bbcuk--2020-03-18--School closures: What will happen now?

School closures: What will happen now?

Schools across England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland are to close on Friday because of the coronavirus epidemic .
What will the impact be ?
How long are schools likely to be closed ?
We do n't yet know .
This will depend to a large extend on how effective measures to reduce the spread of the outbreak are .
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Jenny Harries said the move was not prompted because children were at any particular risk , but because it was necessary to reduce social contact throughout society .
England 's Education Secretary Gavin Williamson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further notice '' .
Most schools were due to break up for the Easter holidays in two weeks ' time .
Schools in England , Wales and Scotland will close on Friday afternoon .
Schools in Northern Ireland closed for pupils from Wednesday for teachers from Monday .
So will every school be completely closed ?
No .
Some schools will be kept open with a skeleton staff to provide support for the children of key workers , such as NHS staff , police and delivery drivers .
They will also be asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for example , children who receive free school meals .
Teaching unions are supportive of these measures , but say they want to see more details of the plans .
The government says it 's also asking nurseries and private schools to close , and will provide financial support if needed .
What will happen about exams ?
In England and in Wales , all exams in May and June have been cancelled , including GCSEs and A-levels as well as England 's primary school national curriculum tests , known as Sats .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I can confirm we will not go ahead with assessments or exams and that we will not be publishing performance tables for this academic year .
`` We will work with the sector and [ the exams watchdog ] Ofqual to ensure children get the qualifications that they need . ''
Scotland and Northern Ireland will announce a decision on exams in the days to come .
What does this mean for parents ?
For many working parents , the closures will present issues surrounding childcare ( this was one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as long as possible ) .
Some may need to take time off work , raising concerns that some families will struggle financially .
Head teachers have told the BBC that they have been making plans to continue teaching and supporting pupils during the closure , using social media and technologies such as Google Classroom and Maths Watch .
On Tuesday , Chancellor Rishi Sunak said that funding for early years grants would continue to be paid while nurseries or pre-schools are closed and if childminders are unable to work .
• EASY @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Why did government hold out against closures ?
Until now , the official advice was that schools should stay open , unlike in many other countries across Europe where schools were closed earlier on in the outbreak .
The UK 's approach was based on information that children are not as vulnerable to coronavirus as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least likely to get severe symptoms .
The government was also concerned that school closures would cause widespread disruption .
And there were fears that if grandparents - a vulnerable group - were drafted in to help with childcare , infected children could transmit the disease to them .
There have also been concerns that vulnerable children , such as those in danger of neglect , would be at greater risk if schools were closed for a long period of time .
But the government has now decided they will close schools - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult has this week been for schools ?
Head teachers say they have been struggling with the growing number of staff who have taken time off because they are ill , have underlying health conditions or are self-isolating .
Teachers ' unions have said the uncertainty of the current situation was causing `` intolerable pressure '' for schools .
Chris Keates , from the NASUWT , said `` a lack of specific information for schools understandably has created a rising sense of panic '' .
Before the closures announcement , the National Education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with underlying conditions to stay off work .
Many individual schools had already been closing their doors , or sending certain year groups home .
Have you been affected by the school closures due to coronavirus ?
Please get in touch by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
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How are Covid rules changing across UK schools? Published 23 February 2022
Image source, Getty Images
All remaining Covid restrictions have now been scrapped in English schools.
Rules have also been eased elsewhere in the UK, but some measures are being retained for the moment.
How are the Covid rules changing in schools?
The legal requirement to self-isolate after a positive test is also being removed, although it is still recommended.
Head teachers groups have warned that the changes to testing and self-isolation "may actually lead to an increase in disruption", as Covid is more likely to spread in the classroom, leading to further pupil and staff absence.
Image source, Getty Images
All school staff and secondary school pupils in Scotland and Northern Ireland are still asked to take two lateral flow tests (LFTs) a week (three in Wales).
In Wales, schools are largely back to normal. Face coverings will no longer be required in classrooms after 28 February, but should still be worn in communal areas of secondary schools.
In Northern Ireland, schools reopened with the same measures as last term. If a primary or post-primary class has multiple Covid cases, all pupils should take an LFT. The guidance that pupils in post-primary schools should wear face coverings still applies.
In Scotland, social distancing remains in place. However, pupils will no longer have to wear masks in school from 28 February.
How many teachers and pupils are off because of Covid?
The latest data for England shows that 182,000 pupils (2.2%) of pupils were absent for Covid-related reasons on 10 February, down from 320,000 (3.9%) on 3 February.
On the same date, 2.8% of teachers and school leaders and 2.5% of teaching assistants and other staff were absent due to Covid, down from 4.4% and 4.1% respectively the previous week.
Almost half England's schools (45%) had one in 20 teachers absent due to Covid.
In Scotland on 17 February, 12,638 students (2.4%) were missing from school due to Covid-related reasons. The highest absence rate this year was seen on 7 January, when 43,565 students (14.1%) were off.
In Northern Ireland, 5.2% of students, 9% of teachers and 11% of classroom assistants in schools were absent due to Covid over the week 24 to 28 January - the highest rates since the new term began.
Image source, Getty Images
Many schools have told the BBC they have struggled to find temporary staff to cover the teachers who are off.
England's Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi urged retired teachers to return and join teacher supply agencies to fill gaps, but a BBC survey suggested there had been a limited response.
Mr Zahawi also suggested schools could merge classes. But teaching unions said there were logistical difficulties and safety issues with teaching large groups of children.
Image source, Getty Images
Can a child go to school if they or someone in their household or class has Covid?
After Thursday 24 February, people in England with Covid will no longer have a legal obligation to self-isolate.
However, people who test positive will still be advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days, including school staff and students.
The legal requirement to self-isolate remains in place across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
As long as they don't have Covid symptoms, under-18s already don't have to self-isolate if someone else in their household has Covid.
Similarly, whole classes are no longer automatically sent home to isolate if a pupil or teacher tests positive.
However, close contacts aged five or above are strongly advised to test for at least seven days.
All primary and post-primary pupils in Northern Ireland are advised to take an LFT if there are multiple Covid cases in their class.
Which pupils are being vaccinated?
All children aged five to 11 in the UK will be offered a low-dose vaccine, which is being rolled out on a "non-urgent" basis.
It's expected to be offered in England in April, and plans are also under way in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In addition:
the low-dose vaccine is already being offered to five to 11-year-olds with medical conditions that put them at greater risk
all children aged 12 and over are being offered two doses of the Pfizer jab
sixteen and 17-year-olds who had a second vaccine dose at least three months ago can have a booster
the JCVI has also recommended that the booster is also offered to children aged 12-15 who are in an at-risk group or live with someone who is immunosuppressed
Children who aren't at high risk from Covid should wait 12 weeks after a positive test before having a jab.
How will exams work this year?
Grades will again be decided by external marking, instead of the teacher assessments used in 2020 and 2021, but grade boundaries will be more lenient in England, Wales and Scotland.
English exam boards have published details about this year's GCSE, AS and A-level papers for most subjects, including maths, biology, chemistry and languages.
Students taking GCSE exams in English Literature, geography, history and ancient history won't have to answer questions on one option from their course.
In maths and science exams, students will be given sheets of formulae and equations.
Students taking vocational B-Tec qualifications will have fewer internal assessments.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: BBC and ITV revamp broadcast plans amid outbreak

