inews--2020-06-01--When will hotels open in the UK? Latest on domestic holidays - and current lockdown rules explained

When will hotels open in the UK ?
Latest on domestic holidays - and current lockdown rules explained Hospitality , entertainment and indoor leisure venues were instructed to close their doors at the end of March as part of lockdown procedures This is when hotels and similar businesses might be able to open their doors again ( Photo : Shutterstock ) Lockdown restrictions are beginning to ease across the UK , with some businesses beginning to reopen their doors to the public .
But when will hotels , B & Bs and other holiday accommodation be allowed to do the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under new lockdown rules ?
In a 50-page dossier , outlining details of the plan , it listed the businesses and ventures which must remain closed for the time being .
There were some exceptions to the rule , however .
In some instances , the previously listed holiday accommodation could remain open , such as : When will hotels be allowed to reopen ?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he hopes “ to reopen at least some of the hospitality industry and other public places provided they ’ re safe and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which would be 4 July at the very earliest .
The document states : “ Some venues which are , by design , crowded and where it may prove difficult to enact distancing may still not be able to re-open safely at this point , or may be able to open safely in part.
” Businesses such as hotels and the like will have to be able to meet “ Covid-19 secure guidelines ” and if they can not , may not be permitted to reopen .
Can I get a hotel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Many Brits have seen their travel plans disrupted by the spread of coronavirus - including staycations and holidays in the UK .
If you had reservations with a hotel in the UK that will no longer be open on your date of travel , you should be able to get a refund , or at the very least , be able to reschedule .
Holiday Inn have implemented a new policy in light of the coronavirus , which allows existing bookings made before 6 April 2020 at all their hotels to be changed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to 30 June 2020 .
And if you had a booking with Premier Inn for a hotel stay before 4 July , you can cancel your booking on their website for free .
This doesn ’ t apply to key workers who are still being catered for .
Hilton Hotels have also made it possible for travellers who had booked with them for arrival on or before June 30 to change or cancel at no charge - even those trips described as “ non-cancellable ” .

Lockdown restrictions are beginning to ease across the UK, with some businesses beginning to reopen their doors to the public.
But when will hotels, B&Bs and other holiday accommodation be allowed to do the same?
This is everything you need to know.
Are hotels allowed to reopen under new lockdown rules?
On 10 May, the UK Government announced its phased plan for lifting lockdown.
In a 50-page dossier, outlining details of the plan, it listed the businesses and ventures which must remain closed for the time being.
These include holiday accommodation, specifically hotels, hostels, B&Bs, holiday rentals, campsites and boarding houses.
There were some exceptions to the rule, however. In some instances, the previously listed holiday accommodation could remain open, such as:
In the situation where people live in these places as interim residences whilst their primary home is unavailable, or they live in them permanently
Non-UK residents who are unable to travel to their country of residence can continue to stay in hotels or similar as required
Hotels and other accommodation listed can also be provided to any person unable to return to their main residence
They can also provide services to any critical workers in the effort to deal with coronavirus, if the stay is needed for their work
Hotels, hostels and B&Bs providing rooms to support the homeless and vulnerable (such as those who cannot stay safety in their home) can remain open
Hotels and other accommodation listed are allowed to host blood donation sessions
When will hotels be allowed to reopen?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he hopes “to reopen at least some of the hospitality industry and other public places provided they’re safe and enforce social distancing” in phase three, which would be 4 July at the very earliest.
Johnson said that this would happen “if and only if the numbers support it”.
In the recovery strategy document, “hospitality” is defined by the government as food service providers, pubs and accommodation.
The document states: “Some venues which are, by design, crowded and where it may prove difficult to enact distancing may still not be able to re-open safely at this point, or may be able to open safely in part.”
Businesses such as hotels and the like will have to be able to meet “Covid-19 secure guidelines” and if they cannot, may not be permitted to reopen.
However hotels, bars and cafes could reopen on 3 July in Northern Ireland, weeks before the scheduled reopening on 20 July, if the Stormont executives agree on a plan.
Can I get a hotel refund if I had a reservation?
Many Brits have seen their travel plans disrupted by the spread of coronavirus – including staycations and holidays in the UK.
If you had reservations with a hotel in the UK that will no longer be open on your date of travel, you should be able to get a refund, or at the very least, be able to reschedule.
Holiday Inn have implemented a new policy in light of the coronavirus, which allows existing bookings made before 6 April 2020 at all their hotels to be changed or cancelled free of charge for stays up to 30 June 2020.
And if you had a booking with Premier Inn for a hotel stay before 4 July, you can cancel your booking on their website for free. This doesn’t apply to key workers who are still being catered for.
Hilton Hotels have also made it possible for travellers who had booked with them for arrival on or before June 30 to change or cancel at no charge – even those trips described as “non-cancellable”.
With easyHotel, those who had booked to stay before 30 June can rebook or get a refund for free.


inews--2020-06-01--When will Greggs open near me? 800 UK stores reopening with reduced menu - here's all you need to kn

When will Greggs open near me? 800 UK stores reopening with reduced menu - here's all you need to know

When will Greggs open near me ?
800 UK stores reopening with limited menu - here 's all you need to know On 24 March , Greggs closed its doors to the public in line with the UK lockdown rules - but now the chain is looking to come back The successful reopening of some of Greggs stores has allowed the chain to announce that 800 more branches will be opening from June .
Greggs CEO , Roger Whiteside announced that a selection of Greggs branches in the North East had reopened on a trial basis , testing how delivery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work using new safety measures .
It was revealed that the trials have been “ performing well ” and that more branches will be opening .
“ We plan to start preparing and opening more shops nationwide from around the 18th of June and we ’ re currently in the process of selecting around 800 shops to reopen , this will initially include approximately 150 franchise shops , ” Whiteside said .
Will there be social distancing measures in place ?
All new stores that reopen will have the tried and tested operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of both staff and customers .
This move comes after initial plans to reopen 20 stores in April fell through due to fears that social distancing measures would not be successfully upheld .
Prior to this however , Greggs is beginning with a phased approach to opening its doors , with 150 shops initially being reopened around 18 June , and the eventual goal to open 800 branches .
These branches will likely follow the lead of previous Greggs stores that have opened and offer delivery , collection and take away services - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced that all “ non-essential ” retailers in England would be able to resume from June 15 , with the likes of markets and car dealerships being able to open from June 1 .
Boris Johnson said that the hospitality industry and other public places would be able to reopen in July “ at the earliest ” .
What is the reduced menu ?
There has not been any announcement about what this menu could look like - and it could vary from branch to branch .
It is likely that the more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the limited menu , such as sausage rolls , steak bakes and cheese and onion pasties .
Will my Greggs gift card still be valid ?
If you ’ ve got a Greggs gift card that you ’ ve not been able to use due to lockdown , and you ’ re concerned about losing the balance on it , you should contact Greggs .
For those with Greggs Rewards collected via the app , you should be aware that any rewards that have expired while stores were closed will be reissued to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The likes of Starbucks , Pret A Manger and Costa Coffee have started opening cafes across the UK as well .

The successful reopening of some of Greggs stores has allowed the chain to announce that 800 more branches will be opening from June.
These stores will be operating under social distancing measures and a reduced menu.
This is everything you need to know.
When will Greggs reopen?
Greggs CEO, Roger Whiteside announced that a selection of Greggs branches in the North East had reopened on a trial basis, testing how delivery, collection and walk in orders would work using new safety measures.
It was revealed that the trials have been “performing well” and that more branches will be opening.
“We plan to start preparing and opening more shops nationwide from around the 18th of June and we’re currently in the process of selecting around 800 shops to reopen, this will initially include approximately 150 franchise shops,” Whiteside said.
Will there be social distancing measures in place?
All new stores that reopen will have the tried and tested operation measures in place to ensure the safety of both staff and customers.
This move comes after initial plans to reopen 20 stores in April fell through due to fears that social distancing measures would not be successfully upheld.
Which stores are opening?
The plan is to have all Greggs shops reopened with new operational measures in place by 1 July.
Prior to this however, Greggs is beginning with a phased approach to opening its doors, with 150 shops initially being reopened around 18 June, and the eventual goal to open 800 branches.
These branches will likely follow the lead of previous Greggs stores that have opened and offer delivery, collection and take away services – not sit in.
However the company has not confirmed which stores will reopen.
You can use the Greggs store locator tool to find your nearest branch.
The UK government announced that all “non-essential” retailers in England would be able to resume from June 15, with the likes of markets and car dealerships being able to open from June 1.
Boris Johnson said that the hospitality industry and other public places would be able to reopen in July “at the earliest”.
The four phase route map in Scotland could see pubs and restaurants waiting longer to open their doors than in England.
What is the reduced menu?
The stores that will be reopening their doors to the public will be working from a “reduced range”.
There has not been any announcement about what this menu could look like – and it could vary from branch to branch.
It is likely that the more popular items will still be included in the limited menu, such as sausage rolls, steak bakes and cheese and onion pasties.
Will my Greggs gift card still be valid?
Greggs states that “all gift cards are valid for two years from date of purchase”.
If you’ve got a Greggs gift card that you’ve not been able to use due to lockdown, and you’re concerned about losing the balance on it, you should contact Greggs.
You can do this by phoning 0808 147 3447.
For those with Greggs Rewards collected via the app, you should be aware that any rewards that have expired while stores were closed will be reissued to your account at a later date.
Online reaction
The online reaction to the news that Greggs are beginning to reopen their doors has been overwhelmingly positive.
Taking to Twitter, users embraced the news wholeheartedly.
One user wrote: “Finally, some good news. Cheese and onion pasties on me.”
Another tweeted: “These are happy tears” in response to the news with a crying emoji.
Are other fast food restaurants open?
Various businesses in the food industry are beginning to open their doors to the public once more after being closed due to lockdown.
Restaurants like Five Guys, McDonald’s, KFC, Nandos and Burger King have opened their doors for takeaway, delivery and drive-thru services.
The likes of Starbucks, Pret A Manger and Costa Coffee have started opening cafes across the UK as well.


