bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Risk of death is higher for ethnic minorities

People from ethnic minorities are at a higher risk of dying from coronavirus , a report by Public Health England says .
It shows age remains the biggest risk factor , while being male is another .
The impact of Covid-19 is also `` disproportionate '' for other Asian , Caribbean and black ethnicities .
But it remains unclear why .
A trade union for doctors said the report was a `` missed opportunity '' for `` action '' to be taken to protect health workers who are from ethnic minorities .
The health secretary said the `` troubling '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right across the world people are angry about racial injustice '' .
On Monday night , the Department of Health and Social Care denied reports the delay was down to official concerns of potential civil unrest linked to global anger over the death of African-American George Floyd .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons the public was `` understandably angry about injustices '' and that he felt a `` deep responsibility because this pandemic has exposed huge disparities in the health of our nation '' .
`` Black lives matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas of our country which have worse health outcomes and we need to make sure all of these considerations are taken into account , and action is taken to level-up the health outcomes of people across this country , '' he said .
Speaking at the daily coronavirus briefing in Downing Street , Mr Hancock said `` much more work '' needed to be done to understand `` what 's driving these disparities '' .
`` We are absolutely determined to get to the bottom of this and find ways of closing this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he has asked equalities minister Kemi Badenoch to continue working on the issue alongside Public Health England ( PHE ) .
• Why are more BAME people dying from coronavirus ?
• Black Britons face 'twice the risk ' of virus death The BBC 's Rianna Croxford pressed Mr Hancock on whether there were any specific recommendations for people from ethnic minority backgrounds .
He said everyone in `` the different high risk categories '' highlighted in the report should follow social distancing guidelines `` very stringently '' .
Prof John Newton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worse impact on black and minority ethnic people , `` that is not necessarily because of their ethnicity '' and could instead be related to their job , for example .
He said the report 's findings needed to be `` widely discussed before deciding exactly what needs to be done '' .
`` The report if nothing else emphasises the complexity of what we 're seeing , so really we 're urging people not to jump to conclusions and institute measures which are not really justified by the data , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` lives depend on '' finding out why the virus disproportionately impacts black and minority ethnic people , and what actions the government was taking to stop it .
Davida Wilkins , a 38-year-old district nurse in the West Midlands , told the BBC she felt `` even more anxious '' about doing her job following the report 's publication .
She said she felt `` obligated '' to continue her front-line role but added she can not minimise the risks posed to her by the virus because `` it 's the colour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change it '' .
The rapid review was launched when it became clear that some people were getting more sick with coronavirus than others .
PHE reviewed thousands of existing health records and other virus data to look at disparities by : It is not possible to combine all of these factors together to judge an individual 's risk because of the way the source data is recorded , but the data does reveal clear inequalities .
The analysis on ethnicity and risk did not consider a person 's occupation or obesity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for getting seriously ill with coronavirus .
• If you strip out age and sex , people of Bangladeshi ethnicity have twice the risk of death than people of white British ethnicity • People aged 80 or older are 70 times more likely to die than those under 40 • Working-age men diagnosed with Covid-19 are twice as likely to die as women • The risk of dying with the virus is higher among those living in more deprived parts of the UK • Certain occupations - security guards , taxi or bus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff - are at higher risk • Virus death rates were highest among people of Black and Asian ethnic groups when compared to white British ethnicity • People of Chinese , Indian , Pakistani , other Asian , Caribbean and other Black ethnicity had between a 10 % and 50 % higher risk of death when compared to white British people The government had been under pressure to publish the findings of this inquiry .
It was due to be released by the end of May .
Now it 's here , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delay .
The main findings reinforce what we already know - that belonging to an ethnic minority group is a major risk factor .
It does n't move us forward in answering why , though .
The report acknowledges an important flaw in the analysis - it could n't factor in important risks , such as a person 's job and underlying health conditions , that increase the chance of dying with coronavirus .
Where you live and how much you earn are important considerations too .
Death rates for people living in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than double the least deprived areas .
The report says coronavirus has replicated and in some cases increased existing health inequalities .
It does n't mention how to address those to save more lives .
It acknowledges that more work is needed to understand and advise people about the risks .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticised the report for not providing recommendations for at-risk groups , adding that the virus `` thrives on inequality '' and `` inequality thrives on inaction '' .
Labour MP for Battersea Marsha de Cordova said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on how risks amplified by `` racial and health inequalities '' could be reduced .
She said the government `` must act immediately '' to mitigate the risks `` so that no more lives are lost '' .
While Labour MP for Tottenham David Lammy said families `` are living in fear '' and the government `` must take urgent action to protect at-risk groups '' .
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• THE R NUMBER : What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
Gill Walton , chief executive of the Royal College of Midwives , said while the report 's conclusions were `` helpful ... it does nothing to protect people '' .
She said `` clear guidance and support '' from the government should be given to help the NHS tackle the risk to workers .
The Royal College of Nursing pointed out that health care staff from black and ethnic minority groups faced an increased risk from the virus and that `` swift and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers .
While the council chair of the BMA , the doctors ' trade union , said the report was a `` missed opportunity '' .
`` The BMA and the wider community were hoping for a clear action plan to tackle the issues , not a re-iteration of what we already know .
We need practical guidance , '' Dr Chaand Nagpaul said .
• Bereaved families of NHS staff can stay in UK The equality watchdog says the government should produce a `` comprehensive race equality strategy '' in response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive of the Equality and Human Rights Commission , said : `` People are more than statistics , and we can not afford to ignore the broader context of entrenched race inequality across all areas of life .
Only a comprehensive race equality strategy will address these issues . ''
Latest government figures show 39,369 people with coronavirus have died in the UK , across all settings , with an increase of 324 deaths on Monday 's figures .
There were 1,613 new positive cases recorded in the past day .

"Black lives matter, as do those of the poorest areas of our country which have worse health outcomes and we need to make sure all of these considerations are taken into account, and action is taken to level-up the health outcomes of people across this country," he said.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Durham County Council accused of 'increasing' deaths

At least 25 people have died at a care home amid claims from an industry body that a council 's actions `` caused '' or `` increased Covid-19 deaths '' .
Melbury Court in Durham is thought to be the care home with the highest number of deaths in the UK .
County Durham has had the highest number of care home deaths in England and Wales .
Durham County Council said it `` strongly refuted '' the claim by the County Durham Care Home Association ( CDCHA ) .
Some patients went from the nearby University Hospital of North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for coronavirus or after a positive test .
Owners HC-One said the 87-bed home was now in `` recovery '' with many residents returning to health .
It is not known how many people there have been ill. A BBC investigation has discovered that in a conference call in late March , council officials were told plans to move hospital patients into care homes without testing would be disastrous .
The CDCHA offered to find a specific home or homes where Covid-19 positive or untested people could be cared for rather than have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was never acted on and now the CDCHA has calculated there has been an outbreak of coronavirus in 81 of the county 's 149 care homes .
Maria Vincent , who runs Crosshill Care Home in Stanhope , told the council in March that care homes were not set up to accept Covid-19 patients , and described it as `` neglect pure and simple '' .
She said : `` They knew at the beginning how vulnerable older people were because in Spain they 'd had numerous people who 'd died in care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit of forethought , true collaborative working , we could easily have got through this without the number of deaths we 've had . ''
The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics shows there have been 275 deaths in care homes in County Durham - more than in hospitals .
Local care providers said deaths in care homes in the county are twice as high as the average for the whole of England .
The council say high levels of ill health and deprivation are contributory factors .
In a letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the BBC , the CDCHA said : `` The council has pursued a policy which has caused and/or increased Covid-19 infections and deaths within care homes in County Durham '' .
Samuel Wilson died at Melbury Court in early May , aged 92 , after testing positive for Covid-19 following his return from a routine procedure at the University Hospital of North Durham .
The family had objected to him going to hospital , arguing it was too risky amid the pandemic and urged staff to manage his condition in the home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ granddaughter Tracey O'Kennedy said : `` The home was relentless for a family member to take him into hospital for a non-essential procedure in the middle of full lockdown .
`` In my opinion , they took an unnecessary risk , a risk that cost granddad his life . ''
Initially , in County Durham the council initially tied additional funding for coronavirus-related costs to homes being willing to accept people who had tested positive for the virus or were untested , although this was later changed .
Durham County Council said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the CDHCA that it had contributed to care home deaths .
It said it had considered the idea of a separate care home for Covid-19 patients but felt it was not appropriate due to the predicted number of cases .
Jane Robinson , corporate director for adults and health , said : `` We followed national guidelines and we 've done absolutely everything that we can do .
`` We 've put in additional financial support , provided PPE , and we 've provided training and support and psychological support for our care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• IMPACT : What the virus does to the body • RECOVERY : How long does it take ?
• LOCKDOWN : How can we lift restrictions ?
• ENDGAME : How do we get out of this mess ?