The BBC has announced it will focus more of its programmes , including The One Show , on the coronavirus outbreak .
The broadcaster will also offer more about education , fitness , religion and recipes for those stuck at home .
A dedicated coronavirus podcast will be released daily , and the BBC 's local radio stations will provide support to communities around the country .
ITV will also broadcast news specials and suspend some planned entertainment shows including The Voice UK .
Ant & Dec 's Saturday Night Takeaway will go ahead this weekend , but without a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There will be `` further developments and challenges ahead - such as filling the gaps left by the suspension of sporting events '' , ITV director of television Kevin Lygo said .
`` We are already seeing new ideas coming through which might provide innovative new ways of producing TV in these uniquely challenging times . ''
BBC director general Tony Hall said : `` We all know these are challenging times for each and every one of us .
As the national broadcaster , the BBC has a special role to play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We need to pull together to get through this .
That 's why the BBC will be using all of its resources - channels , stations and output - to help keep the nation informed , educated and entertained . ''
• A weekly prime-time coronavirus special will be broadcast on Wednesdays on BBC One • There will be a daily edition of the coronavirus podcast , filmed where possible for the BBC News Channel • Radio 5 Live will host regular phone-ins , during which listeners can ask questions and seek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used as a consumer programme for all aspects of the crisis , including health and wellbeing advice • A daytime programme on BBC One - Health Check UK Live - will directly address the concerns of viewers who are in isolation • There will be a focus on news , listener phone-ins and expert advice for communities across morning programmes on BBC local radio stations • Every local radio station will also join up with local volunteer groups to help co-ordinate support for the elderly , housebound or at-risk • Educational programming for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the red button , with a daily educational programme for different key stages or year groups .
BBC Bitesize will also be expanded • A virtual church service on Sunday mornings will be launched across local radio in England , led initially by the Archbishop of Canterbury , while the corporation aims to explore ways to reflect other religions , including in the run-up to Ramadan • Newsround bulletins for children will remain on air throughout the day on CBBC , and there will be a new iPlayer experience for children • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to supply clear information , including public announcements , health advice and recipes , including for low-income households • Major news programmes including BBC Breakfast , and the News at One , Six and Ten will be maintained as much as possible • Several shows will return to iPlayer .
Box sets that will become available again shortly include Spooks , The Missing , Waking the Dead , French and Saunders , Wallander and The Honourable Woman .
• Classic radio programmes will also return to BBC Sounds , while programmes which were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broadcast on the main radio stations .
• Radio 4 will re-broadcast classic editions of comedy programmes including Just A Minute and I 'm Sorry I Have n't A Clue , as well as dramas and readings such as the Bronte Sisters ' novels .
Lord Hall added : `` It will take time to emerge from the challenges we all face , but the BBC will be there for the public all the way through this .
Clearly there will be disruption to our output along the way , but we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday , BBC soaps and continuing dramas including EastEnders , Casualty , Holby City and Doctors put their production schedules on hold .
• Read more about the BBC plans • TV awards held behind closed doors as others axed ITV also announced changes to its schedules , including a new weekly Monday night show - Coronavirus Report - which will be produced by ITV News and `` give viewers an in-depth insight into issues affecting them during the current crisis '' .
The live semi-final and final of The Voice UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .
The knockouts , which are pre-recorded , will continue to be broadcast this weekend as planned .
The Britain 's Got Talent audition shows are still due to be broadcast in the next few weeks as planned , and ITV said it was looking at logistical options for the live finals .
ITV has already confirmed its soaps Emmerdale and Coronation Street will continue , but with reduced filming schedules and only three episodes of Corrie per week .
Earlier this week , the BBC also announced a number of changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus outbreak .
Programmes including Politics Live and Victoria Derbyshire have been temporarily suspended , allowing the BBC News Channel to focus on `` core news '' .
Question Time , which sees political figures and commentators take questions from the public , will move to a prime time 20:00 slot on BBC One .
However , it will proceed without a studio audience for the time being .
The practicalities of putting questions to the panel during this period is `` still being worked on '' , BBC media editor Amol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and The Andrew Marr Show on BBC One will remain on air but will be operated by fewer technical staff ; while The Andrew Neil Show , Newswatch and the News Channel 's The Travel Show will be suspended .
Hardtalk will also be suspended from next week .
Radio news will see fewer changes initially , although news summaries on Radios 2 , 3 , 4 and 5 Live will be combined into a single output from Friday .
The Americast , Beyond Today and The Next Episode podcasts will be suspended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus podcast for the foreseeable future .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

Lord Hall added: "It will take time to emerge from the challenges we all face, but the BBC will be there for the public all the way through this. Clearly there will be disruption to our output along the way, but we will do our very best."


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: How the government hopes to stop you touching your face

People in the UK are being asked to improve their personal hygiene in an effort to limit and slow the spread of coronavirus .
But how 's the government going about it ?
It 's something people are thought to do more than 20 times an hour on average , but the official advice is to desist so that coronavirus does n't spread any faster .
It 's not easy to give up unhygienic habits picked up over a lifetime , though .
So the government is using `` Nudge theory '' , a branch of economics designed to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' by making it easier , more normal and more obvious .
The Behavioural Insights Team ( BIT ) , a company part-owned by the Cabinet Office , is advising ministers on how best to do it .
It 's come up with some ideas to prevent face-touching , as featured on its blog .
How about asking friends , family or colleagues to shout `` face '' every time they see you 're about to reach up for a scratch or rub ?
Or folding your arms in a locked position , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slipping free and heading upwards ?
Another suggestion is creating an alternative `` habitual '' action , such as drumming fingers on legs or playing with a substitute object , such a ball .
`` Even if you 're very concerned about coronavirus , it 's very difficult to stop doing something like face-touching because it 's such a habit , '' says Cynthia McVey , former head of psychology at Glasgow Caledonian University .
`` There have been reports of people who are worried enough to wear masks who have still removed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
• LIVE UPDATES : Latest on coronavirus across the world • EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Nudge theory , already widely used by governments , aims to instil better habits - or change social `` norms '' - rather than focusing on explicit `` top-down '' advice .
If enough people do something , you feel a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , of guilt perhaps , if you do n't do the same .
`` It 's more powerful than traditional methods of getting across certain advice , '' says Kelly Hunstone , chief executive of the Social Change UK agency and a former adviser on behavioural science to the government .
`` We 've left the age of deference and need to communicate differently .
`` In some instances we do n't trust the experts but the person on the street to show us how to act .
It 's a bit like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the advice of Bob in Essex than a travel operator . ''
Since the coronavirus crisis began , the government has recommended singing Happy Birthday to yourself twice while washing your hands .
It 's easier to remember than counting the full 20 seconds this equates to .
We 've also been advised to sneeze into our sleeves if there are no tissues around .
Both tips bear the signs of Nudge theory , which emphasises putting across a `` clear message '' .
Nudge theory also assumes people do n't always act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those of society - for reasons such as laziness , selfishness and ignorance .
Hence the need to ease the way towards doing what a government wants us to do .
It 's an idea that has caught on at local and national level since the book Nudge , by US academics Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein , was published in 2008 .
Some UK councils provide recycling bins that are larger than their normal waste bins , in an effort to get people recycle more .
Tax reminders are sent out saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an area have already paid , putting social pressure on recipients to do the same .
And there are now automatic donor cards and automatic enrolment work pensions - where people have to opt out , rather than in .
These have been shown to increase take-up rates .
What can be done , though , to deal with the effects of coronavirus on society ?
The government is urging people not to stockpile toilet paper , pasta and other goods , while supermarkets are putting up notices asking people not to over-purchase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is clear , but Ms Hunstone advocates a more Nudge-y , emotion-led approach .
`` It would be more effective to show a picture of Doris Jones , 76 , who ca n't get out easily to visit the supermarket , if you 're trying to persuade people not to buy too many cans of baked beans or loo rolls , '' Ms Hunstone says .
She argues that pictures like this , seen recently on Facebook , could be placed in shops , inducing guilt in those tempted to stuff their trolleys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use the ego when you 're putting out this kind of message and people like to be seen doing what 's right , '' Ms Hunstone adds .
People leaving enough provisions on shelves could photograph their trolleys or baskets and share them on social media , further marginalising those who do not , she says .
So , in a way , `` annoying '' virtue-signallers could encourage the spread of virtuous behaviour in others .
The UK government has faced criticism for adopting a different approach to other countries towards coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following advice than creating a wider `` lockdown '' .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has signalled a change of approach this week , urging people to reduce social contact with others , but the measures are less severe than in many other European countries , necessitating simple advice .
Staff with the Behavioural Insights Team are honing and testing messages to create the greatest impact .
`` Simplicity is key , '' says Ms Hunstone .
It might get boring hearing the same thing again and again .
But you have to hear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really understand them and they get through .
Consistency is absolutely vital . ''
There have been criticisms that Nudge theory infantilises people , not crediting them with the ability to think for themselves and removing effective choice .
But it 's very much in favour in Downing Street .
Whether it can stop people touching their faces remains to be seen .

"Even if you're very concerned about coronavirus, it's very difficult to stop doing something like face-touching because it's such a habit," says Cynthia McVey, former head of psychology at Glasgow Caledonian University. "There have been reports of people who are worried enough to wear masks who have still removed them so they can rub their nose."


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Will I get a refund on my ticket if events are cancelled?

