channel4uk--2020-09-07--Red Wall Tory MPs urge government to ‘level up’

“ Levelling up ” – it was one of the campaign promises which helped Conservatives win seats which had been @ @ @ @ @ A pledge to tackle long-term regional inequalities by making significant investments in some of the @ @ @ @ @ those new Red Wall Conservative MPs have launched a task force aimed at putting pressure @ @ @ @ @ .
Our political correspondent Liz Bates has been out with one of the MPs – @ @ @ @ @ – to see what they ’ re planning .

“Levelling up” – it was one of the campaign promises which helped Conservatives win seats which had been Labour for a generation.
A pledge to tackle long-term regional inequalities by making significant investments in some of the most deprived areas.
Now those new Red Wall Conservative MPs have launched a task force aimed at putting pressure on the government to deliver.
Our political correspondent Liz Bates has been out with one of the MPs – Stoke’s Jo Gideon – to see what they’re planning.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--Inquest opens into death of black man restrained by police

The inquest has begun into the death of a 35-year-old black man , Kevin Clarke , who died after being @ @ @ @ @ London in 2018 .
Mr Clarke , who suffered from schizophrenia and paranoia , was @ @ @ @ @ when officers intervened .
The inquest will look into whether the actions of officers contributed @ @ @ @ @ – as his family said they hoped it would give them the answers they needed @

The inquest has begun into the death of a 35-year-old black man, Kevin Clarke, who died after being restrained by police in south London in 2018.
Mr Clarke, who suffered from schizophrenia and paranoia, was having a mental health crisis when officers intervened.
The inquest will look into whether the actions of officers contributed to or caused his death – as his family said they hoped it would give them the answers they needed.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--Man arrested on suspicion of murder after Birmingham stabbings

The family of the young man who died in the series of knife attacks in Birmingham city centre on Sunday @ @ @ @ @ the light of our life ” .
Jacob Billington , who was 23 , was @ @ @ @ @ with school friends in the city .
A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion @ @ @ @ @ murder .
The police have faced criticism over whether they were too slow to respond @ @ @ @ @ Darshna Soni is in Birmingham .

The family of the young man who died in the series of knife attacks in Birmingham city centre on Sunday have described him as “the light of our life”.
Jacob Billington, who was 23, was stabbed during a night out with school friends in the city.
A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, and attempted murder.
The police have faced criticism over whether they were too slow to respond.
Our home affairs correspondent Darshna Soni is in Birmingham.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--Manchester Arena attack: Inquiry told opportunities missed to identify suicide bomber

The public inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing has been hearing claims by experts that there were missed opportunities to @ @ @ @ @ suicide bomber – before he set off the device which killed 22 people .
The @ @ @ @ @ tried to raise the alarm less than an hour before Abedi detonated his bomb , @ @ @ @ @ .

The public inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing has been hearing claims by experts that there were missed opportunities to identify Salman Abedi as a suicide bomber – before he set off the device which killed 22 people.
The inquiry heard that witnesses had tried to raise the alarm less than an hour before Abedi detonated his bomb, but no action was taken.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--‘EU negotiator Barnier set to be sidelined’ –  Tory MP Andrew Bridgen

We also asked to speak to the government about where the Brexit talks are going .
But no-one would come @ @ @ @ @ by the Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen , who has been an outspoken Eurosceptic .

We also asked to speak to the government about where the Brexit talks are going. But no-one would come on.
We were joined by the Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen, who has been an outspoken Eurosceptic.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--Britain is ‘a rogue state’ if it reneges on legal commitments taken as part of the withdrawal commit

Britain is ‘a rogue state’ if it reneges on legal commitments taken as part of the withdrawal commitment  – Belgian MEP Philippe Lambert

Earlier we spoke to the Belgian MEP Philippe Lamberts , who sits on the European Parliament ’ s Brexit Steering @ @ @ @ @ by asking him if the EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier should trust the @ @ @ @ @ ?

Earlier we spoke to the Belgian MEP Philippe Lamberts, who sits on the European Parliament’s Brexit Steering Group, and we began by asking him if the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier should trust the words of the British negotiators?


channel4uk--2020-09-07--UK government accused of ripping up part of Brexit withdrawal deal

The government has been accused of ripping up part of the Brexit withdrawal deal that took the country out of @ @ @ @ @ year .
But ministers insist that a new law to change the way customs checks @ @ @ @ @ Ireland under the agreement is just “ tidying up loose ends ” .
That ’ @ @ @ @ @ being seen in Brussels though , where they said the commitments the UK has already @ @ @ @ @ ” and a “ matter of trust ” .
Our political editor Gary Gibbon was @ @ @

The government has been accused of ripping up part of the Brexit withdrawal deal that took the country out of the European Union earlier this year.
But ministers insist that a new law to change the way customs checks and subsidies work in Northern Ireland under the agreement is just “tidying up loose ends” .
That’s not how it is being seen in Brussels though, where they said the commitments the UK has already made were “legal obligations” and a “matter of trust”.
Our political editor Gary Gibbon was in Westminster.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--Welsh government announces new local lockdown restrictions in Caerphilly

In the last hour , the Welsh government has announced new local lockdown restrictions across the borough of Caerphilly to @ @ @ @ @ local outbreak of coronavirus – they said the measures follow a surge in cases linked @ @ @ @ @ indoors without social distancing , or to holidays overseas .

In the last hour, the Welsh government has announced new local lockdown restrictions across the borough of Caerphilly to prevent the spread of a local outbreak of coronavirus – they said the measures follow a surge in cases linked to clusters of people meeting indoors without social distancing, or to holidays overseas.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--‘Don’t do what the French are doing’ – epidemiologist Dr Catherine Hill

We asked the government to speak to us about the rise in coronavirus infections .
No-one would come on .
@ @ @ @ @ by the leading epidemiologist Catherine Hill .

We asked the government to speak to us about the rise in coronavirus infections.
No-one would come on.
We were joined from Paris by the leading epidemiologist Catherine Hill.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--‘Don’t kill you Gran’- Hancock issues warning to young people to curb Covid spread

Young people have been warned to stick to social distancing rules and avoid the risk of sparking a second wave @ @ @ @ @ Matt Hancock said the surge in cases seen in France and Spain had begun with @ @ @ @ @ we ’ ve seen where this leads , and it ’ s not a good @ @ @ @ @ come as the UK reported a second day of almost 3,000 new cases , though @ @ @ @ @ remain low .

Young people have been warned to stick to social distancing rules and avoid the risk of sparking a second wave of coronavirus.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the surge in cases seen in France and Spain had begun with young people – warning “we’ve seen where this leads, and it’s not a good place”.
His comments come as the UK reported a second day of almost 3,000 new cases, though the number of deaths still remain low.


channel4uk--2020-09-07--‘Don’t kill your Gran’- Hancock issues warning to young people to curb Covid spread


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Prize-winning teenage author Dara McAnulty: ‘I want to see young people writing about nature’

His writing has been praised by nature writers and naturalists alike and he ’ s been described as the young @ @ @ @ @ .
Autistic teenager Dara McAnulty is the youngest ever winner of a major literary prize @ @ @ @ @ Prize about an hour ago for his moving and heartfelt chronicle , reflecting on nature @ @ @ @ @ changing biosphere .
Here is Dara reading an extract from his book , Diary of @ @ @ @

His writing has been praised by nature writers and naturalists alike and he’s been described as the young star of the Conservation movement.
Autistic teenager Dara McAnulty is the youngest ever winner of a major literary prize. He won the Wainwright Prize about an hour ago for his moving and heartfelt chronicle, reflecting on nature and the world’s changing biosphere.
Here is Dara reading an extract from his book, Diary of A Young Naturalist.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Row over what happens to site of Grenfell Tower

There is increasing concern over whether the recommendations of the Grenfell inquiry will be implemented .
Last night a Labour @ @ @ @ @ owners of flats to share information with fire services , was voted down by the @ @ @ @ @ fire safety reforms will be introduced in the “ fastest possible time ” .
A @ @ @ @ @ what will happen to the site of the tower .

There is increasing concern over whether the recommendations of the Grenfell inquiry will be implemented.
Last night a Labour amendment, which would force owners of flats to share information with fire services, was voted down by the Conservatives.
The Government insists fire safety reforms will be introduced in the “fastest possible time”.
A row has also developed over what will happen to the site of the tower.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Belarus opposition leader ‘ripped up passport to stop deportation’

In Belarus , the opposition leader Maria Kolesnikova has reportedly tried to stop herself being deported by tearing up her @ @ @ @ @ .
She was bundled into a car by masked men in the centre of the @ @ @ @ @ been mass protests in Belarus since President Lukashenko declared himself the winner of the country @ @ @ @ @ ago .

In Belarus, the opposition leader Maria Kolesnikova has reportedly tried to stop herself being deported by tearing up her passport at the Ukrainian border.
She was bundled into a car by masked men in the centre of the capital Minsk yesterday
There have been mass protests in Belarus since President Lukashenko declared himself the winner of the country’s election five weeks ago.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Manchester Arena inquiry told only one paramedic on scene in first 40 minutes after bombing

The inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing has been told that only one paramedic was at the scene of the @ @ @ @ @ minutes after the blast .
The inquiry has heard about delays and confusion after the @ @ @ @ @ 22 dead – even though emergency services had rehearsed for an attack on the same @ @ @ @ @ before .
And a warning , this report from our north of England correspondent Clare @ @ @ @ @ viewers may find distressing .

The inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing has been told that only one paramedic was at the scene of the explosion for the first 40 minutes after the blast.
The inquiry has heard about delays and confusion after the May 2017 attack which left 22 dead – even though emergency services had rehearsed for an attack on the same venue less than a year before.
And a warning, this report from our north of England correspondent Clare Fallon contains content that some viewers may find distressing.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--‘In 50 years as a Conservative Party member, I’ve always believed in upholding the rule of law. I do

‘In 50 years as a Conservative Party member, I’ve always believed in upholding the rule of law. I don’t think one should depart from that’ – Tory MP Sir Bob Neill

We spoke to Sir Bob Neill – the Conservative MP who asked the question of Brandon Lewis that prompted the @ @ @ @ @ We asked him what he thought of the reply he got .

