bbcuk--2020-03-03--Thousands of staff needed to hit childcare expansion deadline

A major recruitment drive is needed to ensure an expansion of funded nursery places is to hit its summer deadline , a spending watchdog has warned .
The national entitlement to free childcare will increase from 600 to 1,140 hours in August .
Audit Scotland said more than 4,000 nursery staff would need to be recruited and half the building work was not yet complete .
The Scottish government said it was confident the deadline would be met .
• Campaigners say half-day nursery places are 'not wanted' The expansion of free childcare is part of a `` landmark '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local authorities .
Councils , which have been given £567m to deliver the nursery pledge , have recruited the equivalent of 4,310 full-time staff - approximately half the number required .
In a review of progress , Audit Scotland said the plans were on track - but a great deal of work would need to be done over the summer months .
Caroline Gardner , Auditor General for Scotland , said : `` The Scottish government and councils have worked well together to increase early learning and childcare hours , and we 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be evaluated .
`` But the timeline remains tight and there are big risks around infrastructure and workforce . ''
• Parents in Scotland urged to apply for new free childcare plan A phasing system was implemented last year giving approximately 50,000 children 1,140 hours of funded childcare ahead of the national rollout .
The Scottish government said by the end of the expansion , more than 900 nurseries will have been built , extended or refurbished since 2018 .
Children 's Minister Maree Todd said : `` We are committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have contingency plans in place for all critical projects due to complete this summer , so we can be confident that the places will be there to deliver the expansion for Scotland 's children .
`` The expansion also opens up more opportunities for playgroups , private and third sector nurseries , and childminders to be involved in delivering funded hours . ''
The Scottish Conservative education spokesman Jamie Green said that necessary work had been `` left to the last minute '' .
He added : `` The first minister promised the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when it came to free childcare .
They will deliver a very damning verdict on her SNP government if this promise is n't up-and-running on time .
`` And what ministers seem to have forgotten through all of this is that good childcare is n't just about the number of hours on offer , it 's the flexibility within that . ''
In 2017 the Scottish government announced it would almost double its funded childcare as part of a plan to reduce health , education and employment inequalities later in life .
Audit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk '' that local authorities would not be able to fund the expansion .
However , the government and Cosla reached an agreement two months later .
It set out plans to spend £990m on day-to-day funding for the scheme by 2021 - £150m more than the government 's previous estimate .
Opposition politicians had previously warned of a £160m `` black hole '' in the funding proposals .
Funding will rise annually from £33m this financial year to £567m by 2021/22 , totalling £1.5bn over five years .
The National Day Nurseries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year which found that 71 % of employers struggled to recruit staff at practitioner level - and that Scotland 's nursery staff turnover rate was 29 % , higher than the UK average .
It recommended the scheme be reviewed annually to ensure nurseries could cover the cost of the new offer as well as keeping staff .

Children's Minister Maree Todd said: "We are committed to delivering the roll-out from August and councils have contingency plans in place for all critical projects due to complete this summer, so we can be confident that the places will be there to deliver the expansion for Scotland's children.


bbcuk--2020-03-02--Coronavirus: Big increase in tests carried out in Northern Ireland

More than 50 people have been tested for coronavirus in Northern Ireland since Friday , bringing the total to 150 - with one person testing positive .
Health Minister Robins Swann told the assembly there had been 57 tests since Friday .
He said `` detailed plans '' were in place in case of the virus becoming a pandemic .
Stormont has contributed to the UK-wide virus action plan , due to be published on Tuesday .
The one confirmed case in Northern Ireland is a woman who had returned from northern Italy , who has received `` specialist medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were no implications locally after a case was confirmed in Dublin last Thursday .
The National Public Health Emergency Team in the Republic of Ireland is due to meet on Tuesday to discuss further steps .
Meanwhile about 8,000 staff members at Google in the Republic of Ireland will work from home on Tuesday , after a worker reported flu-like symptoms .
It is not believed those are coronavirus-related , but the firm is taking the opportunity to test its preparedness for a scenario where the virus escalates .
`` We continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and safety of our workforce , and as part of that effort we have asked our Dublin teams to work from home tomorrow , '' a Google spokesperson said .
Mr Swann said people who had travelled between Dublin and Belfast using public transport `` need not be concerned '' .
He said wider UK action plan `` sets out what the UK as a whole has already done and plan to do further '' .
Emergency departments in Northern Ireland are preparing drive-through testing facilities in addition to the one already operating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believed the rest will be functional within the next fortnight , and BBC News NI understands Belfast 's provisions are set to be ready by the end of this week .
Updated numbers on the amount of tests being carried out are due to be published later in the week .
`` I will continue to take part in the weekly Cobra ministerial [ meeting ] to ensure our joined-up approach to tackling this disease continues , '' Mr Swann said .
The assembly heard health authorities on both sides of the border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where possible both jurisdictions can make the best use of our collective resources '' .
The First and Deputy First Ministers Arlene Foster and Michelle O'Neill , along with Mr Swann and Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride , took part in an emergency Cobra meeting about the virus on Monday .
`` We have been planning for the first case in Northern Ireland and we have robust infection control measures in place which have enabled us to respond immediately , '' said Dr McBride .
`` The risk to individuals in Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The Republic of Ireland 's Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan confirmed the department of health is looking at several options in its attempts to contain the virus .
The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet tomorrow to discuss potential alterations to the advice it might give .
`` We 're giving some consideration to the issue of mass gatherings , ongoing consideration to our public health guidance and to the question of community testing and the possibility of moving the burden of community testing from the hospital environment out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Holohan .
`` At this point , we 're not expecting restrictions , we still remain in a containment phase in this country , one case has been identified .
`` The measures that have been put in place both in terms of the clinical response to that case and the public health response in that case give us confidence that we should be in a position to prevent onward transmission . ''
Northern Ireland tourists who were staying at a hotel in Tenerife which was locked down after a visiting Italian doctor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ International Airport on Monday night .
They were previously not allowed to leave the H10 Costa Adeje Palace Hotel .
They flew Manchester first to drop off tourists from other parts of the UK before travelling onwards to Belfast .
Meanwhile Ryanair has cancelled some flights - mainly to and from to Italy - as a result of decreased demand following the spread of coronavirus .
Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald has also postponed party meetings in Cavan and Galway due the coronavirus .
A case of the virus was confirmed at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the decision to stay at home with them on Monday .
The school was closed for 14 days as part of the Republic 's infection-control measures .
Although the name of the school has not been officially released , parents at Scoil Chaitríona in Glasnevin confirmed on social media it was their school .
RTÉ reported that at a meeting on Monday night at a venue away from the school , parents and guardians were assured that the school would be professionally cleaned before it reopened What do I need to know about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SYMPTOMS ?
A simple guide • WAYS TO PREVENT CATCHING IT : How to wash your hands • WHERE ARE WE WITH A VACCINE ?
Progress so far • A VISUAL GUIDE TO THE OUTBREAK : Virus maps and charts • WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR MY HOLIDAY ?
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bbcuk--2020-03-03--Parc Young Offenders Institution 'best in England and Wales'

A young offenders institution near Bridgend is `` easily the best performing '' in England and Wales , the chief inspector of prisons has said .
In an unusually positive report , Peter Clarke praised the amount of activities provided for 15 to 18-year-olds in Parc .
But its governor said they struggled to get mental health services for inmates from the local health board .
Cwm Taf Morgannwg health board said it continued to review the service needed .
Overall the annual inspection of Parc Young Offenders Institution reported `` overwhelmingly positive findings '' , with care and purposeful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good '' , and safety and resettlement deemed `` reasonably good '' .
Mr Clarke said any negative findings should not detract from the good work being done .
However he found mental health services were not in line with national standards .
Governor Janet Wallsgrove said mental health services needed a lot more support and funding as they were an `` opportunity to prevent people committing crime '' on release .
A majority of the boys there have been convicted of murder , manslaughter , high-end violent offences , grievous bodily harm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long terms '' , according to Jason Evans , who manages the young person 's unit .
`` It 's not unusual these days for a person under 18 to be doing 20-plus years - that was unheard of probably 10 years ago , '' he said .
`` So you 're taking that top 2 % in the country of the most violent young people we have ... co-located with other boys with similar traits .
`` Gang culture outside - belonging - is a real big thing for these boys so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a different way to belong . ''
• Assaults on staff had fallen by 38 % • Use of force had increased by 17 % • Assaults on children were down 15 % and lower than similar prisons • Fights between children had risen 92 % and were more frequent than similar prisons .
• How dangerous are prisons in England and Wales ?
Most children spend more than 10 hours out of their cell every day .
Mr Evans explained the activities offered helped the boys learn how to work with others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as an increase in conflict .
`` The more time people spend together [ the more ] that can create some conflict and in custody violence can be an issue - it is an issue for us in Parc - but we take a view the only way we can reach people is to work with them . ''
'Too much to lose' Just under a third of the young inmates are from Wales .
Seventeen-year-old `` Callum '' has been at Parc for a few months and is due out later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` well '' on the outside , but he has now achieved qualifications including a maths GCSE .
`` In carpentry ...
I made a plaque for my nan and grandad .
Now I 'm in the middle of making some woodwork for my dad and his girlfriend , '' he said .
`` I 'm happy with myself and [ it made me feel ] emotional really , knowing they liked it and it took me a lot of time to make ... '' I 've too much to lose than come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other boys , he said : `` If you 're nice to them they 'll be nice to you , respect them - they respect you . ''
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said the health needs of those in prison were complex .
`` A new mental health pathway was introduced in 2018 , with a referral system to assist with prioritising those most in need , '' a spokeswoman said .
A Welsh Government spokesman said health boards continued to work with the prison service in Wales to improve health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service said the first meeting of a joint board with Public Health Wales and local health boards , set up to discuss any issues , was taking place this month .