The government has advised against mass gatherings in the UK for the foreseeable future - effectively cancelling all large-scale events , such as concerts , sports fixtures and theatre productions .
The 2020 Glastonbury Festival is the latest in a long list of events that have been cancelled because of coronavirus .
Professional football in England and Scotland has already been suspended and all horse racing in Great Britain will stop from Wednesday .
Many events around the world , including the Euro 2020 finals , have also been postponed or cancelled .
So , what are your rights if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets called off ?
Generally , if you bought your ticket for a cancelled event from an official seller , you should be entitled to a refund , often automatically .
However , additional costs , such as postage and booking fees , are unlikely to be reimbursed .
For anyone who purchased a ticket through a ticket-reselling website , refunds will depend on the site 's terms and conditions .
Some sites , like Viagogo , have already said customers will get a full refund in the event of a cancellation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not make the rearranged date , you should be entitled to your money back .
For example , Uefa says it will refund all Euro 2020 ticket holders who ca n't make any dates in 2021 .
The football leagues in England and Scotland have not yet announced what will happen about tickets for cancelled matches .
Season ticket holders should check their individual club 's terms and conditions .
Meanwhile , European football 's governing body Uefa says it will refund all Euro 2020 ticket holders who ca n't make the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Glastonbury Festival say that anyone that has paid a £50 deposit can roll it over to next year in order to buy a ticket for the 2021 event .
Otherwise , people can ask for their £50 to be refunded .
If you are taking part in something , the same refund rules may apply to entry fees if it is cancelled .
But you need to check the event organiser 's terms and conditions .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• HOW IS THE UK PLANNING @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK 's 'delay ' stage ?
• WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS ?
A simple guide • HOW TO SELF-ISOLATE : What you need to know • WHERE ARE WE WITH A VACCINE ?
Progress so far • A VISUAL GUIDE TO THE OUTBREAK : Virus maps and charts What if I 'm having problems getting my refund ?
If you have heard nothing about a refund after a couple of weeks , follow it up , says consumer rights journalist Helen Dewdney .
She advises : `` Where possible , do everything in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' If you 're not getting anywhere you can approach your credit card company , says Ms Dewdney .
Using a credit card to buy something costing between £100 and £30,000 means you are legally entitled to a refund if you do not get what you were promised .
Even if the ticket is worth less than £100 , or a debit card was used instead , there is still the chance of getting a refund under the chargeback scheme .
This is used to reverse the transaction .
• Coronavirus : What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Which sport events have been affected ?
Can I make a donation instead of a refund ?
Many events are put on to raise money for good causes .
Many art , music and theatre groups are charities and rely heavily on ticket sales for income .
They say there could be serious financial implications if they have to refund all tickets .
Some , including the BFI ( British Film Institute ) , have asked ticket holders to consider not asking for a refund so that the money can be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if the event goes ahead but my hotel shuts ?
If you are unable to attend an event because facilities such as hotels or travel are unavailable , the situation is not so clear-cut .
`` You 've got to hope for a goodwill gesture , '' says Ms Dewdney .
`` From the organisers ' point of view , they 'll say the event is still going ahead . ''
If you 've booked a package ( with hotel , flight and event entry all included ) , you may be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ depending on the small print .
Can I get a refund if an event is not as advertised ?
It depends , according to Adam French , from consumer group Which ?
.
`` If you 've bought a ticket for a Taylor Swift gig to headline , but she did n't perform , you should get your money back '' , he says .
`` But if it 's a festival with multiple acts , that means you have a ticket for the festival and not the individual performer .
In that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refund . ''
What if I do n't want to go ?
If you decide against going to a music event or sports match because you 're worried about coronavirus , there 's little chance of getting your money back .
The only possible exception is if you have some form of insurance with your ticket .

Coronavirus: Will I get a refund on my ticket if events are cancelled? Published 18 March 2020
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Sir Paul McCartney was due to headline Saturday night at Glastonbury this year
The government has advised against mass gatherings in the UK for the foreseeable future - effectively cancelling all large-scale events, such as concerts, sports fixtures and theatre productions.
The 2020 Glastonbury Festival is the latest in a long list of events that have been cancelled because of coronavirus. Professional football in England and Scotland has already been suspended and all horse racing in Great Britain will stop from Wednesday.
Many events around the world, including the Euro 2020 finals, have also been postponed or cancelled.
So, what are your rights if you have a ticket to something that gets called off?
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The Euro 2020 football finals were due to take place in 12 cities around Europe, including London and Glasgow
Am I entitled to a full refund?
Generally, if you bought your ticket for a cancelled event from an official seller, you should be entitled to a refund, often automatically.
However, additional costs, such as postage and booking fees, are unlikely to be reimbursed.
For anyone who purchased a ticket through a ticket-reselling website, refunds will depend on the site's terms and conditions. Some sites, like Viagogo, have already said customers will get a full refund in the event of a cancellation.
If an event is moved and you cannot make the rearranged date, you should be entitled to your money back. For example, European football's governing body, Uefa, says it will refund all Euro 2020 ticket holders who can't make any rearranged dates in 2021.
The football leagues in England and Scotland have not yet announced what will happen about tickets for cancelled matches. Season ticket holders should check their individual club's terms and conditions.
Organisers of the Glastonbury Festival say that anyone that has paid a £50 deposit can roll it over to next year in order to buy a ticket for the 2021 event. Otherwise, people can ask for their £50 to be refunded.
If you are taking part in something, the same refund rules may apply to entry fees if it is cancelled. But you need to check the event organiser's terms and conditions.
What do I need to know about the coronavirus?
What if I'm having problems getting my refund?
If you have heard nothing about a refund after a couple of weeks, follow it up, says consumer rights journalist Helen Dewdney.
She advises: "Where possible, do everything in writing so you have a record."
If you're not getting anywhere you can approach your credit card company, says Ms Dewdney.
Using a credit card to buy something costing between £100 and £30,000 means you are legally entitled to a refund if you do not get what you were promised.
Even if the ticket is worth less than £100, or a debit card was used instead, there is still the chance of getting a refund under the chargeback scheme. This is used to reverse the transaction.
Can I make a donation instead of a refund?
Many events are put on to raise money for good causes. Many art, music and theatre groups are charities and rely heavily on ticket sales for income. They say there could be serious financial implications if they have to refund all tickets.
Some, including the BFI (British Film Institute), have asked ticket holders to consider not asking for a refund so that the money can be used as a charitable donation instead.
What if the event goes ahead but my hotel shuts?
If you are unable to attend an event because facilities such as hotels or travel are unavailable, the situation is not so clear-cut.
"You've got to hope for a goodwill gesture," says Ms Dewdney. "From the organisers' point of view, they'll say the event is still going ahead."
If you've booked a package (with hotel, flight and event entry all included), you may be able to claim under your travel insurance - depending on the small print.
Can I get a refund if an event is not as advertised?
It depends, according to Adam French, from consumer group Which?.
"If you've bought a ticket for a Taylor Swift gig to headline, but she didn't perform, you should get your money back", he says.
"But if it's a festival with multiple acts, that means you have a ticket for the festival and not the individual performer. In that instance, you can't expect a refund."
What if I don't want to go?
If you decide against going to a music event or sports match because you're worried about coronavirus, there's little chance of getting your money back.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Bank of England boss: Don't fire people because of pandemic

Firms thinking of firing staff due to the coronavirus crisis should consider the support available to them first , the new Bank of England boss has said .
Andrew Bailey urged UK firms to `` stop , look at what 's available , come and talk to us [ or ] the government before you take that position '' .
He added that his `` big message '' for firms and citizens was that `` we will be there to support your needs '' .
Many firms may have to cut staff amid a slump in demand caused by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , theatres and pubs have all said they have been pushed to the brink as people are limiting all but essential social contact .
• 'We have gone from £140,000 a year to nothing' • Business Live : Boots boss says there 's enough paracetamol On Tuesday , Chancellor Rishi Sunak responded with a £350bn stimulus package to support struggling firms , including £330bn of business loan guarantees .
He also promised a business rates holiday and grants for retailers and pubs - although there are concerns the measures do not go far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were available even to those companies that had already fired people , Mr Bailey told the BBC : `` I would emphasise the point that it 's critical that we support the needs of the people in the country . ''
Asked again if the authorities were providing a `` bridge '' beyond the crisis for people who need to buy food , as well for businesses , the governor said there were `` important discussions '' going on between companies and the Treasury .
The message , he said , was that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the people in this country is critical '' .
The governor , who took over from Mark Carney this week , said that the Bank does not have the powers to stop businesses paying bonuses and dividends after receipt of subsidised loans .
But he said : `` I 'm sure they 'll get the message here . ''
The support given to the economy in terms of tax cuts and extra spending is likely to see sharply increased deficits .
Many economists predict that the Bank of England will start buying up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government debt - known as quantitative easing - next week at its regular meeting .
Mr Bailey said he was not going to foreshadow the meeting , and that the Bank was an independent institution , but the country had a right to expect that it would work `` in a very closely co-ordinated way with the government '' .
`` This is a crisis we 're all in .
It 's an emergency situation , '' Mr Bailey said .
The governor said it was his `` strong preference '' that financial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in recent weeks , should stay open though he was keeping `` a very close eye on the stability of markets and their integrity '' .
But he warned City traders not to `` exploit '' the situation by betting against businesses temporarily affected by the crisis .
Mr Bailey said : `` Anybody who says , ' I can make a load of money by shorting ' [ aggressively betting on the value of specific companies continuing to fall ] which might not be frankly in the interest of the economy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop doing what you 're doing . ''

Mr Bailey said: "Anybody who says, 'I can make a load of money by shorting' [aggressively betting on the value of specific companies continuing to fall] which might not be frankly in the interest of the economy, the interest of the people, just stop doing what you're doing."