We spoke to Sir Bob Neill – the Conservative MP who asked the question of Brandon Lewis that prompted the Minister’s admission.
We asked him what he thought of the reply he got.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Concerns in Northern Ireland over Good Friday Agreement if government changes Brexit deal

Paul McNamara has spent the day in Northern Ireland on the border in South Armagh near Newry .

Paul McNamara has spent the day in Northern Ireland on the border in South Armagh near Newry.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--‘No deal would be failure PM would have to own’ – Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer

We caught up with Keir Starmer , and started by asking him about the resignation of the government ’ s @ @ @

We caught up with Keir Starmer, and started by asking him about the resignation of the government’s top lawyer.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Minister admits changes to Brexit deal would break international law

It was one of those extraordinary parliamentary moments .
The Northern Ireland secretary admitted that the government was intending to @ @ @ @ @ the EU Withdrawal Agreement , which sets out how Britain and the EU would agree @ @ @ @ @ Britain and Northern Ireland .
The Government is giving itself powers to decide on those @ @ @ @ @ has prompted the resignation of the Government ’ s chief legal officer .

It was one of those extraordinary parliamentary moments.
The Northern Ireland secretary admitted that the government was intending to break international law – specifically the EU Withdrawal Agreement, which sets out how Britain and the EU would agree new rules on trade between Britain and Northern Ireland.
The Government is giving itself powers to decide on those rules unilaterally.
That decision has prompted the resignation of the Government’s chief legal officer.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--‘We should maintain the easing of lockdown – and put in place measures to prevent such reactive even

‘We should maintain the easing of lockdown – and put in place measures to prevent such reactive events as closing schools down’ – Oxford University’s Prof Sunetra Gupta

We spoke to Sunetra Gupta , Professor of Theoretical Epidemiology at the University of Oxford , and began by asking @ @ @ @ @ at the jump in the number of Covid deaths announced earlier today .

We spoke to Sunetra Gupta, Professor of Theoretical Epidemiology at the University of Oxford, and began by asking her if she was surprised at the jump in the number of Covid deaths announced earlier today.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Caerphilly county lockdown comes into effect

While the Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced instant restrictions for Bolton , another local lockdown was coming into effect in @ @ @ @ @ Affairs Correspondent Andy Davies is in Caerphilly

While the Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced instant restrictions for Bolton, another local lockdown was coming into effect in South Wales.
Our Home Affairs Correspondent Andy Davies is in Caerphilly


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Critical to get testing system up and running before the winter

The forecast for the next 5 days

Health and social care editor, Victoria Macdonald, discusses the staffing issues around increasing the UK’s testing capacity.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Mass testing ‘only way normal life can carry on’ – former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt

We spoke to Jeremy Hunt – the former Health Secretary – who ’ s now chair of the Commons Health @ @ @ @ @ asking him how concerned he was about the rising number of Covid cases nationally .

We spoke to Jeremy Hunt – the former Health Secretary – who’s now chair of the Commons Health Committee, and began by asking him how concerned he was about the rising number of Covid cases nationally.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Local lockdowns imposed as Covid testing system struggles to cope

Just two months after the national lockdown was lifted , it is now illegal for residents in Bolton to mix @ @ @ @ @ households , even outdoors .
Restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway service only @ @ @ @ @ open .
All the new restrictions , which will take effect immediately , came as @ @ @ @ @ rate in England .
For the rest of the country , the latest daily figures @ @ @ @ @ That ’ s the highest daily rise since early July .
They show that a @ @ @ @ @ within 28 days of testing positive .
Today ’ s official figures unusually do not @ @ @ @ @ has been a further significant rise in cases of 2,420 .

Just two months after the national lockdown was lifted, it is now illegal for residents in Bolton to mix with people outside their own households, even outdoors.
Restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway service only, but schools will remain open.
All the new restrictions, which will take effect immediately, came as Bolton reported the highest infection rate in England.
For the rest of the country, the latest daily figures show 30 Covid deaths. That’s the highest daily rise since early July.
They show that a total of 41,584 have died within 28 days of testing positive.
Today’s official figures unusually do not include Northern Ireland.
There has been a further significant rise in cases of 2,420.


channel4uk--2020-09-08--Belarus opposition leader ‘snatched from street’ in Minsk

The leading Belarus opposition politician Maria Kolesnikova has been “ snatched from the street ” in Minsk and driven away @ @ @ @ @ other opposition figures who worked with her have also disappeared .
Ms Kolesnikova was the @ @ @ @ @ Lukashenko to have remained inside the country .
This programme has footage of her filmed @ @ @ @ @ thousands of anti-government protestors marched in Minsk – and we have this report .

The leading Belarus opposition politician Maria Kolesnikova has been “snatched from the street” in Minsk and driven away in a minivan.
Two other opposition figures who worked with her have also disappeared.
Ms Kolesnikova was the most prominent critic of President Lukashenko to have remained inside the country.
This programme has footage of her filmed on Sunday as ten of thousands of anti-government protestors marched in Minsk – and we have this report.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--Belarus protests will continue ‘because people can no longer live with that abuse of human rights’ –

Belarus protests will continue ‘because people can no longer live with that abuse of human rights’ – Prof Elena Korosteleva

We spoke to Prof Elena Korosteleva , who ’ s chair of international politics at Kent University and is herself @ @ @ @ @ her how difficult it would now become for opposition figures in the country to mobilise @

We spoke to Prof Elena Korosteleva, who’s chair of international politics at Kent University and is herself from Belarus.
We asked her how difficult it would now become for opposition figures in the country to mobilise.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--Belarus opposition figure arrested in his office by masked men

Another leading Belarus opposition figure has been arrested , as the authorities continue to crack down on dissent .
Maxim @ @ @ @ @ office by unidentified people wearing ski masks .
European diplomats also gathered at the apartment @ @ @ @ @ writer Svetlana Alexievich – after she said masked men had tried to break in – @ @ @ @ @ trying to abduct the best of us ” .

Another leading Belarus opposition figure has been arrested, as the authorities continue to crack down on dissent.
Maxim Znak was snatched from his office by unidentified people wearing ski masks. European diplomats also gathered at the apartment of the Nobel prize winning writer Svetlana Alexievich – after she said masked men had tried to break in – telling reporters “they are trying to abduct the best of us”.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--Manchester Arena inquiry told victim might have survived with quicker response

The inquiry into the Manchester Arena atrocity has heard claims that one of those killed in the bombing might have @ @ @ @ @ been a more rapid response by the emergency services .
Problems with communication and confusion @ @ @ @ @ an hour to get some of the injured to ambulances .
The inquiry also heard @ @ @ @ @ had been visiting a convicted terrorist in prison in the months before the attack .

The inquiry into the Manchester Arena atrocity has heard claims that one of those killed in the bombing might have survived – if there had been a more rapid response by the emergency services.
Problems with communication and confusion meant it took more than an hour to get some of the injured to ambulances. The inquiry also heard that the bomber Salman Abedi had been visiting a convicted terrorist in prison in the months before the attack.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--Thousands in desperate need after fire destroys Greece’s biggest refugee camp

More than 12,000 people are in urgent need of shelter on the island of Lesbos , after fire destroyed Greece @ @ @ @ @ .
This week a number of camp residents tested positive for coronavirus , and the @ @ @ @ @ the fires were started deliberately , in protest against the camp being put under quarantine @ @ @ @ @ and refugees from reaching the capital of the island .

More than 12,000 people are in urgent need of shelter on the island of Lesbos, after fire destroyed Greece’s biggest refugee camp.
This week a number of camp residents tested positive for coronavirus, and the Greek authorities say they believe the fires were started deliberately, in protest against the camp being put under quarantine. Police stopped the migrants and refugees from reaching the capital of the island.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--Proposed Brexit deal changes ‘unwise path for British government to go down and not the behaviour of

Proposed Brexit deal changes ‘unwise path for British government to go down and not the behaviour of an honourable country’ – Fine Gael’s Neale Richmond

We were joined from Dublin by the Fine Gael TD and spokesperson on Brexit , Neale Richmond .

We were joined from Dublin by the Fine Gael TD and spokesperson on Brexit, Neale Richmond.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--Irish politicians fear UK Brexit plans could undermine Good Friday Agreement

The Internal Markets Bill has thrust the vexed issue of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic back to @ @ @ @ @ negotiations .
The UK government ’ s plan to potentially backtrack on tariffs and customs @ @ @ @ @ who warned it could sink a trade deal – as well as Irish politicians who @ @ @ @ @ Good Friday peace agreement .

The Internal Markets Bill has thrust the vexed issue of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic back to centre stage in the Brexit negotiations.
The UK government’s plan to potentially backtrack on tariffs and customs checks has infuriated EU negotiators who warned it could sink a trade deal – as well as Irish politicians who claimed it could undermine the Good Friday peace agreement.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--‘The Union is at greater peril that at any time during my political lifetime’, says Mark Drakeford,

‘The Union is at greater peril that at any time during my political lifetime’, says Mark Drakeford, First Minister of Wales

We spoke to the First Minister of Wales , Mark Drakeford – and began by asking whether he was celebrating @ @ @ @ @ billed as the biggest transfer of power in the history of devolution .

We spoke to the First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford – and began by asking whether he was celebrating, because this is being billed as the biggest transfer of power in the history of devolution.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--SNP’s Ian Blackford says Scottish parliament is ‘under threat’ and can only be protected by stopping

SNP’s Ian Blackford says Scottish parliament is ‘under threat’ and can only be protected by stopping UK PM

We are joined by the SNP ’ s Westminster leader , Ian Blackford , who caused something of a furore @ @ @ @ @ “ barefaced liar ” in the Commons .

We are joined by the SNP’s Westminster leader, Ian Blackford, who caused something of a furore after calling Boris Johnson a “barefaced liar” in the Commons.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--Sturgeon accuses Johnson of ‘naked power grab’

Scotland ’ s First Minister , Nicola Sturgeon , was swift to condemn the UK government ’ s Brexit proposals @ @ @ @ @ Bill as a “ naked power grab which would cripple devolution ” .

Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, was swift to condemn the UK government’s Brexit proposals, describing the Internal Market Bill as a “naked power grab which would cripple devolution”.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--EU leaders issue warnings over Johnson plan to override parts of Brexit deal

Today has seen a chorus of warnings and concern from European Union leaders over Boris Johnson ’ s plans to @ @ @ @ @ Brexit deal .
They spoke up as the government published legislation that it admits would @ @ @ @ @ Johnson insisted he was trying to preserve the Northern Ireland peace process – but one @ @ @ @ @ The former prime minister Sir John Major said if Britain failed to keep its promises @ @ @ @ @ lost something beyond price that may never be regained ” .

Today has seen a chorus of warnings and concern from European Union leaders over Boris Johnson’s plans to override key elements of the Brexit deal.
They spoke up as the government published legislation that it admits would breach international law.
Mr Johnson insisted he was trying to preserve the Northern Ireland peace process – but one of its architects disagreed.
The former prime minister Sir John Major said if Britain failed to keep its promises, we will have “lost something beyond price that may never be regained” .


channel4uk--2020-09-09--England’s deputy chief medical officer tells public to be cautious as Covid restrictions ‘may go on

England’s deputy chief medical officer tells public to be cautious as Covid restrictions ‘may go on for several months’

We asked to speak to England ’ s Health Secretary , Matt Hancock , or a health minister from his @ @ @ @ @ ’ t come on the programme .
However , we did speak to Jenny Harries @ @ @ @ @ Chief Medical Officer for England .
We started by asking whether the prime minister ’ @ @ @ @ @ was as achievable as putting a man on the moon ?

We asked to speak to England’s Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, or a health minister from his department – but they wouldn’t come on the programme.
However, we did speak to Jenny Harries, who is the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England.
We started by asking whether the prime minister’s ambitious moonshot testing plan was as achievable as putting a man on the moon?


channel4uk--2020-09-09--How new Covid measures will affect people’s lives

The government ’ s announcements on coronavirus measures are an attempt to move beyond a summer of confusing messages and @ @ @ @ @ But how do people in England feel about the new restrictions due to come in @ @ @ @ @ will it mean for them ?

The government’s announcements on coronavirus measures are an attempt to move beyond a summer of confusing messages and prevent another national lockdown.
But how do people in England feel about the new restrictions due to come in on Monday – and what will it mean for them?


channel4uk--2020-09-09--PM creates ‘rule of six’ for social gatherings in England to counter second Covid wave

Limit your social contact “ as much as possible ” at all times and keep to groups of no more @ @ @ @ @ s the stark message from Boris Johnson as he outlined the new restrictions for England @ @ @ @ @ to curb the new surge of coronavirus cases across the country .
There were stark @ @ @ @ @ medical officer , who warned that the time between now and spring will be “ @ @ @ @ @ figures show there have been another 2,659 confirmed coronavirus cases across the UK in the @ @ @ @ @ number of deaths has gone up by eight to a total of 41,594 .

Limit your social contact “as much as possible” at all times and keep to groups of no more than six. That’s the stark message from Boris Johnson as he outlined the new restrictions for England, saying they are vital to curb the new surge of coronavirus cases across the country.
There were stark words too from his chief medical officer, who warned that the time between now and spring will be “difficult”.
The latest figures show there have been another 2,659 confirmed coronavirus cases across the UK in the last 24 hours.
The number of deaths has gone up by eight to a total of 41,594.


channel4uk--2020-09-09--FactCheck: government rationale for a precedent to break international law doesn’t seem to add up

There were raised eyebrows across the House of Commons yesterday as senior minister Brandon Lewis admitted that a new government bill published today “ does break international law in a very specific and limited way ” .
The head of the Government Legal Department – the most senior non-political lawyer in Whitehall – resigned over the decision , which is set to change parts of the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with Brussels .
Mr Lewis said there was precedent for doing this , in the form of the 2013 Finance Act .
But his account of what happened in that case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Lewis told the House : “ There are clear precedents for the UK and indeed other countries needing to consider their international obligations as circumstances change.
” He continued : “ And I would say to Honorable Members here , many of whom would have been in this House when we passed the Finance Act in 2013 , which contains an example of treaty override , it contains provisions that expressly disapply international tax treaties to the extent that these conflict with the general anti-abuse rule ” .
The Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the idea of passing domestic legislation that breaks international law because many of them have done it before .
What Mr Lewis didn ’ t mention is that at the time the 2013 Finance bill was being debated in Parliament , the government was insisting that the “ general anti-abuse rule ” ( GAAR ) it contained did not violate our existing international obligations .
David Gauke , who was then the minister in charge of tax legislation , stated categorically in a debate in April 2013 : “ The GAAR does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lack of time , I will not go into further detail , but it acts in much the same way as GAARs do for other countries that respect OECD and UN model tax treaties.
” And when the 2013 Act was still a draft bill , a senior HMRC official told the Select Committee on Economic Affairs : “ we believe that the GAAR does not override our international obligations .
[ … ] We really do not see that there is an issue there.
” So at the time they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the government that passing the legislation would not breach international commitments .
That ’ s a very different situation to the one the current crop find themselves in today , with the government making no bones about the fact that their plans would do just that .
The actual question of whether the 2013 Finance Act did violate international treaties is a little more complicated .
In short , the answer appears to be that it did not .
Guidance from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development ( OECD ) at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general rule , there will be no conflict between such rules [ as the GAAR ] and the provisions of tax conventions ” .
And that ’ s still the position of the architects of the GAAR .
Then-chancellor George Osborne , ex-minister David Gauke and Judith Freeman , who is a Professor of Tax Law at the University of Oxford and was one of the experts advising the government on the rules at the time , have all pushed back against Mr Lewis ’ comments yesterday .
Professor Freeman told FactCheck : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no override [ in the 2013 Act ] because there is no conflict in the first place ” .
She said : “ Domestic anti avoidance provisions [ like the GAAR ] are not inconsistent with treaties provided they are targeted and drafted in the right way , which in my view and that of all involved with the legislation , ours was.
” Senior minister Brandon Lewis told the Commons yesterday that the government ’ s forthcoming Internal Market bill will “ break international law ” .
The Northern Ireland secretary suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of passing domestic legislation that breaks international law because many of them did so when they ratified the 2013 Finance Act .
But at the time MPs passed that bill , it was the government ’ s expressly stated position that the legislation did not violate our international obligations .
That ’ s a different proposition to the one Mr Lewis is making to MPs now by asking them to pass a law that knowingly violates an international treaty .
Indeed , three of the architects of the legislation in question – two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – have all rejected Mr Lewis ’ claim that the 2013 Act broke international law to begin with .

There were raised eyebrows across the House of Commons yesterday as senior minister Brandon Lewis admitted that a new government bill published today “does break international law in a very specific and limited way”.
The head of the Government Legal Department – the most senior non-political lawyer in Whitehall – resigned over the decision, which is set to change parts of the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with Brussels.
Mr Lewis said there was precedent for doing this, in the form of the 2013 Finance Act. But his account of what happened in that case doesn’t seem to add up.
The claim
Mr Lewis told the House: “There are clear precedents for the UK and indeed other countries needing to consider their international obligations as circumstances change.”
He continued: “And I would say to Honorable Members here, many of whom would have been in this House when we passed the Finance Act in 2013, which contains an example of treaty override, it contains provisions that expressly disapply international tax treaties to the extent that these conflict with the general anti-abuse rule”.
The analysis
The Northern Ireland secretary suggested that MPs should be comfortable with the idea of passing domestic legislation that breaks international law because many of them have done it before.
What Mr Lewis didn’t mention is that at the time the 2013 Finance bill was being debated in Parliament, the government was insisting that the “general anti-abuse rule” (GAAR) it contained did not violate our existing international obligations.
David Gauke, who was then the minister in charge of tax legislation, stated categorically in a debate in April 2013: “The GAAR does not override UK tax treaties. Given the lack of time, I will not go into further detail, but it acts in much the same way as GAARs do for other countries that respect OECD and UN model tax treaties.”
And when the 2013 Act was still a draft bill, a senior HMRC official told the Select Committee on Economic Affairs: “we believe that the GAAR does not override our international obligations. […] We really do not see that there is an issue there.”
So at the time they were voting on it, MPs were assured by the government that passing the legislation would not breach international commitments.
That’s a very different situation to the one the current crop find themselves in today, with the government making no bones about the fact that their plans would do just that.
The actual question of whether the 2013 Finance Act did violate international treaties is a little more complicated. In short, the answer appears to be that it did not.
Guidance from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) at the time said that “as a general rule, there will be no conflict between such rules [as the GAAR] and the provisions of tax conventions”.
And that’s still the position of the architects of the GAAR. Then-chancellor George Osborne, ex-minister David Gauke and Judith Freedman, who is a Professor of Tax Law at the University of Oxford and was one of the experts advising the government on the rules at the time, have all pushed back against Mr Lewis’ comments yesterday.
Professor Freedman told FactCheck: “I would argue that there is no override [in the 2013 Act] because there is no conflict in the first place”. She said: “Domestic anti avoidance provisions [like the GAAR] are not inconsistent with treaties provided they are targeted and drafted in the right way, which in my view and that of all involved with the legislation, ours was.”
FactCheck verdict
Senior minister Brandon Lewis told the Commons yesterday that the government’s forthcoming Internal Market bill will “break international law”.
The Northern Ireland secretary suggested MPs should be comfortable with the idea of passing domestic legislation that breaks international law because many of them did so when they ratified the 2013 Finance Act.
But at the time MPs passed that bill, it was the government’s expressly stated position that the legislation did not violate our international obligations. That’s a different proposition to the one Mr Lewis is making to MPs now by asking them to pass a law that knowingly violates an international treaty.
Indeed, three of the architects of the legislation in question – two ex-ministers and one professor of tax law – have all rejected Mr Lewis’ claim that the 2013 Act broke international law to begin with.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--Avengers, James Bond and Game of Thrones actor Dame Diana Rigg dies aged 82

Glamorous , confident and centre stage – actress Dame Diana Rigg made her mark playing Emma Peel in the iconic @ @ @ @ @ Late on in her six-decade career she appeared in Game of Thrones , although she @ @ @ @ @ the series .
In March she was diagnosed with cancer .
Today her death was @ @ @ @ @ 82 .

