inews--2020-04-26--Wales lockdown rules: Why some coronavirus restrictions are tougher and others could be lifted soone

Wales lockdown rules: Why some coronavirus restrictions are tougher and others could be lifted sooner - and when it is expected to end

Wales lockdown rules : Why some coronavirus restrictions are tougher and others could be lifted sooner - and when it is expected to end Here 's what the unveiled plans to reduce lockdown measures in Wales look like - and the new rules coming in for the country this weekend Two butchers wearing protective masks are pictured at David Lush Butchers on April 16 , 2020 in Penarth , Wales .
The Coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) pandemic has spread to many countries across the world , claiming over 130,000 lives and infecting over 2 million people .
( Photo : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a position to ease its social distancing restrictions once the next three weeks of lockdown are over , the country 's First Minister has said .
Mark Drakeford told BBC Radio Wales he plans to introduce a `` reversed traffic light system '' to reduce the measures in the country , with green being the last stop before fully lifting the restrictions .
How does the traffic light system work ?
The red zone is designed to enact a controlled and strict removal of some measures , but will only happen if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 14 days , '' the First Minister said .
The amber zone will mark further easing of restrictions , and if the virus is not re-emerging , Wales could then move to the green zone , which would look similar to life before the coronavirus , BBC News reported .
The ways in which different restrictions could be lifted have not yet been specified .
Currently , the number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus has reached 641 in Wales , with 17 new deaths reported on Thursday .
Public Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive for the virus to bring the total to 8,358 people .
`` They have been falling over the last week , so it 's not impossible that we will get to that point , and in that case we can move into the red zone , '' he told BBC Radio Wales .
`` I hope we will be in a position to do that at the end of the current three-week lockdown period , '' he added .
Further restrictions brought in first The seven questions include whether easing would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease , if there would be a low risk of infection , and whether any relaxed restrictions could be enforced .
But before the restrictions are eased , Wales will have to follow an additional raft of rules being introduced this weekend .
New regulations , which will apply to the current lockdown in Wales , will require people who leave their homes to exercise or shop for food not to remain outside after completing their activity .
The Welsh Government has also asked Wales ' four police forces to advise it over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelling to second homes or to local beuty spots for daily exercise needs to be strengthened .
But concessions will be made for people with health problems and disabilities , including learning disabilities and autism , to allow them to exercise more than once a day .
What are the new rules ?
Announcing the changes , Mr Drakeford said : `` The changes we are introducing supplement the rules already in force but they respond to some challenges being faced in parts of the country and by families throughout Wales .

Wales could be in a position to ease its social distancing restrictions once the next three weeks of lockdown are over, the country’s First Minister has said.
Mark Drakeford told BBC Radio Wales he plans to introduce a “reversed traffic light system” to reduce the measures in the country, with green being the last stop before fully lifting the restrictions.
How does the traffic light system work?
The proposed traffic light system would stagger the reduction in lockdown restrictions through three stages: the red zone, the amber zone, and the green zone.
The red zone is designed to enact a controlled and strict removal of some measures, but will only happen if hospital admissions are “falling consistently for 14 days,” the First Minister said.
The amber zone will mark further easing of restrictions, and if the virus is not re-emerging, Wales could then move to the green zone, which would look similar to life before the coronavirus, BBC News reported. The ways in which different restrictions could be lifted have not yet been specified.
Currently, the number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus has reached 641 in Wales, with 17 new deaths reported on Thursday. Public Health Wales confirmed 234 additional people have tested positive for the virus to bring the total to 8,358 people.
“They have been falling over the last week, so it’s not impossible that we will get to that point, and in that case we can move into the red zone,” he told BBC Radio Wales.
“I hope we will be in a position to do that at the end of the current three-week lockdown period,” he added.
Further restrictions brought in first
On Friday Mr Drakeford will set out seven key questions which will determine when stay-at-home restrictions can be relaxed.
The seven questions include whether easing would have an effect on the spread of the disease, if there would be a low risk of infection, and whether any relaxed restrictions could be enforced.
But before the restrictions are eased, Wales will have to follow an additional raft of rules being introduced this weekend.
New regulations, which will apply to the current lockdown in Wales, will require people who leave their homes to exercise or shop for food not to remain outside after completing their activity.
The Welsh Government has also asked Wales‘ four police forces to advise it over whether existing requirements to prevent people from travelling to second homes or to local beuty spots for daily exercise needs to be strengthened.
But concessions will be made for people with health problems and disabilities, including learning disabilities and autism, to allow them to exercise more than once a day.
What are the new rules?
Other changes which will come into force on Saturday, include:
Applying the two-metre social distancing rule on premises used for “click and collect” services.
Extending the two-metre social distancing rule to cafes in hospitals, canteens in schools, prisons, and for use by the armed forces.
Widening the definition of a vulnerable person to include other specific groups or conditions where people could benefit from assistance, including people with dementia.
Announcing the changes, Mr Drakeford said: “The changes we are introducing supplement the rules already in force but they respond to some challenges being faced in parts of the country and by families throughout Wales.
“Our message has not changed – anyone can get coronavirus, anyone can spread it. So please, stay home, protect the NHS, and save lives.”
Additional reporting by Press Association


inews--2020-04-26--When will hairdressers reopen? Latest on UK coronavirus lockdown closures after 'government warns sa

When will hairdressers reopen? Latest on UK coronavirus lockdown closures after 'government warns salons could shut for six months'

When will hairdressers reopen ?
Latest on UK coronavirus lockdown closures after 'government warns salons could shut for six months' Latest on UK coronavirus lockdown closures after 'government warns salons could stay shut for six months' As hairdressers and barber shops remain temporarily closed , many across the UK have been getting creative with cutting their own hair at home - with some interesting results .
But when are hairdressers due to open ?
Here ’ s what you need to know .
The Metro recently reported that senior ministers are pushing a so-called ‘ traffic light ’ system to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , small shops could be allowed to reopen first , alongside hairdressers and nurseries .
Schools would also begin to reopen .
This would start with primary , GCSE and A Level students able to go back part-time .
However , the public would still be urged to avoid non-essential travel .
Next in the phase could then be restaurants , with all pupils able to go back to school with social distancing measures in place .
Companies with fewer than 50 staff would be able to reopen and people could be allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks .
Could salons be shut for a long time ?
It depends what phase of the re-opening they are included in .
According to reports , hair and beauty salons could remain shut for six months or potentially longer , after government scientists advised that there is not a safe way for them to reopen .
However , other countries that have begun to ease their lockdowns , such as Denmark , have permitted hairdressers to open in the first phase .
It is estimated that 60 per cent of hairdressers are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government ’ s furlough scheme .
They can , however , draw on a second Treasury wage scheme which is for the self-employed .
Self-employed workers do n't need to apply to it , as HMRC will contact those who are eligible for the payout by mid-May .
Citizens Advice explains that “ if your income has dropped because of coronavirus , you might be able to get money from the government .
“ You could get 80 per cent of your average profits up to a maximum of £2,500 per month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Support Scheme .
“ If you 're eligible , you can get money to cover until at least the end of June 2020.
” How can I support my local hairdresser ?
A good way to support your local hair salon is to buy a gift voucher now that you can use there when they reopen .
Hairdressers will also be very busy when they do reopen , so if your salon does have a waiting list , then it ’ s worth putting your name down now .
L'Oréal Professionnel , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a COVID-19 support guide to help salon owners , employees , and self-employed hair stylists who are currently out of work .

Hairdressers and barber shops across the UK are reopening from July 4, amid a raft of changes to lockdown restrictions that include the reopening of museums, galleries and cinemas, plus relief for the hospitality sector, with pubs, restaurants and hotels allowed to start trading again.
Since March, hairdressers have remained temporarily closed, with many across the UK getting creative with cutting their own hair at home – with some very interesting results.
Now they are set to reopen, but with extra security measures in place. Here’s what you need to know.
When do hairdressers reopen?
Hairdressers had been named among the businesses able to reopen from July 4, to the relief of families who have been managing with DIY haircuts and shaggier locks.
This is in line with the government’s “phase three” of lockdown, in which hospitality businesses, some entertainment venues and hairdressers might be able to reopen.
The decision to reopen salons comes as part of Boris Johnsons blueprint for a gradual easing of the coronavirus lockdown in England, which saw primary schools, nurseries and shops partially reopening from 1 June.
Although it was originally thought that hairdressers could be among the first businesses to reopen, Dominic Raab revealed that they will not open until July at the earliest.
This is in line with the plans for some cafes or restaurants with outdoor space, and places or worship and socially distanced cinemas.
When Nicola Sturgeon unveiled a four-phase route map to ease Scotland out of lockdown restrictions, she said retail services including hairdressers are not expected to be allowed to open for bookings again until phase three of the plan.
What safety measures will be in place?
Hairdressers and barbers have been advised to wear protective visors when they reopen after July 4.
Other precautions are expected, such as discussing the appointment in the mirror and avoiding smalltalk during the haircut to reduce the amount of face-to-face time.
The National Hair and Beauty Federation has advised salons to be clear in their messaging to customers about the health and safety measures in place.
What about wages?
It is estimated that 60 per cent of hairdressers are freelance, making them ineligible for the government’s furlough scheme.
They can, however, draw on a second Treasury wage scheme which is for the self-employed. Self-employed workers don’t need to apply to it, as HMRC will contact those who are eligible for the payout by mid-May.
Citizens Advice explains that “if your income has dropped because of coronavirus, you might be able to get money from the government.
“You could get 80 per cent of your average profits up to a maximum of £2,500 per month. This is called the Self-employment Income Support Scheme.”
How can I support my local hairdresser?
A good way to support your local hair salon is to buy a gift voucher now that you can use there when they reopen.
Hairdressers will also be very busy when they do reopen, so if your salon does have a waiting list, then it’s worth putting your name down now.
L’Oréal Professionnel, the British Beauty Council patron, has released a COVID-19 support guide to help salon owners, employees, and self-employed hair stylists who are currently out of work.
The guide includes details on the current government measures, alongside information on how to claim benefits, HR and legal advice.


