bbcuk--2020-09-29--Coronavirus: 'We have next to no income. There is no help for us'

Chancellor Rishi Sunak admitted last week that his latest coronavirus economic support package wo n't save all jobs .
But as employers and employees digest the latest plans it 's clear many of them feel viable firms are being hung out to dry just as the economy faces the impact of further lockdown measures .
The support plan , involving ending the furlough scheme and shifting more of the financial burden from the taxpayer and onto employers , has broad support from the CBI and TUC .
But many firms say the government has simply withdrawn a lifeline .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things just got worse .
'Companies like ours are hanging on by their fingertips' '' We have struggled all the way through - and now this , '' says an exasperated Sonia Hawkins .
`` We have done everything right and followed the rules .
But there is no help for us . ''
In 2019 , her family-run music and lighting equipment hire firm had its best year since it was set up as a mobile disco business in 1978 .
`` Now we 've had the rug pulled from under us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ furlough scheme ends on 31 October , the Treasury will instead subsidise people who worked at least a third of their usual hours .
`` We have next to no income .
We 've got people on furlough .
We would have to bring them back and pay them just to get a subsidy .
It 's nuts . ''
The company , Disco Equipment Hire , serves many areas that went into deep freeze during lockdown : big parties , weddings , conferences .
Sonia said that after the firm 's `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in expanding - new equipment and transport .
`` Luckily , we had enough money to survive during the lockdown , '' she said .
`` In June , we invoiced for just £50 . ''
A few weeks ago Sonia was hopeful that business was starting to pick up .
Now she fears that two more staff will have to go , in addition to the five already made redundant - leaving just the four family members plus an additional employee .
`` We were praying that the chancellor was going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grants , more furlough assistance .
`` Our bills do n't stop , '' she said .
`` Companies like ours are hanging on by their fingernails . ''
• ' I took a pay cut but at least I kept my job ’ 'There 's no work around .
I 'm not even getting responses' Maria - she did not want her surname disclosed - had already survived one round of redundancies at the large hotel where she works .
But Maria 's employer has just warned her job is at risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I 'm fearing the worse , '' says the sales manager .
`` My job was certainly viable .
I brought in the most revenues for the business . ''
`` The hotel manager has been trying to keep things afloat , '' she said .
`` But as everyone knows , people are n't going into the cities any more . ''
`` We 've gone from about 110 staff to 20 .
The people there are doing a bit of everything now - trying to keep things going with as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said everyone was banking on an extension to the furlough scheme : `` I think we all felt that it would be enough for help us through the next few months . ''
She 's still hoping for the best .
Maria has been at the hotel for four years , and with the group for 12 years .
`` They know my capabilities , that I 'm good at my job . ''
She 's hoping to hear about her future within the next week .
Even so , Maria has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for other jobs in sales and business management .
It 's been dispiriting : `` There 's no work around .
I 'm not even getting responses . ''
' A lot of our competitors have already gone into liquidation' After six months of zero income , events company KDM spotted signs of life in the sector in early September .
Business activity started to pick up , says manager Nicky Whyman .
Bookings in the first week of September were only 10 % of monthly activity pre-lockdown , but it was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evaporated after fresh lockdown measures .
She says : `` As the economy started to open up , we were gearing up for small events - socially distanced , indoors and outdoors .
But companies now say they can not commit to any in-person events until mid-2021 at the earliest . ''
That would mean 12-15 months of being unable to operate due to government restrictions .
The firm , which cut eight jobs earlier during lockdown , brought back the remaining 18 staff to work part-time this month .
`` But then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pilots of larger business events and would no longer look at reopening of conference centres and exhibitions .
`` When the furlough ends next month we are in the same situation as we were in April , except that there will no longer be government support for us or the wider events industry at all .
`` The way the government has structured the new support package means we are being asked to bring people back from furlough just so we can claim the [ pay ] subsidy - great in theory for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employers .
`` We are being asked to pay staff the necessary 55 % of their salaries for 33 % of working hours .
The numbers just do n't add up . ''
Founded in 1990 , KDM 's operations stretch from organising conferences to team-bonding experiences , working exclusively for the corporate market .
Its events can involve 2,000-plus people .
The firm is confident it can weather the storm , but things are tough .
`` We are using cash reserves to keep paying staff and not have to make staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drain the coffers . ''
She says the chancellor should have extended the furlough scheme for specific industries that are currently barred from operating .
`` It is difficult to see many viable companies surviving without targeted support . ''
Nicky says the events industry , worth £70bn to the economy , has proposed ways to operate safely , but is being ignored .
`` If the government would only work with us we could start to get business moving in a safe and secure manner .
A lot of companies within our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' • The women who started businesses in lockdown • Will Christmas celebrations be the same this year ?
'There are no jobs .
It 's terrifying' Lisa , on furlough since March , had been cautiously optimistic about returning to work over the next few weeks .
With Christmas coming , the events sales manager was expecting seasonal parties to bring in some business .
`` Now all the rules have been tightened I 'm not expecting to go back to work any time soon , '' she says .
Indeed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ever returning to her job .
`` Work has all but vanished for my work since Covid . ''
Lisa does not want to disclose her surname nor employer for fear of saying anything to jeopardise future work .
`` We have gone through a consultation period for redundancies .
I 've just no idea what is going to happen .
`` The latest jobs support scheme does nothing to help those of us on furlough .
I have been brought back one day a week , but what is happening now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me more days , '' Lisa adds .
She hopes her employer might allow her to take unpaid leave until March , but there has been no decision .
With her partner only working part-time after being furloughed , she worries about paying the bills and providing for her children .
`` It 's terrifying . ''
Domestic costs have been cut to a minimum .
When in jobs , they needed two cars for their work .
Now one sits on the driveway , uninsured because they ca n't afford the premium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the hospitality industry since she was 16 .
She says : `` I have a lot of experience and have been applying for other jobs .
I have searched and searched for different jobs since March .
But there 's nothing . ''
She 's not bitter , just scared about the future .
`` I can understand what Mr Sunak is trying to do [ to help the economy ] .
But it is so difficult for us .
He does n't seem to have done anything [ last week ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The government has said the new [ social distancing ] rules may be in place for six months .
In that case , they should have extended the furlough scheme for six months . ''
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• SUPPORT BUBBLES : What are they and who can be in yours ?
• FACE MASKS : When do I need to wear one ?
• SCHOOLS : What will happen if children catch coronavirus ?
• TESTING : What tests are available ?