Glamorous, confident and centre stage – actress Dame Diana Rigg made her mark playing Emma Peel in the iconic sixties series the Avengers.
Late on in her six-decade career she appeared in Game of Thrones, although she claimed never to have watched the series.
In March she was diagnosed with cancer. Today her death was announced at the age of 82.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--‘Stop assuming that somebody, something or some agency has our back’ – environmental campaigner Erin

‘Stop assuming that somebody, something or some agency has our back’ – environmental campaigner Erin Brockovich

Not many environmental campaigners find their lives being portrayed on the big screen .
But Erin Brockovich isn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ Krishnan Guru-Murthy spoke to the woman whose story was brought memorably to life by Julia @ @ @ @ @ 2000 .

Not many environmental campaigners find their lives being portrayed on the big screen.
But Erin Brockovich isn’t just any environmental campaigner. Krishnan Guru-Murthy spoke to the woman whose story was brought memorably to life by Julia Roberts back in the year 2000.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--‘There is consensus about some of the steps that need to be taken’ on tackling climate change – CEO

‘There is consensus about some of the steps that need to be taken’ on tackling climate change – CEO of Committee on Climate Change

We ’ re joined by Marc Robson , one of the 110 members of the UK Climate Assembly .
And @ @ @ @ @ , the CEO of the Committee on Climate Change .

We’re joined by Marc Robson, one of the 110 members of the UK Climate Assembly. And from Glasgow, Chris Stark, the CEO of the Committee on Climate Change.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--Members of the public give climate change solutions to MPs following ‘citizens’ assembly’

Here in Druridge Bay local campaigners are celebrating the success of their campaign to stop plans for a new open @ @ @ @ @ could they inspire more people to act to tackle climate change ?
There were plenty @ @ @ @ @ to do in today ’ s report from the Citizens Assembly brought together to look @ @ @ @ @ with devastating wildfires raging once again on America ’ s west coast , there ’ @ @ @ @ @ change remains an urgent question .

Here in Druridge Bay local campaigners are celebrating the success of their campaign to stop plans for a new open cast coal mine.
So could they inspire more people to act to tackle climate change?
There were plenty of practical suggestions of what to do in today’s report from the Citizens Assembly brought together to look at government policy.
And with devastating wildfires raging once again on America’s west coast, there’s no doubt that climate change remains an urgent question.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--Scottish care home staff say they waited for days for Covid test results

Our Scotland correspondent Ciaran Jenkins has been to a care home in Grantown-on-Spey which waited days for test results , @ @ @ @ @ staff member who had been doing the testing was positive herself .

Our Scotland correspondent Ciaran Jenkins has been to a care home in Grantown-on-Spey which waited days for test results, only to find that the staff member who had been doing the testing was positive herself.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--Tory MP tells health secretary to ‘get a grip’ and stop blaming public over Covid testing

The Health Secretary has again said the country ’ s Covid testing system is being challenged in part because people @ @ @ @ @ tests .
But with some sick people being directed miles from home to find out @ @ @ @ @ , Conservative MPs are telling Mr Hancock to get a grip and stop blaming the @ @ @ @ @ show there have been another 2,919 coronavirus cases across the UK in the last 24 @ @ @ @ @ new deaths has gone up by 14 to a total of 41,608 .
Of course @ @ @ @ @ testing more vital than for the residents in care homes and supported living .

The Health Secretary has again said the country’s Covid testing system is being challenged in part because people without symptoms are using up tests.
But with some sick people being directed miles from home to find out if they have the virus, Conservative MPs are telling Mr Hancock to get a grip and stop blaming the public.
The latest figures show there have been another 2,919 coronavirus cases across the UK in the last 24 hours. The number of new deaths has gone up by 14 to a total of 41,608.
Of course nowhere is the question of testing more vital than for the residents in care homes and supported living.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--Democratic Congressman says Brexit deal issue in NI ‘goes beyond taxes and tariffs – it is preservin

Democratic Congressman says Brexit deal issue in NI ‘goes beyond taxes and tariffs – it is preserving a fairly fragile peace’

We ’ re joined by Democratic Congressman Brendan Boyle – who sits on the ways and means committee – which @ @ @ @ @ legislation relating to issues that include international trade agreements .

We’re joined by Democratic Congressman Brendan Boyle – who sits on the ways and means committee – which is the principal source of legislation relating to issues that include international trade agreements.


channel4uk--2020-09-10--EU threatens to take UK government to court over proposed changes to Brexit deal

The Vice-President of the EU Commission has called on the UK government to withdraw a proposed bill that would allow @ @ @ @ @ Withdrawal agreement .
And to do it by the end of the month , if @ @ @ @ @ legal action .
But Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove declared the government “ would not @ @ @ @ @ its bill .
The pound slumped and with it the already fading hopes of a @ @ @

The Vice-President of the EU Commission has called on the UK government to withdraw a proposed bill that would allow ministers to modify the EU Withdrawal agreement. And to do it by the end of the month, if not before, or face legal action.
But Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove declared the government “would not and could not” withdraw its bill. The pound slumped and with it the already fading hopes of a trade deal.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--Rwandan government accused of ‘enforced disappearance’ of  ‘Hotel Rwanda’ manager

A human rights charity has accused the Rwandan government of the “ enforced disappearance ” of the hotel manager whose @ @ @ @ @ Hotel Rwanda .
Human Rights Watch says that the government committed a serious violation of @ @ @ @ @ a full account of how Paul Rusesabagina was flown from Dubai to Kigali where he @ @ @ @

A human rights charity has accused the Rwandan government of the “enforced disappearance” of the hotel manager whose story inspired the Oscar-nominated film Hotel Rwanda.
Human Rights Watch says that the government committed a serious violation of international law and are demanding a full account of how Paul Rusesabagina was flown from Dubai to Kigali where he faces terrorism charges.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--‘Donald Trump has nothing to do with Kenosha citizens listening to the Blake family and responding’

‘Donald Trump has nothing to do with Kenosha citizens listening to the Blake family and responding’ – Jacob Blake’s uncle Justin

Kenosha is a pivotal battleground in the US election .
Here is where race and police relations have come to @ @ @ @ @ of Jacob Blake last month .
We ’ ve been speaking to Jacob Blake ’ @ @ @ @ @ was with two Kenosha activists Greg Bennett and Tanya McLean .
Ahead of tomorrow ’ @ @ @ @ @ him how tense is this community ?

Kenosha is a pivotal battleground in the US election.
Here is where race and police relations have come to the fore after the shooting of Jacob Blake last month.
We’ve been speaking to Jacob Blake’s uncle Justin, who was with two Kenosha activists Greg Bennett and Tanya McLean. Ahead of tomorrow’s protest, I asked him how tense is this community?


channel4uk--2020-09-11--‘Trump administration asleep at wheel in dealing with climate change and Covid’ – scientist Dr Ben S

‘Trump administration asleep at wheel in dealing with climate change and Covid’ – scientist Dr Ben Santer

We spoke to Dr Ben Santer , a climate scientist based in California ’ s bay area .
Santer ’ @ @ @ @ @ the historic 1995 conclusion of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change – that human activity @ @ @ @ @ in global warming .
We asked him whether he believes the twin issues of Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ people to sit up and listen to scientists .

We spoke to Dr Ben Santer, a climate scientist based in California’s bay area.
Santer’s early research contributed to the historic 1995 conclusion of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change – that human activity was playing a discernible role in global warming.
We asked him whether he believes the twin issues of Covid-19 and climate change will force people to sit up and listen to scientists.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--Deadly US west coast wildfires forces 500,000 to evacuate in Oregon

On the west coast of the US , there ’ s been no respite from devastating wildfires .
In California @ @ @ @ @ dozens of large and aggressive fires have forced hundreds of thousands of people from their @ @ @ @ @ .

On the west coast of the US, there’s been no respite from devastating wildfires.
In California, Oregon and Washington – dozens of large and aggressive fires have forced hundreds of thousands of people from their homes and destroyed entire towns.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--Trump and Biden commemorate 9/11 attacks at Pennsylvania crash site

Kenosha in Wisconsin is one of the places which could make or break the election for Donald Trump .
Trump @ @ @ @ @ whisker and really needs it again .
But the battle has been defined here by @ @ @ @ @ , a black man shot and paralysed by a white police officer last month .
@ @ @ @ @ on these streets – and two anti-racism protesters were killed .
Kenosha is relatively normal @ @ @ @ @ up the damage – although the president claims credit for that the Blake family tell @ @ @ @ @ ones who brought calm .
Here is the latest in the campaign trail on the @ @ @ @ @ attacks by Al Qaeda , which determined so much of world events ever since .

Kenosha in Wisconsin is one of the places which could make or break the election for Donald Trump.
Trump won last time by a whisker and really needs it again.
But the battle has been defined here by the case of Jacob Blake, a black man shot and paralysed by a white police officer last month.
There were protests and riots on these streets – and two anti-racism protesters were killed.
Kenosha is relatively normal again now, and clearing up the damage – although the president claims credit for that the Blake family tell us tonight they are the ones who brought calm.
Here is the latest in the campaign trail on the 19th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by Al Qaeda, which determined so much of world events ever since.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--UK Brexit deal plans ‘would damage our reputation and make it harder to strike trade deals’ – Tory M

UK Brexit deal plans ‘would damage our reputation and make it harder to strike trade deals’ – Tory MP Sir Bob Neill

We asked the government for an interview on the trade negotiations developments but no one was available – but we @ @ @ @ @ Sir Bob Neill , who chairs the Commons Justice Committee .
He has tabled an @ @ @ @ @ he said would impose a “ parliamentary lock ” on any changes to the Withdrawal @ @ @ @ @ on a conference call the prime minister held with 250 Tory MPs .