inews--2020-04-26--Is Miracle in Cell No. 7 a true story? How the Turkish film on Netflix was inspired by an award-winn

Is Miracle in Cell No. 7 a true story? How the Turkish film on Netflix was inspired by an award-winning South Korean original

Is Miracle in Cell No .
7 a true story ?
How the Turkish film on Netflix was inspired by an award-winning South Korean original The Turkish film , which has been trending on Netflix , is an adaptation of the South Korean original The film follows a young girl called Ova and her dad Memo who is wrongly accused of killing a young girl ( Photo : PR ) What is Miracle in Cell No 7 about ?
The Turkish film - Yedinci Kogustaki Mucize in its native language - was released in 2019 and tells the story of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ova and her dad Memo , who has a cognitive disorder .
The pair live happily until Memo is wrongly accused of killing a high-ranking military official 's daughter .
Memo ends up being sent to prison for the crime he did n't commit .
Despite being without her dad , Ova vows to prove his innocence .
She enlists the help of her great grandmother and school teachers to find the witness Memo claimed he saw when the high-ranking military official 's daughter suffered an accident and died .
The story continues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executed , but a series of flashback scenes prove that another prisoner - Yusuf Aga - took his place when he realised that Memo needed to be reunited with Ova .
Is Miracle in Cell No 7 a true story ?
The film is not based on a true story but it was inspired by a South Korean film that had the same name and was released in 2013 .
The film focuses on the bond between father and daughter ( Photo : PR ) What has the reaction to the film been @ @

As the lockdown continues, more and more people are delving through Netflix to find something to watch.
Alongside the streaming service’s array of popular documentaries and dramas, Miracle in Cell No 7, has risen through the ranks to become one of Netflix’s top trending movies.
Here’s all you need to know about Miracle in Cell No 7.
What is Miracle in Cell No 7 about?
The Turkish film – Yedinci Kogustaki Mucize in its native language – was released in 2019 and tells the story of the relationship between a young girl called Ova and her dad Memo, who has a cognitive disorder. The pair live happily until Memo is wrongly accused of killing a high-ranking military official’s daughter.
Memo ends up being sent to prison for the crime he didn’t commit. Despite being without her dad, Ova vows to prove his innocence. She enlists the help of her great grandmother and school teachers to find the witness Memo claimed he saw when the high-ranking military official’s daughter suffered an accident and died.
Meanwhile, in prison, Memo’s life goes from bad to worse when the prisoners turn against him and he’s sentenced to death by hanging when he’s found guilty of murder.
The story continues with the assumption that Memo has been executed, but a series of flashback scenes prove that another prisoner – Yusuf Aga – took his place when he realised that Memo needed to be reunited with Ova.
After being assisted out of jail, Memo and Ova are reunited and they sail away on a boat together to start a new life in a different country.
Is Miracle in Cell No 7 a true story?
The film is not based on a true story but it was inspired by a South Korean film that had the same name and was released in 2013.
However, unlike the Turkish version that pulls on the heartstrings, the original South Korean adaptation is more of a comedy-drama.
The popular film was also adapted and released in the Phillippines, Indonesia and India.
What has the reaction to the film been like?
After watching the film, many viewers took to social media to share their verdict.
“I just finished watching a miracle in cell no. 7 & let me just say I don’t think I’ve ever cried so much during a movie,” wrote one.
Another agreed when they posted on the social networking site: “Miracle in cell no. 7 made it known to the world that men can cry too.”
“So I watched this movie A miracle in cell No 7. I cried a lot. I’m not even ashamed to admit this,” a third Twitter user shared.
One viewer tweeted: “Miracle In Cell No. 7 is without a doubt an 11 out of 10. I haven’t cried like this in years. Work of art.”


inews--2020-04-26--Where was After Life Season 2 filmed? Filming locations for new series of Ricky Gervais' Netflix com

Where was After Life Season 2 filmed? Filming locations for new series of Ricky Gervais' Netflix comedy

Where was After Life Season 2 filmed ?
Filming locations for new series of Ricky Gervais ' Netflix comedy The small-town setting plays as much of a role in the show as any of the actors .
But where is it ?
The second series of the Netflix show once again follows journalist Tony ( played by Gervais ) , who is suicidal following the death of his wife , Lisa ( Kerry Godliman ) .
In Season 2 , we see Tony decide to try and become a better friend and colleague .
He realises that everyone is grappling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ learning the Tambury Gazette , where he works , faces possible closure - but he 's still really struggling with grief .
Despite its heavy subject matter , After Life is far from being nihilistic or pessimistic about the world ; it ’ s almost sunnily optimistic .
The small-town setting - with its close-knit community of quirky local residents - plays as much of a role in the show as any of the actors on screen .
Where was After Life Season 2 filmed ?
After Life is set in the small @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for any fans who are looking to visit the settlement for themselves - it does n't exist .
Instead , what you see on screen is actually an amalgamation of locations in Hampstead , Hemel Hempstead , Beaconsfield , and Camber Sands in East Sussex .
The Tambury Gazette ’ s fictional offices are located in the centre of Hemel Hempstead - specifically at 48 High Street , according to the Radio Times .
The street on which Tony lives with his dog Brandy is located in Vale of Health , a small @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the semi-rural spot it 's trying to play .
And the care home where Tony 's ailing father resides is actually the Old Town Registration Office in Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire .
When filming for Season 1 took place over the summer of 2018 , Michele Elliot , owner of the House of Elliot in Hemel Old Town , said at the time : “ It is really flattering that they would film up here .
“ They used the outside of my store and the film crew were lovely , '' she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a photo with the star and says he was really down to earth .
Who else is in the cast ?
When can I watch it ?

The second season of Ricky Gervais‘ surprisingly heartfelt grief comedy After Life arrived on Netflix in April.
The second series of the Netflix show once again follows journalist Tony (played by Gervais), who is suicidal following the death of his wife, Lisa (Kerry Godliman).
In Season 2, we see Tony decide to try and become a better friend and colleague.
He realises that everyone is grappling with their own problems – especially after learning the Tambury Gazette, where he works, faces possible closure – but he’s still really struggling with grief.
Despite its heavy subject matter, After Life is far from being nihilistic or pessimistic about the world; it’s almost sunnily optimistic.
The small-town setting – with its close-knit community of quirky local residents – plays as much of a role in the show as any of the actors on screen.
But just where is that?
Here’s everything you need to know:
Where was After Life Season 2 filmed?
After Life is set in the small town of Tambury. But bad news for any fans who are looking to visit the settlement for themselves – it doesn’t exist.
Instead, what you see on screen is actually an amalgamation of locations in Hampstead, Hemel Hempstead, Beaconsfield, and Camber Sands in East Sussex.
The Tambury Gazette’s fictional offices are located in the centre of Hemel Hempstead – specifically at 48 High Street, according to the Radio Times.
The street on which Tony lives with his dog Brandy is located in Vale of Health, a small hamlet in Hampstead in London – far from the semi-rural spot it’s trying to play.
And the care home where Tony’s ailing father resides is actually the Old Town Registration Office in Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire.
When filming for Season 1 took place over the summer of 2018, Michele Elliot, owner of the House of Elliot in Hemel Old Town, said at the time: “It is really flattering that they would film up here.
“They used the outside of my store and the film crew were lovely,” she told Hemel Today. Michele even got a photo with the star and says he was really down to earth.
She said: “The filming didn’t affect my business and gave Old Town great publicity.”
Filming for Season 2 of the show reportedly began in September 2019.
Who else is in the cast?
Gervais has surrounded himself with considerable comic talent once again in Season 2.
Diane Morgan is cast against type as the office hippie, Ashley Jensen plays the nurse Tony fancies and Joe Wilkinson is the oddball postman.
Roisin Conaty plays the local sex Paul Kaye is an unconventional psychotherapist, and Penelope Wilton the bereaved widow with whom Tony shares a graveyard bench.
When can I watch it?
After Life Season 2 is available to stream in full on Netflix now.
If you need to catch up on the first series, Season 1 is also available in full on Netflix.


inews--2020-04-26--After Life season 2: Netflix release date, cast and everything else to know about the new Ricky Gerv

After Life season 2: Netflix release date, cast and everything else to know about the new Ricky Gervais series

After Life season 2 : Netflix release date , cast and everything else to know about the new Ricky Gervais series With only his pet dog to live for , Tony says and does whatever he wants The second series of the Netflix show once again follows journalist Tony ( played by Gervais ) , who is suicidal following the death of his wife , Lisa ( Kerry Godliman ) .
What is After Life about ?
With only his pet dog to live for , Tony says and does whatever he wants , as he no longer cares about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 , we see Tony decide to try and become a better friend and colleague .
He realises that everyone is grappling with their own problems - especially after learning the Tambury Gazette , where he works , faces possible closure - but he 's still really struggling with grief .
Despite its heavy subject matter , After Life is far from being nihilistic or pessimistic about the world .
It ’ s almost sunnily optimistic , with a touching faith in the redeeming goodness of others ; those hoping for a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office or Extras might be disappointed . '
I wanted it to be real' '' I thought , ‘ That ’ s perfect .
I can create a character that can say all the things that polite people are afraid to say ; he ’ s got nothing to lose ’ .
He can ’ t be threatened by human resources , ‘ cos he goes , ‘ I ’ ll kill myself ’ .
” Gervais knows full well that some people might be offended by his comedy , but said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ After Life ] a vigilante thing ; I wanted it to be real and I wanted it to be a comedy . ''
`` Even though it was dark , and I wanted people to feel sorry for him and I wanted it to be real , '' he said .
In reference to a memorable scene in series one when Tony walks past the local school and threatens a kid with a hammer , Gervais said , `` that ’ s what also makes you want to root for this man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even kids.
” “ Parents have told me , ‘ The thing with the hammer ?
I ’ ve wanted to do that ’ .
“ It ’ s like , if your kid ’ s being bullied , the rules go out the window . ''
Who else is in the cast ?
When can I watch it ?

