inews--2020-05-31--Chief scientific adviser defends Government's lockdown approach amid warnings from Sage experts

Sir Patrick Vallance said that Sage 's experts have ' a wide range ' of opinions , and that ministers 'must decide ' on the course to take The Government 's chief scientific adviser has defended the UK 's coronavirus lockdown approach , after members of Sage criticised the decision to begin easing restrictions .
Sir Patrick Vallance , who co-chairs the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies , responded after several members of the science body spoke out to say that they believe moves to rapidly ease lockdown restrictions are “ risky ” .
The Government has been accused of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans to re-open schools and ease lockdown measures .
Writing in The Telegraph , Sir Patrick stressed : `` Science advice to [ Government ] needs to be direct and given without fear or favour .
But it is advice .
`` Ministers must decide and have to take many other factors into consideration .
In a democracy , that is the only way it should be .
The science advice needs to be independent of politics . ''
He added that Sage 's experts have a wide range of opinions , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
'Very aware of the responsibility' '' As a civil servant and the Government ’ s chief scientific adviser , I am very aware of the responsibility and trust invested in me and the army of scientists and experts during this crisis , '' the official said .
He added : `` Sage is not an infallible body of experts and nor is there cosy group think .
`` There is a range of opinions in all of discussions and there is wide reading of the latest research , but what Sage endeavours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position or a range of positions , to provide options ministers could consider and explain the uncertainties and assumptions inherent in that science and evidence . ''
Other Sage members have spoken publicly saying they believe the UK is easing some lockdown measures too soon .
`` Many of us would prefer to see the incidence driven down to lower levels so we have fewer cases occurring before we then relax the measures , '' said Professor John Edmunds , of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine .
`` Even if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we manage to keep incidence flat , we ’ re keeping it flat at quite a high level . ''
The reproduction rate - or R - is hovering between 0.7 and 0.9 , only just below the crucial rate of 1 , above which the number of cases begins to rise .
However , primary schools are set to reopen on Monday , with 15 June earmarked for the return of non-essential shops .

The Government’s chief scientific adviser has defended the UK’s coronavirus lockdown approach, after members of Sage criticised the decision to begin easing restrictions.
Sir Patrick Vallance, who co-chairs the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, responded after several members of the science body spoke out to say that they believe moves to rapidly ease lockdown restrictions are “risky”.
The Government has been accused of disregarding expert advice by pressing ahead with plans to re-open schools and ease lockdown measures.
Writing in The Telegraph, Sir Patrick stressed: “Science advice to [Government] needs to be direct and given without fear or favour. But it is advice.
“Ministers must decide and have to take many other factors into consideration. In a democracy, that is the only way it should be. The science advice needs to be independent of politics.”
He added that Sage’s experts have a wide range of opinions, and its advice will not always be right.
‘Very aware of the responsibility’
“As a civil servant and the Government’s chief scientific adviser, I am very aware of the responsibility and trust invested in me and the army of scientists and experts during this crisis,” the official said.
He added: “Sage is not an infallible body of experts and nor is there cosy group think.
“There is a range of opinions in all of discussions and there is wide reading of the latest research, but what Sage endeavours to do is come down to a position or a range of positions, to provide options ministers could consider and explain the uncertainties and assumptions inherent in that science and evidence.”
Sage criticism
Other Sage members have spoken publicly saying they believe the UK is easing some lockdown measures too soon.
“Many of us would prefer to see the incidence driven down to lower levels so we have fewer cases occurring before we then relax the measures,” said Professor John Edmunds, of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
“With relatively high incidence, relaxing the measures with an untested ‘track and trace’, I think we are taking some risk here.


inews--2020-05-31--Duke and Duchess of Cambridge push back at 'inaccurate' Tatler article on Meghan feud

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge push back at 'inaccurate ' Tatler article on Meghan feud Kensington Palace says the article contains ' a swathe of inaccuracies and false representations' The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are understood to have sent legal letters to society magazine Tatler after it published a story claiming the Duchess had been left exhausted as a result of Harry and Meghan withdrawing from Royal duties .
According to The Mail on Sunday , William and Kate have sent letters to the magazine demanding it removes its profile of the duchess headlined 'Catherine the Great ' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Duchess ( Photo : Chris Jackson - WPA Pool/Getty Images ) The Mail on Sunday said the palace is “ furious ” about claims that Kate feels “ exhausted and trapped ” by the increased workload following Harry and Meghan ’ s decision to step back .
The article , written by author Anna Pasternak , also makes reference to the eating disorders suffered by William 's mother Princess Diana , saying : “ Kate has become perilously thin , just like - some point out - Princes Diana.
” The Mail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That is such an extremely cruel and wounding barb .
It 's disgusting .
It 's sexist and woman-shaming at its very worst .
“ The piece is full of lies .
There is no truth to their claim that the Duchess feels overwhelmed with work , nor that the Duke is obsessed with Carole Middleton .
It 's preposterous and downright wrong.
” The couple were accused of being angry at Prince Harry for leaving the UK ( Photo : Phil Harris - WPA Pool/Getty Images ) The Tatler article cited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is furious about the larger workload .
She feels exhausted and trapped.
” However , the official record of Royal engagements suggests the couple have done a similar number of jobs from January to March as they did in the same period last year , while Kate has only done 29 this year compared to 35 in 2019 .
Kensington Palace said in a statement issued after the article was originally published : “ This story contains a swathe of inaccuracies and false misrepresentations which were not put to Kensington Palace prior to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Kensington Palace raised its concerns last week that its editor in chief Richard Dennen stood behind Anna Pasternak ’ s reporting and her sources .
It said : “ 'Kensington Palace knew we were running the `` Catherine the Great '' cover months ago and we asked them to work together on it .
The fact they are denying they ever knew is categorically false .
”

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are understood to have sent legal letters to society magazine Tatler after it published a story claiming the Duchess had been left exhausted as a result of Harry and Meghan withdrawing from Royal duties.
According to The Mail on Sunday, William and Kate have sent letters to the magazine demanding it removes its profile of the duchess headlined ‘Catherine the Great’.
Kensington Palace issued a statement on the article last week saying it “contained a swathe of inaccuracies and false representations”.
The Mail on Sunday said the palace is “furious” about claims that Kate feels “exhausted and trapped” by the increased workload following Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back.
‘Extremely cruel’
The article, written by author Anna Pasternak, also makes reference to the eating disorders suffered by William’s mother Princess Diana, saying: “Kate has become perilously thin, just like – some point out – Princes Diana.”
The Mail quoted a Royal source as saying: “That is such an extremely cruel and wounding barb. It’s disgusting. It’s sexist and woman-shaming at its very worst.
“The piece is full of lies. There is no truth to their claim that the Duchess feels overwhelmed with work, nor that the Duke is obsessed with Carole Middleton. It’s preposterous and downright wrong.”
The Tatler article cited a source as saying: “Kate is furious about the larger workload. She feels exhausted and trapped.”
Royal engagements
However, the official record of Royal engagements suggests the couple have done a similar number of jobs from January to March as they did in the same period last year, while Kate has only done 29 this year compared to 35 in 2019.
Kensington Palace said in a statement issued after the article was originally published: “This story contains a swathe of inaccuracies and false misrepresentations which were not put to Kensington Palace prior to publication.”
Tatler said in a statement after Kensington Palace raised its concerns last week that its editor in chief Richard Dennen stood behind Anna Pasternak’s reporting and her sources.
It said: “’Kensington Palace knew we were running the “Catherine the Great” cover months ago and we asked them to work together on it. The fact they are denying they ever knew is categorically false.”
Tatler did not respond to a Mail on Sunday request for a comment. Kensington Palace declined to comment when approached by i.


inews--2020-05-31--Captain Tobias: 9-year-old boy with cerebral palsy walks marathon to fundraise for local hospital

Captain Tobias : 9-year-old boy with cerebral palsy walks marathon to fundraise for local hospital Tobias Weller was praised by the likes of Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and Dan Walker Dubbed Captain Tobias by supporters , Tobias Weller was described as `` incredible '' and `` an inspiration '' by celebrities and sports stars , who sent him messages of support ahead of the final leg of his journey .
The young fundraiser has so far raised more than £50,000 for Sheffield Children 's Hospital and Paces School by walking the 26.2 miles - or 42,195 metres - over 70 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tobias finished the challenge on Sunday to cheers from the whole street , which has turned out to support him throughout the challenge .
Nine-year-old Tobias Weller , from Sheffield , who has cerebral palsy and autism ( Photo : PA ) Tobias said he felt `` magnificent '' that he had finished the walk and `` chuffed to bits '' that he had raised so much money .
`` I ca n't believe I completed a marathon .
It 's just awesome , '' he said as he completed the challenge '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clap and cheer for me and getting stronger and stronger every day is such a good feeling . ''
Tobias 's mother , Ruth Garbutt , said they were going to continue walking and would now aim to reach 50km .
She said : `` He 's done really well .
He 's tried so hard all the way through .
He 's really achieved a massive goal .
I 'm bursting with pride for my little boy .
He 's just magnificent . ''
The money raised by Tobias , who also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Hospital Charity through its emergency Covid-19 appeal and Paces School , a non-maintained special school where the ethos is on children being challenged to reach their full potential .
Ruth Liu , headteacher at the school , said the money would be used to help build a new `` state-of-the-art '' facility .
She said : `` It 's absolutely tremendous .
Such an aspirational target he set himself and just very slowly and methodically he 's worked his way through it with sheer determination , and it 's an absolutely fantastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him . ''
Abbie Pervin , regional fundraising manager at The Children 's Hospital Charity , added : `` He thoroughly deserves all of the well wishes that he has received and the money he has raised will help thousands of children and families who depend on Sheffield Children 's .
Thank you Captain Tobias . ''

