bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Can you compare the UK with Italy?

The UK has now overtaken Italy to have the highest number of officially recorded coronavirus deaths in Europe .
The figures - announced by both governments daily - show a total of 29,427 deaths in the UK and 29,315 in Italy .
But can you make a fair comparison between the two countries ?
There are challenges around doing this at the moment and here are some of the factors to take into account .
For a start , the UK 's population is roughly 66 million , and Italy 's is about 60 million .
So the UK would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more deaths than Italy for it to have a higher death rate per person .
Given that Italy is further past the peak of the outbreak , and is now recording significantly fewer deaths per day than the UK , that may well happen .
2 .
The two countries may not be counting the same way The different ways different countries count deaths also need to be considered .
`` Every country measures deaths in a different way , '' the UK government 's chief medical adviser Chris Whitty said at one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to each other is a largely fruitless exercise '' .
On the face of it , Italy and the UK now do it in fairly similar ways - only including confirmed Covid-19 cases in their cumulative daily counts .
But while it is safe to assume the figures for the numbers of deaths in hospitals are fairly accurate , can the same be said about deaths in care homes or at home ?
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There is no national figure in Italy for deaths in care homes - the numbers are collated on a regional basis and slightly different measures are being used in different parts of the country .
But , says Eleonora Perobelli , a researcher at the Observatory on Long Term Care in Milan , `` the vast majority of officially confirmed Covid-19 related deaths are registered in hospitals '' .
We do know that the UK figures as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who died `` in a community setting ' '' - in other words outside hospital .
We also know that there were relatively few tests carried out in care homes until recently .
But in Italy , we simply do n't know how many of the Italian deaths may have occurred outside hospital .
So it is difficult in this case to be confident that we really are comparing like with like .
Given that the daily figures released by both governments are for people who have died after testing positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on is clearly important .
To use an extreme example , if neither country had tested any people at all , nobody would have died after testing positive .
On the other hand , if everybody in the country had been tested the deaths figure would have been much higher .
The UK is currently testing more people per day than Italy , but overall Italy , which has been in lockdown longer , has carried out more than 2.2 million tests as of 5 May while the UK has done over 1.3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ based on people who have tested positive for the virus , that is a crucial distinction , which makes comparing the figures problematic .
4 .
What is the age and health of the population ?
The most useful comparison to make between two countries looks at the total number of deaths from all causes adjusted for age .
Why would you adjust for age ?
We know that coronavirus affects older people more severely than younger people .
Older people are much more likely to have the underlying health conditions that make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK for example , in the week to 24 April , we know that coronavirus killed : • Four per 100,000 people under the age of 75 • 75 per 100,000 of the 75-84 group Italy has a higher proportion of older people and a smaller proportion of children ( who are much less likely to be severely affected ) so , if all other factors were equal , you would expect more coronavirus deaths in Italy than the UK .
The other thing you might want to adjust for would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which would be relevant for how many people you would expect to die in a given period .
This is usually expressed by giving the number of excess deaths .
If you were looking for the number of excess deaths in April , for example , it would be the number of people who have died minus the average number of deaths in April over the previous five years .
It is important to compare with the same period in previous years because we expect more people to die in winter than in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February when the first coronavirus death was reported until the end of March , there were 90,946 deaths from all causes , compared with the average of 65,592 for the previous five years - that 's an excess of 25,354 deaths .
If you compare that with the six-week period after the first coronavirus death in the UK , there were far fewer excess deaths - 89,735 people died from all causes in the UK , compared with an average of 72,812 in the same period of the previous five years , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What about population density and other factors ?
Other factors surrounding the disease - the epidemiology - also have to be taken into account .
It 's not just about the size of your population .
You also have to take account of the way that population is distributed around the country , and of relevant characteristics such as underlying health conditions .
We know that the density of population is important for the spreading of coronavirus - it 's much more difficult to keep your distance in a crowded area .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ densely populated , with about 275 people per sq km compared with about 205 in Italy .
And the most crowded part of the UK is London , which is Europe 's largest and most global city .
It 's hardly surprising that it has been one of the epicentres of this outbreak .
But if we compare London ( population roughly nine million ) with Lombardy ( population roughly 10 million ) , which has been the worst hit region of Italy , we see just how bad things have been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Italian statistics agency IStat show that deaths in Lombardy during March 2020 were 186.5 % above the five-year average for that time of year , but in the province around the city of Bergamo they were 567.6 % above the average .
That helps explain why the shocking scenes of overcrowding that were seen in some Italian hospitals have not been replicated in London hospitals .
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Coronavirus: Can you compare the UK with Italy? Published 7 May 2020
Image source, Getty Images
The UK has now overtaken Italy to have the highest number of officially recorded coronavirus deaths in Europe.
The figures - announced by both governments daily - show a total of 29,427 deaths in the UK and 29,315 in Italy.
But can you make a fair comparison between the two countries?
There are challenges around doing this at the moment and here are some of the factors to take into account.
1. Population sizes
For a start, the UK's population is roughly 66 million, and Italy's is about 60 million.
So the UK would have to register at least 10% more deaths than Italy for it to have a higher death rate per person.
Given that Italy is further past the peak of the outbreak, and is now recording significantly fewer deaths per day than the UK, that may well happen.
Image source, Getty Images
2. The two countries may not be counting the same way
The different ways different countries count deaths also need to be considered.
"Every country measures deaths in a different way," the UK government's chief medical adviser Chris Whitty said at one daily briefing, "so comparing them to each other is a largely fruitless exercise".
On the face of it, Italy and the UK now do it in fairly similar ways - only including confirmed Covid-19 cases in their cumulative daily counts.
But while it is safe to assume the figures for the numbers of deaths in hospitals are fairly accurate, can the same be said about deaths in care homes or at home?
There is no national figure in Italy for deaths in care homes - the numbers are collated on a regional basis and slightly different measures are being used in different parts of the country.
But, says Eleonora Perobelli, a researcher at the Observatory on Long Term Care in Milan, "the vast majority of officially confirmed Covid-19 related deaths are registered in hospitals".
We do know that the UK figures as of 5 May include more than 4,600 people who died "in a community setting'"- in other words outside hospital. We also know that there were relatively few tests carried out in care homes until recently.
But in Italy, we simply don't know how many of the Italian deaths may have occurred outside hospital.
So it is difficult in this case to be confident that we really are comparing like with like.
Image source, Getty Images
3. Testing
Given that the daily figures released by both governments are for people who have died after testing positive for coronavirus, how much testing is going on is clearly important.
To use an extreme example, if neither country had tested any people at all, nobody would have died after testing positive. On the other hand, if everybody in the country had been tested the deaths figure would have been much higher.
The UK is currently testing more people per day than Italy, but overall Italy, which has been in lockdown longer, has carried out more than 2.2 million tests as of 5 May while the UK has done over 1.3 million.
For daily figures that are based on people who have tested positive for the virus, that is a crucial distinction, which makes comparing the figures problematic.
Image source, Getty Images
4. What is the age and health of the population?
The most useful comparison to make between two countries looks at the total number of deaths from all causes adjusted for age.
Why would you adjust for age?
We know that coronavirus affects older people more severely than younger people. Older people are much more likely to have the underlying health conditions that make coronavirus so much more dangerous.
In the UK for example, in the week to 24 April, we know that coronavirus killed:
Four per 100,000 people under the age of 75
75 per 100,000 of the 75-84 group
242 per 100,000 people over 85
Italy has a higher proportion of older people and a smaller proportion of children (who are much less likely to be severely affected) so, if all other factors were equal, you would expect more coronavirus deaths in Italy than the UK.
The other thing you might want to adjust for would be the overall health of the population, which would be relevant for how many people you would expect to die in a given period.
This is usually expressed by giving the number of excess deaths. If you were looking for the number of excess deaths in April, for example, it would be the number of people who have died minus the average number of deaths in April over the previous five years.
It is important to compare with the same period in previous years because we expect more people to die in winter than in summer.
In Italy, from 20 February when the first coronavirus death was reported until the end of March, there were 90,946 deaths from all causes, compared with the average of 65,592 for the previous five years - that's an excess of 25,354 deaths.
It would be best to compare that with the six-week period after the first coronavirus death in the UK. The excess deaths figures are published weekly by the ONS.
You could take the six weeks starting with the week to 6 March, because that is when the first death occurred. If you do that then you find that 89,735 people died from all causes in the UK, compared with an average of 72,812 in the same period of the previous five years, which is an excess of 16,923.
But you could also start a week later, which is when the first death was registered and so appears in the ONS figures. If you do that you get a figure of almost 30,000 excess deaths.
So it is probably too early to make this comparison - it currently only appears to be a measure of how fast the virus spread. Given another month of extra data for Italy we might be able to make a meaningful comparison.
Image source, Getty Images
5. What about population density and other factors?
Other factors surrounding the disease - the epidemiology - also have to be taken into account.
It's not just about the size of your population.
You also have to take account of the way that population is distributed around the country, and of relevant characteristics such as underlying health conditions.
We know that the density of population is important for the spreading of coronavirus - it's much more difficult to keep your distance in a crowded area.
Overall, the UK is considerably more densely populated, with about 275 people per sq km compared with about 205 in Italy.
And the most crowded part of the UK is London, which is Western Europe's largest and most global city. It's hardly surprising that it has been one of the epicentres of this outbreak.
But if London (population roughly nine million) has been the worst hit region in the UK, then Lombardy (population roughly 10 million and more widely dispersed) has been the worst hit region in Italy.
Figures from the Italian statistics agency IStat show just how bad things have been in parts of northern Italy. Deaths in Lombardy during March 2020 were 186.5% above the five-year average for that time of year, and in the specific area around the city of Bergamo they were 567.6% above the average.
That's higher than in London, and helps explain why the shocking scenes of overcrowding that were seen in some Italian hospitals have not been replicated in London hospitals.
But it's also worth emphasising that the virus hit northern Italy before it hit the UK, and Lombardy had less time to prepare. In parts of southern Italy, the number of deaths recorded this year is actually below the five year average.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Sewage study could predict second Covid-19 peak

