bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveils £30bn plan to save jobs

Chancellor Rishi Sunak is to cut VAT on hospitality as part of a £30bn plan to prevent mass unemployment as the economy is hit by coronavirus .
The government will also pay firms a £1,000 bonus for every staff member kept on for three months when the furlough scheme ends in October .
And Mr Sunak announced a scheme to give 50 % off to people dining out in August .
The chancellor warned `` hardship lies ahead '' , but vowed no-one will be left `` without hope '' , in a statement to MPs .
He told MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accommodation and attractions from 20 % to 5 % from next Wednesday .
It came as the latest death toll for coronavirus , in all settings , increased by 126 to 44,517 .
• Chancellor gives diners 50 % off on eating out Labour said the chancellor 's plans did not go far enough and the job retention money should be better targeted to prevent it going to firms that were already planning to bring staff back .
`` We were promised a 'New Deal ' , but what we got was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
Mr Sunak rejected calls to extend the furlough scheme beyond October , saying it would give people `` false hope '' that they will have a job to return to , and `` the longer people are on furlough , the more likely it is their skills could fade '' .
He conceded that jobs would be lost but said he would `` never accept unemployment as an inevitable outcome '' of the pandemic .
Details of how the package will be paid for - through borrowing and possible tax rises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chancellor 's Autumn Budget .
`` Over the medium-term , we must , and we will , put our public finances back on a sustainable footing , '' he told MPs , adding that the jobs plan was merely the next stage `` in our fight to recover and rebuild after coronavirus '' .
The `` job retention bonus '' could cost as much as £9.4bn if every furloughed worker is brought back .
Explaining how it will work , the chancellor said : `` If you 're an employer and you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and continuously employ them through to January - we 'll pay you a £1,000 bonus per employee .
`` It 's vital people are n't just returning for the sake of it - they need to be doing decent work .
`` So for businesses to get the bonus , the employee must be paid at least £520 on average , in each month from November to the end of January - the equivalent of the lower earnings limit in National Insurance . ''
• What is VAT and how is it changing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eat-in or hot takeaway food and non-alcoholic drinks from restaurants , cafes and pubs , accommodation in hotels , B & Bs , campsites and caravan sites , and attractions like cinemas , theme parks and zoos .
Rishi Sunak said this `` £4bn catalyst '' would help protect `` over 2.4 million jobs '' .
The Treasury said it hoped firms would pass the VAT savings on to customers but many had been without income for months so it would be their decision .
Mr Sunak also announced an `` Eat Out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said would help protect 1.8 million jobs , at a cost of £0.5bn .
Meals eaten at any participating business , Monday to Wednesday , will be 50 % off in August , up to a maximum discount of £10 per head for everyone , including children .
Businesses will need to register , and can do so through a website , which will open next Monday .
Luke Johnson , former chairman of the Pizza Express , among other restaurant businesses , told BBC Radio 4 's PM the chancellor understood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Asked if the voucher scheme would work , he said : `` I think a lot of people are still frightened and so every inducement that can be brought to bear to encourage people to get back to their habits of eating and spending and working is good news . ''
The chancellor also announced a £2.1bn `` kickstart scheme '' to create more jobs for young people .
The fund will subsidise six-month work placements for people on Universal Credit aged between 16 and 24 , who are at risk of long-term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , costing £3.8bn , to stimulate the property market was another measure unveiled by the chancellor .
This will exempt the first £500,000 of all property sales from the tax , from midnight .
A few other pledges released in the build-up to his statement included : • Vouchers of up to £5,000 for energy-saving home improvements as part of a wider £3bn plan to cut emissions • A pledge to provide 30,000 new traineeships for young people in England • A £1.6bn package for the arts and heritage sector • The doubling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as an extra £32m for recruiting extra careers advisers and £17m for work academies in England Labour 's shadow chancellor Annaliese Dodds told the BBC she was `` concerned '' the UK looks `` set to be breaking the previous unfortunate record of three million people unemployed '' .
She said job support should be better targeted to help struggling sectors .
Some 9.3 million workers are having 80 % of their salaries paid for by the government - up to £2,500 a month - under the furlough scheme , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July , before being extended to October , with employer contributions .
From August , employers must pay National Insurance and pension contributions , then 10 % of pay from September , rising to 20 % in October .
Dame Carolyn Fairbairn , director general of the CBI , said : `` The job retention bonus will help firms protect jobs , but with nearly 70 % of firms running low on cash , and three in four reporting lack of demand , more immediate direct support for firms , from grants to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urgently needed . ''
Mike Cherry , chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses , said the newly self-employed and company directors had `` once again been overlooked '' .
The National Institute of Economic and Social Research warned that the chancellor 's `` badly timed '' measures `` could trigger a rapid rise in unemployment '' .
The think tank said he was ending the furlough scheme too early and the bonuses for employers to bring staff back `` look too small to be effective '' .
The Chancellor has just outlined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prop up the economy , specifically to try to keep millions of people from joining the dole .
Many of the measures run against traditional Tory instincts .
And there is n't a whiff of how any of it will be paid for , for at least another couple of months .
But that 's against the background of the sharpest decline in the economy in generations , with the fortunes of what will actually happen next dependent on the progress of a deadly disease .
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Asked if the voucher scheme would work, he said: "I think a lot of people are still frightened and so every inducement that can be brought to bear to encourage people to get back to their habits of eating and spending and working is good news."


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Public spending on coronavirus soars to £190bn

Public spending on the battle against coronavirus has risen to nearly £190bn , according to figures released by the Treasury on Wednesday .
In his summer statement on Wednesday , the Chancellor announced a £30bn package to combat the crisis .
He also revealed that direct public spending on the crisis - excluding the new measures - had reached £158.7bn .
That takes the total for extra spending this year to around £190bn .
That total is nearly £3,000 for every person in the UK - and more than the entire planned health budget for 2020-21 .
As recently as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watchdog , the Office for Budget Responsibility had estimated the figure at £133bn .
This extra spending is likely to push the gap between what the government spends and what it raises in taxes - the deficit - above the OBR 's latest estimate of around £300bn , according to the influential Institute for Fiscal Studies think tank .
Before the coronavirus outbreak began , the government was expecting a deficit of £55bn .
The extra public spending figure includes £15bn for spending on personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and tracing of infected persons , taking the total extra spending on health services to £32bn .
`` There is a huge public services additional spending that we did n't really know about that was announced today .
It was kind of skated over , but £15bn for PPE for frontline workers is an enormous sum , '' Paul Johnson , director of the IFS , told the BBC .
He believes the Chancellor 's strategy is spend money now , to minimise long-term damage to the economy , which would ultimately cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't think the Chancellor is desperately worried about the size of the deficit this year .
What will concern him is the size of the deficit the year after , and the year after , and the year after that , '' he said .
Other large measures include £4.7bn for local government , £5.3bn for public transport , and £4.1bn for Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
However , the impact of the coronavirus on the public finances remains highly uncertain .
Of the policy measures announced on in the summer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay employers £1,000 for every furloughed worker they retain past January .
The total bill could rise as high as £9.4bn , but only if every furloughed worker keeps their job .
There are some things no Chancellor can prepare for - such as what to do if your economy wipes out 18 years ' gains in two months of lockdown .
His solution was to temporarily deep freeze the economy , and pump money into crisis response .
And the thawing process needs more funds , to prevent long term damage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deficit , a shortfall of way more than the £300bn previously expected .
It 's equivalent to a bigger slice of the economy than at any time since the Second World War .
And it could get bigger ; if more is needed to support the recovery - or in the event of a severe second wave .
But it 's a cost worth bearing if it carries the economy through a devastating crisis , safeguard the damage to output and jobs - and ensure taxes get paid .
For at some point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussion about how we pay this back .
The government is currently borrowing record amounts on the financial markets to plug the gap - but that may not be enough .
There may have to be tax hikes , possibly less generous rises in pensions .
But it may be a while until the economy is robust enough to bear that .