Coronavirus: 'We have next to no income. There is no help for us' Published 30 September 2020
Image source, Sonia Hawkins Image caption, Sonia Hawkins says more jobs will now have to go
Chancellor Rishi Sunak admitted last week that his latest coronavirus economic support package won't save all jobs. But as employers and employees digest the latest plans it's clear many of them feel viable firms are being hung out to dry just as the economy faces the impact of further lockdown measures.
The support plan, involving ending the furlough scheme and shifting more of the financial burden from the taxpayer and onto employers, has broad support from the CBI and TUC. But many firms say the government has simply withdrawn a lifeline. The BBC spoke to four people who feel things just got worse.
'Companies like ours are hanging on by their fingertips'
"We have struggled all the way through - and now this," says an exasperated Sonia Hawkins. "We have done everything right and followed the rules. But there is no help for us."
In 2019, her family-run music and lighting equipment hire firm had its best year since it was set up as a mobile disco business in 1978. "Now we've had the rug pulled from under us," she says.
After the furlough scheme ends, the Treasury will instead subsidise people who worked at least a third of their usual hours.
"We have next to no income. We've got people on furlough. We would have to bring them back and pay them just to get a subsidy. It's nuts."
The company, Disco Equipment Hire, serves many areas that went into deep freeze during lockdown: big parties, weddings, conferences.
Sonia said that after the firm's "phenomenal" 2019, they invested heavily in expanding - new equipment and transport. "Luckily, we had enough money to survive during the lockdown," she said. "In June, we invoiced for just £50."
A few weeks ago Sonia was hopeful that business was starting to pick up. Now she fears that two more staff will have to go, in addition to the five already made redundant - leaving just the four family members plus an additional employee.
"We were praying that the chancellor was going to come out with something for us - grants, more furlough assistance.
"Our bills don't stop," she said. "Companies like ours are hanging on by their fingernails."
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Maria has just been told her hotel job is at risk of being cut
'There's no work around. I'm not even getting responses'
Maria - she did not want her surname disclosed - had already survived one round of redundancies at the large hotel where she works. But Maria's employer has just warned her job is at risk in a new round of cuts.
"I'm fearing the worse," says the sales manager. "My job was certainly viable. I brought in the most revenues for the business."
Maria works in a city-centre hotel - part of a big chain.
"The hotel manager has been trying to keep things afloat," she said. "But as everyone knows, people aren't going into the cities any more."
"We've gone from about 110 staff to 20. The people there are doing a bit of everything now - trying to keep things going with as few staff as possible."
Maria said everyone was banking on an extension to the furlough scheme: "I think we all felt that it would be enough for help us through the next few months."
She's still hoping for the best. Maria has been at the hotel for four years, and with the group for 12 years. "They know my capabilities, that I'm good at my job."
She's hoping to hear about her future within the next week. Even so, Maria has been firing off her CV in the search for other jobs in sales and business management.
It's been dispiriting: "There's no work around. I'm not even getting responses."
Image source, Nicky Whyman Image caption, Nicky Whyman says her firm can weather the crisis - but times are tough
'A lot of our competitors have already gone into liquidation'
After six months of zero income, events company KDM spotted signs of life in the sector in early September. Business activity started to pick up, says manager Nicky Whyman.
Bookings in the first week of September were only 10% of monthly activity pre-lockdown, but it was a sign for optimism. That has since evaporated after fresh lockdown measures.
She says: "As the economy started to open up, we were gearing up for small events - socially distanced, indoors and outdoors. But companies now say they cannot commit to any in-person events until mid-2021 at the earliest." That would mean 12-15 months of being unable to operate due to government restrictions.
The firm, which cut eight jobs earlier during lockdown, brought back the remaining 18 staff to work part-time this month. "But then the government announced it was scrapping the pilots of larger business events and would no longer look at reopening of conference centres and exhibitions.
"When the furlough ends next month we are in the same situation as we were in April, except that there will no longer be government support for us or the wider events industry at all.
"The way the government has structured the new support package means we are being asked to bring people back from furlough just so we can claim the [pay] subsidy - great in theory for employees, but illogical and expensive for employers.
"We are being asked to pay staff the necessary 55% of their salaries for 33% of working hours. The numbers just don't add up."
Founded in 1990, KDM's operations stretch from organising conferences to team-bonding experiences, working exclusively for the corporate market. Its events can involve 2,000-plus people. The firm is confident it can weather the storm, but things are tough.
"We are using cash reserves to keep paying staff and not have to make staff redundant. But we can't continually drain the coffers."
She says the chancellor should have extended the furlough scheme for specific industries that are currently barred from operating. "It is difficult to see many viable companies surviving without targeted support."
Nicky says the events industry, worth £70bn to the economy, has proposed ways to operate safely, but is being ignored. "If the government would only work with us we could start to get business moving in a safe and secure manner. A lot of companies within our sector have already gone into liquidation."
Image source, EPA Image caption, Lisa's firm was banking on a boost from Christmas and New Year celebrations
'There are no jobs. It's terrifying'
Lisa, on furlough since March, had been cautiously optimistic about returning to work over the next few weeks. With Christmas coming, the events sales manager was expecting seasonal parties to bring in some business.
"Now all the rules have been tightened I'm not expecting to go back to work any time soon," she says. Indeed, she's now not at all hopeful of ever returning to her job. "Work has all but vanished for my work since Covid."
Lisa does not want to disclose her surname nor employer for fear of saying anything to jeopardise future work. "We have gone through a consultation period for redundancies. I've just no idea what is going to happen.
"The latest jobs support scheme does nothing to help those of us on furlough. I have been brought back one day a week, but what is happening now gives my employer no incentive to give me more days," Lisa adds.
She hopes her employer might allow her to take unpaid leave until March, but there has been no decision.
With her partner only working part-time after being furloughed, she worries about paying the bills and providing for her children. "It's terrifying."
Domestic costs have been cut to a minimum. When in jobs, they needed two cars for their work. Now one sits on the driveway, uninsured because they can't afford the premium.
Aged 40, Lisa has worked in the hospitality industry since she was 16. She says: "I have a lot of experience and have been applying for other jobs. I have searched and searched for different jobs since March. But there's nothing."
She's not bitter, just scared about the future. "I can understand what Mr Sunak is trying to do [to help the economy]. But it is so difficult for us. He doesn't seem to have done anything [last week] that will help people like me.


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Covid rules: How much of the UK is now under some sort of lockdown?

New restrictions have been introduced in parts of north-east England , banning two households from mixing with each other indoors .
The prime minister apologised after he `` misspoke '' when answering a question on the new rules .
In the affected areas , people will no longer be allowed to mix with anyone outside their own household in any indoor setting ( although support bubbles are exempt ) .
In other words , you will be banned from going for a drink or a meal with someone you do n't live with , in a pub or restaurant .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ pub gardens or outdoor restaurant spaces will not be illegal but goes against advice .
The measure comes into force on Wednesday 30 September and affects County Durham , Gateshead , Newcastle , North Tyneside , South Tyneside , Northumberland and Sunderland .
Households in the region had already been advised to avoid mixing - including in homes - but the new ban will be enforced with fines .
Anyone over 18 found breaking the rules can be dispersed by police , or face fines starting at £200 and going up to £6,400 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools or workplaces .
The measures have been criticised for causing `` confusion '' because of a lack of detail .
When asked if people in the North East can still meet people from other households outside , such as in a pub garden , Mr Johnson said people should follow local guidance and urged them to use their common sense .
He went on to wrongly talk about the rule of six .
Which other areas have restrictions ?
The nature and extent of restrictions vary around the UK .
Some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ People can not mix in homes or gardens with anyone outside their household in Leeds , Wigan , Stockport or Blackpool • People in Merseyside , Warrington , Halton and the parts of Lancashire not already under tightened restrictions must not mix with people outside their household in homes or gardens .
Pubs and restaurants must shut at 22:00 BST • Residents in Bradford , Kirklees , Calderdale , Wolverhampton , Oadby and Wigston are banned from socialising with other people outside of their own households or support bubble in private homes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Sandwell are not allowed to mix with anyone they do not live with in their home or garden , unless they ’ re in their support bubble • Those in parts of Greater Manchester - including Salford , Bury , the City of Manchester and Oldham , are advised not to mix with those from outside their household or support bubble • Also in Greater Manchester , in Bolton , there are visitor limits on care homes , while hospitality venues will only be able to serve takeaways and must close between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Darwen and Pendle should not meet anyone from outside their household outdoors • In Leicester , people can not host anyone they do not live with in their home or garden , unless they ’ re in their support bubble • From 18:00 on Thursday , four council areas in north Wales - Conwy , Denbighshire , Flintshire , and Wrexham - will face the same restrictions as those in place in most of south Wales • New restrictions are now in force in Neath Port Talbot , Torfaen and Vale of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Merthyr Tydfil , Bridgend , Blaenau Gwent , Newport , Rhondda Cynon Taf and Caerphilly were already in local lockdowns • People should not enter or leave those areas without a reasonable excuse like going to work , unless you can do so from home , or school • Pubs and restaurants must close by 22:20 , but stop serving alcohol at 22:00 • People can not meet other households indoors , including members of extended households • People living in Glasgow city , East Renfrewshire , Renfrewshire , East Dunbartonshire , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lanarkshire are subject to small additional restrictions relating to care home and hospital visits , as well as contact tracing • Currently all parts of Northern Ireland have the same rules Further details on the measures in place and specific areas affected have been published by the governments for England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
How many people are under extra restrictions ?
In total , at least 16.6 million people are in local lockdowns in the UK - about one in four people .
• 12.4m people in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • 1.9m people in Wales ( 60 % ) - but from Thursday that will rise to 2.3m ( 73 % ) Currently , 65 % of northern England faces restrictions and 22 % of the Midlands .
When are new restrictions introduced in an area ?
There is no set level of infection that triggers this in a particular place , but if it posts more than 40 coronavirus cases per 100,000 people , it is likely that extra restrictions will be considered .
The number of infections is not the only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Northampton jumped to 125 per 100,000 in August .
But as the rise was almost entirely down to workers at a local factory no restrictions were introduced .
What are 'areas of concern ' ?
Since June , Public Health England has been publishing a weekly Covid-19 surveillance list .
This lists those local authority areas where incidence of the disease is rising , sorting them into three categories : • Areas of intervention - where restrictions or lockdowns are in place • Areas of enhanced support - where the local council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eg extra testing ) • Areas of concern - where the situation is being monitored closely , but no restrictions have been put in place On 25 September , all 33 London boroughs were listed as areas of concern .
How are these rules enforced ?
Local authorities in England have powers to : • Close specific premises ( such as shops , cafes and gyms ) • Shut outdoor spaces ( such as parks , playgrounds and beaches ) • Cancel events ( such as concerts , weddings and sporting events ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in local areas • Restrict the use of transport • What happens if I 'm in an area on the watchlist ?
• Caerphilly county to go under local lockdown Police have powers to make sure people stick to the restrictions .
For example , if they believe that somebody is staying away overnight , they can tell them to return home .
They can also fine people for breaking the rules , and may issue a `` prohibition notice '' directing somebody not to do something .
But if a resident from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bar in another part of the city , for example , there is nothing legally to stop them .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• SUPPORT BUBBLES : What are they and who can be in yours ?
• SYMPTOMS : What are they and how to guard against them ?
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?