Some of the family had objected to him going to hospital, arguing it was too risky amid the pandemic and urged staff to manage his condition in the home, but they were persuaded.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Massive queues as McDonald's reopens Scottish drive-thru restaurants

The re-opening of some Scottish McDonald 's drive-thru restaurants has seen long queues of cars being directed by police .
The fast-food giant closed all of its outlets more than 10 weeks ago as lockdown restrictions came into force .
The company said it was now aiming to reopen 1,000 of its drive-thru or delivery outlets by Thursday .
McDonald 's said Perspex screens , face coverings , gloves and social distancing measures were in place .
Last week the company said that it would reveal the locations of the restaurants that were to open their doors on the day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They said they were also working with police and local authorities .
Police could be seen monitoring the queue at the Pollokshaws branch in Glasgow on Tuesday morning .
Staff were also seen directing traffic at the restaurant in Bucksburn , Aberdeen as drive-thru lanes reopened and traffic backed up .
For the moment , McDonald said it was offering a limited menu only and was capping spending at £25 .
Rivals , including Subway , Burger King , Pret A Manger , Nando 's and Wagamama , have recently laid out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurant chains get to grips with social distancing .
A McDonald 's spokeswoman said : `` This is only possible following the hard work of the teams in our 44 pilot restaurants . ''
She added : `` With fewer employees working in our kitchens and service areas , our teams will still need your patience and support as they continue to adjust to the new ways of working . ''
Other measures the company promised would be in operation were : • Social distancing in kitchens and service areas to help create @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• Perspex screens at Drive-Thru windows as well as screens and floor markings in specific areas in the restaurant and kitchen .
• Staff will be asked to confirm they are fit and able to work and contactless thermometers will be used to take employee temperatures on arrival for every shift .

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bbcuk--2020-06-02--Drug gangs on 'recruitment drive' during lockdown

Drug gangs have been on a `` recruitment drive '' during lockdown , targeting vulnerable children and increasingly girls , according to a report .
They are being groomed to carry drugs , because they are unknown to police , the National Youth Agency says .
And social media and `` unsafe outdoor spaces '' are being used to recruit them .
The children 's commissioner for England warned with schools and youth clubs closed , thousands of vulnerable young people had `` simply gone off the radar '' .
`` Lockdown removed many of the usual ways of identifying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gangs , '' Anne Longfield added .
The National Youth Agency report , based on responses from youth workers on the ground , is the first detailed examination of drug gangs during lockdown .
It has been sent to the government .
`` There is increased concern around the use of girls for gang activity '' , it says , because they find it easier to move around during lockdown .
In Bristol , where children make up nearly a fifth of the population , 65 have been identified as at `` highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deserted adventure playground , in Hartcliffe , in the south of the city , lead youth worker Rob Farrow remembers , before the lockdown was implemented on 23 March , a safe place buzzing with young people .
`` As soon as they walk in through those gates , they know 100 % they are safe , '' he says .
`` It gives them that moment to relax and be children without being worried that they are going to be exploited into a gang .
`` What you might see through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Actually , the reality is those at risk are now way more at risk .
`` And those that were n't at risk are now at risk .
`` What we 've seen is young females introduced by their young male peers in order to get involved in criminal activity that we had n't seen previously .
`` The worst thing is , because we 're not doing this work , we ca n't see those kids .
Mr Farrow 's colleague , Joe Secret , says : `` We now see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that were never involved in [ crime ] before '' .
Another youth worker , Omari Cato , says : `` These are very fragile minds that do n't quite understand that they 're being groomed .
National Youth Agency chief executive Leigh Middleton said : `` Covid-19 brought youth services in many areas to an abrupt halt , just at the time it was needed most .
`` Without ready access to a youth worker , we fear a surge in violence and exploitation post-lockdown . ''
Meanwhile , police have used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lines used to sell drugs .
`` We need to design out the ability to run these lines , '' Metropolitan Police Service Commissioner Cressida Dick said .
`` We will work with whoever necessary to restrict the ability of these individuals to carry out this activity and destroy the business model of county lines entirely . ''

"It gives them that moment to relax and be children without being worried that they are going to be exploited into a gang.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Discrimination row over MPs queuing up to vote

MPs who can not attend Parliament for age or medical reasons will be able to question the government remotely but not vote , says Jacob Rees-Mogg .
It came as MPs trooped through the Commons in socially-distanced lines to vote for an end to voting from home .
Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg said another vote will be held on Wednesday to allow those who can not attend in person to take part in debates .
But critics say not allowing that group to vote remotely is `` discriminatory '' .
MPs have been using a `` hybrid '' system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and some appearing via video link , since mid-April and some votes had been held remotely for the first time in Parliament 's history .
• MPs to vote on future of virtual Commons But Mr Rees-Mogg has scrapped that system , saying it does not allow MPs to properly hold the government to account and they must attend Parliament in person .
Under the new plan , in place until 7 July , Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has had to come up with a physical voting method that respects coronavirus guidance from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strongly criticised by MPs from all sides of the House , who warn it will exclude vulnerable MPs and those with caring responsibilities .
A number of Scottish MPs also said they worried that making the long journey to and from Westminster risked endangering their families and constituents .
But Mr Rees-Mogg said : `` This House plays a invaluable role in holding the government to account and debating legislation which can only properly be fulfilled when members are here in person . ''
A bid by procedure Committee chairwoman Karen Bradley to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue failed to pass by 57 votes .
MPs then voted on the government 's plan , which passed by 261 votes to 163 .
Thirty-one Conservative MPs voted against the government , including Ms Bradley and other select committee chairs such as Tom Tugendhat and Greg Clark , and former ministers such as Tracey Crouch and John Redwood .
During the votes , MPs had to queue up outside the Commons chamber to observe social distancing , before walking to the Speaker 's chair to say their name and which way they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bradley 's amendment took 46 minutes - compared to the usual time of around 15 minutes before social distancing measures were brought in .
The vote on the government 's plan took 36 minutes .
Some MPs posted pictures of the queue outside the building or in Portcullis House - a building opposite the Houses of Parliament where many MPs ' offices are located .
Labour MP Alex Davies-Jones said the way the vote took place had made her `` angry '' , telling the BBC : `` The whole voting system has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , dangerous and unsafe .
`` If I have n't already had Covid then I 'm now resigned to the fact that I definitely will . ''
The government 's motion - set to be voted on on Wednesday - states that only MPs who have `` self-certified that they are unable to attend Westminster for medical or public health reasons '' will be able to take part remotely in some proceedings .
They wo n't be allowed to vote .
Labour MP Chris Bryant raised further concerns about the government 's plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were `` deeply concerned '' that shielding MPs would have to `` justify '' why they were at home , and that parents dealing with childcare problems `` should n't have to claim medical reasons '' .
The so-called hybrid proceedings have been in place since mid-April , enabling MPs to join proceedings over Zoom via screens in the chamber , and to take part in votes online .
The measures were initially due to end on 12 May , but MPs agreed to a motion from the government to extend them until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whitsun recess .
Some MPs welcomed Mr Rees-Mogg 's concession allowing some MPs to take part in debates remotely - but many said it did not go far enough .
She added : `` I do n't know if the leader is living in another universe but the pandemic is still going on .
It is not right , or just , or fair . ''
The SNP 's Westminster leader Ian Blackford said : `` The government 's official line was if you could work from home then you should .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we should work from home , because that 's the right thing to do - not just for Parliament , but for our family , our colleagues and our constituents . ''
Earlier , Tory MP Robert Halfon , who has been shielding at home , told BBC News that scrapping virtual proceedings was `` democratically unjust '' for MPs who could not return to Parliament , leaving them as `` parliamentary eunuchs '' .
He added : `` This stern and unbending attitude of the powers that be is unfortunately why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conservative Party . ''


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Clara Amfo praised for emotional anti-racism speech on Radio 1

BBC Radio 1 host Clara Amfo has been praised for making a candid , emotional speech on air about George Floyd 's death and her own mental health .
Speaking on Tuesday , Amfo said she had been so affected by Mr Floyd 's death that she had missed her show on Monday .
`` I did n't have the mental strength to face you guys yesterday , '' said the DJ , her voice breaking with emotion .
`` I was sat on my sofa crying , angry , confused ... stuck at the news of yet another brutalised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 46-year-old African-American man , died last week after a white police officer knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes .
Minneapolis policeman Derek Chauvin has been sacked and charged with third-degree murder .
Amfo was speaking on `` Blackout Tuesday '' , an initiative demanding racial justice and structural change in the wake of the killing .
Originally organised by the music industry , it has involved stars like Rihanna , Lady Gaga and Drake observing a day of silence , and record labels suspending normal business for 24 hours .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ media , with many users posting a simple black square , alongside messages of solidarity and links to anti-racism resources .
• Live updates from around the US • Music industry 'has a long way to go' Radio 1 and its sister station 1Xtra have been reflecting the movement by hosting discussions about the issues surrounding Mr Floyd 's death , and playing songs that address black empowerment and identity .
Speaking on her mid-morning show , Amfo said the events in Minneapolis had reinforced a feeling among black people `` that people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not want us '' .
She added : `` In other words , you want my talent , but you do n't want me .
`` There is a false idea that racism - and in this case anti-blackness - is just name-calling and physical violence , when it is so much more insidious than that .
`` One of my favourite thinkers is a woman called Amanda Seales , and she says this and I feel it deeply when she says , 'You can not enjoy the rhythm and ignore the blues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my chest . ''
The presenter ended her speech by playing Kendrick Lamar 's Alright , which became associated with the Black Lives Matter movement after its release .
The song opens with the line : `` All my life I had to fight , '' and references police officers who `` wan na kill us dead in the street , for sure '' .
`` I want to say to our black listeners , I hope you feel seen and heard today , '' Amfo concluded .
`` And to those of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are doing the work , to be committed to doing better , I see you , so let 's do this .
Let 's all be anti-racist . ''
Amfo 's speech was widely praised by listeners and fellow broadcasters , with many saying they had been moved to tears .
Fellow Radio 1 DJ Arielle Free said : `` Clara Amfo is an incredible human being who showed the world today a superhuman strength and bravery whilst broadcasting on the radio .
`` The most powerful broadcast I have ever heard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adoration of her in every way shape and form .
So much love . ''
`` Thank you , Clara Amfo , thank you , '' said ITV news presenter Charlene White .
`` So many people still confused as to why George Floyd 's death has hit so many of us hard .
Clara sums it up so well .
Hear her anger , hear her pain .
I feel it too . ''
`` Clara Amfo is just one of our finest and smartest broadcasters , '' wrote Pointless host Richard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Radio 1 audience , with great honesty , power and truth , about the murder of George Floyd . ''
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

"And to those of you that already let me know that you are doing the work, to be committed to doing better, I see you, so let's do this. Let's all be anti-racist."


