channel4uk--2020-12-09--Windrush compensation scheme architect voices frustration at implementation as victims say scheme is

Windrush compensation scheme architect voices frustration at implementation as victims say scheme is too complicated

The architect of the Windrush compensation scheme has voiced his frustration at how some aspects of it are being implemented @ @ @ @ @ ignored key aspects of his advice .
But Martin Forde QC defended the scheme against @ @ @ @ @ was giving evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee ’ s inquiry into the scheme @ @ @ @ @ it for being too complicated , too slow and not generous enough .

The architect of the Windrush compensation scheme has voiced his frustration at how some aspects of it are being implemented – saying the Home Office ignored key aspects of his advice. But Martin Forde QC defended the scheme against accusations of delays.
He was giving evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee’s inquiry into the scheme, after many victims criticised it for being too complicated, too slow and not generous enough.


channel4uk--2020-12-09--NHS told not to give vaccine to people with history of ‘significant’ allergic reactions

Two NHS workers have developed an allergic reaction to the coronavirus vaccine which was rolled out across the UK yesterday @ @ @ @ @ issued a warning that those with severe allergies should not get it – a move @ @ @ @ @ director said was common with new vaccines .
More than 1,800 people were given the @ @ @ @ @ the day yesterday , in Wales and Northern Ireland.Figures are not yet available for the @ @ @ @ @ There were 16 , 578 new cases of coronavirus reported in the last 24 hours @ @ @ @ @ died , bringing the total number of people who have died from Covid-19 is now @ @

Two NHS workers have developed an allergic reaction to the coronavirus vaccine which was rolled out across the UK yesterday.
The regulator has now issued a warning that those with severe allergies should not get it – a move NHS England’s medical director said was common with new vaccines.
More than 1,800 people were given the vaccine by the end of the day yesterday, in Wales and Northern Ireland.Figures are not yet available for the rest of the country.
There were 16, 578 new cases of coronavirus reported in the last 24 hours. And 533 people have died, bringing the total number of people who have died from Covid-19 is now 62,566.


channel4uk--2020-12-09--Brexit: ‘Grace period’ for supermarket food checks between GB and NI

New checks on goods travelling between Britain and Northern Ireland will be paused to ensure food supplies aren ’ t @ @ @ @ @ a no-deal Brexit .
The “ grace period ” is expected to be three months @ @ @ @ @ to adapt to changes required by the EU .

New checks on goods travelling between Britain and Northern Ireland will be paused to ensure food supplies aren’t disrupted if there’s a no-deal Brexit.
The “grace period” is expected to be three months and will allow supermarkets time to adapt to changes required by the EU.


channel4uk--2020-12-09--‘It’s not right to say that we must be more flexible than you… there must be compromise on both side

‘It’s not right to say that we must be more flexible than you… there must be compromise on both sides’ – MEP Kris Peeters

We spoke to Kris Peeters , who was deputy prime minister of Belgium until last year .
He ’ s @ @ @ @ @ on the European Parliament ’ s UK Coordination Group .

We spoke to Kris Peeters, who was deputy prime minister of Belgium until last year. He’s now an MEP and sits on the European Parliament’s UK Coordination Group.


channel4uk--2020-12-09--UK prime minister in Brussels for post-Brexit deal talks with EU chief

The term “ make or break talks ” might be overused when it comes to Brexit .
But tonight ’ @ @ @ @ @ the prime minister and the European Commission president may well be the decider for whether @ @ @ @ @ with or without a deal .
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen are meeting @ @ @ @ @ .

The term “make or break talks” might be overused when it comes to Brexit. But tonight’s dinner in Brussels with the prime minister and the European Commission president may well be the decider for whether the UK leaves the EU with or without a deal.
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen are meeting after negotiations reached an impasse.


channel4uk--2020-12-09--Should BAME groups be fast-tracked for the vaccine?

After a summer where concerns were raised over the numbers of BAME people dying in the community , should they @ @ @ @ @ ?
This week the first vaccinations for COVID-19 began in the UK , after months @ @ @ @ @ But after a summer where concerns were raised over the numbers of BAME people dying @ @ @ @ @ they be offered a vaccine early ?
Our Home Affairs Correspondent , Darshna Soni , @ @ @ @ @ the stories of Black and brown families affected by the virus and reflects on whether @ @ @ @ @ protect people of colour during the pandemic .
You can listen to , download and @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts here .
Also available on Google Podcasts , Spotify , Acast , CastBox @ @ @ @ @ .
The RSS feed is here .

After a summer where concerns were raised over the numbers of BAME people dying in the community, should they be offered a vaccine early?
This week the first vaccinations for COVID-19 began in the UK, after months of despair and restrictions. But after a summer where concerns were raised over the numbers of BAME people dying in the community, should they be offered a vaccine early?
Our Home Affairs Correspondent, Darshna Soni, has spent the year telling the stories of Black and brown families affected by the virus and reflects on whether enough is being done to protect people of colour during the pandemic.
Clips from: BBC, ITV, CSPAN
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
You can listen to, download and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts here.
Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify, Acast, CastBox and other good podcast apps.
The RSS feed is here.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--More than 3,000 people die with Covid in America’s deadliest day

America had its deadliest day yesterday with more than 3,000 people dying from coronavirus .
Hospitals across the country are @ @ @ @ @ capacity .
Numbers are surging with the travel for Thanksgiving holiday beginning to show in @ @ @ @ @ now suggest 300,000 Americans will have died by January .
Kate Fisher reports from Baltimore @ @ @ @ @ is being hit the hardest .

America had its deadliest day yesterday with more than 3,000 people dying from coronavirus.
Hospitals across the country are also operating near or above capacity.
Numbers are surging with the travel for Thanksgiving holiday beginning to show in the death figures.
Predictions now suggest 300,000 Americans will have died by January.
Kate Fisher reports from Baltimore, where the Black community is being hit the hardest.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--‘It would be a big mistake to think these are just problems at one trust’ – former Health Secretary

‘It would be a big mistake to think these are just problems at one trust’ – former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt

Former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the findings were “ utterly shocking ” .
He joined us from central London @

Former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the findings were “utterly shocking”.
He joined us from central London.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--Migrants making treacherous journey to Canary Islands – on small fishing boats

Thousands of people from North and West Africa are travelling to the Canary Islands by sea on small fishing boats @ @ @ @ @ the economic hardship brought on by the pandemic .
Almost 20,000 have arrived on the @ @ @ @ @ 12-fold increase from 2019 .
We have been speaking to some of those who have @ @ @

Thousands of people from North and West Africa are travelling to the Canary Islands by sea on small fishing boats.
It’s often a treacherous and deadly crossing.
Many are motivated by the economic hardship brought on by the pandemic.
Almost 20,000 have arrived on the islands this year – a 12-fold increase from 2019.
We have been speaking to some of those who have made it.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--Leisure group head says UK hospitality sector being penalised by unfair Covid rules

The prospect of the failure of trade talks with the EU has added to the concerns of businesses across the @ @ @ @ @ inflicted on the economy by the Covid pandemic were starkly revealed today .
Barely any @ @ @ @ @ October .
The head of Britain ’ s largest leisure group has told this programme @ @ @ @ @ is being penalised by unfair and inconsistent rules .

The prospect of the failure of trade talks with the EU has added to the concerns of businesses across the UK, as the woes inflicted on the economy by the Covid pandemic were starkly revealed today.
Barely any economic growth was recorded in October.
The head of Britain’s largest leisure group has told this programme that now the hospitality sector is being penalised by unfair and inconsistent rules.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson to step aside following arrest

The mayor of Liverpool has said he will step aside for a time after he was arrested over allegations of @ @ @ @ @ Joe Anderson , who is currently on bail , will take unpaid leave .
In @ @ @ @ @ would step away from his role “ until the police make clear their intentions with @ @ @ @

The mayor of Liverpool has said he will step aside for a time after he was arrested over allegations of bribery and witness intimidation.
Joe Anderson, who is currently on bail, will take unpaid leave.
In a statement he said he would step away from his role “until the police make clear their intentions with the investigation”.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--Brexit: ‘Strong possibility’ that UK will not agree trade deal with EU

Boris Johnson has warned that no-deal Brexit is now a “ strong possibility ” .
His dinner last night with @ @ @ @ @ der Leyen failed to overcome differences on fisheries and how closely Britain should follow EU @ @ @ @ @ Both sides are now working on emergency plans to keep planes flying and freight moving @ @ @ @ @ free trade agreement when the transition ends in three weeks ’ time .
The negotiators @ @ @ @ @ until Sunday to find a breakthrough .

Boris Johnson has warned that no-deal Brexit is now a “strong possibility”.
His dinner last night with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen failed to overcome differences on fisheries and how closely Britain should follow EU rules in the future.
Both sides are now working on emergency plans to keep planes flying and freight moving if there’s no free trade agreement when the transition ends in three weeks’ time.
The negotiators have been told they have until Sunday to find a breakthrough.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--Welsh secondary schools and colleges to move online to curb Covid transmission

Secondary schools and colleges in Wales will move to online learning from Monday .
The education minister made the decision @ @ @ @ @ national effort to reduce transmission of coronavirus ” .
At the same time , London @ @ @ @ @ of Covid-19 infections in England and that ’ s raising the prospect of the city @ @ @ @ @ restrictions .
In today ’ s other developments , there were 20,964 new cases recorded @ @ @ @ @ and 516 people died , meaning the total number of UK deaths from Covid-19 now @ @ @ @ @ .

Secondary schools and colleges in Wales will move to online learning from Monday.
The education minister made the decision as part of a “national effort to reduce transmission of coronavirus”.
At the same time, London now has the highest rate of Covid-19 infections in England and that’s raising the prospect of the city being put under Tier 3 restrictions.
In today’s other developments, there were 20,964 new cases recorded in the last 24 hours and 516 people died, meaning the total number of UK deaths from Covid-19 now stands at 63, 082.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--Mother speaks out over hospital scandal that saw death of her newborn baby

Rhiannon Davies has fought a long battle for an explanation over the death of her baby girl , Kate .
@ @ @ @ @ the report comes to giving her the answers she has been seeking .