Find out how the pandemic has affected your area and how it compares with the national average by following this link to an in depth guide to the numbers involved.


bbcuk--2020-09-29--Covid-19 survivor: 'Doctors said my son saved my life'

A mother-of-two who spent 45 days on a ventilator after contracting coronavirus has said her son saved her life by making her go to hospital .
Julia Brockway , 50 , from Glynneath , Neath Port Talbot , thought she had a chest infection when she became ill and just planned to rest on the sofa .
But her son David , 18 , ordered her go to Morriston Hospital where she spent over two months in intensive care .
Julia said : `` Doctors told me he saved my life '' .
Julia , who lost four stone ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ walk and eat , begged people to follow social distancing and lockdown rules .
`` When I see the crowds and the partying , it makes me feel horrified for them because they think it 's funny and it 's not , it 's a horrible disease , '' she said .
Julia became ill and , after her son insisted she go , she was admitted to hospital in Swansea on 27 March , before being taken to intensive care .
With her family not allowed to visit , doctors warned her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that she had less than a 10 % chance of survival .
She was placed on a ventilator for 45 days - and still remembers the moment she came round with all the medics around her .
`` You ca n't move your arms , you ca n't move your body , all of your body is quite still and it 's horrific , '' said Julia , mother to Chloe , 13 , and David , 18 .
`` They bring you around quietly with lovely little voices talking to you , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's OK , you 're with us ' .
• Figuring out the stats about Covid-19 in Wales • Tackling coronavirus 'down to every one of us' • Wales ' local coronavirus lockdowns : What are the rules ?
`` Maybe I 'm a survivor , but I have to put it down to the great team in intensive care ; the doctors , the consultants and all the staff saved my life . ''
Julia , who has suffered muscle wastage due to weeks of lying unconscious in a hospital bed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but needs help with daily tasks .
But she admits there were days after she was taken off the ventilator when she did not want to carry on .
`` The doctors , the nurses and my family are the heroes , '' she said .
`` They kept me going when I wanted to give up , I did n't want the pain in my legs .
I wanted to eat and walk , I wanted to shower like normal people .
`` They 're always pushing you to fight , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ husband David , a 51-year-old coach driver , said it was `` unbelievable '' she had survived .
`` I could n't be prouder of her , the strength she 's found to come through this virus , '' he said .
Now back at home , Julia has regular visits from physiotherapy technician Adam Fulham who also looked after her in the intensive therapy unit .
`` Julia was very poorly , she lost a lot of muscle , but she 's come on massively .
It brings a smile to everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's doing , '' he said .
But he said for many Covid-19 patients the psychological impact of the virus could be even more difficult than their physical recovery .
`` Sometimes there are a lot of tears , they just want to go home and get back to what they were doing , but starting to rebuild is a long process , '' he said .
Julia said she could not wait to regain her strength and was planning a short break with her family once lockdown restrictions were eased .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to avoid parties and to stick to social distancing rules .
`` I 'm not trying to frighten anyone .
Please listen to the guidelines , you might think it wo n't happen to you , but it happened to me , so what are the chances that it could happen to you ? ''

"I'm not trying to frighten anyone. Please listen to the guidelines, you might think it won't happen to you, but it happened to me, so what are the chances that it could happen to you?"


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Coronavirus doctor's diary: Trying out tech that may help make worship Covid-secure

A Bradford mosque is trying out new equipment designed to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
Dr John Wright , of the city 's Royal Infirmary , takes a look and finds out how other places of worship have been adapting to pandemic conditions .
He also hears about a trial in the US to test whether prayer can help Covid patients in intensive care .
It is a telling reflection on our society that the road to normality is lined with pubs , shops and restaurants .
When lockdown ended , the government 's priority was to get people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course businesses badly needed their support .
But it 's interesting that our economic health takes precedence , while our spiritual health remains optional .
The closure of churches , mosques and temples during lockdown left a gaping hole in many people 's lives , and their re-opening has brought a welcome return of both religious and social connectedness , particularly for older people .
We know from the dark days of the peak of the pandemic that religious settings hosted some of the super-spreading events that fed the transmission of infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
After the lifting of lockdowns , churches have been the source of outbreaks in South Korea and the US .
So the re-opening of places of worship remains a challenge , and it 's one they have had to face without financial help from the Chancellor .
I visited one of Bradford 's mosques with my good friend Zulfi Karim , who , as well as being the president of the city 's Council for Mosques , is a Covid-19 survivor - and only just .
He picked up the virus right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a relentless and gruelling illness followed by a lingering debilitation that has lasted over six months .
The al-Markaz ul Islami mosque , based in a converted mill , is a focal point for the local Muslim community as well as a spiritual home .
Like all other mosques in the city , it closed down during lockdown and its congregation adapted to praying at home .
With the lifting of lockdown , the imam recognised the importance of providing a safe space for his congregation and worked with two local GPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to create a Covid-secure place of worship .
They showed me how they have redesigned the mosque with the latest technology to screen for fevers and check that face masks are being worn .
An airport-style security booth sprays a mist to disinfect all visitors and a clever ventilation system checks the purity and circulation of the air .
`` In the lockdown people were praying at home , but there are certain prayers that are only valid if they 're in congregation , like Friday prayer .
Our numbers are now restricted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of our normal capacity given the restrictions .
We have many more people wanting to come than we can accommodate , '' Zulfi tells me .
Since early July , an online booking system has been in place .
When people walk through the door , the new equipment instantly measures their body temperature and anyone with a fever is guided to a quarantine room where they can be checked again , imam Muhammad Ishtiaq tells me .
Those whose temperature is normal proceed to a sanitising station , and from there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are markings on the floor at one metre distances .
The equipment was generously donated by a company called P4 Technology and the mosque will trial it for a year .
`` If the technology allows us , and it 's been approved , we are hoping that we will be allowed to take the face masks off and stand side by side , '' the imam says .
`` If it benefits us , we want all other religions and groups to be able to benefit from it , '' adds Dr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a doctor and epidemiologist , is head of the Bradford Institute for Health Research , and a veteran of cholera , HIV and Ebola epidemics in sub-Saharan Africa .
He is writing this diary for BBC News and recording from the hospital wards for BBC Radio .
• Listen to the next episode of The NHS Front Line on BBC Sounds or the BBC World Service • Or read the previous online diary entry : Will universities be able to avoid spreading the virus ?
At the Sikh temple on Leeds Road , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that worshippers are wearing face masks .
People have been encouraged to remain at a distance of two metres and singers have been located behind glass screens .
Earlier this month , though , someone who 'd attended the temple tested positive for Covid-19 and all those present on the same day had to self-isolate for two weeks .
The Bishop of Bradford , Toby Howarth , tells me that communion in the cathedral is now very different .
Only the priest can receive the wine ; the priest then walks down the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's hand , disinfecting his or her own hands every time .
In some churches , services are held online , or worshippers can watch a recorded sermon and then go to their church for communion .
`` Then there are other places that deliver the liturgy to people 's houses , and everyone says the liturgy at the same time every week , knowing that everyone else is saying the same thing , '' Bishop Toby says .
`` So there is this sense that even if I ca n't see you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same time - and almost with a heightened awareness of people saying it because they 're not in the same building . ''
One lovely example of where religion and science have come together in the hope of fighting Covid-19 is in Kansas , in the US , where doctors and religious leaders are carrying out a trial of prayer for Covid-19 patients in intensive care .
This is no Mickey Mouse trial either .
A double blind , randomised controlled trial of 1,000 patients , trials do n't get much more scientifically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that most patients would be a little concerned if on the morning ward round their doctors dropped to their knees and started calling out for God 's intercession .
It certainly would n't fill you with optimism .
In this trial , however , the prayer is done remotely - a universal prayer from five denominations ( Christianity , Hinduism , Islam , Judaism and Buddhism ) with the control group just getting standard medical care .
We are constantly searching for more effective treatments , so let 's wait and see whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @

"Then there are other places that deliver the liturgy to people's houses, and everyone says the liturgy at the same time every week, knowing that everyone else is saying the same thing," Bishop Toby says. "So there is this sense that even if I can't see you, we are doing it at the same time - and almost with a heightened awareness of people saying it because they're not in the same building."