inews--2020-06-01--Costa Coffee open near me: 300 branches now open for drive thru or takeaway - how to check if your l

Costa Coffee open near me: 300 branches now open for drive thru or takeaway - how to check if your local store is open

Costa Coffee open near me : 300 branches now open for drive thru or takeaway - how to check if your local store is open Businesses in the food and drink industry are beginning to slowly reopen their doors to the public as lockdown rules ease In an announcement , Costa stated : “ Our store teams have responded well to our new ways of working , which has given us confidence that we can reopen more stores.
” You can see the full list of 316 Costa stores that have opened across the UK here .
Is it safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Costa has also revealed new social distancing and hygiene measures at its reopened stores in order to keep workers and customers safe .
“ To keep our store teams and customers safe , we ’ ve made a lot of changes to how we serve our coffee , introducing social distancing and enhancing our hygiene procedures , ” the customer notice explained .
What are the new rules for customers ?
For customers looking to get their caffeine fix from Costa , there are some new rules you should be aware of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takeaway orders , you ’ ll need to look out for and follow the floor signs that indicate safe , two metre distancing .
These signs will be found both inside and outside of the store .
You ’ ll be called up to the counter to order , one customer at a time , and a member of the team will greet you from behind a perspex screen .
Your order will be then collected from the counter .
For drive-thru orders , the lanes will be open as usual .
To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see that a new extendable shelf has been installed , which allows for baristas to pass you your order with no contact .
How to check if your local branch is open To check if your local branch is opening for drive-thru or takeaway , you can use the Costa store locator tool .
You can let the tool use your current location to search for branches , or you can enter your location manually .
If you head onto the UberEats app or website and see Costa available , just tap on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to see the menu available for delivery .
Add your desired items to your basket , go to the check out and a delivery driver will contactlessly drop off your items .
Thank you to the NHS

It’s been announced by Costa Coffee that a total of 316 branches are now open for delivery, takeaway or drive-thru services.
Here’s what you need to know.
Which Costa Coffee shops are reopening?
Taking to Twitter, Costa announced: “We’re opening a further 97 stores today [28 May] including 58 Drive-Thru, and 39 trialling takeaway only, taking the total amount of stores open to 316.”
In an announcement, Costa stated: “Our store teams have responded well to our new ways of working, which has given us confidence that we can reopen more stores.”
You can see the full list of 316 Costa stores that have opened across the UK here.
Is it safe for Costa to reopen for takeaway?
Costa has also revealed new social distancing and hygiene measures at its reopened stores in order to keep workers and customers safe.
“To keep our store teams and customers safe, we’ve made a lot of changes to how we serve our coffee, introducing social distancing and enhancing our hygiene procedures,” the customer notice explained.
What are the new rules for customers?
For customers looking to get their caffeine fix from Costa, there are some new rules you should be aware of that are being implemented in store.
For takeaway orders, you’ll need to look out for and follow the floor signs that indicate safe, two metre distancing. These signs will be found both inside and outside of the store. You’ll be called up to the counter to order, one customer at a time, and a member of the team will greet you from behind a perspex screen. Your order will be then collected from the counter.
A hand sanitiser station has also been placed near every store entrance for customers to use.
Customers cannot sit in the cafes, and payments must be cashless and contactless.
For drive-thru orders, the lanes will be open as usual. To support social distancing, you’ll see that a new extendable shelf has been installed, which allows for baristas to pass you your order with no contact.
How to check if your local branch is open
To check if your local branch is opening for drive-thru or takeaway, you can use the Costa store locator tool.
You can let the tool use your current location to search for branches, or you can enter your location manually.
The Costa map will then show you all available Costa machines in supermarkets, express stores and drive-thru stores.
Which Costa branches are delivering?
Costa also has 14 stores available for delivery only via UberEats.
If you head onto the UberEats app or website and see Costa available, just tap on the cafe and you’ll be able to see the menu available for delivery.
You can order hot drinks, iced drinks and food items as well such as pasties and sandwiches.
Add your desired items to your basket, go to the check out and a delivery driver will contactlessly drop off your items.
These are the stores available for delivery:
Avonmeads Retail Park, BS2 0SP
Birmingham, Navigation Street, B2 4BS
Edinburgh South Bridge, EH1 1HN
Leeds Crown Point Retail Park, LS10 1ET
Leicester, St George’s Retail Park, LE1 1SG
Manchester Oxford Road, M13 9BL
Newcastle Gallowgate Wellbar, NE1 4TD
Peckham Rye Lane, SE15 5EW
Peterborough Brotherhood, PE4 6ZR
Plymouth New George, PL1 1RJ
Richmond, TW9 1DN
Romford Pavillion, RM1 1AU
Tooley Street, SE1 2RS
Whitechapel, E1 7PU
Thank you to the NHS
As part of the process of reopening stores, Costa wants to keep supporting “everyone who’s keeping the country moving”.
Costa said: “Over the past week we have delivered another hundred thousand Ready-to-Drink Costa Coffee cans to key workers, providing a well deserved coffee break to those working in hospitals, police and fire stations and NHS call centres, to name a few.”


inews--2020-06-01--UK lockdown rules: All the things you can do today you couldn't do yesterday with coronavirus guidel

UK lockdown rules: All the things you can do today you couldn't do yesterday with coronavirus guidelines easing

UK lockdown rules : All the things you can do today you could n't do yesterday with coronavirus guidelines easing The biggest change in England is visiting friends and family in private gardens , with up to six people from different households now allowed In an announcement on Sunday , the Cabinet Office set out its plan to `` return life to as near normal as we can , for as many people as we can , as quickly and fairly as possible in order to safeguard livelihoods , but in a way that is safe and continues to protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parts of the country is also permitted , so long as it is possible to return on the same day , and vulnerable people are not at risk .
( Photo : Getty Images ) A sign on the grass reminds golfers to respect social distancing measures at The Old Course in St Andrews , Scotland But the same measures as regards those displaying symptoms remain - anyone with suspected coronavirus must self-isolate and remain indoors for 14 days .
The Government has conceded this is hard to enforce and is largely `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the crucial changes to lockdown in England .
People can now : But people still can not : The Government 's overarching message is still that people should `` stay alert '' , keep the amount of people they see to a minimum , and limit the amount of contact with others .
The Government has also introduced higher penalties for those who do not comply .
If the police believe somebody has broken a law relating to Covid-19 , a fixed penalty notice of £100 ( reduced to £50 if paid within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued .

The Government has further eased lockdown restrictions in England as the country moves to the next phase of managing the Covid-19 outbreak.
In an announcement on Sunday, the Cabinet Office set out its plan to “return life to as near normal as we can, for as many people as we can, as quickly and fairly as possible in order to safeguard livelihoods, but in a way that is safe and continues to protect our NHS”.
The guidance is applicable from 1 June, while slightly tougher, specific measures are still in place in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The biggest change in England is visiting friends and family in private gardens, with up to six people from different households now allowed to socialise.
Travelling to other parts of the country is also permitted, so long as it is possible to return on the same day, and vulnerable people are not at risk.
On Sunday, Boris Johnson lifted rules on “shielders”, meaning even those at higher risk, such as people over 70, are allowed outside.
But the same measures as regards those displaying symptoms remain – anyone with suspected coronavirus must self-isolate and remain indoors for 14 days. The Government has conceded this is hard to enforce and is largely “built on trust”.
Here are the crucial changes to lockdown in England. People can now:
Spend time outdoors, including private gardens and other outdoor spaces, in groups of up to six people from different households, following social distancing guidelines
Visit car showrooms and outdoor markets
In line with the arrangements made by schools, parents can now send children to school or nursery if they are in early years, reception, year 1 or year 6, if they could not before
Elite athlete as defined by this guidance can now train and compete using the specified gyms, pools and sports facilities they need – which will, in the coming weeks, enable others to watch live sport on TV
At all times, people must continue to adhere to strict social distancing guidelines when outside of their homes, ensuring you a two metre distance from anyone outside their household
But people still cannot:
Visit friends and family inside their homes
Stay overnight away from their own home, except for in a limited set of circumstances, such as for work purposes
Exercise in an indoor sports court, gym or leisure centre, or go swimming in a public pool
Use an outdoor gym or playground
Gather outdoors in a group of more than six (excluding members of their own household)
The Government’s overarching message is still that people should “stay alert”, keep the amount of people they see to a minimum, and limit the amount of contact with others.
“The more people you have interactions with, the more chance the virus has to spread,” said the Cabinet Office.
“Therefore, try to limit the number of people you see – especially over short periods of time.”
Penalties
The Government has also introduced higher penalties for those who do not comply. If the police believe somebody has broken a law relating to Covid-19, a fixed penalty notice of £100 (reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days), can be immediately issued.