"I don't think the chancellor is desperately worried about the size of the deficit this year. What will concern him is the size of the deficit the year after, and the year after, and the year after that," he said.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Care homes face staffing 'black hole' with new immigration bill

Care homes could face a staffing `` black hole '' because of the impact of the government 's immigration bill , care leaders have warned .
The Cavendish Coalition - which represents UK health and social care groups - says it is gravely concerned .
The current proposals would not allow enough overseas workers to be recruited , it has warned .
The government said immigration is `` not the answer to the challenges in the social care sector '' .
Leaders of 37 national care organisations , including the NHS Confederation , have signed the letter to the prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bill could have a damaging effect on care homes and other social care services , especially as the nation heads towards winter - which could bring further challenges due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The Immigration Bill , which has been given initial approval by MPs , repeals EU freedom of movement and introduces a new framework for who can come to live in the UK .
The legislation will put EU and European Economic Area ( EEA ) citizens on an equal footing to immigrants from outside the bloc .
It also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduce a new points-based system .
But the Cavendish Coalition said this points-based system currently does not include social care as the roles do not pass the proposed minimum salary threshold and `` are not classed as a shortage occupation '' .
• Eight ways new immigration laws will affect industry • No visas for low-skilled workers , government says One in six workers in the sector is a foreign national and earn on average between £16,400 and £18,400 in England , says the coalition .
But from next January , under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be on a minimum of £25,000 to be allowed in to the UK .
Danny Mortimer , co-convenor of the Cavendish Coalition and chief executive of NHS Employers , said : `` If adult social care was n't in a precarious position before coronavirus , it certainly is now . ''
He said one in five health and care workers have said that they are likely to leave their roles after the pandemic , adding that was `` pretty worrying '' given that the sector had 122,000 vacancies in England alone .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to come up with a `` transitional solution '' to `` navigate the gap '' between the new immigration system and a longer term plan and funding settlement for social care .
A Home Office spokesman said : `` The Migration Advisory Committee has been very clear in its assertion that immigration is not the answer to the challenges in the social care sector .
`` As we implement the new immigration system , we want employers to focus on investing in our domestic work force .
`` Additionally , the EU Settlement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens , and their family members , currently working in social care can stay in the UK and we are encouraging them to do so . ''

One in six workers in the sector is a foreign national and earn on average between £16,400 and £18,400 in England, says the coalition. But from next January, under the new bill, foreign workers will have to be on a minimum of £25,000 to be allowed in to the UK.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Nurse and midwife numbers jump by record amount

Record numbers of nurses and midwives have registered to work in the UK with 18,000 more than a year ago .
By the end of March , there were 716,600 nurses , midwives and nurse associates on the register , according to the Nursing and Midwifery Council .
Despite this the NMC is worried coronavirus will hit the ability to recruit and retain overseas staff .
The rise is driven by those joining and staying from the UK and from countries outside of Europe .
There has been a significant increase in those from the Philippines and India in particular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dropped by 5 % to just over 31,000 .
The NMC report includes the results of a survey of more than 6,000 people asking why they had left the profession .
The main reason given was too much pressure leading to stress and poor mental health .
This was before the coronavirus outbreak .
The NMC also revealed more than 14,000 had joined the temporary register set up to boost numbers during the pandemic .
This includes staff who have come out of retirement to help out .
NMC chief executive Andrea Sutcliffe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebrate record numbers of people on the register . ''
But she predicted there would be `` stormy waters ahead '' .
`` As a result of the pandemic and subsequent travel restrictions , we may no longer be able to rely on the flow of professionals joining our register from overseas in the same way . ''

The NMC also revealed more than 14,000 had joined the temporary register set up to boost numbers during the pandemic. This includes staff who have come out of retirement to help out.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: Scotland to enter next phase of lockdown easing

Scotland is set to formally enter the next phase of the government 's `` route map '' out of the coronavirus lockdown .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will make the announcement in a speech at Holyrood .
Some restrictions have already been eased , with shops reopening and the five-mile travel limit being lifted .
Changes set to be phased in over the coming weeks include the opening of bars and restaurants and the resumption of Scotland 's tourist industry .
People will be able to meet up in extended groups outdoors , and with two other households indoors , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 6in ) physical distancing rule is also to be relaxed in some circumstances to allow businesses to reopen more easily , although the wearing of face coverings in shops will become mandatory from Friday .
• Which lockdown rules have changed - and what 's next ?
Scotland 's coronavirus lockdown measures have to be reviewed every three weeks by law , and Thursday marks the latest of these milestones .
Indicative dates for many of the changes to be made in `` phase three '' have already been announced , and Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to confirm these in her Holyrood speech if progress in suppressing the virus continues .
Figures released by the National Records of Scotland on Wednesday showed the number of deaths linked to Covid-19 in Scotland falling for the tenth successive week .
There are now 767 patients in hospital who are suspected to have coronavirus , with only 11 in intensive care , and Ms Sturgeon said Scotland had made `` real and sustained progress against this virus '' .
It is estimated that for every 100,000 people in Scotland , just 28 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 0.028 % .
Speaking on Wednesday , Ms Sturgeon said : `` We are not yet at the stage where we can say that we have virtually eliminated the virus within the community .
`` But that prize is clearly attainable , and brings with it the prospect of a much brighter future and more sustainable recovery , including in particular the return of full-time education in August . ''
Shopping centres will be able to reopen from Monday 13 July , when dentists and optometrists will be allowed to begin scaling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barbers will resume business from 15 July , with enhanced hygiene measures in place , with indoor areas of bars and restaurants reopening the same day .
Further consideration is being given to other phase three changes , such as the return of indoor entertainment including nightclubs , theatres , bingo and music venues , along with indoor gyms and restrictions on numbers at weddings and funerals .
Although the Scottish Parliament is technically in its summer recess , MSPs will meet at Holyrood on Thursday to question Ms Sturgeon on her announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responding to the UK Chancellor 's summer budget announcement , and another on education .