The second season of Ricky Gervais‘ surprisingly heartfelt grief comedy After Life has arrived on Netflix.
The second series of the Netflix show once again follows journalist Tony (played by Gervais), who is suicidal following the death of his wife, Lisa (Kerry Godliman).
Here’s everything you need to know about it:
What is After Life about?
With only his pet dog to live for, Tony says and does whatever he wants, as he no longer cares about what happens to him.
In Season 2, we see Tony decide to try and become a better friend and colleague.
He realises that everyone is grappling with their own problems – especially after learning the Tambury Gazette, where he works, faces possible closure – but he’s still really struggling with grief.
Despite its heavy subject matter, After Life is far from being nihilistic or pessimistic about the world.
It’s almost sunnily optimistic, with a touching faith in the redeeming goodness of others; those hoping for a new cringe-comedy classic along the lines of The Office or Extras might be disappointed.
‘I wanted it to be real’
The idea for the show came from reactions to Gervais’ divisive stand-up.
“You can’t make a joke that someone, somewhere, won’t find offensive, so you shouldn’t try,” he told Yorkshire Evening Post.
“I thought, ‘That’s perfect. I can create a character that can say all the things that polite people are afraid to say; he’s got nothing to lose’. He can’t be threatened by human resources, ‘cos he goes, ‘I’ll kill myself’.”
Gervais knows full well that some people might be offended by his comedy, but said he “didn’t want to make [After Life] a vigilante thing; I wanted it to be real and I wanted it to be a comedy.”
“Even though it was dark, and I wanted people to feel sorry for him and I wanted it to be real,” he said.
“To start a sitcom with a woman in chemo leaving a message and you know she’s dead – that’s not Terry and June.”
In reference to a memorable scene in series one when Tony walks past the local school and threatens a kid with a hammer, Gervais said, “that’s what also makes you want to root for this man who’s nasty to everyone – even kids.”
“Parents have told me, ‘The thing with the hammer? I’ve wanted to do that’. “It’s like, if your kid’s being bullied, the rules go out the window.”
Who else is in the cast?
Gervais has surrounded himself with considerable comic talent once again in Season 2.
Diane Morgan is cast against type as the office hippie, Ashley Jensen plays the nurse Tony fancies and Joe Wilkinson is the oddball postman.
Roisin Conaty plays the local sex worker.while Paul Kaye is an unconventional psychotherapist, and Penelope Wilton the bereaved widow with whom Tony shares a graveyard bench.
When can I watch it?
After Life series 2 launched on Netflix on Friday 24 April.
If you need to catch up on the first series, Season 1 is available in full on Netflix now.


inews--2020-04-26--Where was Normal People filmed? Filming locations in Ireland, Italy and Sweden for the BBC Three ser

Where was Normal People filmed? Filming locations in Ireland, Italy and Sweden for the BBC Three series

Where was Normal People filmed ?
Filming locations in Ireland , Italy and Sweden for the BBC Three series The TV adaptation of Sally Rooney 's hit novel comes to the BBC at the end of April Irish writer , Sally Rooney ’ s , second book , Normal People , was a literary sensation and its legion of fans are eagerly awaiting the 12-part BBC and Hulu adaptation starting 25 April , directed by the Oscar-Nominated Lenny Abrahamson and Hettie MacDonald .
This page-turning portrayal of a romance between protagonists , Marianne ( played by Daisy Edgar-Jones ) and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charts their turbulent journey from classmates in a rural primary school in the West of Ireland to their days as students at Dublin ’ s Trinity College .
Marianne and Connell ’ s story plays out in small town , rural Ireland as well as the bars , restaurants , cafes and streets of Dublin as they drift in and out of each other ’ s orbits .
Much of the action takes place within the leafy surrounds of the historic Trinity College campus , right in the heart of the capital and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as actor , Mescal , who attended its drama faculty , the Lir Academy .
As a well-heeled Trinity student , Marianne ’ s digs were shot in a house on Wellington Road , a broad , leafy street with terraces of handsome , redbrick houses built in the 19th century in Dublin ’ s affluent Ballsbridge neighbourhood .
The city centre ’ s Hugh Lane Gallery , which is home to artist Francis Bacon ’ s South Kensington studio , also stood in for Venice ’ s Guggenheim Museum , when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moves to Italy .
Trinity College , Dublin , features in both the book and the TV adaptation The candle-lit Blackbird in the Rathmines neighbourhood sets the scene for a student night out drinking and shooting pool , while Anseo , which means “ here ” in Gaelic , a pub with DJs on Camden Street , makes a fleeting appearance as the backdrop to New Year ’ s Eve celebrations .
Cast and crew also decamped to County Sligo and the town of Tubbercurry , which was chosen as Carricklea , Marianne @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the West of Ireland .
Standing at the foot of the Ox Mountains , its main thoroughfare , Teeling Street , is lined with shops and pubs , including the old school-style Brennan ’ s Bar - which was the backdrop for several scenes throughout the series - as was Killoran ’ s Bar nearby .
On several occasions , Marianne and Connell steal away to the beach near Carricklea both at the beginning of their secret relationship and later when they return to their home town .
For the TV adaptation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Streedagh Beach in north west Sligo , a glorious 3km of sand and dunes that forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way .
Beyond the Emerald Isle , scenes of Marianne ’ s stay in Sweden , where she relocates to study as part of the university ’ s Erasmus programme , were shot in the chilly climes of Lulea in Lapland .
The closing scenes of episode nine depict sweeping panoramas of the Frozen Sea , a stunning , seasonal phenomenon that takes place between November and April , when the Baltic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to walk and skate to nearby islands .
One of Dublin ’ s hot tables , Forest Avenue doubled up as a café for scenes of Marianne ’ s Swedish sojourn .
When it ’ s not moonlighting as a film set , it serves six-course tasting menus of carefully sourced Irish ingredients .
Standing in for another Swedish setting , the Fumbally Café & Stables - an airy , all-day café serving Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean inspired fare - was given an unusually snowy setting thanks to special effects .
When Marianne , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on an idyllic , Italian holiday to Trieste , later joined by Connell , on screen they stay at Il Casale on Tenuta Verzano , close to the village of Sant ’ Oreste , about 35km north of Rome .
The villa , usually available to rent on Airbnb , is no stranger to film crews - it was also used in the cinematic adaptation of Elizabeth Gilbert ’ s Eat , Pray , Love starring Julia Roberts .
Northern Ireland ’ s varied landscape is dotted with moe than 26 locations from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most well-known is the tunnel-like sweep of beech trees of Kingsroad in Ballymoney , Co. Antrim known as The Dark Hedges .
There are also the 400m year-old Cushendun caves , which were the setting for the series ’ Stormlands ; Castle Ward in Co. Down , which was Winterfell ; and the Glens of Antrim , which stood in as Riverland .
discovernorthernireland.com/gameofthrones While the yet to be released Season Three is still in the works , fans of Channel 4 ’ s hit comedy series Derry Girls can follow in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michelle , Clare and Orla around the streets of the walled city of Derry-Londonderry .
Buy a cream horn , visit Dennis ’ s Wee Shop and see the Derry Girls mural painted by local artists UV Arts on the side of Badger ’ s Bar on Orchard Street .
Disney ’ s soon to be released film adaptation of Irish author , Eoin Colfer ’ s , sci-fi blockbuster Artemis Fowl was directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh and stars Colin Farrell and Judy Dench .
Scenes were filmed in a number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including White Rocks Beach in Portrush and around Magheracross viewing point and the medieval ruins of Dunluce Castle , Co Antrim .
Several places in Ireland have been used to stand for a “ galaxy far away ” , notably the stone beehive huts of Skellig Michael , the largest of the remote , Unesco World Heritage-listed early Christian monastic settlement off the coast of County Kerry .
It appeared in Star Wars : Episode VII – The Force Awakens , and the saga returned to Ireland to film much of Star @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jedi around Kerry on the Slea Head Peninsula , Donegal ’ s Inishowen Peninsula and West Cork .