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Craig Ruston 'youngest UK death'

A man in his 40s with motor neurone disease ( MND ) is thought to be the youngest person in the UK to have died having tested positive for coronavirus .
Craig Ruston , died in Kettering , Northamptonshire , on Monday morning and his chest infection was diagnosed as Covid-19 .
In a post on his Facebook page , Me and My MND , his wife Sally paid tribute to a `` wonderfully kind and caring person '' .
In the UK , 104 people with coronavirus have now died .
Mr Ruston 's wife said he was given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was diagnosed with MND in June 2018 and his `` fight with MND was not ready to be over '' .
`` Last Tuesday he was taken unwell and we have since spent the last six days in isolation , '' she said .
`` Craig 's chest infection was confirmed as Covid-19 .
How dare that take Craig who was already facing this , the most vile and evil of diseases . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
In tribute to her husband , she added : `` He welcomed everyone .
There were no airs and graces with Craig .
He loved the world .
He absorbed the world .
`` He was one of the most intelligent people I know that would absorb information and could somehow explain just about anything . ''
Prof Andrew Chilton , medical director from Kettering General Hospital , said : `` Sadly we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at Kettering General Hospital , and had tested positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patient who died on 16 March had underlying health conditions .
`` His family has been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult and distressing time . ''
Globally the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus have passed 200,000 and more than 8,000 people have died .
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Mr Ruston's wife said he was given about two years to live when he was diagnosed with MND in June 2018 and his "fight with MND was not ready to be over".


bbcuk--2020-03-18--'Sunday service' possible every day on railways

Reductions to rail timetables could take effect in the coming days , as train firms deal with staff shortages caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
Services across Britain are now largely empty as most people work from home and avoid non-essential travel .
Contingency plans are being made by government , Network Rail and operators to ensure that vital journeys are still possible .
Certain train lines essential for emergency workers could be prioritised .
Freight could be given priority in places too .
The situation is so fast-moving that the detail of these plans is being worked-out day-to-day .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a normal Sunday service on every day of the week .
On Tuesday , the Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told MPs that services would be reduced in the short-term `` to ensure we do n't effectively run ghost trains . ''
The most pressing problem for train companies and Network Rail is staff shortages , as train drivers or signal-operators self-isolate or call-in sick .
One of the biggest franchises in the country , South Western Railway , had to cancel services this morning .
Other companies are also short of train @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules over refunds for train tickets are changing amid the crisis .
Southeastern has already offered customers their money back on advance tickets .
State-run LNER is offering passengers credit instead .
Passenger group Transport Focus called on other operators to follow suit .
People with season tickets , which they are no longer using because they are working from home or self-isolating , might qualify for a refund .
Transport Focus chief executive Anthony Smith said `` people should n't be expected to carry on paying to get to work if they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The advice from the industry is to check with your rail company .
The immediate drop in passengers numbers and revenue for train companies is also causing unsustainable financial pressure .
So crisis talks between the Department for Transport and individual private train operators are ongoing .
Rail franchise contracts are likely to be suspended , and the government will have to increase the subsidies it pays to ensure that a reduced number of trains can still run .
The annual cost of running all train services in Britain is around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vast bulk of that over a matter of weeks the bill would be hundreds of millions of pounds .
It is also possible that some rail franchises could be nationalised , if the talks between individual train companies and the government fail to reach a position which is commercially acceptable to both sides .
Although one rail boss insisted that the mood of the talks was `` really collaborative . ''
`` The railway wants to play its part in a time of need '' , he said .
Several train franchises were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak .
Negotiations concerning the UK 's more troubled franchises are likely to be most complicated .
Two franchises , Northern and LNER , are already run by the Government .
The Eurostar between the UK and France is operating a `` minimal service '' .
UK government advice against all but essential travel abroad has had an impact on the service .
Eurostar is a UK-based company but its main shareholder is the French state railway , SNCF .
The firm said it was working closely with the UK and French governments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole travel industry . ''
France is under a strict lockdown , with citizens who leave home having to carry a document detailing the reasons why .

It is also possible that some rail franchises could be nationalised, if the talks between individual train companies and the government fail to reach a position which is commercially acceptable to both sides.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Chelsea FC offers hotel to NHS staff

NHS hospital staff are to be put up in a hotel owned by Chelsea football club , as part of efforts to help during the coronavirus crisis .
The club said the Millennium Hotel at Stamford Bridge will be made available to medics in north-west London .
The NHS said it was `` enormously grateful '' to the club and was looking for similar offers of support .
The initiative came from chairman Bruce Buck and owner Roman Abramovich , who will pay for the costs involved .
`` It was decided the best way Chelsea can assist the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the club said on its website .
`` Many of the medical staff will be working long shifts and may not be able to travel home or would otherwise have to make long commutes .
North West London Clinical Commissioning Group ( NWLCCG ) said : `` We really are enormously grateful to Chelsea Football Club and Mr Roman Abramovich for their offer to support our hard-working NHS staff during the Covid-19 emergency . ''
It added : `` We 'd very much welcome similar offers of support from other hotels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services running at a time when the NHS is likely to be under enormous pressure . ''
The hotel accommodation will be used by health staff who do not have Covid-19 symptoms , and are working long hours or are unable to travel home .
`` It may also be used by staff who are not symptomatic but live with family members who have started to show symptoms , '' a spokeswoman said .
The Stamford Bridge hotel will be seconded for a two-month period to begin then will be reviewed .
Millennium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hotel , will be providing services for NHS residents at the hotel .
Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for the virus on 12 March and the squad was told to self-isolate as a precaution .
His teammate Mason Mount was reminded of his responsibilities by the club after being pictured having a kickabout in north London with West Ham 's Declan Rice .
Players are supposed to be continuing to train at home and are due to return to their Cobham training ground , with has undergone a deep clean , on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
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bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: What next in the UK coronavirus fight?

Coronavirus is spreading in the UK and the government is seeking ways to minimise its spread .
A worst-case scenario , if nothing is done , could see 80 % of people infected .
So what is the UK doing about coronavirus ?
The government 's strategy has been changing quickly over recent weeks .
It started off trying to contain the outbreaks by isolating people who tested positive and asking anyone who had close contact with them to self-isolate too .
In early March , ministers accepted that was no longer viable so instead introduced policies to delay and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that by pushing the peak back to the summer it would allow the NHS to cope .
But new modelling released by Imperial College London then prompted a change in approach .
It warned the policy of a managed spread could still lead to more than 250,000 deaths with hospital intensive care units getting overwhelmed .
Ministers are now seeking to suppress the spread completely - hoping in the process to keep deaths below 20,000 .
What steps are being taken ?
The government is taking arguably the most drastic steps in peacetime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reduce social contact , with the strongest warnings for the most vulnerable .
Those who show symptoms , and those they live with , are being asked not to leave their homes .
• Anyone with a fever or persistent cough should stay at home for seven days if they live alone or 14 days if they live with others .
Anyone who lives with someone displaying coronavirus symptoms should also stay at home for 14 days .
People who have to isolate themselves should ask others for help • Everyone should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is particularly important for people over 70 , those with underlying health conditions and pregnant women • People should work from home where they can • People should avoid places like pubs , clubs and theatres .
This applies especially to those in London which is `` a few weeks ahead '' of the rest of the UK • By the weekend , those with the most serious health conditions - around 1.4 million with conditions such as heart disease , diabetes , or asthma - should be shielded from social contact for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice also remains , which is that everyone should regularly wash their hands and avoid contacting the NHS unless it 's essential .
All schools and nurseries will close in England on Friday until further notice .
A number of schools will remain open for children of `` key workers '' .
The government said this group would include the children of NHS staff , police and delivery workers .
There will also be school provision for vulnerable children ( pupils with educational and health plans ) .
The Prime Minister confirmed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( GCSEs and A-Levels ) will be cancelled .
In Scotland , all schools and nurseries will close by Friday .
Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said that from next week schools `` will have a new purpose '' and will offer support to those most in need including those involved in the response to the coronavirus outbreak .
Wales is also closing its schools on Friday .
The Welsh government says it is looking at how it can support pupils on free school meals and those with `` additional learning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also close from the end of the week .
What is going to happen next ?
We are in uncharted territory - so it is impossible to tell .
The problem with trying to suppress the virus is that as soon as you lift those measures the fear is it rebounds with a vengeance .
One option put forward by experts advising the government is to go through a cycle of lifting and reapplying the brakes , using demand on intensive care as a guide .
There will be close attention paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how it lifts restrictions .
The hope is that you break the spread of transmission and the virus goes away .
But that is not considered realistic .
Then you have to consider the social and economic factors at play .
Businesses are going to struggle and people are going to lose their jobs .
And how long are the public going to put up with being told they can not go out , need to work from home and can no longer watch sport or go to festivals ?
How do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It leaves the government with some very difficult decisions to take .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak What about the NHS ?
Can it cope ?
The whole of the NHS has been put on an emergency footing .
From mid-April all routine operations , such as knee and hip replacements , are being cancelled for three months .
Hospitals have plans to keep coronavirus patients separate and supply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All hospital patients with flu-like symptoms are being tested .
Patients with mild symptoms - a high temperature or new and persistent cough - are being asked to self-isolate at home .
Community teams will keep an eye on them if need be .
But people are being advised not to ring NHS 111 to report their symptoms unless they are worried .
How will the NHS treat seriously ill patients ?
Currently there is no treatment or cure , so hospitals are trying to relieve the symptoms .
Specialist ECMO breathing equipment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lungs fail .
There are between 4,000 and 5,000 intensive care beds .
But NHS officials said they can effectively increase that to between 11,000 and 12,000 by using ventilators reserved for planned surgery and those available in the private sector , Ministry of Defence , new ones being made and old stocks that are no longer used .
Ministers are also working with private companies to ramp up production .
A third of patients who need hospital care require intensive care support , evidence from China and Italy suggests .
Doctors warn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be made about which patients get treatment .
What questions do you have about the UK 's coronavirus plans ?
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But NHS officials said they can effectively increase that to between 11,000 and 12,000 by using ventilators reserved for planned surgery and those available in the private sector, Ministry of Defence, new ones being made and old stocks that are no longer used.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: No jury trials longer than three days in England and Wales