inews--2020-06-01--Greece travel advice: how coronavirus restrictions being lifted affects UK travellers and the summer

Greece travel advice: how coronavirus restrictions being lifted affects UK travellers and the summer holidays

Greece travel advice : how coronavirus restrictions being lifted affects UK travellers and the summer holidays Around the world we are beginning to see lockdown restrictions lift , with Greece aiming to get the tourism industry back on track This is what you need to know about being able to travel to Greece ( Photo : Shutterstock ) This is everything you need to know as Greece begins to welcome tourists back to the country and emerge from its coronavirus lockdown .
When can I travel to Greece ?
From 1 June , tourism will gradually begin to resume in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to open .
As of 25 May , the final restrictions on domestic travel to the islands have been lifted , allowing for free movement around the country .
International flights will be permitted to land only at Athens International Airport until 30 June .
As of 1 July , flights from abroad towards all Greek airports will be allowed .
The country ’ s government announced that the international tourism period will begin on 15 June , when seasonal hotels will be permitted to open their doors again .
What new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown , tourism in Greece won ’ t be back to the way things were before - everywhere from hotels , restaurants , cinemas , flights and more will have to operate under a reduced capacity to allow for social distancing .
For passengers and crews on aircrafts , the use of masks are mandatory .
This is also the case on public transport .
Tourists will be expected to wear masks in public places .
Travellers coming via air will be subjected to spot tests by health officials .
Restaurants , cafes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as per government guidelines , tables will only be places in open air and semi-outdoor areas , with a safe distance between them .
Beaches , parks and gardens opened from 18 May , with swimming in the sea permitted and individual sports in open spaces , but there are strict social distancing guidelines that need to be followed .
Initially , the United Kingdom was not included in the list of countries that they will permit travellers from – but Greece has since changed this stance .
Greek tourism minister Haris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s record on coronavirus has not been good enough to allow British travellers to visit Greece However , it has now been confirmed that Greece will also accept arrivals from airports that include British Airports , but travellers will be subject to testing and possible quarantine .
Tourism minister Haris Theoharis told the ANA-MPA news agency : “ Tourists originating from airports listed on EASA are obliged to be tested once they land in Greece and remain at a designated hotel for one day .
If the test turns out negative , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ observe a seven-day quarantine .
If their sample is positive , they will remain in a 14-day quarantine and their health will be monitored . ''

This is everything you need to know as Greece begins to welcome tourists back to the country and emerge from its coronavirus lockdown.
When can I travel to Greece?
From 1 June, tourism will gradually begin to resume in Greece, with hotels and campsites being able to open. As of 25 May, the final restrictions on domestic travel to the islands have been lifted, allowing for free movement around the country.
International flights will be permitted to land only at Athens International Airport until 30 June. As of 1 July, flights from abroad towards all Greek airports will be allowed.
The country’s government announced that the international tourism period will begin on 15 June, when seasonal hotels will be permitted to open their doors again.
What new measures will be in place?
Following lockdown, tourism in Greece won’t be back to the way things were before – everywhere from hotels, restaurants, cinemas, flights and more will have to operate under a reduced capacity to allow for social distancing.
For passengers and crews on aircrafts, the use of masks are mandatory. This is also the case on public transport. Tourists will be expected to wear masks in public places. Travellers coming via air will be subjected to spot tests by health officials.
Certain tourist activities are still not allowed, such as large group tours with a guide, or cruise ship holidays.
Restaurants, cafes and bars will be open, but, as per government guidelines, tables will only be places in open air and semi-outdoor areas, with a safe distance between them.
Beaches, parks and gardens opened from 18 May, with swimming in the sea permitted and individual sports in open spaces, but there are strict social distancing guidelines that need to be followed.
Are UK residents allowed to visit Greece?
Initially, the United Kingdom was not included in the list of countries that they will permit travellers from – but Greece has since changed this stance.
Greek tourism minister Haris Theoharis had told ITV that the UK’s record on coronavirus has not been good enough to allow British travellers to visit Greece
However, it has now been confirmed that Greece will also accept arrivals from airports that include British Airports, but travellers will be subject to testing and possible quarantine.
Tourism minister Haris Theoharis told the ANA-MPA news agency: “Tourists originating from airports listed on EASA are obliged to be tested once they land in Greece and remain at a designated hotel for one day. If the test turns out negative, these visitors will then be obliged to observe a seven-day quarantine. If their sample is positive, they will remain in a 14-day quarantine and their health will be monitored.”
Greece’s borders will continue to be temporarily closed to non-EU travellers until 31 May, however there are exceptions to this rule, such as:


inews--2020-06-01--Coronavirus: The Test and Trace system designed to unlock the country is still a black box, even as

Coronavirus: The Test and Trace system designed to unlock the country is still a black box, even as rules are eased

Coronavirus : The Test and Trace system designed to unlock the country is still a black box , even as rules are eased It is not known how many people are currently taking part in the NHS Test and Trace programme Ministers have always been clear that an efficient contact tracing system would be key to lifting the UK 's lockdown safely .
It means that rather than the same strict rules being imposed on everyone , only those who are most at risk of contracting Covid-19 because they have been in contact with confirmed cases are deprived of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the `` world beating '' scheme would be in place in England by 1 June , and NHS Test and Trace was formally launched last Thursday - although its head warned it will take some time before the system is truly one of the best in the world .
In the early days of the programme , there have been complaints about problems with the software used by the 25,000 contact tracers , many of whom report that they have spent their first shifts sitting around with nothing to do .
That may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ building spare capacity into the system is probably a good idea , because it would allow contact tracing to continue even if there was a major increase in the number of Covid-19 cases .
But so far the Government has refused to say how many infected people are using NHS Test and Trace each day .
The programme is claimed to have the capacity to handle 10,000 cases a day - more than the estimated number of new infections across the whole UK - but officials either do not know how much of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not reveal the number publicly .
Similarly , while the increase in daily testing capacity to 200,000 can only be good news , for nearly a week the Department of Health has been unable to provide figures for how many individual people are getting tested each day .
Test and Trace will only work properly if everyone with symptoms can quickly get a test , and it is still unclear whether or not that is happening .
Local health officials are frustrated that the system is not yet set up to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is one reason why the Association of Directors of Public Health has warned that it is too early to start easing the lockdown .
And the app which was once heralded as a key part of the programme is still not ready , with no date set for it to start .
Some contact tracing is almost certainly better than none .
But ministers have not yet proven that the system is ready to prop up the UK 's new normal in the days , weeks and months to come .

Ministers have always been clear that an efficient contact tracing system would be key to lifting the UK’s lockdown safely. It means that rather than the same strict rules being imposed on everyone, only those who are most at risk of contracting Covid-19 because they have been in contact with confirmed cases are deprived of their liberties.
Boris Johnson had promised that the “world beating” scheme would be in place in England by 1 June, and NHS Test and Trace was formally launched last Thursday – although its head warned it will take some time before the system is truly one of the best in the world.
In the early days of the programme, there have been complaints about problems with the software used by the 25,000 contact tracers, many of whom report that they have spent their first shifts sitting around with nothing to do.
That may not be a problem in itself: building spare capacity into the system is probably a good idea, because it would allow contact tracing to continue even if there was a major increase in the number of Covid-19 cases.
No answers
But so far the Government has refused to say how many infected people are using NHS Test and Trace each day. The programme is claimed to have the capacity to handle 10,000 cases a day – more than the estimated number of new infections across the whole UK – but officials either do not know how much of that capacity is being used, or will not reveal the number publicly.
Similarly, while the increase in daily testing capacity to 200,000 can only be good news, for nearly a week the Department of Health has been unable to provide figures for how many individual people are getting tested each day. Test and Trace will only work properly if everyone with symptoms can quickly get a test, and it is still unclear whether or not that is happening.
App still not ready
Local health officials are frustrated that the system is not yet set up to make use of their skills; that frustration is one reason why the Association of Directors of Public Health has warned that it is too early to start easing the lockdown. And the app which was once heralded as a key part of the programme is still not ready, with no date set for it to start.
Some contact tracing is almost certainly better than none. But ministers have not yet proven that the system is ready to prop up the UK’s new normal in the days, weeks and months to come.


inews--2020-06-01--Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace: what time the foundlings special is on ITV tonight, and what t

Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace: what time the foundlings special is on ITV tonight, and what to expect

Long Lost Family : Born Without Trace : what time the foundlings special is on ITV tonight , and what to expect Long Lost Family : Born Without a Trace focuses on 'foundlings ' - people who were abandoned as babies Long Lost Family is used to reuniting people with parents and siblings they never thought they would see again .
But this brand new special presents an even bigger challenge .
Long Lost Family : Born Without a Trace focuses on `` foundlings '' ; people who were abandoned as babies - literally left in cardboard boxes on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them discover their roots .
The two-parter will follow four foundlings on their journey to find out who they really are and where they came from - no mean feat when many of them have no way of knowing their true identities .
The show is presented by Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell ( Photo : ITV ) When is Long Lost Family : Born Without a Trace on TV ?
The first episode , which follows a pair of siblings abandoned as babies six years apart before managing to find each other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9pm on ITV .
The second episode follows two people discovered abandoned in the streets , and is on at the same time the following night - 9pm on Tuesday 2 June on ITV .
What can we expect ?
The show is presented by Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell , who call on the Long Lost Family team to combine the latest DNA technology with painstaking detective work , enabling four foundlings to finally uncover their identities .
In episode one we meet Helen Ward and David McBride .
David was found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the outskirts of Belfast in 1962 , and six years later Helen was discovered in Dundalk , on the other side of the Irish border , in a telephone box .
David discovered he had a sister last year ( Photo : ITV ) '' All these years without knowing it , we were walking two paths waiting to come together as one , '' says David .
Helen adds : `` It was overwhelming .
I 'd built a picture of who my parents might have been , but I 'd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will discover the somewhat surprising story of their parents , which leaves David and Helen feeling compassionate for them despite being abandoned .