"The more time people spend together [the more] that can create some conflict and in custody violence can be an issue - it is an issue for us in Parc - but we take a view the only way we can reach people is to work with them."


bbcuk--2020-03-02--Topshop death: Kaden Reddick 'was swinging on queue barrier'

A 10-year-old boy who was fatally injured in a Topshop store was swinging on a barrier when it fell on his head , an inquest jury has heard .
Kaden Reddick , from Reading , died after the accident at the town 's Oracle Centre on 13 February 2017 .
Jurors at Reading Town Hall were told the inquest would focus on the barrier 's design and maintenance .
Kaden 's mother , Lisa Mallet , said her son 's death had `` left a massive hole in our lives '' .
Speaking at the inquest , she described hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which was being used as a queue divider - on top of Kaden .
She said that at first she thought he was quiet , before realising he was not moving .
In an earlier tribute , Ms Mallet described her son as a `` cheeky , sweet and generous boy '' .
Student Niamh Gillespie told the inquest she was standing behind Kaden and his mother and sister as they queued for the till .
She said the second time he tried to swing on the barrier she saw his feet slip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ separate incidents involving similar barriers at other stores in Glasgow and Manchester will also be looked at by jurors .

She said the second time he tried to swing on the barrier she saw his feet slip and it fall on him.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Coronavirus: Up to fifth of UK workers 'off sick at same time'

Up to a fifth of the workforce may be off sick during the peak of a coronavirus epidemic in the UK , the government says in its latest plans .
Police may need to focus on only responding to the most serious crimes and maintaining public order if the virus spreads .
The military could also provide support to emergency services if needed .
Other possible measures include school closures , reducing large-scale gatherings and working from home .
Some non-urgent hospital care may be delayed to focus on treating coronavirus patients , while recently retired doctors and nurses may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a conference , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the government was committed to doing `` everything possible '' to `` prepare for all eventualities '' and its priority was keeping the country safe , as the number of cases in the UK rose to 39 .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• HOW IS THE UK PLANNING FOR AN OUTBREAK : How prepared are we ?
• WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS ?
A simple guide • WAYS TO PREVENT CATCHING IT : How to wash your hands • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to know • WHERE ARE WE WITH A VACCINE ?
Progress so far • A VISUAL GUIDE TO THE OUTBREAK : Virus maps and charts • WHAT 'S THE IMPACT ON ECONOMY ?
Carney warns of 'large ' shock While the vast majority of patients will have a mild to moderate illness , similar to seasonal flu , a minority will require hospital care and a small proportion could die , the plans warn .
There are no estimates given in the plans but they do warn of an increase in deaths , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Young children can become infected and `` suffer severe illness '' , but overall the illness is less common in the under-20s .
It is possible an outbreak could come in multiple waves , the government said .
The prime minister said he `` fully understood '' the public concern about the spread of the virus and it was `` highly likely '' the UK would see a growing number of cases .
`` That 's why keeping the country safe is the government 's overriding priority , and our plan means we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ based on the advice of our world-leading scientific experts , to prepare for all eventualities , '' Mr Johnson said .
He reiterated that the `` single most important thing '' people could do was wash their hands with soap and hot water for the length of time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice .
`` But at this stage… I want to stress that for the vast majority of the people of this country , we should be going about our business as usual , '' Mr Johnson added .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Coronavirus could peak in May , says top doctor The prime minister said schools should stay open `` if possible '' and follow advice from Public Health England .
Evidence suggested children were less likely to be infected and they were more likely to get mild symptoms , England 's chief medical officer Prof Chris Whitty added .
Closures would also bring `` a considerable burden '' , including on the NHS , as workers would need to stay at home to look after their children .
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postpone the London Marathon nor to restrict public transport .
Other measures in the plan include : • Hospital discharges could be monitored to free-up beds , with appropriate care given in people 's homes .
• Helping businesses with short-term cash flow problems , including giving them longer to pay bills .
• A `` distribution strategy '' for the UK 's stockpiles of key medicines and equipment such as protective clothing , which will cover the NHS and could extend to social care .
• All government departments are to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ battle plan stops short of predicting how many people would be infected in an epidemic in the UK .
Worst case scenario modelling suggests 80 % of people can become infected when there is a new virus like this .
But officials believe it will not be this high .
The evidence suggests just over half of people infected develop symptoms and 1 % of those infected could die .
The elderly and those with existing health conditions are the most at risk .
If there is a widespread transmission - which seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could take two or three months to peak .
The peak would last two or three weeks and around 50 % of people who become infected could become infected in those peak weeks .
There would then be a period of two or three months of declining cases , although the battle plan acknowledges there could be multiple waves .
The government is likely to use its most drastic measures at its disposal just ahead of the peak in an attempt to flatten it .
Bank of England governor Mark Carney said policymakers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through an economic shock caused by the virus that could `` prove large but will ultimately be temporary '' .
Meanwhile , Chancellor Rishi Sunak has ordered Treasury officials to work up plans to support the public health response , businesses and the economy in his Budget on 11 March .
As of Monday morning , the Department of Health said 13,525 people had been tested in the UK , of which 13,485 were negative .
Out of the positive cases , 12 people have recovered .
Globally , about 86,000 people have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 50 countries .
More than 3,000 people have died - the vast majority in China 's Hubei province , where the outbreak originated in December .
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bbcuk--2020-03-03--Coronavirus: Student from Singapore hurt in Oxford Street attack

A student from Singapore has said he was beaten up by a group of men who told him : `` I do n't want your coronavirus in my country . ''
Jonathan Mok , 23 , said he was walking down Oxford Street last Monday when he heard shouts of `` coronavirus '' .
When he confronted the four men , he said , they launched a surprise attack that left him badly hurt .
The Met Police said it was treating the attack as `` racially aggravated '' .
No arrests have been made .
University College London student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his injuries in a widely shared Facebook post , said he was attacked at about 21:15 GMT near to Tottenham Court Road station .
Describing the attack , he wrote : `` All of a sudden , the first punch was swung at my face and took me by surprise . ''
Mr Mok said his face was `` exploding with blood '' from the attack , which left him in `` daze and shock '' .
• Up to fifth of UK workers 'off sick at same time' • How is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What is coronavirus and what are the symptoms ?
• Coronavirus : What are the chances of dying ?
He said the coronavirus outbreak has been used by some as an excuse to `` further hatred for people different from them '' .
`` I just think it 's a pity to have such experiences taint the image of this beautiful city with so many nice people , '' Mr Mok added .
For more London news follow on Facebook , on Twitter , on Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel .

Up to a fifth of the workforce may be off sick during the peak of a coronavirus epidemic in the UK, the government has said in its latest plans.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Caroline Flack press petition delivered to government

A petition calling for curbs on the British media in the wake of the death of TV presenter Caroline Flack has been handed in to the government .
More than 850,000 people have signed up to support a so-called `` Caroline 's Law '' , which would make media bullying and harassment a criminal offence .
The petition was set up following Flack 's suicide last month .
It was delivered to the Department for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport ( DCMS ) on Tuesday morning .
Holby Maltby , of campaigning group 38 Degrees , said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way they harass and vilify people '' .
`` Politicians need to urgently step in and make sure there are consequences when the media bully and harass , '' she added .
At the time of her death , Love Island presenter Flack was under media scrutiny as she awaited trial for allegedly assaulting her boyfriend .
In an unpublished Instagram post written shortly before her death , the 40-year-old said : `` The truth has been taken out of my hands and used as entertainment . ''
The majority of newspapers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation ( IPSO ) under a set of rules called the Editors ' Code of Practice .
Communication watchdog Ofcom regulates television and radio broadcasters , including the BBC , and is to be given new powers over social media firms .
If you or someone you know needs support for issues about emotional distress , these organisations may be able to help .
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

"It's people up and down the country, whose lives can be completely torn apart in a moment, because of harassment, intimidation and bullying, often at very difficult times," she said as she delivered the petition.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--British Steel takeover deal agreed for Scunthorpe and Teesside plants