No new Crown Court trials will take place in England and Wales if they are expected to last longer than three days , following concerns from lawyers amid the coronavirus crisis .
They had urged a halt to jury trials to stop `` Russian roulette '' with the health of legal staff , jurors and the public .
The government says during the current phase of the outbreak , courts and tribunals will continue to operate .
But long cases listed to start before the end of April will be adjourned .
Pressure on the government and judiciary to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been growing , as jurors and court staff up and down the country heed government advice to self-isolate .
A statement from the Judicial Office said : 'In all jurisdictions steps are being taken to enable as many hearings as possible to be conducted with some or all of the participants attending by telephone , video-link or online . '
However , Crown Courts where jury trials of the most serious criminal cases take place present particular problems because so many participants , judge , jury , defendants , witnesses , lawyers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The statement continued : `` Given the risks of a trial not being able to complete , the Lord Chief Justice has decided that no new trial should start in the Crown Court unless it is expected to last for three days or less .
`` All cases estimated to last longer than three days listed to start before the end of April 2020 will be adjourned .
These cases will be kept under review and the position regarding short trials will be revisited as circumstances develop and in any event next week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken in respect of all cases awaiting trial in the Crown Court . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Trials that are under way will continue in the hope that they can be completed .
Those taking part should follow Public Heath England guidance `` suitably adjusted to reflect the distinct features of a court as a working environment for all concerned , including jurors. ''
.
Some criminal barristers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government to go further .
Responding to the statement , the Criminal Bar Association ( CBA ) - which represents nearly 4,000 members in England and Wales - has called for every jury trial to be delayed for 30 days in order to `` allow the public health impact to be properly assessed '' .
It said : `` Barristers choosing to self isolate in following government advice are entitled to leave trials and will not be in breach of their professional obligations . ''
However , Lord Chancellor Robert Buckland said criminal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play and should go on sitting '' .
Earlier , Amanda Pinto QC , chairwoman of the Bar Council , which represents all barristers in England and Wales , has also called on the government to temporarily end jury trials during the Covid-19 outbreak .
`` We are calling for the Ministry of Justice to put an urgent halt to jury trials for the time being , '' she said .
`` Barristers up and down the country are telling us that jurors are having to drop out of cases because they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court when they should not , and thereby putting everyone 's health at risk .
`` Being in a jury trial should not be a game of Russian roulette with the participants ' health . ''
Court users `` should not be expected to attend court , whilst the rest of the country is very strongly urged to work from home and to avoid 'non-essential contact ' and 'confined spaces ' , '' Ms Pinto argued .
Despite government advice to work from home and avoid contact with others , the latest HM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service is one of the most important civic duties a citizen can undertake and is an essential part of the criminal justice system .
`` If you are serving on a jury now , your jury service will continue as normal and you are expected to attend court unless you have a reason not to ( for example , you have symptoms or need to self-isolate ) . ''
Jurors considering the alleged murder of PC Andrew Harper were sent home on Tuesday after one of them fell ill , and a juror @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plotter Hashem Abedi was discharged from service after they went into self-isolation over the weekend .
Criminal barristers who are unable to attend court due to government advice , `` will remain compliant with their professional duties provided they continue as normal to give due notice to their clients and to the court '' , the CBA added .
There is now a divergence between Westminster and the court systems of Scotland and Northern Ireland .
On Tuesday , the Scottish government announced : `` No new criminal jury trials will be commenced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` This will be kept under review .
`` Where jury trials have already commenced , these will run to conclusion of the trial , if practical to do so . ''
In Northern Ireland , there will likewise be no new jury trials for the foreseeable future after an announcement by the Lord Chief Justice , Sir Declan Morgan .
But jurors serving in a Crown Court trial or an inquest that has already started should continue to attend , the Belfast Telegraph reported .
Many lawyers believe it will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follows suit .
The Lord Chief Justice , Lord Burnett , said earlier that there was an `` urgent need to increase the use of telephone and video technology immediately to hold remote hearings where possible '' in England and Wales .
Emergency legislation is being drafted which is likely to contain clauses that expand the powers in criminal courts to use technology in a wider range of hearings .
The halting of jury trials raises a host of highly challenging issues for a criminal justice system that is already beset by time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court sitting days .
With some defendants held on remand , the time limits for holding in custody are likely to have to be extended .
In addition , barristers and solicitors fear they will not be paid and could go out of business or have to lay off staff in law firms and sets of chambers .
Some believe another option to keep the system going might be to reduce the number of jurors .
During World War Two , legislation was passed to allow juries to sit with seven members , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Law Society Gazette reports that one family judge has imposed emergency measures in Berkshire and Oxfordshire , ordering lawyers to stay at home if possible , despite the government claiming courts will continue to `` operate normally '' .
In an email , His Honour Judge Moradifar , the designated family judge for Berkshire , said all suitable hearings should be conducted via video link , Skype or telephone .
Physical presence in court buildings `` should be kept to a minimum '' , witnesses should give evidence remotely where possible and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , attendance should be limited to advocates , said the judge .

"All cases estimated to last longer than three days listed to start before the end of April 2020 will be adjourned. These cases will be kept under review and the position regarding short trials will be revisited as circumstances develop and in any event next week. As events unfold decisions will be taken in respect of all cases awaiting trial in the Crown Court."


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: What are social distancing and self-isolation?

Everybody in the UK has been asked to stop non-essential contact with other people and avoid all unnecessary travel .
This is known as social distancing .
It follows people with flu-like symptoms being asked to self-isolate at home , to avoid infecting others .
So , what do you need to know about social distancing and self-isolation ?
Social distancing means trying to avoid contact with other people .
It means spending less time in public places , where a lot of people are around .
• People to start working from home wherever possible • Pubs , clubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be avoided • Anyone living with someone who has a cough or a temperature to stay at home for 14 days Within days , it expects to announce measures for people in at-risk groups to stay at home for 12 weeks .
This affects pregnant women , people aged over 70 and those with underlying health conditions .
Self-isolating means cutting yourself off from the rest of the world .
From now on , if one person in a household starts to display flu-like symptoms - defined as a fever of above @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living there must stay at home for 14 days .
Public Health England ( PHE ) currently says that , if possible , you should not go out even to buy food or other essentials , other than to take exercise , and in that case at a safe distance from others .
The person with the symptoms should stay in a well-ventilated room with a window that can be opened , and keep away from other people in the home .
They should ask for help for groceries , other shopping or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the doorstep by friends , family or delivery drivers .
People are being advised not to ring NHS 111 or their GP to report their symptoms unless they are worried .
The Covid-19 disease can cause a fever , cough and breathing problems .
It takes five days on average for people to start showing the symptoms .
What happens if you have a vulnerable person living with you ?
You should keep at least 2m ( 6ft ) back from a vulnerable person during any period of isolation , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spaces , like kitchens , should be minimised and all rooms should be well-ventilated .
Avoid using these rooms at the same time as a vulnerable person .
If they can , they should take their meals back to their room to eat .
A vulnerable person should also use separate towels from the rest of the household .
If possible , they should use a separate bathroom .
If that is not possible , the bathroom should be cleaned every time it 's used ( for example , wiping surfaces with which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ People living with someone in isolation should wash their hands often , using soap and water for at least 20 seconds - especially after coming into contact with them .
Personal waste ( like tissues ) should be double-bagged and put aside for 72 hours before being put in your outside bin .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Will I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statutory sick pay from the first day off work , not the fourth , to help contain coronavirus , the prime minister has said .
This means that people who have to self-isolate or who are ill would get an extra £40 to cover the first four days .
This would take it up to its usual rate of £94.25 per week .
Many casual or agency workers may also be entitled to sick pay but self-employed people are not .
Citizens Advice says people on zero-hours contracts can still get sick pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the meantime , the government says you can claim universal credit or employment and support allowance if you 're prevented from working for public health reasons .
If you need to care for a relative or your child 's school is closed and you need to look after them at short notice , your employer must give you time off , but it may be unpaid .