Long Lost Family is used to reuniting people with parents and siblings they never thought they would see again.
But this brand new special presents an even bigger challenge. Long Lost Family: Born Without a Trace focuses on “foundlings”; people who were abandoned as babies – literally left in cardboard boxes on the side of the street – and helps them discover their roots.
The two-parter will follow four foundlings on their journey to find out who they really are and where they came from – no mean feat when many of them have no way of knowing their true identities.
Here is everything you need to know…
When is Long Lost Family: Born Without a Trace on TV?
The first episode, which follows a pair of siblings abandoned as babies six years apart before managing to find each other, aired on Monday 1 June at 9pm on ITV.
The second episode follows two people discovered abandoned in the streets, and is on at the same time the following night – 9pm on Tuesday 2 June on ITV.
What can we expect?
The show is presented by Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell, who call on the Long Lost Family team to combine the latest DNA technology with painstaking detective work, enabling four foundlings to finally uncover their identities.
In episode one we meet Helen Ward and David McBride. David was found in a tartan bag in a car on the outskirts of Belfast in 1962, and six years later Helen was discovered in Dundalk, on the other side of the Irish border, in a telephone box.
“All these years without knowing it, we were walking two paths waiting to come together as one,” says David.
Helen adds: “It was overwhelming. I’d built a picture of who my parents might have been, but I’d never thought of siblings.”
We will discover the somewhat surprising story of their parents, which leaves David and Helen feeling compassionate for them despite being abandoned.
In episode two we meet a woman found at just two hours old in a ladies public toilet in Warminster and a man found in a corned beef box outside a railway tavern in Greenhithe.


inews--2020-06-01--Social distancing: Why the 2m coronavirus rules are about human nature more than science

Social distancing : Why the 2m coronavirus rules are about human nature more than science Studies have proved that people respond better to round numbers - regardless if science supports them It has arguably been one of the great public health messages of recent times : stay two metres apart .
But why two ?
Why not 1.5 metres as in Germany or Australia , or one metre as in Italy or France ?
As the Government comes under increasing pressure from the pub and restaurant industry to relax the social-distancing rule , it is intriguing to examine the thinking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love of a nice , round number .
Before Covid-19 , the most famous public health message was probably to eat “ five-a-day ” .
Introduced by the Department of Health as policy in 2003 , the idea was that by eating five portions of fruit or vegetables a day , incidences of heart disease and cancer would fall dramatically .
Professor Tim Lang , food policy expert at City University , London , was instrumental in its introduction to the UK .
“ When the Department of Health came up with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were borrowing it from the US , ” he tells i .
But he admits the slogan – easy to understand and communicate – failed to explain the nuance behind the message and it soon became a marketing tool for various fruit juice and smoothie manufacturers .
“ Targets can be useful if they concentrate minds .
They are not useful if they become an end in themselves .
We saw it with the five-a-day , which was a compromise .
We didn ’ t want to frighten the horses .
So often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientific targets.
” ( Photo : Getty Images ) As with the campaign to encourage people to eat five a day , the advice to stay at a distance of two metres from others was decided based on science , but also human behaviour The science is similarly complex when it comes to the notion of staying two metres apart .
“ The evidence , as far as you can get very firm evidence on this , ” Sir Patrick Vallance , the chief scientific officer , has explained , “ is essentially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the same as six seconds at one metre .
That gives you an idea of why the two-metre rule becomes important.
” Being inside and being face to face with a Covid-infected person is a far greater risk than facing away or being outside .
But the two-metre rule is easy to understand .
Just as the message of five portions a day was .
The fruit and veg message did not significantly change consumers ’ behaviour , however .
When it was launched , 24 per cent of adults in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 28 per cent 15 years later .
“ The slogan embedded itself , but we ’ re still consuming a catastrophically low amount of fruit and vegetables , ” Lang says .
Although the evidence is unequivocal about the benefits of eating more vegetables , it is not definitive about the optimum number .
In Australia the target is seven ; it ’ s 10 in Canada and France .
The most obvious example of an arbitrary health target is “ 10,000 steps a day ” .
It is the default target on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A review by I-Min Lee , a professor of epidemiology at Harvard University , discovered it was originally a 1965 marketing slogan for a Japanese pedometer company .
“ They gave it a name that , in Japanese , means ‘ the 10,000-step meter ’ , ” she explains .
Elderly women only need to walk an additional 2,000 steps to see a noticeable increase in their health .
( Photo : Getty Images ) A sign on the grass reminds golfers to respect social distancing measures at The Old Course in St @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Washington State University , participants were given video games where you had to try to earn up to 100 points .
After three games , participants felt a greater sense of satisfaction from reaching 50 points than they did when they ended at 51 points .
Humans like round numbers .
The question is whether this bias for round numbers is healthy or problematic when it comes to public health .
“ These irrational round number targets can be great if they give you something to aim for and it is memorable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ danger is if the number isn ’ t correct – when it should be seven-a-day , 7,000 steps or , in the case of social distancing , one metre outside and maybe three metres inside .
But the problem is that the more complicated the message , the more people forget it .
”

It has arguably been one of the great public health messages of recent times: stay two metres apart. But why two? Why not 1.5 metres as in Germany or Australia, or one metre as in Italy or France? As the Government comes under increasing pressure from the pub and restaurant industry to relax the social-distancing rule, it is intriguing to examine the thinking behind these public health targets and our love of a nice, round number.
Before Covid-19, the most famous public health message was probably to eat “five-a-day”. Introduced by the Department of Health as policy in 2003, the idea was that by eating five portions of fruit or vegetables a day, incidences of heart disease and cancer would fall dramatically.
Professor Tim Lang, food policy expert at City University, London, was instrumental in its introduction to the UK. “When the Department of Health came up with the target they were quite overt that they were borrowing it from the US,” he tells i. But he admits the slogan – easy to understand and communicate – failed to explain the nuance behind the message and it soon became a marketing tool for various fruit juice and smoothie manufacturers.
“Targets can be useful if they concentrate minds. They are not useful if they become an end in themselves. We saw it with the five-a-day, which was a compromise. We didn’t want to frighten the horses. So often they are social targets, masquerading as scientific targets.”
Complicated messages don’t work
Science says that a portion of green vegetables was more valuable – in terms of vitamins and fibre – than a glass of orange juice. But including that sort of nuance in the slogan would would have complicated the message.
The science is similarly complex when it comes to the notion of staying two metres apart. “The evidence, as far as you can get very firm evidence on this,” Sir Patrick Vallance, the chief scientific officer, has explained, “is essentially a minute at two metres contact is about the same as six seconds at one metre. That gives you an idea of why the two-metre rule becomes important.” Being inside and being face to face with a Covid-infected person is a far greater risk than facing away or being outside.
But the two-metre rule is easy to understand. Just as the message of five portions a day was. The fruit and veg message did not significantly change consumers’ behaviour, however. When it was launched, 24 per cent of adults in the UK consumed five-a-day. That increased to 28 per cent 15 years later. “The slogan embedded itself, but we’re still consuming a catastrophically low amount of fruit and vegetables,” Lang says. Although the evidence is unequivocal about the benefits of eating more vegetables, it is not definitive about the optimum number. In Australia the target is seven; it’s 10 in Canada and France.
Why 10,000 steps is a meaningless amount
The most obvious example of an arbitrary health target is “10,000 steps a day”. It is the default target on many activity watches or wrist bands. A review by I-Min Lee, a professor of epidemiology at Harvard University, discovered it was originally a 1965 marketing slogan for a Japanese pedometer company. “They gave it a name that, in Japanese, means ‘the 10,000-step meter’,” she explains. Elderly women only need to walk an additional 2,000 steps to see a noticeable increase in their health.
In an experiment undertaken by Washington State University, participants were given video games where you had to try to earn up to 100 points. After three games, participants felt a greater sense of satisfaction from reaching 50 points than they did when they ended at 51 points. Humans like round numbers.
Healthy or problematic?
“It is often very arbitrary how we pick these targets. But we have an irrational attachment to round numbers; they give us an anchor point to aim towards,” explains Bobby Seagull, the mathematician and TV presenter.
The question is whether this bias for round numbers is healthy or problematic when it comes to public health. “These irrational round number targets can be great if they give you something to aim for and it is memorable,” Seagull says.
“The danger is if the number isn’t correct – when it should be seven-a-day, 7,000 steps or, in the case of social distancing, one metre outside and maybe three metres inside. But the problem is that the more complicated the message, the more people forget it.”


inews--2020-06-01--Wounded Cummings has succeeded in uniting much of the press against him