A Chinese firm has finally confirmed plans to invest £1.2bn in British Steel .
Jingye Group said it would save 3,200 jobs in Scunthorpe and Teesside and modernise the towns ' steelworks .
The company , which is reported to have offered £50m to buy the company , said the deal was due to be completed on 9 March .
Union Community described the takeover as `` welcome news '' but said around 400 people faced losing their jobs .
British Steel collapsed in May last year , with control passing to the government 's UK Insolvency Service .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £1.2bn over the next decade upgrading plant and machinery , marked a `` new chapter in British steelmaking '' , said chief executive Li Huiming .
`` I want to thank everyone who has been involved in making this deal happen , including British Steel employees , the Unions , and the British government , '' he said .
`` We will not misplace the trust that they have placed in us . ''
Jingye said there was no current deal on acquiring British Steel 's operations in France .
In January , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the deal because it considered British Steel 's plant in Hayange a strategic national asset .
Mr Li said : `` We remain interested in purchasing the Hayange plant , which we firmly believe would have a bright future as part of a united group , and hope to see a positive decision from the French authorities in the near future . ''
Roy Rickhuss , general secretary of Community , said he was `` pleased to hear confirmation '' of the takeover and said the union looked forward to working with Jingye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work to be done in the coming weeks , '' he said '' Not least supporting those who did not receive job offers yesterday .
We argued that everyone should be taken over into the new company and we are continuing to make the case on behalf of our members for the maximum number of employees to be transferred to the new business . ''

"Not least supporting those who did not receive job offers yesterday. We argued that everyone should be taken over into the new company and we are continuing to make the case on behalf of our members for the maximum number of employees to be transferred to the new business."


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Greta Thunberg Bristol protest: College Green grass growing back

Grass is growing back on the site of a climate change rally in Bristol that was led by Greta Thunberg , after it became a mudbath .
The green space on College Green is returning to normal days after the protest , which immediately led to complaints the area had been destroyed .
Thousands of people attended the Youth Strike for Climate protest on Friday .
It prompted a fundraiser for repairs to be carried out that has now reached nearly £14,000 .
Bristol City Council said any funds left over would be used for wildflower areas across the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she warned global leaders that `` the world is on fire '' , Swedish activist Greta led a march around the city .
It rained heavily throughout the event , leading to extensive damage to the grass on College Green .
Jon Usher , head of partnerships of Bristol-based charity Sustrans , set up a GoFundMe page after the march ended , aiming to raise £20,000 .
• What does Greta Thunberg want ?
By Sunday morning more than £9,000 had been donated .
Mr Usher , who attended the rally , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important the green is to our staff as a place to go in the spring and summertime . ''
`` I think there could also be an opportunity for additional wildflower/pollinator planting on College Green which would be a lovely legacy from Greta 's visit to Bristol . ''

Mr Usher, who attended the rally, said: "I did it knowing how important the green is to our staff as a place to go in the spring and summertime."


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Smart camera and baby monitor warning given by UK's cyber-defender

Smart cameras and baby monitors can be watched by criminals over the internet by default , security chiefs warn .
The National Cyber Security Centre ( NCSC ) is advising people to tweak the settings after buying them .
Easy-to-guess default passwords might let a hacker secretly observe a home through connected devices , it said .
The NCSC 's technical director , Dr Ian Levy , warned while the devices were `` fantastic innovations '' , they were vulnerable to cyber-attackers .
There are many examples of devices being accessed without permission .
In one , the attacker spoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be Father Christmas .
In another , a couple from Leeds had been watched thousands of times online without their knowledge .
And security researchers easily breached an adult toy that had a camera attached , in 2017 .
The new guidance for owners of smart cameras suggests three steps : • changing the default password , which is often an obvious word like `` admin '' or `` 00000 '' to an unguessable , unique one • switching off features that let you check the cameras remotely , if you do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ growing concern about the potential dangers posed by the `` internet of things '' .
As connected devices move into people 's homes and everyday lives , cyber-security risks are becoming intensely personal , with challenges in protecting people 's data and privacy .
Cameras that provide details of what is going on inside your house are a prime example .
One of the problems is the companies making these devices often try to make them cheap and fast to capture the new market - and security is often an afterthought , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The problem is leading towards not just more warnings such as this one but also new laws to mandate security standards .
Consumer group Which ?
, which has highlighted security flaws in the past in children 's toys and other smart devices , backed the new advice .
It says `` mandatory security requirements and strong enforcement '' are needed .
In January , the government announced plans to bring in a new law to require all manufacturers selling smart devices in the UK to obey new rules .
But while such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some experts believe they could go further .
Additional steps could include mandatory two-factor authentication , according to Blake Kozak , a smart home analyst with Omdia .
`` More detailed legislation will be needed to enforce best practices by brands , from the components in the devices to the security of data centres , '' he said .
The NCSC 's latest guidance also recommends disabling UPnP ( universal plug and play ) and `` port forwarding '' in the settings of your internet router – technologies often used by legitimate @ @ @ @ @ @

One of the problems is the companies making these devices often try to make them cheap and fast to capture the new market - and security is often an afterthought, if it is thought about at all.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Domestic abuse: Lie-detector tests planned for offenders

Domestic violence offenders in England and Wales could face compulsory lie-detector tests when released from prison under proposed new laws .
Those deemed at high risk of re-offending will be given regular polygraph tests to find out if they have breached release conditions .
Measures to combat `` tech abuse '' and `` financial abuse '' are also in the long-awaited Domestic Violence Bill .
Alleged abusers will also be banned from cross-examining victims in court .
Lie-detector tests - which work by measuring changes in heart rate , blood pressure , respiratory rate and sweat - are not 100 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What bills were dropped at prorogation ?
But the Home Office said it was already using the tests to monitor high-risk sex offenders and had found them to be 89 % accurate .
The government also plans to use lie-detector tests on convicted terrorists freed under licence .
• How widely are lie detectors used ?
If the Domestic Abuse Bill passes , a three-year pilot will be carried out on domestic abusers which are deemed at high-risk of causing serious harm .
If successful , the scheme will be rolled out nationwide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lie detector test three months after their release and every six months after that , according to the Home Office .
Those who fail the test will not be returned to prison - but they may be jailed if they refuse to take the test or attempt to `` trick '' it , the Home Office added .
They can also be returned to prison if the tests show `` their risk has escalated to level whereby they can no longer be safely managed in the community '' .
Information gathered from failed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police who use it to carry out further investigations .
Campaigners say action to help the nearly two million victims of domestic abuse in the UK each year , two thirds of whom are women , is long overdue .
The Conservatives first proposed tougher measures in their 2017 election manifesto but legislative progress has been slow .
The Domestic Abuse Bill was among several proposed laws which fell by the wayside last autumn after Boris Johnson suspended Parliament and MPs subsequently voted for an early general election .
The government is now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be presented with an `` enhanced '' package of measures that will `` protect victims and punish perpetrators '' of this `` horrendous '' crime .
There will also be a ban on perpetrators cross-examining their victims during family court proceedings and a legal duty on councils to find safe accommodation for domestic abuse victims and their children .
Charity Women 's Aid said this could be a `` life-saving '' move , but only if it was accompanied by guaranteed funding for specialist women 's services - including for `` marginalised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimates will cost about £173m a year .
While welcoming many of the initiatives , children 's charities warned that some families with children risked `` falling through the cracks in support '' .
`` The bill risks dividing victims into 'haves and have nots ' , '' said Barnardo 's chief executive Javed Khan .
`` Children are the hidden victims of domestic abuse , suffering trauma that can last a lifetime .
`` I 'm disappointed that while the Domestic Abuse Bill may improve access to refuges , it will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who remain in the family home . ''
The NSPCC 's senior policy officer Emily Hilton said it was `` extremely disappointing that the bill in its current form fails to protect children from the devastating impact of living with domestic abuse , leaving thousands at continued risk because the help they deserve is not in place '' .
The Home Office said the UK 's new domestic abuse commissioner , Nicole Jacobs , would consider what support the government can provide children who have been affected by domestic abuse .
The legislation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ domestic abuse in law that recognises economic abuse - when a perpetrator controls a victim 's finances - as a specific type of the crime .
It will also acknowledge the use of technology to target a victim , so-called `` tech abuse '' .
Court protection orders banning perpetrators from contacting a victim or forcing them to take part in alcohol or drug treatment programmes may also be introduced .
Support for migrant domestic abuse victims will also be reviewed , while ministers will consider what more can be done to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being used by perpetrators in court .
The majority of the measures in the Domestic Abuse Bill will apply only to England and Wales , but it will create a specific new criminal offence in Northern Ireland of controlling or coercive behaviour , already on the statute book in the rest of the UK .
Certain provisions in the bill also apply to court proceedings in Northern Ireland and Scotland .