Places of worship can resume services at that point, although numbers will be strictly limited, singing and chanting will be limited, and physical distancing will have to be observed. Restrictions on how many people can attend funeral and wedding services will also be eased.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Sir Mark Sedwill: UK's top civil servant to receive £250,000 payout

The UK 's top civil servant will receive a payout of almost £250,000 when he steps down in September .
Sir Mark Sedwill confirmed he was leaving Whitehall last month as Boris Johnson announced plans to split his role as cabinet secretary and national security adviser into two posts .
His exit follows reports of tensions between him and senior members of Mr Johnson 's team in Downing Street .
On Wednesday , the PM signed off the £248,189 pension contribution .
The amount was recommended by Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary Alex Chisholm , with advice from Civil Service Human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed by Mr Johnson .
In a note from No 10 , the PM said the payment was `` likely to be in the form of a pension contribution '' for Sir Mark .
Earlier on Wednesday , Sir Mark told the National Security Strategy Committee he had not `` resigned '' but left his post `` by agreement '' with the PM .
`` We had concluded it was time to split the jobs again and have a separate security adviser and separate cabinet secretary , '' he added .
Sir Mark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initiative '' , as it was `` never my intention to do that [ job ] long-term '' , but the departure was `` entirely amicable '' .
The UK 's chief negotiator in post-Brexit trade talks with the EU , David Frost , will take over as national security adviser as a political appointee .
The Cabinet Office has published a job advert for the cabinet secretary position , with a salary of £200,000 , and the role is open to current and former permanent secretaries .
The person who gets the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ implementing policy and the conduct of government .
Dominic Cummings , regarded as the prime minister 's most influential political adviser , has long called for an overhaul of the civil service .
Sir Mark is a career diplomat who served as Ambassador to Afghanistan during a 20-year career in the Foreign Office , before working alongside former Prime Minister Theresa May as the most senior civil servant in the Home Office .
He took over as cabinet secretary at short notice following Sir Jeremy Heywood 's death in November 2018 .
Asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street against him , Sir Mark told the committee that civil servants had become `` fair game '' and it `` goes with the territory '' .
He added : `` It is never pleasant to find oneself , particularly as an official , in the midst of stories of that kind .
`` I do n't think it is ever pleasant in government , whether it is against ministers , between them and particularly against officials , when you have briefings to which you can not really reply , particularly those that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But it is a regrettable feature of modern politics , I 'm afraid . ''
After he leaves government service in September , Sir Mark will be made a peer and will chair a new panel on global economic security when the UK assumes the presidency of the G7 economic group of nations .

"I don't think it is ever pleasant in government, whether it is against ministers, between them and particularly against officials, when you have briefings to which you cannot really reply, particularly those that are off the record and sniping away.


bbcuk--2020-07-09--Raoul Moat: 'It concerns me people see him as a hero'

The police chief who led the hunt for murderer Raoul Moat says she is still concerned people see him as a `` hero '' .
Sue Sim said she was critical of those who still admire the gunman 10 years after he shot and wounded his ex-partner , killed her new boyfriend , and shot a police officer in the face .
After a week-long manhunt and six-hour stand-off with armed police the former nightclub bouncer shot himself .
It comes after reports some intend to mark the anniversary of his death .
The former chief constable of Northumbria Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't feel empathy for somebody who sadistically gunned down and killed one individual and seriously harmed two others . ''
Moat , 37 , was released from Durham Prison in early July 2010 , following an 18-week sentence for assault .
Two days later he targeted his former girlfriend and her new partner .
Chris Brown was killed while Samantha Stobbart suffered life-threatening injuries .
Moat then also shot traffic officer PC David Rathband who was finishing his shift in a marked patrol car .
PC Rathband survived but lost his sight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own life in 2012 .
Moat disappeared and gained national notoriety as he became the subject of the largest manhunt the country had seen in 44 years .
After a week on the run , on 10 July , he was spotted in the riverbank area of Rothbury , Northumberland , and after a stand-off , he turned the gun on himself .
Following the incident flowers were left at the scene of Moat 's death and messages of sympathy to him were left on Facebook .
A 'tribute ' page was later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new interview ahead of the 10th anniversary of the incident , Sue Sim said : `` One of the things that does still concern me to this day is the number of people who still see Raoul Moat as a hero .
`` For people to put him on a pedestal as a hero , I 'm sorry - Dave Rathband was a hero , Raoul Moat was n't a hero . ''
She said she visited David Rathband regularly in hospital after he was shot by Moat .
`` That is one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this ... that a fine police officer took his own life as a result and I do blame Moat for David 's death . ''
PC Rathband was commended for his charity work in the wake of his injuries and started the Blue Lamp Foundation to help other emergency service staff injured in the line of duty .
In September 2011 , an inquest jury returned a verdict of suicide in the death of Raoul Moat .
The hearing was told Moat was hit by an experimental shotgun Taser round fired by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kill himself .
Meanwhile an Independent Police Complaints Commission report found no evidence of misconduct by officers .
The IPCC looked at the period from the sighting of Moat until his death , including strategy and tactics and the deployment of Tasers .
It concluded there may be `` some learning '' for Northumbria Police from the investigation but there was no evidence of misconduct by any police officers .
Sue Sim , who has now retired , defended the use of the Taser and expressed her regret that Moat never faced justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went , the officers all behaved superbly but in my view , it was a failure because I wanted that man brought to justice , put before a court and tried for the dreadful crimes he committed , '' she said .
In a statement the current chief constable of Northumbria Police , Winton Keenen , said the forces thoughts are with those affected by events 10 years ago , especially the victims and their families .
He paid tribute to PC David Rathband and Moat 's other victims : `` We particularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his life in the cowardly , unprovoked attack , as well as his partner Samantha Stobbart who thankfully survived her injuries - our thoughts remain with their families , friends and loved ones . ''
Help and support is available at the BBC Action Line .
Click here to listen to Rachel Burden 's full interview with Sue Sim on BBC Sounds .

She said she visited David Rathband regularly in hospital after he was shot by Moat. "That is one of the greatest tragedies out of all of this... that a fine police officer took his own life as a result and I do blame Moat for David's death."


bbcuk--2020-07-08--West Dulwich murder probe after man stabbed to death

A man has died in a stabbing in south London .
Police and paramedics were called to Seeley Drive , @ @ @ @ @ found the man with stab injuries at about 18:30 BST .
The man , thought @ @ @ @ @ was pronounced dead at the scene .
Police said they were working to find his @ @ @ @ @ has been launched .
No-one has been arrested and a crime scene remains in place @

The man, thought to be aged 18, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said they were working to find his family.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Comedy clubs get serious with plea for emergency arts funding