A nine-year-old boy with cerebral palsy has completed his “ginormous challenge” to walk a marathon using a walker to help raise funds for a local hospital.
Dubbed Captain Tobias by supporters, Tobias Weller was described as “incredible” and “an inspiration” by celebrities and sports stars, who sent him messages of support ahead of the final leg of his journey.
The young fundraiser has so far raised more than £50,000 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital and Paces School by walking the 26.2 miles – or 42,195 metres – over 70 days on the street outside his home.
Tobias finished the challenge on Sunday to cheers from the whole street, which has turned out to support him throughout the challenge.
Victory walk
Police closed off the Sheffield road as neighbours hung bunting and balloons for the final 750m of his marathon fundraising effort.
Tobias said he felt “magnificent” that he had finished the walk and “chuffed to bits” that he had raised so much money.
“I can’t believe I completed a marathon. It’s just awesome,” he said as he completed the challenge” “I love it when my neighbours clap and cheer for me and getting stronger and stronger every day is such a good feeling.”
Tobias’s mother, Ruth Garbutt, said they were going to continue walking and would now aim to reach 50km.
She said: “He’s done really well. He’s tried so hard all the way through. He’s really achieved a massive goal. I’m bursting with pride for my little boy. He’s just magnificent.”
Funding for new care facilities
Earlier, Olympic heptathlon champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, professional footballer Esme Morgan and BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker sent Tobias video messages wishing him luck.
Dame Jessica said told him “you are absolutely incredible”, while Mr Walked described Tobias as an “absolute superstar”.
The money raised by Tobias, who also has autism, will help The Children’s Hospital Charity through its emergency Covid-19 appeal and Paces School, a non-maintained special school where the ethos is on children being challenged to reach their full potential.
Ruth Liu, headteacher at the school, said the money would be used to help build a new “state-of-the-art” facility.
She said: “It’s absolutely tremendous. Such an aspirational target he set himself and just very slowly and methodically he’s worked his way through it with sheer determination, and it’s an absolutely fantastic achievement. We’re so proud of him.”
Abbie Pervin, regional fundraising manager at The Children’s Hospital Charity, added: “He thoroughly deserves all of the well wishes that he has received and the money he has raised will help thousands of children and families who depend on Sheffield Children’s. Thank you Captain Tobias.”
You can donate to Captain Tobias’ Just Giving page here.


inews--2020-05-31--Coronavirus effect: UK cancer charities facing 'devastating' drop in income

Exclusive : Falls of up to 50 per cent will lead to cancellation of clinical trials and research as impact could be felt for a generation .
Cancer Research UK - which alone accounts for almost 50 per cent of all cancer research in the UK - has already been forced to make £44m in cuts to its research spending and expects to see a 20 to 25 per cent decline in fundraising income this financial year .
`` We have taken steps to try and mitigate the impact , such as putting 60 per cent of our staff on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical research charities , we are very unlikely to benefit from the financial support Government announced for charities last month .
“ We are absolutely determined to continue our research to create better treatments for tomorrow .
Now more than ever , we really need Government support , as well as help from the public to be able to continue funding our life-saving work.
” The pandemic has had a `` huge impact '' on Bowel Cancer UK with more than half of the charity 's staff put on furlough leave .
Chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re a tiny charity working towards a future where nobody dies of bowel cancer – which is the UK ’ s second biggest cancer killer - and our income has fallen from a cliff edge practically overnight .
We ’ re sadly anticipating losing up to 50 per cent of our income , equivalent to around £2m to £2.5m for this year alone . ''
The charities are in dire straits at a time when their help is needed more than ever .
This week Macmillan warned that nearly 2,000 people with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week during the pandemic as the UK faces a `` ticking time bomb '' due to Covid-19 .
Cancer charities rely heavily on their shops for income but the lockdown closures have had a huge impact on their income .
( Photo : BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images ) Claire Rowney , Executive Director of Fundraising , Marketing and Communications at Macmillan , said : “ This is an unprecedented time of crisis for charities .
Many people are also facing their own financial uncertainty and may be less able to give money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and uncertain period for all of us .
“ We are doing everything we can to limit the impact of this on our services and our number one priority is to continue to support people with cancer in every way we can .
We urgently need support from the British public so we can continue to provide the vital emotional , financial or clinical support that cancer patients rely on . ''
She said : `` The impact would be devastating , and it would be felt for a generation .
It would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our dream of a world where no one dies from blood cancer becomes reality .
The collapse in funding will mean clinical trials are cancelled , as laboratories have been closed and equipment repurposed to fight Covid-19 , research into new treatments curtailed and money for specialist cancer researchers no longer available . ''
Marie Curie could lose up to a third of its income as its shops have been forced to close .
It is reliant on donations from the public to survive - every week the charity needs to raise £2.5m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people who require nursing and hospice care .
Fiona Chilton , Head of Mass Participation Fundraising at Marie Curie , said : “ As the demand for our services has risen , the cost of running the charity has also increased – we have had to innovate how we support our beneficiaries and have been impacted by having to pay more for essential equipment , such as PPE supplies .
`` The public may be looking forward to the lock-down being eased but the long-term impacts of the Coronavirus crisis will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need the public to get behind us in the same way they have got behind the key workers and the NHS.
” Medium sized charities have also been badly hit by the pandemic .
Lymphoma Action , the only UK charity dedicated to lymphoma , the UK ’ s fifth most common cancer and the most common type of blood cancer , with just under 20,000 people being diagnosed every year , has had to stop some projects completely and `` scale back '' others .
Cancer referrals have dropped by almost two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Christopher Furlong/Getty ) Chief executive Ropinder Gill said : “ Our priority is to raise emergency funding now , both to safeguard our core services but also to prepare us as much as possible for 2021 and the years after which , by all accounts , will be very difficult .
We are very anxious about the medium and longer term impact on our services and we know that many charities , like us , are trying to plan in the face of great uncertainty . ''
Up to 50 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foundation is funding has been paused , delayed or stopped to date which the charity said could mean delays to potentially life-saving therapies and therefore avoidable deaths .
All the charities are expected to launch fresh appeals in the coming weeks as they attempt to make up the shortfall .