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Public told to cut water use amid surge in lockdown demand

Water companies are urging people to use water more carefully during the coronavirus lockdown .
They are asking people to avoid hoses and sprinklers , and not to fill paddling pools .
However , so far a full hosepipe ban has not been imposed .
Companies are responding to a double water whammy from the record dry spring and a surge in demand as people spend more time at home during the lockdown .
February this year was the wettest on record and you might have thought the UK had enough H2O - following a drenching winter , rivers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barely rained for three subsequent months – another record .
Then came coronavirus and lockdown meant people stayed home in the sunshine .
• May was sunniest UK month on record • Water firm 'ca n't keep up ' with lockdown demand Christine McGourty , chief executive of Water UK , which represents water companies , told BBC News : “ We ’ re seeing truly incredible surges of demand .
“ People 's patterns of using water have changed with the weather - and more people at home because of Covid .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sprinklers that are the biggest challenge .
So we ’ re just asking people to save a little bit of water and that ’ ll make a huge difference.
” In some places water demand is said to be 25 % higher than normal .
Reservoirs are still in a healthy state , but some firms can ’ t get enough water to the taps and pressure is dropping .
Meanwhile the long-term weather forecast suggests more dry summer months to come .
Farmers are fearing potential drought .
In fact , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water firms and the farmers themselves need to find ways of living with less water as the climate changes .

In some places water demand is said to be 25% higher than normal. Reservoirs are still in a healthy state, but some firms can’t get enough water to the taps and pressure is dropping.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Lockdown 'breach' Liverpool deputy mayor suspended over gathering

Liverpool 's deputy mayor has been suspended for two months for breaching lockdown rules after a gathering in her garden .
Mayor Joe Anderson said Lynnie Hinnigan had apologised after an investigation by the local Labour Party into the apparent birthday get-together .
Mr Anderson said : `` We all should stick by the rules . ''
Ms Hinnigan previously told the media that people attending only dropped off presents and she stayed away from them .
The inquiry was launched after footage emerged showing a get-together involving about 12 people in the garden of Ms Hinnigan , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hinnigan had tweeted about it being her birthday .
She had previously told the Liverpool Echo that her daughter had secretly arranged a celebration that involved family and friends dropping off presents .
The Labour Party inquiry also looked at allegations that Councillor Barry Kushner , the cabinet Member for children 's services , held a gathering on land near his home on 9 May .
A statement from Mr Anderson , who is shielding at home due to health issues , said the investigation found both cabinet members had `` breached '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this situation and expect all of us in Liverpool to be considerate of how our actions as we come out of lockdown will affect others , '' the mayor said in a tweet .
Mr Kushner was suspended for two months last week .
Both councillors - who were `` suspended from their cabinet positions '' - have been contacted for a comment .


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Frankie & Benny's owner: Some sites won't reopen

The owner of Frankie & Benny 's and Garfunkel 's is set to tell staff that a `` large number '' of its outlets will not reopen after lockdown .
In an email to staff seen by the BBC , the Restaurant Group says many sites are `` no longer viable to trade and will remain closed permanently . ''
The group appears to be speeding up previous plans to shut restaurants as trade suffers due to the pandemic .
Staff will be told if their workplaces will remain shut by email on Wednesday .
`` The Covid-19 crisis has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so we 've taken the tough decision to close these restaurants now , '' the email said .
The message was sent to managers in the group 's Leisure Division , which includes more than 200 Frankie & Benny 's outlets .
It is not yet clear which ones will be shut , or how many .
Those currently working in sites due to stay closed were told : `` Unfortunately , unless there are any suitable alternative roles identified , it 's likely your role will be made redundant . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ furloughed ? '
• When will shops open and what will the rules be ?
It is one of Britain 's largest restaurant operators , with some 22,000 staff currently on furlough .
It also owns the Wagamama chain and some pub units , which are not part of the division which received the email .
The Restaurant Group also said in March that 61 out of 80 branches of its Tex-Mex dining chain Chiquito 's would remain closed permanently as it fell into administration .
It cited the Covid-19 outbreak as having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on trading '' .
However , the group had already announced in February , prior to the introduction of lockdown measures , that it would speed up existing plans to close restaurants .
Initially it had planned to make 150 closures - which were first signalled in 2019 - over a six-year period .
It then said it would close 90 restaurants by the end of 2021 .
`` I feel completely overwhelmed and upset , '' says Georgia .
She has been working as a part-time waitress at one Frankie & Benny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm angry , as they feel as though staff are disposable , '' she says , adding that the lack of certainty around work amid lockdown has created mental stress .
`` I just ca n't believe that they would send that kind of message to managers without any warning , '' she adds .
The group had already seen sales falling across many outlets .
That came despite stronger revenues across the wider group in its Wagamamas and pub units .
It said in February that like-for-like sales in its leisure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new restaurants opening ) , which includes Frankie & Benny 's and Chiquito , fell by 2.8 % in 2019 .
Many casual dining chains had already been struggling in the face of rising overheads and falling consumer spending .
But those in the hospitality sector have seen their problems worsen due to the coronavirus pandemic , as customers have been forced to stay at home amid lockdown .
Carluccio 's , for example , was bought out of administration by the owner of Giraffe restaurants .
Despite its rescue , more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Italian restaurant chain , more than half of its total workforce .
The administrators said the lockdown meant difficult decisions had to be taken .
Restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of Covid-19 forced most cafes and restaurants to close in March , but some have since reopened as takeaways only .
When lockdown was initially announced in March , trade association Hospitality UK said it was `` catastrophic for businesses and jobs '' .
Its chief executive Kate Nicholls warned at the time that the measures could `` lead to thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hundreds of thousands of job losses '' .
Pubs , restaurants , hairdressers , hotels , cinemas and places of worship will be allowed to open from 4 July at the earliest in England , if they can meet social distancing measures .

Despite its rescue, more than 1,000 jobs will be lost at the Italian restaurant chain, more than half of its total workforce. The administrators said the lockdown meant difficult decisions had to be taken.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--House hanging over Eastchurch cliff edge collapses

A house that was left hanging over a cliff edge has collapsed .
The property in Eastchurch , Kent , fell down at about 03:00 BST according to neighbours , who said the family had to leave with just the clothes on their backs .
It had been left partially over the edge following a cliff fall on Friday , when 20 homes were evacuated .
Swale Borough Council urged people to stay away from the area in case of further cliff falls .
Fifteen people who had to leave their homes remain in temporary accommodation .
After the house @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a car and garage fell down the cliff face on Sunday .
The family had left the property on Friday .
In a statement issued through their friend and neighbour Gemma Stanley , the owner said : `` We left the property with just the clothes on our backs .
My children did n't even have shoes on .
Our lives have been turned upside down . ''
Another neighbour Edwin Cane said an extension to the side of the house was left hanging until it fell off and ended up `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down there '' .
He said the main building had collapsed on the top of the cliff .
He has been sleeping in his car to protect his own property from being burgled while empty .
`` I 've got a dream home and I 'm not going to let it go without a fight , '' he said .
Daisy Batchelor , 93 , was among those who had leave her property , but she said she moved back to the house she had lived in for 33 years , adding : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The Sheppey Coastal Protection Group has demanded immediate action .
Spokesman Malcom Newell said : `` It really needs to be fixed now , not next week , not the week after , now .
They need to do do something with it now . ''
In 2015 the Environment Agency said it had considered a coastal defence scheme , but the number of properties in the area did not justify the cost .
A spokesman for Swale Borough Council said : `` Neighbouring properties are currently being inspected to assess @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we are urging people to stay away from the area in case of further collapses .
`` Fifteen people from four households who have been evacuated remain in temporary accommodation and we are now working to find them somewhere safe closer to their property . ''
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Daisy Batchelor, 93, was among those who had leave her property, but she said she moved back to the house she had lived in for 33 years, adding: "We had nowhere else to go."