Analysing sewage could help scientists predict a second peak of Covid-19 up to two weeks before people become symptomatic .
A team from Bangor University has been looking at samples from water treatment works across Wales in a bid to trace how many people have been infected .
The team has previously tracked norovirus through the sewage system .
People start to shed the virus in faeces up to two weeks before the onset of symptoms .
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Prof Davey Jones , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ study , said : `` It may be gives us a two weeks window in which we can actually monitor whether Covid is going up or down in the population before it actually hits the hospitals . ''
He said it was an effective method for tracing viruses partly because it is possible to capture data on the majority of the population in a relatively cheap and simple way .
`` We want to understand where and when Covid-19 infections are occurring within Wales , '' he said .
`` So far what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales the number of virus particles in the sewage is really , really low , suggesting there is almost no Covid-19 circulating in the population .
`` In contrast in north-east Wales and south-east Wales the numbers of Covid-19 virus in waste water are really , really high suggesting they are infection hot spots at the moment . ''
He said the findings were in line with what they were expecting , given the numbers of confirmed cases in Wales .
`` It 's important to understand how many cases we have in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important to understand how many asymptomatic carriers that we have , '' he said .
`` Those are the people who might have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all .
It could be that they are an important source of infection within the community . ''
He said in Wales about 75 % of the population were connected to 21 individual treatment plants operated by Welsh Water .
`` Looking at the genetic code of the virus we can see whether different parts of Wales have different areas being infected by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
`` If we want to we could also drill into individual regions within a city such as Cardiff and evaluate whether different parts of the city are more infected than others . ''
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Steve Wilson , managing director of waste water services for Dwr Cymru Welsh Water , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus that 's present in the community every week and actually over the last four to five weeks there has been a steady decrease in the amount of virus week on week .
`` So it 's an effective way of understanding whether the virus is spreading further or actually the lockdown and containment strategies we are all adopting is having the desired effect . ''
A similar study is under way at Newcastle University .
A spokesperson for the UK government 's Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( Defra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the research community and government scientific advisers to investigate whether monitoring waste water could be used as a way of tracking the prevalence of the virus '' .
A Welsh Government spokesman said : `` The research proposal has been shared with the technical advisory group and we are actively in dialogue with the research lead at Bangor University to discuss how the data can contribute to our understanding of the virus . ''

Prof Davey Jones, who is leading the School of Natural Sciences study, said: "It may be gives us a two weeks window in which we can actually monitor whether Covid is going up or down in the population before it actually hits the hospitals."


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Brecon sheep help Welsh rugby club cut grass in lockdown

A flock of sheep have been moved onto a Welsh rugby pitch during the lockdown while sports fixtures are on hold during the coronavirus crisis .
Brecon Rugby Club have rented their pitch to club chairman Paul Amphlett , who is also a shepherd , to make money while his sheep help cut the grass .
`` They 're doing a good job , '' said Brecon coach and ex-Wales star Andy Powell .
Retired paramedic Mr Amphlett , 57 , has now returned to his old job to help fight coronavirus on the front line .
The flock of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home on the rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons to Brecon 's Parc de Pugh home ground so volunteers can check in on the animals while he 's on shift with the Welsh Ambulance Service .
`` They are penned in on the pitch , so they ca n't just wander up into town , '' said Mr Amphlett .
`` But they need to be looked after because if they roll onto their backs they often ca n't get back up . ''
Mr Amphlett retired as a full time paramedic four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is returning because he `` did n't want to let my training as a paramedic go to waste in these difficult times '' .
`` The club needed to find a way to make and save some money during lockdown , '' he added .
`` I said I 'd pay rent if they let me graze my sheep on the pitch .
This in turn allowed us to keep our 73-year-old groundsman safely tucked away and also saved us some money on fertiliser . ''
Brecon , who play in Welsh rugby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Plate champions , are coached by former Wales international Powell after the former Cardiff Blues forward returned to his home-town club .
`` The sheep are doing a good job , the grass is nice and green and healthy , '' said Powell .
`` We 're just looking forward to getting back on the pitch and playing . ''
Mr Amphlett , who has been Brecon 's chairman for three years , has also raised more than £3,000 for NHS charities by calling for people to name his flock at a minimum @ @ @ @ @ @ @

"I said I'd pay rent if they let me graze my sheep on the pitch. This in turn allowed us to keep our 73-year-old groundsman safely tucked away and also saved us some money on fertiliser."


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: How will you commute to work after lockdown?

The traditional commute may never be the same again once people return to work after lockdown in what is likely to be an era of social distancing .
It 's a particularly big problem for workers in the UK 's largest cities .
One recent report warned that maintaining a 2m ( 6ft 6in ) distance between Tube passengers in London , for example , would reduce its capacity to 15 % of normal levels , and buses to 12 % .
But if more people take to the streets , will the road network cope ?
`` If in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ radical shift to bicycles , scooters , other ways of getting about , that would require a sudden and radical change in road use , '' said Prof Tony Travers from the London School of Economics .
`` You have to move people quickly through streets and the easiest place to do that is main roads .
But they are used by buses , taxis , delivery vehicles and other essential vehicles .
Changing road use does n't happen quickly . ''
The use of public transport would also need to be staggered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lasting perhaps for five-hour stretches , and spaces being allocated , Prof Travers suggested .
Previous experience suggests this would not be an easy change to bring about .
`` Public transport operators have spent decades trying to get users to spread the rush hour , '' he said .
`` It would be hard to do this voluntarily .
You would have to have some degree of people , in effect , being allocated slots . ''
It would also have knock-on consequences for other aspects of daily life .
`` Will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ licensing laws so they can be open for longer ?
How about parents with children who need to collect them from school ? ''
he said .
`` It has profound implications for how businesses work . ''
So - what is the best alternative ?
They 're largely banned on UK public roads and pavements , but e-scooter sales have doubled year-on-year for Somerset-based retailer Pure Electric .
It sold 135 e-scooters in a single day last week , and 11,500 last year .
`` Electrification is coming - it 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' says chief executive Adam Norris .
His firm also sells e-bikes .
Mr Norris 's UK-wide best-selling e-scooter is the M365 from Chinese budget brand Xiaomi .
They have a speed cap of 15km/h ( 10mph ) and he suggests they 're ideal for journeys of around two to four miles , with e-bikes taking a slightly longer haul .
E-scooters are a common sight in many cities around the world including Paris and LA but officially in the UK they are only allowed on private land .
The government was planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but campaigners have long warned of the dangers to both pedestrians and riders .
In 2019 TV presenter Emily Hartridge , 35 , was riding an electric scooter when she was killed in a collision with a lorry in south London .
However , Mr Norris thinks a change in the law is `` logical '' following the rise in consumer demand , and he believes that with sensible precautions such as high-vis clothing and newer models with larger wheels to tackle potholes , safety can be improved .
`` Safety is important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they limit all e-scooters to the same speed as electric bikes , what 's the difference ? ''
Analyst Carolina Milanesi , from Creative Futures , thinks even with the right legislation in place , people may be less likely to want to hire electric vehicles , a service offered by firms like Lime and Bird .
`` I am not sure if e-bikes and scooters are necessarily the way people will go unless they invest in them themselves , rather than using hire services which would require them to clean them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Take your own car Anthony Eskinazi runs the platform Just Park , which lets people offer their parking spaces up for rent .
He says the firm is considering turning its own 300 car parks into storage for scooters and bikes .
He believes `` the balance between congestion and convenience '' may mean car owners wo n't want to use individual vehicles for very long once traffic builds up .
`` I think parking demand will surge after lockdown but it wo n't be sustainable , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If the government can facilitate it we will see a boom in micro-mobility . ''
By its own admission , lockdown has proved to be a challenging time for Uber , which says it is now `` preparing for the next phase of recovery '' .
It is supplying PPE gloves and masks to all its drivers and is considering calls to pay them a small fee if they take time out between passengers to clean their vehicle interiors .
`` I do wonder what the impact on Lyft and Uber will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` What will these companies have to disclose to grow trust that the driver or the passenger is safe ? ''
Uber might adapt a newly launched driver ID tool to ask drivers to upload selfies to prove they are wearing masks at work , it said .
The firm is also developing its own driverless car - but it was only allowed back on the roads in California two months ago following a fatal crash in 2018 .
If all else fails , how about a flying taxi ?
You might have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drone taxi designs floating around ( sorry ) but as yet no regular service in any one country .
`` I have been watching empty buses drive past for the last few weeks , and every time I think of how great it would be to provide small-scale public transport with robot taxis , '' says Dr Steve Wright , associate professor in aerospace engineering at the University of the West of England .
`` I really want these taxis to be flying ones too , but I think I am going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is probably going to hinder the Evtol [ vertical take off and landing ] revolution more than encourage it .
`` The meltdown going on in the airlines is probably going to drag down the whole aviation industry . ''