Comedy clubs have called for a slice of the government 's £1.5bn emergency arts funding , with a warning that hundreds face closure within the next year .
Comedy was not mentioned when the government announced its bailout package for the arts on Sunday .
Half of the clubs that took part in a Live Comedy Association survey said they would definitely face permanent closure without financial support .
Chair Brid Kirby said small venues were `` the bedrock of the entire industry '' .
She told BBC News : `` All of the household names will have started in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clubs disappearing therefore poses a risk that we could lose a whole new generation of voices from the industry . ''
The association surveyed more than 660 people working in comedy , from venue owners and stand-up performers to producers and publicists , about the impact of the coronavirus pandemic .
It found : • 49.2 % of venues think they will definitely face permanent closure without further funding or support • 45 % of workers have given serious thought to leaving comedy • 24 % have taken up work outside comedy • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government assistance , despite needing support • 73.5 % have found their mental health negatively impacted by job uncertainty There are 600 comedy clubs in the UK , according to the association .
Kirby said : `` We need live comedy to be included in the distribution of this £1.57bn .
`` The concern currently is that as we have had a longstanding history of being overlooked as an art form [ for funding ] , we 're really worried at not seeing comedy listed in the press release and not being able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be included once the details are announced . ''
Kirby has met officials from the Department for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport ( DCMS ) , who told her there was no reason comedy would be actively excluded but that they were waiting for guidelines , she said .
A DCMS spokesperson told BBC News : `` This week we announced the biggest ever one-off investment in UK culture to help the industry through the coronavirus pandemic .
This funding will provide targeted support to organisations and venues across a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be set out in the coming weeks . ''
Speaking on BBC Breakfast on Tuesday , comedian Shazia Mirza said small clubs were vital for all performers who go on to play bigger venues or star on TV .
`` We 've been ignored because no money is being pumped into these small clubs , '' she said .
Fellow stand-up Kiri Pritchard-McLean warned : `` I do n't think there will be an industry to go back to .
The people giving this money do n't understand how the industry works @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have one of the best comedy circuits in the world because we have so many brilliant comedy clubs , which means you can gig several times a night and get really great at what you do .
`` If those institutions are n't being helped ... then it disappears and we stop being world leaders in this . ''
In a statement , comic Mark Watson said the British live comedy scene was `` the best and most vibrant in the world '' and `` produces work on a fraction of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or anything else '' .
He added : `` Any rescue plan for the performing arts needs to include it . ''
The government has said the grants and loans would be available to `` the performing arts and theatres , heritage , historic palaces , museums , galleries , live music and independent cinema '' .
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"The concern currently is that as we have had a longstanding history of being overlooked as an art form [for funding], we're really worried at not seeing comedy listed in the press release and not being able to get any clarity on whether we will be included once the details are announced."


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Bow crane collapse: One dead and four injured in crane collapse

A woman died and four people were injured when a crane collapsed on to houses and a block of flats which were being built in London .
The 20m ( 65ft ) crane crashed on to the development and two terrace houses in Compton Close , Bow , before 14:40 BST .
The woman was found on the first floor of one of the houses and died at the scene .
Four others were injured , including two people taken to hospital for head injuries .
The crane collapsed where a block of flats were being built in Watts Grove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A woman whose home was one of those damaged said she and her family were `` so lucky to be alive '' .
`` The way that everything fell - if my brother or sister had been in their rooms which is where it hit directly , I just can not bear to think about it , '' she said .
The woman , who asked not to be identified , described the sound of the collapse as being `` like an earthquake '' , adding that she had been left `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Another witness described `` feeling the ground shake '' when the crane collapsed .
DJ Munro , who lives nearby , said he heard `` the metal of the crane crushing against the scaffolding and then the wood crushing in the house '' .
A video posted on social media showed a terrace house with part of the roof collapsed .
Eyewitness Bridget Teirney said she believed the crane driver had escaped safely .
The crane that collapsed was being used by Swan Housing Association and NU living at the time .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living said they were `` deeply saddened by an incident that occurred at our Watts Grove development site this afternoon '' .
`` Our staff are on site to provide support to the emergency response and the investigation . ''
Jerry Swain , national officer for union Unite , said there had to be `` an urgent , full and complete investigation into the circumstances that led to this accident '' .
He added : `` The preliminary findings of which must be released in weeks , rather than months or years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are avoided in the future . ''
London Ambulance Service tweeted to say it had `` a number of crews and specialist resources '' at the scene .
LFB assistant commissioner Graham Ellis said securing the house had been a `` complex rescue operation '' .
Mr Ellis said : `` Our Urban Search and Rescue crews undertook a complex rescue operation and used specialist equipment to search the properties . ''
London 's Mayor Sadiq Khan said the collapse was `` a tragedy '' and his `` heartfelt condolences go out to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` We must ensure the lessons are learned so an accident like this never happens again , '' he added .

"The way that everything fell - if my brother or sister had been in their rooms which is where it hit directly, I just cannot bear to think about it," she said.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Burger King boss warns of UK job cuts

Burger King boss warns of UK job cuts

The boss of Burger King UK has warned that economic damage triggered by the coronavirus pandemic may push the fast food chain to permanently shut up to 10 % of its restaurants .
Those closures could lead to more than 1,600 lost jobs , Alasdair Murdoch said .
Government schemes to help the restaurant industry do not do enough to overcome the combination of fixed costs and lost sales , he said .
`` I do n't think you can ever get over the top of this problem , '' he said .
Burger King has reopened about 370 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Murdoch told the BBC 's Newscast On Wednesday , Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the government would subsidise 50 % of restaurant bills up to £10 per person in August , in an effort to jumpstart consumer spending .
Mr Murdoch said that it was an `` innovative approach '' and that Burger King expected to participate .
But despite that scheme and other government support , he said the chain could close 5 % to 10 % of its stores as a result of costs such as rent and `` taking absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead to between 800 to 1,600 job losses , he said .
The chain has more than 16,500 UK staff , he said .
`` If we can possibly avoid it , we will , '' he said .
`` We do n't want to lose any .
We try very hard not to , but one 's got to assume somewhere between 5 % and 10 % of the restaurants might not be able to survive , '' he told the BBC 's Newscast .
`` It 's not just us - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there in our industry , '' he said .
The firm has been pushing to re-negotiate rents , but he said : `` Some of these High Streets - they 're not coming back . ''
Mr Murdoch , who has previously said Burger King would withhold its payments , called rents the `` decisive issue '' .
He said he hoped the government would consider more proactive support on the matter .
He added that the government 's furloughing scheme and VAT cut for restaurants was already aimed at avoiding job losses @

"We don't want to lose any. We try very hard not to, but one's got to assume somewhere between 5% and 10% of the restaurants might not be able to survive," he told the BBC's Newscast.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: Evening update as Rishi Sunak unveils summer economic plan