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Liverpool burglars steal elderly man's food from home

Two `` despicable '' burglars broke into the home of an elderly man and stole the food from his kitchen .
The victim , aged in his 80s , had a knife held to his neck throughout the ordeal in Liverpool , local councillor Gerard Woodhouse said .
Police said the man was unharmed but left `` extremely distressed '' by the attack on Saturday morning in Earl Road , Kensington .
The thieves also stole documents , clothes and medication .
Mr Woodhouse said the man uses a walking frame and has serious health conditions .
`` He had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his food .
Words fail me , '' the councillor said .
`` He had a packet of opened biscuits on his table which they stole , and then they took all the food he had .
They even emptied his fridge .
`` They held a knife to his neck .
I just ca n't believe it .
I see a lot of things as a councillor but this is one of the worst . ''
Mr Woodhouse said the food was later replaced by volunteers from the nearby L6 community centre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burglary as `` despicable '' and urged anyone with information to come forward .

"He had a packet of opened biscuits on his table which they stole, and then they took all the food he had. They even emptied his fridge.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Paraglider dies crashing into power cables in Stroud

A paraglider died when he crashed into overhead power lines in a Gloucestershire field .
The victim , aged in @ @ @ @ @ power lines in Eastington , near Stroud , at about 13:20 BST on Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ out as the cables came down , the fire service said , and power was @ @ @ @ @ .
The paraglider was pronounced dead at the scene and his next of kin have @ @ @ @ @ .
Western Power said it expected to get electricity restored at the affected homes by @ @

A number of fires broke out as the cables came down, the fire service said, and power was affected in about 500 homes.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Evening update as report finds ethnic minorities are at greater risk

Here are five things you need to know about the coronavirus outbreak this Tuesday evening .
We 'll have another update for you on Wednesday morning .
1 .
Being from an ethnic minority is a risk factor People from ethnic minorities are at a higher risk of dying from coronavirus than white British people , a much-anticipated report by Public Health England says .
It shows age remains the biggest risk factor , while being male is another , as is living in a city .
But the impact of Covid-19 is also `` disproportionate '' for people from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's unclear why - or what can be done about it .
The government is stressing it is taking the report 's findings seriously and asked equalities minister Kemi Badenoch to continue working on the issue alongside PHE .
`` Black lives matter , '' Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the daily government briefing .
In the meantime , he says those in at risk groups should `` stringently '' follow social distancing and hand-washing advice .
There 's more criticism of the way the government has been handling its testing data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK Statistics Authority .
Sir David Norgrove has sent Mr Hancock a strongly-worded letter , in which he says the presentation of figures appears to be aimed at showing `` the largest possible number of tests , even at the expense of understanding '' .
The government has not so far explained how many home test kits sent out to the public have actually been returned .
Figures for the number of people tested as opposed to the number of tests carried out are not currently available .
There has been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests which has helped make testing more widely available , says our health editor , Hugh Pym , but the message from the statistics watchdog is that public confidence will be undermined if the numbers are not transparent .
Are the figures on testing misleading ?
Read more from BBC Reality Check here .
Figures released by the Office for National Statistics showed there were 2,872 deaths linked to coronavirus registered in the UK in the week ending 22 May - the lowest weekly figure since March .
Overall , there have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 62,000 above what would be expected for the time of year - and 48,106 where coronavirus was mentioned on the death certificate .
Back at the start of the UK lockdown , government scientific advisers said 20,000 deaths from the virus would be a `` good '' outcome .
The UK passed that milestone back in April .
Meanwhile , the latest government figures report that 39,369 people with coronavirus have died in the UK , across all settings , with an increase of 324 deaths on Monday 's figures .
Tensions are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cope with large numbers of visitors heading to beaches in the sunny weather .
It does n't help that swimming pools are still not able to open , despite the easing of some other lockdown restrictions .
Swimming organisations are drawing up plans for what new rules pools might have to bring in when they do eventually reopen - including asking swimmers to arrive `` beach ready '' in their costumes instead of using changing rooms .
Meanwhile , many have been trying to cool off at home instead .
People spending more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ record-breaking run of dry and sunny weather is causing a surge in demand for water and something of a double-whammy for the UK 's water companies .
They are asking us to be careful how much we use , avoid hosepipes and sprinklers and not to fill paddling pools .
Empty streets , home-made haircuts and a giant NHS thank you cut into a field are among 200 images chosen by Historic England to best reflect the nation 's experience of lockdown .
The organisation received more than 3,000 responses to its appeal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for inclusion in its archive - the first time it had made such a call since World War Two .
Get a longer coronavirus briefing from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning , by signing up here .
... you can find out everything you need to know about social distancing and the two-metre rule with this explainer from our science editor , David Shukman .
Find more information , advice and guides on our coronavirus page and get the latest in our live page .
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Tensions are continuing in some coastal areas struggling to cope with large numbers of visitors heading to beaches in the sunny weather. It doesn't help that swimming pools are still not able to open, despite the easing of some other lockdown restrictions. Swimming organisations are drawing up plans for what new rules pools might have to bring in when they do eventually reopen - including asking swimmers to arrive "beach ready" in their costumes instead of using changing rooms.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Jurassic Coast beach crowds 'showed shocking disregard for area'

The Jurassic Coast has been treated with `` shocking '' disrespect by visitors since lockdown restrictions were eased , conservation groups have said .
The Unesco World Heritage site has been deluged with crowds in recent days .
The Jurassic Coast Trust said many were `` determined to arrive at any cost '' and volunteers described `` horrendous '' amounts of litter being abandoned .
Current rules state that households can drive any distance in England to destinations such as parks and beaches .
The Jurassic Coast Unesco World Heritage Site covers 95 miles ( 150km ) of coastline from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rocks and fossils which record 185 million years of Earth 's history '' .
The Clean Jurassic Coast group said waste had been buried in the sand , and washed into the sea and caves along the coast .
Volunteer Anna Taylor said : `` I was picking things up that I really should n't have to pick up .
`` I had litter thrown at me , I had bags and bags of rubbish dumped near me to deal with .
`` I 've had people shouting at me when I asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them . ''
Jurassic Coast Trust chief executive Lucy Culkin said it had been a `` difficult and challenging '' weekend .
On Saturday three people were airlifted to hospital after tombstoning from the limestone arch at Durdle Door Beach .
Ms Culkin said the trust received hundreds of complaints about `` appalling '' volumes of litter on beaches , as well as human waste , sanitary items and disposable barbecues on footpaths in dry , hot conditions .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' It was clear to see that some had all but forgotten the guidelines of social distancing or welfare for themselves and others , or indeed any respect for the natural environment they were visiting , '' she said .
`` To witness the disregard with which Durdle Door , our beaches and coast paths have been treated is shocking . ''
Ms Culkin said the trust supported Dorset Council 's plea to the prime minister to review unlimited travel guidelines .
A government spokesman said : `` Over the course of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge sacrifices , and thanks to the efforts of the public the government 's five tests are being met and we can begin slowly moving towards the next phase of lifting the lockdown .
`` But we all still need to play our part by staying alert , and continuing to follow social distancing guidelines .
`` The overwhelming majority of the public are following the rules , and we expect the police to use their discretion , judgment and experience in enforcing them . ''

A government spokesman said: "Over the course of the pandemic people across the country have made huge sacrifices, and thanks to the efforts of the public the government's five tests are being met and we can begin slowly moving towards the next phase of lifting the lockdown.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--The Papers: 'Joy' over prospect of summer holidays for Britons

The Sun suggests the UK is heading for `` three boosts '' in its fight against the virus .
It @ @ @ @ @ to produce 250 million pints for pubs in the next two weeks amid hopes they @ @ @ @ @ of June .
The paper also suggests that the number of weekly excess deaths could @ @ @ @ @ and EasyJet are planning to fly to three in four destinations by August .

And finally, if we humans are struggling, then at least the sea horses are doing OK - according to a report in the i newspaper.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Teenage boy's body found in River Irwell

The body of a 14-year-old boy has been pulled from a river in Greater Manchester .
Emergency services were called @ @ @ @ @ Salford at about 15:30 BST after reports of concern for the boy 's welfare .
@ @ @ @ @ search teams discovered the boy 's body in the River Irwell a short time later @ @ @ @ @ his family and inquiries are ongoing .