The majority of the measures in the Domestic Abuse Bill will apply only to England and Wales, but it will create a specific new criminal offence in Northern Ireland of controlling or coercive behaviour, already on the statute book in the rest of the UK.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Priti Patel staff member received £25k payout over bullying allegations

A former aide to Priti Patel received a £25,000 payout from the government after claiming she was bullied by the then employment minister .
Legal correspondence seen by the BBC alleges the woman took an overdose of prescription medicine following the alleged incident in 2015 .
The DWP did not admit liability and the case did not come before a tribunal .
Ms Patel is facing allegations - which she denies - that she mistreated staff in her current role as home secretary .
Sir Philip Rutnam , the Home Office 's most senior official , resigned on Saturday alleging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` swearing , belittling people , making unreasonable and repeated demands '' .
He said he now intended to take legal action against the Home Office on the basis of constructive dismissal , alleging that he had been forced out of his job .
The government said on Monday , before the latest allegations , that the Cabinet Office would investigate whether Ms Patel has breached the ministerial code and to `` establish the facts '' .
Labour 's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott has now called on Ms Patel to step down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place .
She told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` We want a genuinely independent inquiry .
A lawyer-led inquiry and something that can seen to be independent .
`` I 'm afraid it would be better if she stepped down .
We are calling on her to step down whilst the inquiry goes on . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock declined to comment on the allegations of bullying against the home secretary because of the ongoing investigation and `` potential legal action '' .
But he added : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and she is determined and that is what you would expect with a home secretary .
`` She is also extremely courteous and kind . ''
Legal correspondence seen by the BBC show a junior employee at the DWP brought a formal complaint of bullying and harassment against the department , including Ms Patel , after being dismissed from her role in October 2015 .
The staff member 's grievance letter alleges she had previously attempted to kill herself after reporting similar allegations of workplace bullying concerning another individual in 2014 , before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff member also alleges she was told the decision to dismiss her a year later was not made on performance grounds but because Ms Patel did not `` like [ her ] face '' , according to comments attributed to her line manager and a colleague .
On that day in October 2015 , Ms Patel had shouted at the woman in her private office and told her to `` get lost '' and `` get out of her face '' , the correspondence alleges .
Ms Patel is described as having acted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` unprovoked level of aggression '' , in the woman 's formal grievance complaint .
Shortly after , the staff member allegedly took an overdose of prescription medication in the office and lay with her head on the desk for some time .
She was then said to have become unresponsive and her partner was called by a colleague to collect her as she was unable to walk unaided .
The woman then took a further overdose at home in what is described as an attempt to kill herself and was rushed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resuscitation , according to the documents .
• First elected as Witham MP in 2010 • Became Treasury minister in 2014 and minister for employment in 2015 • Appointed secretary of state for international development in July 2016 • Resigned from the role in 2017 after it emerged she had held undisclosed meetings with Israeli officials while on holiday • Appointed home secretary in July 2019 , a post she still holds A settlement was reached in 2017 for £25,000 after the member of staff threatened to bring a legal claim of bullying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of race and disability against the department , including Ms Patel who is directly named .
When asked last week about a complaint against Ms Patel during her time at the DWP , a source close to her said she was `` unaware of any complaint being made '' .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed Priti Patel following Sir Philip 's allegations , saying she was `` a fantastic home secretary '' .
On Monday , before the latest allegations emerged , Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove told MPs Ms Patel `` absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the prime minister had asked the Cabinet Office to carry out an investigation into whether she had breached the ministerial code and `` to establish the facts '' .
Labour MP Hilary Benn asked Mr Gove if any complaints had been made about Ms Patel 's conduct at the DWP , or in her former role as international development secretary .
Mr Gove said : `` The inquiry that is proceeding will look at all complaints that may have been made , I can not say more than that . ''
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers are subject to the ministerial code .
We do not comment on individual personnel matters . ''
Asked by Labour 's Yvette Cooper how many complaints had been made against Ms Patel , Mr Gove said it would be `` improper '' to comment on an `` individual personnel case '' .

The woman then took a further overdose at home in what is described as an attempt to kill herself and was rushed to hospital where she spent the night in resuscitation, according to the documents.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--William and Kate to begin three-day Ireland visit

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are due to begin a three-day visit to the Republic of Ireland later on Tuesday .
It is the couple 's first official visit to the country .
Kensington Palace said the trip , which will see them spend time in Dublin , Galway and counties Meath and Kildare , will highlight the `` many strong links between the UK and Ireland '' .
Last month Catherine visited Northern Ireland where she met children at an open farm in County Down .
The couple have visited Belfast on a number of occasions .
During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Michael D Higgins , caretaker Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and senior political leaders .
They will also meet children and young people and `` those working in the creative arts , business and charity sectors '' .
The palace said that the couple would `` take in Ireland 's rich culture , its impactful community initiatives and spectacular scenery '' .
They will also hear more about Ireland 's conservation initiatives and efforts to protect its environment as well as seeing `` modern and traditional Irish culture for themselves '' .
Why are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may be turbulent times for the Royal Family but this visit is an opportunity to focus on an old relationship - the one between the Republic of Ireland and the UK .
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge 's three-day visit is the latest in a series of moves over the past decade designed to improve Anglo-Irish relations .
The Queen 's state visit in 2011 is considered a major turning point in that relationship but Brexit and the protracted negotiations over the Irish border have put a strain on things once again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they want to `` build a lasting friendship with the Irish people '' .
If the Queen 's visit looked to heal past wounds , this one looks to the future .
Could the young royals ' visit remind people of just how much has been achieved by good relations across the Irish Sea ?
Read more : What do William and Kate hope to achieve in Ireland ?

"We are very much looking forward to our next two days in Ireland, where I have no doubt we will continue to be impressed by the creativity, warmth and hospitality the Irish people have to offer," he added.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Giant plastic coils wash up on coast after Storm Dennis

Giant coils of plastic pipes have washed up on beaches in Wales and Devon after a container carrying them was lost from a cargo ship in a storm .
The 200 coils , up to 400m ( 1,310ft ) in length , fell from a vessel travelling from Ireland last month .
Makers Pipelife UK said it would `` collect the coils as quickly as possible '' for recycling .
It said about 80 coils , used in the plumbing sector , have been found so far .
The Porthcawl branch of the National Coastwatch Institution said its volunteers had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ south Wales .
`` These coils are getting washed up along the coastline from north Wales , up the Bristol Channel and across the north Devon coastline , '' it said in a statement on Facebook .
It said about 30 coils had been spotted on beaches in the Porthcawl area and that it was passing on information to the manufacturers .
The piping was on a ship en route to Holland when it was hit by gale force winds during Storm Dennis , according to the firm .
In a statement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grateful to the general public for informing us when they encounter them as this allows us to respond and collect the coils as quickly as possible , with due regard to the safety issues involved .
`` Our commitment to reducing plastic waste is a fundamental operating principle of our company and when unforeseen accidental incidents occur such as this one , we strive to remedy the situation as quickly as possible . ''
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency ( MCA ) said it was investigating after debris washed up along the shoreline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ councils coordinating the clean-up .
Its Llantwit Major crew found coils at Southerndown and placed them above the high water mark to be collected for disposal last week along with other finds by its teams covering Croyde and Bideford in Devon .
The MCA asked people who spotted the coils to report their location to its local operations centres .
`` This material has an owner , therefore , if you do recover anything , be aware that you have a legal requirement to report it , '' it said .

In a statement, it said: "We are deeply grateful to the general public for informing us when they encounter them as this allows us to respond and collect the coils as quickly as possible, with due regard to the safety issues involved.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Labour: Party 'braced for losses' in May's council elections

The challenge facing Labour 's next leader has been laid bare by internal research suggesting the party is facing `` one of its worst '' results in recent history in May 's local elections .
An internal party document , passed to the BBC , says it should brace itself for the loss of councils including Plymouth , Amber Valley and Harlow .
In a worst-case scenario , Labour risks losing 315 seats and control of historic strongholds such as Sheffield .
Voters go to the polls on 7 May .
Seats in about 118 councils in England will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be Labour 's next leader ?
• Corbyn : I will not lead Labour at next election Mr Corbyn 's successor as Labour leader will be announced on 4 April , leaving them with barely a month to lead the party into its most significant electoral test since December 's general election defeat .
The challenge facing whichever of Sir Keir Starmer , Rebecca Long-Bailey or Lisa Nandy wins the contest is laid bare in an internal party document based on research from Labour 's Targeting and Analysis team .
It says the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worst local election performances in recent history '' in England and should brace itself for the loss of `` hard working councillors '' across the country .
The document examines three different scenarios , based on varying polling methods - and taking into account Labour 's general election performance .
These suggest the so-called Red Wall , breached so spectacularly by the Conservatives in December 's general election , is continuing to crumble in some areas .
Seats are up for grabs in around 118 English local councils on 7 May , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northamptonshire .
All councillors are up for re-election in a number of Labour-controlled councils , including Rotherham , Salford and Bristol .
Voters will also be able to elect a third of councillors in 33 metropolitan boroughs and 51 non-metropolitan district councils .
They will also elect a third of councillors in 15 unitary authorities , including areas like Plymouth , Southampton , Hull and Slough where Labour are in charge .
Elections for 36 Police and Crime Commissioners and eight directly elected mayors - including in London - will take place on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Labour would lose control of Plymouth , Harlow in Essex , Amber Valley in Derbyshire and West Lancashire .
In two scenarios Southampton would be lost and in the worst-case scenario , the bastion of Sheffield , held by Labour for most of the last 75 years , would also fall .
In this scenario , Labour would lose control of another nine councils , with 315 councillors across England losing their seats .
Only Wirral , where Labour is currently running a minority administration , and Burnley , where Labour is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hung '' council , are listed as possible gains .
The document suggests that the situation could be even worse as the party 's polling has n't taken into account the recent Conservative poll `` bounce '' but it adds that it can not yet estimate the effect of a change of leadership on the election results .
To state the obvious , that leader will have their work cut out .
A Labour Party spokesperson said : `` We recognise the scale of the challenge we face on May 7th and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the local elections . ''