Rhiannon Davies has fought a long battle for an explanation over the death of her baby girl, Kate.
We asked her how close the report comes to giving her the answers she has been seeking.


channel4uk--2020-12-10--Maternity scandal: the battle for justice

On March 1 , 2009 Kate Stanton-Davies died .
She had lived for just six hours .
Kate was born at a midwife-led unit in Ludlow , part of Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust .
More than three years after her death , I met her parents , Rhiannon Davies and Richard Stanton .
An inquest , which they had at first been denied , had finally returned its verdict .
“ Seven men and two women sat there and listened to eight days of harrowing detail of Kate ’ s last two weeks of life and the six hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came to the unanimous decision that there were drastic errors at all levels that could have been avoided , should have been avoided , and contributed to the death of Kate , ” Richard Stanton told Channel 4 News .
These are the facts : in the weeks before the birth , Rhiannon had complained about a lack of movement .
Despite repeated check-ups and tests she was not classified as high risk and sent to the hospital , rather than the midwife-led centre .
When Kate was born , she was floppy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which is a sign of respiratory distress .
But she was left in a cold cot and not checked on .
An ambulance was eventually called but wouldn ’ t take the parents .
Eventually Kate was taken by air ambulance to Heartlands hospital in Birmingham .
Richard and Rhiannon had to make their own way , but Rhiannon became ill and had to be taken to another hospital .
Richard arrived just in time to hold their baby as she died .
I am not ashamed to say that both I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to their story .
A death of a baby – their first born – is heart-breaking enough .
But the way they were treated subsequently , and the battles they have had to fight to prove their Kate should have lived , is beyond description in its inhumanity and cruelty .
Their first battle , indeed , was having to threaten a judicial review if they were not allowed the inquest .
That over , however , and the confirmation she shouldn ’ t have died , you would have thought they could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Instead , they were denied an acknowledgement from the NHS trust – and from those involved that they held responsibility for what went wrong .
There is not enough room now to detail all the fights that have followed – not just with the trust , though that deserves a whole chapter on its own , but also with the health ombudsman ’ s office , the Nursing and Midwifery Council , the CQC , the General Medical Council , NHS England… it goes on and on .
But , more than 11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care at the Shrewsbury trust has published its initial findings and it makes for very difficult reading .
Led by former midwife , Donna Ockenden , it started with Kate Stanton-Davies and Pippa Griffiths , who died in 2016 , and 21 other families .
Today , the review reports on 250 cases .
But they have already spoken to 800 families , and altogether the number of baby and mother deaths and injuries they have been asked to examine has reached 1,862 .
It will be the largest maternity review ever in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scandal of proportions that defy belief .
“ Kate ’ s death in 2009 and Pippa ’ s death in 2016 were avoidable .
The parent ’ s unrelenting commitment to ensuring their daughters ’ lives were not lost in vain continues to be remarkable , ” Donna Ockenden writes .
“ In a void described by the families as ‘ incomprehensible pain ’ , they undertook their own investigations to highlight the deaths of their newborn daughters , and to insist upon meaningful change in maternity services that could save other lives.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Richard so much .
Their fight did not stop other deaths , of babies and mothers , of babies being left disabled for life , of families destroyed , of psychological harm that can never be undone .
Now , the trust and all maternity units in England have been told they must improve .
The Ockenden review states : “ With a focus on safety , the 27 local actions for learning and seven immediate and essential actions in this report are ‘ must dos ’ that need to be implemented @ @ @ @ @

On March 1, 2009 Kate Stanton-Davies died. She had lived for just six hours.
Kate was born at a midwife-led unit in Ludlow, part of Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust.
More than three years after her death, I met her parents, Rhiannon Davies and Richard Stanton. An inquest, which they had at first been denied, had finally returned its verdict.
“Seven men and two women sat there and listened to eight days of harrowing detail of Kate’s last two weeks of life and the six hours that she was with us – and came to the unanimous decision that there were drastic errors at all levels that could have been avoided, should have been avoided, and contributed to the death of Kate,” Richard Stanton told Channel 4 News.
These are the facts: in the weeks before the birth, Rhiannon had complained about a lack of movement. Despite repeated check-ups and tests she was not classified as high risk and sent to the hospital, rather than the midwife-led centre. When Kate was born, she was floppy and pale. She began to grunt, which is a sign of respiratory distress. But she was left in a cold cot and not checked on.
An ambulance was eventually called but wouldn’t take the parents. Eventually Kate was taken by air ambulance to Heartlands hospital in Birmingham. Richard and Rhiannon had to make their own way, but Rhiannon became ill and had to be taken to another hospital. Richard arrived just in time to hold their baby as she died.
I am not ashamed to say that both I and the cameraman wept as we listened to their story. A death of a baby – their first born – is heart-breaking enough. But the way they were treated subsequently, and the battles they have had to fight to prove their Kate should have lived, is beyond description in its inhumanity and cruelty.
Their first battle, indeed, was having to threaten a judicial review if they were not allowed the inquest. That over, however, and the confirmation she shouldn’t have died, you would have thought they could have begun the process of mourning. Instead, they were denied an acknowledgement from the NHS trust – and from those involved that they held responsibility for what went wrong.
There is not enough room now to detail all the fights that have followed – not just with the trust, though that deserves a whole chapter on its own, but also with the health ombudsman’s office, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, the CQC, the General Medical Council, NHS England… it goes on and on.
But, more than 11 years later, a review into maternity care at the Shrewsbury trust has published its initial findings and it makes for very difficult reading.
Led by former midwife, Donna Ockenden, it started with Kate Stanton-Davies and Pippa Griffiths, who died in 2016, and 21 other families.
Today, the review reports on 250 cases. But they have already spoken to 800 families, and altogether the number of baby and mother deaths and injuries they have been asked to examine has reached 1,862.
It will be the largest maternity review ever in the history of the NHS. A scandal of proportions that defy belief.
“Kate’s death in 2009 and Pippa’s death in 2016 were avoidable. The parent’s unrelenting commitment to ensuring their daughters’ lives were not lost in vain continues to be remarkable,” Donna Ockenden writes. “In a void described by the families as ‘incomprehensible pain’, they undertook their own investigations to highlight the deaths of their newborn daughters, and to insist upon meaningful change in maternity services that could save other lives.”
And that is what hurts Rhiannon and Richard so much. Their fight did not stop other deaths, of babies and mothers, of babies being left disabled for life, of families destroyed, of psychological harm that can never be undone.
Now, the trust and all maternity units in England have been told they must improve. The Ockenden review states: “With a focus on safety, the 27 local actions for learning and seven immediate and essential actions in this report are ‘must dos’ that need to be implemented now at pace.”
Photo credit: Richard Stanton


channel4uk--2020-12-11--FactCheck: shaky evidence for Starmer’s attack on Johnson Brexit promise