Irish writer, Sally Rooney’s, second book, Normal People, was a literary sensation and its legion of fans eagerly awaited the 12-part BBC and Hulu adaptation, directed by the Oscar-Nominated Lenny Abrahamson and Hettie MacDonald. This page-turning portrayal of a romance between protagonists, Marianne (played by Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Connell (played by Paul Mescal) charts their turbulent journey from classmates in a rural primary school in the West of Ireland to their days as students at Dublin’s Trinity College.
Marianne and Connell’s story plays out in small town, rural Ireland as well as the bars, restaurants, cafes and streets of Dublin as they drift in and out of each other’s orbits. Much of the action takes place within the leafy surrounds of the historic Trinity College campus, right in the heart of the capital and alma mater of Rooney and Abrahamson as well as actor, Mescal, who attended its drama faculty, the Lir Academy.
Covid-19 Travel Advice Stay at home: the Government advises against all non-essential travel
As a well-heeled Trinity student, Marianne’s digs were shot in a house on Wellington Road, a broad, leafy street with terraces of handsome, redbrick houses built in the 19th century in Dublin’s affluent Ballsbridge neighbourhood. The city centre’s Hugh Lane Gallery, which is home to artist Francis Bacon’s South Kensington studio, also stood in for Venice’s Guggenheim Museum, when some of the action from the book moves to Italy.
The candle-lit Blackbird in the Rathmines neighbourhood sets the scene for a student night out drinking and shooting pool, while Anseo, which means “here” in Gaelic, a pub with DJs on Camden Street, makes a fleeting appearance as the backdrop to New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Cast and crew also decamped to County Sligo and the town of Tubbercurry, which was chosen as Carricklea, Marianne and Connell’s fictional home town in the West of Ireland. Standing at the foot of the Ox Mountains, its main thoroughfare, Teeling Street, is lined with shops and pubs, including the old school-style Brennan’s Bar – which was the backdrop for several scenes throughout the series – as was Killoran’s Bar nearby.
On several occasions, Marianne and Connell steal away to the beach near Carricklea both at the beginning of their secret relationship and later when they return to their home town. For the TV adaptation, this is the broad expanse of Streedagh Beach in north west Sligo, a glorious 3km of sand and dunes that forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way.
North to Sweden
Beyond the Emerald Isle, scenes of Marianne’s stay in Sweden, where she relocates to study as part of the university’s Erasmus programme, were shot in the chilly climes of Lulea in Lapland. The closing scenes of episode nine depict sweeping panoramas of the Frozen Sea, a stunning, seasonal phenomenon that takes place between November and April, when the Baltic Sea freezes over, making it possible to walk and skate to nearby islands.
One of Dublin’s hot tables, Forest Avenue doubled up as a café for scenes of Marianne’s Swedish sojourn. When it’s not moonlighting as a film set, it serves six-course tasting menus of carefully sourced Irish ingredients. Standing in for another Swedish setting, the Fumbally Café & Stables – an airy, all-day café serving Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean inspired fare – was given an unusually snowy setting thanks to special effects.
When Marianne, her boyfriend Jamie and college chums go on an idyllic, Italian holiday to Trieste, later joined by Connell, on screen they stay at Il Casale on Tenuta Verzano, close to the village of Sant’Oreste, about 35km north of Rome. The villa, usually available to rent on Airbnb, is no stranger to film crews – it was also used in the cinematic adaptation of Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts.
Normal People launches on BBC iPlayer and BBC3 on 25 April and will be broadcast on BBC1 at 9pm on 26 April.
Five more Irish screen locations
Game of Thrones
Northern Ireland’s varied landscape is dotted with moe than 26 locations from this cult HBO series. Perhaps the most well-known is the tunnel-like sweep of beech trees of Kingsroad in Ballymoney, Co. Antrim known as The Dark Hedges. There are also the 400m year-old Cushendun caves, which were the setting for the series’ Stormlands; Castle Ward in Co. Down, which was Winterfell; and the Glens of Antrim, which stood in as Riverland. discovernorthernireland.com/gameofthrones
Derry Girls
While the yet to be released Season Three is still in the works, fans of Channel 4’s hit comedy series Derry Girls can follow in the footsteps of its main characters Erin, Michelle, Clare and Orla around the streets of the walled city of Derry-Londonderry. Buy a cream horn, visit Dennis’s Wee Shop and see the Derry Girls mural painted by local artists UV Arts on the side of Badger’s Bar on Orchard Street.
Artemis Fowl
Disney’s soon to be released film adaptation of Irish author, Eoin Colfer’s, sci-fi blockbuster Artemis Fowl was directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh and stars Colin Farrell and Judy Dench. Scenes were filmed in a number of locations along Northern Ireland’s coastline, including White Rocks Beach in Portrush and around Magheracross viewing point and the medieval ruins of Dunluce Castle, Co Antrim.
Star Wars
Several places in Ireland have been used to stand for a “galaxy far away”, notably the stone beehive huts of Skellig Michael, the largest of the remote, Unesco World Heritage-listed early Christian monastic settlement off the coast of County Kerry. It appeared in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens , and the saga returned to Ireland to film much of Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi around Kerry on the Slea Head Peninsula, Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula and West Cork.
Brooklyn
The County Wexford town of Enniscorthy got a 1950s makeover during filming of the Oscar-nominated 2015 adaptation of Colm Tobin’s best-selling novel, starring Saoirse Ronan. Scenes were also shot on the golden sands of Curracloe Beach, which had already graced the silver screen doubling up as Normandy’s Omaha Beach for the D-Day Landings depicted in Steven Spielberg’s 1998, Saving Private Ryan.


inews--2020-04-26--Benefits increase April 2020: how much Universal Credit, Child Benefit, tax credits and others have

Benefits increase April 2020: how much Universal Credit, Child Benefit, tax credits and others have risen by

Benefits increase April 2020 : how much Universal Credit , Child Benefit , tax credits and others have risen by The Government 's benefits freeze is coming to an end after five years Some benefits claimants will see their payments increase from this April as the five-year-long benefits freeze comes to an end .
It will be the first cash increase claimants of working age benefits have seen since 2015 .
For example , the standard allowance for Universal Credit will increase by 1.7 per cent , raising the monthly total by over £5 for some claimants , or nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduced another increase in response to the coronavirus outbreak , which has forced more people to apply for Universal Credit .
From April , for 12 months , the Universal Credit standard allowance will increase by £20 a week .
The rate of Universal Credit will increase by 1.7 per cent ( Photo : Getty ) Why are some benefits increasing ?
The rates of working age benefits , including Universal Credit and Jobseeker 's Allowance , will increase in spring because the benefits freeze is coming to an end .
Their rates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the former Conservative chancellor George Osborne .
It means that , for the last four years , payments have not risen in line with inflation to reflect the rising cost of living .
But last year the Government announced the benefits freeze would end .
Payments will increase by 1.7 per cent , which was the rate of inflation for September 2019 .
Work and pensions minister Will Quince said : `` The Government are committed to supporting the most vulnerable in our society .
In this order , the Government propose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on increasing benefit and pension rates .
`` With this spending , we are upholding our commitment to the country ’ s pensioners by maintaining the triple lock and helping the poorest pensioners who count on pension credit ; spending an additional £1bn on working-age benefits and ensuring that we continue to support working people ; and providing essential support to disabled people and carers . ''
Some MPs and charities have said that after a four-year freeze , the 1.7 per cent rate of uplift is not enough .
How much will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some claimants will see their income rise increase by 1.7 per cent , in line with inflation .
From £498.89 to £507.37 a month , for couples with a joint claim and where one ( or both ) partner is aged 25 or over .
However , for the next 12 months , there will be a further increase on top of the annual uprating , which is equivalent to £1,040 a year , or £20 a week .
Working Tax Credit ( except the childcare element ) and Child Tax Credit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also increasing by at least 1.7 per cent .

Some benefits claimants will have seen their payments increase from this April as the five-year-long benefits freeze comes to an end.
It is the first cash increase claimants of working age benefits have seen since 2015.
For example, the standard allowance for Universal Credit is increasing by 1.7 per cent, raising the monthly total by over £5 for some claimants, or nearly £65 a year.
The Government has introduced another increase in response to the coronavirus outbreak, which has forced more people to apply for Universal Credit. From April, for 12 months, the Universal Credit standard allowance is increasing by £20 a week.
Why are some benefits increasing?
The rates of working age benefits, including Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance, are increasing because the benefits freeze is coming to an end.
Their rates were capped in 2016 following a decision by the former Conservative chancellor George Osborne. It means that, for the last four years, payments have not risen in line with inflation to reflect the rising cost of living.
The freeze affected Jobseekers’ Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance (personal allowances and work-related activity component, Income Support, Child and Working Tax Credit (non-disability-related elements), Housing benefits (various allowances/premiums and LHA rates), Universal Credit and Child Benefit.
Disability and carer benefits were not affected by the freeze.
But last year the Government announced the benefits freeze would end. Payments will increase by 1.7 per cent, which was the rate of inflation for September 2019.
The Government could spend an extra £5bn on the policy.
Work and pensions minister Will Quince said: “The Government are committed to supporting the most vulnerable in our society. In this order, the Government propose to spend an extra £5bn in 2020-21 on increasing benefit and pension rates.
“With this spending, we are upholding our commitment to the country’s pensioners by maintaining the triple lock and helping the poorest pensioners who count on pension credit; spending an additional £1bn on working-age benefits and ensuring that we continue to support working people; and providing essential support to disabled people and carers.”
Some MPs and charities have said that after a four-year freeze, the 1.7 per cent rate of uplift is not enough.
How much will benefits go up by?
From April, some claimants will see their income rise increase by 1.7 per cent, in line with inflation.
Universal Credit
From £317.82 to £323.22 a month, for claimants aged 25 or over in receipt of the standard allowance.
From £498.89 to £507.37 a month, for couples with a joint claim and where one (or both) partner is aged 25 or over.
Coronavirus increase
However, for the next 12 months, there will be a further increase on top of the annual uprating, which is equivalent to £1,040 a year, or £20 a week.
So the increase will be:
From £317.82 to £409.89 a month, for claimants aged 25 or over in receipt of the standard allowance.
The Working Tax Credit basic element will also increase by more than £1,000 for 12 months.
Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
From £73.10 to £74.35 a week, for a single person aged 25 or over, or a lone parent aged 18 or over.
Child benefit
Child Benefit will go from £20.70 to £21.05 a week.
Working Tax Credit (except the childcare element) and Child Tax Credit (except the family element) are also increasing by at least 1.7 per cent.
Disability and carer benefits
Disability and carer benefits are also set to increase by 1.7 per cent this year, however they were not subject to the benefits freeze.
The higher rate of Attendance Allowance is increasing from £87.65 a week to £89.15.
Carer’s Allowance will move from £66.15 a week to £67.25.
The weekly rate of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will also go up by 1.7 per cent. The enhanced PIP daily living rate and the highest rate for DLA will increase from £87.65 a week to £89.15.
For more details about the increases for different benefits and circumstances, click here.


inews--2020-04-26--Ramadan timetable 2020: UK prayer and fasting times, plus when you can eat Suhoor and Iftar

