three-dimensional flower for a cushion and that all-time party classic, a paper garland.
University Challenge: The Final
Monday 20 April, 8.30pm, BBC Two
Imperial College London and Corpus Christi, Cambridge, go head-to-head in the final of the smartest quiz on TV. If you have been following this series, you’ll know that this means we are getting a Wang vs Blackwell showdown – the two most notable students since Seagull and Monkman.
Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins
Monday 20 April, 9pm, Channel 4
Former glamour model Katie Price and Towie star Joey Essex are among the 12 celebrities gearing up for Ant Middleton’s gruelling SAS training scheme. Their first challenge is a 50m cliff freefall, which might leave rather fewer than 12 to see out the rest of the course.
Life and Birth
Tuesday 21 April, 8pm, BBC One
BBC cameras bed down in Birmingham’s maternity units to capture the joy – and pain – of pregnancy, childbirth and neonatal life. In the first episode, we meet 22-year-old Ashleigh and her childhood sweetheart Luke, who are nervous about their new arrival after the trauma of their first baby, who developed sepsis hours after birth.
The Great British Sewing Bee
Wednesday 22 April, 9pm, BBC One
It is hard to imagine a TV competition even more gentle than Bake Off, but The Great British Sewing Bee tries its hardest. Patrick Grant and Esme Young return to judge alongside host Joe Lycett, but it’s the 12 new contestants who really steal the show as they make a wrap skirt and then their first made-to-measure garment, a tea dress.
The Big Night In
Thursday 23 April, 7pm, BBC One
Comic Relief and Children in Need team up for the first time in this special telethon to raise money for those fighting coronavirus on the frontline. Sir Lenny Henry will host part of the night, with help from Matt Baker, Zoe Ball and Paddy McGuinness. All-star guests will include Peter Kay, Catherine Tate and Gary Barlow.
Gangs of London
Thursday 23 April, 9pm, Sky Atlantic
Joe Cole leaves behind the Shelbys of Peaky Blinders for the Wallaces, the crime family at the centre of Sky’s new gangster series. He plays Sean,
a young man thrust into power and seeking revenge for his father’s death. If you’re squeamish, you might want to keep a cushion to hand.


inews--2020-04-17--Coronavirus in Germany: the latest official advice about when you can travel

Coronavirus in Germany : the latest official advice about when you can travel As the UK extends its lockdown , some might be wondering when they 'll be able to go on holiday again With the virus continuing to spread around the world , the Foreign & Commonwealth office has issued travel advice for several countries .
Germany has intensified its border controls at airports and at its land borders as well - unless those trying to cross the border are residents in Germany , or can provide a reasonable explanation for travelling to Germany , they will be refused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduced temporary border checks on its land borders with France , Austria , Switzerland , Luxembourg and Denmark - those without good reason will not be permitted entry .
When will I be able to travel to Germany ?
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has said he would certainly not be booking a summer holiday at present .
Speaking to BBC Radio 4 's Today programme , Mr Shapps said that `` clearly people will want to see what the trajectory of this disease is in the next few weeks '' .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK lockdown has also been extended by a further three weeks , as Dominic Raab urged members of the public to be patient .
The Federal Ministry of Health ( FMH ) states that they are “ witnessing a substantial increase in the number of infections in Germany ” .
All 16 of the federal states in Germany have been affected by the coronavirus outbreak , with the highest number of cases occuring in Bavaria , Baden-Wuerttemberg , Saarland and Hamburg .
The Robert Koch Insitiute said : “ Most cases ( 68 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years old ; men ( 48 % ) and women ( 52 % ) are almost equally affected.
” The RKI added : “ 86 % of deaths , but only 18 % in all cases , occurred in persons aged 70 years or older.
” “ As a result , the authorities have imposed drastic restrictions on everyday life , in a move to slow down any further spread of the virus , ” the FMH had said .
As the authorities monitor the effectiveness of these restrictions , some of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A partial reopening of schools was announced for 4 May and hairdressers could see their doors reopen as long as they follow specific health precautions – this also applies to smaller shops , like bookshops , bike stores and car dealerships , from 11 May .