"I am not sure if e-bikes and scooters are necessarily the way people will go unless they invest in them themselves, rather than using hire services which would require them to clean them when they get them," she said.


bbcuk--2020-05-04--Coronation Street: Coercive control is 'all of our business'

Warning : This article contains spoilers for the current Yasmeen and Geoff storyline in Coronation Street .
Millions of people have watched for months as a man has chipped away at his partner 's confidence and identity .
While the relationship between Coronation Street 's Yasmeen Nazir and Geoff Metcalfe culminated in violence on ITV on Friday , a charity has warned similar stories are playing out in real life behind closed doors .
The Coronation Street team hopes its story - which has coincided with an increase in calls to domestic abuse helplines during the coronavirus lockdown - will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ storyline has seen Yasmeen - played by Shelley King - gradually pushed away from friends and family , humiliated and tormented by her husband Geoff , played by Ian Bartholomew , in a textbook case of coercive control .
The relationship came to a bloody head in Friday 's episode as Yasmeen lashed out with a wine bottle , leaving Geoff bleeding from the neck .
Calls to domestic abuse charities jumped 49 % in the first weeks of the covid restrictions and domestic abuse charity Women 's Aid says there have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ episodes of the soap aired .
`` Now more than ever it is so important to get that message out there , '' says Ian Bartholomew .
The writers and producers worked with domestic abuse charities on the storyline to make sure it gave an accurate depiction .
Producer Iain Macleod says : `` If they read the scripts and did n't think something was right we would get rid of it .
`` There is the potential to do as much harm as good if we do it wrongly .
If the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get help it would be catastrophic . ''
Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour which is designed to make the victim isolated and reliant on the perpetrator .
According to Women 's Aid some common examples include : • Isolating you from friends and family • Depriving you of basic needs , such as food • Taking control over aspects of your everyday life , such as where you can go , who you can see , what you can wear and when you can sleep Different parts of the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coercive control .
It first became a crime in England and Wales in 2015 .
There were 17,616 recorded offences of coercive control in the year to March 2019 , according to figures from the Office for National Statistics , nearly double the number there were the year before .
Iain says Yasmeen , normally a strong character , was specifically chosen for the story to show it can happen to anyone .
`` It does n't matter how strong you are , this coercive control is very subtle , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locking Yasmeen in a box , killing and serving her pet chicken as food and telling people she is an alcoholic .
`` It is death by a thousand cuts .
It gradually corrodes somebody 's personality , their social life , isolates them from their friends in such a bespoke fashion , '' Iain says .
`` Often they do n't realise it is happening . ''
Shelley King says while filming had been intense , it was important to her that the story was helping people .
`` I have 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a major moment in the storyline , and particularly since last Friday .
`` It is making a difference and that means a hell of a lot . ''
However , the issue has caused division in the audience .
Some viewers have said on social media they wo n't watch the show until the storyline has finished .
Iain says he understands it is a `` tough watch '' and could be triggering to people who have experienced this kind of abuse .
`` We have to believe that the good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a chance to escape outweighs that , '' he said .
Coercive control survivor Natalie Curtis says the storyline has been vital in helping other women understand .
`` The episodes in which you see Geoff control , bully , manipulate , isolate , threaten , gaslight , belittle and confuse Yasmeen are devastating , '' she says .
`` This crime is happening right now in the homes of many women and children , a place where you are meant to feel safe , but for so many this is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand how hard it is to watch as I 'm a survivor of coercive control but educating other women and showing how perpetrators of domestic abuse control their partners is paramount .
`` Your friend , family member or work colleague could be experiencing domestic abuse .
The behaviour could at the start seem quite subtle and is there to confuse the victim and gain power and control . ''
As well as helping victims , Ian Bartholomew - who plays Geoff - says the storyline also shows how everyone has a responsibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` You think , 'He does n't treat her very well , ' but you do n't say anything .
`` Now I would do that before .
I think I 'd have thought it is none of my business but of course it is my business , it is all of our business to look after each other . ''
Laura Dix from the Women 's Aid Federation of England says if a friend or family member is being coercively controlled , you might see their behaviour change .
`` They may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seem nervous or afraid of their partner , '' she says .
While things are likely to get harder for Yasmeen before they get better , and likely to include a court appearance , Shelley says there has to be a positive end to her tale , to show those in her position there is the possibility of something good in the future .
The story reflects real-life cases such as that of Sally Challen who killed her husband after years of abuse .
She was jailed for murder in 2011 but had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ admitted manslaughter by diminished responsibility .
If you or someone you know has been affected by the issues raised in this story , you can find help and advice here .

"The episodes in which you see Geoff control, bully, manipulate, isolate, threaten, gaslight, belittle and confuse Yasmeen are devastating," she says. "This crime is happening right now in the homes of many women and children, a place where you are meant to feel safe, but for so many this is not a place of safety.


bbcuk--2020-05-04--Your pictures of lockdown at home

Your pictures of lockdown at home

We asked our readers to send in their pictures of life at home during lockdown due to the spread of the coronavirus .
Here are some of the pictures sent to us from across the UK .
Gillian Deveney : `` Flowers I ca n't kill in my garden and [ which ] will have to do .
Normally , I would be visiting the local garden centre to add colour and bedding plants .
I showed my friend the picture and he called my stone flowers 'pebbleanthiums ' . ''
Daniel Yiu : `` A junior doctor redeployed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask at home .
The masks have to be moulded to the face in order to create an airtight seal . ''
Douglas Fry : `` School science projects need to continue during lockdown , so Clementine is upgrading the school robot entry into this year 's competition at Southampton University , which would have taken place today .
Working solidly on it over an extended period stuck at home , the robot , she hopes will perhaps become sentient . ''
Yvonne Ayoub : `` I 'm an artist , six weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in central London .
I decided , on a whim , to paint a mural 'en grisaille ' , in my hallway and up the stairs .
It 's turning into an all-consuming , mammoth task but passes the time perfectly . ''
Anthea Benyon : `` Lockdown has meant spending more time with my daughter and I have been very glad of our little garden , at home , in Devizes . ''
Verna Evans : `` Day 34 of self-isolation .
I ca n't go out to take photographs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I took before being confined to the house . ''
Penny Phillips : `` Why are you at home ?
Monty is bemused that his home is full of people every day and has taken to having a cheeky lie-in himself . ''
Angela Reid : `` We 're supporting the NHS and key workers .
Many windows in our street have rainbows and teddies .
We did n't have a teddy , so we had the idea for our dog Talla to kindly donate her Miss Piggy as a stand-in .
Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home , ' to remind people to stay at home . ''
Hannah Semore : `` My children delight in being at home and even relish re-enacting everyday life in an even more shrunken world .
This miniature world of controllable predictability was made by my grandmother , who lived through a very different era of extraordinary home life . ''
Charlotte Gurney-Read : `` Making the most of having lots of free time at home , by learning the ancient art of levitation . ''
Kelly Jennings : `` Awaiting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our time at home during the Covid-19 pandemic .
As spring emerges and flowers come to life , we are spending as much time as we can in the garden . ''
Dave Cook : `` This was taken at home in our backyard tree and shows the second white squirrel born to that family in 12 years .
He 's pretty friendly , too . ''
Chandralekha Sumar : `` Being at home with kids is tough .
Always coming up with ideas to keep each other busy , be it lawn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or solving a 1,000-piece puzzle where the pieces look the same . ''
Tim Jones : `` As we are all staying at home this weekend , I 'm planning an expedition to the bottom of the garden . ''
Richard Hughes : `` I have got into photography over the last year and been taking pictures daily on my new Instagram page .
This day me and my wife had fun creating these pictures . ''
The next theme is `` working at home '' .
Now many of us are working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see your pictures of your workspace , be it a desk or something less permanent , and the deadline for entries is 12 May 2020 .
Send pictures to yourpics @ bbc.co.uk or follow the link to `` Upload your pictures here '' below .
Further details and terms can be found by following the link to `` We set the theme , you take the pictures , '' at the bottom of the page .