In every scenario, Labour would lose control of Plymouth, Harlow in Essex, Amber Valley in Derbyshire and West Lancashire. In two scenarios Southampton would be lost and in the worst-case scenario, the bastion of Sheffield, held by Labour for most of the last 75 years, would also fall.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Limavady: 'Snowball altercation' leads to police conduct inquiry

Northern Ireland 's police ombudsman is investigating the conduct of an off-duty police officer who appeared to restrain a teenage boy after a snowball was thrown at the man 's vehicle .
A video of the incident , which happened in Limavady , County Londonderry , on 27 February , has been shared over 100,000 times online .
It shows the officer confronting the 14-year-old in a shop in the town .
The police watchdog said it was investigating the incident .
`` We are investigating an altercation involving a police officer and a schoolboy , '' said a spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Our investigators have begun the process of gathering evidence to assess the appropriateness of the officer 's actions during the incident . ''
The footage shows a struggle and an exchange of words between the boy and the off-duty officer .
The officer can be heard trying to explain what he is doing and asking the boy if he understands .
Near the end of the video the boy is moved into what appears to be a store room and the door is then closed .
The Police Service of Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received a report that a teenager was assaulted at about 10:20 GMT on 27 February .
`` It was reported that snowballs had been thrown in the area and that one had struck a passing vehicle , '' added the PSNI .
The boy 's parents told BBC Radio Foyle they are `` disturbed and angry '' and have asked for the footage to be removed from social media .
They said `` it 's very sad that he was treated so poorly '' .
`` This officer should have noticed very quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' they added .

The solicitor said additional footage of the incident had since emerged and he understood this would also be made available to the ombudsman.


bbcuk--2020-03-02--Coronavirus: Should I self-isolate and how do I do it?

Some people are being asked to isolate themselves to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
So , what do you need to know about self-isolation and how to do it ?
Do I need to self-isolate ?
You may need to isolate yourself if you have travelled to an affected area , or have been in close contact with an infected person .
Travellers returning from many parts of Asia where the virus is prevalent and Italy north of Pisa - you can find a full list of countries here - are only being asked to self-isolate and get tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a cough , fever or shortness of breath .
Do n't go to the GP or hospital - stay indoors and call NHS 111 , even if your symptoms are mild .
( In parts of Wales where 111 is n't available , call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 , and in Northern Ireland you should call your GP . )
Other people returning from some virus hotspots are being asked to isolate themselves and call 111 - even if they have no symptoms .
That applies if you 've returned from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under quarantine or the `` special care zones '' in South Korea since 19 February - or from Hubei province in China in the last 14 days .
People should also self-isolate if they have been in `` close and sustained '' contact with individuals with the virus .
Spending 15 minutes within two metres ( 6ft ) of an infected person is judged to be a significant risk .
What should I do in self-isolation ?
People needing to self-isolate should take `` common-sense '' steps to avoid close contact with other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That means staying at home for 14 days , not going to work , school or other public places , and avoiding public transport or taxis .
You should stay in a well-ventilated room with a window that can be opened and remain separate from other people in your home .
Ask for help if you need groceries , other shopping or medication .
It 's OK to have friends , family or delivery drivers drop off supplies to get you through the two weeks .
But you should n't have any visitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deliveries left on the doorstep .
• Coronavirus : What you need to know • Britain 's race to contain the coronavirus If you share a kitchen with others , try to avoid using it when other people are there and take your meals back to your room to eat .
You should even try to stay away from your pets - if that is n't possible , wash your hands before and after touching them .
Will I still get paid ?
Workers told to self-isolate by NHS 111 or public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as sick leave , the government has said .
Along with permanent staff , many casual or agency workers may be entitled to sick pay , but self-employed people are not .
Citizens Advice says people on zero-hours contracts can still get sick pay and should ask their employer .
However , if you 're not ill and do n't have symptoms during your self-isolation , employment law experts say there 's no automatic right to sick pay .
You can claim universal credit if you 're prevented from working because of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to care for a relative , or your child 's school is closed and you need to look after them at short notice , your employer must give you time off .
You probably wo n't get paid for it , unless it says so in your contract - but you may be able to work from home .
What if I live with someone who is self-isolating ?
Although you might not be able to entirely separate yourself from family members or flatmates , the advice is to limit contact as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your hands often , using soap and water for at least 20 seconds - especially after coming into contact with the patient or something that they have handled .
You should n't share towels , toiletries or other household items with someone in isolation and they should have a separate bathroom and toilet .
If that is not possible , the isolated person should use the bathroom last , cleaning it thoroughly afterwards if they are able .
Any rubbish that the isolated person has been in contact with should be double-bagged .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you know whether or not the isolated person has the virus .
If the person tests positive , you will be told what to do with their waste .

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


bbcuk--2020-02-28--How to wash your hands

How to wash your hands

Coronavirus has been seen in more than 30 countries .
The virus can spread from person to person and officials @ @ @ @ @ becoming infected .
Dr Adele McCormick from the University of Westminster demonstrated how germs spread @ @ @ @ @ are to avoid catching a virus .

Coronavirus has been seen in more than 30 countries. The virus can spread from person to person and officials recommend simple steps to avoid becoming infected.
Dr Adele McCormick from the University of Westminster demonstrated how germs spread and what the best methods are to avoid catching a virus.


bbcuk--2020-03-02--What are the symptoms?

What are the symptoms?

Coronavirus has spread to more than 60 countries , including the UK .
So , what is the disease and what can you do to protect yourself ?
What are the coronavirus symptoms ?
It seems to start with a fever , followed by a dry cough .
After a week , it leads to shortness of breath and some patients require hospital treatment .
These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness and are similar to those for much more common viruses , such as colds and flu .
In more severe cases , coronavirus can cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ multiple organ failure and even death .
Older people , and people with pre-existing medical conditions ( such as asthma , diabetes , heart disease ) , are more likely to become severely ill .
The incubation period - between infection and showing any symptoms - lasts up to 14 days , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) says .
But some researchers say it may be up to 24 days .
• How is the UK planning for an outbreak ?
• Coronavirus : Can it harm breastfed babies , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Regular and thorough hand washing is crucial in the fight to avoid picking up the disease , health agencies say .
It is not yet known exactly how coronavirus spreads from person to person .
However , similar viruses are spread via droplets , such as those produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes .
So , coughing and sneezing into tissues , not touching your face with unwashed hands , and trying to avoid close contact with infected people are important .
What should I do if I think I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk to individuals in the UK remains low .
But people who think they may be affected by coronavirus need to call the NHS 111 phone service for further advice .
They should not go to their GP , or A & E .
If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected , you may be told to self-isolate .
People needing to do so should take `` common-sense '' steps to avoid close contact with other people , says Public Health England .
Advice for people who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main affected areas and some other countries has been issued by the government .
Full details of the countries concerned and whether you need to self-isolate are available here .
The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Hubei province and all but essential travel to the rest of mainland China , Daegu and Cheongdo in South Korea and 11 small towns in northern Italy .
Other countries have their own measures in place .
For example , the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention advises people showing symptoms to call their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mildly ill to self-isolate .
How fast is it spreading and will I get it ?
Hundreds of new cases are being reported worldwide each day .
However , it is thought health agencies may be unaware of many cases .
After starting in China , coronavirus is now spreading fast in countries like South Korea , Italy and Iran .
How deadly is coronavirus and will I get better ?
Four out of five people who contract coronavirus will only experience mild symptoms , a WHO examination of data from 56,000 patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dying from the disease appears low ( between 1 % and 2 % ) - but the figures are unreliable .
Thousands are still being treated but may go on to die - so the death rate could be higher .
But it is also unclear how many mild cases remain unreported - so the death rate could also be lower .
To put this into context , about one billion people catch influenza every year , with between 290,000 and 650,000 deaths .
The severity of flu changes every year .
Right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - keeping the patient 's body going , including breathing support , until their immune system can fight off the virus .
However , the work to develop a vaccine is under way and it is hoped there will be human trials before the end of the year .
Hospitals are also testing anti-viral drugs to see if they have an impact .
This explainer will be regularly updated to reflect the audience 's questions about coronavirus .
Details of how to get in touch are below .
What questions do you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

Older people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure), are more likely to become severely ill. Men are at slightly higher risk of dying from the virus than women.