We asked the government for an interview on the trade negotiations developments but no one was available – but we were joined by Conservative MP Sir Bob Neill, who chairs the Commons Justice Committee.
He has tabled an amendment to the bill which he said would impose a “parliamentary lock” on any changes to the Withdrawal Agreement.
He was also on a conference call the prime minister held with 250 Tory MPs.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--UK agrees trade deal with Japan as row with EU intensifies

The UK Government has hailed it a historic moment – the first trade deal since Brexit – a deal with @ @ @ @ @ £15 billion .
But that ’ s a fraction of the trade closer to home @ @ @ @ @ European Union .
And with the EU now threatening legal action , that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ precarious position .

The UK Government has hailed it a historic moment – the first trade deal since Brexit – a deal with Japan it says is worth £15 billion.
But that’s a fraction of the trade closer to home, the one with the European Union.
And with the EU now threatening legal action, that’s still very much in a precarious position.
Our Business and Global Trade Correspondent Paul McNamara reports.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--UK economy grows by 6.6% in July

UK economy grows by 6.6% in July

Some light in all the Covid-19 darkness , with the economy growing by 6.6 per cent in July .
This @ @ @ @ @ of recovery following the reopening of pubs , restaurants and cafes in England from early @ @ @ @ @ ray of light the calm before a future storm ?
Our output is well below @ @ @ @ @ bracing themselves for the end of the coronavirus job support schemes next month .

Some light in all the Covid-19 darkness, with the economy growing by 6.6 per cent in July.
This is the third consecutive month of recovery following the reopening of pubs, restaurants and cafes in England from early July. But is this ray of light the calm before a future storm?
Our output is well below pre-pandemic levels and many are bracing themselves for the end of the coronavirus job support schemes next month.
Our Economics Correspondent Helia Ebrahimi reports


channel4uk--2020-09-11--How people’s requests for coronavirus tests are being met

For weeks , we ’ ve heard anecdotal reports of people being told to travel tens – if not hundreds @ @ @ @ @ to have a Covid test .
Today we put out a call on social media @ @ @ @ @ experiences in getting a test .
Some responses were good , but many were not @ @ @ @ @ snapshot .

For weeks, we’ve heard anecdotal reports of people being told to travel tens – if not hundreds – of miles in order to have a Covid test.
Today we put out a call on social media asking for people’s experiences in getting a test.
Some responses were good, but many were not. Here’s a snapshot.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--Birmingham households banned from mixing as coronavirus cases soar

Birmingham now has the second highest rate of Covid-19 infection in England , just behind Bolton .
Households in the @ @ @ @ @ city have been banned from mixing , with new restrictions coming into force there and @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday .

Birmingham now has the second highest rate of Covid-19 infection in England, just behind Bolton.
Households in the UK’s second largest city have been banned from mixing, with new restrictions coming into force there and in neighbouring Sandwell and Solihull on Tuesday.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--R number above 1.0 in UK as coronavirus cases double every week in England

We ’ ve been watching the virus ‘ R ’ or reproduction rate steadily creep up .
Well , today @ @ @ @ @ the UK .
Also today lockdown rules tightened in Britain ’ s second largest city @ @ @ @ @ in England every week .
In the last 24 hours , the total number of @ @ @ @ @ has risen by 3,539 – this is the highest since May .
There have been @ @ @ @ @ bringing the total number to 41,614 .

We’ve been watching the virus ‘R’ or reproduction rate steadily creep up.
Well, today it rose above 1.0 across the UK. Also today lockdown rules tightened in Britain’s second largest city Birmingham. Cases are doubling in England every week.
In the last 24 hours, the total number of people testing positive for coronavirus has risen by 3,539 – this is the highest since May.
There have been six more deaths reported, bringing the total number to 41,614.


channel4uk--2020-09-11--FactCheck: what’s going on with Covid testing?

Reports of serious problems with the UK ’ s coronavirus testing system first emerged around a week ago , with stories about people being asked to travel hundreds of miles to get a Covid-19 swab test .
Since then , official figures have since shown a recent fall in the number of people being tested each day in England .
There is clearly something going on .
But getting answers from the UK government is proving to be a frustrating business .
Ministers tend to want to want to dwell on the UK ’ s “ capacity ” to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people being tested .
Testing capacity “ is based on reports from labs on how many tests they have capacity to carry out each day based on availability of staff and resources ” .
This number is high , and going up , but it doesn ’ t tell us how well the rest of the system is functioning .
The latest figures for NHS Test and Trace in England show that 436,884 people were tested between August 27 and September 2 .
That ’ s about 25,000 fewer people than the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearly 6 per cent .
In other words , an average of 62,400 people were being tested a day in the latest figures , compared to a high of 66,000 a day .
These are the lowest figures since the end of July .
Note that the latest stats only take us up to September 2 .
We ’ ll have to wait to find out what was happening at testing facilities across England in the last week , when there were widespread reports of people being unable to get a test within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the official explanation ?
On Tuesday Sarah-Jane Marsh , director of testing at NHS Test and Trace , posted a tweet offering her “ heartfelt apologies to anyone who can not get a COVID test at present ” .
She added : “ All of our testing sites have capacity , which is why they don ’ t look overcrowded , its ( sic ) our laboratory processing that is the critical pinch-point .
We are doing all we can to expand quickly.
” This followed quotes from official sources which suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in demand for testing and the government test booking website was prioritising high-risk areas .
On Wednesday the story took a new twist , with the Prime Minister , Boris Johnson , telling the House of Commons : “ Demand is at an unprecedented high , particularly because of demand for asymptomatic patients.
” The Health Secretary , Matt Hancock , elaborated on this , saying : “ In the last couple of weeks we have seen an increase in demand , including an increase in demand for people who are not eligible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t have symptoms .
“ We have seen an increase of about 25 per cent of people who are coming forward that don ’ t have symptoms and aren ’ t eligible… “ We ’ ve got to be firmer , I ’ m afraid , with the rules around eligibility for testing.
” The Department of Health and Social Care have not published the data behind the “ increase of 25 per cent ” quoted by Matt Hancock .
But we do know that government advice on who should get tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests – have been changed in recent days .
Book a test today and the rules are clear .
With a few narrow exceptions , you must have symptoms : Archived versions of the same website from late last month show that more options were available to tick for people who might not have symptoms : A subsequent page in the test booking system asked if you had symptoms , but answering “ no ” did not stop the booking process .
So it was possible until recently to book a coronavirus test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms of the illness .
Can people be blamed for taking advantage of this feature ?
Or did the government fail to make it clear that most people with no symptoms don ’ t need a test ?
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care told FactCheck : “ We have always been clear if you have symptoms of coronavirus , or are asked by a clinician or local authority to get a test , then you should apply for one .
“ While our capacity is the highest it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a significant demand for tests .
That ’ s why we have simplified the booking process and updated guidance to make clear that if you do not have coronavirus symptoms and haven ’ t been asked , then you are not eligible for a test as this may prevent others who need one getting one.
” Both Mr Hancock and Mr Johnson have suggested that the stories of people being told to drive for hours to get a test don ’ t tell the whole picture .
Boris Johnson said on Wednesday that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 miles if someone has to take a journey to get one.
” Mr Hancock was even more precise yesterday , telling MPs : “ The average distance travelled to a test site is 6.4 miles , and 90 per cent of people who book a test travel 22 miles or less.
” As with the 25 per cent increase in asymptomatic patients , the figures that back this up are not publicly available .
We understand that the Department of Health and Social Care may release the underlying statistics on average distance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers have made a number of claims in defence of the Covid-19 testing regime in England , which is widely reported to have been experiencing problems in recent weeks .
Many of the claims are based on information which has not been made public , making them impossible to independently verify .
Matt Hancock has suggested in interviews that members of the public were using the testing system inappropriately .
But until recently , the system allowed people to book a test online even if they were asymptomatic , and the government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make the rules clearer .

Reports of serious problems with the UK’s coronavirus testing system first emerged around a week ago, with stories about people being asked to travel hundreds of miles to get a Covid-19 swab test.
Since then, official figures have since shown a recent fall in the number of people being tested each day in England.
There is clearly something going on. But getting answers from the UK government is proving to be a frustrating business.
Testing figures
Ministers tend to want to want to dwell on the UK’s “capacity” to do tests, rather than the actual numbers of people being tested.
Testing capacity “is based on reports from labs on how many tests they have capacity to carry out each day based on availability of staff and resources”.
This number is high, and going up, but it doesn’t tell us how well the rest of the system is functioning.
The latest figures for NHS Test and Trace in England show that 436,884 people were tested between August 27 and September 2.
That’s about 25,000 fewer people than the previous week, or a fall of nearly 6 per cent.
In other words, an average of 62,400 people were being tested a day in the latest figures, compared to a high of 66,000 a day. These are the lowest figures since the end of July.
Note that the latest stats only take us up to September 2. We’ll have to wait to find out what was happening at testing facilities across England in the last week, when there were widespread reports of people being unable to get a test within a hundred miles of home.
What is the official explanation?
On Tuesday Sarah-Jane Marsh, director of testing at NHS Test and Trace, posted a tweet offering her “heartfelt apologies to anyone who cannot get a COVID test at present”.
She added: “All of our testing sites have capacity, which is why they don’t look overcrowded, its (sic) our laboratory processing that is the critical pinch-point. We are doing all we can to expand quickly.”
This followed quotes from official sources which suggested that there had been a big spike in demand for testing and the government test booking website was prioritising high-risk areas.
On Wednesday the story took a new twist, with the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, telling the House of Commons: “Demand is at an unprecedented high, particularly because of demand for asymptomatic patients.”
The Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, elaborated on this, saying: “In the last couple of weeks we have seen an increase in demand, including an increase in demand for people who are not eligible for tests, and people who don’t have symptoms.
“We have seen an increase of about 25 per cent of people who are coming forward that don’t have symptoms and aren’t eligible…
“We’ve got to be firmer, I’m afraid, with the rules around eligibility for testing.”
Changes to testing website
The Department of Health and Social Care have not published the data behind the “increase of 25 per cent” quoted by Matt Hancock.
But we do know that government advice on who should get tested – and the website used to book tests – have been changed in recent days.
Book a test today and the rules are clear. With a few narrow exceptions, you must have symptoms:
Archived versions of the same website from late last month show that more options were available to tick for people who might not have symptoms:
A subsequent page in the test booking system asked if you had symptoms, but answering “no” did not stop the booking process.
So it was possible until recently to book a coronavirus test online if you didn’t have symptoms of the illness. Can people be blamed for taking advantage of this feature?
Or did the government fail to make it clear that most people with no symptoms don’t need a test?
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care told FactCheck: “We have always been clear if you have symptoms of coronavirus, or are asked by a clinician or local authority to get a test, then you should apply for one.
“While our capacity is the highest it has ever been, we are seeing a significant demand for tests. That’s why we have simplified the booking process and updated guidance to make clear that if you do not have coronavirus symptoms and haven’t been asked, then you are not eligible for a test as this may prevent others who need one getting one.”
Distance travelled
Both Mr Hancock and Mr Johnson have suggested that the stories of people being told to drive for hours to get a test don’t tell the whole picture.
Boris Johnson said on Wednesday that: “The median journey is under 10 miles if someone has to take a journey to get one.”
Mr Hancock was even more precise yesterday, telling MPs: “The average distance travelled to a test site is 6.4 miles, and 90 per cent of people who book a test travel 22 miles or less.”
As with the 25 per cent increase in asymptomatic patients, the figures that back this up are not publicly available.
We understand that the Department of Health and Social Care may release the underlying statistics on average distance travelled in the future.
The verdict
UK government ministers have made a number of claims in defence of the Covid-19 testing regime in England, which is widely reported to have been experiencing problems in recent weeks.
Many of the claims are based on information which has not been made public, making them impossible to independently verify.
Matt Hancock has suggested in interviews that members of the public were using the testing system inappropriately.
But until recently, the system allowed people to book a test online even if they were asymptomatic, and the government has had to change the booking system to make the rules clearer.