Image caption,
Angela Reid: "We're supporting the NHS and key workers. Many windows in our street have rainbows and teddies. We didn't have a teddy, so we had the idea for our dog Talla to kindly donate her Miss Piggy as a stand-in. Our message is: 'This little piggy stayed at home,' to remind people to stay at home."


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Not possible to 'reliably' compare death tolls at this stage - Raab

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has insisted it is not yet possible to `` reliably '' compare coronavirus death tolls country-by-country @ @ @ @ @ UK reported its death total as 29,427 , which is now higher than Italy 's @ @ @ @ @ 's David Shukman at Tuesday 's Downing Street briefing , Mr Raab said : `` @ @ @ @ @ you can make the international comparisons you 're suggesting at this stage . ''

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has insisted it is not yet possible to "reliably" compare coronavirus death tolls country-by-country.
It comes as the UK reported its death total as 29,427, which is now higher than Italy's 29,315.
Answering the BBC's David Shukman at Tuesday's Downing Street briefing, Mr Raab said: "I don’t think you can make the international comparisons you're suggesting at this stage."
Read more: UK coronavirus death toll higher than Italy's


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Inclusive choir finds voice in lockdown

For people with special needs and their families , the coronavirus lockdown has been particularly challenging .
But in Oxford @ @ @ @ @ is using music as a means of overcoming that isolation .
In lockdown , they @ @ @ @ @ reunite and support one another .

For people with special needs and their families, the coronavirus lockdown has been particularly challenging.
But in Oxford, the Soundabout Inclusive Choir is using music as a means of overcoming that isolation.
In lockdown, they’ve harnessed technology to reunite and support one another.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Doctor MP says 'government's lack of testing has cost lives’

An investigation by BBC News Arabic has found how one Iranian airline contributed to the spread of the virus around @ @ @ @

Labour MP Dr Rosena Allin-Khan has called out the government on its testing strategy, saying it has "cost lives".
The shadow health minister has been doing A&E shifts at a London hospital during the coronavirus outbreak.
She questioned the health secretary in the House of Commons on Tuesday.
Matt Hancock responded to say there had been "a rapid acceleration in testing over the last few months".


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Aer Lingus flight had 'no social distancing' says passenger

Why the R number is important to fight coronavirus Experts keep discussing the value of R , but what is @ @ @ @ @ matter ?

A passenger on an Aer Lingus flight from Belfast to Heathrow has shared photos showing most passengers sitting close together.
"There was no social distancing, there was no sanitiser," according to Sean Mallon.
Aer Lingus has said it is reviewing procedures on its Belfast to London flights, following the claim it was not observing social distancing measures.
Read more: Aer Lingus review after packed flight complaint


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Matt Hancock asks Julian Lewis about lockdown haircut

An MP was told his haircut looked “ extraordinary '' while Parliamentary colleagues were described as looking “ bushy ” @ @ @ @ @ asking Health Secretary Matt Hancock about the supply of medical PPE equipment .
After replying @ @ @ @ @ hair comments were met with laughter by other MPs , but Mr Lewis did not @ @ @ @ @ barber .

An MP was told his haircut looked “extraordinary" while Parliamentary colleagues were described as looking “bushy”.
Conservative Julian Lewis was asking Health Secretary Matt Hancock about the supply of medical PPE equipment.
After replying, Mr Hancock’s hair comments were met with laughter by other MPs, but Mr Lewis did not reveal the name of the barber.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: How one mother and daughter tackle home schooling

Cynthia Davis and her six-year-old daughter Elsa spoke to the BBC 's Joanna Gosling about the realities of home schooling @ @ @ @ @ see relatives .

Cynthia Davis and her six-year-old daughter Elsa spoke to the BBC's Joanna Gosling about the realities of home schooling and not being able to see relatives.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--The Papers: UK death toll milestone, and 'Prof Lockdown' quits

The announcement by Virgin Atlantic that it will cut nearly a third of its workforce and close its operation at @ @ @ @ @ of the Financial Times .
The paper says it comes after a `` turbulent week @ @ @ @ @ , with job cuts planned at other airlines too .
Meanwhile , its main photo @ @ @ @ @ '' at South Korea 's first baseball game of the season .

The paper considers why Britain compares so badly with other countries. Possible explanations, it suggests, include the length of time taken to impose the lockdown, the comparatively high population density in parts of the UK, and the failure to quickly "ramp up" testing, in the way that Germany and Italy did.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Captain Tom Moore receives gold Blue Peter badge

Captain Tom Moore has been awarded a prestigious gold Blue Peter badge for raising almost £33m for the NHS .
The badge is the show 's highest accolade and famous recipients include the Queen , Sir David Attenborough and Mary Berry .
The war veteran completed 100 laps of his Bedfordshire garden by his 100th birthday last week , receiving donations from more than 1.5m supporters .
Presenter Lindsey Russell described him as `` a beacon of light '' .
Capt Tom 's birthday on Thursday was marked with an RAF flypast and a message from the Queen .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment , in which he had served during World War Two .
Only a handful of gold badges are presented by Blue Peter each year to outstanding individuals who are considered to be role models , inspiring the nation 's children .
Ms Russell was helped by Capt Tom 's grandchildren , Benji and Georgia , to surprise him with the badge and to comply with social distancing measures .
She told him : `` We at Blue Peter think it is brilliant what you have achieved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past couple of weeks , the money and attention you have raised .
`` As Benji so rightly put it , during this time of darkness you are such a beacon of light .
`` On Blue Peter our highest accolade is the gold Blue Peter badge and it is something that the Queen , amongst a few others , have got , so on behalf of Blue Peter and our wonderful audience we would like to award you with our highest accolade . ''
Capt Tom replied : `` That 's absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am very proud to receive it because I have always been a great follower of Blue Peter - I remember the elephant , which is quite a few years ago now ! ''
The special episode of Blue Peter will air on 7 May on CBBC at 17:30 GMT and will be on BBC iPlayer .

"On Blue Peter our highest accolade is the gold Blue Peter badge and it is something that the Queen, amongst a few others, have got, so on behalf of Blue Peter and our wonderful audience we would like to award you with our highest accolade."


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Nicola Sturgeon sets out options for easing lockdown

The Scottish government has set out options for lifting the coronavirus lockdown - but has warned that `` extreme caution '' will have to be exercised .
Strict social distancing restrictions are due to be reviewed on Thursday , but significant changes are unlikely .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon unveiled a paper on the options which are being considered , including relaxing rules on daily exercise and meeting people .
It also suggests ways that schools could eventually start to reopen .
This could include some year groups returning ahead of others , pupils attending school part-time , and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The new paper warns that re-opening primary schools and nurseries fully at this point would likely see a new spike in infections which would overwhelm the NHS within two months .
It also stresses that the wider coronavirus restrictions will not change `` until it is safe to do so '' .
The paper warns that there are still approximately 26,000 infectious people in Scotland , with the number `` much too high at present to consider the virus under control '' .
Any changes to lockdown will depend on how the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers have warned that `` no significant change '' is likely this week .
The paper says there is `` some evidence '' that the infection rate in Scotland is `` slightly above that elsewhere in the UK '' , and says `` we must continue to proceed with extreme caution '' .
It sets out a series of options for gradually lifting restrictions , moving towards a `` new normal '' which could remain in place for the foreseeable future .
It says people could be allowed to leave their homes more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area and only mixing with their own household group .
Officials are also considering whether people could be allowed to meet with `` a small number of others '' from outside their household , initially in `` a group or 'bubble ' that acts as a single , self-contained unit .
These could be outdoor meetings at first .
Options for resuming NHS services which were suspended at the outbreak of the pandemic are also being examined , so some procedures and screening services can begin again where safe .
Some workplaces could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paper warns that `` restrictions are likely to remain in place for some business activity for some time to come , especially where safe working is harder to achieve '' .
Ms Sturgeon said `` particular consideration '' was being given to sectors such as construction , retail and manufacturing - but said `` where home working is possible we are likely to insist on that for the foreseeable future '' .
Ministers are considering `` a phased approach to returning pupils to school , when it is safe to do so '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` priority groups '' - including vulnerable pupils , those transitioning from primary to secondary school , and those beginning qualification courses in S3-S6 - resume classes ahead of other pupils .
It would also require `` a new approach to schooling '' , likely with `` a blend of in-school and at-home learning '' .
This would see pupils attend school part-time in blocks of a few days , with schools being deep-cleaned between groups , and `` consistent , high-quality online materials '' provided for those learning at home .
Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might not be possible at all ahead of the summer holidays '' , and said `` we will not compromise the safety of your children '' .
The paper warns that re-opening primary schools and nurseries too early could cause `` a resurgence in the virus '' - saying that in the `` most likely scenario '' , a full re-opening would risk it spreading so fast that `` hospital capacity in Scotland would be overwhelmed in less than two months '' .
All of the options in the paper are currently under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` we are not recommending these options at the moment but offer them as examples of what may come next and the kind of preparations that are under way '' .
She said : `` We will only make changes to lockdown rules when we believe it is safe to do so , whether that is in reopening schools or businesses or increasing social interaction .
`` The most important task for all of us in the here and now is to get the virus under more control than it is right now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we really are at a critical stage .
`` That means asking you again to stick rigorously to the current rules , to think about your own compliance , and tightening that if anything , not easing up on it .
If you have been going out a bit more than you should , please rectify that .
`` Please stay home except for essential purposes . ''
The Scottish government is also appealing for people to contribute to the debate about the best path forward , and has set up a special @ @ @ @ @ @ @