bbcuk--2020-09-29--Covid in Scotland: How amateur musicians have adapted

Before Covid-19 , thousands of people across Scotland would spend their spare time performing with amateur music groups .
Like so many other activities , that was brought to a halt by the pandemic in March .
With a limited Proms taking place and Scottish Opera and the RSNO performing again , professional musicians are now taking small steps forward .
But what has life been like for the amateur performers ?
`` You are as close to the people at band as you are to your family , '' says Charlie Farren .
`` To not be with them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charlie is the chairman of Whitburn Band , one of Scotland 's top brass bands .
This year marks its 150th anniversary .
Covid restrictions means Charlie is not playing with bands for the first time in 40 years .
`` We had a massive schedule planned for the entire year .
Overnight , it was all gone and it cost the band thousands of pounds . ''
An estimated 2,500 people play with brass bands in Scotland .
I am one of them , as a member of the Whitburn Band .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Edinburgh International Festival and Celtic Connections and millions have heard the band play the national anthems at Scotland 's rugby internationals .
With all events cancelled , Whitburn has turned to virtual performances .
These have attracted more than 127,000 views and raised more than £1,200 for West Lothian Foodbank .
The band has also received help through a grant from the Scottish government , part of a package of financial support available to the creative sector .
Current restrictions for non-professional musicians mean that - with one specific exception - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ households can play or sing together outdoors .
Whitburn has 30 playing members from almost as many households .
All the rehearsals and most of the engagements take place indoors .
Another barrier is a concern that playing a wind instrument or singing could spread Covid-19 via `` aerosol and droplets '' if a performer was close to others - an issue which has severely disrupted some music teaching in schools .
Charlie said he would like Scotland 's brass bands to be treated the same as professionals - who can play indoors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fears that if things do n't change in the near future , some will not emerge from Covid .
Folky MacFolk Face was formed in 2016 after an impromptu performance at Jackie Mullen 's home .
Since then , the band has performed at Celtic Connections and on STV .
The four-piece group did meet up and play together when lockdown eased as they come from three households and do n't have to sing .
But with the restrictions on households returning , the band are back to waiting again .
2020 was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the group - the first time Folky would have played abroad , in Galicia and China .
`` Lockdown was a real disappointment , '' said Jackie .
`` But we decided we would try and make lemonade out the lemons and we had to do something . ''
Their online version of Fisherman 's Blues by The Waterboys was shared by Mike Scott himself , giving Folky many new fans .
Jackie added : `` Lockdown gave us an opportunity to do something that we might not have done .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been challenging , certainly for musicians , but we have tried to make the best out of it . ''
The band is now keenly awaiting the time when restrictions on meeting other households can be eased once more .
The Harmony Choir in Edinburgh started out in 2016 as part of a University of Edinburgh project to study the effects of choirs on mental health .
Since then , it has appeared at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe , charity fundraisers and in a BBC documentary about Gail Porter and the TV presenter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of communities all over Scotland .
They usually attract a large membership , with some having more than 70 singers .
The Harmony Choir has about 40 singers .
Musical director Ben Jones says : `` I think the choir has helped people enormously .
It has gone from being something they had never considered doing to something that is the centrepiece of their lives .
`` It gives them focus .
It gives them companionship . ''
The end of face-to-face rehearsals came quickly as the virus spread in the spring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sanitiser .
By the next , lockdown .
`` We figured out what we could do , and could n't do , and we started to focus on what we could do together , '' sys Ben .
Harmony continue to rehearse together , over Zoom , every Monday night and have also released some online performances .
Like other large ensembles , they face a potentially long wait before a return .
Ben accepts that they have to `` grin and bear it '' as Scotland deals with this unprecedented challenge - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been going for millennia , and there have been pandemics before , '' he said .
`` We will get through this . ''
Light at the end of the tunnel ?
In the last week , the Scottish government updated guidance for performers that was originally published on 24 August .
In it , they state non-professional musicians participating in an outdoor activity organised by a business or charity can play or sing with mitigating measures in place , with the organisers liable for keeping everyone safe .
The government clarified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not have to adhere to the two-household rule if this organised outdoor activity was a socially distanced seated event , followed Covid guidance on events and performing arts , and did n't take place in hospitality areas such as beer gardens .
Ensembles - both large and small - could therefore perform outdoors in this very specific context .
With cases rising , and further lockdown restrictions recently imposed across Scotland , it remains to be seen if this outdoor event exception will make any practical difference for the majority of non-professional musicians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be seen if it means - even in a limited capacity - that the show can go on for some .
• IMPACT : How is the pandemic affecting life in Scotland ?
• CASES : Where are the latest cases in Scotland ?
• QUIZ : How well do you know the Covid restrictions ?
• BACK TO SCHOOL : Can a school insist on a Covid test ?
• LOCKDOWN EASING : What changes next - and when ?

Musical director Ben Jones says: "I think the choir has helped people enormously. It has gone from being something they had never considered doing to something that is the centrepiece of their lives.


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Maritime life around the coast of Britain

The Shipwrecked Mariners ' Society charity has announced the winners of its annual photography competition .
The competition received more @ @ @ @ @ from both amateur and professional photographers , who set out to capture the essence of @ @ @ @ @ , with its merchant ships , fishermen , coasts , ports and harbours .
The @ @ @ @ @ Laurence Hartwell and shows trawlers with their catches at the fish market in Newlyn , @ @ @ @ @ The judges felt it `` symbolised the fishermen , logistics and transport workers who continue @ @ @ @ @ and day for our benefit , and especially in a year where our reliance on @ @ @ @ @ has been highlighted even further . ''
The charity encouraged people to look back through @ @ @ @ @ archive images to avoid unnecessary travel due to the Covid-19 pandemic .
Here is a @ @ @ @

The judges felt it "symbolised the fishermen, logistics and transport workers who continue to work tirelessly through night and day for our benefit, and especially in a year where our reliance on the maritime and fishing industries has been highlighted even further."


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Newspaper headlines: PM 'hasn't a clue' and 1m missed breast cancer scans

The front pages of the Daily Mail , theandcarry the estimate from a cancer charity that as many as one @ @ @ @ @ have missed out on breast cancer screening during lockdown .
Breast Cancer Now fears that @ @ @ @ @ could result in thousands of deaths .
The leading cancer expert , Prof Karol Sikora @ @ @ @ @ Mirror that the UK can not afford a second backlog over the winter months .
@ @ @ @ @ disaster that would take many years to recover from , '' he warns .

Quentin Letts in the Times offers his analysis of the new BBC director general, Tim Davie, after his appearance before the Commons Culture committee. "Davie is a Mr Fit, geezerish, estuarine, full of marketing zing", he writes. "He is definitely one of life's Tims. Matey. I quite liked him". He adds that Mr Davie is at least not in denial about the "radioactive problems" he faces. The Daily Express predicts he needs to "pursue value for money with a new urgency" and consider an alternative to the licence fee. It adds that "it would be cruel" to demand payment from the over-75s if there's a second lockdown.


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Covid-19: Government 'must explain new lockdown rules better'

New local lockdown restrictions need to be `` communicated better '' by the government , a police and crime commissioner ( PCC ) has said .
Households in the north-east of England are now banned from mixing indoors , including in pubs .
But councils were not given advance warning of the announcement , according to Northumbria 's PCC Kim McGuinness .
And she said the prime minister had added to confusion by not being able to accurately explain the new rules .
`` Locally the communications methods were n't stood up to be able to back up what was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme .
`` What I would ask government to do is to be better at communicating in advance of these local restrictions but also communicating with residents the reason why we need to be doing this . ''
The Department of Health and Social Care ( DHSC ) said it had worked `` closely with local leaders and public health teams to inform decisions on local interventions '' .
• What are the north-east England Covid-19 measures ?
It was not initially clear if the new law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spaces and junior minister Gillian Keegan was unable to clarify when asked on Tuesday .
The DHSC subsequently confirmed it is not illegal for households to mix in these places , but warned this is contrary to advice .
Gateshead Council 's public health director Alice Wiseman said she had hoped the outdoor mixing rules would go further .
`` We were of the understanding locally that it was going to be something that was put into regulation so therefore you are n't allowed to do it , '' she said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aware that actually it was very confusing , the messages around whether you could meet somebody in a public setting but you could n't go in to see your parents for dinner . ''
The new law applies to about two million people in Newcastle , Northumberland , Gateshead , North Tyneside , South Tyneside , Sunderland and the County Durham council area , even when they go outside these areas .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• SUPPORT BUBBLES : What are they and who can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will I be kept safe at work ?
• SOCIAL LIFE : The rules when I go to the pub ?
• LOCAL LOCKDOWNS : What happens if you have one ?
Fines for non-compliance start at £200 for a first offence , increasing on subsequent offences to a maximum £6,400 .
Ms McGuinness said police would `` enforce if absolutely necessary '' the new regulations but stressed that `` compliance in general is very high '' across the force area .
However , Rothbury councillor Steven Bridgett has said `` one size @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for his part of Northumberland .
In a letter to Northumberland 's director of public health Liz Morgan he said it was becoming `` increasingly difficult to justify these restrictions on such a blanket approach '' .
The new rules are `` being driven by the high infection rates in places like Sunderland , Tyneside and South East Northumberland '' , which are different from areas like Rothbury `` where I have more sheep than residents '' , Mr Bridgett said .
Follow BBC North East & Cumbria on Twitter , Facebook and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ northeastandcumbria @ bbc.co.uk .

"It was previously guidance but we were aware that actually it was very confusing, the messages around whether you could meet somebody in a public setting but you couldn't go in to see your parents for dinner."


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Covid 19: Five staff members and one patient test positive at RVH

One patient and five members of staff at a cardiology ward in Belfast 's Royal Victoria Hospital have tested positive for Covid-19 , BBC News NI has learnt .
It is understood the staff received the positive test results over the past fortnight and testing is ongoing .
The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust confirmed the outbreak .
The Trust also said one patient was self-isolating but that no one was currently off work as a result of the cluster .
Last week , Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride wrote to all healthcare staff advising them how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals and elsewhere .
He wrote : `` It is extremely challenging to maintain our guard at all times and this may inadvertently result in lapses in maintaining the recommended precautions in social interactions and other settings across our health and care facilities .
`` It is therefore particularly important that we all remain vigilant in areas such as changing rooms , staff rooms , dining rooms and as they engage in conversations or interact in corridors and other settings when they are not engaged in direct patient facing activities . ''
Last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of staff on an elderly stroke and rehabilitation ward at Altnagelvin Hospital had tested positive for Covid .
Eighteen were self-isolating , but none of the 23 patients on the ward had contracted the virus .
The Ambulance Service also confirmed that 10 of its workers in Craigavon , County Armagh , had tested positive after a golf trip to the Republic of Ireland .
It said six others had been advised to self-isolate .
The news comes after 320 cases were confirmed in Northern Ireland on Tuesday , the highest daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rolled out .
In total 11,269 cases of Covid-19 have been diagnosed in Northern Ireland since the pandemic began - 15 % of those have been recorded in the past week .
Three of the highest daily numbers have been confirmed in the past five days .
Previously , the 319 cases documented on Saturday and the 273 on Friday had set new records for the daily change in case numbers .
There are currently eight patients in intensive care wards .
In a media briefing to journalists , Prof Ian Young said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland could have 1,000 new cases a day in a month 's time .
He said Northern Ireland is currently averaging 250 cases a day and the number of Covid-19 patients in hospital is doubling every 13 days .
In a month , he said that would equate to 200 patients in hospital with the disease .
Prof Young said that in the peak of the first wave of the coronavirus , we had about 300 Covid patients in hospital , but he warned we could pass that within six weeks if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the desired effect .
Meanwhile , the police have told Good Morning Ulster that they have not fined anyone for breaching the rules over wearing face coverings .
To date 15 people have been issued with a £1,000 fine for breach of the international travel regulations .
Police have said the enforcement of face masks is not specifically an arrestable offence but that those who choose to breach the health regulations may be subject to a fine .
`` We will continue to support compliance with the government regulations by engaging , explaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choices and this includes the mandatory wearing of face coverings in stores , '' a spokesperson said .
`` We will only enforce where necessary . ''
The SDLP 's Dolores Kelly , who is on the Policing Board , said enforcement was not only the responsibility of the police .
`` Clearly the executive need to give greater clarity to both the police and other agencies around who they expect to enforce it and to get that level of consistency right across the north , '' she said .