With trade talks between the UK and EU in their final hours , Brexit was top of the agenda at this week ’ s Prime Minister ’ s Questions .
The Labour leader Keir Starmer was critical of Boris Johnson ’ s handling of the issue , telling MPs : But the evidence Labour offered to support the claim doesn ’ t add up .
Here ’ s why .
The Conservatives made much of their “ oven-ready ” deal before the last election .
But in recent days , there ’ s been some debate over whether “ oven-ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which set the terms of our immediate departure on 31 January this year – or to the long-term free trade deal that ’ s still being thrashed out .
Labour tell us that this is the basis of Sir Keir ’ s claim : that the Conservatives muddled the two deals in the minds of the public before the election , wrongly giving the impression that the free trade deal was in the bag .
They gave FactCheck three examples to support the claim .
But we ’ re not convinced that any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson ’ s comments on a pre-election visit to Nissan ’ s Sunderland factory : “ the thing about the deal we ’ ve got ready to go is it does protect the supply chains , it keeps them intact , it makes sure that we have complete equivalence when it comes to our standards , our industrial requirements and all the rest of it… ” Labour say these benefits can only be achieved with a free trade deal , and therefore Mr Johnson was saying that he had a free trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Mr Johnson ’ s comments here would also apply to the Withdrawal Agreement , which preserves – albeit temporarily – the regulations the UK adopted from the EU during its membership for the purposes of the transition period .
From a business perspective , nothing would change on the day after Brexit .
He adds “ so as we come out , it ’ s all protected ” , again suggesting it ’ s the Withdrawal Agreement he has in mind .
And the Prime Minister spells this out a few minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal , it gets us out on January 31 [ … ] but what it also does is it keeps us in a state of grace , a state of equivalence with our European Union friends and partners , so the zero tariff , zero quota arrangements that we have , the ‘ just in time ’ supply chains , they remain absolutely there , perfect and intact ” .
To be fair to Labour , we think Mr Johnson could have been clearer at this event that once the Withdrawal Agreement was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of negotiations to secure a free trade deal – that the “ state of grace ” was only temporary .
But we don ’ t think that this is smoking-gun proof that the Conservatives said they had a free trade deal sewn up before the last election , as Sir Keir claimed .
The ‘ break from talking about Brexit ’ Labour told us that on 13 December 2019 , Mr Johnson “ promised ” a “ permanent break from talking about Brexit ” , which they say “ is not possible without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that quote looks rather different in context .
Standing outside Downing Street after the election result , the Prime Minister said : “ I know that after five weeks frankly of electioneering this country deserves a break from wrangling , a break from politics , and a permanent break from talking about Brexit ” .
In the same speech , he alluded to the negotiations ahead : “ now is the moment – precisely as we leave the EU – to let those natural feelings find renewed expression , in building a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great projects for next year , and as we work together with the EU [ … ] redoubling our trading relationship ” .
Labour told us that on 9 December 2019 , Rishi Sunak said in a BBC Radio 4 Today interview : “ We won ’ t need to plan for no deal , because we have a deal ” .
This is what Sir Keir levelled at the Prime Minister in the Commons on Wednesday .
The Labour leader actually misquoted Mr Sunak slightly .
Although his interview is no longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the BBC shared the audio with FactCheck .
The quote is : “ We won ’ t need to plan for no deal because we will have a deal to leave with.
” ( Emphases added ) .
It isn ’ t clear from presenter Nick Robinson ’ s questions which “ deal ” he is asking about at this point in the interview – the Withdrawal Agreement or a future free trade deal with the EU .
Mr Sunak appears to think they are talking about the immediate Withdrawal Agreement when he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
When Robinson clarifies that he is asking about a “ trade deal ” , Mr Sunak replies : “ There is going to be a trade deal , Nick .
[ … ] The trade deal , the outlines of it , the framework of it , is already there , contained in the political declaration in quite a lot of detail and it talks about an ambitious , comprehensive trading relationship [ … ] and we can go on and sort the details of that over the course of next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the prospects of getting a free trade deal .
But this is not the same as asserting that one is ready to go – he is saying that preliminary work has been done , with more needed in 2020 .
What else did the Conservatives say ?
There are various examples from before the election of senior Conservatives acknowledging that the UK did not yet have a free trade deal with the EU .
On 5 December 2019 , the Prime Minister was asked on ITV ’ s This Morning : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Years ?
” To which Mr Johnson replied : “ No , we will get many new deals with countries around the world , but with the EU , we can build a new free trade partnership by the end of next year ” .
In the ITV Leaders ’ Debate on 19 November 2019 , moderator Julie Etchingham asked : “ You reckon you can get your divorce deal done and a trade deal done by December 2020 ?
” Mr Johnson appears to nod .
Pushed on that deadline , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have ample time to do a fantastic free trade deal with our friends and partners in the EU ” .
In the BBC Leaders ’ Debate on 6 December 2019 , Mr Johnson at one point does appear to conflate the two deals .
But when presenter Nick Robinson interjects to clarify that the government does not yet have a free trade deal , the Prime Minister says : “ We have ample time to get on and build a new free trade partnership , not just with the EU , but with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ November 2019 , Rishi Sunak was asked by the BBC ’ s Andrew Marr whether the government would model the effects of different Brexit scenarios .
The Chancellor replied : “ Obviously you can ’ t model a deal that hasn ’ t yet been negotiated ” .
He draws a distinction between the two deals a few seconds later : “ There is already an impact assessment for the Withdrawal Agreement , that ’ s the deal that ’ s been negotiated .
But when it comes to the future relationship , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re talking about , Andrew , it ’ s when you get to that , and when you negotiate it , of course that would be modelled as you would expect ” .
And the Conservative manifesto states : “ Our deal is the only one on the table .
It is signed , sealed and ready .
It puts the whole country on a path to a new free trade agreement with the EU.
” A Labour party spokesperson told us : “ The Prime Minister knew exactly what he was doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treating the public with contempt then , and is doing the same now.
” Keir Starmer claimed : “ The Prime Minister said he had a deal – he didn ’ t ” .
Labour say the Conservatives conflated the “ oven-ready ” Withdrawal Agreement with the free trade deal still being thrashed out – wrongly giving the impression that the latter was already in the bag .
It ’ s possible that at some point before the election , a senior Conservative might have given that impression .
But we haven ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the three examples Labour have given to FactCheck to back up Sir Keir ’ s claim aren ’ t convincing .
In a pre-election factory visit , Mr Johnson listed benefits of the deal he had “ ready to go ” – benefits Labour say could only be achieved by a free trade deal .
But those comments were also applicable to the Withdrawal Agreement .
Mr Johnson could have been clearer at this event that the Withdrawal Agreement and its benefits were only temporary .
But this is not definitive proof @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal was already secured .
Labour told us the Prime Minister “ promised ” Britain “ a permanent break from talking about Brexit ” , which Labour say could only be achieved with a free trade deal .
Though he actually said that a break is what the country “ deserves ” after the election and in the same speech referred to the EU trade negotiations ahead .
Labour also pointed us to a Rishi Sunak comment from 2019 .
Though , when quoted fully , it ’ s clear that the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement , but had so far only got “ the outlines of it , the framework of it ” , with details to “ sort out ” in 2020 .
We have also found several examples – including at the BBC and ITV Leaders ’ Debates and in the party manifesto – of the Conservatives acknowledging before the election that they did not yet have a free trade deal with the EU .

With trade talks between the UK and EU in their final hours, Brexit was top of the agenda at this week’s Prime Minister’s Questions.
The Labour leader Keir Starmer was critical of Boris Johnson’s handling of the issue, telling MPs:
“The Prime Minister said he had a deal. He didn’t.”
But the evidence Labour offered to support the claim doesn’t add up. Here’s why.
Which deal was ‘oven-ready’?
The Conservatives made much of their “oven-ready” deal before the last election.
But in recent days, there’s been some debate over whether “oven-ready” referred to the Withdrawal Agreement – which set the terms of our immediate departure on 31 January this year – or to the long-term free trade deal that’s still being thrashed out.
Labour tell us that this is the basis of Sir Keir’s claim: that the Conservatives muddled the two deals in the minds of the public before the election, wrongly giving the impression that the free trade deal was in the bag.
They gave FactCheck three examples to support the claim. But we’re not convinced that any of them is conclusive.
The Nissan visit
Labour cite Mr Johnson’s comments on a pre-election visit to Nissan’s Sunderland factory: “the thing about the deal we’ve got ready to go is it does protect the supply chains, it keeps them intact, it makes sure that we have complete equivalence when it comes to our standards, our industrial requirements and all the rest of it…”
Labour say these benefits can only be achieved with a free trade deal, and therefore Mr Johnson was saying that he had a free trade deal “ready to go”.
But Mr Johnson’s comments here would also apply to the Withdrawal Agreement, which preserves – albeit temporarily – the regulations the UK adopted from the EU during its membership for the purposes of the transition period. From a business perspective, nothing would change on the day after Brexit. He adds “so as we come out, it’s all protected”, again suggesting it’s the Withdrawal Agreement he has in mind.
And the Prime Minister spells this out a few minutes later: “we have a decent deal, it gets us out on January 31 […] but what it also does is it keeps us in a state of grace, a state of equivalence with our European Union friends and partners, so the zero tariff, zero quota arrangements that we have, the ‘just in time’ supply chains, they remain absolutely there, perfect and intact”.
To be fair to Labour, we think Mr Johnson could have been clearer at this event that once the Withdrawal Agreement was passed, there would be another round of negotiations to secure a free trade deal – that the “state of grace” was only temporary.
But we don’t think that this is smoking-gun proof that the Conservatives said they had a free trade deal sewn up before the last election, as Sir Keir claimed.
The ‘break from talking about Brexit’
Labour told us that on 13 December 2019, Mr Johnson “promised” a “permanent break from talking about Brexit”, which they say “is not possible without a free trade deal”.
But that quote looks rather different in context. Standing outside Downing Street after the election result, the Prime Minister said: “I know that after five weeks frankly of electioneering this country deserves a break from wrangling, a break from politics, and a permanent break from talking about Brexit”.
In the same speech, he alluded to the negotiations ahead: “now is the moment – precisely as we leave the EU – to let those natural feelings find renewed expression, in building a new partnership, which is one of the great projects for next year, and as we work together with the EU […] redoubling our trading relationship”.
The Rishi Sunak interview
Labour told us that on 9 December 2019, Rishi Sunak said in a BBC Radio 4 Today interview: “We won’t need to plan for no deal, because we have a deal”. This is what Sir Keir levelled at the Prime Minister in the Commons on Wednesday.
The Labour leader actually misquoted Mr Sunak slightly. Although his interview is no longer available on the Radio 4 website, the BBC shared the audio with FactCheck. The quote is: “We won’t need to plan for no deal because we will have a deal to leave with.” (Emphases added).
It isn’t clear from presenter Nick Robinson’s questions which “deal” he is asking about at this point in the interview – the Withdrawal Agreement or a future free trade deal with the EU. Mr Sunak appears to think they are talking about the immediate Withdrawal Agreement when he describes “a deal to leave with”.
When Robinson clarifies that he is asking about a “trade deal”, Mr Sunak replies: “There is going to be a trade deal, Nick. […] The trade deal, the outlines of it, the framework of it, is already there, contained in the political declaration in quite a lot of detail and it talks about an ambitious, comprehensive trading relationship […] and we can go on and sort the details of that over the course of next year.”
Mr Sunak was certainly bullish about the prospects of getting a free trade deal. But this is not the same as asserting that one is ready to go – he is saying that preliminary work has been done, with more needed in 2020.
What else did the Conservatives say?
There are various examples from before the election of senior Conservatives acknowledging that the UK did not yet have a free trade deal with the EU.
On 5 December 2019, the Prime Minister was asked on ITV’s This Morning: “How long will the trade deals take? Years?” To which Mr Johnson replied: “No, we will get many new deals with countries around the world, but with the EU, we can build a new free trade partnership by the end of next year”.
In the ITV Leaders’ Debate on 19 November 2019, moderator Julie Etchingham asked: “You reckon you can get your divorce deal done and a trade deal done by December 2020?” Mr Johnson appears to nod. Pushed on that deadline, he says: “Look, we have ample time to do a fantastic free trade deal with our friends and partners in the EU”.
In the BBC Leaders’ Debate on 6 December 2019, Mr Johnson at one point does appear to conflate the two deals. But when presenter Nick Robinson interjects to clarify that the government does not yet have a free trade deal, the Prime Minister says: “We have ample time to get on and build a new free trade partnership, not just with the EU, but with countries around the world.”
On 3 November 2019, Rishi Sunak was asked by the BBC’s Andrew Marr whether the government would model the effects of different Brexit scenarios. The Chancellor replied: “Obviously you can’t model a deal that hasn’t yet been negotiated”.
He draws a distinction between the two deals a few seconds later: “There is already an impact assessment for the Withdrawal Agreement, that’s the deal that’s been negotiated. But when it comes to the future relationship, which I think is what you’re talking about, Andrew, it’s when you get to that, and when you negotiate it, of course that would be modelled as you would expect”.
And the Conservative manifesto states: “Our deal is the only one on the table. It is signed, sealed and ready. It puts the whole country on a path to a new free trade agreement with the EU.”
A Labour party spokesperson told us: “The Prime Minister knew exactly what he was doing in obscuring the facts. He was treating the public with contempt then, and is doing the same now.”
FactCheck verdict
Keir Starmer claimed: “The Prime Minister said he had a deal – he didn’t”. Labour say the Conservatives conflated the “oven-ready” Withdrawal Agreement with the free trade deal still being thrashed out – wrongly giving the impression that the latter was already in the bag.
It’s possible that at some point before the election, a senior Conservative might have given that impression. But we haven’t seen a case of that, and the three examples Labour have given to FactCheck to back up Sir Keir’s claim aren’t convincing.
In a pre-election factory visit, Mr Johnson listed benefits of the deal he had “ready to go” – benefits Labour say could only be achieved by a free trade deal. But those comments were also applicable to the Withdrawal Agreement. Mr Johnson could have been clearer at this event that the Withdrawal Agreement and its benefits were only temporary. But this is not definitive proof of his having claimed a free trade deal was already secured.
Labour told us the Prime Minister “promised” Britain “a permanent break from talking about Brexit”, which Labour say could only be achieved with a free trade deal. Though he actually said that a break is what the country “deserves” after the election and in the same speech referred to the EU trade negotiations ahead.
Labour also pointed us to a Rishi Sunak comment from 2019. Though, when quoted fully, it’s clear that the government had not yet negotiated a free trade agreement, but had so far only got “the outlines of it, the framework of it”, with details to “sort out” in 2020.
We have also found several examples – including at the BBC and ITV Leaders’ Debates and in the party manifesto – of the Conservatives acknowledging before the election that they did not yet have a free trade deal with the EU.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--Brandon Bernard had ‘grief and remorse for what happened to the couple who were killed’ – Ministry A