Five need-to-know things

Myths around the risks of coronavirus in the UK are doing the rounds .
We put the facts straight .
You might be starting to see people wearing them in the UK , but there is limited evidence that they work .
That 's because they are generally too loose , do n't cover the eyes and ca n't be worn for long periods .
Face masks need to be changed frequently ( because they get sweaty ) , if they are to offer any real protection .
To protect yourself , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cover your mouth and nose while sneezing , with a tissue or your elbow • wash your hands afterwards , and then frequently , with soap or sanitiser • keep your distance from people who are coughing and sneezing ( at least one metre ) • using sesame oil under the nose None of these will help protect against the new virus in any way , the WHO adds .
You ca n't catch the virus from animals There is no evidence that your pet dog or cat can be infected with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But that does n't mean you should n't regularly wash your hands with soap and water after touching them .
Even cuddly pets can carry bacteria such as E.coli and salmonella - and these are bugs that can pass between pets and humans .
The new ( and as yet unnamed ) coronavirus is thought to have originated in a live animal market in Wuhan , China - with the source likely to be wildlife .
The virus could have gone unnoticed in animals before jumping to humans , which is how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu , Ebola , Sars .
But that does n't mean animals in general are dangerous or spreaders .
• Coronavirus : How worried should we be ?
Most people will have mild symptoms ( cough , high temperature ) and will recover , the UK 's top doctor says .
However , the virus is making some people seriously ill ( pneumonia , breathing problems ) and killing a small number ( severe lung issues ) in China .
Remember that flu , which circulates every winter , kills people too - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complications of flu in the UK every year .
`` The risk is tiny compared to seasonal flu because of all the precautions in place in the UK '' , says Prof Jonathan Ball , from Nottingham University .
He recommends good personal hygiene to protect against flu and coronavirus .
Scientists still do n't know exactly how the new virus is spread .
`` Tiny droplets from coughs and breathing are most likely , '' Prof Ball says , so quarantining or isolating those returning from Wuhan is going to lower that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine at the moment is still advised by UK health officials .
But there is no cure There are no specific medicines or vaccines for the new virus , and antibiotics do n't work either ( they fight off bacteria ) .
Treatment options do exist but most people get better on their own .
Scientists are working hard to develop a vaccine , but this will have to be tested in trials first , so it could be some time before it 's ready .
Older people and those with other health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease , cancer and diabetes , are most vulnerable to the new virus .
Although anyone of any age can get it , only a small proportion of people are dying from it .
There is no need to avoid your local take-away or to stop buying Chinese food or beer from any other outlet , despite fears on social media .
The WHO say it 's also safe to receive packages and letters from China .
The virus is unlikely to survive for long on these kind of surfaces , and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You have to be in close contact with an infected person - within two metres for 15 minutes or more - to be at risk , according to advice from Public Health England .
People who have returned to the UK from Wuhan and Hubei province in China in recent weeks , or been in close contact with people there , are most at risk of having the virus .
Health officials are now trying to trace as many of them as they can .
They are also asking travellers to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to check themselves for symptoms , even mild ones , such as a cough or fever .

Although anyone of any age can get it, it is hoped that only one in five of the population will be infected - but the worst case scenario could be 80%.


bbcuk--2020-02-27--How close are we to a vaccine?

How close are we to a vaccine?

As cases of coronavirus increase around the globe , the focus is turning to finding a vaccine .
We 've answered some of the big questions about vaccines and how soon one for coronavirus could be ready .
Vaccines are like teachers - their pupil is the immune system and their lesson is how to fight infection .
Vaccines harmlessly show viruses or bacteria ( or even small parts of them ) to the immune system .
The body 's defences recognise it as an invader and then learn how to fight it .
Then if the body is ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fight the infection .
What different types are there ?
The main method of vaccination for decades has been to use the original virus .
So the measles , mumps and rubella vaccine is made by using weakened versions of those viruses that can not cause a full-blown infection .
The seasonal flu jab is made by taking the main strains of flu doing the rounds and completely disabling them .
The work on a new coronavirus vaccine is using newer , and less tested , approaches called `` plug and play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ genetic code of the new coronavirus , Sars-CoV-2 , we now have the complete blueprint for building that virus .
Some vaccine scientists are lifting small sections of the coronavirus 's genetic code and putting it into other , completely harmless , viruses .
Now you can `` infect '' someone with the harmless bug and in theory give some immunity to the coronavirus .
Other groups are using pieces of raw genetic code ( either DNA or RNA depending on the approach ) which once injected into the body should start producing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system again can learn to fight .
What 's the progress so far on finding one for coronavirus ?
Researchers have developed vaccines and are starting to test them on animals .
If one is found , how quickly could it be made available ?
Realistically it is going to be mid-way through next year at best .
So there are vaccines being tested in animals , if that goes well there could be human trials later in the year .
But even if scientists can celebrate having developed a vaccine before Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being able to mass produce it .
All of this is happening on a unprecedented timescale and using new approaches to vaccines so there are no guarantees everything will go smoothly .
Remember there are four coronaviruses that already circulate in human beings .
They cause the common cold and we do n't have vaccines for any of them .
Would it protect people of all ages ?
It will , almost inevitably , be less successful in older people .
This is not due to the vaccine itself , but aged immune @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immunisation .
We see this every year with the flu jab .
Could there be any side effects ?
All medicines , even paracetamol , have side effects .
But without clinical trials it is impossible to know what the side effects of an experimental vaccine may be .
Until a vaccine is developed , what treatments are available ?
Vaccines prevent infections and the best way of doing that at the moment is good hygiene .
If you are infected , then for most people it would be mild .
There are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trials , but we can not say for sure any of these work .

Covid vaccine update: Those that work - and the others on the way Published 28 May 2021
Image source, Getty Images
Covid vaccination campaigns are under way in the UK and across the world.
A range of vaccines are being used to reduce people's chances of getting sick, needing hospital treatment or dying.
Why do we need a vaccine?
It is more than a year since the virus first emerged, yet many people are still vulnerable.
The restrictions on our lives help keep the virus in check as they reduce opportunities for the virus to spread.
Vaccines teach our bodies to fight the infection and are "the" exit strategy from the pandemic.
The big three - Pfizer/BioNtech, Moderna and Oxford/AstraZeneca
The three vaccine frontrunners are those developed by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Oxford-AstraZeneca.
Pfizer and Moderna both developed RNA vaccines - a new approach that is incredibly quick to design.
They inject a tiny fragment of the virus's genetic code into the body, which starts producing part of the coronavirus and pushes the body to mount a defence.
These have been approved for use in the UK, Europe and the US.
The Oxford vaccine is subtly different as it uses a harmless virus to carry the same genetic material into the body. This has been approved in the UK and Europe.
It is the easiest of the three to use as it can be stored in a fridge, rather than needing very cold temperatures.
All three are supposed to be given as two doses.
Janssen and Novavax
A single-dose Covid vaccine made by Janssen has now been approved for use in the UK.
Twenty million doses of the jab, which was 85% effective in stopping severe illness from Covid-19 in trials, will arrive later this year.
Because only one dose is needed - and the vaccine can be stored in a fridge - it could have a significant impact around the world. A billion doses are planned this year.
Another jab, Novavax, is also being reviewed by drugs regulators.
It uses a different, old-school, approach to vaccines - proteins from the virus and a chemical to prime the immune system are injected into the body.
What is the rest of the world doing?
There are other noteworthy vaccines, even if they are not being used in Europe and the US.
The Sinovac, CanSino and Sinopharm vaccines have been developed by scientists in China and deals have signed with other countries in Asia and South America. Around one million people in China are reported to have been given the Sinopharm injection.
The Sputnik V vaccine, developed by Russia's Gamaleya Research Centre, is also effective according to late stage trial results published in The Lancet. Some people have been immunised.
The vaccine, which works in a similar way to the Oxford-AstraZeneca and Janssen vaccines has also been deemed to be safe - and offer complete protection against hospitalisation and death.
Are they all equally effective?
It is hard to compare one company's results with another as their trials will have been conducted in slightly different ways and at different points in the pandemic.
However, all the main vaccines seem to have a large impact on your chances of needing hospital treatment or dying from Covid.
Nonetheless, one of the most important questions - do they stop you spreading the virus - remains unknown.
Understanding which method produces the best results will be explored in challenge trials where people are deliberately infected with the virus.
What about variants?
New versions of the coronavirus are emerging in countries around the world.
However, there is a warning sign from Janssen and Novavax, which have the first "real-world" data on the new variants.
Both showed a dip in their overall effectiveness in South Africa, where a new and worrying variant has been spreading.
The results were still good and clearly better than no vaccine at all, but they emphasise how coronavirus is a moving target.
We may need to change the vaccines we use in the future.
What still needs to be done?
Huge-scale manufacturing to produce billions of doses and distribute them around the world
Research to find out how long protection lasts
Research to discover what effect vaccine have on the spread of the virus