"If a circuit breaker could be brought in around the Halloween break it would get us around having to close schools - but what we're seeing in regards the advance of cases is whether we can wait until then."


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Covid-19: Royal Glamorgan Hospital cuts services as cases rise

Planned surgeries have been temporarily stopped at a hospital in a bid to deal with a rise in coronavirus cases .
Patients who would usually be taken to A & E at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant in an emergency will also be sent elsewhere as part of the plan .
The hospital in Rhondda Cynon Taf , one of the areas in Wales under a local lockdown , has 82 cases linked to transmission on the site .
The temporary measures come into force at 14:00 BST on Wednesday .
• Covid-19 in Wales : What do the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of urgent cancer surgeries will remain at the Royal Glamorgan , while its A & E department will stay open for walk-in patients , but the Tirion birthing centre will be closed until 5 October .
Emergencies will be taken to Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend , Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil or the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff .
The latest move follows two wards being closed last week .
Paul Mears , chief executive of Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board , said : `` We recognise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause and would like to assure our patients and communities that managing this outbreak is our key priority .
`` Our teams continue to work to take all necessary measures to achieve this and we have taken range of swift and decisive actions to try to manage this outbreak . ''
The hospital which serves some of the communities worst affected by the recent resurgence in Covid-19 cases is itself going into a form of lockdown .
Last week the health board said it had closed two wards within the Royal Glamorgan Hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 34 cases .
But that proved not to be enough , and bosses have decided much more drastic measures are needed .
In a way what 's happened in the Royal Glamorgan , is a local version of the decision taken across Wales in March to suspend pretty much all non-urgent NHS treatments .
Then it was about clearing the decks in anticipation of the first wave .
Now , this local decision is to minimise the number of patients potentially at risk of exposed in a hospital which has become hotspot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this might be could determine how likely we are to see more general restrictions in the NHS in the coming months .
Either way this is a very worrying time for patients .
Pontypridd MP Alex Davies-Jones and Member of Senedd Mick Antoniw issued a joint statement saying they were `` extremely concerned '' by the outbreak at the hospital .
`` Sadly , this outbreak is a reflection of the increase in Covid-19 infections in Rhondda Cynon Taf generally and we understand that local people will be very concerned about this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are seeking an urgent meeting with the health board to discuss its plan to stabilise the situation and to ensure that the impact on those who were scheduled to have surgery and other treatments is minimised . ''
Plaid Cymru Rhondda MS , Leanne Wood said : `` This is deeply concerning news , as is the rise in infection figures for the Royal Glamorgan .
`` I know many people who have been waiting for medical procedures who have already had them cancelled - and so this news is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
She said the loss of A & E would be a cause of concern as people would have to travel further , adding : `` We need to get the situation at our hospital under control and all the stops need to be pulled out to get there . ''
Conservative health spokesman Andrew RT Davies said the spike was `` very concerning '' and questions over processes and protocols must be asked .
`` However , on the face of it , the situation at the Royal Glamorgan seems like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hospital in July .
`` At the time , the health minister admitted that the situation could have been managed better .
We had hoped that lessons would have been learnt , but it appears they were not . ''
Mr Davies urged the Welsh Government to use field hospitals to help alleviate the pressure on the hospital , and to protect patients and staff .

She said the loss of A&E would be a cause of concern as people would have to travel further, adding: "We need to get the situation at our hospital under control and all the stops need to be pulled out to get there."


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Georgina Gharsallah: Sussex Police refers itself to watchdog

A police force which admitted failings during its investigation into a woman 's disappearance has referred itself to the police watchdog .
Georgina Gharsallah was last seen in Worthing , West Sussex , in March 2018 .
A murder inquiry began in August 2019 .
Sussex Police has been accused of `` significant failings '' over the way it handled the disappearance of the 30-year-old , who has never been found .
The Independent Office of Police Conduct will now look into the case .
An IOPC spokesman confirmed the watchdog had received a voluntary complaint referral from Sussex Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gharsallah .
He said : `` In order to fully assess the complaint referral , the IOPC has requested additional documentation from Sussex Police .
`` Once we have received the extra information , we will then thoroughly assess all the material in order to determine the level , if any , of our involvement . ''
Key CCTV footage was not reviewed for more than a year , while nine `` potentially '' significant sections of footage were lost , the family have said .
Sussex Police admitted there had been `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CCTV evidence was handled , which had resulted in some footage being `` lost to the investigation '' .
It was `` impossible to say , with any certainty , whether or not this would have made a tangible difference to the progress of the investigation , '' a force spokesman said .

"Once we have received the extra information, we will then thoroughly assess all the material in order to determine the level, if any, of our involvement."


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Covid: UK at 'critical moment' with coronavirus - PM

New measures to tackle the increase in coronavirus cases `` will take time to feed through '' , Boris Johnson says .
The prime minister told a No 10 briefing the UK was at a `` critical moment '' and the rising number of cases and deaths shows `` why our plan is so essential '' .
He said he would `` not hesitate '' to impose further restrictions if needed .
Chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said : `` We do n't have this under control at the moment . ''
`` There 's no cause for complacency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It comes as the latest UK coronavirus figures showed there have been a further 7,108 cases and another 71 deaths .
Last week , Mr Johnson introduced restrictions including a 10pm closing time for pubs , bars and restaurants in England , with similar announcements in Scotland and Wales , and a 15-person limit on weddings .
Since then , further local lockdowns have come into force , including in north-east England , where households are banned from mixing indoors .
• How have the rules on meeting friends changed ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 've no regrets' At the press conference at Downing Street , Mr Johnson also said the nation could face the winter `` with confidence '' because it was now better prepared than in March .
The preparations include being on track for 500,000 tests a day by the end of October , 2,000 beds in seven Nightingale hospitals and a four-month supply of protective equipment ( PPE ) such as masks , gowns and visors .
He said they had trebled the number of ventilators in the NHS to 31,500 in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 patients in mechanical ventilator beds as of Tuesday , the government said , and 2,252 in hospital , as reported on Monday .
'Will the second wave be less severe ? '
It is now clear the second wave is here .
Infections , hospital cases and deaths are all rising .
But what happens next is the big unknown .
The doomsday scenario of a doubling of cases every week that was put forward last week is not materialising .
The increase in hospital admissions is even more gradual - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 10 times lower than they were at the peak .
It points to a slower , less severe wave this time round .
But it is still early days .
We are just at the start of the autumn and winter period when respiratory viruses circulate more .
However , the UK , like other countries , is in a much stronger position than we were when we walked blind into the first wave .
Better treatments are in place , social distancing has become routine and - despite the problems - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The odds are certainly stacked in our favour more than they were six months ago .
Mr Johnson also thanked `` everyone for the fantastic national effort that we are seeing '' .
`` No matter how impatient we may be , how fed up we may become , there is only one way of doing this , and that 's by showing a collective forbearance , common sense and willingness to make sacrifices for the safety of others , '' he said .
Mr Johnson paid particular tribute to university students , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-isolate , and are `` experiencing a first term back at university unlike anything they could have imagined '' .
• What 's the new socialising rule the PM 'misspoke ' about ?
• What are the rules when I go to the pub ?
Plans were being put in place to allow students home safely for Christmas , the prime minister promised .
He urged people to use the NHS Test and Trace app , saying it had reached 14 million downloads .
He also said he would resume providing regular Downing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was prepared to take `` more costly '' action against the virus if necessary .
`` If we put in the work together now , then we give ourselves the best possible chance of avoiding that outcome and avoiding further measures , '' he said .
England 's chief medical officer Prof Chris Whitty told the press conference that the number of Covid-19 patients was rising , especially in hotspots , although they remained lower than in early April .
In London , the north-east and north-west of England there was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people admitted to intensive care , he said .
`` We are pointing out that the direction of travel for both hospitals and intensive care is going in the wrong direction , particularly in these areas that have seen rapid increases in cases , '' he said .
`` We have got a long winter ahead of us . ''
• LOCAL LOCKDOWNS : What happens if you have one ?
• QUARANTINE : Who must self-isolate after arriving in the UK • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they and who can be in yours ?
Prof Whitty said the pattern of cases was `` rather different '' in the second wave , with a `` heavy concentration '' of infections in areas such as the the Midlands , as well north-east and north-west England , alongside the general rise in Covid-19 .
He said cases were increasing `` quite rapidly '' among older teenagers and under-21s , but the rate of transmission among school-age children was not changing very much .
The government has faced criticism in recent days over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus measures and the complexity of the changing rules .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said there had to be `` a national effort to prevent a second lockdown '' .
But he said the government was not fulfilling its role of providing a `` very clear strategy '' , instead offering `` confusion '' .
Sir Keir said there needed to be an `` urgent review '' of local restrictions , as they had now been imposed in 48 areas and only lifted in one - Luton .
A third of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ form of local coronavirus rules when new measures come into effect in four more local council areas in Wales on Thursday .
The prime minister , who on Tuesday apologised for misstating the rules in the North East , admitted there could be complexities but defended the local approach .
`` The best thing I can tell you is that everybody in the North East or elsewhere , in Merseyside , the Midlands , everywhere there are local restrictions , get on the websites , look at precisely what you 're supposed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CORONAVIRUS - YOUR STORIES : Extraordinary experiences from around the world ; how Covid-19 has changed our lives • LITTLE MIX START THE SEARCH : The girls are on the hunt for global superstars

"No matter how impatient we may be, how fed up we may become, there is only one way of doing this, and that's by showing a collective forbearance, common sense and willingness to make sacrifices for the safety of others," he said.