Brandon Bernard had ‘grief and remorse for what happened to the couple who were killed’ – Ministry Against the Death Penalty’s Sister Helen Prejean

We spoke to Sister Helen Prejean from the Ministry against the Death Penalty .
She works directly with prisoners on @ @ @

We spoke to Sister Helen Prejean from the Ministry against the Death Penalty. She works directly with prisoners on death row.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--Oscar-nominated director Nadine Labaki: ‘We should not be begging for the truth’ about Beirut explos

Oscar-nominated director Nadine Labaki: ‘We should not be begging for the truth’ about Beirut explosion

Lebanon ’ s caretaker prime minister and three former ministers have become the latest officials to be charged with negligence @ @ @ @ @ in Beirut , which left more than 200 people dead and thousands injured .
But @ @ @ @ @ has been criticised for its slow pace and a lack of answers .
Now , @ @ @ @ @ , Oscar-nominated director Nadine Labaki has made a short film on the blast .

Lebanon’s caretaker prime minister and three former ministers have become the latest officials to be charged with negligence following August’s explosion in Beirut, which left more than 200 people dead and thousands injured.
But the investigation into the blast has been criticised for its slow pace and a lack of answers. Now, in a call for justice, Oscar-nominated director Nadine Labaki has made a short film on the blast.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--Brandon Bernard executed after US Supreme Court rejected last-minute pleas

In the United States , anti-capital punishment campaigners have reacted with fury to a string of executions being carried out @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump ’ s presidency .
Last night , 40-year-old Brandon Bernard was executed by @ @ @ @ @ in Texas in 1999 .
It has long been the norm that executions are paused @ @ @ @ @ but not under President Trump .

In the United States, anti-capital punishment campaigners have reacted with fury to a string of executions being carried out in the last days of Donald Trump’s presidency.
Last night, 40-year-old Brandon Bernard was executed by lethal injection for two murders in Texas in 1999. It has long been the norm that executions are paused during the transition period – but not under President Trump.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--‘Climate change didn’t stop when Covid came along’ – UN’s deputy secretary-general

We spoke to Amina Mohammed , Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of its Sustainable Development Group .
@ @ @ @ @ how different countries had fared five years on from the Paris agreement .

We spoke to Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of its Sustainable Development Group. We began by asking her how different countries had fared five years on from the Paris agreement.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--EU commits to reducing emission by 55% by 2030 – five years on from the Paris Climate Agreement

Tomorrow will mark the fifth anniversary of the historic Paris Agreement when the world pledged to keep the global average @ @ @ @ @ degrees celsius .
The prime minister will also host a UN meeting tomorrow urging countries @ @ @ @ @ emissions reduction targets .
The EU , the world ’ s third-biggest emitter of greenhouse @ @ @ @ @ to reduce its emissions by 55 per cent by 2030 .
As the UK prepares @ @ @ @ @ climate summit in Glasgow in a year ’ s time , we took a look @ @ @ @ @

Tomorrow will mark the fifth anniversary of the historic Paris Agreement when the world pledged to keep the global average temperature rise to below two degrees celsius.
The prime minister will also host a UN meeting tomorrow urging countries to present revised, ambitious emissions reduction targets.
The EU, the world’s third-biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, has just committed to reduce its emissions by 55 per cent by 2030.
As the UK prepares to host COP26, the climate summit in Glasgow in a year’s time, we took a look at the challenges ahead.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--Inquest considers whether air pollutants contributed to nine-year-old Ella Kissi-Debrah’s death

At nine years old , Ella Kissi-Debrah died from a severe asthma attack .
She lived just yards from one @ @ @ @ @ roads .
A new inquest has been hearing whether high levels of pollution triggered her @ @ @ @ @ endured 30 hospital visits and numerous seizures over the preceding three years .

At nine years old, Ella Kissi-Debrah died from a severe asthma attack. She lived just yards from one of London’s busiest roads.
A new inquest has been hearing whether high levels of pollution triggered her final attack. Ella had endured 30 hospital visits and numerous seizures over the preceding three years.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--‘Everyone instinctively just loves her… she’s for real’ – Larry Lamb on Dame Barbara Windsor

We spoke to Larry Lamb , who played her on-screen husband Archie Mitchell in EastEnders and asked him about the @ @ @ @ @ .

We spoke to Larry Lamb, who played her on-screen husband Archie Mitchell in EastEnders and asked him about the first time he met her.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--Eastenders and Carry On star Dame Barbara Windsor dies aged 83

She was showbiz royalty – the queen of the Queen Vic .
Dame Barbara Windsor began life , a real @ @ @ @ @ name , first with the quintessentially British Carry On comedies then as the hard-nosed pub @ @ @ @ @ soap Eastenders .
Diagnosed with Alzheimer ’ s in 2014 , with her husband Scot @ @ @ @ @ research into the cruel disease .
He said even in the weeks before her death @ @ @ @ @ spirit never waned .

She was showbiz royalty – the queen of the Queen Vic. Dame Barbara Windsor began life, a real Eastender – becoming a household name, first with the quintessentially British Carry On comedies then as the hard-nosed pub landlady Peggy Mitchell in the soap Eastenders.
Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014, with her husband Scot she campaigned tirelessly for better research into the cruel disease. He said even in the weeks before her death, her humour and fighting spirit never waned.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--UK coronavirus self-isolation period reduced to 10 days

All four of the UK ’ s chief medical officers have said that people will only have to self-isolate for @ @ @ @ @ if they come into contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus .
The changes come @ @ @ @ @ apply to travellers having to quarantine after returning to the UK .
By the end @ @ @ @ @ were vaccinated for coronavirus in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
Figures are not @ @ @ @ @ though the government says the number vaccinated so far is “ in the tens of @ @ @ @ @ 21,672 new cases reported in the last 24 hours and 424 more people have died @ @ @ @ @ people who have died from Covid 19 is now 63,506 .

All four of the UK’s chief medical officers have said that people will only have to self-isolate for 10 days instead of 14 if they come into contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus.
The changes come in from Monday and also apply to travellers having to quarantine after returning to the UK.
By the end of Wednesday, 8,210 people were vaccinated for coronavirus in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Figures are not yet available for England – though the government says the number vaccinated so far is “in the tens of thousands”.
There were 21,672 new cases reported in the last 24 hours and 424 more people have died. The total number of people who have died from Covid 19 is now 63,506.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--PM say no-deal Brexit deal is ‘very, very ’likely’ ahead of Sunday deadline

The prime minister has warned that a no-deal Brexit is now “ very , very likely ” .
European Commission @ @ @ @ @ stressed that the UK could have its “ sovereignty ” and a deal but is @ @ @ @ @ is seeking .
It makes the chances of any agreement by the Sunday deadline seem @ @ @ @ @ , Boris Johnson went as far as saying that crashing out without a deal would @ @ @ @ @ though this programme has seen a confidential government document that paints a very different picture @

The prime minister has warned that a no-deal Brexit is now “very, very likely”. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that the UK could have its “sovereignty” and a deal but is not offering the concessions it is seeking.
It makes the chances of any agreement by the Sunday deadline seem even more remote.
Today, Boris Johnson went as far as saying that crashing out without a deal would be “wonderful”, though this programme has seen a confidential government document that paints a very different picture.


channel4uk--2020-12-11--Series 6, Episode 17: Yungblud

Series 6, Episode 17: Yungblud

Dominic Harrison , or Yungblud , is a singer-songwriter who has become the poster of the younger generation .
At @ @ @ @ @ , he responded to cancelled tours and gigs by becoming one of the first major @ @ @ @ @ from his LA home .
Nine months on , he ’ s back in the @ @ @ @ @ than nine million followers online and heading for a number one album in the charts @ @ @ @ @ to Krishnan about how why his generation are fighting against division in society , his @ @ @ @ @ has changed music the music industry .
You can listen to and subscribe to the @ @ @ @ @ .
Or on Spotify , Acast , CastBox and other good podcast apps .
So @ @ @ @ @ the big ideas changing the way we think , act and live – and how @ @ @ @ @ have as individuals .
A filmed version of each interview is available on our Channel @ @ @ @ @ hit subscribe to keep updated on when a new episode is published .