The UK’s leading cancer charities are caught in a devastating financial crisis amid the coronavirus pandemic as their income has fallen by up to 50 per cent with chief executives saying the impact on research and treatment could be felt for a generation.
Cancer Research UK – which alone accounts for almost 50 per cent of all cancer research in the UK – has already been forced to make £44m in cuts to its research spending and expects to see a 20 to 25 per cent decline in fundraising income this financial year.
Michelle Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, told i: “There can be no doubt that this global pandemic is causing huge strain on charities and Cancer Research UK is being hit hard. Protecting our volunteers and our supporters by closing our shops and postponing many events will have huge implications for our fundraising.
“We have taken steps to try and mitigate the impact, such as putting 60 per cent of our staff on furlough. But along with many other medical research charities, we are very unlikely to benefit from the financial support Government announced for charities last month.
“We are absolutely determined to continue our research to create better treatments for tomorrow. Now more than ever, we really need Government support, as well as help from the public to be able to continue funding our life-saving work.”
Loss of public fundraising
Macmillan Cancer Support faces a “35 to 50 per cent” fall in its annual income of £235.7m and Breast Cancer Now will suffer “at least” a 25 per cent drop. Kidney Cancer UK will see a 40 per cent drop largely due to the near total loss of public fundraising and casual street donations due to the lockdown.
The pandemic has had a “huge impact” on Bowel Cancer UK with more than half of the charity’s staff put on furlough leave. Chief executive Genevieve Edwards said: “We’re a tiny charity working towards a future where nobody dies of bowel cancer – which is the UK’s second biggest cancer killer – and our income has fallen from a cliff edge practically overnight. We’re sadly anticipating losing up to 50 per cent of our income, equivalent to around £2m to £2.5m for this year alone.”
The charities are in dire straits at a time when their help is needed more than ever. This week Macmillan warned that nearly 2,000 people with cancer are going undiagnosed or untreated every week during the pandemic as the UK faces a “ticking time bomb” due to Covid-19.
Cancer screening has also been effectively paused across the UK with evidence that it has resulted in a drop in the number of people going to their GP with symptoms of cancer. Calls to charity helplines have surged as people desperately seek help and information.
Claire Rowney, Executive Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at Macmillan, said: “This is an unprecedented time of crisis for charities. Many people are also facing their own financial uncertainty and may be less able to give money to charity. It is a difficult and uncertain period for all of us.
“We are doing everything we can to limit the impact of this on our services and our number one priority is to continue to support people with cancer in every way we can. We urgently need support from the British public so we can continue to provide the vital emotional, financial or clinical support that cancer patients rely on.”
Gemma Peters, Chief Executive of Blood Cancer UK, said the last few months have been “the most difficult period in our 60-year history” and that regaining lost ground will be difficult.
She said: “The impact would be devastating, and it would be felt for a generation. It would mean that thousands more people die before our dream of a world where no one dies from blood cancer becomes reality. The collapse in funding will mean clinical trials are cancelled, as laboratories have been closed and equipment repurposed to fight Covid-19, research into new treatments curtailed and money for specialist cancer researchers no longer available.”
Reliant on donations
Marie Curie could lose up to a third of its income as its shops have been forced to close. It is reliant on donations from the public to survive – every week the charity needs to raise £2.5m to care for the tens of thousands of people who require nursing and hospice care.
Fiona Chilton, Head of Mass Participation Fundraising at Marie Curie, said: “As the demand for our services has risen, the cost of running the charity has also increased – we have had to innovate how we support our beneficiaries and have been impacted by having to pay more for essential equipment, such as PPE supplies.
“Our ability to fundraise is seriously compromised. We had to cancel our flagship fundraising campaign in March, our events have been put on hold and we’ve had to close our shops.
“The public may be looking forward to the lock-down being eased but the long-term impacts of the Coronavirus crisis will continue to impact our fundraising income. We need the public to get behind us in the same way they have got behind the key workers and the NHS.”
Projects stopped
Medium sized charities have also been badly hit by the pandemic. Lymphoma Action, the only UK charity dedicated to lymphoma, the UK’s fifth most common cancer and the most common type of blood cancer, with just under 20,000 people being diagnosed every year, has had to stop some projects completely and “scale back” others.
Chief executive Ropinder Gill said: “Our priority is to raise emergency funding now, both to safeguard our core services but also to prepare us as much as possible for 2021 and the years after which, by all accounts, will be very difficult. We are very anxious about the medium and longer term impact on our services and we know that many charities, like us, are trying to plan in the face of great uncertainty.”
Up to 50 per cent of the clinical research the British Lung Foundation is funding has been paused, delayed or stopped to date which the charity said could mean delays to potentially life-saving therapies and therefore avoidable deaths. All the charities are expected to launch fresh appeals in the coming weeks as they attempt to make up the shortfall.
Prostate Cancer UK said the direct impact of postponements to all face-to-face fundraising events combined with the indirect impact of the recession is likely to stretch well beyond the current financial year.
Chief executive Angela Culhane said: “We’ve had to take incredibly difficult decisions, making substantial expenditure savings, asking our people either to reduce their working hours or take furlough, and now, having looked beyond the short term, needing to propose job losses to reduce our people costs by around 30 per cent, so that our life-saving work is secured for the longer term.
“These measures, whilst extremely painful right now, will help Prostate Cancer UK come out of this in the best shape to continue our work towards a future where lives aren’t limited by this disease.”
Nick Turkentine, the chief executive of Kidney Cancer UK, said: “Kidney Cancer UK is currently experiencing a devastating drop in its income from fundraising and casual street donations from the public. This at a time when demand on our free services are experiencing a 40 per cent rise in demand but a 90 per cent drop in public fundraising and casual online and street donations due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Many charities will have to reinvent the way they collect donations as the ‘new normal’ emerges or they will not survive.”


inews--2020-05-31--Coronavirus impact: 'This is the greatest threat the cancer charity sector has ever faced'

Coronavirus impact : 'This is the greatest threat the cancer charity sector has ever faced' The Covid-19 outbreak has led to many people ’ s cancer treatment being paused or delayed , with thousands of people missing out on help .
The outbreak has led to many people ’ s cancer treatment being paused or delayed , an extremely worrying drop in the number of people being referred to see a cancer specialist , thousands of screening appointments being cancelled and some clinical trials being paused .
We have never seen a time where those affected by breast cancer and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reassurance , support , clear and trusted information , and hope for the future .
In particular , many women with incurable secondary breast cancer are experiencing or fearing considerable changes to their care or treatment options , and the level of anxiety , distress and fear that we ’ ve been hearing on our Helpline is unparalleled in recent years .
To everyone affected by breast cancer : we are here for you and we will be working tirelessly to support you the whole way through this crisis and beyond , whatever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need information or someone to talk to , our free Helpline is there for you on 0808 800 6000 , or you can visit breastcancernow.org .
These really worrying impacts are by no means limited to breast cancer alone .
The need for support , for millions of people affected by a wide range of health conditions and issues , has never been greater .
Charities quite simply have to act now , but we must be very clear that this is the greatest threat the sector has ever faced and we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without emergency support of our own .
There are fears that cancer may be going undiagnosed due to coronavirus ( Photo : Getty ) At a time when we at Breast Cancer Now want to expand our services to meet the growing need for support and information ; at a time when so many people affected by breast cancer are feeling absolutely distressed , anxious , fearful and even hopeless ; at a time when we desperately need to advocate for patients and ensure we support and influence the NHS as it reacts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we as an organisation are facing one of our greatest threats and challenges to date .
While we are taking steps to mitigate the impact as much as we can , Covid-19 will have major implications for our income .
We expect to see at least a 25 per cent drop in our fundraising income this year as a result of the outbreak ― and if we are to continue our world-class research and life-changing support services , we urgently need support , now more than ever .
Without further financial support from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other organisations , we are extremely concerned that the impacts on the voluntary sector will be felt for years to come .

It’s extremely concerning to hear of the major impacts the pandemic continues to have on thousands of people affected by cancer.
The outbreak has led to many people’s cancer treatment being paused or delayed, an extremely worrying drop in the number of people being referred to see a cancer specialist, thousands of screening appointments being cancelled and some clinical trials being paused.
We have never seen a time where those affected by breast cancer and their families are in such need of reassurance, support, clear and trusted information, and hope for the future.
In particular, many women with incurable secondary breast cancer are experiencing or fearing considerable changes to their care or treatment options, and the level of anxiety, distress and fear that we’ve been hearing on our Helpline is unparalleled in recent years.
To everyone affected by breast cancer: we are here for you and we will be working tirelessly to support you the whole way through this crisis and beyond, whatever you’re facing. If you need information or someone to talk to, our free Helpline is there for you on 0808 800 6000, or you can visit breastcancernow.org.
Act now
These really worrying impacts are by no means limited to breast cancer alone. The need for support, for millions of people affected by a wide range of health conditions and issues, has never been greater. Charities quite simply have to act now, but we must be very clear that this is the greatest threat the sector has ever faced and we will not be able to meet this need without emergency support of our own.
At a time when we at Breast Cancer Now want to expand our services to meet the growing need for support and information; at a time when so many people affected by breast cancer are feeling absolutely distressed, anxious, fearful and even hopeless; at a time when we desperately need to advocate for patients and ensure we support and influence the NHS as it reacts to the pressures of the crisis, we as an organisation are facing one of our greatest threats and challenges to date.
Fundraising drop
While we are taking steps to mitigate the impact as much as we can, Covid-19 will have major implications for our income. We expect to see at least a 25 per cent drop in our fundraising income this year as a result of the outbreak ― and if we are to continue our world-class research and life-changing support services, we urgently need support, now more than ever.
Without further financial support from the Government for cancer charities and many other organisations, we are extremely concerned that the impacts on the voluntary sector will be felt for years to come.
Baroness Delyth Morgan, Chief Executive at Breast Cancer Now


inews--2020-05-31--Turn our towns into open-air cafes by giving restaurants and bars the right to spill out into street

Turn our towns into open-air cafes by giving restaurants and bars the right to spill out into streets, MPs urge Government

Turn our towns into open-air cafes by giving restaurants and bars the right to spill out into streets , MPs urge Government Exclusive : A cross-party group of MPs has written to Robert Jenrick calling for an easing of licensing laws Customers at a socially distanced cafe in Australia , where the hospitality industry is already getting back on its feet ( Photo : Cameron Spencer/Getty Images ) British towns and cities should be turned into open-air cafes as the national lockdown is eased , MPs have said .
The proposal would see restaurants , bars and pubs allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streets and other outdoor spaces .
The hospitality industry has warned that social distancing measures could make it impossible to reopen profitably .
Keeping diners and drinkers two metres away from each other means most the capacity of most outlets will be at best half of normal .
Allowing greater use of public outdoor space would help to make up for that .
A group of 17 MPs from the Liberal Democrats , Labour and Greens have written to the Communities Secretary , Robert Jenrick , asking him to relax the current laws @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operate .
They said : `` The Government must allow businesses to place tables and chairs outside premises , provided that they have local authority consent and that this does not cause an obstruction to people with reduced mobility . ''
Many cities and towns have already banned cars from certain roads in order to encourage cycling and walking .
Mr Jenrick has previously introduced emergency rules allowing more businesses to provide takeaways in order to prevent the hospitality industry collapsing .
Lib Dem MP Wera Hobhouse , who co-ordinated the cross-party letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , pubs and hotels are facing financial hardship because of the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic .
I fear for the economic impact for communities across the country , particularly the loss of people ’ s livelihoods .
MPs have sent a letter ask Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick to ease restrictions on the hospitality sector ( Photo : PIPPA FOWLES/10 Downing Street/AFP via Getty Images ) '' The Government must urgently resolve the gaps in their plans , including addressing social distancing requirements across the hospitality sector by embracing a new street cafe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use nearby streets and other open-air spaces would give confidence to both businesses and customers . ''
Kathryn Davis , the CEO of Visit Bath , added : `` Everyone is having to rethink their operation given existing guidance on social spacing and it is imperative to do what we can to support them .
Simple changes like those being proposed could be the difference between survival and closure . ''
Ministers are planning to allow cafes and restaurants to make more use of outdoor space by setting up market-style stalls to sell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much less easily outside than it does in confined spaces .