channel4uk--2020-09-12--Series 6, Episode 3: Yusef Salaam

Series 6, Episode 3: Yusef Salaam

Yusef Salaam is one of the ‘ Central Park Five ’ who became to be known the ‘ Exonerated Five ’ .
It was case of racial injustice which shocked America three decades ago , when five Black and Hispanic teenagers were wrongfully jailed over the gang rape of a woman in New York ’ s Central Park in 1989 .
But after years behind bars , the ‘ Central Park Five ’ were finally exonerated in 2002 .
Now one of them , Yusef Salaam , has written a book of poetry , in collaboration with the author Ibi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yusef talks to Krishnan about how he remembers the experience that shaped his life , why he believes racism is escapable and why 2020 is a symbolic year .
You can listen to and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts here .
Or on Spotify , Acast , CastBox and other good podcast apps .
So join us as we explore the big ideas changing the way we think , act and live – and how much impact we can really have as individuals .
A filmed version of each interview is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ channel – hit subscribe to keep updated on when a new episode is published .

Yusef Salaam is one of the ‘Central Park Five’ who became to be known the ‘Exonerated Five’.
It was case of racial injustice which shocked America three decades ago, when five Black and Hispanic teenagers were wrongfully jailed over the gang rape of a woman in New York’s Central Park in 1989. But after years behind bars, the ‘Central Park Five’ were finally exonerated in 2002.
Now one of them, Yusef Salaam, has written a novel in verse called ‘Punching The Air’ in collaboration with the author Ibi Zoboi, based on his experiences. Yusef talks to Krishnan about how he remembers the experience that shaped his life, why he believes racism is escapable and why 2020 is a symbolic year.
Listen and subscribe
You can listen to and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts here.
Or on Spotify, Acast, CastBox and other good podcast apps.
So join us as we explore the big ideas changing the way we think, act and live – and how much impact we can really have as individuals.
A filmed version of each interview is available on our Channel 4 News YouTube channel – hit subscribe to keep updated on when a new episode is published.


channel4uk--2020-09-12--Prime Minister warns UK’s integrity could be at stake if MPs don’t back new Brexit bill

Boris Johnson has warned that the integrity of the United Kingdom could be at stake – if MPs don ’ @ @ @ @ @ bill to override parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement .
The European Union has threatened @ @ @ @ @ the Internal Market Bill , which the Government has admitted will breach international law .
@ @ @ @ @ EU could pose a “ danger to the very fabric ” of the UK .

Boris Johnson has warned that the integrity of the United Kingdom could be at stake – if MPs don’t back the controversial new bill to override parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement.
The European Union has threatened to take legal action over the Internal Market Bill, which the Government has admitted will breach international law.
But Mr Johnson claimed the EU could pose a “danger to the very fabric” of the UK.


channel4uk--2020-09-12--‘We need a coordinated and coherent overall policy and we haven’t got it right now’ –  Professor Ste

‘We need a coordinated and coherent overall policy and we haven’t got it right now’ –  Professor Steve Reicher

We are joined by Steve Reicher , professor of social Psychology at the University of St Andrews .
He advises @ @ @ @ @ governments on their response to the coronavirus crisis .

We are joined by Steve Reicher, professor of social Psychology at the University of St Andrews.
He advises both the UK and Scottish governments on their response to the coronavirus crisis.


channel4uk--2020-09-12--Coronavirus: Police warn people not to party this weekend

Treating the weekend before new coronavirus restrictions come into force as an excuse to party would be “ incredibly irresponsible @ @ @ @ @ have warned – ahead of the new rules limiting social gatherings to six people in @ @ @ @ @ .
Across the UK , another 3,497 new coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the @ @ @ @ @ there has been some encouraging news – Oxford University has resumed Covid vaccine trials after @ @ @ @ @ volunteer became ill .

Treating the weekend before new coronavirus restrictions come into force as an excuse to party would be “incredibly irresponsible”, the Police Federation have warned – ahead of the new rules limiting social gatherings to six people in England, Scotland and Wales.
Across the UK, another 3,497 new coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the last 24 hours.
But there has been some encouraging news – Oxford University has resumed Covid vaccine trials after they were paused when a volunteer became ill.


channel4uk--2020-09-12--Dozens missing as wildfires rip through western US

At least 17 people have been killed and dozens more are missing as huge wildfires continue to sweep through the @ @ @ @ @ ’ s emergency management director warned the state was preparing for a “ mass fatality @ @ @ @ @ s governor said it showed climate change was real , and happening .

At least 17 people have been killed and dozens more are missing as huge wildfires continue to sweep through the western United States.
Oregon’s emergency management director warned the state was preparing for a “mass fatality event”.
California’s governor said it showed climate change was real, and happening.


channel4uk--2020-09-13--Director Sally Potter on tackling dementia on the big screen

A new film by one of the country ’ s leading directors : Sally Potter ’ s ‘ The Roads @ @ @ @ @ on the big screen and features academy award winner Javier Bardem , alongside Salma Hayek @ @ @ @ @ ’ s been speaking to Matt Frei about why the storyline is close to home @ @ @ @ @ Covid 19 – and what the future of the arts industry might be .

A new film by one of the country’s leading directors: Sally Potter’s ‘The Roads Not Taken’ tackles dementia on the big screen and features academy award winner Javier Bardem, alongside Salma Hayek and Elle Fanning.
She’s been speaking to Matt Frei about why the storyline is close to home, her own experience of Covid 19 – and what the future of the arts industry might be.


channel4uk--2020-09-13--Lesbos migrant camp fire leaves families sleeping on the streets

The Greek authorities have opened a temporary tent city for some of the thousands of people left homeless when fire @ @ @ @ @ on Lesbos .
Officials insisted that everyone who needed shelter would be rehoused by the @ @ @ @ @ Families have been sleeping out in the open since the blaze – but many refused @ @ @ @ @ , demanding better living conditions – or to be allowed asylum in other EU countries @

The Greek authorities have opened a temporary tent city for some of the thousands of people left homeless when fire destroyed the Moria refugee camp on Lesbos.
Officials insisted that everyone who needed shelter would be rehoused by the end of the week.
Families have been sleeping out in the open since the blaze – but many refused to enter the new facility, demanding better living conditions – or to be allowed asylum in other EU countries.


channel4uk--2020-09-13--Anxiety in care homes over warning of rise in Covid infections

Care home providers are bracing themselves for a possible resurgence of coronavirus cases among vulnerable residents – as the disease @ @ @ @ @ the country .
The latest official figures show that another 3,330 new coronavirus infections in @ @ @ @ @ .
Another 5 deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours – taking the total @ @ @ @ @ And Scotland has also recorded its highest daily number of new cases since the beginning @ @ @

Care home providers are bracing themselves for a possible resurgence of coronavirus cases among vulnerable residents – as the disease continues to spread rapidly across the country.
The latest official figures show that another 3,330 new coronavirus infections in the UK have been confirmed. Another 5 deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours – taking the total to 41, 628.
And Scotland has also recorded its highest daily number of new cases since the beginning of May.


channel4uk--2020-09-13--‘People like John Major and Tony Blair don’t call out their successors lightly’- Alistair Campbell

We are joined by Tony Blair ’ s former chief of communications Alastair Campbell – he was there during key @ @ @ @ @ peace process including the Good Friday Agreement

We are joined by Tony Blair’s former chief of communications Alastair Campbell – he was there during key moments of the Northern Ireland peace process including the Good Friday Agreement


channel4uk--2020-09-13--Blair and Major unite against Brexit plans

The Justice Secretary Robert Buckland has defended the Government ’ s plans to override parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement @ @ @ @ @ glass in emergency provision ” – if it was needed .
Boris Johnson is facing @ @ @ @ @ Conservatives over his controversial Internal Market Bill – while former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and @ @ @ @ @ to reject it , saying it risked putting the Irish peace process , trade negotiations @ @ @ @ @ integrity at peril .

The Justice Secretary Robert Buckland has defended the Government’s plans to override parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement as a “break the glass in emergency provision” – if it was needed.
Boris Johnson is facing a growing rebellion among senior Conservatives over his controversial Internal Market Bill – while former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Sir John Major urged MPs to reject it, saying it risked putting the Irish peace process, trade negotiations and the UK’s integrity at peril.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--Moving tributes paid to victims of Manchester Arena terror attack

Moving tributes have been paid to the victims of the Manchester Arena attack – as the public inquiry heard from @ @ @ @ @ Bereaved relatives will present a series of “ pen portraits ” over the next two @ @ @ @ @ share some personal memories of those who died .
First to speak was the father @ @ @ @ @ who said his son had “ lit up everyone around him ” .