"That means asking you again to stick rigorously to the current rules, to think about your own compliance, and tightening that if anything, not easing up on it. If you have been going out a bit more than you should, please rectify that.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Robin Swann says lockdown debate getting ahead of itself

The debate about easing Northern Ireland 's pandemic lockdown restrictions is `` getting ahead of itself '' , the health minister has said .
A further 17 Covid-19 related deaths in NI were reported by Robin Swann 's department , bringing its total to 404 .
The executive is holding talks about whether to relax any measures to curb the spread of the virus .
`` Call it my May Day alert , '' said Mr Swann , as he urged people to stay at home this bank holiday weekend .
Northern Ireland 's Executive must review whether to amend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some ministers have already said any changes need to be gradual .
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill wants the Executive to publish its plans for emerging from restrictions on Thursday .
Stormont should not have to wait until a British government 's plan emerged , but rather make public its own blueprint , the Sinn Féin deputy leader told RTÉ News .
Earlier , commenting on considerations on how to ease the lockdown , Mr Swann said : `` Please do n't take this as meaning we 're near the finishing line - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` No matter how good the weather is , how strong the temptation might be , do n't give in , do n't give up . ''
Northern Ireland 's Chief Medical Officer , Dr Michael McBride , said he was reluctant to outline a schedule for potential phases of easing restrictions .
`` We have to be careful about our public messaging here , people have persevered but people are tired , '' he said .
`` We have a number of weeks to go yet before I believe we could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
In other developments on Tuesday : • It has emerged staff at some private care homes are only offered statutory sick pay if they test positive for Covid-19 ; • Four supermarkets in NI have agreed with the Department for Communities to prioritise delivery slots for people who are shielding during the pandemic ; • There is no clear guidance on social distancing measures on an aircraft , the chief executive of Belfast City Airport has said , after claims measures were not observed on an Aer Lingus flight • New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just 24 in April as a result of coronavirus The warning came as it emerged the UK 's death toll ( 29,427 ) had now surpassed Italy 's ( 29,315 ) , while in the Republic of Ireland the death toll stands at 1,339 , with a further 23 deaths announced on Tuesday .
The NI health department 's figures mostly relate to hospital deaths ; a weekly report published by the government statistics agency , Nisra , records all deaths where Covid-19 is mentioned on a death certificate and shows NI 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 24 April , the Nisra statistics had recorded 393 Covid-19 related deaths in Northern Ireland , with about 40 % of them having taken place in care homes .
Mr Swann said the front-line fight against the virus was now in Northern Ireland 's care homes , as the number of hospital admissions due to Covid-19 was falling .
It has emerged that 14 people from the same County Antrim care home - Glenabbey Manor in Glengormley - have died from covid-related symptoms .
• Since 16 March , there have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with 72 of those confirmed as Covid-19 clusters and the remainder mainly flu-related • Additional funding of £6.5m has been provided to help the care home sector • A pilot contact tracing programme went live last week and there are plans to scale it up further by mid-May Dr McBride said the public response to social distancing guidelines had so far been `` outstanding '' .
`` Every single one of you has saved lives but it is important we stay the distance , '' he added .
What could NI lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detailed discussions on Monday about whether to lift some lockdown measures .
The Republic of Ireland published its own timetable for recovery , with the first of those plans having started on Tuesday .
The first and deputy first ministers have already suggested they do not believe any approach agreed by the Stormont executive should include projected dates , in case it leads to a false sense that pre-Covid-19 life is returning .
Mr Swann said he agreed that a plan needed to be outlined by ministers this week to set out what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first wave of the pandemic .
`` What things will look like , what changes ca n't be made - we need to have those conversations , '' he added .
`` There will be a new normal in Northern Ireland for a long time while we try to get Covid-19 under control . ''
On Sunday , the Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to set out his own plans about potentially relaxing some aspects of the lockdown .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exercise • WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW How to understand the death toll • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?

Earlier, commenting on considerations on how to ease the lockdown, Mr Swann said: "Please don't take this as meaning we're near the finishing line - nothing could be further from the truth.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Don't ban over-70s from lockdown easing, says ex-MP

Ex-Labour MP Ann Clwyd has urged Welsh ministers not to impose a `` blanket ban '' on the over-70s being involved in the easing of the coronavirus lockdown .
Ms Clwyd was MP for Cynon Valley for 35 years , before retiring in December .
She told BBC Wales self-isolation was `` difficult and lonely '' and any easing of restrictions on movement should not exclude the over-70 age group .
People over 70 have been advised to be `` particularly stringent '' in following social-distancing measures .
They are classed as a `` vulnerable group '' regardless of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales told to shield from virus • Coronavirus could 'come back with a vengeance Ms Clwyd said that at the beginning of the lockdown she and friends in the same age group felt resignation and a `` determination to try and beat the virus , but I think now people are getting depressed because they ca n't see an end to it '' .
`` They do n't know when they might be able to do normal things again , '' she said She called on the Welsh Government to provide more nuanced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ca n't have a blanket ban on over-70s , '' she said .
`` It depends , where they 've got other health conditions… I had pneumonia last year , I was in intensive care and I know I 'm one of the at risk people .
`` But there are other people who have n't had respiratory problems or heart problems and are perfectly healthy .
`` I know it 's difficult to distinguish and I think you 've got to leave a lot to people 's common sense .
`` People @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a ban on them doing this or that I think would be a mistake . ''
The Older People 's Commissioner for Wales , Helena Herklots , said many people who contact her feel the same way .
`` When I 'm talking to older people , there 's a very strong feeling that if you 're over 70 you 've been lumped together in one group , '' she said .
`` There 's a huge diversity amongst the over-70s .
Many contribute a huge amount to our economy , from volunteering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ older people should be involved in the easing of restrictions along with everyone else .
`` I think there should n't be any justification for a blanket age ban .
We know that age is a risk factor , but so are other issues , there 's a link with obesity for example , so the communication needs to be really clear about what the risk factors are .
`` Just because there 's a different risk factor does n't mean that you should necessarily be staying in lockdown for longer .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place to support people .
`` And it 's really important as we go into what hopefully is a recovery phase that that is n't based on age discrimination , on blanket age bans . ''
Ms Herklots said she was concerned about the impact self-isolation was having on older people 's mental health .
As ministers look at the recovery phase , she urged them to take into account a range of factors including older people 's mental well-being .
`` Bring all that different evidence together and weigh up , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of lockdown but the risks of staying in lockdown and staying in isolation , '' she said .
A Welsh Government spokeswoman said : `` Over-70s are not included in the highly vulnerable group who are being shielded and asked to follow much more stringent isolation rules .
`` The advice on social distancing is the same for everyone .
Older people are at increased risk of severe illness from coronavirus and we advise them to be particularly careful in following the rules . ''
Speaking on Monday the First Minister , Mark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a blunt instrument '' , but he said the virus does target older people and those with underlying health conditions and it was right to advise them to take additional steps to stay safe .
`` The reason we have given that advice to people in that age bracket , is not because we wanted arbitrarily to make their lives more difficult but because we know that that population is at greater risk , and it makes sense for people in that age bracket therefore to take greater precautions . ''

"The reason we have given that advice to people in that age bracket, is not because we wanted arbitrarily to make their lives more difficult but because we know that that population is at greater risk, and it makes sense for people in that age bracket therefore to take greater precautions."