British towns and cities should be turned into open-air cafes as the national lockdown is eased, MPs have said.
The proposal would see restaurants, bars and pubs allowed to put out tables and chairs in closed streets and other outdoor spaces. The hospitality industry has warned that social distancing measures could make it impossible to reopen profitably.
Keeping diners and drinkers two metres away from each other means most the capacity of most outlets will be at best half of normal. Allowing greater use of public outdoor space would help to make up for that.
A group of 17 MPs from the Liberal Democrats, Labour and Greens have written to the Communities Secretary, Robert Jenrick, asking him to relax the current laws on how food and drink businesses can operate.
They said: “The Government must allow businesses to place tables and chairs outside premises, provided that they have local authority consent and that this does not cause an obstruction to people with reduced mobility.”
‘New culture’
Many cities and towns have already banned cars from certain roads in order to encourage cycling and walking. Mr Jenrick has previously introduced emergency rules allowing more businesses to provide takeaways in order to prevent the hospitality industry collapsing.
Lib Dem MP Wera Hobhouse, who co-ordinated the cross-party letter, told i: “Countless restaurants, pubs and hotels are facing financial hardship because of the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. I fear for the economic impact for communities across the country, particularly the loss of people’s livelihoods.
“The Government must urgently resolve the gaps in their plans, including addressing social distancing requirements across the hospitality sector by embracing a new street cafe culture. Temporarily allowing these businesses to use nearby streets and other open-air spaces would give confidence to both businesses and customers.”
‘Simple changes’
Kathryn Davis, the CEO of Visit Bath, added: “Everyone is having to rethink their operation given existing guidance on social spacing and it is imperative to do what we can to support them. Simple changes like those being proposed could be the difference between survival and closure.”
Ministers are planning to allow cafes and restaurants to make more use of outdoor space by setting up market-style stalls to sell their wares. Scientists believe coronavirus spreads much less easily outside than it does in confined spaces.


inews--2020-06-01--Black Lives Matter fist symbol: The meaning and history of the Black Power raised fist salute explai

Black Lives Matter fist symbol: The meaning and history of the Black Power raised fist salute explained

Black Lives Matter fist symbol : The meaning and history of the Black Power raised fist salute explained The raised , clenched fist has become a symbol of the Black Lives Matter movement .
The protestors were seen with raised clench fists , which is now a symbol used after every example of police brutality .
This brutality disproportionately affects African Americans .
The raised fist has become a symbol of the Black Lives Matter movement .
What is the history of the black power fist ?
At first it was not exclusively used in relation to people of African @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experiencing any form of oppression , to reject discriminatory behaviour .
When the Black Panther Party was founded in 1966 by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale to challenge police brutality against the African American community , the black power fist was repeatedly used as a symbol of black liberation .
In an iconic moment at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics Games , the American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos , who both received medals , each donned a black glove and raised their fists while the national anthem played during the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carlos raised their fists in a civil rights gesture on the Olympic medal stand in Mexico City ( Photo : AFP via Getty Images ) The United States Olympic Committee said the pair had violated `` the basic standards of good manners and sportsmanship , which are so highly valued in the United States '' , but later Mr Smith declared it a `` human rights salute '' .
In reference to the subversive gesture , Mr Carlos wrote in his book The John Carlos Story : `` Hey , world , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think it is for blacks and other people of colour .
Just because we have USA on our chest does not mean everything is peachy keen and we are living large . ''
Why is it the black lives matter logo ?

Following the horrific murder of George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis, protestors worldwide have taken the streets to demand justice.
Protestors in UK cities including London, Liverpool, Cardiff and Manchester have been heard chanting, “I can’t breathe,” the words Mr Floyd was filmed saying as he died while being restrained by a police officer.
Black Lives Matter has said: “We are doing this to place pressure on the American government and show that this is a worldwide issue.”
The protestors were seen with raised clench fists, a symbol that has become intertwined with the Black Lives Matter movement that has emerged in response to the disproportionate police brutality experienced by people of colour.
What is the history of the black power fist?
The raising of a closed fist as symbol of black power has a long history.
At first it was not exclusively used in relation to people of African descent, but by marginalised groups worldwide experiencing any form of oppression, to reject discriminatory behaviour.
The brandished fist was a rebuff of unjust authority and an act of collective resistance.
When the Black Panther Party was founded in 1966 by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale to challenge police brutality against the African American community, the black power fist was repeatedly used as a symbol of black liberation.
Photos and video footage of the Black Panthers saluting each other with raised fists at conventions, meetings and rallies solidified the symbol as synonymous with the fight for black civil rights.
In an iconic moment at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics Games, the American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos, who both received medals, each donned a black glove and raised their fists while the national anthem played during the medal ceremony.
The United States Olympic Committee said the pair had violated “the basic standards of good manners and sportsmanship, which are so highly valued in the United States”, but later Mr Smith declared it a “human rights salute”.
In reference to the subversive gesture, Mr Carlos wrote in his book The John Carlos Story: “Hey, world, the United States is not like you might think it is for blacks and other people of colour. Just because we have USA on our chest does not mean everything is peachy keen and we are living large.”
Years later, when the anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela was released from prison in 1990 – after spending 27 years in jail – he raised a fist in triumph alongside his wife.
The black power fist has also been adopted by allies of the black community, including feminist activist Gloria Steinem and politician Bernie Saunders.
Why is it the black lives matter logo?
The Black Lives Matter movement campaigns against violence and the systemic racism directed towards black people, and was co-founded in the summer of 2013 by Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi.
The raised clenched fist isn’t the only symbol brandished by the movement, but it was adopted following the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri in August 2014.
The unarmed black teenager was shot dead by white police who claimed he was acting in self-defence, and the black power fist was used to represent the “hands up, don’t shoot” pose.
It’s been used ever since both in social media posts and at rallies, as a symbol of resistance and defiance, and was created as an emoji in 2015.


inews--2020-06-01--Schools reopening: Children's Commissioner Anne Longfield says schools should stay open to let stude

Schools reopening: Children's Commissioner Anne Longfield says schools should stay open to let students study over summer

Schools reopening : Children 's Commissioner Anne Longfield says schools should stay open to let students study over summer However Commissioner says she is 'not advocating an endless school term' The Commissioner has called on the Government to set up summer classes in July and August to help children catch up on work , with some facing up to six months off school depending on when they are able to return .
'We should make the most of school buildings' Children 's Commissioner Anne Longfield has called for schools to remain open over the summer .
( Photo : Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday morning she said : `` I want schools to be open for children to be able to play with each other have childcare , have positive things to do in the summer and some learning too . ''
`` So I think this is an opportunity to move into that much more in many areas .
I 'm not advocating that there should just be an endless school term , that actually teachers should have to stay in the classroom , but I do think that we should make the most of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ youth workers , sports coaches and others who can really make the most of that asset and give children the kind of safe space to be with each other , socialise and but also learn new skills as well . ''
Asked if this meant that teachers would not need to be involved , she said : `` there may be some teachers who want to do that , supply teachers , for instance , may be interested in taking part or indeed those that are training and have n't had placements , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more about those individuals who have real skills in working with children and can make the most of that period . ''
Children of essential workers eat lunch in segregated positions at Kempsey Primary School in Worcester ( Photo : PA ) It is part of a wider easing of measures that will also see groups of up to six people allowed to meet in public places or private gardens and outdoor markets and car showrooms reopen .
It comes as several scientists have criticised the move suggesting it is too early to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rapidly rise again .
Ministers insist the time is right to ease the lockdown because the Government has met its five tests to do so and the rate of infection , or R value , has been consistently below one .
The new rules in England allow for families and friends to meet up for picnics and barbecues and travel freely around the country , so long as they do not stay anywhere overnight that is not their primary home .
The Government has prioritised the return of primary school pupils for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reasons ( Photo : Isabel Infantes / AFP ) Primary school children in England in Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 will return to class as the Government and education unions continue to fight over whether it is safe to do so .
Parents are also reluctant to send their children back , according to the National Foundation for Educational Research , after its survey of more than 1,200 school leaders found headteachers were expecting 46 per cent of families to keep pupils at home .