Warning: Contains strong language throughout
Dominic Harrison, or Yungblud, is a singer-songwriter who has become the poster of the younger generation.
At the start of the pandemic, he responded to cancelled tours and gigs by becoming one of the first major artists to start streaming performances from his LA home.
Nine months on, he’s back in the UK, streaming to more than nine million followers online and heading for a number one album in the charts this week.
He speaks to Krishnan about how why his generation are fighting against division in society, his sexuality and how the pandemic has changed music the music industry.
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--2020-12-12--New ‘Test and Dine’ proposal offers lifeline to Birmingham restaurants

Birmingham City Council has come up with a scheme they hope could be a lifeline to cafes and restaurants struggling @ @ @ @ @ – especially in Tier 3 areas .
The ‘ Test and Dine ’ idea would @ @ @ @ @ eat out to get a Covid test a few hours earlier .
67 local authorities @ @ @ @ @ strictest measures will start enhanced community testing support programmes from Monday – in a bid @ @ @ @ @ .

Birmingham City Council has come up with a scheme they hope could be a lifeline to cafes and restaurants struggling to survive the coronavirus restrictions – especially in Tier 3 areas.
The ‘Test and Dine’ idea would enable people who want to eat out to get a Covid test a few hours earlier.
67 local authorities currently under England’s strictest measures will start enhanced community testing support programmes from Monday – in a bid to drive down transmission rates.


channel4uk--2020-12-12--Royal Navy gunboats on standby to protect British fishing waters after no-deal Brexit

Four armed Royal Navy gunboats have been put on standby to guard British waters from EU trawlers – if there @ @ @ @ @ fishing rights by the end of the year .
Senior Conservatives have condemned the threat @ @ @ @ @ as talks between the UK and the European Union ’ s chief negotiators resumed again @ @ @ @ @ hope of a breakthrough .

Four armed Royal Navy gunboats have been put on standby to guard British waters from EU trawlers – if there’s no deal on fishing rights by the end of the year.
Senior Conservatives have condemned the threat as “irresponsible” – as talks between the UK and the European Union’s chief negotiators resumed again in Brussels with apparently little hope of a breakthrough.


channel4uk--2020-12-13--UK-EU trade deal advocate, MP Tobias Ellwood discusses trade talk extension

EU-UK trade deal advocate , MP Tobias Ellwood spoke to Fatima Manji to discuss trade talks that will now continue @ @ @ @ @ .
Following a phone call between Boris Johnson and the EU chief Ursula von de @ @ @ @

EU-UK trade deal advocate, MP Tobias Ellwood spoke to Fatima Manji to discuss trade talks that will now continue beyond today’s deadline. Following a phone call between Boris Johnson and the EU chief Ursula von de Leyen earlier today.


channel4uk--2020-12-13--European Parliament’s Brexit trade negotiator discusses plans for UK-EU trade talks to continue past

European Parliament’s Brexit trade negotiator discusses plans for UK-EU trade talks to continue past today’s deadline

MEP , Christophe Hansen , the European Parliament ’ s Brexit trade negotiator spoke to Fatima Manji about the decision @ @ @ @ @ trade talks beyond today ’ s original deadline .

MEP, Christophe Hansen, the European Parliament’s Brexit trade negotiator spoke to Fatima Manji about the decision made today to continue UK-EU trade talks beyond today’s original deadline.


channel4uk--2020-12-13--Over 400 students missing in Nigeria after gunmen attacked secondary school

Hundreds of Nigerian school students are still missing – after gunmen attacked their secondary school in the northwestern Katsina state @ @ @ @ @ gunmen , armed with AK47 rifles stormed the school on Friday night .
Some students @ @ @ @ @ wall and escape – but around 400 are still unaccounted for .
Fatima Manji reports @

Hundreds of Nigerian school students are still missing – after gunmen attacked their secondary school in the northwestern Katsina state. A large group of gunmen, armed with AK47 rifles stormed the school on Friday night. Some students managed to climb over a wall and escape – but around 400 are still unaccounted for. Fatima Manji reports.


channel4uk--2020-12-13--NHS chiefs warn against mixing at Christmas, how careful do the UK public plan to be?

NHS chiefs have warned that people must think “ really carefully ” about mixing with other people over Christmas – @ @ @ @ @ contact risks spreading coronavirus , especially to vulnerable people like elderly relatives .
Our Home @ @ @ @ @ from coronavirus testing centre in Nottingham .

NHS chiefs have warned that people must think “really carefully” about mixing with other people over Christmas – warning that any extra social contact risks spreading coronavirus, especially to vulnerable people like elderly relatives. Our Home Correspondent Darshna Soni joins us from coronavirus testing centre in Nottingham.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--Could Covid-19 and Brexit lead to Scotland’s exit from the United Kingdom?

Our Scotland correspondent Ciaran Jenkins has been talking to voters who previously rejected independence to see if the tide is @ @ @ @ @ be behind their change of heart .
Polls suggest that support for Scottish independence has @ @ @ @ @ this be the end of the Union ?
Our Scotland correspondent Ciaran Jenkins has been @ @ @ @ @ rejected independence to see if the tide is turning , and what might be behind @ @ @ @ @ You can listen to , download and subscribe to The Fourcast on Apple Podcasts here @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , Acast , CastBox and other good podcast apps .
The RSS @ @ @ @

Our Scotland correspondent Ciaran Jenkins has been talking to voters who previously rejected independence to see if the tide is turning, and what might be behind their change of heart.
Polls suggest that support for Scottish independence has never been stronger. Could this be the end of the Union?
Our Scotland correspondent Ciaran Jenkins has been talking to voters who previously rejected independence to see if the tide is turning, and what might be behind their change of heart.
Sources: ITV, BBC, Twitter (@ruthdavidson).
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
You can listen to, download and subscribe to The Fourcast on Apple Podcasts here.
Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify, Acast, CastBox and other good podcast apps.
The RSS feed is here.


channel4uk--2020-12-13--Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen agree to continue UK – EU trade talks

They ’ re still talking – Boris Johnson and the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen have promised to “ @ @ @ @ @ in the effort to reach a post Brexit trade deal .
Until this morning the @ @ @ @ @ seemed pretty bleak .
But although the two leaders are keeping the door open – @ @ @ @ @ were “ still very far apart on key things .
”

They’re still talking – Boris Johnson and the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen have promised to “go the extra mile” in the effort to reach a post Brexit trade deal. Until this morning the chances of any such agreement seemed pretty bleak. But although the two leaders are keeping the door open – just Mr Johnson warned they were “still very far apart on key things.”


channel4uk--2020-12-14--Thriller author John le Carré dies aged 89

With the death of John le Carré , the world of espionage has lost its greatest raconteur , forged from @ @ @ @ @ spy in Germany in the 1950s .
Ten years ago , we went to visit @ @ @ @ @ in Cornwall , where we talked of his fictional hero George Smiley , and his @ @ @ @ @ British spy Kim Philby who defected to Moscow .
He said it was to be @ @ @ @ @ he lived long enough to give a few more .

With the death of John le Carré, the world of espionage has lost its greatest raconteur, forged from his own life as a spy in Germany in the 1950s.
Ten years ago, we went to visit him at his cliff-top home in Cornwall, where we talked of his fictional hero George Smiley, and his own real-life unmasking by the British spy Kim Philby who defected to Moscow.
He said it was to be his last interview, but he lived long enough to give a few more.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--Daniel Barenboim on a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

One of the strongest advocates for finding a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is Daniel Barenboim , one of @ @ @ @ @ pre-eminent musicians .
The conductor and pianist spent lockdown recording Beethoven ’ s sonatas to @ @ @ @ @ of the great composer ’ s birth this week .
But for the last 20 @ @ @ @ @ the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra bringing together musicians from Israel , the Palestinian territories and Arab @ @

One of the strongest advocates for finding a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is Daniel Barenboim, one of the modern world’s pre-eminent musicians.
The conductor and pianist spent lockdown recording Beethoven’s sonatas to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the great composer’s birth this week.
But for the last 20 years he has worked with the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra bringing together musicians from Israel, the Palestinian territories and Arab countries.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--Activist Akram Salhab on the Palestinian experience of British colonialism

Britain ’ s colonial past has been the centre of intense debate over the past two years , with the @ @ @ @ @ and the Windrush scandal exposing the terrible treatment of those who came to this country @ @ @ @ @ war .
And the contribution of troops from the Empire and Commonwealth who gave their @ @ @ @ @ lives .
But are there some parts of this country ’ s history that remain @ @ @ @ @ Palestinian activist Akram Salhab has made this film exploring how Palestinians feel that their experience @ @ @ @ @ sidelined .
This is his personal account of how it feels to be British and @ @ @ @ @ views and those of other British Palestinians .

Britain’s colonial past has been the centre of intense debate over the past two years, with the Black Lives Matter movement – and the Windrush scandal exposing the terrible treatment of those who came to this country from the Caribbean after the war. And the contribution of troops from the Empire and Commonwealth who gave their service and sometimes sacrificed their lives.
But are there some parts of this country’s history that remain off-limits for discussion?
British Palestinian activist Akram Salhab has made this film exploring how Palestinians feel that their experience of British colonialism is being sidelined.
This is his personal account of how it feels to be British and Palestinian. These are his views and those of other British Palestinians.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--Electoral College to confirm Joe Biden win

America ’ s electoral college – the body that actually appoints a president , based on the votes cast in @ @ @ @ @ likened to the appendix : “ It doesn ’ t do much good , but @ @ @ @ @ ’ s big trouble !
” This is what almost happened this year , when @ @ @ @ @ his defeat in the courts .
But today the Electoral College convenes to ratify the @ @ @ @ @ the final blow to President ’ s Trump ’ s hopes .

America’s electoral college – the body that actually appoints a president, based on the votes cast in each state – was once likened to the appendix: “It doesn’t do much good, but when it gets inflamed there’s big trouble!”
This is what almost happened this year, when Donald Trump tried to overturn his defeat in the courts. But today the Electoral College convenes to ratify the result – and presumably deal the final blow to President’s Trump’s hopes.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--‘Brexit will hurt us but it won’t kill us’, says Bentley chief

The boss of one of Britain ’ s most famous car makers has said that a no-deal Brexit could damage @ @ @ @ @ .
Bentley Motors has been preparing for years for leaving the EU , spending millions @ @ @ @ @ ’ worth of parts and even having 747s on standby .
The chief executive Adrian @ @ @ @ @ News that while Brexit won ’ t kill Bentley it will hurt them .