bbcuk--2020-03-03--The multimillionaire's plan to reinvent a town

Clarks in Bishop Auckland was once a place where tiny feet were squeezed into their first pair of school shoes .
Now , half-packed cardboard boxes are strewn across the deserted shop floor .
`` This is n't goodbye , '' the notice in the window reassures passers-by .
You can still buy Clarks shoes online - or drive 20 minutes to Durham .
Clarks is just the latest shop to close its doors in the north-eastern English town .
More than one in five properties lie vacant , almost double the national average of 12 % .
The deteriorating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ white paint - tells a similar story to many high streets across the country , which have struggled with the rise of online shopping .
Bishop Auckland , with its 25,000 residents , used to be the heart of coal-mining country .
The gradual demise of the industry in the latter half of the last century brought with it decades of economic decline .
But the fortunes of the town may be about to change .
It has something that others do n't : a multimillionaire willing to pour his own money into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK 's crisis-hit High Streets • Why the UK 's shops are closing down Former stockbroker Jonathan Ruffer 's interest in Bishop Auckland is n't immediately clear - the 68-year-old had no connection to Bishop Auckland until a decade ago .
But the avid art collector decided to intervene when the Church of England chose to sell the town 's most famous paintings that hung in Auckland Castle .
He bought the set of portraits by the Spanish master Francisco de Zurbaran .
Then he bought the castle .
`` My original @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a way of saying ' I am on your side ' to the community , '' says Mr Ruffer .
`` I was on the lookout for some way to engage with somewhere in the North East .
I 'm not the slightest bit interested in visitor attractions , I 'm only interested in regeneration . ''
After three years of extensive renovations , the 900-year-old castle re-opened to the public last year .
So how much money is the businessman willing to spend ?
`` I 'm very shy when it comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he says .
`` I 'm a drain-pipe - whatever comes in at the top , leaves the bottom , '' he adds cryptically .
Mr Ruffer grew up in Stokesley , near Middlesbrough , before heading south to study at Cambridge University .
He went on to become one of the City 's most successful fund managers , co-founding a London-based investment company .
There he served wealthy clients and managed billions of pounds ' worth of assets .
It made him rich , too .
Then Mr Ruffer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , decided to give most of his fortune away .
Philanthropy is a `` vomit-inducing word '' , the devout Christian says , but he ca n't find another way to describe what he is doing .
Seven years ago , Mr Ruffer started a charity to reinvigorate Bishop Auckland .
Out of it has come an art museum documenting life in the coal mines , and from next year , tourists will be able to visit a Spanish art gallery which will house the masterpieces he bought 10 years earlier .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the castle will open , and there is a plan to renovate several derelict hotels .
The Auckland Project has also been buying up empty shops , but its proposals for them are still under wraps .
Although Mr Ruffer is vague about the exact amount he 's spending , the scale of the project is clear .
He hopes the tourist attractions , which are just off the main shopping artery , Newgate Street , will help the `` circulation of blood '' to the town centre .
But what do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a small , warm tea room on the main high street , Nicky Caruso says she would rather Bishop Auckland had a Primark than a castle .
Ms Caruso , who set up the cafe last year , says only about one in five of her customers are from outside the town .
Gazing out onto the quiet street , she says the council `` should try and cater for local people more '' .
Down the road from the cafe , in a shop selling electrical appliances , assistant David Little says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but its custom `` does n't trickle down to day-to-day business '' .
`` People go to the castle and go home , '' he says .
`` Tourists do n't see Bishop - they see a car park . ''
Mr Little , who has worked in the shop for 24 years , says old-fashioned customer service and a loyal following has helped the business survive , but he has seen a decline over the years .
`` The footfall just is n't what it used to be , '' he says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time . ''
One of the things sucking trade away from the high street is a new out-of-town retail park .
In a heavy blow , Marks & Spencer upped sticks and moved to the complex in 2013 , despite a petition signed by thousands of locals .
By 2017 , the big names were stampeding to the exit .
Dorothy Perkins and Beales were among 20 chains that shut up shop .
'Too much emphasis ' on regenerating cities The dramatic changes over the last ten years are illustrated by interactive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ openings and closures collected by the Local Data Company .
There are now 61 vacant units - more than half of which have sat empty for more than three years .
Local councillor Carl Marshall insists the retail park is not solely to blame for the high street 's decay .
`` Consumer habits have changed , '' he says .
`` If they were n't accessing out-of-town retail in Bishop Auckland they would just be travelling into Durham city , just up the road . ''
So instead of trying to hang @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council is counting on Bishop Auckland attracting tourists who will visit local independent shops .
Some new businesses have opened in recent years , with the number of cafes increasing .
The new shops are not hipster boutiques - one of the cafes is a '50s-themed coffee shop which sells cream teas .
While the council has bid for a £25m slice of a government fund to help struggling high streets , it 's aware that Mr Ruffer 's investment is on a scale that no local authority could match .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has given Bishop Auckland a `` unique opportunity '' to become a tourist attraction , the councillor says .
For a family-run business that was set up more than 50 years ago , Mr Ruffer 's investment offers hope .
Luca Rea-Dobson - a scaffolder who helps his mother Anna run the `` proper cafe '' - says the businessman 's presence is a `` blessing '' .
He laughs as he says the former stockbroker `` could have gone anywhere '' .
But Mr Rea-Dobson says the businessman 's investment has `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locals becoming impatient .
`` You get a lot of people complaining that it 's not happened overnight , '' he says .
One of the multimillionaire 's first projects was Kynren , an annual outdoor show on a farm near the castle that started in 2016 .
The performance tells the history of England with a 1,000-strong cast and crew made up of local volunteers .
`` I laughed when I first heard about it , '' says Mr Rea-Dobson .
But he volunteered to take part anyway .
`` I had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a living .
I 'd never wielded a sword before , '' he says .
`` But after the first show , the whole town was buzzing . ''
Kynren is now a top UK attraction on TripAdvisor .
Despite such successes , Mr Ruffer is aware that regenerating Bishop Auckland will take time .
`` We always felt this was a 25 year project , '' he says .
`` We 're not quite half way through . ''
In the meantime , Mr Rea-Dobson 's mum , Anna , says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come through her cafe 's door , although a loyal base of older regulars is keeping her going .
She finds the promise of future trade from Mr Ruffer 's tourist attractions encouraging .
`` It 's what I hang on to , really , '' she says .
She pauses , then adds : `` How long I can hang on is another thing . ''
Bishop Auckland 's high street faces significant challenges .
Like other towns , it 's going to have to adapt to survive , though it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historical assets to make the most of .
Its past is its future , in many ways , but saving a town is n't a quick fix .
Still , could this town be at a tipping point ?
BBC News will be following the progress of Bishop Auckland 's town centre this year as part of the # BBCMyHighStreet project .
Do you have a story about your local high street which we should cover ?
Email myhighstreet @ bbc.co.uk

For a family-run business that was set up more than 50 years ago, Mr Ruffer's investment offers hope. Luca Rea-Dobson - a scaffolder who helps his mother Anna run the "proper cafe" - says the businessman's presence is a "blessing". He laughs as he says the former stockbroker "could have gone anywhere". But Mr Rea-Dobson says the businessman's investment has "split the town", with some locals becoming impatient. "You get a lot of people complaining that it's not happened overnight," he says.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Pretty Woman: West End debut gets mixed reviews

Pretty Woman : The Musical has received mixed reviews from critics after its debut in the West End .
The show , which has already enjoyed a successful Broadway run , opened at London 's Piccadilly Theatre on Monday .
Aimie Atkinson and Danny Mac take on the roles played by Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in the 1990 film .
`` From the get-go , this is a heart-warming retelling of the film - sensual , sexy and full of sass , '' wrote Howell Davies in The Sun .
`` It is truthful to the iconic flick and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ woke changes to the much-loved story , which audiences will be grateful for . ''
Pretty Woman tells the story of a wealthy businessman who hires a prostitute while on a business trip in Los Angeles .
The pair - Edward and Vivian - spend a full week together and end up falling in love as they attempt to bridge the gap between their very different worlds .
Writing in The Evening Standard , Nick Curtis said Atkinson `` brings both power and depth to [ Vivian 's ] big numbers '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could do for her what the film did for Roberts . ''
He described the musical as `` a triumph of exuberant zest over dodgy subject matter .
It matches the charm of the film but has a subversive energy all its own '' .
But Natasha Tripney in The Stage drew attention to the show 's male-heavy creative team , arguing it somewhat dampened any feminist message the musical attempted to convey .
`` Produced in 2020 , created predominantly by men but marketed at women , this is nostalgia-by-numbers padded out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is icky , '' she wrote .
The musical has a male director ( Jerry Mitchell ) as well as male script writers ( Garry Marshall and JF Lawton ) , and composers ( Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance ) .
`` The musical format does at least grant her some interior life and a bit of backstory - Vivian sings about her wish to get off the streets and sort her life out - whereas in the film her character was primarily there to be looked at : It 's right there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It 's just that the songs are pedestrian at best and riddled with lyrical clichés , in some cases fading from the memory while still being performed . ''
The Telegraph 's Dominic Cavendish said : `` There are empowerment-sloganed T-shirts on sale but the evening has n't a progressive bone in its body .
`` Yet it 's also pretty harmless , a sanitised occasion which is almost as chaste as a parish newsletter , the pedestrian numbers serving as anaphrodisiacs . ''
`` Can the story still win us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like a shallow and at times tasteless show but , within the rules of a rom-com , it works in its central , schmaltzy storyline of love despite the odds , '' wrote Arifa Akbar in The Guardian .
`` There is also some attempt , however bolted on , to update the story 's sexual politics ...
However saccharine the story 's ending , Vivian at least wins Edward on her own terms . ''
Akbar also noted the lyrics to one song in the musical , in which Vivian sings : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control… I say who , I say when , I say how much . ''
But Alexandra Pollard of The Independent felt the feminist tweaks did n't go far enough , writing that the musical `` offers up a shallow and outdated version of sex work , female agency and womanhood '' .
Sarah Crompton of WhatsOnStage awarded the show two stars , writing : `` If Pretty Woman : The Musical had any conscience it would adapt itself to the actors performing it and to the era in which it has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a facsimile of a once-popular movie , reveals the ugliness at its core . ''
According to Clive Davis in The Times , the stage musical could not match the expensive look of the Hollywood movie .
`` It takes some time to adjust to the lack of glitz , '' he wrote .
`` If the movie was an in-your-face celebration of Gucci and Chanel , the musical 's set designs are more bargain basement than Beverly Hills .
`` Everything looks rather cheap and impermanent ... Harsh lighting adds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first half of the evening . ''
`` Fans can rest assured that the show follows the film faithfully , '' noted The Daily Mail 's Patrick Marmion .
`` And although it 's sunny without being dazzling , in the end it delivers what we all want most : A sing-along to Roy Orbison 's title song .
`` So , even if queues for the ladies ' loos looked knee-knittingly long to me , I foresee great business with hen parties . ''
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