Children’s Commissioner Anne Longfield has called for schools to remain open over the summer break to allow children to catch up with work they have missed due to the Covid-19 lockdown.
The Commissioner has called on the Government to set up summer classes in July and August to help children catch up on work, with some facing up to six months off school depending on when they are able to return.
Writing in The Daily Telegraph, she said summer schools could help the “most deprived” and “provide activities of all kinds, meals and potentially some learning too”.
‘We should make the most of school buildings’
Speaking to Sky News on Monday morning she said: “I want schools to be open for children to be able to play with each other have childcare, have positive things to do in the summer and some learning too.”
“So I think this is an opportunity to move into that much more in many areas. I’m not advocating that there should just be an endless school term, that actually teachers should have to stay in the classroom, but I do think that we should make the most of school buildings.
“And bring together youth workers, sports coaches and others who can really make the most of that asset and give children the kind of safe space to be with each other, socialise and but also learn new skills as well.”
Asked if this meant that teachers would not need to be involved, she said: “there may be some teachers who want to do that, supply teachers, for instance, may be interested in taking part or indeed those that are training and haven’t had placements,
“But I think this is much more about those individuals who have real skills in working with children and can make the most of that period.”
Some schools return
Pupils will begin to return to school and families will be reunited on Monday as major changes are made to lockdown restrictions in England.
It is part of a wider easing of measures that will also see groups of up to six people allowed to meet in public places or private gardens and outdoor markets and car showrooms reopen.
But Government leaders have stressed social distancing measures must stay in place, particularly staying two metres apart from someone outside your household.
It comes as several scientists have criticised the move suggesting it is too early to lift restrictions and could cause coronavirus infections to rapidly rise again.
Ministers insist the time is right to ease the lockdown because the Government has met its five tests to do so and the rate of infection, or R value, has been consistently below one.
The new rules in England allow for families and friends to meet up for picnics and barbecues and travel freely around the country, so long as they do not stay anywhere overnight that is not their primary home.
Parents reluctant to send kids back
Primary school children in England in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 will return to class as the Government and education unions continue to fight over whether it is safe to do so.
Parents are also reluctant to send their children back, according to the National Foundation for Educational Research, after its survey of more than 1,200 school leaders found headteachers were expecting 46 per cent of families to keep pupils at home.
Findings from a recent PA news agency survey of local authorities show that more than 20 councils across England – predominantly in the north – are also advising schools not to open to more pupils this week.
Some of those polled have claimed that the NHS Test and Trace system will not be “robust enough” to allay fears over the potential spreading of the virus due to difficulty maintaining social distancing.
Additional reporting by Press Association.


inews--2020-06-01--When will libraries open? Latest UK lockdown news on public libraries reopening - and potential new

When will libraries open? Latest UK lockdown news on public libraries reopening - and potential new rules explained

When will libraries open ?
Latest UK lockdown news on public libraries reopening - and potential new rules explained Some businesses , vanues and services have begun the process of reopening their doors to the public as lockdown restrictions slowly lift This is what you need to know about libraries reopening ( Photo : Shutterstock ) In March , libraries were forced to close around the country as part of the governments efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus .
With phase two of lockdown beginining for England , this is what the government has said about libraries being able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
According to the UK government 's roadmap to lift lockdown restrictions in England , venues such as libraries will open in step three of the plan .
The document explains : “ The ambition at this step is to open at least some of the remaining businesses and premises that have been required to close , including personal care ( such as hairdressers and beauty salons ) , hospitality ( such as food service providers , pubs and accommodations ) , public places ( such as places of worship ) and leisure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Venues that reopen will be required to adhere to Covid-19 secure guidelines to ensure the safety of staff and visitors .
Can I use any library services now ?
When lockdown restrictions began to ease , the government released a list of businesses and venues that “ must remain closed ” , with libraries included in the list .
There are some exceptions to this rule though , with the government stating : “ Digital library services and those where orders are taken electronically , by telephone or by post ( for example @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Many libraries offer online services - you can find out more about what your library offers by signing up .
What is the government doing to help libraries ?
Earlier in May , the government unveiled new ministerial-led task forces that have been created to help plan how closed sectors can reopen safely .
The announcement said : “ These task forces will be crucial to the reopening of Britain 's economy and each one will lead on developing new Covid-19 secure guidelines for the reopening of public places and businesses , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do so.
” One of the task forces , managed by the Department for Culture , Media and Sport , looks after libraries , as well as other recreation and leisure facilities .

In March, libraries were forced to close around the country as part of the governments efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus.
With phase two of lockdown beginining for England, this is what the government has said about libraries being able to open its doors again to readers.
When will libraries reopen?
According to the UK government’s roadmap to lift lockdown restrictions in England, venues such as libraries will open in step three of the plan.
The document explains: “The ambition at this step is to open at least some of the remaining businesses and premises that have been required to close, including personal care (such as hairdressers and beauty salons), hospitality (such as food service providers, pubs and accommodations), public places (such as places of worship) and leisure facilities (like cinemas).”
Libraries are included in these services mentioned.
This step, according to the government, will be “no earlier than 4 July”.
Venues that reopen will be required to adhere to Covid-19 secure guidelines to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.
Can I use any library services now?
When lockdown restrictions began to ease, the government released a list of businesses and venues that “must remain closed”, with libraries included in the list.
There are some exceptions to this rule though, with the government stating: “Digital library services and those where orders are taken electronically, by telephone or by post (for example no-contact Home Library Services) may continue.”
Many libraries offer online services – you can find out more about what your library offers by signing up.
You can do this via the government website here.
What is the government doing to help libraries?
Earlier in May, the government unveiled new ministerial-led task forces that have been created to help plan how closed sectors can reopen safely.
The announcement said: “These task forces will be crucial to the reopening of Britain’s economy and each one will lead on developing new Covid-19 secure guidelines for the reopening of public places and businesses, where and when it is safe to do so.”
One of the task forces, managed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, looks after libraries, as well as other recreation and leisure facilities.
Headed up by Oliver Dowden, the task force will help develop safe ways for libraries and other creative venues to operate, and feed back issues and concerns to the government.


inews--2020-06-01--How safe is it to visit someone's garden as UK lockdown rules ease, according to scientists

How safe is it to visit someone 's garden as UK lockdown rules ease , according to scientists The risk of transmitting coronavirus is low , but not zero , say experts What are the new rules ?
`` You should not use plates or utensils that someone from another house has touched - either bring your own or ensure you have thoroughly cleaned them before using .
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds and use disposable towels if possible , '' says the Government , adding that people from another household should not go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During Sunday 's Downing Street press conference , she said : `` Where we are seeing that Government is easing measures , the public really , really need to stick to those messages , and it is not just about what it is possible to do , it 's about what it is sensible to do , and what is sensible to do is have as few interactions as possible as you can with other people in all settings . ''
More than two people are allowed to meet outside in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rules eased ?
Dr Muge Cevik , clinical academic fellow in infectious diseases and medical virology at the University of St Andrews , previously told i : `` People need to keep in mind that not all outdoor activities are created equal .
For instance , passing by someone or [ a ] brief conversation does not constitute the same risk as having a party [ or ] gathering with friends and family [ who are ] sharing food . ''
Is it safe to go through someone 's house to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released through coughs or sneezes , which then pass onto others and lead to infection .
But people can also emit infectious viral particles , called aerosols , through talking and breathing .
According to Harvard Medical School 's Coronavirus Resource Center , these can last in the air for up to three hours and be inhaled by others .
Commenting on walking through someone 's house to get to their garden or bathroom , Dr Pankhania says : `` With people visiting each other the risk is two-fold : you might get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or indirectly , whereby that infectious person secretes droplets on a surface , say a kitchen surface , and then your hand goes on the said kitchen surface and then you introduce the virus to your nose and mouth .