With the virus continuing to spread around the world, the Foreign & Commonwealth office has issued travel advice for several countries.
Here’s the latest travel advice for Germany amid the outbreak.
Can I travel to Germany
Given the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the FCO advises British nationals against “all but essential travel”.
Germany has intensified its border controls at airports and at its land borders as well – unless those trying to cross the border are residents in Germany, or can provide a reasonable explanation for travelling to Germany, they will be refused entry.
On 16 March, Germany introduced temporary border checks on its land borders with France, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark – those without good reason will not be permitted entry.
All travellers arriving in Germany are instructed to remain in quarantine for 14 days.
When will I be able to travel to Germany?
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has said he would certainly not be booking a summer holiday at present.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Mr Shapps said that “clearly people will want to see what the trajectory of this disease is in the next few weeks”.
He added: “I won’t be booking a summer holiday at this point, let’s put it that way.”
The FCO has advised against all travel abroad indefinitely, and this advice remains in place.
It was announced on Thursday 16 April that the UK lockdown has also been extended by a further three weeks, as Dominic Raab urged members of the public to be patient.
Coronavirus in Germany
The Federal Ministry of Health (FMH) states that they are “witnessing a substantial increase in the number of infections in Germany”.
All 16 of the federal states in Germany have been affected by the coronavirus outbreak, with the highest number of cases occuring in Bavaria, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Saarland and Hamburg.
The Robert Koch Insitiute said: “Most cases (68%) are between 15 and 59 years old; men (48%) and women (52%) are almost equally affected.”
The RKI added: “86% of deaths, but only 18% in all cases, occurred in persons aged 70 years or older.”
“As a result, the authorities have imposed drastic restrictions on everyday life, in a move to slow down any further spread of the virus,” the FMH had said.
As the authorities monitor the effectiveness of these restrictions, some of the lockdown rules could begin to relax.
A partial reopening of schools was announced for 4 May and hairdressers could see their doors reopen as long as they follow specific health precautions – this also applies to smaller shops, like bookshops, bike stores and car dealerships, from 11 May.
“Our networks of centres of expertise and special clinics is unmatched by international standards,” the FMH stated. “We have a very good disease warning and notification system, as well as excellent pandemic preparedness plans.”


inews--2020-04-17--Margaret Payne: How to donate to the 90-year-old's Just Giving NHS fundraiser she 'climbs Suilven' i

Margaret Payne: How to donate to the 90-year-old's Just Giving NHS fundraiser she 'climbs Suilven' inspired by Captain Tom Moore

Mrs Payne takes on the stair-climbing challenge several times throughout the day , starting in the morning once she is ready and finishing in the late afternoon .
Mrs Payne , who lives in Ardvar , Sutherland , said she was never a hillwalker , having lived with knee problems since she was 12 .
Her true passion was fishing and she said she would walk miles to reach the best spots .
She said : `` I do walk around the garden , every nice day .
`` I 'm always afraid of being blown over now so when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Her daughter Nicky McArthur believes the fresh air of north-west Scotland has helped keep her mother healthy , adding : `` Mum is still incredibly active .
She is an avid reader and crossword-doer .
I think part of it is just staying interested in life . ''
JustGiving announced on Thursday that Captain Moore became the biggest individual fundraiser ever .
Mr Moore , who lives with his family in Bedfordshire , hoped to raise £1,000 for the NHS by walking 25 metre laps of his garden , but raised more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now on £18,240,914.92 .
Money raised by Mr Moore and others for NHS Charities Together is being spent on wellbeing packs for NHS staff , rest and recuperation rooms , electronic devices to enable hospital patients to keep in contact with loved ones and a support community groups help discharged patients .
You can donate to his page here .

A 90 year-old woman has pledged to walk up her stairs 282 times to raise money for the NHS, following in the footsteps of Captain Tom Moore.
Margaret Payne, 90, began climbing on Sunday and is aiming to complete the equivalent of Highland mountain Suilven – 731m (2,398ft) at her Sutherland home.
Inspired by Captain Moore
Captain Tom Moore, who has raised more than £23m for the NHS through a charity garden walk, inspired her to take on the climb.
Mrs Payne started the challenge on Easter Sunday and expects it will take her around two months to complete.
She had raised £1,800 by Wednesday and by Saturday 18 April, her donations had exceeded £203,000. Her target was £10,000.
The challenge is her way of saying thank-you to NHS and hospice staff who took care of her late husband Jim.
She said: “I think it’s amazing, I wasn’t expecting anything like it – 10,000 thank-yous.
“I think it’s brilliant of them all and I feel the NHS really deserve it.
“They have been amazing, each day they are risking their lives.
How can you donate?
You can donate online using card or Paypal and can donate to Mrs Payne’s challenge here.
Simply click the ‘donate’ button and you’ll be taken to a page where you can enter the amount of money you want to donate.
Once your donation goes through you will see a unique payment reference onscreen, and receive an email with it too.