The boss of one of Britain’s most famous car makers has said that a no-deal Brexit could damage the entire UK motor industry.
Bentley Motors has been preparing for years for leaving the EU, spending millions on warehousing, stockpiling weeks’ worth of parts and even having 747s on standby.
The chief executive Adrian Hallmark has told Channel 4 News that while Brexit won’t kill Bentley it will hurt them.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier says there’s a ‘narrow path’ to Brexit deal

First there was a dead end .
Now , there ’ s a “ narrow path ” to a Brexit @ @ @ @ @ according to the European Union ’ s chief Brexit negotiator , Michel Barnier .
He @ @ @ @ @ that there had been some progress on the three remaining areas of disagreement – fisheries @ @ @ @ @ to enforce the agreement .
But some MEPs are now questioning whether there ’ s @ @ @ @ @ European Parliament to ratify a deal before the end of the year .

First there was a dead end. Now, there’s a “narrow path” to a Brexit deal. That’s according to the European Union’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier.
He told EU ambassadors in Brussels that there had been some progress on the three remaining areas of disagreement – fisheries, fair competition and how to enforce the agreement.
But some MEPs are now questioning whether there’s enough time left for the European Parliament to ratify a deal before the end of the year.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--MPs grill civil servants over billions spent on PPE during Covid

Civil servants have been grilled by MPs over the billions spent on personal protective equipment ( PPE ) at the @ @ @ @ @ There was enormous pressure to find protective clothing for NHS staff and care home workers @ @ @ @ @ in the spring .
But MPs have been frustrated at the answers they have received @ @ @ @ @ huge sums were spent .

Civil servants have been grilled by MPs over the billions spent on personal protective equipment (PPE) at the height of the pandemic.
There was enormous pressure to find protective clothing for NHS staff and care home workers as the virus took hold in the spring.
But MPs have been frustrated at the answers they have received about how and why such huge sums were spent.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--‘The safest thing is not to see each other’ over Christmas, says Independent SAGE’s Prof Christina P

‘The safest thing is not to see each other’ over Christmas, says Independent SAGE’s Prof Christina Pagel

We speak to two professors from University College London , who are both members of the Independent SAGE group .
@ @ @ @ @ research mathematician and Deenan Pillay is a virologist .

We speak to two professors from University College London, who are both members of the Independent SAGE group.
Christina Pagel is a health research mathematician and Deenan Pillay is a virologist.


channel4uk--2020-12-14--Health Secretary says new variant of Covid detected – as London moves to Tier 3 restrictions

More than 10 million people in London and parts of Essex and Hertfordshire will fall under Tier 3 restrictions from @ @ @ @ @ have been rising fastest among 10 to 19-year-olds in the south east , but most @ @ @ @ @ pubs and restaurants close .
While doctors at more than 100 centres took delivery of @ @ @ @ @ have been asking for exact figures for the number of people vaccinated in England .
@ @ @ @ @ say the number is “ in the tens of thousands ” .
We do know @ @ @ @ @ have been vaccinated so far in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .

More than 10 million people in London and parts of Essex and Hertfordshire will fall under Tier 3 restrictions from midnight tomorrow.
Covid rates have been rising fastest among 10 to 19-year-olds in the south east, but most schools will stay open while pubs and restaurants close.
While doctors at more than 100 centres took delivery of the vaccine today, we have been asking for exact figures for the number of people vaccinated in England. But the government will only say the number is “in the tens of thousands”.
We do know that at least 24,910 people have been vaccinated so far in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--Esther Rantzen says ‘we don’t have the right to make individual decisions’ amid Christmas virus conc

Esther Rantzen says ‘we don’t have the right to make individual decisions’ amid Christmas virus concerns

Although everyone is desperate for some kind of respite , is an extended family Christmas too much of a risk @ @ @ @ @ Esther Rantzen , founder of the Silver Line charity , and the TV presenter Kirstie @ @ @ @ @ the Queen of Christmas , and started by asking Kirsty how she ’ s celebrating @ @ @

Although everyone is desperate for some kind of respite, is an extended family Christmas too much of a risk?
We spoke to Dame Esther Rantzen, founder of the Silver Line charity, and the TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp, otherwise known as the Queen of Christmas, and started by asking Kirsty how she’s celebrating this year.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--The often secret world of government special advisers

They work behind closed doors and they ’ re paid for by the taxpayer – to the tune of some @ @ @ @ @ it turns out .
Details of the often-secret world of special advisers , known as @ @ @ @ @ in the government ’ s latest annual report .
Amongst the disclosures , it shows @ @ @ @ @ s personal photographer Andrew Parsons , who ’ s described as “ part time ” @ @ @ @ @ £100,000 a year .
The role was created even though a Ministry of Defence photographer @ @ @ @ @ the government .

They work behind closed doors and they’re paid for by the taxpayer – to the tune of some £10 million in total, it turns out.
Details of the often-secret world of special advisers, known as Spads, have been revealed in the government’s latest annual report. Amongst the disclosures, it shows that the Prime Minister’s personal photographer Andrew Parsons, who’s described as “part time”, earns the equivalent of £100,000 a year.
The role was created even though a Ministry of Defence photographer already worked in Whitehall for the government.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--Biden presidential election victory confirmed by electoral college

In the United States , the Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell has joined other leading Republicans to congratulate Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ s president elect , after the electoral college formally confirmed Mr Biden ’ s victory @ @ @ @ @ refuses to concede the election , repeatedly making baseless claims of electoral fraud .

In the United States, the Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell has joined other leading Republicans to congratulate Joe Biden on becoming the country’s president elect, after the electoral college formally confirmed Mr Biden’s victory.
President Trump himself still refuses to concede the election, repeatedly making baseless claims of electoral fraud.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--Pandemic ‘exposed the underlying inequalities in society and amplified them’, says Prof Sir Michael

Pandemic ‘exposed the underlying inequalities in society and amplified them’, says Prof Sir Michael Marmot

We spoke to the author of the report on inequality , Sir Michael Marmot , and asked if he saw @ @ @ @ @ in post-war Britain .

We spoke to the author of the report on inequality, Sir Michael Marmot, and asked if he saw parallels with the transformations seen in post-war Britain.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--UK inequalities exposed by Covid death toll, says report

The Covid-19 pandemic has laid bare the inequalities in our society , and multiplied the suffering of some of our @ @ @ @ @ is the conclusion of a landmark report on health inequality led by Professor Sir Michael @ @ @ @ @ deprivation must be addressed in the wake of the pandemic , or many children ’ @ @ @ @ @ blighted .

The Covid-19 pandemic has laid bare the inequalities in our society, and multiplied the suffering of some of our most deprived communities.
That is the conclusion of a landmark report on health inequality led by Professor Sir Michael Marmot.
He says social deprivation must be addressed in the wake of the pandemic, or many children’s lives will be permanently blighted.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--UK redundancies hit record high as jobless rate rises again

The number of people in the UK who ’ ve been laid off has soared to a record high .
@ @ @ @ @ to October rose to 370,000 , while there are now more than 800,000 fewer workers @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic struck .
A third of those job losses were in hospitality , a @ @ @ @ @ provides opportunities for younger workers .

The number of people in the UK who’ve been laid off has soared to a record high.
Redundancies in the three months to October rose to 370,000, while there are now more than 800,000 fewer workers on company payrolls than before the pandemic struck.
A third of those job losses were in hospitality, a sector alongside retail that traditionally provides opportunities for younger workers.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--Schools in England told they cannot close early for Christmas

Schools in the London borough of Greenwich are being forced to stay open , even though the council wanted to @ @ @ @ @ fears over rising Covid infection rates .
The government threatened them with legal action if @ @ @ @ @ the Education Secretary insisted children ’ s education was “ a national priority ” .
@ @ @ @ @ secondary schools and colleges in England will be given rapid testing kits to help find @ @ @ @ @ .

Schools in the London borough of Greenwich are being forced to stay open, even though the council wanted to move to online learning amid fears over rising Covid infection rates.
The government threatened them with legal action if schools were closed, as the Education Secretary insisted children’s education was “a national priority”.
But from January, all secondary schools and colleges in England will be given rapid testing kits to help find asymptomatic cases and reduce transmission.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--‘The worst gift you can give to anybody over Christmas is a dose of this horrible disease’ –  Prof S

‘The worst gift you can give to anybody over Christmas is a dose of this horrible disease’ –  Prof Steve Reicher

Professor Steve Reicher is a behavioural scientist at the University of St Andrews .
He ’ s advised both the @ @ @ @ @ their response to the coronavirus crisis .

Professor Steve Reicher is a behavioural scientist at the University of St Andrews. He’s advised both the UK and Scottish governments on their response to the coronavirus crisis.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--‘Growing frustration and anger about being told how we must behave and what we must do’ – Tory MP Si

‘Growing frustration and anger about being told how we must behave and what we must do’ – Tory MP Sir Desmond Swayne

We spoke to the Conservative MP Desmond Swayne and started by asking if we should cancel Christmas .

We spoke to the Conservative MP Desmond Swayne and started by asking if we should cancel Christmas.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--UK ministers offer Welsh patients treatment in England

The Covid case rate in Wales remains by far the highest in the UK , something which will no doubt @ @ @ @ @ about Christmas rules .

The Covid case rate in Wales remains by far the highest in the UK, something which will no doubt be playing into four-nation discussions about Christmas rules.


channel4uk--2020-12-15--UK government under pressure to tighten Christmas Covid rules

The government has been accused of blundering into a major error that will cost lives , if it goes ahead @ @ @ @ @ restrictions .
This was the stark warning from two major health journals today .
In @ @ @ @ @ the editors of the BMJ and the Health Service Journal said allowing households to mix @ @ @ @ @ lead to Covid hospital admissions rising to the same levels as their peak in April @ @ @ @ @ hours , there have been a further 18,450 new cases across the UK , with @ @ @ @ @ of all local areas in England and in every London borough .
And 506 more @ @ @ @ @ which takes the total to 64,908 .