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Coronavirus: MPs promised vote on new rules 'wherever possible'

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has promised MPs votes `` wherever possible '' on England or UK-wide coronavirus rules before they come into force .
But he warned that some urgent regulations could not be held up .
It follows concern from Tory MPs over a lack of parliamentary scrutiny , while the Commons Speaker warned the government against treating Parliament with `` contempt '' .
MPs voted to extend the coronavirus powers by 330 votes to 24 .
Mr Hancock was speaking in the House of Commons ahead of a vote on a motion that will extend the Coronavirus Act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grants extensive powers to the authorities to tackle Covid , such as closing schools and stopping mass gatherings .
Addressing MPs , the health secretary said : `` I am sure that no member of this House would want to limit the government 's ability to take emergency action in the national interest as we did in March .
`` And we will continue to involve the House in scrutinising our decisions in the way the prime minister set out last week , with regular statements and debates and the ability for members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more regularly .
`` And I hope the new arrangements will be welcomed on all sides of the House and I will continue to listen to colleagues ' concerns , as I 've tried my best to do so throughout . ''
Sir Graham Brady , chair of the 1922 committee of backbench Conservative MPs , had been pushing for MPs to have more of a say over restrictions introduced to tackle the virus .
He welcomed Mr Hancock 's announcement saying : `` We are grateful that he and other members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proper scrutiny in this place and the benefits that can bring to better government as well . ''
Asked by a former Conservative chief whip Mark Harper for clarity on which new rules MPs would be allowed to vote on , Mr Hancock said `` I hope over the weeks to come we will demonstrate through our actions and what we bring forward that we are true to this commitment , which essentially will become a new convention . ''
Other Conservatives expressed frustration with the government .
Sir Charles Walker said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` just not good enough '' while Sir Bernard Jenkin warned that `` the prime minister can not lead his parliamentary party unless he has their consent '' .
Labour 's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said : `` We recognised that the government , in a pandemic , any government needs extraordinary powers available , and why with a heavy heart today , facing this highly unsatisfactory situation of an all or nothing motion , we will not be blocking its passage today . ''
However , the Liberal Democrats have said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Act because of the power it gave ministers to `` reduce rights '' for carers .
Seven Conservatives and six Labour MPs also voted against the motion .
• Hancock pressured to give MPs say over Covid rules Dozens of Tory MPs backed an amendment to the motion by Sir Graham calling for future regulations affecting the whole of England only to be introduced if Parliament has the opportunity to debate and vote on them in advance .
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle did not select the amendment explaining that any amendment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legality of the Act , and potentially opened it up to court challenge .
However he told MPs : `` The way in which the government has exercised its powers to make secondary legislation during this crisis has been totally unsatisfactory .
`` All too often important statutory instruments have been published a matter of hours before they come into force and some explanations as to why important measures have come into effect before they can be laid before this House has been unconvincing and shows a total disregard for the House .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking to the government to rebuild trust with the House not treat it with the contempt it has shown '' .
Responding to Sir Lindsay Hoyle 's criticism , the prime minister 's spokesman said the government was `` looking at further ways to involve parliament in the process in advance '' .

Asked by a former Conservative chief whip Mark Harper for clarity on which new rules MPs would be allowed to vote on, Mr Hancock said "I hope over the weeks to come we will demonstrate through our actions and what we bring forward that we are true to this commitment, which essentially will become a new convention."


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Patients left 'in limbo' by NHS virus response

The stress and anxiety caused to patients by `` poor communication '' from NHS bodies in England during the Covid pandemic has been criticised by MPs .
While recognising the huge burden placed on the NHS , their report said cancelled treatments and surgery had left some `` in limbo '' and others `` too scared '' to seek medical help .
The report also questioned why weekly testing of NHS staff had not yet begun .
And it called for their mental and physical wellbeing to be supported .
Jeremy Hunt , who chairs the Health and Social Care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ praised the `` heroic contribution '' made by front-line NHS staff during the pandemic , which had saved many lives .
But he said the pandemic had `` massively impacted normal NHS services '' .
And this situation could have been improved with clearer communication to patients and better infection control measures in hospitals .
The report , based on evidence from doctors , nurses , patient groups and NHS leaders , said the case for routine testing for all NHS staff in all parts of the country was `` compelling '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as possible before winter to help reduce the spread of the virus .
The government and NHS England told the committee they wanted to bring in routine testing of staff but any plans depended on the capacity available .
The report also called for NHS bosses to take urgent action to tackle the huge backlog of appointments in all areas - from cancer to mental health , elective surgery and dentistry .
Despite assurances from NHS England chief executive Sir Simon Stevens in March that cancer operations and routine care would continue , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disrupted '' .
And this was causing emotional distress to some patients who did not know when appointments might take place , particularly those with life-threatening conditions .
One NHS patient waiting for cancer treatment told the inquiry she `` fell into a hole '' where she had been `` absolutely in limbo '' .
`` I did not know and I had no communication about when the chemotherapy might start , '' she said .
`` I am a single mum with teenagers at home .
`` My absolute priority is to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell you how difficult that limbo period has been . ''
• One million UK women may have missed breast scans • Pandemic could cause thousands more cancer deaths One estimate suggests delays for patients needing screening , tests and treatment for cancer could lead to thousands of avoidable deaths within a year .
And the report set out a to-do list for the government and NHS bosses : • Explain why weekly testing of NHS staff has not yet been introduced • Address the impact of a backlog of appointments and long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out how demand for services will be met • Communicate with patients better about any delays to their treatment • Ensure a reliable supply of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to all NHS staff before winter • Tackle racism and promote diversity in the NHS • Support the mental and physical wellbeing of staff • Make sure dentists are able to continue working The MPs are worried a lack of dental care during the pandemic has led to a backlog of patients with toothache and infections needing surgery .
Many dentists say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dentistry effectively ceased to exist under lockdown , '' Eddie Crouch , who chairs the British Dental Association , said .
`` And we are still a long way from normal service levels . ''
Commenting on the report , the Health Foundation said weekly testing of NHS staff - even if possible - was `` only one part of the equation '' .
`` Social distancing , use of PPE and other measures to maintain Covid-free zones within hospitals will be needed alongside this , '' assistant director for policy Ruth Thorlby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS will be operating with reduced capacity as we approach the winter months .
`` And there may need to be difficult decisions made about what services to prioritise .
`` The government needs to ensure that both the NHS and social-care services get the funding they need over the next few months , to help reduce waiting times , keep non-Covid services running and make sure that no patients lose out on care . ''
• LOCAL LOCKDOWNS : What happens if you have one ?
• QUARANTINE : Who must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• SUPPORT BUBBLES : What are they and who can be in yours ?

"The government needs to ensure that both the NHS and social-care services get the funding they need over the next few months, to help reduce waiting times, keep non-Covid services running and make sure that no patients lose out on care."


bbcuk--2020-10-01--Covid-19: Funding crisis threatens zoos' vital conservation work