Wounded Cummings has succeeded in uniting much of the press against him The furore surrounding the Downing Street adviser has led to some unusual bedfellows in the newspaper world Dominic Cummings is still working in Downing Street but his public persona and his relationship with the media will never be the same again .
He survives for now but is permanently damaged by his lockdown dash to County Durham .
It made editorial bedfellows out of the Guardian , Daily Mirror , Daily Mail and Metro – an unlikely media alliance that was outraged by his actions and the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The story abruptly unmasked this carefully styled maverick champion of the masses , shining light on the comforts of his family farm .
Not good for the Robin Hood image .
And although Cummings refused to apologise , the former hard man of British politics was transformed from master of the media to its victim , as he declared that public anger towards him was “ based on reports in the media which have not been true ” .
Much has changed since October when the right-of-centre commentator Peter Oborne was so aggrieved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lobby that he claimed that political journalists were allowing Downing Street propaganda “ to enter the public domain unmediated by proper interrogation ” .
Seven months on , Oborne says that the power balance has shifted .
“ Large sections of the press were just a vehicle for Downing Street – that has changed , up to a point , thanks to Covid-19.
” At the end of last year , Cummings had “ a great deal of sway ” and “ if you didn ’ t get along with him you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” , adds Oborne .
He says the pandemic has created a “ more dynamic situation ” , bringing forth a large cluster of Conservative MPs who are unimpressed by Cummings and offer the media alternative sources of information .
The Durham story was broken by the Guardian and the Mirror .
But some of the most noticeable coverage came from the Daily Mail .
Its splash last Monday was the most powerful on the newsstand .
“ What Planet Are They On ?
” its headline asked , excoriating Boris Johnson and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that demanded : “ For the good of the Government and for the nation , Mr Cummings must resign .
Or the Prime Minister must sack him .
No ifs , no buts.
” Senior sources at the Mail say the stance was based on the assessment that Cummings had committed “ an act of colossal hypocrisy ” as an architect of lockdown rules .
Simply put , it was not decent .
“ The Mail has a need to stand up for the values of decency and in this respect Dominic Cummings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from someone at that level of office.
” The River Tees is pictured at Barnard Castle , less than 30 miles southwest of Durham ( Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images ) Cummings is not really its cup of English breakfast tea .
When his team tried to ban selected news outlets , including i , from Government briefings , Mail journalists boycotted in sympathy .
One writer told me : “ The Mail doesn ’ t like Cummings .
His contempt for the press doesn ’ t help but that ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a dangerous character and not really a Tory at all.
” The paper wanted to “ lead the conversation ” on the Durham trip , which had transfixed Middle England .
It led to the rare situation of the Mirror , Mail and Guardian singing from a shared hymn sheet calling for Cummings to go .
They were joined by Metro , traditionally an apolitical title , which reacted to his refusal to apologise by changing the Government ’ s “ Stay Alert ” logo to “ Stay Elite ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ run with Emily Maitlis ’ s blistering criticism of the Government in Tuesday ’ s programme .
The BBC ’ s prompt contrition , saying that Newsnight failed to meet “ our standards of due impartiality ” , undermined a flagship programme that has rediscovered its vim .
When the BBC buckles so readily ( in contrast to Cummings ’ s refusal to admit wrong ) it hardly encourages its journalists to stand up to those in power by breaking stories and not merely following up , or relaying Downing Street rebuttals of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The press is far less powerful than it once was and , sensing this was a battle it could not win , switched attention to the profits of the tech giants .
Cummings might be dismissive of mainstream media but it still carries influence among Tory MPs and core voters .
The loyalty of the Sun , Express and Telegraph is not enough .
He is wounded now and can not afford another mistake .

Dominic Cummings is still working in Downing Street but his public persona and his relationship with the media will never be the same again. He survives for now but is permanently damaged by his lockdown dash to County Durham. It made editorial bedfellows out of the Guardian, Daily Mirror, Daily Mail and Metro – an unlikely media alliance that was outraged by his actions and the Government’s refusal to sack him.
The story abruptly unmasked this carefully styled maverick champion of the masses, shining light on the comforts of his family farm. Not good for the Robin Hood image. And although Cummings refused to apologise, the former hard man of British politics was transformed from master of the media to its victim, as he declared that public anger towards him was “based on reports in the media which have not been true”.
Much has changed since October when the right-of-centre commentator Peter Oborne was so aggrieved by Cummings’s apparent stranglehold over the lobby that he claimed that political journalists were allowing Downing Street propaganda “to enter the public domain unmediated by proper interrogation”.
Power shift
Seven months on, Oborne says that the power balance has shifted. “Large sections of the press were just a vehicle for Downing Street – that has changed, up to a point, thanks to Covid-19.”
At the end of last year, Cummings had “a great deal of sway” and “if you didn’t get along with him you were going to be deprived of information”, adds Oborne. He says the pandemic has created a “more dynamic situation”, bringing forth a large cluster of Conservative MPs who are unimpressed by Cummings and offer the media alternative sources of information.
Oborne credits The Sunday Times, under its new editor Emma Tucker, for standing up to Downing Street and returning to the “campaigning, fact-based” traditions established by the paper’s legendary editor, Sir Harold Evans.
Tory supporting Mail berates PM
The Durham story was broken by the Guardian and the Mirror. But some of the most noticeable coverage came from the Daily Mail. Its splash last Monday was the most powerful on the newsstand. “What Planet Are They On?” its headline asked, excoriating Boris Johnson and his aide with a page one editorial that demanded: “For the good of the Government and for the nation, Mr Cummings must resign. Or the Prime Minister must sack him. No ifs, no buts.”
Over several days it kept up the pressure, issuing the “damning verdict” of its poll showing that 55 per cent of Tory voters thought Cummings should resign.
Senior sources at the Mail say the stance was based on the assessment that Cummings had committed “an act of colossal hypocrisy” as an architect of lockdown rules. Simply put, it was not decent. “The Mail has a need to stand up for the values of decency and in this respect Dominic Cummings was below the standards you would expect from someone at that level of office.”
Newspapers banned from No.10 briefings
Cummings is not really its cup of English breakfast tea. When his team tried to ban selected news outlets, including i, from Government briefings, Mail journalists boycotted in sympathy. One writer told me: “The Mail doesn’t like Cummings. His contempt for the press doesn’t help but that’s not the main reason – he’s a dangerous character and not really a Tory at all.” The paper wanted to “lead the conversation” on the Durham trip, which had transfixed Middle England. It led to the rare situation of the Mirror, Mail and Guardian singing from a shared hymn sheet calling for Cummings to go. They were joined by Metro, traditionally an apolitical title, which reacted to his refusal to apologise by changing the Government’s “Stay Alert” logo to “Stay Elite”.
This consensus probably encouraged BBC Newsnight to run with Emily Maitlis’s blistering criticism of the Government in Tuesday’s programme. The BBC’s prompt contrition, saying that Newsnight failed to meet “our standards of due impartiality”, undermined a flagship programme that has rediscovered its vim. When the BBC buckles so readily (in contrast to Cummings’s refusal to admit wrong) it hardly encourages its journalists to stand up to those in power by breaking stories and not merely following up, or relaying Downing Street rebuttals of, the reporting of other outlets.
A less powerful press
The BBC’s rebuke of Maitlis, together with the ambiguity in Durham Police’s statement on his “minor” breach of lockdown rules, gave Cummings an escape route.
The press is far less powerful than it once was and, sensing this was a battle it could not win, switched attention to the profits of the tech giants.
Cummings might be dismissive of mainstream media but it still carries influence among Tory MPs and core voters. The loyalty of the Sun, Express and Telegraph is not enough. He is wounded now and cannot afford another mistake.


inews--2020-06-01--When is Pride Month 2020? How the LGBTQ celebration is being marked in the UK, and meaning behind it

When is Pride Month 2020 ?
How the LGBTQ celebration is being marked in the UK , and meaning behind it Obviously , with the planet under the grip of the coronavirus breakout , public gatherings are a no-go this year But what is Pride ?
And how are the celebrations begin affected by Covid-19 this year ?
Every year , during the month of June - chosen because that is when the Stonewall Riots took place in 1969 - the LGBT+ community celebrates Pride in a number of different ways .
Various events are held across the globe during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the influence LGBT+ people have had throughout history .
As well as being a month-long celebration packed with events , Pride is an opportunity to peacefully protest and raise political awareness of current issues facing the LGBT+ community and beyond .
How will it be celebrated in 2020 ?
Parades are a prominent feature of Pride month , and there are many street parties , community events , poetry readings , public speaking , street festivals and educational sessions , all of which are covered by mainstream media and attract millions of participants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own parades in places like London and Manchester , although these have understandably been cancelled this year .
Obviously , with the planet under the grip of the coronavirus pandemic , public gatherings are a no-go this year , and so many events have moved online .
People ride a tube escalator decorated with the Pride flag in London ( Photo : Getty ) Despite technically occurring in June , this year 's most prominent Pride events wo n't be kicking off until the end of the month , and will take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it would be joining forces with UK Black Pride , Stonewall and ParaPride to bring this year ’ s Pride celebrations completely online .
Dubbed Pride Inside , the virtual celebration will see artists , musicians , comedians , DJs and activists come together for a series of performances , talks and workshops honouring the LGBT+ community .
“ COVID-19 won ’ t stop us celebrating LGBT+ rights .
This year , Pride will be inside – in our homes and in our hearts , ” said Sen Raj , Amnesty International @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Around the world , the pandemic is having a disproportionate effect on LGBTI+ people who have been historically discriminated against in their access to healthcare , housing and employment . ''
Who will be involved ?
“ That ’ s why this year , it ’ s more important than ever that LGBTI+ people and their allies have a chance to come together , celebrate how far we ’ ve come as a movement and support each other where we still have further to go , '' added Raj .