"The musical format does at least grant her some interior life and a bit of backstory - Vivian sings about her wish to get off the streets and sort her life out - whereas in the film her character was primarily there to be looked at: It's right there in the title," Tripney continued.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Choppy waters of Brexit threaten Danish fishing

With an icy wind blowing behind it the fishing trawler Asbjoern 265 enters port in Skagen on the very northern tip of Denmark .
It 's Denmark 's busiest fishing harbour .
A flock of seagulls wheels overhead , raucous and hungry .
Snowflakes drift in the air .
Out to sea a line of white waves mark the turbulent waters where the currents of the North Sea and the Baltic collide .
The Asbjoern is an impressive sight .
It is 75m ( 246ft ) long , freshly painted , with a hold crammed with fish .
This catch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worth more than £1m ( $ 1.3m ) .
The boat is Danish .
These fish have been caught to the west of Ireland .
But most of what the Asbjoern lands comes from UK seas .
`` Sixty percent of our catches come from UK waters , so Brexit is a big issue for us , '' says Fridi Magnussen , owner of the Asbjoern .
`` The saying is they will 'take back control ' , '' he says , `` and we do n't know what that means .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history we have been able to fish in the North Sea and the UK waters , for all time . ''
After Brexit the UK is taking control of its exclusive economic zone , stretching up to 200 nautical miles offshore .
This concept of a country 's waters was adopted in the 1980s .
But fishing patterns that predate that , from the 1970s , were used to decide the division of fishing quotas between EU countries , the UK , Norway , the Faroe Islands and Iceland .
`` I ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything back to the UK , as Danish fishermen have been operating in those waters for centuries , '' says Esben Sverdrup-Jensen of the Danish Pelagic Producer 's Organisation .
His members run the big trawlers , like the Asbjoern , that fish open waters for species like herring , mackerel , sprats and sand eel .
Much of it is not for human consumption but turned into fish meal for chicken , pig or salmon farming .
`` Handing back anything is not really any sort of an argument .
No , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signing up to anything that would be in conflict with the mandate agreed upon in the EU , '' he says .
Read more on Brexit and the fishing industry : • Is this the next big Brexit argument ?
• So long and thanks for all the fish ?
• Fishing will be a 'red line ' in Brexit negotiations The EU 's mandate , its position in the negotiations , is that both current access to UK waters and the current share held by each country must stay the same .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ fishing is a precondition for granting the UK a trade deal .
But the UK says it alone will decide what happens in UK waters and , because it has many of the rich fishing grounds , UK boats are entitled to a greater share of all the fish caught .
On the bridge of his trawler the Ceton 's skipper , Johannes Claesson , is surrounded by giant TV screens .
They show detailed , digital maps he has made of the fishing grounds .
All boats , including UK ones , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just the fish but the best markets for them , he says .
`` When UK vessels are fishing their quota in UK zone or European zone , they also cross the border , because maybe they can sell their catches of fish for a higher price in Norway , the Faroe Islands or Denmark .
So they are crossing the border same as we do . ''
A study by the University of the Highlands and Islands in Scotland estimates that UK boats land around 40 % of the fish caught in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 50 % of the catch measured by value .
In a building on Skagen 's quayside a conveyor belt carries a constant flow of glistening fresh herring .
Machines take in the fish and , within seconds , clean fillets appear .
The factory produces 800 million herring fillets a year .
CEO Johannes Palsson says if the UK insists its boats catch more of the herring in UK waters Britain 's problem will be finding markets for that fish .
`` The biggest volumes of herrings for instance are consumed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK , '' he says .
It might be hard for the UK to sell , because the EU could impose tariffs , taxing any imports .
And he adds with a smile : `` Or English people have to learn to eat herring - a lot of it . ''
But British consumers generally do n't like herring , or the other main species caught in UK waters .
The UK exports up to 80 % of the fish it catches .
So businesses like salmon farmers , and crab and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the EU , could be vulnerable if there 's no fishing deal and the EU imposes tariffs .
In the fishmonger 's next to the herring factory they have displays of fresh seafood on ice : lumpfish , turbot , prawns , skate and many more .
Jan Nielson , who runs the shop , says even the fishermen on UK trawlers that call into Skagen do n't like to eat what they catch .
`` We supply the big trawlers with fish , because they do n't eat herring or hake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they give us a call and say can you deliver to us haddock or cod . ''
Above the door of Skagen 's town hall there 's a huge carving of a fish .
Mayor Birgit Hansen 's own family history shows the ties that have bound fishing communities on both sides of the North Sea .
`` My uncle he was a big fisherman in Grimsby .
He went from Denmark and he had two boats , and he lived in Grimsby for many years , '' she says .
He did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit Denmark in his own plane .
`` Brexit will change the world , '' she adds .
`` But I think still we are dependent on each other .
And we have to make some agreements that respect your decision in some way .
But also make sure that the English , British fishermen can sell their fish . ''
Fishing represents just a tiny part of what 's at stake in the coming Brexit negotiations but it is a uniquely emotive issue and both sides have warned that failure to find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal .

"My uncle he was a big fisherman in Grimsby. He went from Denmark and he had two boats, and he lived in Grimsby for many years," she says. He did so well in the UK he would visit Denmark in his own plane.


bbcuk--2020-03-03--Family and islanders remember WW2 plane crash on Skye

A 75th commemoration has been held to remember nine US airmen killed in a crash on Skye during World War Two .
Fresh from training , the crew were flying a B-17G Flying Fortress bomber from the US via Iceland to RAF Valley in Wales .
The aircraft clipped cliffs and crashed in Trotternish on 3 March 1945 .
Relatives of Second Lt Paul Overfield Jnr were among those gathering at a war memorial in Skye which carries the names of the nine men .
The 21-year-old pilot , along with co-pilot Second Lt Leroy E Cagle , navigator Second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cpl Arthur W Kopp Jr , engineer Cpl Harold D Blue and gunners Cpl John H Vaughan , Cpl Harold A Fahselt , Cpl George S Aldrich and Cpl Carter D Wilkinson died in the crash .
In foggy weather , the bomber crashed on Beinn Edra , the highest point on the Trotternish Ridge in Staffin .
Islanders who tried to go to their aid found the men 's personal belongings among the wreckage , including fishing rods and bicycles .
Parts of the wreckage are still visible on the ridge .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Staffin War Memorial five years ago to mark 70 years since the crash .
Second Lt Overfield 's sister Betty Foote , who is now in her late 80s and living in Florida , is not well enough to attend Tuesday 's 75th commemoration but other members of her family were expected at the event .
Recalling her older brother , she said : `` During high school he and his friends collected scrap iron on Saturdays for the cause ( war effort ) .
`` I was 13 years old and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The minister came to the school and took us home . ''
Former Army chaplain , the Rev Rory MacLeod , led the commemoration at Staffin War Memorial .
Relatives and islanders were to later gather at community building , the Columba 1400 Centre , and family were offered an opportunity to visit Skye and Lochalsh Archive Centre in Portree .
The commemoration was organised by Staffin Community Trust , supported by Staffin Community Council .

He told BBC Radio Scotland: "We came here today not only to remember Paul and the crew, but also to thank Staffin for the generosity and for everything they have done to remember my cousin.