From Monday, groups of up to six people from different households in England are allowed to meet in private gardens or outdoor spaces as long as they stick to social-distancing rules.
In Wales, people from two households will be able to meet outdoors, including a private garden, as long as they do not travel more than five miles and maintain social distancing.
Groups of eight people can meet in parks or gardens in Scotland – but only if they are members from just two separate households.
Many may welcome the continued easing of lockdown restrictions, particularly as summer approaches, but some have expressed concern that it may be too soon and that coronavirus still presents a significant threat.
While there is agreement that the likelihood of Covid-19 transmission is lower in outdoor spaces than inside, scientists say that passing through someone’s home to get to their garden or bathroom is not completely risk-free.
What are the new rules?
Under the new rules, the Government has said people in England should only enter the home of another person if they need to access their garden or use their bathroom.
“Avoid touching surfaces and if you use the toilet wash your hands thoroughly, wipe down surfaces, use separate or paper towels and wash or dispose of them safely after use,” reads the guidance.
From today, in England, you will be allowed to meet up to five friends in public outdoor places or in your garden. This will be a moment of joy and relief for many. Please remember to keep 2 metres away from those you don’t live with, and wash your hands regularly. — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) June 1, 2020
It says that you should not allow people to meet inside your home or congregate in garages, sheds or cabins because the risk of transmitting coronavirus is higher in indoor spaces.
While picnics and barbecues are allowed in gardens, food and drink should only be passed between those who live in same household.
“You should not use plates or utensils that someone from another house has touched – either bring your own or ensure you have thoroughly cleaned them before using. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds and use disposable towels if possible,” says the Government, adding that people from another household should not go inside to help with the washing up.
Dr Jenny Harries, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, urged people to be “sensible” as the rules eased.
During Sunday’s Downing Street press conference, she said: “Where we are seeing that Government is easing measures, the public really, really need to stick to those messages, and it is not just about what it is possible to do, it’s about what it is sensible to do, and what is sensible to do is have as few interactions as possible as you can with other people in all settings.”
Why have the rules eased?
The decision to allow larger groups of people to meet outside is based on scientific evidence that there is a lower risk of spreading coronavirus outdoors than indoors.
Part of the reason is because there are higher levels of ventilation outside, meaning that infectious droplets released from an individual with Covid-19 are more likely to disperse and fall to the ground.
However, if people do not maintain social distancing rules, such as staying two metres away from someone from another household, or hand hygiene, there is still a risk of transmission.
Dr Muge Cevik, clinical academic fellow in infectious diseases and medical virology at the University of St Andrews, previously told i: “People need to keep in mind that not all outdoor activities are created equal. For instance, passing by someone or [a] brief conversation does not constitute the same risk as having a party [or] gathering with friends and family [who are] sharing food.”
Is it safe to go through someone’s house to get to the garden?
Despite the Government being clear that people should minimise their time in other people’s homes when visiting their garden or private outdoor space, scientists cannot rule out the risk of transmitting coronavirus – but it is low.
“We still have a high level of viral activity in the community,” says Dr Bharat Pankhania, a senior clinical lecturer at the University of Exeter Medical School.
Therefore it is entirely possible that a visitor may be an infectious case, meaning there is a chance they could “leave a trail of infectious droplets through somebody’s dwelling”, he says.
Droplets are usually released through coughs or sneezes, which then pass onto others and lead to infection. But people can also emit infectious viral particles, called aerosols, through talking and breathing. According to Harvard Medical School’s Coronavirus Resource Center, these can last in the air for up to three hours and be inhaled by others.
Commenting on walking through someone’s house to get to their garden or bathroom, Dr Pankhania says: “With people visiting each other the risk is two-fold: you might get a direct hit from an infectious person or indirectly, whereby that infectious person secretes droplets on a surface, say a kitchen surface, and then your hand goes on the said kitchen surface and then you introduce the virus to your nose and mouth.
“Whilst it is a low risk, it is not a zero risk.”
Dr Pankhania believes the lockdown restrictions are being relaxed prematurely and advises anyone who is planning to welcome someone from another household to their garden to ensure they the visitor does not have a current infection.
“Check and double check they haven’t had a recent illness, check that they haven’t got signs or symptoms of the coronavirus infection before meeting up, and maintain distancing and handwashing as an absolute minimum.”
Rowland Kao, a professor of veterinary epidemiology and data science at the University of Edinburgh, says that the risk associated with travelling through someone’s house might involve that person touching objects and surfaces.
“If passing through someone’s home does not involve close contact… with the occupants at that time, then the majority of risk will be associated with contact with objects and surfaces potentially contaminated with virus.
“Washing of hands and avoiding touching surfaces where possible should mitigate most of that extra risk,” says Prof Kao.


inews--2020-06-01--What shops can open today? UK lockdown rules explained - and when other shops are reopening

What shops can open today ?
UK lockdown rules explained - and when other shops are reopening The high street is set to re-open with certain non-essential shops allowed to resume trading if premises are 'Covid-secure' As the Government gradually eases certain lockdown restrictions , the high street is set to re-open with certain non-essential shops allowed to resume trading - albeit in accordance with new guidance and if premises are `` Covid-secure '' .
Speaking at the Downing Street press conference last week , Boris Johnson urged people to go to the shops to boost the economy , saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to discourage them from spending at all . ''
Helen Dickinson , chief executive of trade body the British Retail Consortium ( BRC ) , said : `` Safety is the fundamental concern for all retailers and they have been working hard to implement the necessary measures to operate safely over the past weeks .
`` Now that we know which shops can open and when , retailers can begin communicating their plans with their workforces and customers . ''
John Lewis said they are preparing for a phased reopening of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-essential shops could open again from June 15 ( Photo : PA ) From Monday June 1 , outdoor markets and car showrooms can re-open , as the risk of transmission of coronavirus `` is lower in these outdoor and more open spaces . ''
Most non-essential shops such as department stores and small independent shops remain closed , but will be able to reopen in England from June 15 , providing the government 's five tests for easing lockdown are met .
However , they will have to adhere to new guidelines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hygiene standards , to protect both shoppers and staff .
`` This will ensure there can be no doubt about what steps they should take . ''
Primark announced it will be reopening all its 153 stores in England on June 15 , whilst department store John Lewis will reopen 13 branches at first , and Next just 25 out of its 500 stores .
How will shopping be different ?
Cyclists ride past shuttered shops on Camden High Street , in north London .
Shopping destinations saw their largest ever decline in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home amid the coronavirus pandemic , according to new figures ( Photo : PA ) Shopping centres have been told they 're responsible for controlling queues in communal areas outside , and the number of people allowed into stores at any time will be restricted .
Social distancing is still in place , so perspex screens at tills and floor markings - as already seen in supermarkets - will feature in shops , to ensure people stay 2 metres apart .
The shoe shop Kurt Geiger has announced footwear will be put aside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a customer , whilst Waterstones will quarantine books for 72 hours after customers have touched them .

As the Government gradually eases certain lockdown restrictions, the high street is set to re-open with certain non-essential shops allowed to resume trading – albeit in accordance with new guidance and if premises are “Covid-secure”.
Speaking at the Downing Street press conference last week, Boris Johnson urged people to go to the shops to boost the economy, saying: “I’m certainly not going to discourage them from spending at all.”
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of trade body the British Retail Consortium (BRC), said: “Safety is the fundamental concern for all retailers and they have been working hard to implement the necessary measures to operate safely over the past weeks.
“Now that we know which shops can open and when, retailers can begin communicating their plans with their workforces and customers.”
However, these current guidelines for the reopening of shops only apply initially to England.
What shops open today?
From Monday June 1, outdoor markets and car showrooms can re-open, as the risk of transmission of coronavirus “is lower in these outdoor and more open spaces.”
Ikea will also be opening 19 of it’s stores today.
During the coronavirus lockdown, supermarkets, banks, corner shops, pharmacies and petrol stations remained open, with garden centres re-opening on May 13.
The closure of shops during lockdown has had a significant impact on the retail industry, with clothing outlets Oasis and Warehouse closing permanently, resulting in the loss of 1,800 jobs.
Debenhams also entered into administration for the second time in a year in April, forcing some of its branches to stay shut permanently.
Which shops remain closed?
Most non-essential shops such as department stores and small independent shops remain closed, but will be able to reopen in England from June 15, providing the government’s five tests for easing lockdown are met.
These include outlets selling clothes, toys, books and electronics, alongside tailors, indoor markets, photography studios and auction houses.
However, they will have to adhere to new guidelines to meet the necessary social distancing and hygiene standards, to protect both shoppers and staff.
Mr Johnson said: “Shops now have the time to implement this guidance before they reopen.”
“This will ensure there can be no doubt about what steps they should take.”
Primark announced it will be reopening all its 153 stores in England on June 15, whilst department store John Lewis will reopen 13 branches at first, and Next just 25 out of its 500 stores.
How will shopping be different?
It won’t feel quite like a return to normal, with new measures implemented to combat the spread of the virus.
Shopping centres have been told they’re responsible for controlling queues in communal areas outside, and the number of people allowed into stores at any time will be restricted.
Social distancing is still in place, so perspex screens at tills and floor markings – as already seen in supermarkets – will feature in shops, to ensure people stay 2 metres apart.
The shoe shop Kurt Geiger has announced footwear will be put aside for 24 hours if tried on by a customer, whilst Waterstones will quarantine books for 72 hours after customers have touched them.
People are also being encouraged to shop alone if possible. Stores are encouraged to discuss providing extra parking or bike racks with local authorities to dissuade people from using public transport.
Shops such as Marks and Spencers, and Ikea, have already said close-contact services such as clothes fitting and make-up are to remain suspended until further notice
Former Sainsbury’s boss Justin King has said he is “optimistic” about the future of high streets with social distancing measures in place, but believes shopping centres will face a tough period ahead.


inews--2020-06-01--Queer Eye season 5: Netflix release date, the Fab 5 cast and who they're helping in the new series