Ramadan timetable 2020 : UK prayer and fasting times , plus when you can eat Suhoor and Iftar Ramadan is starting as coronavirus lockdown restrictions continue across the world - here are all the times you need to help with fasting A gruelling process at the best of times , the period of abstinence also has the potential to create confusion , even without the chaos caused by the Covid-19 outbreak .
This is because the fasting times are based on sunrise and sunset , and so change from day to day as Ramadan progresses - here 's how it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ramadan this year .
During Ramadan , the Salat ( daily prayers ) take on increased significance , both because the holy month is considered a time of reflection and purification and also because they shape the hours of the fast .
Every day during Ramadan , Muslims eat the pre-fast meal called the Sahoor , which is take before sunrise and culminates with the day 's first prayer , the Fajr .
The fast is n't broken until sunset with the Iftar meal , which precedes the Maghrib , the fourth prayer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fast is broken at sunset by the Iftar meal ( Photo : Getty Images ) Both the Central London Mosque and the East London Mosque have compiled Ramadan timetables , which give worshippers in the capital all the information they need to observe the fast correctly .
Here are the key timings day-by-day for Fajr and Maghrib – when the fast begins and ends – in London for the Muslim holy month , dependent on exactly when Ramadan begins : It should be noted that these timings only hold for the capital – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sunset across the rest of the UK , there are variations depending on location .
Fortunately , the charity Muslim Hands has provided the following quick guide to adjust the fast timetable to apply to where you are : Indian Muslim men arrange rows of food for Iftar during Ramadan ( Photo : AFP/Getty Images ) Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam – the fundamental rules all Muslims follow – along with the Shahadah ( declaration of faith ) , Salat ( prayer ) , Zakat ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is when Muslims are required to spend 30 days observing fast during daylight hours , as a means of celebrating and reflecting on their faith .
Ramadan is based on the cycle of the moon , meaning that the dates are different from year to year , and can not be predicted precisely .
However , this year the holy month is expected to begin on the evening of Thursday 23 April , and end on Saturday 23 May .
During Ramadan there is an increased offering of the Salat , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on their lives .

The holy month of Ramadan is upon us, with Muslims preparing to observe the fast even with coronavirus lockdown restrictions in place around the world.
A gruelling process at the best of times, the period of abstinence also has the potential to create confusion, even without the chaos caused by the Covid-19 outbreak.
This is because the fasting times are based on sunrise and sunset, and so change from day to day as Ramadan progresses – here’s how it works, and a timetable for observing Ramadan this year.
Ramadan prayers, Suhoor and Iftar
During Ramadan, the Salat (daily prayers) take on increased significance, both because the holy month is considered a time of reflection and purification and also because they shape the hours of the fast.
The Salat
Fajr: observed before sunrise
observed before sunrise Zuhr: observed after noon
observed after noon Asr: observed in late afternoon
observed in late afternoon Maghrib: observed after sunset
observed after sunset Isha: observed at night
Every day during Ramadan, Muslims eat the pre-fast meal called the Sahoor, which is take before sunrise and culminates with the day’s first prayer, the Fajr.
The fast isn’t broken until sunset with the Iftar meal, which precedes the Maghrib, the fourth prayer of the day.
Ramadan coincides with the start of summer and the days gradually increasing in length, which means the fasting period becomes progressively more challenging as worshippers near the end of the holy month, and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
Ramadan daily UK timetable
Both the Central London Mosque and the East London Mosque have compiled Ramadan timetables, which give worshippers in the capital all the information they need to observe the fast correctly.
Here are the key timings day-by-day for Fajr and Maghrib – when the fast begins and ends – in London for the Muslim holy month, dependent on exactly when Ramadan begins:
Ramadan timetable (Time Fast Begins, Time Fast Ends)
Thur 23 April: 4.10am, 8.14pm
Fri 24 April: 4.07am, 8.16pm
Sat 25 April: 4.05am, 8.18pm
Sun 26 April: 4.03am, 8.19pm
Mon 27 April: 4.00am, 8.21pm
Tue 28 April: 3.58am, 8.23pm
Wed 29 April: 3.57am, 8.24pm
Thur 30 April: 3.54am, 8.26pm
Fri 1 May: 3.51am, 8.28pm
Sat 2 May: 3.49am, 8.29pm
Sun 3 May: 3.46am, 8.31pm
Mon 4 May: 3.44am, 8.32pm
Tue 5 May: 3.41am, 8.34pm
Wed 6 May: 3.40am, 8.36pm
Thu 7 May: 3.37am, 8.37pm
Fri 8 May: 3.35am, 8.39pm
Sat 9 May: 3.33am, 8.40pm
Sun 10 May: 3.31am, 8.42pm
Mon 11 May: 3.28am, 8.43pm
Tue 12 May: 3.27am, 8.45pm
Wed 13 May: 3.24am, 8.47pm
Thu 14 May: 3.23am, 8.48pm
Fri 15 May: 3.20am, 8.50pm
Sat 16 May: 3.19am, 8.51pm
Sun 17 May: 3.16am, 8.53pm
Mon 18 May: 3.15am, 8.54pm
Tue 19 May: 3.13am, 8.55pm
Wed 20 May: 3.11am, 8.57pm
Thu 21 May: 3.09am, 8.58pm
Fri 22 May: 3.08am, 9.00pm
Sat 23 May: 3.06am, 9.01pm
Sun 24 May: 3.03am, 9.02pm
It should be noted that these timings only hold for the capital – because of the varying times of sunrise and sunset across the rest of the UK, there are variations depending on location.
Fortunately, the charity Muslim Hands has provided the following quick guide to adjust the fast timetable to apply to where you are:
UK variations relative to London (Time Fast Begins, Time Fast Ends)
Birmingham: (8 minutes later, 6 minutes later)
(8 minutes later, 6 minutes later) Bradford: (9 minutes later, 8 minutes later)
(9 minutes later, 8 minutes later) Cardiff: (13 minutes later, 12 minutes later)
(13 minutes later, 12 minutes later) Glasgow: (22 minutes later, 40 minutes later)
(22 minutes later, 40 minutes later) Leeds: (7 minutes later, 4 minutes later)
(7 minutes later, 4 minutes later) Liverpool: (12 minutes later, 9 minutes later)
(12 minutes later, 9 minutes later) Manchester: (10 minutes later, 7 minutes later)
(10 minutes later, 7 minutes later) Middlesbrough: (8 minutes later, 14 minutes later)
What is Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam – the fundamental rules all Muslims follow – along with the Shahadah (declaration of faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity) and the Hajj pilgrimage.
It is when Muslims are required to spend 30 days observing fast during daylight hours, as a means of celebrating and reflecting on their faith.
Ramadan is based on the cycle of the moon, meaning that the dates are different from year to year, and cannot be predicted precisely.
However, this year the holy month is expected to begin on the evening of Thursday 23 April, and end on Saturday 23 May.
During Ramadan there is an increased offering of the Salat, with Muslims giving thanks to Allah and reflecting on their lives.
Beyond fasting, Muslims are also encouraged to read the Quran, with the holy text recited at the Tarawih, special nightly prayers held throughout the month.
Ramadan literally means “scorching heat” in Arabic, and marks the month when the Quran is said to have been revealed to Prophet Muhammad by God via the archangel Gabriel in 610 AD.


inews--2020-04-26--Universal Credit increase April 2020: how much the DWP benefit has risen, how to claim it and who's

Universal Credit increase April 2020: how much the DWP benefit has risen, how to claim it and who's eligible for it

Universal Credit increase April 2020 : how much the DWP benefit has risen , how to claim it and who 's eligible for it Universal Credit payments will rise for the first time in five years , benefitting around 2.5 million households People who receive Universal Credit will have seen a boost to their payments from 6 April , as the benefit is given a 1.7 per cent rise .
The increase will see around 2.5 million households better off following a five year freeze on the amount payable .
Universal Credit is a payment that is made to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or out of work , with living costs .
It is paid in monthly installments , or twice a month for some people in Scotland .
Anyone who previously received any of these benefits does not need to do anything to move across to Universal Credit , unless your circumstances have changed , or you are contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) .
You can not claim Universal Credit if you receive , or are entitled to , the severe disability premium .
How much will Universal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ payments rose by 1.7 per cent on 6 April 2020 , marking the first time they have increased since 2015 .
Single Universal Credit claimants aged under 25 will see payments go up from £251.77 per month to £342.74 .
Joint claimants who are both under 25 will get an increase from £395.20 per month to £488.59 , while those over 25 will see a rise from £498.89 per month to £594.04 .
Who is eligible for Universal Credit ?
To be eligible to claim Universal Credit , you need to meet one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and your partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you The number of children you have does not affect your eligibility for Universal Credit , but it may affect how much you get .
If you live with your partner , their income and savings will be taken into account - even if they are not eligible for Universal Credit .