The current restrictions in England don't include any limits on socialising - so friends and family are legally allowed to see each other in private houses, or to meet in public places like pubs and nightclubs.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: How many confirmed cases are there in your area?

A total of 2,626 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the UK - but the actual number of cases is estimated to be between 35,000 and 50,000 .
The number of deaths is now 104 , according to the latest figures available .
Some 53,595 people in the UK have been tested for the respiratory infection .
All schools in the UK will close from Friday , Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has announced , following a ramping up of measures to tackle the outbreak on Monday .
Find out how many people have confirmed cases in your area : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ click here .
The following charts and graphics will help you understand the situation in the UK and how the authorities are dealing with it .
1 .
The UK has changed course The new coronavirus , which causes the respiratory disease known as Covid-19 , was first confirmed in the UK at the end of January .
While there were a number of people testing positive throughout February , figures in the UK began to increase at the beginning of March .
On Monday 16 March , Prime Minster Boris Johnson announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the virus , including : working from home where possible ; stopping all unnecessary travel and for over 70s to self isolate at home in the coming weeks .
The number of people that have died from the virus in the UK has now risen to 104 according to the latest figures on 18 March .
Confirmed UK figures are lower than other European countries , such as Italy , for example , where there have been more than 35,000 cases and almost 3,000 deaths , according to 18 March figures from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorities have confirmed more than 200,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 8,000 deaths .
There have now been more than 116,000 cases outside China - overtaking the 82,000 in the country where the virus originated in December .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• EASY STEPS : How can I try to stay well ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the pandemic 2 .
We are in the second phase of the government 's response The government has published its action plan for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three phases - contain ; delay ; mitigate - alongside ongoing research .
While the emphasis has been on the contain and research phases up until this week , the country has now moved to the `` delay '' phase to stop the wider spread of the virus .
As part of the delay phase , people with even mild coronavirus symptoms - defined as a temperature above 37.8 C or a `` new , continuous '' cough - are being asked to self-isolate at home for 14 days to protect others and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday , that even if you have no symptoms , you should still : • Stop all non-essential contact with others • Work at home where possible The government is now encouraging self-isolation at home for over 70s , and those more vulnerable to the virus , for 12 weeks from Friday .
British nationals should also avoid all non-essential foreign travel to tackle the spread of coronavirus , the Foreign Office has advised .
If the virus becomes even more widespread , the government may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of mitigation , when health services are asked to focus on critical care and retired NHS staff could be asked to return to work .
3 .
People who think they have coronavirus should self-isolate If you have a `` new , continuous '' cough or high temperature and think you have coronavirus you are advised not to go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
Instead , you and the people you live with should self isolate for 14 days .
If symptoms persist you should contact the NHS 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 111 .

Based on the survey, the estimated peak of the pandemic, in cases if not in deaths, was in late March 2022, where at one point about 4.9 million people were thought to have the virus. However, the survey did not capture the first wave of the pandemic, with trials only beginning in England in April 2020.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: UK schools to close to prevent virus spread

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that schools in the UK will close by this Friday to prevent the further @ @ @ @ @ will close except for looking after the children of keyworkers and vulnerable children .
Exams @ @ @ @ @ education secretary Gavin Williamson has said .

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that schools in the UK will close by this Friday to prevent the further spread of coronavirus.
Schools will close except for looking after the children of keyworkers and vulnerable children.
Exams will not go ahead, education secretary Gavin Williamson has said.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Bank of England boss on pandemic: Don't fire staff

Firms thinking of firing staff due to the coronavirus crisis should consider the support available to them first , the @ @ @ @ @ Andrew Bailey has told BBC News .
It is critical for companies to support their @ @ @ @ @ Andrew Bailey told the BBC 's Economics Editor Faisal Islam .

Firms thinking of firing staff due to the coronavirus crisis should consider the support available to them first, the new Bank of England boss Andrew Bailey has told BBC News.
It is critical for companies to support their workforces at this time, Andrew Bailey told the BBC's Economics Editor Faisal Islam.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--'I'm 110 and I've enjoyed every moment'

'I'm 110 and I've enjoyed every moment'

May Willis was born in 1910 , has lived through two World Wars and has been retired for almost half @ @ @ @ @ resident still lives independently , has never smoked or drunk alcohol and is one of @ @ @ @ @ UK .
She celebrates her 110th birthday on Wednesday .

May Willis was born in 1910, has lived through two World Wars and has been retired for almost half a century.
The Bexhill resident still lives independently, has never smoked or drunk alcohol and is one of the oldest people in the UK.
She celebrates her 110th birthday on Wednesday.


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Widow's plea for help after death leaves family self-isolating

The family of a man who died after contracting coronavirus say they are unable to register his death because they are all in self-isolation .
Earl Sewell , 72 , from Handsworth Wood , Birmingham , who had underlying health conditions , died on Monday at City Hospital .
His wife , two sons , daughter-in-law and three-year-old granddaughter are self-isolating for 14 days .
They were told to register his death within five days , but are `` stuck '' .
Mr Sewell 's widow , Jean , said her husband had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus at home and was taken into hospital .
The couple had been married for 38 years .
Mr Sewell came to Birmingham from Jamaica in the 1960s and worked as a die caster and later in food production .
A father of two sons , Lloyd and Leon , he was a lover of horse racing , and had been due to attend Lloyd 's wedding in the summer .
Mrs Sewell , 68 , said : `` The hospital were wonderful , they did let us stay with him until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are now all in social isolation for 14 days . ''
She said they had tried to obtain the medical certificate they would need to register his death , but had been told it could not be posted `` because of the possibilities it could get into the wrong hands '' .
She said if they were able to receive it , they would not be able to visit a register office .
`` The booklet that the hospital gave us , you ’ re supposed to register the death within five days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is just no process in place , and I know it is early days because there have n't been many deaths yet , but there needs to be something put in place .
`` I am just stuck , I need help or advice . ''
Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust 's chief executive Toby Lewis apologised for the `` distress caused '' .
He said : `` We are arranging to get the death certificate to them in the unconventional circumstances of the current pandemic .
`` For circumstances where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the death certificate , for example because they are self-isolating , we can enable a nominated person to collect this on their behalf or arrange to deliver it directly .
`` These arrangements failed this week and we are working to resolve that . ''
• It must be done within five days ( eight in Scotland ) • A medical certificate is required ( from the GP or hospital doctor ) • Permission is also required from the coroner The family is also calling on others to heed advice over the seriousness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leon said : `` We and dad would like people to not underestimate the global and UK situation , and look after each other , look after neighbours and look after old people and those in need .
`` But do these things at the same time as being safe and reducing risks . ''
Birmingham City Council said that if the family of a deceased person has been told to self-isolate , arrangements can be made for an alternative qualified informant to collect the medical certificate and go to a register office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , someone present at the death or an administrator from the hospital , '' the council said .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
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She said they had tried to obtain the medical certificate they would need to register his death, but had been told it could not be posted "because of the possibilities it could get into the wrong hands".