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus repatriation policy 'has echoes of Windrush'

People who have lived in the UK for decades fear they may not be flown home by the government after being stranded abroad because of coronavirus .
The Foreign Office ( FCO ) has prioritised British nationals on its repatriation flights .
It said it would only rescue people with indefinite leave to remain in the UK if there is space .
Labour MPs said the treatment of immigrants who had made their lives in the UK `` echoes '' the Windrush scandal .
Foreign Office Minister Nigel Adams MP told the House of Commons the decision to prioritise British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But families with elderly parents abroad have told the BBC they feared this meant their relatives - who in many cases had themselves paid taxes for years - may be `` left behind '' .
Vasudev Pushpa , 72 , from Long Eaton in Derbyshire , is one of the thousands waiting to find out if they will be coming home .
She is in India , along with many of the other British residents who remain stuck abroad .
The UK government said it had arranged charter flights from India until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that - though it would keep the situation under review .
Anita Bilkhu , Mrs Pushpa 's daughter , said she did not know whether her mother would get a place on that last round of flights as she had indefinite leave to remain in the UK , rather than being a British citizen .
`` It makes me angry , '' Mrs Bilkhu , who is a British national , said .
`` My mum has lived here so many years and contributed a lot , but because of that piece of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the British government . ''
People with this status are not British nationals , but they can live and work in the UK as long as they wish , have the same access to healthcare and education and their children would usually automatically be British citizens .
Some , like Ms Pushpa , have lived in this situation for decades and many have not felt the need to become full British citizens , despite being entitled to apply .
But now Mrs Bilkhu , 44 , is worried that if her mother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to rely on the Indian health service instead of the NHS , which she has paid into and for which one of Ms Pushpa 's daughters works .
Mrs Bilkhu said : `` We 're not saying we want her back before anyone else , we just want to make sure she 's not left behind . ''
The issue was raised in the House of Commons by Labour MP Matt Western , who said it had `` echoes of Windrush '' , and the Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy .
Nigel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` These flights are paid for by the British taxpayer , so our initial priority is with British nationals .
`` Of course those who have indefinite leave to remain should not be discriminated against in any way . ''
When the BBC asked the FCO to explain how this policy did not discriminate , it declined to comment .
Tan Dhesi , Labour MP for Slough , told the BBC : `` This will end up being the next Windrush .
`` These are people who have contributed to our country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'My grandchildren and children are British but now we 're being abandoned by our own government ' .
People are really , really angry . ''
A Foreign Office spokesman said people with `` indefinite leave to remain [ in the UK ] are also eligible for these flights , with priority given to the most vulnerable '' .
But he said there was still `` huge demand '' for repatriation and no guarantee who would get a place .
He confirmed available seats would first be given to British nationals and close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesman added : `` Since the outbreak began , [ we have ] worked consistently with governments , air carriers and travel companies to minimise disruption and help well over one million British travellers return home safely - supported with £75m for special charter flights to priority countries , focused on helping the most vulnerable people . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • STRESS : How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC East Midlands on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram .
Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews @ bbc.co.uk .

She is in India, along with many of the other British residents who remain stuck abroad. The UK government said it had arranged charter flights from India until 11 May but planned no more after that - though it would keep the situation under review.


bbcuk--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson promises 200,000 tests by end of May

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has pledged to reach 200,000 tests for coronavirus a day by the end of May .
@ @ @ @ @ hit its target of 100,000 tests on Friday , but that number has since fallen @ @ @ @ @ Minister 's Questions , Mr Johnson said `` capacity currently exceeds demand '' and the @ @ @ @ @ address that .
He said his `` ambition '' was to hit 200,000 tests `` @ @ @ @ @ month - and then go even higher '' .
He also confirmed that he would @ @ @ @ @ begin lifting the coronavirus lockdown on Sunday , adding that he hoped to `` get @ @ @ @ @ measures on Monday '' .

Mr Johnson replied: "Yes, he's right that capacity currently exceeds demand, we're working on that, we're running at about 100,000 a day, but the ambition clearly is to get up to 200,000 a day by the end of this month and then to go even higher."


bbcuk--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: Heathrow trialling temperature tests, says boss

The boss of Heathrow Airport has told MPs that it is trialling large-scale temperature checks as the aviation industry struggles @ @ @ @ @ they are being carried out at the departure gate on people going to places where @ @ @ @ @ John Holland-Kaye urged the government to produce a plan on what common standards airports should @ @ @ @ @ avoid companies taking decisions about job reductions in a vacuum , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ Select Committee : `` If we are told that the only solution until we can @ @ @ @ @ to 18 months ' time is to socially distance in an airport , then tens @ @ @ @ @ be cut .
`` We can not afford to wait that long to get flying @ @ @ @ @ .

Mr Holland-Kaye told the Transport Select Committee: "If we are told that the only solution until we can get a vaccine in 12 to 18 months' time is to socially distance in an airport, then tens of thousands of jobs will be cut.


bbcuk--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: 'More normal' shopping habits are back, says Ocado

Ocado says `` more normal '' shopping habits are back after a huge jump in demand amid the coronavirus lockdown .
Its customers are now purchasing fewer items than at the peak of demand , with the balance between fresh and long-life food returning to normal .
The online grocer has made changes to increase the delivery slots available , including suspending the delivery of mineral water .
Its revenues in April were up more than 40 % from a year earlier .
`` At the beginning of the outbreak demand increased significantly , almost overnight , '' the retailer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ items on sale initially in order to stop customers from panic buying .
Ocado said these limits have since been rolled back as the number of items shoppers are putting in their baskets `` appears to have passed its peak but remains high '' .
Tim Steiner , chief executive of the Ocado group , said : `` We are facing quite a different challenge to many , as we scale up Ocado.com to play its part in feeding the nation . ''
The supermarket has drawn criticism on social media as customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virtual queue to place a food order .
It was previously forced to suspend its entire service briefly , and temporarily took down its app due to the spike in orders .
Currently , new customers are not able to place orders with the retailer due to a lack of available delivery slots .
On its website , the firm says it is focusing on delivering food to vulnerable , as well as its longest-standing customers .
Mr Steiner added : `` Ocado remains in a strong position and we should be grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , expansion and increased demand . ''
However , the company suspended its revenue forecasts due to the uncertainty over how shoppers will react in the long run .
`` Although we expect the long-term shift towards online grocery to accelerate post-crisis , there remain many uncertainties about the length of the crisis , customer reaction immediately post and its long-term impact on customers ' disposable incomes . ''
'Well placed ' for lockdown John Moore , senior investment manager at Brewin Dolphin , said that Ocado has had a very different experience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` While the wider market has dropped , its shares have surged more than 50 % in the year to date in anticipation of the business being well placed in the lockdown , '' he said .
`` Ocado was becoming the UK 's stock market 's most prominent and , arguably , important technology company before the crisis - that status has only accelerated over the past couple of months . ''
Sophie Lund-Yates , equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown also suggested that the business is in a good position as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ S announced last year that it would go into partnership with Ocado from September this year , replacing the online grocer 's existing deal with Waitrose .
Under the deal , M & S is buying a 50 % share of Ocado 's retail business for £750m .
Ocado will also continue to supply its own-label products and big-name branded goods .
`` For now , the indicators suggest more deals could be on the cards in the near future , '' Ms Lund-Yates said .
Ahead of the firm 's annual general @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would vote against Ocado 's pay policies , despite its recent performance .
Group chief executive Tim Steiner received £58.7m in total pay in 2019 .
He got the windfall after an incentive scheme tied to the firm 's share price paid out .
Royal London , which has a small stake in Ocado , said it would oppose Mr Steiner 's payout , calling it `` excessive '' .
Several other firms posted trading updates on Wednesday which detailed how they had been affected by the coronavirus pandemic .
• ITV reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in April as firms cut back on marketing • Cycle and car repair firm Halfords said sales were 23 % below last year in the four weeks to 1 May , although that was better performance than expected • Insurer Direct Line said that motor insurance claims fell by 70 % last month , as people stayed indoors under lockdown .
However , it also said it expected to take a £44m hit from travel insurance claims .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
Since the emergence of coronavirus and the lockdown , how have your shopping habits changed ?
Are they 'back to normal ' ?
What are you seeing shortages of ?
What have you had to stop buying because you ca n't find it anywhere or perhaps because the price has gone up ?
What have you tried for the first time ?
Share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
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"While the wider market has dropped, its shares have surged more than 50% in the year to date in anticipation of the business being well placed in the lockdown," he said.


bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: Firms ready to restart within three weeks, says business group