Here are five things you need to know about the coronavirus outbreak this Wednesday evening .
We 'll have another update for you on Thursday morning .
Rishi Sunak is to cut VAT on hospitality as part of a £30bn plan to save jobs and limit the economic impact of coronavirus .
The government will also pay firms a £1,000 bonus for every staff member kept on for three months when the furlough scheme ends in October .
Mr Sunak also unveiled a £2.1bn `` kickstart scheme '' to create more jobs for young people and a temporary stamp duty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So how might the changes affect your finances ?
What is VAT ?
And how will the stamp duty holiday work ?
The chancellor said his measures are `` absolutely vital '' for Scotland , with many rural areas particularly benefiting from a cut to VAT for the hospitality and tourism sector .
The Scottish government welcomed parts of the announcement , but accused Mr Sunak of showing a lack of ambition by not introducing the £80bn stimulus package it had called for .
Meanwhile , the Welsh government will get an extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement .
Here are the key points from Mr Sunak 's plan - but will it be enough ?
People travelling to and from Spain will still have to go into quarantine when arriving in Scotland , Nicola Sturgeon has said .
The Scottish government has approved almost all of the `` air bridge '' travel destinations set out by UK ministers , meaning that from 10 July Scots can travel to 57 other countries without having to self-isolate on returning .
But Spain has been omitted from the list due to concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what are the UK 's travel rules and where can you visit ?
The 2020 Ryder Cup has become the latest sporting event to be postponed for a year because of the coronavirus pandemic .
The biennial golfing event between the United States and Europe was due to be held at Whistling Straits , Wisconsin on 25-27 September .
But it has now been rescheduled for 24-26 September 2021 so that it can be staged safely with spectators present .
5 .
Diners to get 50 % off bill in 'eat out to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meal out also got a welcome boost in the chancellor 's emergency plan , with diners set to get a 50 % discount off their restaurant bill during August as part of the measures to restart the economy amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The `` eat out to help out '' deal will allow people to get up to £10 off per head if they eat out between Monday and Wednesday .
Get a longer coronavirus briefing from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning , by signing up here .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Scotland and Wales are being reintroduced from 1 August .
We have five tips to get your car out of lockdown .
Find more information , advice and guides on our coronavirus page and get the latest in our live page .
What questions do you have about coronavirus ?
In some cases , 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this form to ask your question : • THE MINDFUL MIX : Soothing sounds to escape to

People travelling to and from Spain will still have to go into quarantine when arriving in Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon has said. The Scottish government has approved almost all of the "air bridge" travel destinations set out by UK ministers, meaning that from 10 July Scots can travel to 57 other countries without having to self-isolate on returning. But Spain has been omitted from the list due to concerns about the prevalence of Covid-19. So what are the UK's travel rules and where can you visit?


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: Scotland retains quarantine measures for Spanish travel

People travelling to and from Spain will still have to go into quarantine when arriving in Scotland , Nicola Sturgeon has announced .
The Scottish government has approved almost all of the `` air bridge '' travel destinations set out by UK ministers .
This means that from 10 July , Scots can travel to 57 other countries without having to self-isolate on returning .
However , Spain and Serbia have been omitted from the list due to concerns about the prevalence of Covid-19 .
The first minister said this was a `` very difficult decision '' to make , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect Scotland as far as possible from a resurgence of this virus in the weeks ahead '' .
And she warned that people should not seek to `` get around '' the restrictions by travelling via English airports , insisting that the rules `` are here for a reason '' .
• Where can I take a foreign holiday this summer ?
The UK government had set out a list of 59 countries around the world which it said now pose a `` reduced risk '' from coronavirus , and which would no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These include most countries in Europe , island nations in the Caribbean and countries further east - including Vietnam , Japan , South Korea , Hong Kong , Australia and New Zealand .
Scottish ministers - who have the final say on public health arrangements north of the border - have now approved this list , but with two exceptions .
Ms Sturgeon said the lower prevalence of the virus in Scotland meant its position was `` a bit different to that of the UK as a whole '' .
And she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conscience lift restrictions '' for people arriving from Spain or Serbia .
The first minister said this was `` the best balance we can arrive at '' , and said she hoped the situation could be updated in the near future .
The move means anyone entering Scotland from Spain or Serbia will have to go into self-isolation even if they travel via an English airport .
Spot-checks are conducted on people who are meant to be in quarantine , and fines can be levied if it is found they are not .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glasgow has an apartment in Majorca which he has not visited since October last year .
He and his family have flights to the Spanish island on 21 July - and is confident they will go through with their plans - but says he believes there is `` no need '' for a quarantine .
`` Nicola Sturgeon is getting information from scientists , but personally I think she 's trying to turn it into a Scotland-England thing , '' he said .
`` I 'm still optimistic it 'll be dropped by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's as if she just wants people to have holidays in Scotland this year .
`` But as she was saying that , my window wipers could n't keep up with the rain - the majority of people in Scotland do n't want to go on holiday in Scotland . ''
The Scottish government has targeted the effective elimination of coronavirus north of the border , and Ms Sturgeon said the importation of new cases from abroad was `` one of our biggest risk factors '' .
She said it was estimated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 28 currently have coronavirus .
She said this compared to 128 across the UK as a whole , and about 330 in Spain - a `` significantly higher prevalence '' of the virus .
She said ministers had taken a `` very difficult decision '' to omit Spain and Serbia from the list , and that the move was `` evidence-driven and motivated only by a desire to protect Scotland as far as possible '' .
Figures from VisitScotland suggest Spain is Scotland 's fifth largest market in terms of tourism visitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The first minister said she knew Scots loved travelling to Spain and that Scottish businesses welcomed many Spanish tourists , adding that the position could change `` possibly very soon '' .
Ms Sturgeon also urged Scots to have a `` staycation '' this summer rather than going on holiday abroad .
`` Remember that this is about trying to stop people getting a deadly and damaging virus and trying to minimise as far as possible any further loss of life , '' she said .
Where can I go without quarantining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are exempt from quarantine rules when they arrive in Scotland from : Andorra , Antigua and Barbuda , Aruba , Australia , Austria , Bahamas , Barbados , Belgium , Bonaire , Sint Eustatius and Saba , Croatia , Curaçao , Cyprus , Czech Republic , Denmark , Dominica , Faroe Islands , Fiji , Finland , France , French Polynesia , Germany , Greece , Greenland , Grenada , Guadeloupe , Hong Kong , Hungary , Iceland , Italy , Jamaica , Japan , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Macau , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , New Caledonia , New Zealand , Norway , Poland , Réunion , San Marino , Seychelles , South Korea , St Barthélemy , St Kitts and Nevis , St Lucia , St Pierre and Miquelon , Switzerland , Taiwan , Trinidad and Tobago , Turkey , Vatican City , Vietnam .

He and his family have flights to the Spanish island on 21 July - and is confident they will go through with their plans - but says he believes there is "no need" for a quarantine.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Is sexism behind beauty salons' continued closure?