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Scottish schools 'may be shut until summer'

The first minister has said schools and nurseries across Scotland will close from the end of this week and may not reopen before the summer .
Nicola Sturgeon announced the move as it was confirmed a third patient in Scotland has died after testing positive for Covid-19 .
The total number of coronavirus cases is now 227 , up 32 on Tuesday .
Ms Sturgeon said : `` My view is that it is now inevitable that we will close schools and nurseries .
`` My planning assumption is that schools will close to pupils at the end of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents notice of that . ''
The first minister said the decision was driven by two key factors .
She added : `` First is the science .
I expect that is likely to tell us to close schools .
`` Secondly , schools are reaching the point where they have lost too many staff to continue . ''
Ms Sturgeon said Education Secretary John Swinney would set out arrangements on Thursday and address questions about exams and what it meant for key workers .
She said : `` We are still working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this will mean . ''
Ms Sturgeon added : `` The clearest guidance I can give is that schools and nurseries will not reopen after the Easter break .
`` At this stage I can not promise that they will reopen before the summer holidays . ''
The first minister said : `` People 's way of life will be changing dramatically , and potentially for some time to come .
`` Lives are being disrupted like never before . ''
Education secretary John Swinney said the advice from the scientific community suggests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` flattening the curve '' .
Mr Swinney also said the move would help suppress the rise in cases .
He told BBC Radio Scotland 's Drivetime : `` It is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain education . ''
Staff and pupil absences have soared in recent days and some schools have been closed for deep cleaning .
Mr Swinney also described closing schools and nurseries as `` perhaps the most difficult decision we have had to come to so far '' during the outbreak .
He added : `` We recognise this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public . ''
The focus will now switch to digital learning and Glow , the Scottish schools national intranet .
Mr Swinney added : `` We are in really quite exceptional times and we have to take realistic and pragmatic decisions . ''
The education secretary said one of the key issues that still has to be finalised is how children of essential workers , like NHS staff , are looked after while they are at work .
But Mr Swinney said although schools would be closed , there would be `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service '' .
He said there were three options for the spring 's SQA exam diet : • It goes ahead as planned • It is re-scheduled for a later date • Or an `` alternative certification mechanism '' is introduced which would be based on a variety of different pieces of work and teacher feedback .
More details will be announced in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday .
The Scottish Qualifications Authority described the school closures as `` a very serious and evolving situation '' .
A spokesman said : `` Every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain partially open to allow senior phase pupils to complete learning and be able to submit coursework , in addition to being able to open as examination centres during the diet , should medical and scientific advice allow .
`` As you would expect , the SQA is working through a range of scenarios , including in the event that there is significant disruption to the diet .
`` In the meantime , we strongly suggest that schools and colleges continue to prioritise the completion of coursework , including for those subjects with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : What should I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: NI schools to close due to Covid-19 pandemic

Schools across Northern Ireland are to close to pupils from Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic , First Minister Arlene Foster has said .
Six new cases of the virus were confirmed in NI on Wednesday , bringing the total number to 68 .
Schools in England , Scotland and Wales will close from Friday .
A number of NI schools had already decided to close for the rest of this week .
Some are listed on the NI Direct website .
At a press conference on Wednesday , Mrs Foster , standing alongside Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shut schools .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
`` We have agreed that all schools will close to pupils from Monday 23 March , '' Mrs Foster said .
`` The societal and economic impact of this measure will be enormous as parents have to adjust their routine to deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added it was a time of `` unprecedented challenge '' and that the closure would last into the summer .
Stormont sources had earlier incorrectly said schools would close immediately for pupils , and for staff from Monday .
Teaching unions had called on Arlene Foster and Michelle O'Neill to set a date for school closures .
Mrs Foster said exploring `` how schools can continue to be a base for the education of children whose parents are health service staff or other key workers such as the blue light services '' is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not cease and remote learning and home packs for self study are already being explored over the period ahead , '' she added .
She said clear guidance from the exam bodies is being sought on A-levels and GSCEs , and further details will be made public .
Some clarity , yes , but questions remain A lot of work has to begin now .
For instance , teaching and learning is planned to continue , albeit remotely and a number of schools have put online plans in place , but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We also know attempts are being made to put in place so-called skeleton schools for the children of healthcare and emergency workers , so could some schools stay open as hub schools for those children ?
Efforts are also ongoing to find a way to give free school meals to the 100,000 eligible children .
And we do n't know if all childcare facilities are closing .
Today 's announcement was about schools , and that would include state nursery schools and nursery units , but it 's not yet clear if private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As regards exams , the education secretary in England has said A-Levels and GCSE exams this year , in May and June , will not go ahead .
That seems to indicate there will be no actual physical exams taking place either in Northern Ireland , as the exam regulators across the UK have to act together .
But to be clear , there will still be grades awarded for GCSEs and A-Levels .
So there will be no exams but there will be results .
What we do n't know is exactly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mrs O'Neill said there was one priority at this time - `` to save lives and to mind people '' .
`` We are going to launch a communities response plan , where the voluntary and community sector 's emergency leadership group come together to deal with issues such as tackling poverty , food poverty , free school meals , those self-isolating and those people that are connecting with communities , '' she said .
She also announced a £370m package of measures to help businesses .
`` We are going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an enhanced discretionary support fund , explore support for people in terms of rents , '' she added .
`` We need to look at all these issues and we will communicate all those things to the public in the time ahead . ''
Teachers ' union the INTO said the schools closure announcement `` ends the uncertainty for teachers and school leaders , at last '' .
`` This is a worrying time for all concerned but today 's decision will go some way to reducing the additional stress levels principals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people have been enduring over the last week , '' said INTO northern secretary , Gerry Murphy .
Across the UK , confirmed cases of the virus rose to 2,626 on Wednesday , from 1,950 on Tuesday .
A total of 71 people have died .
The UK death toll has now reached 104 after 32 more people died in England after testing positive .
Schools and colleges in the Republic of Ireland have been closed since last Thursday .
Some politicians , including Mrs O'Neill , had been calling for the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There are currently 292 confirmed cases in the Republic after 69 new cases were revealed on Tuesday .
On Monday all 10 special schools in Belfast announced they were to close indefinitely .
• Libraries NI are to close all public libraries and out of hours access from 17:00 on Friday until further notice • Hospitality firm , Beannchor Group , has announced the temporary lay-off of up to 800 staff • National Trust opening many of their gardens and park for free but houses , cafes and shops to close • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services across the island of Ireland • Apprentice Boys of Derry pull Easter parade and all meetings and services • Sainsbury 's and Asda limit sales of all food items amid stockpiling • Confirmed cases pass 200,000 worldwide and more than 8,000 people have died


bbcuk--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Schools in Wales all closing by Friday

All schools in Wales will close by Friday at the latest in response to the coronavirus outbreak , the Welsh Government has announced .
The country 's Education Minister Kirsty Williams said she was bringing forward the Easter break .
All school exams this summer have been cancelled , she confirmed .
It comes as England and Scotland took similar steps with all schools and nurseries closing from the end of the week and may not reopen before summer .
The total number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Wales has reached 149 , although the figure is likely to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will help ensure an orderly closure , so schools have time to prepare , '' said Ms Williams .
• School closures : What will happen now ?
`` Children will be off for four weeks but I have to be clear with parents , I am not anticipating we will be able to get schools back to normal at the end of the Easter break [ or ] for a considerable period of time . ''
Ms Williams also said this summer 's exams would not go ahead , with GCSE ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 ) students to be graded on the work already completed .
`` We recognise there are no easy choices but we have agreed that the best way forward is not to proceed with summer exam series , '' she said .
`` Learners due to sit their GCSEs and A-levels this summer will be awarded a fair grade to recognise their work , drawing on the range of information that is available . ''
The performance of individual schools will also not be measured by the results .
Regulatory body Qualifications Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it gave `` clarity '' to pupils , parents and teachers during an `` unprecedented '' situation .
`` In this extreme circumstance with widespread global disruption , there is no ideal scenario for exams which , by nature , run as carefully controlled events , '' it said in a statement .
`` Our priority is ensuring fairness for learners while following public health advice . ''
Childcare centres are expected to remain open until advice is given to close .
The Welsh Government spokesperson said some schools would be `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children and the children of keyworkers dealing with the response to the outbreak .
`` We will continue to ensure the Welsh NHS has the resources it needs to deal with the coronavirus outbreak , '' said a spokesperson .
Headteachers body NAHT Cymru welcomed the announcement , while Eithne Hughes , director of the Association of School and College Leaders ( ASCL ) Cymru , said it was `` the right decision at the right time '' .
What do parents think ?
Parents have broadly agreed with the decision but said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One parent , an IT manager who has children at Ysgol Melin Gruffydd in Cardiff , said both him and his wife - a hospital ward sister - worked full time .
`` Work is very accommodating but that 's challenging with four small children , '' he said .
`` There are online courses [ the children ] can do but they 'll lose that social interaction . ''
Another parent added : `` It 's the right decision but it will have a huge impact .
The difficult thing is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will last . ''
The announcement was made almost simultaneously as the Scottish Government 's decision that schools are expected to shut by the end of the week .
England then followed with a similar closure until further notice , Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said schools would close except for the children of keyworkers , such as NHS staff , and vulnerable children .
Ms Williams said from next week , schools would have a `` new purpose '' .
`` They will help support those most in need , including people involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak , '' she added .
`` I am working with my colleagues in the cabinet , with government officials and our partners in local government to develop and finalise these plans . ''
Ms Williams told AMs that she was aware of the `` stress and anxiety '' the uncertainty had caused young people and teachers .
She said she had discussed the issue with her ministerial counterparts in England and Scotland and `` all three of us are grappling with the same issue '' .
Plaid Cymru 's education spokesperson Sian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alongside clear guidelines from the education minister on the short-term role of schools .
Conservative shadow education minister Suzy Davies said the worrying question was whether schools would be able to reopen after Easter , adding it looked `` unlikely '' .
`` Schools will continue to offer educational and social support to some children , and this is to be welcomed , '' she added .
EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