Moving tributes have been paid to the victims of the Manchester Arena attack – as the public inquiry heard from their friends and families.
Bereaved relatives will present a series of “pen portraits” over the next two weeks – allowing them to share some personal memories of those who died.
First to speak was the father of 29-year-old Martyn Hett, who said his son had “lit up everyone around him”.
Our north of England correspondent Clare Fallon reports.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--Boris Johnson accuses EU of negotiating with ‘revolver on table’

Boris Johnson has accused the EU of negotiating with a “ revolver on the table ” as he told MPs @ @ @ @ @ break international law by overriding part of the Withdrawal deal he signed earlier this year @ @ @ @ @ Bill to the Commons , the Prime Minister claimed Brussels was threatening to use trade @ @ @ @ @ “ change the very economic geography of the UK ” .
But every living former @ @ @ @ @ as a number of his own MPs oppose the move – while Labour called it @ @ @ @ @ Our political editor Gary Gibbon was in Westminster .

Boris Johnson has accused the EU of negotiating with a “revolver on the table” as he told MPs why they should vote to break international law by overriding part of the Withdrawal deal he signed earlier this year.
Introducing the Internal Market Bill to the Commons, the Prime Minister claimed Brussels was threatening to use trade rules with Northern Ireland to “change the very economic geography of the UK” .
But every living former Prime Minister, as well as a number of his own MPs oppose the move – while Labour called it “legislative hooliganism”.
Our political editor Gary Gibbon was in Westminster.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--Details of thousands who tested positive mistakenly published online by Public Health Wales

Public Health Wales has revealed that the details of more than 18,000 people who tested positive for coronavirus were mistakenly @ @ @ @ @ affairs correspondent Andy Davies is in Cardiff .

Public Health Wales has revealed that the details of more than 18,000 people who tested positive for coronavirus were mistakenly published online.
Our home affairs correspondent Andy Davies is in Cardiff.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--Sturgeon has ‘very serious concerns’ about test results backlog

As you ’ ve just been hearing Scotland ’ s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says she has “ very serious @ @ @ @ @ of test results and the impact that ’ s already having .
Our Scotland correspondent @ @ @ @ @ .

As you’ve just been hearing Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says she has “very serious concerns” about the backlog of test results and the impact that’s already having.
Our Scotland correspondent Ciaran Jenkins is in Glasgow.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--UK government labs struggling to cope with backlog of almost 200,000 tests

The coronavirus is spreading again across the UK but it ’ s getting harder to be tested – as government labs struggle to cope with a backlog of almost 200,000 tests .
All this at a time when scientists are warning that regular mass testing is crucial to avoid a second peak of the disease .
Downing Street has insisted it is “ working hard ” to increase testing capacity , while officials have also urged people to stick to the new rules restricting social gatherings which came into force today .
In England , up to six people from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s indoors or outdoors .
There are exclusions for people gathering in the workplace , for education , organised sport and events such as weddings and funerals .
In Scotland , up to six people from two households can meet , either indoors or outdoors .
But this does not include children under 12 .
In Wales , up to 30 people can gather outdoors .
But indoors , the limit is six people from an ‘ extended household ’ .
Children under 11 are not included .
There ’ s no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 15 people can meet outdoors .
And indoors up to six people can meet from two households .
And in various parts of the UK with higher rates of infection there are of course tighter restrictions .

The coronavirus is spreading again across the UK but it’s getting harder to be tested – as government labs struggle to cope with a backlog of almost 200,000 tests.
All this at a time when scientists are warning that regular mass testing is crucial to avoid a second peak of the disease.
Downing Street has insisted it is “working hard” to increase testing capacity, while officials have also urged people to stick to the new rules restricting social gatherings which came into force today.
In England, up to six people from multiple households can meet up – that’s indoors or outdoors.
There are exclusions for people gathering in the workplace, for education, organised sport and events such as weddings and funerals.
In Scotland, up to six people from two households can meet, either indoors or outdoors. But this does not include children under 12.
In Wales, up to 30 people can gather outdoors. But indoors, the limit is six people from an ‘extended household’. Children under 11 are not included.
There’s no change in Northern Ireland, where up to 15 people can meet outdoors. And indoors up to six people can meet from two households.
And in various parts of the UK with higher rates of infection there are of course tighter restrictions.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--‘Nature in absolute freefall at moment’ – RSPB’s Beccy Speight

We were joined at the Frampton Marsh reserve by Beccy Speight , who ’ s chief executive of the Royal @ @ @ @ @ Birds – which owns this site – and by the environmental economist Dr Matthew Agarwala @ @ @ @ @ Cambridge .

We were joined at the Frampton Marsh reserve by Beccy Speight, who’s chief executive of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds – which owns this site – and by the environmental economist Dr Matthew Agarwala, from the University of Cambridge.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--‘This pandemic has its roots in environmental abuses’ – Natural England chair Tony Juniper

Today , the government said these issues are “ among the great challenges of our time ” which it is @ @ @ @ @ .
They did not , however , make a minister available to speak about such @ @ @ @ @ programme .
But the government did offer up Tony Juniper , who is the chair @ @ @ @ @ is the official body that works for the conservation and restoration of the natural environment @ @ @ @ @ by asking him if he would have been more critical of the government had he @ @ @ @ @ WWF ?

Today, the government said these issues are “among the great challenges of our time” which it is “committed to addressing”.
They did not, however, make a minister available to speak about such issues on tonight’s programme.
But the government did offer up Tony Juniper, who is the chair of Natural England, which is the official body that works for the conservation and restoration of the natural environment in England.
We began by asking him if he would have been more critical of the government had he still been working at the WWF?


channel4uk--2020-09-14--Why global targets to save the natural world will be missed

Environmental catastrophe is not just someone else ’ s problem , it is happening right here in Britain too .
@ @ @ @ @ will report on global attempts to save the natural world , but as David Attenborough @ @ @ @ @ outlook is looking bleak .
Our chief correspondent Alex Thomson has this report .

Environmental catastrophe is not just someone else’s problem, it is happening right here in Britain too.
Tomorrow, the United Nations will report on global attempts to save the natural world, but as David Attenborough highlighted last night – the outlook is looking bleak.
Our chief correspondent Alex Thomson has this report.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--Biden says election victory of ‘climate denier’ Trump would lead to more frequent wildfires

Up and down America ’ s Western states nearly 5 million acres of forest has been destroyed .
President Donald @ @ @ @ @ both on the ground – another dividing line between climate-change denying Trump and his Democratic @ @ @ @ @ Siobhan Kennedy has the latest .

Up and down America’s Western states nearly 5 million acres of forest has been destroyed.
President Donald Trump and Joe Biden are both on the ground – another dividing line between climate-change denying Trump and his Democratic rival.
Our Washington Correspondent Siobhan Kennedy has the latest.


channel4uk--2020-09-15--FactCheck: conspiracy theory about DNA from Covid tests makes no sense

There ’ s a new conspiracy theory about the coronavirus which is being spread widely online .
Tweets like this are typical : Collectively , posts alleging the government is secretly using the Covid-19 testing programme to collect DNA samples from its citizens have now been shared thousands of times on social media .
Like most of the other coronavirus conspiracies , it doesn ’ t have any basis in fact .
The Home Office has just passed a statutory instrument called The Coronavirus ( Retention of Fingerprints and DNA Profiles in the Interests of National Security ) ( No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has nothing to do with coronavirus testing .
A Home Office spokesman told us : “ Owing to the ongoing impact of coronavirus , the Government has further extended the retention deadlines for biometrics data being retained by Counter Terrorism Policing for national security .
The extension is supported by the Biometrics Commissioner.
” The new legislation gives police more time to hold on to certain suspects ’ fingerprints and DNA profiles , which they would otherwise have had to process and potentially destroy under existing law .
This is because the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Act in 2012 – tightening the rules and introducing time limits on how long police can store biometric data .
This statement by the Office of the Biometrics Commissioner – the independent watchdog which reviews how the police use DNA and fingerprints – makes two things absolutely clear about last week ’ s change in the law .
First , it wasn ’ t driven by government ministers .
Counter-terrorist police asked for the extension , because the Covid-19 epidemic has left them overstretched .
“ These specialist police teams and those providing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of Covid-19 , both directly because of infections and as a result of government measures taken to control the spread of the virus .
Those involved in this work require specialist training and security clearance and therefore could not be replaced easily or quickly increased in number.
” Second , the DNA and fingerprints we are talking about were taken by police investigating serious crimes : terrorism and offences relating to national security .
That is actually spelled out in the new legislation , if you read down far enough : it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under various pieces of counter-terrorism law or the Police and Criminal Evidence Act .
At no point in the new regulations is there any mention of coronavirus testing .
There is simply no connection between this change in the law – which is all about relieving pressure on police investigating terrorism – and the NHS Test and Trace programme .
What happens when you get tested ?
Of course staff at testing stations don ’ t take people ’ s fingerprints , and any one of the millions of who have had tests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about DNA ?
Well , most people who are tested for Covid get a PCR or “ swab ” test .
This usually means that a long cotton bud is used to take a sample from the nose and the back of the throat .
The sample is then tested in a lab to see if genetic material , called RNA , from the virus is present .
There is no evidence that this test is ever used to identify an individual person ’ s DNA .
While the assays used in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , this is only to be sure the test has worked and “ won ’ t give DNA fingerprint information in the way required for forensic examinations ” , according to Dr Tania Nolan , an internationally recognized molecular biologist and expert on PCR testing .
No one ’ s fingerprints or DNA are recorded when they get a Covid test , and the statutory instrument passed last week has nothing to do with testing .
People promoting this theory online are actually linking to this new law , as though it proves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a misunderstanding of what the law says .
Imagine how many staff working across testing sites and laboratories across the country , in government the police and the NHS , would have to be in on this secret plan to misuse the testing system – without giving it away .
We would suggest that this theory doesn ’ t pass the common sense test , and we would encourage people to stop spreading inaccurate information that could undermine trust in the Covid testing system .