Most firms believe they could be ready to restart business with just three weeks ' notice .
That 's according to the latest British Chambers of Commerce Coronavirus weekly survey of firms .
BBC News talked to companies in five different sectors to find out how prepared they are to return work and their new ways of doing business .
Some are rotating staff .
Others have introduced remote services or plan to shut the office altogether .
`` Businesses ' ability to restart quickly varies by company size and by sector , '' said BCC director general Dr Adam @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that offer services to other business are the most ready , with two-thirds saying they would need less than one week or no notice at all to restart operations .
Fewer than half of firms serving consumers said they were confident of being ready that quickly .
`` It will be crucial for the government to maintain and evolve support for businesses , to give as many firms as possible the chance to navigate a phased return to work , '' said Dr Marshall .
Here , we talk to five different types @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurant , factory and shop - to see what changes they 're making .
The marketing agency that 's shutting its office '' We 're not going to return to office working .
We will close it as soon as the lease runs out , '' says Shai Aharony , chief executive of Reboot Digital Marketing .
`` It will save us around 10 % of our turnover and means we 'll cut down on fuel , pollution and all the other surrounding costs associated with having an office . ''
The Hertfordshire-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has found that working from home suits its workers .
`` It 's a major change for us .
But I do n't think that things are going to go back to normal .
A lot of companies are going to have to evolve rapidly if they want to survive . ''
However , they 'll still need to get together regularly , says Mr Aharony .
`` We have a brainstorming session every two weeks that is key to our business .
`` In future , we 'll do it at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do all the other tasks that are more efficiently done face-to-face and then go out as a company . ''
The building firm that 's moved to all-digital '' All our site workers will have to do their health and safety inductions at home , '' says Andrew Brooks , boss of housebuilder Bewley Homes .
Inductions are normally done on site in groups , which is not possible right now .
`` Importantly , it makes sure they know everything to follow the new regulations .
The old way of inducting 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone . ''
Signing into a site has also had to go digital .
`` Sharing a pen , punching into a tablet or fingerprint scans are no longer options , '' Mr Brooks says .
The builder is adopting digital sign-ins .
Nearly every aspect of construction site life has changed , if not forever , then certainly for the next few months , he says .
`` There 's a huge logistical challenge to get 400 workers back on site at once and it needs methodical planning , '' he says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subcontractors to respect the two-metre rule plot-by-plot and to navigate around the entire site , there are also all the new on-site safety measures to put in place . ''
The restaurant that 's become a takeaway '' I 've had to develop new dishes that travel , '' says Dev Biswal , owner of the Ambrette , three fine dining Indian restaurants in Canterbury and Margate .
`` I 've never offered takeaways , because my style of cooking and presentation could never survive transportation . ''
But like many other businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ survive .
He 's now planning to open a `` dark kitchen '' , which will offer multi-cuisine , takeaway gourmet dishes , such as slow goat stroganoff or coconut and saffron cheesecake , through Deliveroo .
He 's also moving his cookery classes online and set up an ingredient delivery service .
He says the crisis has forced him to accelerate plans to introduce deliveries .
`` I 've read industry reports which all predict significant growth for the delivery market , so it 's something I 'd been giving serious thought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Biswal .
`` The crash in footfall surrounding the media panic around Covid-19 means I 've had to bring those plans forward . ''
`` We 've moved our on-site laboratories to operate in completely separated shifts , '' says Lee Sheppard , director at Wiltshire-based caterer Apetito .
The company - which supplies food to the health and social care sector - has introduced a number of social distancing measures to ensure the safety of workers at its Trowbridge factory .
These include glass partitions in its production kitchen and individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its team canteen , while the numbers of those that can enter have been reduced .
Its offices remain closed , with team members now working from home , but the company is considering a rotation scheme which would limit numbers of people in the office at one time .
`` We already had a flexible policy with working from home , but we 're exploring the idea of staff working one week in the office and one week from home . ''
Meanwhile , its delivery teams are following a default no-contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exploring remote alternatives to our traditional in-person appointments , '' says Giles Edmonds , clinical services director at Specsavers .
`` Our stores are currently only able to offer urgent and essential care to a limited number of customers . ''
The new way of doing business is to allow customers to get advice and care from optometrists and audiologists via video and telephone link .
`` It removes a number of barriers , especially with health services already under immense pressure , '' says Mr Edmonds .
They also have an Ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in branches , `` frontline '' teams provide urgent and essential eye care to other key workers and people who could come to harm .
`` However , we have modified our processes to minimise the time that optometrists or audiologists and their patients are in proximity to each other . ''
That 's on top of a range of social distancing measures and the provision of hand sanitisers , which all retailers have adopted .

The survey suggests that businesses that offer services to other business are the most ready, with two-thirds saying they would need less than one week or no notice at all to restart operations.


bbcuk--2020-05-06--Rory Stewart quits Mayor of London race

Rory Stewart quits Mayor of London race

London mayoral candidate Rory Stewart has dropped out of the race after the coronavirus crisis forced a year 's delay .
The former Tory cabinet minister said it was impossible to ask unpaid campaign volunteers to work for another 12 months .
The independent candidate said it had been an `` agonising decision '' for him to make .
The announcement comes on the eve of what would have been polling day .
In a statement Mr Stewart said : `` I firmly believe London is the greatest city on earth - and its courageous response to Covid-19 proves that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been the honour of my life to serve the city as mayor , but while the considerable challenges of running as an independent were manageable for a normal race they are forbidding for an extended and delayed election . ''
In March the government announced that the mayoral election would be delayed until May next year as the country prepared to go into lockdown .
After serving as International Development Secretary under Theresa May , Mr Stewart campaigned to succeed her in the Conservative leadership election last summer .
But after Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was one of 21 Conservative MPs expelled from the party for rebelling over Brexit .
The former MP for Penrith and The Border left parliament in October 2019 to run as an independent candidate .
Mr Stewart , 47 , gained national attention through a series of campaigns that offered face-to-face debates with Londoners .
A cornerstone of his election effort were his daily walks across London were he would film interviews and discussions with Londoners he met .
His Come Kip With Me initiative , asking to stay a night in Londoner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attracted national publicity .
In an interview with the Evening Standard Mr Stewart said he planned to write a book about politics and hoped to stay in public life .
He said would not re-join the Tory party and declined to endorse any other candidate for mayor .
Reacting to the news Shaun Bailey , the Conservative candidate , said : `` Like me , he believes London needs new leadership .
`` Rory brought some interesting ideas to the table and his unique campaigning style was a real breath of fresh air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best for the next chapter . ''

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bbcuk--2020-05-05--Coronavirus: UK warned to avoid climate change crisis

The UK must avoid lurching from the coronavirus crisis into a deeper climate crisis , the government ’ s advisers have warned .
They recommend that ministers ensure funds earmarked for a post-Covid-19 economic recovery go to firms that will reduce carbon emissions .
They say the public should work from home if possible ; and to walk or cycle .
And investment should prioritise broadband over road-building , the Committee on Climate Change ( CCC ) says .
People should also be encouraged to save emissions by continuing to consult GPs online .
The government will reply later , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already spoken in favour of a green recovery to the recession .
In a letter to the Prime Minister , the committee says jobless people should be re-trained for work in geographically-spread labour-intensive “ green ” industries such as home insulation ; tree-planting ; and peatland restoration .
It makes a veiled reference to the current discussions over a potential government bailout to save jobs in aviation , which is struggling in the crisis .
The letter says : “ Many sectors of the UK economy do not currently bear the full costs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be raised by setting or raising carbon prices for these sectors.
” Green groups say any bailout should include a condition that the industry shrinks until it finds a technological solution to its carbon emissions .
The letter also tackles broader social themes of fairness and risk .
It says the Covid-19 crisis has highlighted inequalities , with poorer people more in danger .
The committee notes : “ The response to the pandemic has disproportionately affected the same lower-income groups and younger people - who face the largest long-term impacts of climate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on climate change must be shared widely , and the costs must not burden those who are least able to pay or whose livelihoods are most at risk as the economy changes .
“ It is important that the lost or threatened jobs of today should be replaced by those created by the new , resilient economy.
” • How much warmer is your city ?
• What is your diet 's carbon footprint ?
• Where we are in seven charts The committee says the government must produce policies that allow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an orderly way – unlike the chaos of the Covid-19 crisis .
The CCC Chairman , Lord Deben , said : “ The Covid-19 crisis has shown the importance of planning well for the risks the country faces .
“ Recovery means investing in new jobs , cleaner air and improved health .
The actions needed to tackle climate change are central to rebuilding our economy .
“ The government must prioritise actions that reduce climate risks and avoid measures that lock-in higher emissions.
” • A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
The message is not uncontested .
Some politicians have argued that jobs must be protected at all cost in the recovery from the Covid-19 recession .
The UK will chair a vital global climate conference next year .
Lord Deben said the UK should set a global example by planning a climate-friendly recovery from Covid-19 .
The committee has copied the letter to the leaders of Scotland Wales and Northern Ireland .
It will expand on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP Caroline Lucas says the government should harness the lessons from the Covid-19 crisis to create a better society overall .
She says ministers should force firms to show how they will meet CO2 cuts , and give people a right to locally-produced food ; affordable clean energy ; and access to green space .
The environment consultancy EPR says ministers should change the balance of the planning process to ensure that green space is a top priority rather than a nice-to-have .