The month of June sees Pride Month take place across the globe.
But what is Pride? And how are the celebrations begin affected by Covid-19 this year?
Here’s everything you need to know.
What is Pride?
Every year, during the month of June – chosen because that is when the Stonewall Riots took place in 1969 – the LGBT+ community celebrates Pride in a number of different ways.
Various events are held across the globe during the month as a way of recognising the influence LGBT+ people have had throughout history.
As well as being a month-long celebration packed with events, Pride is an opportunity to peacefully protest and raise political awareness of current issues facing the LGBT+ community and beyond.
How will it be celebrated in 2020?
Parades are a prominent feature of Pride month, and there are many street parties, community events, poetry readings, public speaking, street festivals and educational sessions, all of which are covered by mainstream media and attract millions of participants.
Usually, major UK cities hold their own parades in places like London and Manchester, although these have understandably been cancelled this year.
Obviously, with the planet under the grip of the coronavirus pandemic, public gatherings are a no-go this year, and so many events have moved online.
What’s happening this year?
Despite technically occurring in June, this year’s most prominent Pride events won’t be kicking off until the end of the month, and will take place primarily online.
Amnesty International announced that it would be joining forces with UK Black Pride, Stonewall and ParaPride to bring this year’s Pride celebrations completely online.
Dubbed Pride Inside, the virtual celebration will see artists, musicians, comedians, DJs and activists come together for a series of performances, talks and workshops honouring the LGBT+ community.
“COVID-19 won’t stop us celebrating LGBT+ rights. This year, Pride will be inside – in our homes and in our hearts,” said Sen Raj, Amnesty International’s Rainbow Network committee member.
“Around the world, the pandemic is having a disproportionate effect on LGBTI+ people who have been historically discriminated against in their access to healthcare, housing and employment.”
The events will begin on Sunday 28 June and run until Sunday 5 July.
Who will be involved?
“That’s why this year, it’s more important than ever that LGBTI+ people and their allies have a chance to come together, celebrate how far we’ve come as a movement and support each other where we still have further to go,” added Raj.
“We invite all friends and allies to join us for Pride Inside to show that we’ll always be proud – no matter what, no matter where.”
The lineup for Pride Inside will be announced in the near future.


inews--2020-06-01--Coronavirus latest: Britons most vulnerable to Covid-19 face added threat of heat exhaustion

Coronavirus latest : Britons most vulnerable to Covid-19 face added threat of heat exhaustion Health service faces twin threats of extreme weather and coronavirus this summer , experts warn Vulnerable people shielding from coronavirus are facing the twin threat of a deadly virus and extreme heat this summer .
Experts this week warned the world is entering the seasonal “ danger zone ” for extreme weather , with Britain bracing for heatwaves and wildfires .
Last year ’ s heatwaves , which saw temperatures approach 40C , caused almost 900 excess deaths in England according to Public Health England .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Those most at risk from heat exhaustion - the elderly , and people with heart and kidney problems - also fall into the most vulnerable group for Covid-19 .
Smoke inhalation from wildfires also increases the risk from coronavirus , doctors have said .
The Global Heat Health Information Network , which is backed by the World Health Organisation and the World Meteorological Organisation , this week warned the standard measures to prevent heat deaths , such as moving people to public air conditioned buildings and arranging home visits to assess those at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ midst of a pandemic .
Healthcare experts warned authorities must urgently draw up alternative plans to cope with extreme heat and wildfires across the UK , without undermining efforts to control Covid-19 .
`` After the driest May on record , older people and other vulnerable populations may be at risk from the often deadly heat waves we increasingly see each summer , ” said Dr Nick Watts , executive director of the Lancet ’ s climate change initiative , the Lancet Countdown .
“ A heatwave coupled with a second wave of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our already overburdened doctors , nurses and other key workers , ” he warned .
Air pollution from wildfires increases the threat posed by Covid-19 ( Photo : Anthony Devlin/Getty ) In the long run , experts agree more must be done to prepare Britain 's infrastructure for wetter winters and extreme summer heat .
The government ’ s climate advisers , the Committee on Climate Change , has repeatedly warned the UK ’ s building stock will not cope with future heatwaves caused by climate change .
It has called for developers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ventilation to keep residents cool in warmer months .

Vulnerable people shielding from coronavirus are facing the twin threat of a deadly virus and extreme heat this summer.
Experts this week warned the world is entering the seasonal “danger zone” for extreme weather, with Britain bracing for heatwaves and wildfires.
Last year’s heatwaves, which saw temperatures approach 40C, caused almost 900 excess deaths in England according to Public Health England.
This year the threat is higher. Those most at risk from heat exhaustion – the elderly, and people with heart and kidney problems – also fall into the most vulnerable group for Covid-19. Smoke inhalation from wildfires also increases the risk from coronavirus, doctors have said.
New plans needed
The Global Heat Health Information Network, which is backed by the World Health Organisation and the World Meteorological Organisation, this week warned the standard measures to prevent heat deaths, such as moving people to public air conditioned buildings and arranging home visits to assess those at risk, may prove impossible in the midst of a pandemic.
Healthcare experts warned authorities must urgently draw up alternative plans to cope with extreme heat and wildfires across the UK, without undermining efforts to control Covid-19.
“After the driest May on record, older people and other vulnerable populations may be at risk from the often deadly heat waves we increasingly see each summer,” said Dr Nick Watts, executive director of the Lancet’s climate change initiative, the Lancet Countdown.
“A heatwave coupled with a second wave of Covid-19 infections would put enormous strain on our already overburdened doctors, nurses and other key workers,” he warned.
Better design
In the long run, experts agree more must be done to prepare Britain’s infrastructure for wetter winters and extreme summer heat.
The government’s climate advisers, the Committee on Climate Change, has repeatedly warned the UK’s building stock will not cope with future heatwaves caused by climate change. It has called for developers to design new homes with better natural ventilation to keep residents cool in warmer months.


inews--2020-06-01--Prostate cancer now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK

Prostate cancer now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK Some 57,192 new cases diagnosed in 2018 — the most recent data available — just ahead of 57,153 breast cancer cases Data analysed by Prostate Cancer UK shows there were 57,192 new cases in 2018 - the most recent data available - just ahead of 57,153 breast cancer cases , 48,054 cases of lung cancer and 42,879 of bowel cancer .
The news comes a decade earlier than previously predicted , largely due to increased awareness which has led to more men getting diagnosed , according to the charity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and comedian Stephen Fry , who have spoken out about their experiences with prostate cancer in recent years , have been credited with helping to steadily break the taboo of men talking openly about the disease and seeking help .
More prostate cancers are now being caught at stage III - the locally advanced stage - when the disease is more treatable than if it has spread .
However , more men are also being diagnosed at early stage I , when the cancer may never cause harm during their lifetime , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is recommended .
Bill Turnbull revealed he is suffering from prostate cancer after appearing on The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up to Cancer ( Photo : Matt Crossick/PA Wire ) Analysis of the new figures suggests new cases of prostate cancer have more than doubled over the last 20 years , while around 400,000 men in the UK are currently living with the disease or have survived it .
Men who are most at risk are those aged 50 and over , black men and men with a family history of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for men with prostate cancer are better than ever , with men diagnosed today two-and-a-half times more likely to live for 10 years or more than if they were diagnosed in 1990 .
Yet due mainly to an increasing and ageing population , the number of men dying from the disease is growing : more men die of prostate cancer every year than women die of breast cancer .
Despite its prevalence , funding for ongoing prostate cancer research is much lower than other forms of the disease - receiving just £13m from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breast , lung and bowel cancer , which received £28m , £25m and £24m respectively .
And Prostate Cancer UK warned that the Covid-19 pandemic is leading to a reduction in referrals for the disease , just like all types of cancer .
There is no screening programme for prostate cancer in the UK as it has not been proved that the benefits would outweigh the risks , so the charity is launching an appeal to develop one and restore research funding lost due to the pandemic .
Angela Culhane , chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` While it 's good news that more men have been having conversations with their GPs and being diagnosed earlier , it only serves to reinforce the need not only for better treatments which can cure the disease , but for better tests that can differentiate between aggressive prostate cancer that needs urgent treatment and those which are unlikely to ever cause any harm .
`` We need research now more than ever , which is why it really is devastating that so much of it has been brought to a standstill by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recover from this major setback will cost millions , but at the same time we 're predicting an unprecedented drop in our fundraising due to the impact of the pandemic . ''
`` But with prostate cancer now the UK 's most commonly diagnosed cancer , what we urgently need now is the research to make sure that men get the best tests and treatments possible , '' he said .
`` Sadly , Covid-19 has interrupted so much of this crucial research , which is why I 'm supporting Prostate Cancer UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult time for many of us , but anything you can do will go a long way to making sure we do n't lose momentum in the fight against prostate cancer . ''