People who receive Universal Credit will have seen a boost to their payments from 6 April, with the benefit given a 1.7 per cent rise.
The increase will see around 2.5 million households better off following a five year freeze on the amount payable.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a payment that is made to help those who are on a low income, or out of work, with living costs.
It is paid in monthly installments, or twice a month for some people in Scotland.
The payment replaces Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Working Tax Credit.
Anyone who previously received any of these benefits does not need to do anything to move across to Universal Credit, unless your circumstances have changed, or you are contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
You cannot claim Universal Credit if you receive, or are entitled to, the severe disability premium.
How much will Universal Credit increase?
All working age benefits payments rose by 1.7 per cent on 6 April 2020, marking the first time they have increased since 2015.
For 12 months, the government is increasing Universal Credit payments by £1,000, amounting to around £80 extra per month.
This increase will apply to all new and existing claimants.
Single Universal Credit claimants aged under 25 will see payments go up from £251.77 per month to £342.74.
Single claimants aged over 25 will see a rise from £317.82 per month to £409.89.
Joint claimants who are both under 25 will get an increase from £395.20 per month to £488.59, while those over 25 will see a rise from £498.89 per month to £594.04.
Who is eligible for Universal Credit?
To be eligible to claim Universal Credit, you need to meet one of the following criteria:
– you’re on a low income or unemployed
– you’re 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you’re 16 to 17)
– you’re under State Pension age (or your partner is)
– you and your partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you
– you live in the UK
The number of children you have does not affect your eligibility for Universal Credit, but it may affect how much you get.
If you live with your partner, their income and savings will be taken into account – even if they are not eligible for Universal Credit.
To check your eligibility for Universal Credit, visit gov.uk.
How to claim
To apply for Universal Credit, you will need to complete an application form online.
To do this, you will require:
– your bank, building society or credit union account details (call the Universal Credit helpline if you
– do not have one on 0800 328 5644)
– an email address
– information about your housing, such as how much rent you pay
– details of your income, such as payslips
– details of savings and any investments, like shares or a property that you rent out
– details of how much you pay for childcare if you’re applying for help with childcare costs
You will also have to verify your identity online, either via a driving licence, passport, or a debit or credit card.
If you and your partner live together, you will have to apply as a couple, even if you are not married.


inews--2020-04-26--Primates: when the BBC One documentary narrated by Chris Packham starts, and the animals featuring

Primates : when the BBC One documentary narrated by Chris Packham starts , and the animals featuring The three-episode adventure takes viewers around the world for an intimate look at how monkeys , apes and lemurs have adapted to survive Described by the broadcaster as the “ definitive celebration of the animals you thought you knew ” , the three-episode adventure takes viewers around the world for an intimate look at how monkeys , apes and lemurs have adapted to survive in the most unexpected places , how they socialise and develop cultures they pass on to future generations .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ series is incredible animal behaviour , ” reads the synopsis .
“ New technology has captured primates on their level and in their world , whether that ’ s in the treetops of a flooded forest , or the tangled undergrowth of the Sri Lankan night.
” The second , Family Matters , will air at the same time the following Sunday , and the third , Saving Primates , the Sunday after that .
The executive producer of the series is Michael Gunton , known for his work on Big Cats , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took the Primates team two years to capture the footage over 28 filming expeditions across the world .
New technology allowed them to capture primates on their level , using tiny remote cameras , canopy cams and a huge , state of the heart 360 degree rig .
What can we expect from the first episode ?
Secrets of Survival explores the strategies and coping mechanisms monkeys , apes and lemurs in different areas of the world use in order to ensure their survival .
The team follows a troop of bearded capuchins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struggle to find food during a drought and turn to tools in order to get what they need .
Meanwhile , on a remote island off of the west African coastline , we mean the little known drill species , who must fight for a place in their hierarchy or risk exile .
Lion-tailed macaques fight squirrels for jackfruit in the Western Ghats of India , while on the edge of the Congo basin , volcanic slopes are the homes of the silverback mountain gorillas .
One leader shows his softer side as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Which key species are set to be featured ?

New BBC documentary series Primates aims to uncover the lives of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
Described by the broadcaster as the “definitive celebration of the animals you thought you knew”, the three-episode adventure takes viewers around the world for an intimate look at how monkeys, apes and lemurs have adapted to survive in the most unexpected places, how they socialise and develop cultures they pass on to future generations.
“At the heart of this ground-breaking series is incredible animal behaviour,” reads the synopsis. “New technology has captured primates on their level and in their world, whether that’s in the treetops of a flooded forest, or the tangled undergrowth of the Sri Lankan night.”
Here’s everything you need to know about it.
When does Primates start?
The next episode has been postponed because of the Prime Ministers update tonight but Protecting Primates will air next week on Sunday 17 May at 8.15pm.
Who made the series?
The executive producer of the series is Michael Gunton, known for his work on Big Cats, Dynasties and Planet Earth II.
Environmentalist and trained zoologist Chris Packham is the narrator.
It took the Primates team two years to capture the footage over 28 filming expeditions across the world.
New technology allowed them to capture primates on their level, using tiny remote cameras, canopy cams and a huge, state of the heart 360 degree rig.
What can we expect from the first episode?
Secrets of Survival explores the strategies and coping mechanisms monkeys, apes and lemurs in different areas of the world use in order to ensure their survival.
The team follows a troop of bearded capuchins in Brazil’s badlands as they struggle to find food during a drought and turn to tools in order to get what they need.
Meanwhile, on a remote island off of the west African coastline, we mean the little known drill species, who must fight for a place in their hierarchy or risk exile.
Lion-tailed macaques fight squirrels for jackfruit in the Western Ghats of India, while on the edge of the Congo basin, volcanic slopes are the homes of the silverback mountain gorillas. One leader shows his softer side as a caring father raising his young.
Problem-solving baboons and rhesus macaques also make an appearance.
Which key species are set to be featured?
Producers listed the following primates who appear in the documentary series in alphabetical order:
Barbary macaque – Morocco
Bearded capuchin – Brazil
Blue-eyed black lemur – Madagascar
Bornean orangutan – Borneo
Chimpanzee – Uganda
Common marmoset – Brazil
Drill – Bioko, Equatorial Guinea
Dusky langur – Malaysia
Gray slender loris – Sri Lanka
Golden-headed lion tamarin – Brazil
Hanuman langur – India
Kipunji – Tanzania
Lac Alaotra gentle lemur – Madagascar
Lar gibbon – Thailand
Lesser bush baby – South Africa
Lion-tailed macaque – India
Long-tailed macaque – Thailand
Mountain gorilla – Democratic Republic of Congo
Owl monkey – Argentina
Rhesus macaque – Nepal
Tapanuli orangutan – Sumatra
White-cheeked spider monkey – Brazil
White uakari – Brazil
Yellow baboon – Zambia


inews--2020-04-26--Can I work if I'm furloughed and who can claim 80% of wages? The rules of the UK job retention schem

Can I work if I'm furloughed and who can claim 80% of wages? The rules of the UK job retention scheme explained

Can I work if I 'm furloughed and who can claim 80 % of wages ?
The rules of the UK job retention scheme explained The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme offers employers grants from HMRC to cover 80 per cent of wages The Government has since announced the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme , which offers employers grants from HMRC to cover 80 per cent of the wages of staff who are on a payroll but are unable to work because of the outbreak .
This amount will cover £2,500 a month .
In order to do this , an employer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
This means that they have been asked to stop working because of the coronavirus , but have not been made redundant .
A worker can only be classified as such if their employer can not afford to cover staff costs because of the outbreak .
Can I work while I am furloughed ?
How will I know if I have been furloughed ?
There is currently no specific test for employers to undertake to prove the business is facing financial hardship because of the coronavirus , but it is advisable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the outbreak is having on the business when making the claim to HMRC .
Whether you are on a part-time contract or zero hours , providing you are on a pay roll , you can be furloughed ( Photo : Unsplash ) How many staff can be furloughed at once and for how long ?
Can I be furloughed if I only work part-time ?
Can I work for another employer if I am furloughed ?

The Covid-19 pandemic has hit the UK economy hard, and many businesses are struggling to stay afloat and adapt to Government-imposed measures with an uncertain timescale in place.
This means employers face tough decisions when it comes to supporting their staff and avoiding making redundancies.
The Government has since announced the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which offers employers grants from HMRC to cover 80 per cent of the wages of staff who are on a payroll but are unable to work because of the outbreak. This amount will cover £2,500 a month.
In order to do this, an employer must classify a worker as “furloughed”. This means that they have been asked to stop working because of the coronavirus, but have not been made redundant. A worker can only be classified as such if their employer cannot afford to cover staff costs because of the outbreak.
Here are some of the rules and regulations of being a furloughed worker explained.
Can I work while I am furloughed?
To qualify for this scheme, you should not undertake work for your employer while you are furloughed.
Workers will remain employed while furloughed, and your employer could choose to fund the differences between this payment and your salary.
If your salary is reduced as a result of these changes, you may be eligible for support through the welfare system, including Universal Credit.
The scheme was initially opened for three months, backdated from March 1 to the end of May. It has since been extended by a month to the end of June.
How will I know if I have been furloughed?
Your employer must inform you about any changes to your employment status before they do it.
In order to furlough you, your employer must take the following steps:
Designate affected employees as “furloughed workers”, and notify your employees of this change – changing the status of employees remains subject to existing employment law and, depending on the employment contract, may be subject to negotiation
Submit information to HMRC about the employees that have been furloughed and their earnings through a new online portal (HMRC will set out further details on the information required)
If your business needs short term cash flow support, you may be eligible for a Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan.
There is currently no specific test for employers to undertake to prove the business is facing financial hardship because of the coronavirus, but it is advisable to have a way of proving the impact the outbreak is having on the business when making the claim to HMRC.
How many staff can be furloughed at once and for how long?
Employees can be furloughed for the entire duration of the Job Retention Scheme, starting from 1 March 2020 until the end of June but may be extended beyond that.
There is currently no limit on the number of staff that can be furloughed at any one time.
Can I be furloughed if I only work part-time?
Whether you are on a full-time, part-time, flexible, agency or zero-hours contract, all workers are eligible for the furlough scheme providing they were on the company’s PAYE payroll from 28 February 2020.
If you were made redundant by your employer since 28 February 2020, you can also be covered by the scheme, providing you are first rehired.
Can I work for another employer if I am furloughed?
Staff may be able to work for another employer so long as it does not breach the contractual obligations set out. They should only work outside of the hours they would normally work with the job they have been furloughed from.
Taking an extra weekend job at a supermarket, or running deliveries in the evening, may not breach obligations if your contract stipulates a 9am-5pm working day, for example.


inews--2020-04-26--Travis Scott Fortnite event: times for repeat live concerts, how to get the new skin and the Astrono

Travis Scott Fortnite event: times for repeat live concerts, how to get the new skin and the Astronomical challenges explained