There’s a new conspiracy theory about the coronavirus which is being spread widely online.
Tweets like this are typical:
Collectively, posts alleging the government is secretly using the Covid-19 testing programme to collect DNA samples from its citizens have now been shared thousands of times on social media.
Like most of the other coronavirus conspiracies, it doesn’t have any basis in fact.
The analysis
The Home Office has just passed a statutory instrument called The Coronavirus (Retention of Fingerprints and DNA Profiles in the Interests of National Security) (No. 2) Regulations 2020 – but it has nothing to do with coronavirus testing.
A Home Office spokesman told us: “Owing to the ongoing impact of coronavirus, the Government has further extended the retention deadlines for biometrics data being retained by Counter Terrorism Policing for national security. The extension is supported by the Biometrics Commissioner.”
The new legislation gives police more time to hold on to certain suspects’ fingerprints and DNA profiles, which they would otherwise have had to process and potentially destroy under existing law.
This is because the Conservative-led coalition passed the Protection of Freedoms Act in 2012 – tightening the rules and introducing time limits on how long police can store biometric data.
This statement by the Office of the Biometrics Commissioner – the independent watchdog which reviews how the police use DNA and fingerprints – makes two things absolutely clear about last week’s change in the law.
First, it wasn’t driven by government ministers. Counter-terrorist police asked for the extension, because the Covid-19 epidemic has left them overstretched.
“These specialist police teams and those providing information to them have had significant disruption because of Covid-19, both directly because of infections and as a result of government measures taken to control the spread of the virus. Those involved in this work require specialist training and security clearance and therefore could not be replaced easily or quickly increased in number.”
Second, the DNA and fingerprints we are talking about were taken by police investigating serious crimes: terrorism and offences relating to national security.
That is actually spelled out in the new legislation, if you read down far enough: it only applies to fingerprints and DNA collected under various pieces of counter-terrorism law or the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.
At no point in the new regulations is there any mention of coronavirus testing.
There is simply no connection between this change in the law – which is all about relieving pressure on police investigating terrorism – and the NHS Test and Trace programme.
What happens when you get tested?
Of course staff at testing stations don’t take people’s fingerprints, and any one of the millions of who have had tests carried out will confirm this. What about DNA?
Well, most people who are tested for Covid get a PCR or “swab” test. This usually means that a long cotton bud is used to take a sample from the nose and the back of the throat.
The sample is then tested in a lab to see if genetic material, called RNA, from the virus is present. There is no evidence that this test is ever used to identify an individual person’s DNA.
While the assays used in the test can also detect human genetic material, this is only to be sure the test has worked and “won’t give DNA fingerprint information in the way required for forensic examinations”, according to Dr Tania Nolan, an internationally recognized molecular biologist and expert on PCR testing.
FactCheck verdict
No one’s fingerprints or DNA are recorded when they get a Covid test, and the statutory instrument passed last week has nothing to do with testing.
People promoting this theory online are actually linking to this new law, as though it proves them right. But this is based on a misunderstanding of what the law says.
Imagine how many staff working across testing sites and laboratories across the country, in government the police and the NHS, would have to be in on this secret plan to misuse the testing system – without giving it away.
We would suggest that this theory doesn’t pass the common sense test, and we would encourage people to stop spreading inaccurate information that could undermine trust in the Covid testing system.


channel4uk--2020-09-14--Greece and Turkey accuse each other of breaking the international law of the sea

Fossil fuels might be going out of fashion , but a dispute over the right to drill for natural gas @ @ @ @ @ provoked fears that two NATO allies could come to blows .
Greece has welcomed the @ @ @ @ @ ship from the area – but at the weekend , the Greeks announced that they @ @ @ @ @ their armed forces .
“ If you want peace , you must always be better @ @ @ @ @ the Greek president explained .
She was speaking during a visit to a tiny Greek @ @ @ @ @ coast .
Our Foreign Affairs correspondent Jonathan Rugman was with her – and sent this @ @

Fossil fuels might be going out of fashion, but a dispute over the right to drill for natural gas in the eastern Mediterranean has provoked fears that two NATO allies could come to blows.
Greece has welcomed the departure of a Turkish research ship from the area – but at the weekend, the Greeks announced that they were adding 15,000 troops to their armed forces.
“If you want peace, you must always be better prepared for war”, the Greek president explained.
She was speaking during a visit to a tiny Greek island just off the Turkish coast.
Our Foreign Affairs correspondent Jonathan Rugman was with her – and sent this report.


channel4uk--2020-09-17--Care home provider under ‘pressure’ to accept hospital patients with Covid

When the full extent of deaths from coronavirus in care homes was revealed at the height of the pandemic , @ @ @ @ @ claimed there had been a “ protective ring ” placed around them .
Tonight , @ @ @ @ @ cases are spreading to care homes , this programme can reveal that hospitals are again @ @ @ @ @ people with the virus into them .
One leading specialist has told us it could @ @ @ @ @ England this winter , despite the huge death toll the country has already experienced .
@ @ @ @ @ leaked contract from Greater Manchester ’ s Trafford Council – asking care homes to accept @ @ @ @ @ Covid positive – as our correspondent Ciaran Jenkins now reports .

When the full extent of deaths from coronavirus in care homes was revealed at the height of the pandemic, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock claimed there had been a “protective ring” placed around them.
Tonight, amid worrying signs that coronavirus cases are spreading to care homes, this programme can reveal that hospitals are again getting ready to rapidly discharge people with the virus into them.
One leading specialist has told us it could become “commonplace” in England this winter, despite the huge death toll the country has already experienced.
And we have seen a leaked contract from Greater Manchester’s Trafford Council – asking care homes to accept patients from hospitals who are Covid positive – as our correspondent Ciaran Jenkins now reports.


channel4uk--2020-09-17--Government criteria for care home discharge ‘not particularly well thought through’ – Prof Martin Ve

Government criteria for care home discharge ‘not particularly well thought through’ – Prof Martin Vernon

Joining us now from north London is Helen Wildbore , who ’ s head of the Relatives & Residents association @ @ @ @ @ people needing care and their families , and Consultant Geriatrician Prof Martin Vernon , in @ @ @ @ @ NHS England National Clinical Director for Older People from 2016 until 2019 .

Joining us now from north London is Helen Wildbore, who’s head of the Relatives & Residents association – a charity for older people needing care and their families, and Consultant Geriatrician Prof Martin Vernon, in Manchester – who was the NHS England National Clinical Director for Older People from 2016 until 2019.


channel4uk--2020-09-17--‘I don’t pin it all on Donald Trump, we have to participate in our way of life, we have to show up’

‘I don’t pin it all on Donald Trump, we have to participate in our way of life, we have to show up’ – Wynton Marsalis on the US election

He ’ s one of the world ’ s most acclaimed jazz musicians , winning several Grammy awards as well @ @ @ @ @ Wynton Marsalis has rekindled interest in jazz throughout the world – attracting a new generation @ @ @ @ @ launches a new album , The Ever Fonky Lowdown , we spoke to him from @ @ @

He’s one of the world’s most acclaimed jazz musicians, winning several Grammy awards as well as a Pulitzer prize.
Wynton Marsalis has rekindled interest in jazz throughout the world – attracting a new generation of talent.
As he launches a new album, The Ever Fonky Lowdown, we spoke to him from New York.


channel4uk--2020-09-17--‘We are not pursuing any kind of imperialistic aims, we are protecting our rights’ – Turkey’s defenc

‘We are not pursuing any kind of imperialistic aims, we are protecting our rights’ – Turkey’s defence minister on dispute with Greece

Turkey ’ s Defence minister has accused the French President of “ trying to take on the role of Napoleon @ @ @ @ @ Greece and Turkey against each other in the eastern Mediterranean .
Last month , Turkey @ @ @ @ @ prompting Greece and France to propose possible sanctions at an EU summit next week .
@ @ @ @ @ minister has told this programme that its energy research mission would continue – as our @ @ @ @ @ reports .

Turkey’s Defence minister has accused the French President of “trying to take on the role of Napoleon” during the crisis pitting Greece and Turkey against each other in the eastern Mediterranean.
Last month, Turkey began exploring for undersea energy prompting Greece and France to propose possible sanctions at an EU summit next week.
But Turkey’s defence minister has told this programme that its energy research mission would continue – as our foreign affairs correspondent Jonathan Rugman reports.


channel4uk--2020-09-17--Home Office ‘disappointed’ after judge halts flight to deport asylum seekers

The Home Office say they are “ bitterly disappointed ” by a judge ’ s decision to stop a whole @ @ @ @ @ being deported to Spain , after lawyers argued they would face homelessness and destitution there @ @ @ @ @ three men from Syria and Yemen who had travelled to the UK across the channel @ @ @ @ @ O ’ Brien reports .

The Home Office say they are “bitterly disappointed” by a judge’s decision to stop a whole flight of asylum seekers from being deported to Spain, after lawyers argued they would face homelessness and destitution there.
The case centred on three men from Syria and Yemen who had travelled to the UK across the channel on small boats. Paraic O’Brien reports.


channel4uk--2020-09-17--Joe Biden says peace in Northern Ireland should not become a ‘casualty of Brexit’

Downing Street has dismissed comments by the US Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden – who warned in a tweet that @ @ @ @ @ ’ t be allowed to “ become a casualty of Brexit ” .
Mr Biden @ @ @ @ @ four US Congressmen wrote a joint letter expressing their “ grave concern ” about Boris @ @ @ @ @ override parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement .
One of the Congressmen who signed that @ @ @ @ @ Bill Keating , who represents Massachusetts 9th district for the Democrats , and he speaks @ @ @ @ @

Downing Street has dismissed comments by the US Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden – who warned in a tweet that the Good Friday agreement shouldn’t be allowed to “become a casualty of Brexit”.
Mr Biden’s intervention came after four US Congressmen wrote a joint letter expressing their “grave concern” about Boris Johnson’s plans to override parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement.
One of the Congressmen who signed that letter to Boris Johnson is Bill Keating, who represents Massachusetts 9th district for the Democrats, and he speaks to Channel 4 News.