Zoos ' vital conservation work is being put at risk by a Covid-related funding crisis .
Breeding programmes to rescue rare species may have to be cancelled , with many zoos facing the biggest cash crisis in their history .
The body that represents British zoos says a government rescue package is inaccessible for most of its members .
Only one zoo has claimed successfully , the BBC has learned .
Zoos face huge income losses due to lockdown and reduced visitor numbers .
Ultimately , this will impact on their ability to care for species which are the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now found only in zoos .
• Extinction : A million species at risk , so what is saved ?
`` The extinct-in-the-wild species are absolutely dependent on human care , '' said Dr John Ewen of the Zoological Society of London ( ZSL ) .
`` It 's our decision about which way to go forward that determines extinction or recovery . ''
BBC News has discovered that just one zoo out of around 300 in England has successfully made a claim from a £100m government recovery fund .
The trade body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Biaza , says the way the government 's bailout fund is structured means it is virtually impossible for most of its members to claim .
They need to be 12 weeks from bankruptcy to qualify and by that time any responsible animal park would already be trying to find new homes for its residents , the association says .
It warns that many international breeding programmes , designed to ensure the survival of rare species , may have to be cancelled and without government help some big UK zoos face closure .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ designed to provide a safety net if zoos got into really serious financial difficulties .
Zoos are one of the largest funders of conservation work around the world , particularly large , successful zoos in Europe , North America and Australia .
Dr Alexandra Zimmermann is a senior research fellow at Oxford University and former head of conservation at Chester Zoo .
She told BBC News : `` Zoos contribute hundreds of millions of support all over the world for conservation in the wild so if we lose a lot of that support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has really detrimental effects on conservation everywhere . ''
At least 77 species of plants and animals are classified as extinct in the wild by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature ( IUCN ) , which compiles data on endangered species .
The Guam kingfisher is one such bird , disappearing in the 1980s from the island of Guam , a US territory in the western Pacific .
A stowaway snake was accidently brought in on military equipment , where it wreaked havoc on the ecosystem .
With no natural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , eventually growing to such a number that it ate most of the island 's native bird species .
The last few kingfishers on Earth were rescued and taken into captivity .
There are now 100 or so birds in breeding programs at US zoos , with plans to reintroduce them to Guam and other suitable islands , if a safe habitat can be found .
Many of the zoos were already under strain to breed enough birds to keep the population going , even before the pandemic , said Dr Ewen .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ incredible pressure on all of the institutions that care for them , '' he added .
Since many of the `` last stand '' species have gone extinct in the wild due to human actions , we have a responsibility to save them , said Dr Amanda Trask of ZSL .
`` It 's crazy not to take that chance and try and bring them back , '' she said .
Lockdown has placed many zoos around the world in a precarious financial situation .
While many institutions have reopened , reduced visitor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the financial pressures .
Zoos face huge bills from caring for animals ; ZSL 's monthly running costs were £2.3 million at the height of lockdown and it stands to lose £20 million this financial year .
Some small zoos have already closed down while others are reducing conservation work .
Dr Matyas Liptovszky , honorary assistant professor of zoo animal medicine at the University of Nottingham , said species kept alive in zoos and botanical gardens are `` the last safeguards of irreplaceable parts of our worlds '' .
The UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to preserve cultural and historic relics , but not in keeping extinct animals alive , he said , describing this as `` bizarre '' for a nature and animal-loving nation .
`` One of the biggest differences between a great UK museum , which preserves remnants of already extinct animals , and a great UK zoo , which fights to keep alive another one on the way to extinction , is the complete lack of government funding for the latter one , '' he said .
`` Their visitor revenue is directly funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with no or reduced number of visitors , they deserve and desperately need external help '' .

The last few kingfishers on Earth were rescued and taken into captivity. There are now 100 or so birds in breeding programs at US zoos, with plans to reintroduce them to Guam and other suitable islands, if a safe habitat can be found.


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Bank warned ministers Covid loans were fraud risk

The government was warned in May that its flagship loan scheme to help small firms affected by Covid was at `` very high risk of fraud '' from `` organised crime '' , it has emerged .
The state-owned British Business Bank ( BBB ) which supervises the Bounce Back Loan Scheme , twice raised concerns .
A BBC report revealed that criminals were setting up fake firms to get loans worth tens of thousands of pounds .
The Bounce Back Loan Scheme has already paid out more than £38bn .
In early May , just two days before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the BBB , Keith Morgan , wrote of the `` very significant fraud and credit risks '' , adding that it was `` vulnerable to abuse by individuals and organised crime '' .
The bank , he said in a letter to Business Secretary Alok Sharma , could not guarantee `` robust controls '' .
Other concerns included an `` extensive reliance on customer self-certification '' and `` potential for market distortion '' .
He said that the BBB had commissioned a review of the scheme by accountants PwC , which had classified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
In his letter , dated 2 May and which followed a email warning the day before , Mr Morgan also raised concerns that the quick introduction of the scheme had `` created huge operational challenges '' .
However , Mr Sharma said the scheme should go ahead despite the risks , because of what he called the `` unprecedented situation facing the country '' .
• 'My name was used to steal a government Covid loan' • UK banks get 100,000 loan applications on first day Bounce Back Loans are 100 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and were introduced to mitigate the huge pressure on small businesses after the economy went into coronavirus lockdown .
They do not have to be paid off for six years , and are interest-free for the first 12 months .
According to latest Treasury figures , there have been 1.55 million applications , with 1.26 million approvals and £38.02b paid out .
At the weekend , the BBC 's Angus Crawford revealed how fraudsters were targeting the loan system .
One bogus company , Tellings Home Made Furniture , `` borrowed '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a man called Mark Telling .
The revelations come after the head of the National Audit Office told the Guardian Bounce Back Loans were the `` riskiest '' of all the bailout measures .
But a government spokesman told the BBC the loan scheme had been vital for many businesses and that fraudsters would be pursued .
He said : `` Our loan schemes have provided a lifeline to thousands of businesses across the UK - helping them survive the outbreak and protecting millions of jobs .
`` Our support has been targeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it most as quickly as possible and we wo n't apologise for this . ''
He said the government worked with agencies to minimise fraud , `` with lenders implementing a range of protections including anti-money laundering and customer checks , as well as transaction monitoring controls .
Any fraudulent applications can be criminally prosecuted for which penalties include imprisonment or a fine or both '' .

Bounce Back Loans are 100% government-backed loans of up to £50,000, and were introduced to mitigate the huge pressure on small businesses after the economy went into coronavirus lockdown. They do not have to be paid off for six years, and are interest-free for the first 12 months.


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Job loss fears as furlough lifeline starts to wind down

The countdown to the end of the furlough financial lifeline has begun , with employers facing increased costs amid a warning that millions of jobs now hang in the balance .
From Thursday , the government 's contribution to furloughed workers ' wages falls .
It is also the deadline for some firms to issue redundancy notices before the furlough scheme ends on 31 October .
The current scheme is being replaced by a less generous jobs support package .
Labour claims that as a result of the government 's `` flawed '' support , almost three million people working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ losing their jobs .
New analysis from the party says that at the start of September an estimated 2.8 million workers in small and medium size firms ( SMEs ) were furloughed under the current Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ( CJRS ) .
Since then new Covid restrictions have been imposed that mean 133,055 SMEs - including in the hospitality and events sectors - can not operate or are trading at reduced capacity , it says .
More than a million SMEs are still suffering a fall in turnover , with about 310,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did over the same period last year , the analysis claims .
Changes coming into effect on Thursday , along with other cost increases for employers , were announced in July .
The government 's contribution towards furlough wages is dropping from 70 % to 60 % , up to a cap of £1,875 a month .
And employers have to pay a minimum of 20 % of wages , bringing monthly earnings to at least 80 % of salary .
• 'We have next to no income .
There is no help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ required to meet the cost of pension contributions and National Insurance for employees placed on the scheme .
There are also fears that the winding down of the furlough scheme could trigger a new wave of redundancies .
Thursday is the deadline for employers to issue redundancy notices if they are planning to lay off between 20 and 99 workers before the scheme ends .
The replacement jobs support scheme shifts more of the financial burden away from the taxpayer and on to employers .
But the aim is to subsidise staff to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mass redundancies .
Critics say it will be more expensive to bring back furloughed workers .
Sonia Hawkins , who runs Disco Equipment Hire , a music and lightening rental service for the entertainment industry , told the BBC the numbers just do not add up .
She said : `` We have next to no income .
We 've got people on furlough .
We would have to bring them back and pay them just to get a subsidy .
It 's nuts . ''
Employment lawyer Merrill April , from CM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support scheme would not make much financial sense for some employers .
She told the BBC : `` One of the condition is that employees have to work 33 % of their normal hours so , in short , employers will have to pay at least 55 % of an employees usual wage where the employee only works 33 % of their usual hours . ''
However , she said that many firms supported the new scheme and would not rush to cut jobs .
Redundancy is expensive , she said , adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and skills for as long as possible .
The British Chambers of Commerce ( BCC ) said it was a critical time for employers , with its members facing cash flow difficulties ahead of what was likely to be a challenging winter .
BCC co-executive director Claire Walker said further support may be needed .
`` As the Jobs Support Scheme replaces the furlough scheme , and employers are asked to pay more towards staffing costs , the government must stand ready to offer further support to businesses who may be unable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions and reduced demand . ''
'There are no jobs .
It 's terrifying' Events manager Lisa , on furlough since March , was optimistic about returning to work over the next few weeks as Christmas festivities are always good for business .
But the further restrictions on hospitality and imminent changes to the furlough scheme give Lisa 's employer no incentive to bring her back , she told the BBC .
`` Work has all but vanished since Covid .
We have gone through a consultation period for redundancies .
I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happen , '' said Lisa , who did not want to disclose her surname nor employer for fear of saying anything to jeopardise future work .
`` The latest jobs support scheme does nothing to help those of us on furlough .
I have been brought back one day a week , but what is happening now gives my employer no incentive to give me more days , '' Lisa adds .
She has asked her employer to take unpaid leave until March , but there has been no decision .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been applying for other jobs .
I have searched and searched for different jobs since March .
But there 's nothing . ''
`` I can understand what Mr Sunak is trying to do [ to help the economy ] .
But it is so difficult for us .
He does n't seem to have done anything that will help people like me . ''
Read more : 'We have next to no income .
There is no help . '
Chancellor Rishi Sunak 's latest support measures announced this month have nevertheless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welcomed by the CBI employers ' group and union leaders at the TUC .
The Federation of Small Businesses ( FSB ) singled out for praise the pay-as-you-go scheme that allows firms more time to repay loans , saying it should give confidence to invest and hire .
Business leaders also welcomed new tax cuts and deferrals .
However , FSB chairman Mike Cherry said : `` It 's important to remember that small firms have already spent thousands on putting safety measures in place but received no funding to support their efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • The women who started businesses in lockdown And Mr Cherry remains worried about the plight of the newly-self employed and company directors , who he said have received no income support whatsoever .
He told the BBC : `` We are concerned that the chancellor had said nothing on support for those who were left out of the first round of support measures .
The government urgently needs to come forward with an emergency relief package for these groups which have dutifully paid their taxes and deserve help too . ''
Shadow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` sink or swim '' mentality .
`` Millions of jobs are at risk because he 's forcing small businesses to choose which staff to keep and which to fire .
These are viable businesses that just need support to cope with the restrictions the government has imposed on them . ''
She said the chancellor 's job support changes were `` pulling up the drawbridge at the worst possible time '' .
A Treasury spokesman said the support has reached , and continue to reach , millions of firms and people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , business rates holidays , bans of tenant evictions , and sick pay rebates .
`` The [ new ] Job Support Scheme is designed to protect jobs in businesses facing lower demand over the winter due to Covid , and is just one form of support on offer to employers during this difficult period .
`` We 're also continuing to innovate in supporting incomes and employment through our Plan for Jobs announced in July , helping employees get back to work through a £1,000 retention bonus and creating new roles for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
• LOCAL LOCKDOWNS : What happens if you have one ?
• QUARANTINE : Who must self-isolate after arriving in the UK • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• SUPPORT BUBBLES : What are they and who can be in yours ?