Travis Scott Fortnite event : times for repeat live concerts , how to get the new skin and the Astronomical challenges explained Astronomical is ' a one of a kind musical journey featuring Travis Scott' The latest crossover event to come to Fortnite has been revealed , and includes another huge live concert to be performed within the popular battle royale game .
Astronomical is `` a one of a kind musical journey featuring Travis Scott '' , according to developers Epic Games , and will see the world premiere of a brand new track from the American rapper .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about it : When does Astronomical take place ?
With a large percentage of Fortnite 's player-base experiencing lockdown measures in their home countries , the game 's servers are under more pressure than ever as players log on in droves to quell their boredom .
Coupled with the fact that Fortnite 's in-game events often see a swell in the numbers of players online as fans log on to see what all the fuss is about , and things could get heavy for the tech running behind the game .
Epic Games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holding just one special performance , they are staggering the show around the world , with multiple 'tour dates ' announced .
`` To make sure everyone has a chance to experience Astronomical , '' say Epic , `` we ’ re setting up multiple tour dates with showtimes for players around the globe .
`` Jump in to whichever time fits your schedule best , or catch an encore with your friends if they missed it . ''
'Doors ' to each performance will open 30 minutes before the show , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to secure your spot . ''
Players that attend any of the Astronomical live events will also be awarded with an Astroworld Cyclone Glider and two loading screens .
What else is happening ?
Just some of the swag available through Astronomical ( Image : Epic Games ) Players will be able to get their hands on his Outfits , Emotes , and more starting from today ( 21 April ) .
From the same day , you will be able to unlock even more free gear by completing the Astronomical Challenges .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Astronomical Challenges have not gone live at the time of writing , dataminers who have poured through the game 's code - and are usually reliable in their findings - claim to uncovered the tasks ahead of time .
There are a total of three challenges on offer which won ’ t take players too long to complete .
It 's not yet confirmed when the challenges will go live in-game , but here they are :

The latest crossover event to come to Fortnite has been revealed, and includes another huge live concert to be performed within the popular battle royale game.
Astronomical is “a one of a kind musical journey featuring Travis Scott”, according to developers Epic Games, and will see the world premiere of a brand new track from the American rapper.
Here is everything you need to know about it:
When does Astronomical take place?
Fortnite’s latest crossover event will take place between 23 – 25 April.
With a large percentage of Fortnite’s player-base experiencing lockdown measures in their home countries, the game’s servers are under more pressure than ever as players log on in droves to quell their boredom.
Coupled with the fact that Fortnite’s in-game events often see a swell in the numbers of players online as fans log on to see what all the fuss is about, and things could get heavy for the tech running behind the game.
Epic Games realise this, and so instead of holding just one special performance, they are staggering the show around the world, with multiple ‘tour dates’ announced.
“To make sure everyone has a chance to experience Astronomical,” say Epic, “we’re setting up multiple tour dates with showtimes for players around the globe.
“Jump in to whichever time fits your schedule best, or catch an encore with your friends if they missed it.”
The Astronomical ‘tour dates’ are as follows (all times are UK times):
Friday 24 April – 1am
Friday 24 April – 4pm
Saturday 25 April – 6am
Saturday 25 April – 5pm
Sunday 26 April – 12am
‘Doors’ to each performance will open 30 minutes before the show, with Epic recommending you “get in early to secure your spot.”
Players that attend any of the Astronomical live events will also be awarded with an Astroworld Cyclone Glider and two loading screens.
What else is happening?
Ahead of the Astronomical events, Epic have announced Travis Scott is the newest addition to the Icon Series.
Players will be able to get their hands on his Outfits, Emotes, and more starting from today (21 April).
From the same day, you will be able to unlock even more free gear by completing the Astronomical Challenges.
What are the Astronomical Challenges?
While the Astronomical Challenges have not gone live at the time of writing, dataminers who have poured through the game’s code – and are usually reliable in their findings – claim to uncovered the tasks ahead of time.
There are a total of three challenges on offer which won’t take players too long to complete. It’s not yet confirmed when the challenges will go live in-game, but here they are:
The full list of Astronomical Challenges is as follows (per FortniteInsider):
Dance for 10 seconds on the dance floor at The Yacht or Apres Ski
Bounce off different giant Astro heads
Visit the stage north of Sweaty Sands
Epic Games have announced players will be rewarded with an emote, banner, spray, and a loading screen for completing the Travis Scott Fortnite challenges.


inews--2020-04-26--Coronavirus in the UK: Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby to give first virtual school 'assembly'

Coronavirus in the UK: Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby to give first virtual school 'assembly' for Oak National Academy

Coronavirus in the UK : Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby to give first virtual school 'assembly ' for Oak National Academy Justin Welby will deliver the address for the Oak National Academy in what is being billed as the biggest school assembly held in the UK The Archbishop of Canterbury will give the first `` assembly '' this week for the Government 's new virtual school for families in lockdown .
Justin Welby will deliver the address for the Oak National Academy on Thursday at 10am in what is being billed as the biggest school assembly ever held in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set up by a group of teachers and education organisations at the start of the summer term to deliver a `` sequenced '' plan of specially made online lessons .
Since its launch last week it has seen over two million lessons accessed .
In his pre-recorded message , the Archbishop will say : “ It ’ s wonderful that this Academy is growing and exists in these dark times , it ’ s a place of light and of commitment to the future .
“ I suspect this year 2020 will stick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are lots of things that you will be going through .
“ For Christians , it ’ s all summed up in a word ‘ hope ’ … hope means the certain expectation of something you don ’ t have yet but you will have in the future because it ’ s been promised by God .
Mr Welby will also draw on the words of Nelson Mandela , as well as his own experience of a visit to Sudan where he met and prayed with a young refugee .
The assembly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the education company Tes - will also feature Education Secretary Gavin Williamson .
Oak has promised to continue providing assemblies featuring a range of well-known faces , which will focus on topics like hope and resilience , as well as practical advice and support .
In addition to the assemblies , Oak is partnering with the Church of England to provide separate weekly collective worship sessions led by schools .
It said the sessions would be accessible to those of all faiths and none .
The BBC - which is also providing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it was on course for over 10 million unique education visits in its first week after notching up 8.7 million in the first four days .

The Archbishop of Canterbury will give the first “assembly” this week for the Government’s new virtual school for families in lockdown.
Justin Welby will deliver the address for the Oak National Academy on Thursday at 10am in what is being billed as the biggest school assembly ever held in the UK.
The Oak National Academy was set up by a group of teachers and education organisations at the start of the summer term to deliver a “sequenced” plan of specially made online lessons.
Since its launch last week it has seen over two million lessons accessed.
Message of hope
In his pre-recorded message, the Archbishop will say: “It’s wonderful that this Academy is growing and exists in these dark times, it’s a place of light and of commitment to the future.
“I suspect this year 2020 will stick in the mind for many reasons and there are lots of things that you will be going through.
“What do we do with that?
“For Christians, it’s all summed up in a word ‘hope’… hope means the certain expectation of something you don’t have yet but you will have in the future because it’s been promised by God.
“Hope is hope of life, hope of purpose, hope of peace, hope of justice, equality and a good future.”
Mr Welby will also draw on the words of Nelson Mandela, as well as his own experience of a visit to Sudan where he met and prayed with a young refugee.
Virtual assemblies
The assembly – which is being held in partnership with the education company Tes – will also feature Education Secretary Gavin Williamson.
Oak has promised to continue providing assemblies featuring a range of well-known faces, which will focus on topics like hope and resilience, as well as practical advice and support.
In addition to the assemblies, Oak is partnering with the Church of England to provide separate weekly collective worship sessions led by schools. It said the sessions would be accessible to those of all faiths and none.
The BBC – which is also providing lessons through its Bitesize service – meanwhile said it was on course for over 10 million unique education visits in its first week after notching up 8.7 million in the first four days.


inews--2020-04-26--Inside Bellingcat, the real-life investigative website that inspired dark Killing Eve storyline

2020 will be a pivotal year for Bellingcat Those of you watching the new series of Killing Eve will have seen the dark fate of Kenny Stowton , a key character in the BBC ’ s hit spy drama until he took a job at Bitter Pill , an online investigative magazine .
Kenny ( played by Sean Delaney ) was found dead on the ground beneath Bitter Pill ’ s high-rise office .
The real-life inspiration for Bitter Pill is Bellingcat , a remarkable organisation that is transforming investigative journalism by searching the internet ’ s vast trove of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leicester on a shoestring budget , it has relocated to The Hague , the “ city of justice ” , where it has dealings with the International Criminal Court , Europol and other institutions that wish to make use of the wealth of criminal evidence that sits online .
It was Bellingcat that unearthed the identities of the Russian agents accused of the Salisbury poisoning of former KGB man Sergei Skripal and his daughter , Yulia , shortly after those suspects appeared on Russian television claiming to be innocent tourists .
The same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and pictures which enabled it to geolocate and identify a Russian rocket-launcher that brought down the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 in Ukraine in 2014 with the loss of 298 lives .
Four leaders of pro-Russian militias are currently being tried for murder in a Dutch court .
The founder of Bellingcat , Eliot Higgins , is proud of the site ’ s role in the case , saying : “ You had the joint investigation team pretty much agreeing with everything we have said on MH17.
” Most of the crash victims were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the case has made the Netherlands “ a natural home ” for the organisation , which began in Mr Higgins ’ s home and has expanded to around 20 staff .
It has a supervisory board and Dutch charity status .
It has appointed a business director to ensure financial stability .
Transparency is vital for raising funding and for deflecting the slurs that it is a front for spooks .
“ We get all sorts of accusations about the millions and millions that we are getting from the CIA and all that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Russian embassy has , without evidence , described Bellingcat as a tool of the UK ’ s “ deep establishment ” .
The site ’ s activities include archiving online videos of attacks in Syria , and documenting Saudi air strikes in Yemen as part of a project with Global Legal Action Network .
The intention is for the material to be so transparently presented that it can be accepted by courts of law .
Bellingcat has submitted material to the UK Government ’ s inquiry into arms exports to Saudi Arabia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for an organisation which makes 30 per cent of its income from hosting workshops on open-source investigations and has put 2,000 students through its courses .
Funding also comes from family foundations , such as Porticus and Adessium .
Obtaining such grants is not easy with the markets in flux .
“ It ’ s a bit nerve-racking at the moment , ” admits Mr Higgins , a former blogger and video game obsessive .
But 2020 should be pivotal for Bellingcat , which has just been shortlisted for the European Press Prize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Europol in geolocating incidents of child abuse by analysing the landscapes in photos .
The website is about to undergo a major upgrade that will make its toolkit of search apps more available and mobilise volunteers to assist in online sleuthing .
Following its award-winning podcast knitting together the story of its MH17 investigation , Bellingcat is crowd-funding two more series , one on extrajudicial killings in Africa and another on Russian espionage .
“ With this Russian spy stuff it ’ s solid gold .
We have a lot of it and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” says Mr Higgins .
Bellingcat ’ s relaunch has been delayed until June by the pandemic .
It has thrown itself into exposing disinformation on coronavirus and begun investigating the rise of the far-right in Europe.Aside from the BBC drama , this trailblazing website was the subject of an Emmy award-winning film , Bellingcat : Truth in a Post-Truth World , made by Dutch director Hans Pool .
Mr Higgins wants Bellingcat to have its own film unit and hopes to turn the story of its MH17 investigation into a documentary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t come without risks .
Police have visited Mr Higgins at home to discuss his safety .
The team ’ s emails have been subjected to sophisticated cyber attacks .
The Killing Eve storyline about Kenny Stowton is not so fanciful , but Higgins is undaunted by the sniping and the threats .
“ It ’ s nice to know they still care , ” he says .