inews--2020-04-17--Coronavirus lockdown: Bears, wolves and deer reclaim deserted cities as humans stay at home

Coronavirus lockdown : Bears , wolves and deer reclaim deserted cities as humans stay at home The sight of frolicking dolphins may warm the heart but beware the bear ... Papillon , who escaped over three electrified fences , was spotted regularly last year in Alpine areas in Italy ’ s Trento province ( Photo : Province of Trento Press Office ) A wolf slinks out of a park in Sesto Fiorentino , an industrial centre near Florence .
Goslings waddle behind their mothers along deserted thoroughfares in Treviso .
Fallow deer invade a golf course on Sardinia and take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As Italians entered the sixth week of Europe ’ s longest Covid-19 lockdown on 13 April , one thing they had to cheer them up was the sight of animals in spaces that humankind had temporarily abandoned .
At Cagliari on Sardinia , bottlenose dolphins have long been known to wait at the mouth of the port to play in the wake of departing motor vessels .
But since the lockdown some have entered right into the port , where they have been filmed swimming up and down under a quay , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ similar phenomenon has been observed at Trieste .
“ A non-scientist might speculate that the dolphins are thinking : ‘ Why aren ’ t you moving around in your boats any longer ?
’ ” says Giuseppe Bogliani , formerly a University of Pavia professor .
Italians entered the sixth week of Europe ’ s longest Covid-19 lockdown on 13 April ( Photo : ANDREA PATTARO/S fornasier/AFP/Getty ) Bogliani cautions against assuming that nature is reclaiming its own .
Some mammals , like foxes , may have been in the cities already , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eagle spotted gliding above a main road in Milan posed a different question : “ Is it there because of the lockdown , or did we just see it because of the lockdown ?
” Not all reappearances have been welcomed .
Residents in Alpine areas of the province of Trento have been advised not only to stay at home , but to refrain from leaving out rubbish that might attract Italy ’ s most wanted animal , a brown bear known to scientists as m49 and to the public as “ Papillon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year over three electrified fences ) .
Papillon is nicknamed after Henri Charrière , the only man to escape from the French penal colony on Devil ’ s Island .
Like the late Charrière , the bear has a substantial criminal record .
It includes breaking and entering ( Alpine cottages and refuges ) and attacks on cattle .
Last year the government of Trento issued an order for Papillon ’ s capture .
He has now been spotted heading for Veneto , which has not ( yet ) issued a warrant .
@ @ @

A wolf slinks out of a park in Sesto Fiorentino, an industrial centre near Florence. Goslings waddle behind their mothers along deserted thoroughfares in Treviso. Fallow deer invade a golf course on Sardinia and take a dip in the clubhouse swimming pool.
As Italians entered the sixth week of Europe’s longest Covid-19 lockdown on 13 April, one thing they had to cheer them up was the sight of animals in spaces that humankind had temporarily abandoned.
At Cagliari on Sardinia, bottlenose dolphins have long been known to wait at the mouth of the port to play in the wake of departing motor vessels. But since the lockdown some have entered right into the port, where they have been filmed swimming up and down under a quay, looking at the humans above.
A similar phenomenon has been observed at Trieste. “A non-scientist might speculate that the dolphins are thinking: ‘Why aren’t you moving around in your boats any longer?’” says Giuseppe Bogliani, formerly a University of Pavia professor.
Nature reclaiming cities
Bogliani cautions against assuming that nature is reclaiming its own. Some mammals, like foxes, may have been in the cities already, prowling undetected at night. A golden eagle spotted gliding above a main road in Milan posed a different question: “Is it there because of the lockdown, or did we just see it because of the lockdown?”
Not all reappearances have been welcomed. Residents in Alpine areas of the province of Trento have been advised not only to stay at home, but to refrain from leaving out rubbish that might attract Italy’s most wanted animal, a brown bear known to scientists as m49 and to the public as “Papillon” (because of his escape last year over three electrified fences).
Papillon is nicknamed after Henri Charrière, the only man to escape from the French penal colony on Devil’s Island. Like the late Charrière, the bear has a substantial criminal record. It includes breaking and entering (Alpine cottages and refuges) and attacks on cattle. Last year the government of Trento issued an order for Papillon’s capture. He has now been spotted heading for Veneto, which has not (yet) issued a warrant. Smart bear.
© 2020 The Economist


inews--2020-04-17--Coronavirus lockdown: Businesses that paid only lip service to digital transformation are struggling