He told the BBC: "We are concerned that the chancellor had said nothing on support for those who were left out of the first round of support measures. The government urgently needs to come forward with an emergency relief package for these groups which have dutifully paid their taxes and deserve help too."


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Smart plugs sold on Amazon a 'fire risk', Which? warns

A smart plug for sale on Amazon poses a fire risk and people should immediately stop using it , an investigation by consumer watchdog Which ?
suggests .
And this could cause an electrical discharge between two electrodes , posing a fire risk particularly in homes with older wiring .
The investigators also said the product 's CE mark , normally associated with having passed rigorous European safety standards , was misleading .
Others simply fake the safety mark because there is no central database to check whether it has been verified and it can be self-declared by companies .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ they do n't , '' said Clever Compliance chief executive Max Stralin .
`` We monitor the products sold in our stores for product-safety concerns , '' it said .
`` When appropriate , we remove a product from the store , reach out to sellers , manufacturers and government agencies for additional information or take other actions . ''
But Which ?
Computing editor Kate Bevan said : `` Too often we 've seen dangerous products being sold on online marketplaces from unknown brands - in many cases originating from China 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have little accountability and are virtually impossible to contact .
`` Currently , consumers face a lottery regarding the safety of the products they buy from online marketplaces and whether they meet required safety standards in the UK .
`` That 's why it 's vitally important that the government gives online marketplaces more legal responsibility for preventing unsafe products from being sold on their sites . ''
She called for government legislation and an `` enforcement body with teeth '' to crack down on rogue devices .
Hictkon products , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touchscreen monitors and Hallow-e'en masks , are available only on Amazon , according to Which ?

But Which? Computing editor Kate Bevan said: "Too often we've seen dangerous products being sold on online marketplaces from unknown brands - in many cases originating from China's electronics capital, Shenzhen - that appear to have little accountability and are virtually impossible to contact.


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Ballymena: Child dies following house fire

A 12-year-old girl has died following a house fire in Ballymena , County Antrim .
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service ( NIAS ) said it was called to a house at Staffa Drive in the Ballykeel area of the town at around 17:50 BST on Wednesday .
The PSNI and NI Fire and Rescue Service attended the property .
Police said the girl died at the scene , while a man who was in the house at the time was taken to hospital for treatment .
`` The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service , '' PSNI Ch Insp William Calderwood said .
This was the second death reported in the Ballykeel area of the town on Wednesday .
A murder investigation has been launched after a man 's body was discovered at a flat in Crebilly Drive .
Reverend Martin McNeely from Ballykeel Presbyterian Church said the child 's death was `` tragic . ''
`` People find it really hard to find the vocabulary to describe the depth of sorrow , '' he said .
`` This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murder this morning and now the tragic death of a much loved 12-year-old girl this evening . ''

"The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and will be subject to investigation, in liaison with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service," PSNI Ch Insp William Calderwood said.


bbcuk--2020-10-01--Plastic straw ban in England comes into force

A ban on single-use plastic straws , stirrers and cotton buds has come into force in England .
The measure , originally due to start in April , makes it illegal for businesses to sell or supply the items .
People in England use an estimated 4.7 billion plastic straws , 316 million plastic stirrers and 1.8 billion plastic-stemmed cotton buds each year .
Environmental campaigners welcomed the ban but called for a crackdown on further single-use items .
An exemption will allow hospitals , bars and restaurants to provide plastic straws to people with disabilities or medical conditions that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carrier bags in England to double Environment Secretary George Eustice said the government was `` firmly committed '' to tackling environmental `` devastation '' caused by single-use plastics .
Campaigners welcomed the move but said the items formed only a `` fraction '' of the plastic waste littering the environment .
Sion Elis Williams , of Friends of the Earth , said ministers `` must also do more to challenge our throwaway culture by forcing a shift away from all single-use materials in favour of reusable alternatives '' .
Tatiana Lujan , of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cotton buds and stirrers were `` some of the most pointless plastics out there '' and the ban on them was `` a no-brainer '' .
But they remained `` a tiny fraction '' of single-use plastics , she said , adding that countries such as Ireland and France had `` shown far more ambition '' with targets on reusable packaging and deposit return schemes .
Mr Eustice said the government was `` building plans '' for a 5p deposit scheme to encourage recycling of single-use drinks containers .
The Welsh government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ban on plastics .
A number of national restaurant chains ditched plastic straws before the ban was announced .

Sion Elis Williams, of Friends of the Earth, said ministers "must also do more to challenge our throwaway culture by forcing a shift away from all single-use materials in favour of reusable alternatives".


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Covid: 170 test positive at Cornwall meat plant

Testing has uncovered 170 cases of Covid-19 among workers at a pork meat processing plant in Cornwall .
Five hundred staff at Pilgrim 's Pride in Pool , near Camborne , were tested in a contact tracing exercise by the NHS .
Most of those who tested positive were unaware they had Covid-19 and were not displaying symptoms .
They and those they have been in close contact with are isolating in line with government guidelines , said Cornwall Council .
Cornwall remains the area in the region with the highest number of cases .
In the week to Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The infection rate is 31.5 per 100,000 .
`` In total , almost 500 employees at the factory have been tested and the vast majority of the cases who tested positive were not displaying symptoms , '' said Cornwall Council .
Rachel Wigglesworth , interim director for Public Health for Cornwall Council , said : `` In finding people who were n't displaying symptoms we have potentially stopped much wider spread in our communities '' .
Council leader Julian German said `` proactive testing '' was `` helping us to take action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our communities '' .
Pilgrim 's Pride said in a statement said `` from the outset '' it had `` worked conscientiously to do all we can to protect our workforce and the local community '' .

Pilgrim's Pride said in a statement said "from the outset" it had "worked conscientiously to do all we can to protect our workforce and the local community".


bbcuk--2020-09-30--Man, 41, loses 'unprecedented' legal bid for parents' financial support

A 41-year-old man has failed in a legal bid to force his wealthy parents to continue financially supporting him .
A qualified solicitor with mental health disabilities , the man said his parents `` nurtured his dependency '' on them but reduced support as his relationship with them deteriorated .
His lawyers said the judge had powers to order parents to provide support based on laws relating to marriage and children .
But the judge ruled he had `` no case '' .
Sir James Mumby said in a ruling following a remote family court hearing that the claim was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he knew `` unprecedented '' .
Neither of the parties were named , but the judge said the man lived in London and his parents in Dubai .
Although the man has a degree in modern history , is a qualified solicitor and has a master 's degree in taxation , Sir James said he has `` various difficulties and mental health disabilities '' and has been unemployed since 2011 .
His parents have supported him , allowing him to live in a flat in central London that they own , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But the judge said : `` The relationship between the applicant and his parents , in particular , it would appear , his father , has deteriorated and the financial support they are prepared to offer has significantly reduced . ''
The man 's lawyer , Tim Amos , said his parents are `` very wealthy '' and could comfortably pay any support the court might reasonably order .
Mr Amos characterised the parents as having `` nurtured his dependency on them for the last 20 years or so '' and now `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state '' .
Lawyers for the parents disputed this account .
Sir James dismissed the case on legal grounds , saying the court had no jurisdiction to grant his claims under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 , the Children Act 1989 , or under human rights law .
The man 's lawyer had argued that the provisions in these laws allowing the court to order payments to support young children could also apply to adult children - if they were undergoing education and training , or if they had special circumstances such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out that these provisions only applied when a court order for financial support has already been made when the child is young , and when the parents are not living with each other - which was not the case for this man .
He said the law was clear that an adult child `` should not be able to take his parents to court to obtain finance '' .

But the judge pointed out that these provisions only applied when a court order for financial support has already been made when the child is young, and when the parents are not living with each other - which was not the case for this man.