The government has been accused of blundering into a major error that will cost lives, if it goes ahead with plans to ease Christmas restrictions. This was the stark warning from two major health journals today.
In a rare joint statement, the editors of the BMJ and the Health Service Journal said allowing households to mix indoors over five days could lead to Covid hospital admissions rising to the same levels as their peak in April.
In the last 24 hours, there have been a further 18,450 new cases across the UK, with infections rising in three quarters of all local areas in England and in every London borough.
And 506 more deaths have been reported, which takes the total to 64,908.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--What next for the Iran nuclear deal?

What next for the Iran nuclear deal?

Our International Editor , Lindsey Hilsum , has been reporting on Iran for over 20 years , and explains the @ @ @ @ @ .
Last month , Iran ’ s top nuclear scientist , Mohsen Fakhrizadeh , was @ @ @ @ @ the capital Tehran .
The scientist , who was considered the driving force behind Iran @ @ @ @ @ for two decades , was in his vehicle with his bodyguards when the attack occurred @ @ @ @ @ played out is unclear .
One reporter at the scene said six gunmen were involved @ @ @ @ @ highly sophisticated satellite-controlled machine-gun with artificial intelligence was used .
Our International Editor , Lindsey @ @ @ @ @ on Iran for over 20 years , and explains what this killing might mean for @ @ @ @ @ You can listen to , download and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts here @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , Acast , CastBox and other good podcast apps .
The RSS @ @ @ @

Our International Editor, Lindsey Hilsum, has been reporting on Iran for over 20 years, and explains the recent tensions in the region.
Last month, Iran’s top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, was assassinated in an ambush near the capital Tehran. The scientist, who was considered the driving force behind Iran’s nuclear weapons program for two decades, was in his vehicle with his bodyguards when the attack occurred, but how the attack played out is unclear. One reporter at the scene said six gunmen were involved, other reports said a highly sophisticated satellite-controlled machine-gun with artificial intelligence was used.
Our International Editor, Lindsey Hilsum, has been reporting on Iran for over 20 years, and explains what this killing might mean for tensions in the region.
Clips from: BBC News, CNN, ABC News, NBC Dateline, CBS News
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
You can listen to, download and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts here.
Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify, Acast, CastBox and other good podcast apps.
The RSS feed is here.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Nigerian musician Rema now making political waves

He ’ s become one of the biggest names in Afropop with a huge following across Africa .
Nigerian superstar @ @ @ @ @ waves .
His latest song Peace of Mind reflects on a difficult year for the @ @ @ @ @ homeland , especially the popular movement that ’ s taken to the streets .

He’s become one of the biggest names in Afropop with a huge following across Africa. Nigerian superstar Rema is now making political waves.
His latest song Peace of Mind reflects on a difficult year for the world, and for his homeland, especially the popular movement that’s taken to the streets.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Ancient Egyptian artefact found in cigar box in Aberdeen

It ’ s the archeologist ’ s equivalent of finding a £5 note down the back of the sofa , @ @ @ @ @ scale .
Step forward assistant curator Abeer Eladany , doing a stock take in the @ @ @ @ @ Aberdeen when she found an old cigar box with a 5,000-year-old Egyptian surprise .

It’s the archeologist’s equivalent of finding a £5 note down the back of the sofa, but on a much bigger scale.
Step forward assistant curator Abeer Eladany, doing a stock take in the vaults of the University of Aberdeen when she found an old cigar box with a 5,000-year-old Egyptian surprise.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Families of people suffering ‘mental health consequences of Covid-19’ need a voice’ says MP

The daily number of those who ’ ve died with coronavirus , up by more than 600 people today , @ @ @ @ @ the havoc being wrought by the pandemic .
But the impact on mental health is @ @ @ @ @ ’ s concerning some MPs , notably Sir Charles Walker , a vice-chairman of the @ @ @ @ @ He ’ s been open about his own battle with obsessive compulsive disorder , and @ @ @ @ @ about his fears of a gathering mental health crisis across the country .
We started @ @ @ @ @ was so concerned about the restrictions on people mixing .

The daily number of those who’ve died with coronavirus, up by more than 600 people today, is a sobering reminder of the havoc being wrought by the pandemic.
But the impact on mental health is largely unseen. And that’s concerning some MPs, notably Sir Charles Walker, a vice-chairman of the Conservatives’ 1922 Committee.
He’s been open about his own battle with obsessive compulsive disorder, and earlier he spoke to us about his fears of a gathering mental health crisis across the country.
We started by asking him why he was so concerned about the restrictions on people mixing.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Inside a Syrian hospital – amid warnings of Covid “catastrophe”

Covid meets war – that is the grim reality in Syria ’ s last rebel-held bastion in Idlib province , @ @ @ @ @ with rising numbers of Covid patients while the intense bombardment by the Syrian regime continues @ @ @ @ @ Fadi Al Halabi has had exclusive access inside the ICU ward of al Mazrat , @ @ @ @ @ hospitals in the region , and we follow one of the doctors who ’ s @ @ @ @ @ keep treating his patients against the odds .

Covid meets war – that is the grim reality in Syria’s last rebel-held bastion in Idlib province, where hospitals struggle to cope with rising numbers of Covid patients while the intense bombardment by the Syrian regime continues.
Channel 4 News filmmaker Fadi Al Halabi has had exclusive access inside the ICU ward of Al Zeraat, one of the few surviving hospitals in the region and the only Syrian American Medical Society hospital specializing in critical cases of Covid-19 in Idlib.
We follow one of the doctors who’s working round the clock to keep treating his patients against the odds.
Warning: includes distressing images.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--The families facing financial hardship at Christmas

For the first time in its history , the UN humanitarian aid agency Unicef has launched an emergency response in @ @ @ @ @ feed children caught up in the coronavirus crisis .
The pandemic has seen hundreds of @ @ @ @ @ jobs and left many families struggling to cope .
The national poverty charity Turn to @ @ @ @ @ parents can ’ t afford Christmas presents without getting into debt .
We have been @ @ @ @ @ families facing financial hardship .

For the first time in its history, the UN humanitarian aid agency Unicef has launched an emergency response in the UK, to help feed children caught up in the coronavirus crisis.
The pandemic has seen hundreds of thousands of people lose their jobs and left many families struggling to cope.
The national poverty charity Turn to Us says one in five parents can’t afford Christmas presents without getting into debt.
We have been speaking to one of the families facing financial hardship.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--‘Fighting for a better environment and creating new jobs can go hand in hand,’ says environment camp

‘Fighting for a better environment and creating new jobs can go hand in hand,’ says environment campaigner

We are joined by Katie Neild from Client Earth , an organisation that fights for environmental causes through the courts @ @ @ @ @ the GMB union , who represents workers at Heathrow Airport .

We are joined by Katie Neild from Client Earth, an organisation that fights for environmental causes through the courts, and Gavin Davies from the GMB union, who represents workers at Heathrow Airport.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Supreme Court overturns ban on Heathrow third runway

Another key ruling has disappointed environmental campaigners .
The prospect of a third runway at London ’ s Heathrow has @ @ @ @ @ the airport ’ s owners won a challenge at the Supreme Court .
It means @ @ @ @ @ permission for the runway , which had previously been blocked by the Court of Appeal @ @ @ @ @ UK ’ s latest climate change targets .

Another key ruling has disappointed environmental campaigners. The prospect of a third runway at London’s Heathrow has been given a boost after the airport’s owners won a challenge at the Supreme Court.
It means they can now seek planning permission for the runway, which had previously been blocked by the Court of Appeal for failing to meet the UK’s latest climate change targets.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Mother speaks of ‘justice’ after coroner rules that air pollution contributed to daughter’s death

We spoke to Rosamund Adoo Kissi-Debrah , Ella ’ s mother , and asked what this verdict meant to her @ @

We spoke to Rosamund Adoo Kissi-Debrah, Ella’s mother, and asked what this verdict meant to her personally.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Air pollution contributed to girl’s death, says landmark ruling

In a landmark ruling , a coroner has recorded air pollution as a cause of death after an inquest into @ @ @ @ @ girl .
Ella Kissi-Debrah died after a fatal asthma attack seven years ago .
Now @ @ @ @ @ air pollution has ever been listed as a cause on a death certificate in the @ @ @ @ @ mother Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah said they had got the justice her daughter so deserved .
She @ @ @ @ @ a new Clean Air Act .

In a landmark ruling, a coroner has recorded air pollution as a cause of death after an inquest into the death of a nine-year-old girl.
Ella Kissi-Debrah died after a fatal asthma attack seven years ago. Now this is the first time air pollution has ever been listed as a cause on a death certificate in the UK.
Ella’s mother Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah said they had got the justice her daughter so deserved. She wants her legacy to be a new Clean Air Act.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Wales First Minister ‘confident’ that tighter restrictions over Christmas break will slow down Covid

Wales First Minister ‘confident’ that tighter restrictions over Christmas break will slow down Covid infection rates

In Wales , First Minister Mark Drakeford has said people must limit mixing over Christmas to just two households , @ @ @ @ @ into law ahead of a third Welsh lockdown , which comes into force on the @ @ @ @ @ spoke to Mr Drakeford and began by asking if his government has lost control of @ @ @

In Wales, First Minister Mark Drakeford has said people must limit mixing over Christmas to just two households, something which will be put into law ahead of a third Welsh lockdown, which comes into force on the 28th of December. We spoke to Mr Drakeford and began by asking if his government has lost control of the pandemic.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--Boris Johnson calls on UK to have ‘smaller’ Christmas – to reduce Covid spread

Keep it small , keep it short and keep it local – that ’ s the message on Christmas from @ @ @ @ @ chief medical officer as Boris Johnson urged people to exercise “ extreme caution ” about @ @ @ @ @ friends .
The easing of strict coronavirus rules will still go ahead over the festive @ @ @ @ @ said banning Christmas altogether would be “ inhuman ” .
But from England and Scotland @ @ @ @ @ to limit travel and interactions as much as possible .
While Wales has changed the @ @ @ @ @ households to get together .
The latest UK figures show another 25,161 new coronavirus cases @ @ @ @ @ .
There have sadly been another 612 deaths , taking the total now to 65,520 @ @ @ @ @ people have received the vaccine so far .