Coronavirus lockdown: Businesses that paid only lip service to digital transformation are struggling to provide service

Coronavirus lockdown : Businesses that paid only lip service to digital transformation are struggling to provide service Doing this frequently , well , in every country , and across all platforms will separate winners from the rest The year 2020 was going to be filled with so many puns about perfect vision – but no one saw Covid-19 coming .
In years to come , business commentary will be about life “ pre- and post-Coronavirus ” , much like “ pre- and post- banking crises ” .
However , now no one expects things to be the same – ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not the way we behave towards each other nor the way we communicate .
Connecting with each other has gone truly digital .
Zoom and Microsoft Teams have become routine in our daily dialogue .
We have seen greater connectivity , including better e-learning , e-fitness , e-socialising and e-health .
If there were any boardrooms or governments wondering how much digital transformation to do and how soon , they now know for sure – deep and fast .
The kind of business interruption we are seeing now is more common than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faced this last year when there was disruption in Hong Kong and strikes in Paris .
Your commuting time is slashed to mere seconds when you work from home ( Photo : Pixabay ) We would have suffered had we not built an orchestration platform with virtualised environments , storage and automation tools to help our teams and customers avoid any major operational disruption .
So , when Covid-19 came we were able to cope , moving 4,500 people from office to remote working in a week .
However , some businesses that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still struggling to provide effective service .
Digital transformation is not a plug-and-play software programme .
It involves how companies organise people , processes and technology to improve the way they operate .
While global businesses are gradually focusing more on the power of technologies to drive their growth strategy , today they are looking at it as a tool to stay in business .
It is no longer only about transforming industries by offering greater efficiencies and making businesses more agile , but also about making businesses more resilient and less anchored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , staying in touch with them , serving them the right content and , in the right format , to support business and deliver a better user experience is at the heart of digital transformation .
Doing this frequently , well , in every country , and across all platforms will separate winners from the rest .
We can hardly predict the future in the post-Covid-19 age , but for sure digital transformation and global digital content will be at the core of the “ new normal ” .
This crisis is bringing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being impacted and against that sad backdrop , everyone must dig deep and use this as a catalyst to shape a new , more digital future that makes business , society and countries more resilient to deliver true change for the future .

The year 2020 was going to be filled with so many puns about perfect vision – but no one saw Covid-19 coming. In years to come, business commentary will be about life “pre- and post-Coronavirus”, much like “pre- and post- banking crises”.
However, now no one expects things to be the same – ever again. Not the way we work, not the way we behave towards each other nor the way we communicate. Connecting with each other has gone truly digital.
Zoom and Microsoft Teams have become routine in our daily dialogue. We have seen greater connectivity, including better e-learning, e-fitness, e-socialising and e-health. If there were any boardrooms or governments wondering how much digital transformation to do and how soon, they now know for sure – deep and fast.
The kind of business interruption we are seeing now is more common than one thinks. At SDL, we faced this last year when there was disruption in Hong Kong and strikes in Paris.
We would have suffered had we not built an orchestration platform with virtualised environments, storage and automation tools to help our teams and customers avoid any major operational disruption. So, when Covid-19 came we were able to cope, moving 4,500 people from office to remote working in a week.
However, some businesses that paid only lip service to digitalisation are still struggling to provide effective service. Digital transformation is not a plug-and-play software programme. It involves how companies organise people, processes and technology to improve the way they operate.
While global businesses are gradually focusing more on the power of technologies to drive their growth strategy, today they are looking at it as a tool to stay in business.
It is no longer only about transforming industries by offering greater efficiencies and making businesses more agile, but also about making businesses more resilient and less anchored to physical geographies. Reaching your audience, staying in touch with them, serving them the right content and, in the right format, to support business and deliver a better user experience is at the heart of digital transformation.
Doing this frequently, well, in every country, and across all platforms will separate winners from the rest.
We can hardly predict the future in the post-Covid-19 age, but for sure digital transformation and global digital content will be at the core of the “new normal”. This crisis is bringing tragic losses of life.
Many livelihoods are being impacted and against that sad backdrop, everyone must dig deep and use this as a catalyst to shape a new, more digital future that makes business, society and countries more resilient to deliver true change for the future.
Adolfo Hernandez is the chief executive of SDL


inews--2020-04-17--Coronavirus lockdown: Concerns raised about 'rip-off' Chinese masks and PPE for sale on Amazon