“The benefits of acting on climate change must be shared widely, and the costs must not burden those who are least able to pay or whose livelihoods are most at risk as the economy changes.


bbcuk--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: Essex street claps dad after six weeks in hospital

Neighbours have clapped and held banners in the street to welcome home a coronavirus survivor after he spent six weeks @ @ @ @ @ Taylor , 31 , was intubated , put in a coma and suffered a stroke @ @ @ @ @ wife Kaitlyn had been told to prepare for the worst , but he has since @ @ @ @ @ recovery at home .
She said : `` He still ca n't speak , it @ @ @ @ @ to understand him .
But he 's done so well at home .
It 's @ @ @ @ @ . ''

Neighbours have clapped and held banners in the street to welcome home a coronavirus survivor after he spent six weeks in hospital.
Father-of-two Omar Taylor, 31, was intubated, put in a coma and suffered a stroke at Colchester Hospital.
His wife Kaitlyn had been told to prepare for the worst, but he has since recovered enough to continue his recovery at home.
She said: "He still can't speak, it's very hard for us to understand him. But he's done so well at home. It's just going to take time."


bbcuk--2020-05-06--Millie Small: My Boy Lollipop singer dies aged 73

Jamaican singer Millie Small has died at the age of 73 after suffering a stroke .
The star was most famous for her hit single My Boy Lollipop , which reached number two in both the US and the UK in 1964 .
It remains one of the biggest-selling ska songs of all time , with more than seven million sales .
Island Records founder Chris Blackwell announced her death and remembered her as `` a sweet person ... really special '' .
It was Blackwell who brought Small to London in 1963 and produced her version of My Boy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vocals .
`` I would say she 's the person who took ska international because it was her first hit record , '' he told the Jamaica Observer .
`` It became a hit pretty much everywhere in the world .
I went with her around the world because each of the territories wanted her to turn up and do TV shows and such , and it was just incredible how she handled it .
`` She was such a sweet person , really a sweet person .
Very funny , great sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Blackwell .
Born Millicent Small in Clarendon , south Jamaica , she was one of seven brothers and five sisters , raised on the sugar plantation where her father was an overseer .
At the age of 12 , she won a talent contest at the Palladium Theatre in Montego Bay ; and by her teens , she was recording for Sir Coxone Dodd 's Studio One label in Kingston .
There , she teamed up with reggae singer Roy Panton , and they became one of the island 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit with We 'll Meet .
Blackwell took an interest in the singer after releasing some of those records in the UK on his fledgling record label , Island , and brought her to London in 1963 .
Small was enrolled at the Italia Conti Stage School for speech training and dancing lessons ; and she toured the UK before cutting My Boy Lollipop with a group of London session musicians ( Small claimed Rod Stewart played the harmonica solo , but he has denied being present at the recording ) .
Released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an international star , and helped popularise ska music around the world .
`` It is the ska equivalent of Elvis ' Heartbreak Hotel or the Sex Pistols ' God Save The Queen - the disc that popularised a sound previously considered to be on the margins of mainstream consciousness , '' wrote music historian Laurence Cane-Honeysett in Record Collector magazine .
However , Small was unable to replicate the success of My Boy Lollipop , scoring only one further hit , a soundalike called Sweet William , later the same year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and appeared frequently on 1960s pop shows like Juke Box Jury and Ready Steady Go .
`` My life seemed very normal to me - even though I was only 17 , I took fame in its stride , '' she told the Express in 2016 .
After leaving Island in 1970 , she recorded for legendary reggae label Trojan Records , where her first single was a cover of Nick Drake 's Mayfair .
However , it was the b-side that attracted greater attention .
Called Enoch Power , it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inflammatory , anti-immigration `` Rivers of Blood '' speech .
Small 's lyrics , which captured the mood of the UK 's Caribbean population , received a rapturous response when she played the song at the Caribbean Music Festival at Wembley Arena , a month after its release .
Soon after that single , and the accompanying album Time Will Tell , Small stepped away from music , saying `` it was the end of the dream and it felt like the right time '' .
In later years , she lived in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ London , where she concentrated on writing , painting and raising her daughter .
When My Boy Lollipop was re-released in 1987 to mark Island Records ' 25th anniversary , the singer gave a rare interview to Thames TV , where she revealed she had , at one point , been penniless and sleeping rough in London .
However , she took the hard times in good grace , explaining : `` That 's all experience .
It was great .
I did n't worry because I knew what I was doing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ live .
It 's something I chose to do . ''
In 2011 , Jamaica 's Governor-General made Small a Commander in the Order of Distinction for her contribution to the Jamaican music industry .
The singer is survived by her daughter , Joan , who is also a musician based in London .
Tributes were led by actor Vas Blackwood , who said Small `` lit the fuse for Jamaican ska music '' .
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bbcuk--2020-05-06--Adele thanks healthcare 'angels' in birthday message

Adele has resurfaced to post a message thanking `` all of our first responders and essential workers who are keeping us safe while risking their lives '' .
The singer was writing on Instagram as she celebrated her 32nd birthday .
`` Thank you for the birthday love , '' she wrote .
`` I hope you 're all staying safe and sane during this crazy time . ''
The post , which is her first since Christmas , began trending worldwide after the singer 's followers began remarking on her weight loss .
The picture shows the star standing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a laptop also in shot .
Adele 's three studio albums have been named after the ages she was when she wrote them - 19 , 21 and 25 .
There is speculation that she will return with her first new album for five years later this year .
In February , video emerged of her performing at a friend 's wedding and telling guests : `` Expect my album in September . ''
In Wednesday 's Instagram post , Adele added that key workers `` are truly our angels '' , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bye thanks x . ''
The chart-topping singer split from husband Simon Konecki last year .
She posts a birthday message every year , and last year 's said : `` I 've changed drastically in the last couple years and I 'm still changing and that 's okay . ''
Commenting on this year 's post , Chrissy Teigen had one of the top replies on Instagram , writing : `` I mean are you kidding me . ''
YouTube make-up star James Charles said simply : `` YOU LOOK AMAZING .
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bbcuk--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: Theresa May criticises world pandemic response

Former Prime Minister Theresa May has criticised world leaders for failing `` to forge a coherent international response '' to the coronavirus pandemic .
Writing in the Times , she said states had `` gone their own way '' and treated the virus as a `` national issue '' .
Lack of international collaboration could lead to the world becoming more dangerous , she warned .
A No 10 source said there had been `` extensive co-operation '' , with the PM talking regularly to other G7 leaders .
Mrs May 's intervention comes as Boris Johnson and Sir Keir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Questions for the first time later .
They are also due to hold talks on the coronavirus crisis after the UK 's death toll became the highest in Europe .
A total of 29,427 people have died in the UK - passing Italy 's death toll of 29,315 .
But experts have said it could be months before full global comparisons can be made .
• Live : Latest from around the world • Can you compare the UK with Italy ?
In the Times , Mrs May wrote : `` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inability to forge a coherent international response to it , have raised new questions about the effectiveness of a system of cooperation through shared institutions . ''
She called on the government to `` embrace its wider international role beyond the day to day of the pandemic '' and not shy away from our `` responsibilities on the world stage '' .
She said the virus had been `` treated as a national issue for countries to deal with alone '' and while researchers and scientists may work together , there was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Governments are faced with an enormous challenge , and it is no surprise that they see as their first job the immediate protection of their own citizens , '' she said .
`` But there remains no collective international view as to what works best in dealing with the virus - nor does there seem to have been any attempt to form one .
Instead , states have each gone their own way . ''
Mrs May said this `` risks exacerbating the shift towards nationalism and absolutism in global politics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few 'strong men ' square up to each other and expect everyone else to choose between them would be a dangerous one , '' she said .
She said the international community still had to work with China , despite concerns within her party that Beijing has suppressed information and tried to exploit the pandemic - which began in Wuhan - to further its interests .
While China should face questions over its response , she said scrutiny should not become a fault line in international relations .
The UK 's international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find a coronavirus vaccine , Boris Johnson describing it as `` the most urgent endeavour of our lives '' .
Earlier this week , the PM chaired an international conference to try and raise more than £6bn towards the global response , although the US and China refused to take part .
The UK has pledged to give £388m in aid funding for research into tests , treatments and vaccines - part of a £744m commitment to help end the pandemic and support the global economy .
The prime minister is expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the UK 's lockdown on Sunday .
Social distancing measures have been in place in the UK since 23 March in a bid to limit the effects of the virus 's spread on the NHS .
Meanwhile , Tory MP Ranil Jayawardena has been appointed international trade minister , after Conor Burns resigned from the role this week .
Health minister Nadine Dorries has been promoted , to become a minister of state .

"But there remains no collective international view as to what works best in dealing with the virus - nor does there seem to have been any attempt to form one. Instead, states have each gone their own way."