Emergency services were called to Clifton Country Park in Salford at about 15:30 BST after reports of concern for the boy's welfare.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Two charged after 60-mile trip to climb mountain

Two people broke lockdown restrictions by travelling more than 60 miles ( 96km ) from Glasgow to climb a mountain near Crianlarich , say police .
The 27-year-old man and 23-year-old woman had to be rescued after getting into difficulty on Beinn A ' Chroin on Saturday afternoon .
Killin Mountain Rescue Team was called out to help them .
Police Scotland said a man and a woman had been charged in connection with culpable and reckless conduct .
Lockdown restrictions have been eased in Scotland , but people have been asked to travel no further than about five miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people had `` not been suitably equipped '' for the climb .
Beinn A ' Chroin rises to 942m ( 3,090ft ) and is one of Scotland 's Munros , a mountain more than 914.4m ( 3,000ft ) high .
Chief Inspector Gill Marshall , area commander for Stirling , said they had put their own lives and those of their rescuers at risk .
She said : `` The regulations remain that people should only leave the house for very limited purposes , for example for basic necessities , for exercise or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for work which can not be done from home .
`` We recognise that people have made significant sacrifices until now and while the temptation may be to head straight for one of our beauty spots , we would ask people to use their judgement and avoid going to places which are normally busy during the good weather or , in this case , could put individuals ' lives at risk .
`` We want people to enjoy our outdoor spaces safely and exercise should be done locally , not exceeding five miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rescue said the majority of hillwalkers and climbers had heeded lockdown guidance , and thanked them for doing that .
Chairman Damon Powell said : `` We are also aware how deeply frustrating it is when everyone who is making such sacrifices see people openly flouting the guidance .
We are pleased to see the police taking action against such individuals . ''

"We recognise that people have made significant sacrifices until now and while the temptation may be to head straight for one of our beauty spots, we would ask people to use their judgement and avoid going to places which are normally busy during the good weather or, in this case, could put individuals' lives at risk.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: NI health minister announces an £11.7m package for care homes

Health Minister Robin Swan has announced a further £11.7m in funding to support care homes .
The money will be used to help pay staff when off on sick leave , provide extra support for cleaning costs and to purchase specialist equipment .
It will also be used to support the widespread use of tablet devices in care homes .
These will help residents communicate with families in the continuing absence of visits .
`` Care homes remain at the forefront of our battle against the virus and it is essential that they are provided with as much support as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I keep reminding everyone that the threat from coronavirus is far from over and this certainly applies to our care homes . ''
More than half of coronavirus-related deaths in Northern Ireland have happened in care homes , according to official figures released last week .
Mr Swann , speaking at the coronavirus briefing on Tuesday , said the threat would be `` with us on a long-term basis '' and that it was `` vital that we learn lessons from the devastating experiences in care homes not just here , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that about 50 % of staff and residents have now been tested for Covid-19 as part of a testing programme covering all homes in Northern Ireland .
He also revealed that a rapid learning initiative is also being set up to identify lessons from care home experiences of Covid-19 .
'One life is too many' '' We owe it to those who lost their lives in care homes and their families to learn and implement lessons , '' said Mr Swann .
`` Northern Ireland is far from unique in experiencing these tragedies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many and a matter of great regret . ''
About £2m of the extra funding will be used to purchase equipment including thermometers and pulse oximeters - to enable recording of clinical observations .
This will help with early identification of a wider range of Covid-19 symptoms that may indicate an infection and allow for prompt clinical responses .
On the future reform of the care home sector , the minister said he was looking at ways of improving accountability , and to be able to monitor those care homes which repeatedly fall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also expressed concern that the compliance of the restrictions is starting to `` fray '' for some people , pointing to the large gatherings of people at some beauty spots and beaches in recent days .
He appealed to the public not to flout the regulations but he also rejected calls for police to be given more power to deal with those who break the rules .
Earlier on Tuesday , TUV leader Jim Allister called for the 2m social distancing rule to be included in legislation , but Mr Swan said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police .
While the 2m rule is included in guidelines which accompany the legislation , it is not part of the law .

Mr Swann, speaking at the coronavirus briefing on Tuesday, said the threat would be "with us on a long-term basis" and that it was "vital that we learn lessons from the devastating experiences in care homes not just here, but internationally".


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus in Wales: New lockdown measures 'may be needed in winter'

Some lockdown measures may have to be reintroduced in the winter , Health Minister Vaughan Gething has warned .
A top Welsh Government official said there was a `` real prospect '' of a resurgence of the virus later in the year .
Mr Gething said it will depend on the prevalence of coronavirus .
Meanwhile the minister announced NHS health boards are looking at how they can restart planned NHS operations and cancer services .
Speaking at the Welsh Government 's daily press briefing , Mr Gething said more details would be published on Wednesday .
On Monday restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two different households could meet outdoors , but it is only if they travel in a local area .
Frank Atherton , the chief medical officer for Wales , has warned of a `` real prospect of a resurgence in viral transmission in the autumn and winter '' .
In a statement on the recent review of the lockdown regulations , he said the virus is `` likely to thrive in cooler , indoor environments particularly where people gather closely together '' .
He recommended that messages to the public highlight `` the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the winter if viral activity increases '' .
Lockdown is reviewed every three weeks .
Dr Atherton also called for the Welsh Government to use `` the next review period to develop proposals for further increasing opportunities for the public to safely use a wider range of outdoor spaces '' .
What did Vaughan Gething say ?
`` Some of the measures we 've been able to unlock are because the time of year we 're in , '' Mr Gething told the press conference .
But it was also because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less in direct sunlight outdoors , but it lasts much longer on indoor surfaces '' .
• The different rules around the UK '' So we do need to think about the fact that we may have to reintroduce some lockdown measures in the winter , '' the minister said .
`` That depends on the reservoir of coronavirus that exists , it depends on people 's behaviour , as well '' There is not a `` hard or fast set of measures to reintroduce , '' he added .
`` but we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we get '' .
Mr Gething said it was `` really important '' that people were not afraid to access non-Covid related health services during the pandemic .
The minister said people were still avoiding seeking medical care because they have been worried about going to hospital .
Non-urgent surgery and appointments were cancelled in Wales in March to maximise capacity to deal with the Coronavirus outbreak .
But emergency and urgent care services have continued to operate .
Mr Gething said : `` It 's really important people do n't put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS is there to help everyone . ''
He said daily attendances at A & E departments were a third lower and the biggest decrease in activity had been among children under 16 , where activity had more than halved .
Responding to a question about the build up of waiting lists for non-Covid illnesses and whether this would clash with a second wave of the virus , Mr Gething said plans were in place to look at how normal NHS services may resume soon .
Mr Gething added that an upcoming review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would provide `` a more strategic view on how we can make use of the capacity we 've created without compromising our ability to respond to a potential further peak in coronavirus '' .
The Royal College of Surgeons ( RCS ) said some routine operations have become urgent as a result of elective surgeries being suspended to tackle the coronavirus .
Richard Johnson , director of RCS in Wales , said : `` I think prior to the pandemic we did have a long waiting list in Wales anyway and obviously , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turning off elective surgery , the length of time people are waiting has increased .
`` Unfortunately , in some situations - unfortunate from the patient point of view - some of their symptoms will deteriorate and the need for surgery becomes more urgent . ''

Responding to a question about the build up of waiting lists for non-Covid illnesses and whether this would clash with a second wave of the virus, Mr Gething said plans were in place to look at how normal NHS services may resume soon.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Council rejects call to close Blackpool to visitors

A petition calling for Blackpool to close to visitors for four weeks to protect locals from Covid-19 has been rejected by the town 's council .
Resident Brian Perry said he set up the petition , which has more than 10,000 signatories , after seeing the resort `` invaded by people '' at the weekend .
The town currently has one of the highest infection rates in England .
Council leader Simon Blackburn said creating a local lockdown or closing the beach was `` impossible '' .
Mr Perry said he had decided to start the petition as many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socially distancing '' .
`` We already have a high number of cases and people who live here are frightened of the virus escalating , '' he said .
`` Some of the toilets are n't open , so where are they cleaning their hands ? ''
He added that the visitors had left the town `` filthy '' .
The Labour-led council 's leader said any closure would be contrary to UK law and current government guidance and `` demanding the council do the impossible , like a local lockdown or closing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its residents a huge disservice . ''
He said the idea that anyone could `` meaningfully barrier off or otherwise prevent access to seven miles of promenade or beach is demonstrably absurd '' .
Tourism body Visit Blackpool rebranded as Do Not Visit Blackpool to discourage visitors when lockdown restrictions were eased in May .
At the time , Mr Blackburn said the easing message meant there was `` nothing we can do '' to stop visitors , but he urged people to stay away .
The organisation has since changed again to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leader said `` recognised government restrictions have been revised '' .
The town 's two Conservative MPs Paul Maynard and Scott Benton both said visitors should stay away `` for a little longer '' .
Mr Benton added that the behaviour of the visitors who had ignored social distancing and left the beaches strewn with litter was `` unacceptable '' .
Public Health England figures show 643 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Blackpool , out of a local population of 139,446 .
There have been 94 deaths in the town linked to Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise

The Labour-led council's leader said any closure would be contrary to UK law and current government guidance and "demanding the council do the impossible, like a local lockdown or closing the beaches, does the town and its residents a huge disservice."


bbcuk--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Labour urges PM to stop 'winging it' over easing restrictions