While hairdressers around England have reopened , beauticians have had to stand back and watch , not yet allowed to see customers amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Some workers think it unfair and feel frustrated .
And to compound matters , there have also been concerns a multi billion-pound industry is being belittled by sexism .
It started at Prime Minister 's Questions a week ago , when MP William Wragg asked Boris Johnson when there might be a review of the decision to keep beauty salons closed , so enterprises in his constituency could reopen safely .
A specific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cheshire , was referenced in the question .
The prime minister replied : `` I am sure that one day I will go with my honourable friend to Lush Beauty , but it is a sad reality for many of those excellent businesses that they can not yet open in the way they want . ''
The remark drew laughter in some areas of the house .
In different quarters , though , others took a dim view , branding the jokey response sexist .
There have been claims it mocked the industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does not yet have ringing tills .
So what has it been like for workers in the sector to be unable to take customers ' money as MPs giggle on the benches ?
Catherine McVeigh runs Catherine 's Hands in Haywards Heath , West Sussex .
She said of the Commons tone : `` What does that say to the average Joe Bloggs ?
That we 're not a serious industry .
It came across as sexist . ''
She said , given pubs reopened on Saturday , sparking crowded celebratory scenes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appointment-only beauty salons still could not trade , things felt unfair .
`` It feels like as long as [ the prime minister ] can get a pint and a haircut it is ' I 'm all right Jack ' and 'do n't worry about the others ' . ''
Mrs McVeigh was not alone in her dismay .
Kate Mackintosh , who runs Love Lashes Lash Bar and Love Lash Boutique in Liverpool , said she felt upset and patronised , especially considering `` the amount the industry contributes to the economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out whether it is sexism , because 90 % of the industry is led by women , '' she said .
`` For a lot of people , it is not the vanity of getting the treatment , it is social interaction , and for some people that does affect their mental health . ''
The day after the Commons comments , the chairs of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Beauty , Aesthetics and Wellbeing , MPs Carolyn Harris and Judith Cummins , wrote to Boris Johnson , describing the laughter as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government to `` recognise that the financial ruin of the beauty industry is no laughing matter '' .
In the correspondence , the pair accused the prime minister of previously dismissing the industry as `` nail bars '' , adding that , in reality , it contributed billions annually to the UK GDP and employed more than 150,000 people in its service side .
The MPs asked : `` Were people laughing because this is an industry which women predominate ?
And is it because of the government 's perception that this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that you have failed to give any indication as to when the industry can reopen ? ''
Mr Wragg later apologised if his question came across as `` anything other than well intentioned '' , adding a letter from the National Hair and Beauty Federation thanking him for raising the issue .
Among those unable to welcome customers has been Jenna Woolliscroft , who runs Bella 's Beauty in Stoke-on-Trent .
She has also been among those left unsure what was behind the delay .
`` I ca n't really see the difference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Her frustration was that both types of enterprise would be classed as `` close contact services '' in government guidelines but were being treated differently .
Just how close is close ?
A Department for Business , Energy & Industrial Strategy spokesperson said : `` We will reopen closed beauty salons as soon as possible , once we are confident they are able to operate in a Covid-secure way .
`` This is particularly important where there can be a greater risk of transmission due to prolonged periods of face-to-face contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is that the precise type of work can put people closer to the danger zones of eyes , nose and mouth ; interaction more readily avoided in a haircut .
• Before and after : The haircuts of lockdown It is a blow to Ms Woolliscroft , who said : `` I was so prepared , I had done a risk assessment , got Covid-19 track and trace forms ready for customers to fill out ... the money I have spent on PPE , visors , masks , no-touch hand sanitizers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , like , 'no ' - I was devastated . ''
She added : `` At the moment it does feel like we 're not seen as relevant .
`` Even if they restricted some treatments , or gave us an outline that said 'you can do this , but not that ' ... but it feels like we have been completely ignored . ''
And if 'nail bars ' is a flawed perception , then back in Liverpool , Mrs Mackintosh thinks the situation raises another matter not properly perceived .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , everything apart from keeping the metre or more apart and the actual visors , things like masks , gloves , cleaning stations , continuous hand washing , those are drummed into you from day one - we do that as standard , it is nothing new to us . ''
And that precaution , she says , has meant every time she has built up for a government announcement `` I 'm left either disappointed or totally confused '' .
The BBC approached 10 Downing Street for a comment over the allegations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Department for Business , Energy & Industrial Strategy , which suggested approaching Number 10 .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

A specific site, Lush Beauty in Romiley, Cheshire, was referenced in the question. The prime minister replied: "I am sure that one day I will go with my honourable friend to Lush Beauty, but it is a sad reality for many of those excellent businesses that they cannot yet open in the way they want."


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Stamp duty holiday: How will it work?

Stamp duty holiday: How will it work?

The chancellor has announced a temporary holiday on stamp duty on the first £500,000 of all property sales in England and Northern Ireland .
The tax threshold has been temporarily raised until next March to boost the property market and help buyers struggling because of the coronavirus crisis .
The changes have come in with immediate effect .
Stamp duty is a tax paid by people buying properties , although it varies slightly across the UK .
In Scotland it is Land and Buildings Transaction Tax , while in Wales buyers pay Land Transaction Tax .
The amount handed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK , and the price of the property .
The changes to stamp duty will only apply to buyers in England and Northern Ireland .
• Stamp duty holiday : The winners and the losers • House prices 'fall for first time in eight years' The government has temporarily increased the stamp duty threshold to £500,000 for property sales in England and Northern Ireland , until 31 March 2021 , Anyone completing on a main residence costing up to £500,000 between 8 July and 31 March will not pay any stamp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only be taxed on their value above that amount .
This will save buyers as much as £15,000 , if they are buying a property of £500,000 or more .
The move is aimed at helping buyers who have taken a financial hit because of the coronavirus crisis .
It is also intended to boost a property market hit by lockdown .
According to the Halifax , house prices have fallen for four months in a row .
The average stamp duty bill will fall by £4,500 , Chancellor Rishi Sunak has suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people buying a main home this year paying no stamp duty at all .
How much stamp duty will I pay now ?
If the property purchased is your main home you wo n't pay any stamp duty on it at all if it costs £500,000 or less .
The next portion of the property 's price ( £500,001 to £925,000 ) will be taxed at 5 % , and the £575,000 after that ( £925,001 to £1.5 million ) will be taxed at 10 % The remaining amount ( over £1.5 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You can calculate how much you are liable to pay here .
Before the announcement , stamp duty in England and Northern Ireland was paid on land or property sold for £125,000 or more , while first-time buyers did not pay any stamp duty up to £300,000 .
But this stamp duty holiday replaces the first-time buyer discount .
Landlords and second home buyers are also eligible for the tax cut but will still have to pay the extra 3 % of stamp duty they were charged under the previous rules .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ last ?
This is a temporary measure designed to boost the flagging property market .
It is effective immediately and will last until 31 March next year .
However , critics worry it could encourage people who were planning to buy next year to accelerate their plans to take advantage of the tax break .
This could leading to a slump in demand when the tax break ends .
Can I still benefit if I 've already completed a purchase ?
The holiday applies from 8 July , which means anyone completing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay the full normal stamp duty .
Stamp duty is payable upon completion , so if you 've exchanged contracts and are currently waiting for completion you will be able to benefit from the change .
How much could a buyer save ?
The change will save buyers as much as £15,000 , if they are buying a property of £500,000 or more .
Before the stamp duty holiday , if you bought a house for £275,000 , for instance , the stamp duty you 'd have had to pay would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0 % duty on the first £125,000 , 2 % on the next £125,000 ( £2,500 ) , plus 5 % on the final £25,000 ( £1,250 ) .
The tax cut means anyone buying a home in Bramhall , Stockport would save £13,603 in stamp duty , based on Rightmove estimates of an average asking price of £472,053 .
What about Scotland and Wales ?
In Scotland , the rates on Land and Buildings Transaction Tax are 2 % on £145,001-£250,000 , 5 % on £250,001-£325,000 , 10 % on £325,001-£750,000 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £750,000 .
Scottish landlords pay an extra 4 % Land and Buildings Transaction Tax on top of standard rates .
In Wales , the rates on Land Transaction Tax are 3.5 % on £180,001-£250,000 , 5 % on £250,001-£400,000 , 7.5 % on £400,001-£750,000 , 10 % on £750,001-£1.5m , and 12 % on any value above £1.5m .
Welsh landlords pay an extra 3 % Land Transaction Tax on top of standard rates .
How much does stamp duty raise ?
The government 's annual take from stamp duty is around £12bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by HM Revenue and Customs ( HMRC ) .
That 's roughly equivalent to 2 % of the Treasury 's total tax take .
The nine-month stamp duty holiday will cost the Treasury an estimated £3.8bn .