"Children will be off for four weeks but I have to be clear with parents, I am not anticipating we will be able to get schools back to normal at the end of the Easter break [or] for a considerable period of time."


bbcuk--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Queen urges UK to 'work as one' in message to nation

The Queen has issued a message to the nation on the coronavirus outbreak , saying the UK is “ entering a period of great concern and uncertainty ” .
The 93-year-old praised the work of scientists , medics and emergency staff , but added that everyone has a `` vitally important part to play '' .
Her message came just ahead of the PM 's daily briefing , in which he said the UK could `` turn the tide '' in 12 weeks .
The monarch said she and her family `` stand ready to play our part '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ official duties because of the crisis , and is now at Windsor Castle with the Duke of Edinburgh .
He was flown there by helicopter from the Sandringham estate where he had been staying .
The virus has now seen 144 people who tested positive die in the UK .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
In her statement , the Queen said : `` Our nation ’ s history has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together to work as one .
`` We are all being advised to change our normal routines and regular patterns of life for the greater good of the communities we live in and , in particular , to protect the most vulnerable within them .
`` At times such as these , I am reminded that our nation 's history has been forged by people and communities coming together to work as one , concentrating our combined efforts with a focus on the common goal . ''
She added : “ Many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of staying in touch with each other and making sure that loved ones are safe .
I am certain we are up to that challenge .
`` You can be assured that my family and I stand ready to play our part.
” The Queen 's message came after Buckingham Palace announced last week that changes were being made to her diary commitments `` as a sensible precaution '' .
She has cancelled her annual garden parties , along with visits to several UK towns .
The government is advising everyone in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avoid all non-essential contact .
The advanced age of both the Queen , who is the world 's longest reigning monarch , and Philip , who is 98 , means they are more at risk of complications if they catch the Covid-19 illness .
They are expected to remain at Windsor beyond Easter with fewer staff , as a precaution .
In his news briefing , Boris Johnson said he did not know how long the crisis would affect the UK , but said he hoped to `` get on top of it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said trials of a vaccine were expected to begin within a month and warned he would `` enforce '' Londoners to be kept apart `` if necessary '' .
He also urged businesses to `` stand by their employees '' , adding that the chancellor would be making further announcements on Friday .
From Friday , all schools in the UK will close their doors to nearly all pupils , except vulnerable ones and the children of key workers .
A full list of key workers , likely to include NHS workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is also expected .
Meanwhile , Prince Harry , who is due to step down as a senior royal at the end of the month , has said the Invictus Games he set up have been postponed for a year .
In a video message , he urged participants to look after fellow servicemen who may be most vulnerable during periods of social isolation .
`` Please look after yourselves , look after your families , please look out for one another '' , he said .


bbcuk--2020-03-19--PM: We can 'turn the tide' on coronavirus crisis

The UK can `` turn the tide '' on the coronavirus crisis within 12 weeks , Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said .
But pressed on what he meant by the three-month timescale , he said he did not know how long it would go on for .
He said trials on a vaccine were expected to begin within a month and warned he would `` enforce '' Londoners to be kept apart `` if necessary '' .
Earlier , in a message to the nation , the Queen urged people to come together for the common good .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reporters : `` I believe that a combination of the measures that we 're asking the public to take and better testing , scientific progress , will enable us to get on top of it within the next 12 weeks and turn the tide .
`` I can not stand here and tell you that by the end of June that we will be on the downward slope .
`` It 's possible but I simply ca n't say that that 's for certain , '' he added .
`` We do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on for .
But what I can say is that this is going to be finite . ''
• Analysis : UK 's already huge changes may just be the start Earlier Sir Patrick Vallance , the UK 's chief scientific officer , was also asked how long it would go on for .
`` We are dealing with a brand new virus .
We are dealing with learning as we go on and I think now to put absolute timelines on things is not possible . ''
In the press conference on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closing down public transport in London but pointed out people in some parts of London were not following government guidance on social distancing and would be `` enforced '' to do so if necessary .
`` I know how difficult it may be or it may seem right now , but if we do this together , we will save many , many thousands of lives , '' he added .
He also urged businesses to stand by their employees `` because we will stand by you '' , adding that his chancellor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Later , Health Secretary Matt Hancock pledged to rush protective personal equipment ( PPE ) to frontline NHS staff and social care providers , following concern workers were being put at risk by shortages .
Speaking on BBC1 's Question Time , Mr Hancock said the UK had shipped 2.6 million masks and 10,000 bottles of hand sanitiser in the last 24 hours .
He promised that `` overnight 150 hospitals will get the next pack of protective equipment they need… every single hospital will get their next batch of equipment before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social care providers would get a package of personal protective equipment by the end of next week .
In response to a government appeal for more ventilator makers , 1,400 companies had offered to switch their operations to help manufacturer them , including Formula One , he said .
He added that officials would work with leading companies to radically increase the number of coronavirus tests , after the government pledged 25,000 tests per day within four weeks .
He also said the government has bought a test which can detect whether someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to it .
The press conference came as Italy 's death toll rose by 427 to 3,405 , overtaking China 's toll .
In the UK , 144 people with coronavirus have died , and 3,269 people have tested positive for it .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
Speaking alongside the PM , Prof Chris Whitty , the UK 's chief medical adviser , warned there would be a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stem the spread of the virus would slow down case numbers .
He said there would be a `` global issue '' in the supply of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , saying NHS workers were right to complain about the shortages .
In other developments across the globe : • The EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier tests positive for the virus • Asian countries are seeing a second wave of infections from people returning home • UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said a number of British nationals - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Peru because of restrictions imposed in the country • Confirmed cases worldwide have passed 220,000 , while almost 9,000 people have died • The Cannes Film Festival , due to be held in May , is postponed The Queen , who is now in Windsor Castle with the Duke of Edinburgh , said in her statement that the world was `` entering a period of great uncertainty '' and every individual had `` a vitally important part to play '' .
`` Many of us will need to find new ways of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making sure that loved ones are safe - I am certain we are up to that challenge , '' she added .
`` You can be assured that my family and I stand ready to play our part . ''
Even if the tide starts to turn in 12 weeks and the number of cases starts to fall , then we will still be far from the end .
It can take a long time for the tide to go out .
It is clear the current strategy of shutting down large parts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long-term .
But the coronavirus is not going to disappear .
For as long as large numbers of people in the UK have no immunity then cases will soar as soon as restrictions are lifted .
A vaccine would help , but that could be 18 months away .
If enough people are exposed and become immune then that would help too , however , this is likely to take even longer than a vaccine .
Efforts to rigorously test and then isolate anyone infected can help suppress the numbers of people infected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing just a few weeks ago .
We may enter a period of restrictions being lifted and then re-imposed until a long-term solution is found .
From Friday , all schools in the UK will close their doors to nearly all pupils , except vulnerable ones and the children of key workers .
A full list of key workers , likely to include NHS workers , school staff and delivery drivers , is expected later .
In Wales , parents were told by education minister Kirsty Williams that schools may not reopen until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Wales and Scotland have been cancelled .
A level and GCSE exams in Northern Ireland will not go ahead this summer but pupils will get results , the education minister Peter Weir said .
In other developments in the UK : • Tonight , we 'll be bringing you more answers to your questions on Coronavirus in a Question Time special presented by Fiona Bruce , at 8pm on BBC One .
Panellists include Matt Hancock , the Health Secretary .
• The Bank of England has cut interest rates from 0.25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level in their history .
• The Football Association announces all professional football in England will suspended until at least 30 April • Britain 's energy suppliers are to help vulnerable customers through the crisis .
Measures will include customers who can not afford their bills getting support from their supplier • Up to 40 underground stations will be shut on Thursday and a reduced service will run from Friday .
Mayor Sadiq Khan told Londoners to avoid public transport `` unless absolutely necessary ''

Speaking in Downing Street, Mr Johnson told reporters: "I believe that a combination of the measures that we're asking the public to take and better testing, scientific progress, will enable us to get on top of it within the next 12 weeks and turn the tide.