Boris Johnson 's `` mismanagement '' of the easing of virus restrictions risks a second wave of infections , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has warned .
In a Guardian interview , he urged the PM to `` get a grip '' and restore public confidence in ministers ' handling of the coronavirus pandemic .
But No 10 said it was proceeding with caution to secure a safe recovery .
It comes as the government is to outline further details of its quarantine plans later .
Home Secretary Priti Patel is to tell MPs that the proposals - which have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs - are necessary to avoid the risk of another wave of coronavirus infections .
From Monday , the majority of those arriving in the UK will be told to self-isolate for 14 days .
But Portugal 's foreign minister has told the BBC that his government is talking to Home Office officials about a so-called `` air bridge '' agreement so that tourists returning from his country can avoid the restrictions .
Health minister Edward Argar said he hopes people will be able to go on holiday this year but cautioned `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particular date on when that might happen '' .
`` We will have to be guided by how the disease behaves , controlling any risk of a second wave and controlling the disease , '' he told BBC Breakfast .
• What are the UK travel quarantine rules ?
• Government criticised over use of testing data In the Guardian , the Labour leader also said there was a growing concern that Mr Johnson was now `` winging it '' over moves to reopen schools and relax shielding advice .
Echoing Sir Keir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` We have seen an exit from the lockdown with no strategy to make it work . ''
The Labour MP said the easing of lockdown restrictions was `` the time of maximum danger '' and that the party was calling for an `` effective '' test , trace and isolate strategy , `` fast access to testing '' and `` clear '' public messaging .
Mr Johnson and Sir Keir will later go head-to-head at Prime Minister 's Questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cummings row erupted .
In one of his first acts as Labour leader , Sir Keir Starmer announced he would not indulge in opposition for opposition 's sake .
This was seen as a decisive break from his own party 's recent past .
But now he wants to create more distance between the government and the opposition .
Some say they have noted a more hostile , less consensual tone towards Boris Johnson from Sir Keir .
But , in truth , Sir Keir 's stated policy of `` constructive criticism '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those two words at Prime Minister 's Questions .
And his approach today has much in common with his approach before - to put down a marker in case things go wrong .
The Labour leader is determined to stay one step ahead of the government .
So , by raising questions now over the easing of lockdown while doubts remain about the alert level and the efficacy of the track and trace system , he is positioning the party to distance itself further from the government 's approach if the R @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jeremy Hunt has stressed the importance of a `` functioning '' test and trace system , which he suggested could be used in place of quarantine measures .
Speaking on the Today programme , Mr Hunt highlighted comments by Professor John Newton , the national testing co-ordinator , who said contact tracing for travellers arriving in the UK could be used instead of quarantine rules .
`` If you know that you are going to track down anyone that comes from abroad and isolate them really quickly , then you do n't need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stops people going on holiday or doing business trips , '' Mr Hunt , the chairman of the Commons Health and Social Care Committee , said .
He added that turning around coronavirus test results within 24 hours was `` absolutely essential '' for an effective test and trace system .
He express concerned over the time it is taking for tests results to come back , following Sage - the group of scientists advising government - documents that said keeping the R number below one would require 80 % of contacts to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If the test results themselves take 48 hours to come back , that is going to be impossible , '' he said .
Sir Keir said while Labour wanted to see society re-open and businesses begin to get back on their feet , he had deep misgivings about the approach in England , compared with that in Wales and Scotland .
He said children had returned to schools before the system for identifying new cases and tracing their contacts was fully up and running .
He also complained that public health officials had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to shielding advice for the most vulnerable - which was announced a month before a review had been due to take place .
`` After a week or more of mismanagement , I 'm deeply concerned the government has made a difficult situation 10 times worse , '' he said .
`` We 've called for an exit strategy .
What we appear to have got is an exit without a strategy . ''
He warned that trust in the government had been `` burnt '' at a crucial time by the controversy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cummings and whether he broke the lockdown rules .
`` Like many people across the country , there is a growing concern the government is now winging it , '' Sir Keir said .
`` At precisely the time when there should have been maximum trust in the government , confidence has collapsed .
`` I am putting the prime minister on notice that he has got to get a grip and restore public confidence in the government 's handling of the epidemic .
`` If we see a sharp rise in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a swathe of local lockdowns , responsibility for that falls squarely at the door of No 10 . ''
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
A Downing Street spokesman said its focus was on `` helping the country recover safely from coronavirus and restoring the livelihoods of millions of people across the country '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the future and not the past , as we continue to fight this virus while taking cautious steps to ease restrictions .
The PM looks forward to hearing any concrete proposals Labour has to offer . ''
The BBC understands the PM has established two new cabinet committees to support the next phase of the Covid response - one overseeing the strategy for the recovery and the other the delivery of policy .
• HOSPITAL SPECIAL : The human stories behind the headlines • JESSE LINGARD 'S HOME WORKOUT : Can you @ @ @

"If you know that you are going to track down anyone that comes from abroad and isolate them really quickly, then you don't need to have a blanket quarantine measure that stops people going on holiday or doing business trips," Mr Hunt, the chairman of the Commons Health and Social Care Committee, said.


bbcuk--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Scottish care home deaths overtake hospital deaths

More people have now died with coronavirus in Scotland 's care homes than in the country 's hospitals .
The National Records of Scotland ( NRS ) said there have been a total of 1,818 deaths linked to the virus in care homes since the outbreak began .
That is three more than than the 1,815 deaths that have been recorded in hospitals .
The figures also showed the total number of people dying with the virus has fallen for a fifth week in a row .
NRS said there had been 131 deaths involving Covid-19 between 25 and 31 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the previous week .
This was the lowest weekly number of deaths since the end of March , and brings the total number of people to have died to 3,911 .
The number of people dying in care homes has also been falling in recent weeks , with the 68 deaths that were recorded last week being 56 fewer than the previous week .
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly .
Please refresh the page for the fullest version .
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He added: "It would take around 7,000 tests a day to ensure all care home staff were covered - but the SNP can't even get close to that figure on the whole, let alone just for these workers.


bbcuk--2020-06-03--Disruption to schools could continue to November, MPs told

The partial closure of schools in England could continue into the autumn and into November , the Commons education committee has been told .
Primary schools opened more widely to several year groups in some areas this week , 10 weeks after they were closed as part of Covid-19 lockdown measures .
Secondaries remain shut and around eight million pupils are out of school .
David Laws , chair of education charity EPI , said assumptions all pupils will return in September may be wrong .
The committee was hearing evidence on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , also a former education minister , said : `` There 's a temptation to think we are in a kind of home learning now and hopefully all back in September .
Sadly we may end up with considerable disruption to school in September , October and November . ''
He urged ministers to make plans and give guidance to schools for `` a situation where there may be some home learning for a lot of pupils for a very long time '' .
Anne Longfield , the Children 's Commissioner for England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently out of school , despite limited opening of primary schools this week .
She said the sheer scale of children not reaching their potential because of this lockdown would be immense .
`` That could be eight million children all of whom could well be out of school for six months . ''
And she warned as more of society and many parents go back to work , there would be a fall-off in the numbers of those engaging in learning from home .
`` As things become more interesting , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kids could spend two and half months browsing in Primark and not going to school . ''
She added that head teachers had told her they were kept awake at night by fears about some children never returning to school .
The leap that children who had had a negative experience of school would have to make , in order to return to school , would be `` vast '' , she said .
The committee was told the Department for Education needed to publish its guidance on how schools would look in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ catch-up summer schools , which were backed by witnesses , needed to be set out by ministers soon , if they were to happen .
The hearing comes as a report suggested school closures could wipe out 10 years of progress in closing the achievement gap between poor and rich pupils .
Modest estimates in the government-commissioned report suggest the shutdowns could cause the gap to widen by around a third of what it is now .
This could mean poorest primary pupils , who are already nine months behind , slipping back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Endowment Foundation study said catch-up tuition would help .
The charity 's research also warned of a risk of high levels of absence after schools formally reopen and that this posed a particular risk for disadvantaged pupils .
The rapid evidence assessment drew together evidence on 11 studies from a number of countries on the impact of school closures , focussing on those which looked at learning loss over the summer holiday period .
It found the estimated impact on the gap between the poorest group of pupils , and their wealthier peers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % .
The median estimate was 36 % , although the researchers said there was high level uncertainty about this average .
The report is published days after a small proportion of the school population returned to lessons .
Although effective remote learning would limit the extent to which the gap widens , the report said there would still need to be sustained support for disadvantaged pupils to catch up .
Over the past decade , the Department for Education has focused attention and resources on closing the disadvantage gap .
It has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of primary school to 9.2 months in 2019 .
Sir Peter Lampl , chairman of the EEF , said : `` School closures are likely to have a devastating impact on the poorest children and young people .
The attainment gap widens when children are not in school .
`` There is strong evidence that high quality tuition is a cost-effective way to enable pupils to catch up . ''
His organisation has teamed up with a number of other organisations to run a trial in which 1,600 disadvantaged pupils @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group tuition .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said being in school was vital for children 's wellbeing .
He added : `` This innovative online tuition pilot is an important part of our plans to put support in place to ensure young people do n't fall behind as a result of coronavirus , particularly those facing disadvantages . ''
Russell Hobby , head of teacher training charity Teach First , described the potential loss as `` tragic '' .
This should start with intensive catch-up provision when possible , he said , adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those pupils who have suffered the most .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• IMPACT : What the virus does to the body • RECOVERY : How long does it take ?
• LOCKDOWN : How can we lift restrictions ?
• ENDGAME : How do we get out of this mess ?