Stamp duty: What is it and how much do I pay? Published 23 September 2022
Image source, Getty Images
The government has cut stamp duty tax in England and Northern Ireland for some buyers.
Stamp duty is a tax paid when you buy a property.
What are the new stamp duty rates?
The amount of stamp duty you pay depends on the cost of the property.
Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng announced the permanent changes as part of the government's mini-budget. They come into effect straight away.
The price at which stamp duty is paid was doubled from £125,000 to £250,000.
The rates are now:
0%: £0 - £250,000 (£425,000 for first time buyers)
£0 - £250,000 (£425,000 for first time buyers) 5%: £250,000 - £925,000
£250,000 - £925,000 10%: £925,000 - £1,500,000
£925,000 - £1,500,000 12%: £1,500,000+
The chancellor added that discounted stamp duty for first-time buyers will now apply to properties costing up to £625,000 - up from £500,000.
How much stamp duty will I pay?
Buyers of homes that cost less than £250,000 don't pay stamp duty. That will comfortably buy you an average terraced home in most places outside of the South East of England.
First time buyers can spend £425,000 - roughly an average flat in London - before paying stamp duty.
Spend £625,000 - perhaps a detached home somewhere like Colingham in Leeds - and you'll pay nearly £19,000.
At £1m - which could be a detached home in Shenfield at the Essex end of the Elizabeth Line - stamp duty will cost just over £41,000.
You can also use the government's Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) calculator to find out how much you have to pay.
What are rates in Scotland and Wales?
In Scotland, the current rates for the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax are:
£0-£145,000 (£175,000 for first-time buyers) = 0%
£145,001-£250,000 = 2%
£250,001-£325,000 = 5%
£325,001-£750,000 = 10%
£750,001+ = 12%
Anyone buying an additional Scottish property costing more than £40,000, including landlords and second-home owners, pays an extra 4% Land and Buildings Transaction Tax on top of standard rates.
For example, a second-time buyer purchasing a home worth £425,000 in Scotland would pay £15,850.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Estate agents say there are not enough properties coming on to the market at the moment
The current rates for Wales' Land Transaction Tax are:
£0-£180,000 = 0%
£180,001-£250,000 = 3.5%
£250,001-£400,000 = 5%
£400,001-£750,000 = 7.5%
£750,001-£1.5m = 10%
£1.5m + = 12%
Anyone buying and additional Welsh property costing more than £40,000, including landlords and second-home owners, pays an extra 4% Land Transaction Tax on top of standard rates.
When do you have to pay it?
You have 14 days to pay stamp duty from the date of completion in England and Northern Ireland.
In Scotland and Wales you have 30 days from the point of purchase.
If it takes longer, you could face a fine, or be charged interest on the duty you owe.
How do you pay it?
House buyers often pay via their solicitors, but you can also pay directly online, or by cheque or cash in many banks.
It is also possible to add stamp duty to mortgage loans and increase your debt to cover the cost of the tax but you could end up paying significantly more in interest payments.
What effect does changing stamp duty have on the housing market?
During the pandemic, the government announced a stamp duty holiday to help home buyers whose finances were affected by Covid. It meant no stamp duty was payable on the first £250,000 of a property.
It was widely thought to have stimulated the housing market and estate agents reported a surge of interest.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), UK average house prices increased by 15.5% over the year to July 2022, up from 7.8% in June 2022.
Image caption, The property market in Richmond, North Yorkshire boomed during the Covid stamp duty holiday period
However, many things may have contributed to rising house prices.
"The final closure of the stamp duty scheme at the end of September 2021 may have had no impact at all," says Nicky Stevenson, managing director at estate agents Fine and Country.
"Other factors are so much more important, namely the race for space, low supply, accidental savings [from the pandemic] and low interest rates."
How much money does stamp duty raise?
The government's annual take from stamp duty is about £14bn, according to latest HM Revenue and Customs figures.
That's roughly equivalent to 2% of the tax the Treasury collects.
What other help is there for first-time buyers?
The policy is designed to help more first-time buyers secure a home.
The scheme is available to anyone buying a home costing up to £600,000, unless it is a buy-to-let property, a second home or, in some cases, a new-build.
The Low-cost Initiative for First Time Buyers (LIFT) helps people in Scotland buy their first property either on the open market, or from a council or housing association. What is stamp duty and how much do I pay?
The Welsh government also runs various schemes to help people to buy a home.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Rishi Sunak's Summer statement: 'We've been overlooked'