Queer Eye season 5 : Netflix release date , the Fab 5 cast and who they 're helping in the new series The Fab Five are back and ready to help elevate 10 more lives , this time in Philadelphia If you 're looking for positive , inclusive and heart-filled TV , no one does it quite like Queer Eye .
The Fab Five are returning for a fifth season on Netflix , with Bobby Berk , Karamo Brown , Tan France , Antoni Porowski and Jonathan Van Ness once again helping turn people 's lives around and helping them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out .
When is Queer Eye season five on Netflix ?
The season will be available from Friday 5 June , and there is more good news - there are more episodes than usual .
Where is it set ?
The entire season has been filmed in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania - the home of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall , where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed .
Queer Eye tends to film entire seasons in one or two states .
The first two seasons were filmed in Georgia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the border between Missouri and Kansas .
There was also a special Japanese series , released last year , which was mostly shot in Tokyo .
What can we expect ?
More of the same wholesome goodness .
The boys will help bring out the best in 10 lucky `` heroes '' , teaching them how to enhance every aspect of their lives .
Bobby is in charge of the interior design , Karamo is the culture expert who also helps with career advice and self-love , Tan has the fashion locked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the group and Jonathan is on hand for all grooming needs .
As always the show is about far more than just outward appearance , with the Fab Five teaching their subjects how to appreciate themselves better and grow as human beings .
The trailer for the season shows a clergyman who has come to Queer Eye for help .
`` I have struggled with my identity as a gay person .
I feel like I can ’ t be the kind of leader in the church that I could be , '' @ @ @

If you’re looking for positive, inclusive and heart-filled TV, no one does it quite like Queer Eye.
The Fab Five are returning for a fifth season on Netflix, with Bobby Berk, Karamo Brown, Tan France, Antoni Porowski and Jonathan Van Ness once again helping turn people’s lives around and helping them feel better both on the inside and out.
Here is everything you need to know…
When is Queer Eye season five on Netflix?
The season will be available from Friday 5 June, and there is more good news – there are more episodes than usual.
Season five will consist of 10 episodes, rather than the regular eight.
A sixth season has also been announced, which will film in Austin, Texas.
Where is it set?
The entire season has been filmed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – the home of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed.
Queer Eye tends to film entire seasons in one or two states. The first two seasons were filmed in Georgia, while seasons three and four flipped across the border between Missouri and Kansas.
There was also a special Japanese series, released last year, which was mostly shot in Tokyo.
What can we expect?
More of the same wholesome goodness. The boys will help bring out the best in 10 lucky “heroes”, teaching them how to enhance every aspect of their lives.
Bobby is in charge of the interior design, Karamo is the culture expert who also helps with career advice and self-love, Tan has the fashion locked down, Antoni is the chef of the group and Jonathan is on hand for all grooming needs.
As always the show is about far more than just outward appearance, with the Fab Five teaching their subjects how to appreciate themselves better and grow as human beings.
The trailer for the season shows a clergyman who has come to Queer Eye for help. “I have struggled with my identity as a gay person. I feel like I can’t be the kind of leader in the church that I could be,” he says.


inews--2020-06-01--Vicky McClure: 'I don't need the luxuries of Hollywood - I'm not so desperate to go there'

Vicky McClure : ' I do n't need the luxuries of Hollywood - I 'm not so desperate to go there' The actor stars in new Amazon Prime Video drama Alex Rider .
She talks about the show and missing Line of Duty during lockdown Last month , DCI Kate Fleming – the resolute copper played by Vicky McClure in BBC One ’ s Line of Duty – made an unexpected appearance online .
From a secret undercover location , she had a Zoom conference with Superintendent Ted Hastings ( Adrian Dunbar ) , her “ gaffer ” at AC-12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Martin Compston ) , to discuss a coded message which Ted thought might be from the show ’ s evasive master criminal , known only as H. “ PPE NHS ?
” exclaimed Ted .
“ Mother of God , what the blue blazes does that mean ?
” ( It was , of course , an appeal for the PPE campaign Asks For Masks . )
Sadly , that may be the only time we see Kate this year .
One of the myriad consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic has been the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Line of Duty , the highest-rated drama on British TV last year , with 11.4 million viewers tuning in to the first episode .
Filming on the sixth series was stalled just a few weeks into production in March .
McClure is best known for her role as Kate in Line of Duty ( Photo : BBC ) The dressed-down look chimes with McClure ’ s matter-of-fact approach to the business .
Despite now being one of the most in-demand actresses in the country , this is a woman who still modestly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m such a normal person in an industry that is so chaotic and crazy .
“ I am what I am and I can ’ t change it .
And I don ’ t want to change it !
I don ’ t need a trailer .
I don ’ t need to have the luxuries of Hollywood , which is why I ’ m probably not so desperate to get there.
” The impression of someone quite unaffected by fame is emphasised by the story that her fiancé , actor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McClure on Christmas Day 2017 after concealing the engagement ring in their teabag tin .
McClure ’ s breakthrough came in 2006 , when her long-term collaborator , the director Shane Meadows , cast her as Lol in his compelling This Is England .
Now 37 , she insists that although she often plays troubled characters , that does not reflect who she is in real life .
“ I ’ ve always been a happy-go-lucky person .
I haven ’ t got any dark tales .
I ’ m from a very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amazing childhood.
” McClure is the daughter of a hairdresser and a joiner , and grew up in Nottingham , where she still lives .
She reprised the role of Lol in Channel 4 ’ s TV sequels to the film , and her memorable performance in the 2010 series This Is England ’ 86 won her the Bafta , RTS and TV Choice awards for best actress .
The actors latest TV series sees her play Mrs Jones , mentor to spy in training Alex Rider ( Photo : Amazon Prime Video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so popular ?
“ I think the audience out there are way more intelligent than we give them credit for .
We don ’ t need to spoon-feed them .
They like to work things out for themselves .
They like to get things wrong and to get involved .
Also , it ’ s not a pretty show .
It ’ s gritty.
” Line of Duty has also allowed McClure to take her pick of roles and on Alex Rider , Mrs Jones ’ s relationship with Alex struck a real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ that relationship becomes less business-like and more nurturing .
She has a concern for his welfare that she wouldn ’ t feel if he were an adult in that situation .
“ To a degree , it ’ s motherly concern , but in the end I ’ d just say it ’ s human concern .
She doesn ’ t want to be his mum .
It ’ s just that he ’ s a child who has been put into positions that are very dangerous and part of the reason @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing .
So she feels an element of responsibility for him.
” McClure first found fame as Lol in Shane Meadows ' 2006 film This Is England ( Photo : Film4 )

Last month, DCI Kate Fleming – the resolute copper played by Vicky McClure in BBC One’s Line of Duty – made an unexpected appearance online. From a secret undercover location, she had a Zoom conference with Superintendent Ted Hastings (Adrian Dunbar), her “gaffer” at AC-12, and colleague DS Steve Arnott (Martin Compston), to discuss a coded message which Ted thought might be from the show’s evasive master criminal, known only as H. “PPE NHS?” exclaimed Ted. “Mother of God, what the blue blazes does that mean?” (It was, of course, an appeal for the PPE campaign Asks For Masks.)
Sadly, that may be the only time we see Kate this year. One of the myriad consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic has been the suspension of all television drama production, including Line of Duty, the highest-rated drama on British TV last year, with 11.4 million viewers tuning in to the first episode. Filming on the sixth series was stalled just a few weeks into production in March.
“It’s a massive blow for everybody. No matter what business you’re in, it’s tough not to go to work when that’s what we naturally do.”
Fortunately, then, McClure is starring in another gripping drama much sooner. Alex Rider, a new eight-part adaptation of the bestselling novels by Anthony Horowitz about a reluctant, yet brilliant teenage spy, arrives on Amazon Prime Video on Thursday.
Written by Guy Burt (The Bletchley Circle), the series centres on the schoolboy protagonist of the title. After his uncle Ian (Andrew Buchan, Broadchurch) dies in mysterious circumstances, Alex (Otto Farrant) is recruited, against his will, to work for The Department, a shadowy section of MI6 run by Blunt (Stephen Dillane, Game of Thrones).
Alex is soon flourishing under the sympathetic tutelage of Mrs Jones (McClure), his minder at The Department. Before you can say: “The name’s Rider, Alex Rider,” the teenager blossoms into an ingenious spy and goes undercover to investigate suspicious goings-on at Point Blanc, an academy in the French Alps for the difficult sons of billionaires.
The Alex Rider books are hugely popular, and have sold 19 million copies around the world. This year is the 20th anniversary of the publication of the first, Stormbreaker, which was adapted into a (not entirely successful) movie in 2006, starring Alex Pettyfer.
Crucially, the books have been credited with encouraging teenage boys to read novels, perhaps for the first time. As all broadcasters attempt to reach the elusive younger audience, this looks like a smart commission from Amazon Prime.
I meet McClure on the set of Alex Rider at the West London comprehensive doubling as the teenager’s school. Before filming, she comes over to chat in the converted classroom that is acting as a green room. She is sporting hair rollers (to hold her highlighted bouffant coiffure in place), white Converse trainers, a grey tracksuit top and blue tracksuit bottoms.
Read More Alan Carr: ‘I used to dress up as a blind man — I cringe at my old jokes now’
The dressed-down look chimes with McClure’s matter-of-fact approach to the business. Despite now being one of the most in-demand actresses in the country, this is a woman who still modestly maintains: “I just feel like I’m such a normal person in an industry that is so chaotic and crazy.
“I am what I am and I can’t change it. And I don’t want to change it! I don’t need a trailer. I don’t need to have the luxuries of Hollywood, which is why I’m probably not so desperate to get there.” The impression of someone quite unaffected by fame is emphasised by the story that her fiancé, actor and producer Johnny Owen, proposed to McClure on Christmas Day 2017 after concealing the engagement ring in their teabag tin.
McClure’s breakthrough came in 2006, when her long-term collaborator, the director Shane Meadows, cast her as Lol in his compelling This Is England. Now 37, she insists that although she often plays troubled characters, that does not reflect who she is in real life. “I’ve always been a happy-go-lucky person. I haven’t got any dark tales. I’m from a very normal, stable background and had an amazing childhood.”
McClure is the daughter of a hairdresser and a joiner, and grew up in Nottingham, where she still lives. She reprised the role of Lol in Channel 4’s TV sequels to the film, and her memorable performance in the 2010 series This Is England ’86 won her the Bafta, RTS and TV Choice awards for best actress.
She went on to land the role of Kate in Line of Duty in 2012. McClure adores the character, though admits that she finds one aspect of the role extremely demanding. “I think the biggest challenge for me is the lines.
“Sometimes the dialogue can be so complicated and you’ve just got to rattle it out as naturally as you possibly can. It’s in the title… ‘Lines of Duty’, as I call it now.”
What has made Line of Duty so popular? “I think the audience out there are way more intelligent than we give them credit for. We don’t need to spoon-feed them. They like to work things out for themselves. They like to get things wrong and to get involved. Also, it’s not a pretty show. It’s gritty.”
The phenomenal success of Line of Duty has given McClure a high profile (when she bumped into Kate Moss at a party, McClure recalls, “The first thing she said was: ‘Oh my God, I love you!’”)
Line of Duty has also allowed McClure to take her pick of roles and on Alex Rider, Mrs Jones’s relationship with Alex struck a real chord. As the series progresses, “that relationship becomes less business-like and more nurturing. She has a concern for his welfare that she wouldn’t feel if he were an adult in that situation.
“To a degree, it’s motherly concern, but in the end I’d just say it’s human concern. She doesn’t want to be his mum. It’s just that he’s a child who has been put into positions that are very dangerous and part of the reason he is in those positions is her doing. So she feels an element of responsibility for him.”
The other appeal of the role was much closer to home.
“I wasn’t aware of the books. I’m not in the demographic to have read them.” Throwing me a mischievous glance, she continues: “We are both a bit over the right age for them!
“I don’t have children, but I asked my 11-year-old nephew if he had heard of Alex Rider. He said: ‘Duh, yeah, of course I’ve heard of it! I read it at school.’
“I don’t think my nephew has ever been able to watch anything I have been in before because the majority of what I do is dark. He is very excited about it – that was a big reason for doing this.”
With 11 novels in the series, Alex Rider could well grow into a long-running franchise – a sort of James Bond Junior. McClure’s keen, but don’t expect her to do any stunts.
Though everyone might remember her hanging off the side of the lorry and toting a machine gun in Line of Duty (which led many to call for her to be the next Bond), on Alex Rider she avoided any of the snowboarding scenes with the teenage spy. “I would rather not break any bones – I’ve left that to the kids.”
‘Alex Rider’ arrives on Amazon Prime Video on Thursday 4 June