Prostate cancer has overtaken breast cancer to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, according to new figures.
Data analysed by Prostate Cancer UK shows there were 57,192 new cases in 2018 – the most recent data available – just ahead of 57,153 breast cancer cases, 48,054 cases of lung cancer and 42,879 of bowel cancer. The news comes a decade earlier than previously predicted, largely due to increased awareness which has led to more men getting diagnosed, according to the charity.
BBC presenter Bill Turnbull and actor and comedian Stephen Fry, who have spoken out about their experiences with prostate cancer in recent years, have been credited with helping to steadily break the taboo of men talking openly about the disease and seeking help.
More prostate cancers are now being caught at stage III – the locally advanced stage – when the disease is more treatable than if it has spread. However, more men are also being diagnosed at early stage I, when the cancer may never cause harm during their lifetime, and therefore close monitoring rather than aggressive treatment is recommended.
Analysis of the new figures suggests new cases of prostate cancer have more than doubled over the last 20 years, while around 400,000 men in the UK are currently living with the disease or have survived it. Men who are most at risk are those aged 50 and over, black men and men with a family history of the disease.
Long term survival
However, the prospects for men with prostate cancer are better than ever, with men diagnosed today two-and-a-half times more likely to live for 10 years or more than if they were diagnosed in 1990. Yet due mainly to an increasing and ageing population, the number of men dying from the disease is growing: more men die of prostate cancer every year than women die of breast cancer.
Despite its prevalence, funding for ongoing prostate cancer research is much lower than other forms of the disease – receiving just £13m from Cancer Research UK in 2019 compared with breast, lung and bowel cancer, which received £28m, £25m and £24m respectively.
And Prostate Cancer UK warned that the Covid-19 pandemic is leading to a reduction in referrals for the disease, just like all types of cancer. There is no screening programme for prostate cancer in the UK as it has not been proved that the benefits would outweigh the risks, so the charity is launching an appeal to develop one and restore research funding lost due to the pandemic.
Angela Culhane, chief executive of Prostate Cancer UK, said: “While it’s good news that more men have been having conversations with their GPs and being diagnosed earlier, it only serves to reinforce the need not only for better treatments which can cure the disease, but for better tests that can differentiate between aggressive prostate cancer that needs urgent treatment and those which are unlikely to ever cause any harm.
“We need research now more than ever, which is why it really is devastating that so much of it has been brought to a standstill by the Covid-19 crisis. Accelerating research to recover from this major setback will cost millions, but at the same time we’re predicting an unprecedented drop in our fundraising due to the impact of the pandemic.”
Mr Turnbull said he was humbled to think that sharing his prostate cancer experience may have helped more men come forward to seek help.
“But with prostate cancer now the UK’s most commonly diagnosed cancer, what we urgently need now is the research to make sure that men get the best tests and treatments possible,” he said.
“Sadly, Covid-19 has interrupted so much of this crucial research, which is why I’m supporting Prostate Cancer UK’s fundraising efforts. It’s a difficult time for many of us, but anything you can do will go a long way to making sure we don’t lose momentum in the fight against prostate cancer.”


inews--2020-06-01--Coronavirus lockdown: Police officers do not have power to enforce some of the new measures

Coronavirus lockdown : Police officers do not have power to enforce some of the new measures Police representatives have also warned that elements of the new measures in England are 'unenforceable' But as a second professional body warned that new rules in England , including allowing up to six people from two households to gather outdoors , could “ pose an undue risk to public health ” , evidence was emerging that adherence to the two-metre social distancing rule is beginning to fray .
Nicola Sturgeon said she was 'nervous ' about the impact of the changes ( Photo : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nicola Sturgeon revealed that police issued nearly 800 dispersal notices on Saturday as thousands took to the roads to enjoy sunny weather .
The figure was five times higher than the total for the previous Saturday .
Police representatives have also warned that elements of the new measures in England are “ unenforceable ” after the weekend saw thousands flock to beaches and beauty spots during hot weather expected to continue at least until Tuesday .
The warning came as a detailed document released to police forces in England made clear that officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a home that is not their own .
New regulations which came into force in England on Monday allow up to six people from two households to meet in an open space such as a park or private garden as long as they maintain the two-metre rule .
But staying overnight anywhere other than an individual ’ s normal home remains illegal .
The guidance released on Monday on enforcing this ban , issued by the National Police Chiefs Council and the College of Policing , states : “ You may only direct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are no powers in the Regulations to remove someone or use force .
Fixed-penalty notices and arrest still apply , where appropriate.
” Senior officers have privately expressed concern that forces are being asked to enforce rules that contain too many exceptions or which they simply do not have the personnel to oversee .
Ken Marsh , chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation , which represents rank and file officers , said : “ I don ’ t think the public are taking much notice of what is laid down in front of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they want to do it .
In terms of it being enforceable , I don ’ t think it is.
” The body representing environmental health officers joined the Association of Directors of Public Health in warning that the package of measures including allowing two households to mix and the opening of non-essential shops - so-called Phase Two of the Covid-19 response - was potentially being implemented too quickly , in particular before an effective “ test and trace ” system was fully in place .
The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phase Two could be “ premature and pose an undue risk to public health ” .
Footfall rises by more than a third =The Swedish furniture giant Ikea has long looked to a one-way system to move people through its stores ( Photo : Getty ) But Downing Street insisted that it was acting on scientific consensus that the easing measures were “ unlikely ” to push the “ R ” rate of Covid-19 transmission past the crucial level of one , above which infections start to multiply .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The consensus from the scientists is that if test and trace is up and running and the public follow the social distancing guidance then it ’ s unlikely the measures will push the R above one.
” She said : “ It ’ s worth being clear… that if there is continued evidence of even a minority not abiding by these guidelines and travelling unnecessarily - if people meet up in larger groups or if they ’ re making journeys which risk spreading this virus - we will have to put these restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law .
”

Concern was mounting on Monday that social distancing rules are being flouted amid the “premature” relaxation of lockdown as it emerged that police have no power to enforce some aspects of new coronavirus regulations.
Ministers have insisted lockdown regulations are being eased in a “very cautious” manner and do not represent a “dash” to limit damage to the economy.
But as a second professional body warned that new rules in England, including allowing up to six people from two households to gather outdoors, could “pose an undue risk to public health”, evidence was emerging that adherence to the two-metre social distancing rule is beginning to fray.
Dispersal notices
Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon revealed that police issued nearly 800 dispersal notices on Saturday as thousands took to the roads to enjoy sunny weather. The figure was five times higher than the total for the previous Saturday.
Police representatives have also warned that elements of the new measures in England are “unenforceable” after the weekend saw thousands flock to beaches and beauty spots during hot weather expected to continue at least until Tuesday.
The warning came as a detailed document released to police forces in England made clear that officers cannot physically compel someone to leave a home that is not their own.
New regulations which came into force in England on Monday allow up to six people from two households to meet in an open space such as a park or private garden as long as they maintain the two-metre rule. But staying overnight anywhere other than an individual’s normal home remains illegal.
Too many exceptions
The guidance released on Monday on enforcing this ban, issued by the National Police Chiefs Council and the College of Policing, states: “You may only direct a person to return home. There are no powers in the Regulations to remove someone or use force. Fixed-penalty notices and arrest still apply, where appropriate.”
Senior officers have privately expressed concern that forces are being asked to enforce rules that contain too many exceptions or which they simply do not have the personnel to oversee.
Ken Marsh, chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers, said: “I don’t think the public are taking much notice of what is laid down in front of them. They are doing it how they want to do it. In terms of it being enforceable, I don’t think it is.”
‘Undue risk to public health’
The body representing environmental health officers joined the Association of Directors of Public Health in warning that the package of measures including allowing two households to mix and the opening of non-essential shops – so-called Phase Two of the Covid-19 response – was potentially being implemented too quickly, in particular before an effective “test and trace” system was fully in place.
The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health said it was concerned that the move to Phase Two could be “premature and pose an undue risk to public health”.
Business Secretary Alok Sharma insisted that criticism that the Government was relaxing restrictions too widely and too quickly – and thereby risking a second peak – were not justified.
He told BBC Breakfast News: “This is not a dash. These are very cautious steps that we are taking. They are phased.”
Footfall rises by more than a third
Retailers reported a 36 per cent increase in footfall on Monday as outlets from open air markets to Ikea re-opened.
But Downing Street insisted that it was acting on scientific consensus that the easing measures were “unlikely” to push the “R” rate of Covid-19 transmission past the crucial level of one, above which infections start to multiply.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s official spokesman said: “The consensus from the scientists is that if test and trace is up and running and the public follow the social distancing guidance then it’s unlikely the measures will push the R above one.”
New powers
In Scotland, however, Ms Sturgeon said there was ample evidence that cases could still multiply and she would not hesitate to enshrine in law new powers to stop anyone flouting rules.
She said: “It’s worth being clear… that if there is continued evidence of even a minority not abiding by these guidelines and travelling unnecessarily – if people meet up in larger groups or if they’re making journeys which risk spreading this virus – we will have to put these restrictions on group size and travel distance into law.”


inews--2020-06-01--Backlash over decision to cap English student numbers going to universities in Scotland, Wales and N