Mr Laws, also a former education minister, said: "There's a temptation to think we are in a kind of home learning now and hopefully all back in September. Sadly we may end up with considerable disruption to school in September, October and November."


bbcuk--2020-06-03--Coronavirus contact tracer 'paid to watch Netflix'

A contact tracer working on the NHS Test and Trace coronavirus scheme says she has not been asked to speak to anyone since beginning work last week .
The clinician told the BBC 's Victoria Derbyshire she had worked 38 hours but had yet to make a single phone call and spent the time watching Netflix .
`` It 's frustrating to know that I 'm sat idle when there 's people that need contacting , '' they said .
The government said this does not reflect the amount of work under way .
`` Becky '' spoke to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said she has watched nearly three series of comedy The Good Place , despite being available to help isolate people .
`` I 'm yet to make a single phone call or be assigned a case , '' the nurse said .
`` I 've had no contact from anyone .
I 've had no contact from supervisors .
I 've literally been on the system , refreshed the system , and entertained myself during that watching Netflix .
`` I 've just watched it alongside going back to the system , refreshing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in because it 's timed out .
I have yet to have contact with anybody regarding contact tracing . ''
• What if NHS coronavirus tracers contact me ?
• What are the self-isolation rules ?
• My new skill as a contact tracer It came as Channel 4 News reported data showing 4,456 confirmed Covid-19 cases were reported to the Test and Trace scheme between 28 May , when it launched , and 31 May .
The data - described by the government as `` outdated '' - showed those confirmed cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 reported just 1,749 of these have been contacted by tracers .
Latest daily figures showed 1,613 people tested positive for coronavirus up to 09:00 BST on Tuesday .
Anthony Costello is a professor of global health at University College London who formerly worked at the World Health Organization ( WHO ) .
He told Victoria Derbyshire the Test and Trace system was unlikely to be picking up more than 30 % of coronavirus cases and may be missing at least two-thirds of contacts .
`` That 's why your nurse has not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fit for purpose yet .
The worrying thing is can it ever be fit for purpose ?
Why was it set up like this ?
You need speed and you need trust , '' he said .
He added that the system should instead revolve around local GPs and that the current system risked giving people a false sense of security .
The NHS Test and Trace scheme in England is intended to map a person 's networks and close contacts once they have received a positive coronavirus diagnosis .
It is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company Serco and is led by the chair of NHS Improvement and former TalkTalk chief executive Baroness Dido Harding .
One NHS job advert for a clinical contact tracer stated the role paid up to £27.15 per hour and described suitable applicants as nurses , dentists or vets , among others .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
Other non-clinical and administrative roles on the scheme are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Scotland 's system is called NHS Test and Protect while in Wales it is `` test , trace , protect '' .
Northern Ireland also has its own system .
Becky - who said nursing was a vocation - described her experience with Test and Trace as `` frustrating '' .
`` I think it 's appalling , I think it 's dishonest , '' she said .
`` We 're trying to build a very large system that 's trying to keep people in England safe and try and prevent a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's complex and I understand there 's going to be challenges . ''
`` It 's not ready yet .
Hold fire .
The released aspects of lockdown - which without track and trace - are not safe to do so , '' Becky added .
`` Not having a system up and running is obviously frustrating but it 's about people 's lives . ''
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said : `` The new NHS Test and Trace service is up and running and will help save lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge amount of work already under way .
`` Anyone in this country can book a test and we have over 25,000 contact tracers in place to undertake this vital work .
`` All staff have been trained and are fully supported in their work following procedures designed by public health experts . ''
• HOSPITAL SPECIAL : The human stories behind the headlines • JESSE LINGARD 'S HOME WORKOUT : Can you keep up ?

"That's why your nurse has not had any calls. It is not fit for purpose yet. The worrying thing is can it ever be fit for purpose? Why was it set up like this? You need speed and you need trust," he said.


bbcuk--2020-06-02--Coronavirus: Ibuprofen tested as a treatment

Scientists are running a trial to see if ibuprofen can help hospital patients who are sick with coronavirus .
The team from London 's Guy 's and St Thomas ' hospital and King 's College believe the drug , which is an anti-inflammatory as well as a painkiller , could treat breathing difficulties .
They hope the low-cost treatment can keep patients off ventilators .
In the trial , called Liberate , half of the patients will receive ibuprofen in addition to usual care .
The trial will use a special formulation of ibuprofen rather than the regular tablets that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already take this lipid capsule form of the drug for conditions like arthritis .
Studies in animals suggest it might treat acute respiratory distress syndrome - one of the complications of severe coronavirus .
Prof Mitul Mehta , one of the team at King 's College London , said : `` We need to do a trial to show that the evidence actually matches what we expect to happen . ''
Early in the pandemic there were some concerns that ibuprofen might be bad for people to take , should they have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heightened when France 's health minister Oliver Veran said that taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , such as ibuprofen , could aggravate the infection and advised patients to take paracetamol instead .
A review by the Commission on Human Medicines quickly concluded that , like paracetamol , it was safe to take for coronavirus symptoms .
Both can bring a temperature down and help with flu-like symptoms .
For mild coronavirus symptoms , the NHS advises people try paracetamol first , as it has fewer side-effects than ibuprofen and is the safer choice for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ibuprofen if you have a stomach ulcer , for example .
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?

For mild coronavirus symptoms, the NHS advises people try paracetamol first, as it has fewer side-effects than ibuprofen and is the safer choice for most people. You should not take ibuprofen if you have a stomach ulcer, for example.


bbcuk--2020-06-03--UK to change immigration rules for Hong Kong citizens if China passes law

Britain will change its immigration rules and offer millions of people in Hong Kong `` a route to citizenship '' if China imposes new security laws , Boris Johnson has said .
Writing in the Times , Mr Johnson said the UK would `` have no choice '' but to uphold its ties with the territory .
China is facing mounting criticism over its planned law .
Many people in Hong Kong fear it could end their unique freedoms , which the rest of China does not have .
• China 's new law : Why is Hong Kong worried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with allies including the US and Australia about what to do if China imposes the new law - which would make it a crime to undermine Beijing 's authority - and people start fleeing Hong Kong .
In the Times on Wednesday , the prime minister confirmed that if China passes the law , people in Hong Kong who hold British National ( Overseas ) ( BNO ) passports will be allowed to come to the UK for 12 months without a visa .
Currently they are allowed to come for six months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently already have a BNO passport , but 2.6 million others are also eligible .
Passport-holders would also be given further immigration rights , including the right to work .
This `` could place them on a route to citizenship , '' Mr Johnson said .
• More about the BNO passport and what could change 'Britain will not walk away' The prime minister added that the immigration changes `` would amount to one of the biggest changes in our visa system in British history '' .
`` If it proves necessary , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and take it willingly .
`` Many people in Hong Kong fear their way of life , which China pledged to uphold , is under threat .
`` If China proceeds to justify their fears , then Britain could not in good conscience shrug our shoulders and walk away ; instead we will honour our obligations and provide an alternative . ''
Hong Kong is a former British colony .
It was handed back to China in 1997 .
As part of an agreement signed at the time , it enjoys some freedoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these are set out in a mini-constitution called the Basic Law .
BNO passports were granted to all Hong Kong citizens born before the Chinese handover in 1997 and while they allow the holder some protection from the UK foreign service they do not currently give the right to live or work in Britain .
• The background you need on Hong Kong 's protests There has been widespread international criticism of China 's proposed law and the UK government 's announcement marks a step up in Britain 's opposition to it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the UK was in talks with countries in the Five Eyes alliance about how to handle a potential `` exodus '' of people from the area .
He urged China to reconsider its plans which , he said , would threaten Hong Kong 's autonomy and prosperity .
Senior MPs from Britain , Canada , Australia and New Zealand have urged the United Nations to appoint a special envoy to Hong Kong to monitor how the new law affects human rights .
Earlier this week , seven former UK foreign secretaries urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to co-ordinate a response .

In the Times on Wednesday, the prime minister confirmed that if China passes the law, people in Hong Kong who hold British National (Overseas) (BNO) passports will be allowed to come to the UK for 12 months without a visa. Currently they are allowed to come for six months.


bbcuk--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: Students might have to stay in 'protective bubble'