Coronavirus lockdown : Concerns raised about 'rip-off ' Chinese masks and PPE for sale on Amazon Amazon has removed a number of face masks from its site while it investigates after i raised concerns British shoppers are complaining of being ripped off by Chinese firms who are using the coronavirus pandemic to sell dirty and broken face masks and other unusable items of personal protective equipment .
After the World Health Organisation ’ s Covid-19 envoy said wearing masks in the street could soon become routine , i has alerted Amazon to a string of shocking reviews from customers about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being sold on its site .
In one case , masks labelled as UK stock had delivery times of up to a month and further checks showed the seller is based in Shenzhen .
One reviewer said the masks they received were “ posted in a bag and they are dirty inside ” .
Others complained that the elastic straps “ break off too easily ” and the masks were “ badly fitted seconds from China ” .
A similar product advertised with a Union flag and being sold by a firm based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absolute rip off ” by a reviewer who claimed the seller was “ making money out of this awful situation ” .
A British hospital worker added that the masks they had bought were “ flimsy ” and could not be tightened properly around the face .
They said : “ I compared it to a face mask from the hospital where I work , where you actually see two different layers and peel them apart ” .
A third customer said : “ Don ’ t fall for it.
” 'If the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consumers should seek a refund from the seller and report it to Amazon ' , said Sue Davies Sue Davies , the head of consumer protection at Which ?
, said : “ Millions of people are relying on Amazon for essential items during the coronavirus crisis and it seems sellers on its online marketplace have potentially been misleading people into buying poor-quality goods that at worst do not offer any health protection .
“ If the product does not arrive as described , consumers should seek a refund from the seller and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crack down on any third-party sellers found to be making false claims about their products.
” The campaign group VAT Fraud , which has previously raised concerns about online Chinese sales in the UK , has called for Amazon and other online retailers to be held liable for any non-compliant or dangerous goods sold through their sites .
The group ’ s spokesman , Neven Juretic , said : “ Chinese sellers are out of reach from prosecution , so liability needs to be passed down the supply chain .
”

British shoppers are complaining of being ripped off by Chinese firms who are using the coronavirus pandemic to sell dirty and broken face masks and other unusable items of personal protective equipment.
After the World Health Organisation’s Covid-19 envoy said wearing masks in the street could soon become routine, i has alerted Amazon to a string of shocking reviews from customers about the quality of some of the PPE being sold on its site.
In one case, masks labelled as UK stock had delivery times of up to a month and further checks showed the seller is based in Shenzhen.
One reviewer said the masks they received were “posted in a bag and they are dirty inside”. Others complained that the elastic straps “break off too easily” and the masks were “badly fitted seconds from China”.
‘Absolute rip off’
A similar product advertised with a Union flag and being sold by a firm based in Shenzhen was described as an “absolute rip off” by a reviewer who claimed the seller was “making money out of this awful situation”.
A British hospital worker added that the masks they had bought were “flimsy” and could not be tightened properly around the face. They said: “I compared it to a face mask from the hospital where I work, where you actually see two different layers and peel them apart”. A third customer said: “Don’t fall for it.”
Sue Davies, the head of consumer protection at Which?, said: “Millions of people are relying on Amazon for essential items during the coronavirus crisis and it seems sellers on its online marketplace have potentially been misleading people into buying poor-quality goods that at worst do not offer any health protection.
“If the product does not arrive as described, consumers should seek a refund from the seller and report it to Amazon which should then crack down on any third-party sellers found to be making false claims about their products.”
The campaign group VAT Fraud, which has previously raised concerns about online Chinese sales in the UK, has called for Amazon and other online retailers to be held liable for any non-compliant or dangerous goods sold through their sites. The group’s spokesman, Neven Juretic, said: “Chinese sellers are out of reach from prosecution, so liability needs to be passed down the supply chain.”
Amazon has removed a number of face masks from its site while it investigates after i raised concerns about a number of products.