Backlash over decision to cap English student numbers going to universities in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Backlash over decision to cap English student numbers going to universities in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland If universities in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland breach the cap they will see the tuition fees paid by the Government tapered away Glasgow University is among the institutions which will be hit by the UK Government 's cap on English students going to universities in the other nations of the UK ( Photo : Jeff J Mitchell/Getty ) A row has erupted over plans by the UK Government to cap the number of English students going to universities in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ idea has prompted an angry backlash amid claims the UK Government is trampling on devolution ( Photo : Dan Kitwood/Getty ) However , the Government has said it will also cap the number of students living in England going to universities in the other nations of the UK .
If universities breaches their cap they will see the tuition fees paid by the Government tapered away .
Diane Dodds , economy minister in the Northern Irish Executive , said : “ I am shocked and concerned that another jurisdiction is seeking to control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the impact that this may have on our local sector.
” She added : “ I believe that this proposal has the potential to break up the unified higher education market within the United Kingdom in terms of access to study based on student choice and academic achievement it is a dangerous precedent to set and one I am wholly opposed to . ''
“ I respect decision making in and for England just as I do for the other governments in the UK '' , Ms Williams said .
Ms Donelan said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extremely difficult and anxious time for students , universities and their staff , which is why we have introduced student number controls to stabilise the admissions system and protect higher education from the financial impact of Covid-19 . ''
The coronavirus crisis has been disastrous for UK universities .
Many institutions are predicting their international students will collapse by more than half this autumn , leaving a huge financial blackhole .
Given the loss in this revenue , the UK Government feared many universities would instead resort to “ over-recruitment ” of domestic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some universities gobbled up lots more students , it could push others into bankruptcy .
To stop this , in 2020-21 English universities will only be able to recruit full-time undergraduate UK and EU students up to a temporary set level , based on their forecasts for the next academic year , plus an additional 5 per cent .

A row has erupted over plans by the UK Government to cap the number of English students going to universities in the other nations of the UK.
The administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland condemned the move as “deeply disappointing” and said it could “break up” Britain’s higher education system.
Last month the Westminster Government announced a rescue package to help universities in England cope with the coronavirus crisis.
The package includes a temporary “student number controls” – a cap on how many students each university can recruit.
‘Deeply disappointing’
However, the Government has said it will also cap the number of students living in England going to universities in the other nations of the UK. If universities breaches their cap they will see the tuition fees paid by the Government tapered away.
The idea has prompted an angry backlash amid claims the UK Government is trampling on devolution.
In Scotland, higher education minister Richard Lochhead called it “deeply disappointing”.
Diane Dodds, economy minister in the Northern Irish Executive, said: “I am shocked and concerned that another jurisdiction is seeking to control student numbers here in Northern Ireland and the impact that this may have on our local sector.”
‘Dangerous precedent’
She added: “I believe that this proposal has the potential to break up the unified higher education market within the United Kingdom in terms of access to study based on student choice and academic achievement it is a dangerous precedent to set and one I am wholly opposed to.”
Kirsty Williams, minister for education in Wales, revealed that she discussed the issue with Michelle Donelan, the UK Government’s universities minister, on Monday.
“I respect decision making in and for England just as I do for the other governments in the UK”, Ms Williams said.
“Quite simply, I expect the same respect from the minister. I will continue to consider my options.”
Ms Donelan said: “I know this is an extremely difficult and anxious time for students, universities and their staff, which is why we have introduced student number controls to stabilise the admissions system and protect higher education from the financial impact of Covid-19.”
The coronavirus crisis has been disastrous for UK universities. Many institutions are predicting their international students will collapse by more than half this autumn, leaving a huge financial blackhole.
Given the loss in this revenue, the UK Government feared many universities would instead resort to “over-recruitment” of domestic students.
The danger was that if some universities gobbled up lots more students, it could push others into bankruptcy.
To stop this, in 2020-21 English universities will only be able to recruit full-time undergraduate UK and EU students up to a temporary set level, based on their forecasts for the next academic year, plus an additional 5 per cent.
However, there are suspicions this cap may turn out not just to be temporary.
The Government is understood to think that many university courses are poor value, and there are rumours it could make the cap permanent in order to funnel more money towards further education colleges.


inews--2020-06-01--Coronavirus: Staying one metre apart and wearing a face mask is the 'best way' to stop spread

Coronavirus : Staying one metre apart and wearing a face mask is the 'best way ' to stop spread Researchers looked at data from studies across Sars , Mers and Covid-19 , involving thousands of people Staying one metre apart , combined with wearing face masks and eye protection , could be the best way to avoid Covid-19 infection or transmission - but two metres might be even better , a study suggests .
Researchers looked at data from studies across Sars , Mers and Covid-19 , involving thousands of people .
Thirteen studies focusing on eye protection found that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were associated with lower risk of infection , compared with no eye covering .
The risk of infection or transmission when wearing eye protection was 6 per cent , and 16 per cent when not wearing eye protection .
Evidence from 10 studies also found similar benefits for face masks in general , with risk of infection or transmission when wearing a mask 3 per cent , and 17 per cent when not wearing a mask .
The risk of infection when people stand more than a metre away from the infected individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and 13 per cent if within a metre , researchers found .
However , according to the analysis published in The Lancet , modelling suggests for every extra metre further away up to three metres , the risk of infection or transmission may halve .
Former ministers Norman Lamont and Theresa Villiers added their names to the growing chorus of parliamentary figures calling for the two metre social distancing rule to be reduced in order to save jobs .
Both Mr Lamont , a former chancellor , and Ms Villiers , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the smaller social distancing recommendations seen in other countries as cause for the Government to urgently reduce the UK 's recommended distance .
Mr Lamont cites British Beer and Pub Association figures showing that , with the current two metre rule , only `` 20 to 30 per cent of premises will be able to open at a sustainable level ... At one metre , it hits 70 per cent .
`` The onus is on the ( Government 's ) advisers to explain why it is that , while Britons must stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Organisation recommends one metre - as do many other European countries , acting on their scientists ' advice . ''
Professor Holger Schunemann from McMaster University in Canada , who co-led the research , said : `` Our findings are the first to synthesise all direct information on Covid-19 , Sars , and Mers , and provide the currently best available evidence on the optimum use of these common and simple interventions to help 'flatten the curve ' and inform pandemic response efforts in the community .
`` Governments and the public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear advice for community settings and healthcare workers on these protective measures to reduce infection risk . ''
None of these interventions - even when properly used and combined - give complete protection from infection , the researchers said .
They noted the certainty of the evidence around face masks and eye protection is low .
The study , conducted to inform WHO guidance documents , looked at the available evidence from the scientific literature and is the first time researchers have systematically examined the optimum use of these protective measures in both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The authors said their findings have immediate and important implications for curtailing the current pandemic , and future waves , by informing disease models , and standardising the definition of who has been `` potentially exposed '' for contact tracing .

Staying one metre apart, combined with wearing face masks and eye protection, could be the best way to avoid Covid-19 infection or transmission – but two metres might be even better, a study suggests.
Researchers looked at data from studies across Sars, Mers and Covid-19, involving thousands of people. Thirteen studies focusing on eye protection found that face shields, goggles, and glasses were associated with lower risk of infection, compared with no eye covering. The risk of infection or transmission when wearing eye protection was 6 per cent, and 16 per cent when not wearing eye protection.
Evidence from 10 studies also found similar benefits for face masks in general, with risk of infection or transmission when wearing a mask 3 per cent, and 17 per cent when not wearing a mask.
The risk of infection when people stand more than a metre away from the infected individual was found to be 3 per cent, and 13 per cent if within a metre, researchers found. However, according to the analysis published in The Lancet, modelling suggests for every extra metre further away up to three metres, the risk of infection or transmission may halve.
UK advice
In the UK people are advised to keep a distance of two metres from others, but there have been calls to reduce this to 1.5 metres – like in Germany, in order to help the hospitality sector reopen. Places such as theatres, pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues could be hit hard by the two-metre rule, which would severely restrict the number of people allowed inside. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends people maintain a distance of at least one metre between each other.
Former ministers Norman Lamont and Theresa Villiers added their names to the growing chorus of parliamentary figures calling for the two metre social distancing rule to be reduced in order to save jobs. Both Mr Lamont, a former chancellor, and Ms Villiers, a former environment secretary, have pointed to the smaller social distancing recommendations seen in other countries as cause for the Government to urgently reduce the UK’s recommended distance.
Mr Lamont cites British Beer and Pub Association figures showing that, with the current two metre rule, only “20 to 30 per cent of premises will be able to open at a sustainable level…At one metre, it hits 70 per cent.
“The onus is on the (Government’s) advisers to explain why it is that, while Britons must stay two metres apart, the World Health Organisation recommends one metre – as do many other European countries, acting on their scientists’ advice.”
Professor Holger Schunemann from McMaster University in Canada, who co-led the research, said: “Our findings are the first to synthesise all direct information on Covid-19, Sars, and Mers, and provide the currently best available evidence on the optimum use of these common and simple interventions to help ‘flatten the curve’ and inform pandemic response efforts in the community.
“Governments and the public health community can use our results to give clear advice for community settings and healthcare workers on these protective measures to reduce infection risk.”
None of these interventions – even when properly used and combined – give complete protection from infection, the researchers said. They noted the certainty of the evidence around face masks and eye protection is low.
The study, conducted to inform WHO guidance documents, looked at the available evidence from the scientific literature and is the first time researchers have systematically examined the optimum use of these protective measures in both community and healthcare settings for Covid-19.
The authors said their findings have immediate and important implications for curtailing the current pandemic, and future waves, by informing disease models, and standardising the definition of who has been “potentially exposed” for contact tracing.