Students might have to stay in a `` protective bubble '' of the same small group , when the UK 's university campuses reopen in the autumn .
University leaders suggested students would live and study with the same group to minimise mixing .
They were setting out safety measures for a socially-distanced student life - including a virtual freshers ' week .
A survey suggested 71 % of students would prefer to start the term later , if they got more in-person teaching .
University campuses have been closed since the coronavirus lockdown , with teaching switching online , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been setting out how they might bring students back for the autumn term .
To prevent the risk of infection , the Universities UK briefing suggested students could be kept in small groups , sharing accommodation with people taking the same course , using the `` protective bubble '' approach used in primary schools in England .
• 'University will definitely not be the same' • ' A very , very different university experience' • Watchdog says students must be told how they will be taught Liz Barnes , vice-chancellor of Staffordshire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the idea of protective bubbles with other universities - with her university expecting to have eight people per bubble .
By housing students in groups taking the same subjects , with timetables that bring them on campus at the same time , it would minimise contact with other students .
`` The more that we can keep them into a small group of regular interaction the better in current circumstances , '' said Prof Barnes .
Students could see others outside , but there would be controls on who could go inside accommodation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accommodation would have a big reduction in capacity , so that social distancing could be possible and facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms could be safely shared .
If lectures are delivered online , there would also be fewer people on campus .
What about the social life starting university ?
The first week of university life - or freshers ' week - is where students get a chance to socialise together .
But University of Nottingham vice-chancellor , Shearer West , said it might not be `` all singing , all dancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the case literally as well as metaphorically , if welcome events are online or restricted to small numbers .
`` We 're certainly planning to have people join things and get involved in societies , but we may just have to run freshers ' fair in a different kind of way , '' said Prof West .
These could be `` virtual events , '' said Universities UK president Julia Buckingham .
But in a way that `` we can guarantee students have social interaction with one another '' .
Is it going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely a bit of both .
The term being used is `` blended '' , where students get a mix of online lectures and then in-person teaching for smaller groups .
But individual students will want to know the balance for their chosen subject - how much will they be studying on campus and how much by distance learning ?
Prof Buckingham , vice-chancellor of Brunel University , said she wanted to `` dispel the image '' that learning online was not the same quality .
And even if courses are entirely online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ universities in England can charge full tuition fees .
How about starting term later ?
According to a survey from the University and College Union , 71 % of students would prefer to push back the start of term , if it meant they had more in-person and less online teaching .
The survey of 516 people applying to university this year also found 23 % were worried that their preferred university could go bust because of the coronavirus outbreak .
Prof Buckingham suggested there would be flexibility for overseas students to start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to travel for the autumn .
Some students might want to defer a year entirely to get a better experience .
But with the prospect of no travel , few jobs and a socially-distanced social life , it 's also been described as being the world 's worst gap year .
What should students know before they decide about offers ?
`` Students need clarity as to what they can expect from the next academic year in order for them to make informed choices , '' says the National Union of Students .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of university is 18 June - and the higher education watchdog , the Office for Students , says applicants have to be told with `` absolute clarity '' how they will be taught .
And if a university subsequently changes what it offers then students should be released from their choices .
While the guidance from Universities UK sets out ideas and broad principles , students will want to know about their individual options .
Will accommodation be available ?
How many hours of in-person teaching will there be ?
What campus facilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week be a laptop in their bedroom ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?

Coronavirus: Students might have to stay in 'protective bubble' Published 3 June 2020
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Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Lectures might have to shift from lecture halls to online lessons
Students might have to stay in a "protective bubble" of the same small group, when the UK's university campuses reopen in the autumn.
University leaders suggested students would live and study with the same group to minimise mixing.
They were setting out safety measures for a socially-distanced student life - including a virtual freshers' week.
A survey suggested 71% of students would prefer to start the term later, if they got more in-person teaching.
University campuses have been closed since the coronavirus lockdown, with teaching switching online, and their representative body, Universities UK has been setting out how they might bring students back for the autumn term.
How might campuses stay safe?
To prevent the risk of infection, the Universities UK briefing suggested students could be kept in small groups, sharing accommodation with people taking the same course, using the "protective bubble" approach used in primary schools in England.
Liz Barnes, vice-chancellor of Staffordshire University, said she had been discussing the idea of protective bubbles with other universities - with her university expecting to have eight people per bubble.
By housing students in groups taking the same subjects, with timetables that bring them on campus at the same time, it would minimise contact with other students.
"The more that we can keep them into a small group of regular interaction the better in current circumstances," said Prof Barnes.
Image source, Alamy Image caption, Applicants to university have to be told how they will be taught
Students could see others outside, but there would be controls on who could go inside accommodation.
This would also assume that university accommodation would have a big reduction in capacity, so that social distancing could be possible and facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms could be safely shared.
If lectures are delivered online, there would also be fewer people on campus.
What about the social life starting university?
The first week of university life - or freshers' week - is where students get a chance to socialise together. But University of Nottingham vice-chancellor, Shearer West, said it might not be "all singing, all dancing" this year.
This could be the case literally as well as metaphorically, if welcome events are online or restricted to small numbers.
"We're certainly planning to have people join things and get involved in societies, but we may just have to run freshers' fair in a different kind of way," said Prof West.
These could be "virtual events," said Universities UK president Julia Buckingham. But in a way that "we can guarantee students have social interaction with one another".
Is it going to be online or in-person?
Most likely a bit of both. The term being used is "blended", where students get a mix of online lectures and then in-person teaching for smaller groups. But individual students will want to know the balance for their chosen subject - how much will they be studying on campus and how much by distance learning?
Image source, Alamy Image caption, Will the freshers' week parties be online this year?
Prof Buckingham, vice-chancellor of Brunel University, said she wanted to "dispel the image" that learning online was not the same quality.
And even if courses are entirely online, Universities Minister Michelle Donelan has said universities in England can charge full tuition fees.
How about starting term later?
According to a survey from the University and College Union, 71% of students would prefer to push back the start of term, if it meant they had more in-person and less online teaching.
The survey of 516 people applying to university this year also found 23% were worried that their preferred university could go bust because of the coronavirus outbreak.
Prof Buckingham suggested there would be flexibility for overseas students to start in January, if they were unable to travel for the autumn.
Some students might want to defer a year entirely to get a better experience. But with the prospect of no travel, few jobs and a socially-distanced social life, it's also been described as being the world's worst gap year.
What should students know before they decide about offers?
"Students need clarity as to what they can expect from the next academic year in order for them to make informed choices," says the National Union of Students.
The deadline for making a firm choice of university is 18 June - and the higher education watchdog, the Office for Students, says applicants have to be told with "absolute clarity" how they will be taught. And if a university subsequently changes what it offers then students should be released from their choices.


bbcuk--2020-06-03--Coronavirus: UK holidaymakers ‘welcome’ in Portugal

Portugal 's foreign minister has said anyone in the UK thinking of going to Portugal this summer will be `` most welcome '' amid coronavirus .
Augusto Santos Silva said he hoped an air bridge between the UK and Portugal could be secured by the end of June .
The UK is set to give more details of its plan to force arrivals into quarantine for 14 days later .
UK Home Secretary Priti Patel will say air bridges to countries with low virus infection rates are possible in future .
This would mean that people arriving from certain places @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that will only apply to countries with low Covid-19 infection rates , she is expected to tell MPs .
She will also say that the planned quarantine for arrivals is necessary `` to prevent a second wave of the virus '' .
Meanwhile , Heathrow boss John Holland-Kaye has told BBC Breakfast that travellers will have to fill out details of where they will be staying to quarantine , when they book their flight .
He said there will then be `` spot checks '' within the immigration area , where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have filled out their form .
`` All of the form-filling will take place before you get on a plane , and will be done online .
The government will be able to check information before people get onto a plane , '' he said .
Some countries have already started to ease travel restrictions .
The German foreign minister Heiko Maas said the country would lift a travel ban for EU countries , as well as the UK and a handful of others - as long as they do not have large-scale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will advise against travel to Britain for as long as the UK government demands a 14-day quarantine for new arrivals .
Portugal 's Mr Santos Silva told the BBC that an agreement between the UK and Portugal could be in place by the end of June , meaning that holidaymakers returning to the UK from Portugal would escape the quarantine rules .
He said any travel quarantine `` was an enemy of tourism '' , but that he respected the UK government 's decision to enforce one on almost all arrivals to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Silva said `` rules '' would ensure that people would be able to holiday safely .
The minister suggested that nightlife in Portuguese resorts this summer would be very limited and people would not be allowed to congregate in groups at night .
He said hotels and apartments which comply with standards set by the tourism board would be labelled as `` clean and safe '' .
• What are the UK travel quarantine rules ?
• No early return for UK tourists , says Spain Portugal 's foreign minister confirmed talks on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But he insisted that Portugal would not impose any type of quarantine for people arriving in his country .
Instead , he said Portugal would rely on temperature checks at airports and that Portugal was , in coordination with other EU countries , considering carrying out `` random testing '' on passengers .
Mr Santos Silva said tourists would be warned how full beaches are , so that they could avoid crowded spots .
UK aviation bosses hope that a large number of air bridge agreements will be in place by 29 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set to be reviewed .
More tourists from the UK head to the Algarve each summer than from any other country .
But Spain , another country whose tourism sector relies heavily on British holidaymakers , is taking a different approach .
The Spanish government has said it will only allow UK tourists in this summer if the infection rate in the UK falls more significantly .
The UK travel quarantine will apply to people arriving from any country , apart from the Republic of Ireland , and will also apply to UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-isolate in a private residence for two weeks .
The government says people `` could be contacted regularly during this period to ensure compliance '' .
People who break the rules could be fined £1,000 .
UK travel companies say the travel quarantine already means people are not booking holidays .
They warn that more businesses in the sector now face financial ruin .
The measure will be reviewed every three weeks .
When deciding whether to keep the quarantine in place , the government will consider several factors .
They include : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with more relaxed border arrangements have seen imported cases • the effectiveness of testing methods at minimising the risk of new cases of the virus entering the country .
A growing list of Conservative MPs have spoken out against the blanket travel quarantine .
However , a YouGov poll of 1,565 adults in Great Britain suggests that there is public support .
63 % of those surveyed thought people should be quarantined as per the government 's plan .
About one quarter thought that the quarantine should only apply to people arriving from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus cases '' .
Only 4 % thought that there should be no quarantine at all .
Labour has questioned why a travel quarantine was not introduced some weeks ago .
New figures show that between the beginning of January and the end of April , 14,225 flights arrived into UK airports .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go on holiday this year ?
How will you deal with the quarantine period ?
Share your experiences 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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However, that will only apply to countries with low Covid-19 infection rates, she is expected to tell MPs. She will also say that the planned quarantine for arrivals is necessary "to prevent a second wave of the virus".