Those of you watching the new series of Killing Eve will have seen the dark fate of Kenny Stowton, a key character in the BBC’s hit spy drama until he took a job at Bitter Pill, an online investigative magazine. Kenny (played by Sean Delaney) was found dead on the ground beneath Bitter Pill’s high-rise office.
The real-life inspiration for Bitter Pill is Bellingcat, a remarkable organisation that is transforming investigative journalism by searching the internet’s vast trove of open-source video and data. Created in Leicester on a shoestring budget, it has relocated to The Hague, the “city of justice”, where it has dealings with the International Criminal Court, Europol and other institutions that wish to make use of the wealth of criminal evidence that sits online.
Unearthing crucial information
It was Bellingcat that unearthed the identities of the Russian agents accused of the Salisbury poisoning of former KGB man Sergei Skripal and his daughter, Yulia, shortly after those suspects appeared on Russian television claiming to be innocent tourists.
The same website scoured the internet for the videos and pictures which enabled it to geolocate and identify a Russian rocket-launcher that brought down the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 in Ukraine in 2014 with the loss of 298 lives. Four leaders of pro-Russian militias are currently being tried for murder in a Dutch court.
The founder of Bellingcat, Eliot Higgins, is proud of the site’s role in the case, saying: “You had the joint investigation team pretty much agreeing with everything we have said on MH17.”
Most of the crash victims were Dutch and Bellingcat’s work on the case has made the Netherlands “a natural home” for the organisation, which began in Mr Higgins’s home and has expanded to around 20 staff. It has a supervisory board and Dutch charity status. It has appointed a business director to ensure financial stability. Transparency is vital for raising funding and for deflecting the slurs that it is a front for spooks.
Accusations of espionage backing
“We get all sorts of accusations about the millions and millions that we are getting from the CIA and all that stuff,” says Mr Higgins. The Russian embassy has, without evidence, described Bellingcat as a tool of the UK’s “deep establishment”. The site’s activities include archiving online videos of attacks in Syria, and documenting Saudi air strikes in Yemen as part of a project with Global Legal Action Network. The intention is for the material to be so transparently presented that it can be accepted by courts of law. Bellingcat has submitted material to the UK Government’s inquiry into arms exports to Saudi Arabia.
The Covid-19 pandemic presents particular problems for an organisation which makes 30 per cent of its income from hosting workshops on open-source investigations and has put 2,000 students through its courses. Funding also comes from family foundations, such as Porticus and Adessium. Obtaining such grants is not easy with the markets in flux.
“It’s a bit nerve-racking at the moment,” admits Mr Higgins, a former blogger and video game obsessive. But 2020 should be pivotal for Bellingcat, which has just been shortlisted for the European Press Prize for Innovation following its work in assisting Europol in geolocating incidents of child abuse by analysing the landscapes in photos.
‘With this Russian spy stuff it’s solid gold’
The website is about to undergo a major upgrade that will make its toolkit of search apps more available and mobilise volunteers to assist in online sleuthing. Following its award-winning podcast knitting together the story of its MH17 investigation, Bellingcat is crowd-funding two more series, one on extrajudicial killings in Africa and another on Russian espionage. “With this Russian spy stuff it’s solid gold. We have a lot of it and it’s still not out there,” says Mr Higgins.
After the Skripal case, Bellingcat published work by Christo Grozev highlighting a similar poison attack in Bulgaria and exposing the clandestine activities of Unit 29155 of the GRU, Russia’s military intelligence agency. Mr Higgins claims to have access to “literally terabytes of information” on Russian spies.
Bellingcat’s relaunch has been delayed until June by the pandemic. It has thrown itself into exposing disinformation on coronavirus and begun investigating the rise of the far-right in Europe.
Aside from the BBC drama, this trailblazing website was the subject of an Emmy award-winning film, Bellingcat: Truth in a Post-Truth World, made by Dutch director Hans Pool. Mr Higgins wants Bellingcat to have its own film unit and hopes to turn the story of its MH17 investigation into a documentary.
Running a website like this doesn’t come without risks. Police have visited Mr Higgins at home to discuss his safety. The team’s emails have been subjected to sophisticated cyber attacks. The Killing Eve storyline about Kenny Stowton is not so fanciful, but Higgins is undaunted by the sniping and the threats. “It’s nice to know they still care,” he says.


inews--2020-04-26--Coronavirus: Liz Truss urged to halt trade negotiations with US amid Covid-19 pandemic

Coronavirus : Liz Truss urged to halt trade negotiations with US amid Covid-19 pandemic Friends of the Earth has raised 'deep concerns ' about the scrutiny of talks continuing during the lockdown Liz Truss has been urged to halt trade negotiations with the White House by environmental campaigners who have written of their “ deep concerns ” over any talks taking place during the Covid-19 crisis .
The International Trade Secretary ’ s department last month set out its negotiating objectives for a free trade agreement with the US as Boris Johnson promised a deal that would see the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
But Friends of the Earth has urged Ms Truss in a letter to rule out the resumption of talks until they can be properly scrutinised by MPs and businesses and campaigners .
More than 15,000 people have added their signatures to the letter .
Miriam Turner and Hugh Knowles , the joint chief executives of Friends of the Earth England , Wales and Northern Ireland , says : “ We have multiple concerns about trade agreements with the US , particular in relation to food standards , animal welfare protections , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These are high risk issues that need considered public debate and democratic scrutiny , but this debate can not happen amidst national lockdown , with Parliament not fully functioning and with Whitehall officials focused on the pandemic .
“ Outside of a time of crisis , when the government has the time and resources to dedicate to negotiations , we expect full public and Parliamentary engagement with appropriate scrutiny and transparency throughout the process .
“ We urge you , therefore , to publicly call a formal halt to all trade negotiations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resume until the bulk of the Covid-19 crisis has passed.
” Kierra Box , campaigner at Friends of the Earth , said : “ Government is being stretched to the limit by the coronavirus and saving lives must be the immediate priority .
This is why it makes no sense to push ahead with negotiations on a destructive deal with President Trump.
” A Government spokeswoman said : “ We remain fully committed to negotiating a free trade agreement with the US and have been repeatedly clear that we will not lower our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are committed to ensuring that our trade policy is transparent and subject to parliamentary scrutiny .
That ’ s why we have published our approach to US negotiations as well as the results of the public consultation and will continue to keep Parliament informed throughout .
”

Liz Truss has been urged to halt trade negotiations with the White House by environmental campaigners who have written of their “deep concerns” over any talks taking place during the Covid-19 crisis.
The International Trade Secretary’s department last month set out its negotiating objectives for a free trade agreement with the US as Boris Johnson promised a deal that would see the UK “trading Scottish salmon for Stetson hats”.
But Friends of the Earth has urged Ms Truss in a letter to rule out the resumption of talks until they can be properly scrutinised by MPs and businesses and campaigners. More than 15,000 people have added their signatures to the letter.
‘High risk issues’
Miriam Turner and Hugh Knowles, the joint chief executives of Friends of the Earth England, Wales and Northern Ireland, says: “We have multiple concerns about trade agreements with the US, particular in relation to food standards, animal welfare protections, and chemical and pesticide safeguards.
“These are high risk issues that need considered public debate and democratic scrutiny, but this debate cannot happen amidst national lockdown, with Parliament not fully functioning and with Whitehall officials focused on the pandemic.
“Outside of a time of crisis, when the government has the time and resources to dedicate to negotiations, we expect full public and Parliamentary engagement with appropriate scrutiny and transparency throughout the process.
“We urge you, therefore, to publicly call a formal halt to all trade negotiations and make a commitment that talks will not resume until the bulk of the Covid-19 crisis has passed.”
‘Food standards won’t be lower’
Kierra Box, campaigner at Friends of the Earth, said: “Government is being stretched to the limit by the coronavirus and saving lives must be the immediate priority. This is why it makes no sense to push ahead with negotiations on a destructive deal with President Trump.”
A Government spokeswoman said: “We remain fully committed to negotiating a free trade agreement with the US and have been repeatedly clear that we will not lower our food standards in the process.
“We are committed to ensuring that our trade policy is transparent and subject to parliamentary scrutiny. That’s why we have published our approach to US negotiations as well as the results of the public consultation and will continue to keep Parliament informed throughout.”