inews--2020-06-01--Man jailed for 'audacious' diamond heist which saw gang swap £4.2m of diamonds for pebbles in a Lond

Man jailed for 'audacious' diamond heist which saw gang swap £4.2m of diamonds for pebbles in a London jewellers

Man jailed for 'audacious ' diamond heist which saw gang swap £4.2m of diamonds for pebbles in a London jewellers Mickael Jovanovic was part of gang who posed as Russian investors to carry out biggest shoplifting theft in recent British criminal history A member of a gang of slick international diamond thieves has been jailed for his part in an “ audacious ” scam which saw gems worth more than £4m replaced with pebbles at a top London jewellers .
Mickael Jovanovic , 27 , a French national , was sentenced to three years and eight months ’ imprisonment last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and his co-conspirators carried out an elaborate heist in March 2016 at the Mayfair premises of bespoke jewellery company Boodles .
Such was the painstaking nature of the preparations by the thieves , who posed as Russian investors , that they arranged a meeting with the chairman of Boodles , Nicholas Wainwright , in Monaco eight days before the theft .
Southwark Crown Court in central London heard that the gang then sent a woman , known only as “ Anna ” , to pose as a gem expert on the pretence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ Bond Street store .
During the professional-looking examination , “ Anna ” managed to swap the stones for seven pebbles , concealed in a padlocked bag identical to the one holding the real stones , and left the premises , handing the diamonds to other members of the team on the street before dispersing .
Scotland Yard said the theft was so well planned that the gang members , who struck on 10 March 2016 , had all returned to France by car or plane within three hours .
The operation led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers used CCTV footage to painstakingly piece together the movements of the gang - two men and several women - before and after they had checked out of a hotel in Ilford , east London , on the morning of the theft .
Despite attempting to hide their movements using mini-cabs to make journeys around London , the group were traced - but not before they had been able to return to France by means including a Citroen car , hired in Paris .
Detective Constable William Man , of the Yard ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This was a well-organised theft which evolved over a number of weeks both in London and on the Continent .
“ Like the plot of a film , this was a truly audacious crime .
They stole the diamonds and fled in a matter of hours .
However , they left behind a trail of evidence which led us to where they were staying and [ the ] Citroen they had hired in Paris.
” The fake gemologist had pretended to be confused while she was examining the stones in the basement of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bag containing the diamonds in her bag .
When she was asked to remove the bag , she instead produced a replica containing seven pebbles , which was placed in the company ’ s safe .
Mr Wainwright subsequently called the member of the gang posing as the prospective buyer and was told that the funds were being transferred .
Growing suspicious , the safe was opened to discover a handful of pebbles rather than diamonds .
DC Man said : “ As a result of piecing together all of the bits of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a matter of time before arrests were made .
And whilst it has taken four years , this case does highlight that we won ’ t give up .
We still remain determined to identify all of those involved .
”

A member of a gang of slick international diamond thieves has been jailed for his part in an “audacious” scam which saw gems worth more than £4m replaced with pebbles at a top London jewellers.
Mickael Jovanovic, 27, a French national, was sentenced to three years and eight months’ imprisonment last week after a court heard how he and his co-conspirators carried out an elaborate heist in March 2016 at the Mayfair premises of bespoke jewellery company Boodles.
Such was the painstaking nature of the preparations by the thieves, who posed as Russian investors, that they arranged a meeting with the chairman of Boodles, Nicholas Wainwright, in Monaco eight days before the theft.
Seven diamonds
During the meeting, the Ocean’s Eleven-style crooks agreed in principle to buy seven diamonds worth £4.2m, including a single stone worth some £2m.
Southwark Crown Court in central London heard that the gang then sent a woman, known only as “Anna”, to pose as a gem expert on the pretence of appraising a collection of diamonds at Boodles’ Bond Street store.
During the professional-looking examination, “Anna” managed to swap the stones for seven pebbles, concealed in a padlocked bag identical to the one holding the real stones, and left the premises, handing the diamonds to other members of the team on the street before dispersing.
Three hours
Scotland Yard said the theft was so well planned that the gang members, who struck on 10 March 2016, had all returned to France by car or plane within three hours.
The operation led to a four-year manhunt after Metropolitan Police officers used CCTV footage to painstakingly piece together the movements of the gang – two men and several women – before and after they had checked out of a hotel in Ilford, east London, on the morning of the theft.
Despite attempting to hide their movements using mini-cabs to make journeys around London, the group were traced – but not before they had been able to return to France by means including a Citroen car, hired in Paris.
Italy
Jovanovic, who is from Le Blanc Mesnil, a gritty suburb in north eastern Paris, was eventually arrested in Italy and extradited to Britain in January.
Detective Constable William Man, of the Yard’s Flying Squad, said: “This was a well-organised theft which evolved over a number of weeks both in London and on the Continent.
“Like the plot of a film, this was a truly audacious crime. They stole the diamonds and fled in a matter of hours. However, they left behind a trail of evidence which led us to where they were staying and [the] Citroen they had hired in Paris.”
‘Distraction’ swap
The alarm was raised only a day after “Anna” had carried out her sophisticated “distraction” swap.
The fake gemologist had pretended to be confused while she was examining the stones in the basement of the Boodles store, briefly placing the bag containing the diamonds in her bag. When she was asked to remove the bag, she instead produced a replica containing seven pebbles, which was placed in the company’s safe.
Mr Wainwright subsequently called the member of the gang posing as the prospective buyer and was told that the funds were being transferred. Growing suspicious, the safe was opened to discover a handful of pebbles rather than diamonds.
The theft is believed to be the highest value incident of shoplifting in recent criminal history.
Surveillance
The Yard insisted it had always been “a matter of time” before members of the gang were arrested.
A fellow conspirator, Christophe Stankovic, who carried out surveillance of the Boodles store, was arrested and jailed in 2016. But the female members of the gang remain at large.
DC Man said: “As a result of piecing together all of the bits of information, we knew it was only a matter of time before arrests were made. And whilst it has taken four years, this case does highlight that we won’t give up. We still remain determined to identify all of those involved.”