Keep it small, keep it short and keep it local – that’s the message on Christmas from the UK government’s chief medical officer as Boris Johnson urged people to exercise “extreme caution” about meeting up with relatives or friends.
The easing of strict coronavirus rules will still go ahead over the festive period, after Mr Johnson said banning Christmas altogether would be “inhuman”.
But from England and Scotland there’s strong advice to limit travel and interactions as much as possible. While Wales has changed the law to allow just two households to get together.
The latest UK figures show another 25,161 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. There have sadly been another 612 deaths, taking the total now to 65,520. The government says 137,897 people have received the vaccine so far.


channel4uk--2020-12-16--How did we get coronavirus vaccines so fast?

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused global disruption – but conditions also turned out to be perfect for researchers to quickly @ @ @ @ @ against the new virus .
Knowledge from previous epidemics meant experts could move fast .
@ @ @ @ @ crisis meant there was no shortage of money , volunteers or infected cases to study @ @ @ @ @ managed to produce a range of Covid-19 vaccines in months , rather than years , @ @ @ @ @ .

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused global disruption – but conditions also turned out to be perfect for researchers to quickly develop vaccines that protect people against the new virus.
Knowledge from previous epidemics meant experts could move fast. And the scale of the crisis meant there was no shortage of money, volunteers or infected cases to study.
FactCheck explains how scientists managed to produce a range of Covid-19 vaccines in months, rather than years, without cutting corners on safety.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--From kitchen discos to cooking for charity – how people spread hope in 2020

Now you don ’ t need us to tell you , 2020 has been a bit of a miserable year @ @ @ @ @ and frankly , this programme has often been a bit grim too .
But tonight @ @ @ @ @ cheer you up with some hope , inspiration and people who have gone out of @ @ @ @ @ – despite the stress of living through this pandemic .
We also spoke to four @ @ @ @ @ a bit of joy during the pandemic .
The cook and food writer Melissa Hemsley @ @ @ @ @ for charities cooking and delivering hot meals for those in need – and Lee and @ @ @ @ @ ve been handing out care packages to cancer patients .
We asked the singer Sophie @ @ @ @ @ discos she ’ s been hosting to keep people cheerful under lockdown .

Now you don’t need us to tell you, 2020 has been a bit of a miserable year to say the least – and frankly, this programme has often been a bit grim too.
But tonight we’ll try to cheer you up with some hope, inspiration and people who have gone out of their way to help others – despite the stress of living through this pandemic.
We also spoke to four people who have been sharing a bit of joy during the pandemic.
The cook and food writer Melissa Hemsley, who’s volunteered for charities cooking and delivering hot meals for those in need – and Lee and Lorraine Lewis, who’ve been handing out care packages to cancer patients.
We asked the singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor, about the virtual discos she’s been hosting to keep people cheerful under lockdown.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--Inventor claims to have made world’s first zero plastic bottle

From getting a third-class degree in chemistry , to inventing what could be the world ’ s first zero-plastics bottle @ @ @ @ @ quite a journey for James Longcroft .
He ’ s even blown up his own @ @ @ @ @ his quest to create a fully biodegradable bottle .
He now hopes his design can @ @ @ @ @ pollution which is choking our planet .

From getting a third-class degree in chemistry, to inventing what could be the world’s first zero-plastics bottle – it’s been quite a journey for James Longcroft.
He’s even blown up his own kitchen a few times during his quest to create a fully biodegradable bottle.
He now hopes his design can help to reverse the plastic pollution which is choking our planet.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--French draft law aimed at tackling radical islamists raises fears of social division

As France struggles to contain the coronavirus outbreak , President Macron himself has tested positive for the disease .
He @ @ @ @ @ with some controversial measures – not least , a draft law to establish what ’ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s aimed at tackling radical Islamists , after several brutal killings this @ @ @ @ @ he wants Muslim leaders to acknowledge the values of the French republic , but Amnesty @ @ @ @ @ freedoms by shutting down an anti Islamophobia organisation .

As France struggles to contain the coronavirus outbreak, President Macron himself has tested positive for the disease.
He’s still pushing ahead with some controversial measures – not least, a draft law to establish what’s described as French Islam.
It’s aimed at tackling radical Islamists, after several brutal killings this year.
Mr Macron says he wants Muslim leaders to acknowledge the values of the French republic, but Amnesty International says France is risking freedoms by shutting down an anti Islamophobia organisation.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--US to charge new Lockerbie bombing suspect, according to media reports

A new suspect in the Lockerbie bombing could soon face charges in the United States , according to media reports @ @ @ @ @ that US prosecutors are trying to seek the extradition of a Libyan man suspected of @ @ @ @ @ up the Pan Am passenger jet in 1988 , leaving 270 people dead .

A new suspect in the Lockerbie bombing could soon face charges in the United States, according to media reports.
It’s thought that US prosecutors are trying to seek the extradition of a Libyan man suspected of making the bomb which blew up the Pan Am passenger jet in 1988, leaving 270 people dead.
From Washington, Kate Fisher reports.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen speak as Brexit negotiations continue

Boris Johnson and the European Commision chief Ursula von der Leyen have been speaking by phone tonight to “ discuss @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit negotiations ” .
Although Number 10 has played down any suggestion that it @ @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson and the European Commision chief Ursula von der Leyen have been speaking by phone tonight to “discuss the state of play in the Brexit negotiations”.
Although Number 10 has played down any suggestion that it might mean a breakthrough.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--England’s secondary schools face staggered return next term

Secondary school students in England will not be starting the new term next year at the same time .
The @ @ @ @ @ to be taught online for the first week , so that schools can get prepared @ @ @ @ @ new tests are aimed at keeping transmission at a minimum .
But teaching unions say @ @ @ @ @ “ a confused and chaotic mess at the eleventh hour ” .

Secondary school students in England will not be starting the new term next year at the same time.
The government wants some of them to be taught online for the first week, so that schools can get prepared for mass testing.
The new tests are aimed at keeping transmission at a minimum.
But teaching unions say teachers have been landed with “a confused and chaotic mess at the eleventh hour”.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--Investigation claims PPE contracts went to companies with links to Tory party

In the desperate scramble to acquire scarce supplies of PPE , ventilators and Covid testing kits during the first wave @ @ @ @ @ government handed out hundreds of contracts worth billions of pounds .
An investigation carried out @ @ @ @ @ claims that much of that cash went to companies with links to the Conservative party @ @ @ @ @ experience in the field .

In the desperate scramble to acquire scarce supplies of PPE, ventilators and Covid testing kits during the first wave of the pandemic – the government handed out hundreds of contracts worth billions of pounds.
An investigation carried out by the New York Times claims that much of that cash went to companies with links to the Conservative party, or with no prior experience in the field.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--Local leaders disappointed as Greater Manchester remains in tier 3 Covid restrictions

In Greater Manchester , there ’ s huge disappointment that the strict Covid restrictions they have been living with for @ @ @ @ @ – even though infection rates have fallen significantly .
But there will be some extra @ @ @ @ @ by all the restrictions – the chancellor has extended the UK furlough scheme by another @ @ @ @ @ of April .

In Greater Manchester, there’s huge disappointment that the strict Covid restrictions they have been living with for months are not being changed – even though infection rates have fallen significantly.
But there will be some extra help for those hardest hit by all the restrictions – the chancellor has extended the UK furlough scheme by another month, to the end of April.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--Families on how they are scaling back Covid Christmas plans

After the Health Secretary Matt Hancock said it was vital for families to “ do the right thing ” this @ @ @ @ @ deciding to make it a very much scaled-back affair .
We ’ ve been speaking @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve suddenly changed their plans .

After the Health Secretary Matt Hancock said it was vital for families to “do the right thing” this Christmas – many people are deciding to make it a very much scaled-back affair.
We’ve been speaking to some of those who’ve suddenly changed their plans.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--Every five minutes two people catch Covid in Swansea, says executive medical director

There ’ s an immediate crisis facing Welsh hospitals as they struggle to deal with record numbers of patients being @ @ @ @ @ spoke to the executive medical director of the Swansea Bay Health Board , Dr Richard @ @ @ @ @ about the scale of the pressure hospitals in Swansea are under .

There’s an immediate crisis facing Welsh hospitals as they struggle to deal with record numbers of patients being admitted with Covid.
We spoke to the executive medical director of the Swansea Bay Health Board, Dr Richard Evans.
We asked him about the scale of the pressure hospitals in Swansea are under.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--People need to take ‘personal responsibility’ to prevent Covid spreading over Christmas, says Prof H

People need to take ‘personal responsibility’ to prevent Covid spreading over Christmas, says Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard

We spoke to Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard , chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges .
We started by asking @ @ @ @ @ NHS were under the most strain .

We spoke to Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard, chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges.
We started by asking her which parts of the NHS were under the most strain.


channel4uk--2020-12-17--Millions in east and south-east England to move into toughest Covid rules

More than two-thirds of England ’ s population will be living under the toughest coronavirus measures , as latest figures @ @ @ @ @ the rise in every region of the country except one .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock @ @ @ @ @ move yet more regions into Tier 3 , but the action was necessary amid “ @ @ @ @ @ NHS .
The latest UK figures show another 35,383 new coronavirus cases in the last @ @ @ @ @ leap compared to yesterday is down to an extra 11,000 cases which had gone unreported @ @ @ @ @ technical problem .
Another 532 deaths have been reported , taking the total to 66,052 @

More than two-thirds of England’s population will be living under the toughest coronavirus measures, as latest figures showed Covid cases are on the rise in every region of the country except one.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he regretted having to move yet more regions into Tier 3, but the action was necessary amid “significant pressure” on the NHS.
The latest UK figures show another 35,383 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours – the huge leap compared to yesterday is down to an extra 11,000 cases which had gone unreported in Wales due to a technical problem.
Another 532 deaths have been reported, taking the total to 66,052.