Young people across the UK have had their work , studies and lives upended because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Many are working from home , while others have been furloughed or even made redundant .
There could be more than one million young workers who are without a job , if the overall UK level of unemployment goes up from the current 4 % of workers to 10 % , according to the Resolution Foundation think-tank .
On top of that , under-30s have been hardest hit by a fall in their income during lockdown as more of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did they think of Chancellor Rishi Sunak 's speech on Wednesday ?
Emma-Jayne is an apprentice chef from Dorset , earning £5 per hour .
She is one of the many workers who were furloughed in the hospitality sector .
The scheme was introduced by the government to minimise coronavirus-related job losses , and it pays 80 % of staff salaries up to £2,500 a month .
Although restaurants in England have since been allowed to reopen , Emma-Jayne has only gone back to work part-time .
• UK firms slash more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chancellor announced that firms in England will receive cash bonuses for hiring new apprentices from 1 August , Emma-Jayne feels she 's being `` overlooked '' .
`` I 've only just been able to pay my rent and bills on furlough payments , '' she says .
`` As well as the business receiving that bonus , the apprentice should get something to support them . ''
She also expressed concern about the government giving diners 50 % off their food bills in August .
`` The voucher is all well and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 , but it 's not .
`` Hospitality desperately needs a boost .
But in that same breath , the last thing any business needs is for their staff or customers to be put at risk of infection . ''
Nairn McDonald , 24 , is a full-time carer for his mum and 21-year-old brother .
He says that during lockdown they 've been shielding .
`` Now they ca n't get out , my role has changed .
I 'm also picking up prescriptions , doing more errands - so it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Costs have also been adding up .
Nairn relies on universal credit , the benefit for working-age people in the UK , which he says does n't `` really go a long way '' .
As part of his speech on Wednesday , the chancellor announced the `` kickstart '' plan , which will subsidise six-month work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on universal credit , who are at risk of long-term unemployment .
Nairn points out that it 's crucial that the scheme is `` flexible '' for carers .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be subsidised .
`` I was so happy to be the first in my family to go to university .
I wanted to get a decent job with a decent wage , but it 's not clear what 's on offer with the scheme .
`` There 's also no way that I could think of employment if the risk of bringing Covid-19 back to my household is quite high . ''
'No help for renters' Razzia Gafur , 24 , moved to London after finishing her university studies two years ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decided to isolate with her partner and his family just outside of Leeds .
`` I only packed a weekend bag , and I 've been here for three to four months now ! ''
Razzia has since asked her estate agent if she could exit the tenancy agreement , as she 's spending £700 per month on rent and bills on a property she has n't been living in .
`` They would only let me out of my tenancy if I found a replacement tenant , '' Razzia says , adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take on the flat during lockdown .
She wanted the chancellor to do more for tenants in the private rented sector .
`` To be honest , I ca n't say I 'm disappointed because I did n't expect any help from the government , '' she says .
`` It 's definitely solidified the thought that I should be looking to buy my own property , as renting has put me in a more difficult situation . ''
She adds that that government should use lockdown as an opportunity to educate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schemes that exist to help them get on the housing ladder .
Although the chancellor announced a stamp duty holiday for property sales up to £500,000 in England and Northern Ireland , first-time buyers pay no tax up to £300,000 .
'No furlough scheme extension for the arts' Georgia Barks from Peterborough has also been furloughed .
The theatre she works at has been closed since the pandemic took hold earlier this year .
While the government has announced a £1.57bn emergency support package to help protect the future of theatres , galleries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been done sooner '' , Georgia says .
`` When we all looked for entertainment during lockdown , we turned to Netflix , we turned to TV , and to theatre live-streams - we all turned to the arts . ''
Georgia believes that the chancellor should have extended the furlough scheme , which is due to finish at the end of October , covering costs for theatres which have no confirmed reopening date as of yet .
`` There are no shows for people to come see and there is a drop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see if dates get moved again .
`` It 's ridiculous to say [ theatres ] must contribute when they have no income to do so , '' she says .

There could be more than one million young workers who are without a job, if the overall UK level of unemployment goes up from the current 4% of workers to 10%, according to the Resolution Foundation think-tank.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--What is VAT and how does it work?

What is VAT and how does it work?

Chancellor Rishi Sunak is cutting the rate of value added tax ( VAT ) on hospitality and tourism from 20 % to 5 % , from 15 July 2020 to 12 January 2021 .
The cut applies to food and non-alcoholic drinks as well as accommodation and admission to attractions across the UK .
Mr Sunak said the move is to `` get the sectors moving and to protect jobs '' , but what is VAT and how does it work ?
Value added tax , or VAT , is the tax you have to pay when you buy goods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VAT in the UK is 20 % , with about half the items households spend money on subject to this rate .
There is a reduced rate of 5 % which applies to some things like children 's car seats and home energy .
When you see a price for something in a shop , any VAT will already have been added .
There are also various items for which you do not have to pay any VAT , such as most supermarket food , children 's clothing , newspapers and magazines .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Office for Budget Responsibility ( OBR ) predicted in March that VAT would raise £136.6bn in 2019-20 .
That is equivalent to around £4,800 per household and represents 16.8 % of all the money the government receives from taxes .
VAT accounts for around 6.2 % of GDP , the total value of goods and services produced in the economy .
How does this compare to other taxes ?
In 2018-19 VAT was the third biggest income generator for the UK government after income tax and national insurance contributions .
These three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government tax receipts .
How has VAT changed over time ?
The standard rate of VAT increased from 17.5 % to 20 % on 4 January 2011 .
In 2008 , following the financial crash , the government introduced a temporary cut in the rate of VAT to 15 % .
The rate cut lasted from 1 December 2008 to 31 December 2009 and cost the government £12.4bn in lost revenue .
The aim of the cut was to boost consumer spending with retailers expected to pass the reduction on to customers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the policy with then Conservative leader David Cameron calling it an `` unbelievable and expensive failure '' .
The Institute for Fiscal Studies was more supportive .
It predicted a growth in sales of about 1 % and said a VAT cut compared well with other incentives .
Measuring the overall impact proved challenging , because no-one could know what would have happened without the rate cut .
Mr Sunak 's six-month cut for hospitality and tourism is set to cost the government £4.1bn .
How does the UK compare to other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 20 % seems to be roughly in the middle when compared with European Union countries .

It lasts until 31 March 2021 (it was originally due to end on 12 January, but the period has been extended) and applies to food and non-alcoholic drinks as well as accommodation and admission to attractions across the UK.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Rapper Stormzy picks up a brush in 'give back' scheme

Imagine being a teenager and finding Stormzy in your house when you get home from school .
That ’ s @ @ @ @ @ from Croydon .
The rapper was there to help decorate his bedroom as part of @ @ @ @ @ scheme run by decorating company The Good Guys .
The musician also talked about why @ @ @ @ @ the recent Black Lives Matter protests in London : `` One thing I really want @ @ @ @ @ show what it means to be black . ''
He said the protests showed a @ @ @ @ @ ai n't some sort of trend , this is real life and this has been @ @ @ @ @ thousands of years . ''

Imagine being a teenager and finding Stormzy in your house when you get home from school.
That’s what happened to 15-year-old Ishae from Croydon.
The rapper was there to help decorate his bedroom as part of a “give back” scheme run by decorating company The Good Guys.
The musician also talked about why he'd been cheering at the recent Black Lives Matter protests in London, saying: "One thing I really want this movement to do is show what it means to be black."
He said the protests showed a real pain, adding: "This ain't some sort of trend, this is real life and this has been our reality for hundreds, thousands of years."
Film by Tarah Welsh and David Faye


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Black Lives Matter: What is systemic racism? Kids’ questions answered

What is systemic racism , are the issues in the US and UK the same , and what can we @ @ @ @ @ ?
We put children 's questions on the Black Lives Matter movement to a politician @ @ @ @ @ academic .

What is systemic racism, are the issues in the US and UK the same, and what can we do to make a difference?
We put children's questions on the Black Lives Matter movement to a politician, a historian and an academic.
Produced by Alex Dackevych in collaboration with BBC Young Reporter.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Rishi Sunak: Three things to know from chancellor's speech

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has unveiled further plans to boost the economy after the coronavirus-imposed lockdown in the UK .
The @ @ @ @ @ the things you need to know from the speech .

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has unveiled further plans to boost the economy after the coronavirus-imposed lockdown in the UK.
The BBC's Nick Eardley details the things you need to know from the speech.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: How stand-up comedians are adapting to online gigs

With many theatres and live entertainment venues in the UK still closed because of coronavirus , comedians , performers and @ @ @ @ @ platforms to survive .
The BBC has spoken to four comedians about how they 're @ @ @ @ @ . '
Listen to more stories from Newsday

With many theatres and live entertainment venues in the UK still closed because of coronavirus, comedians, performers and entertainers have taken to online platforms to survive.
The BBC has spoken to four comedians about how they're adjusting to this 'new normal.'
Video produced by Trystan Young and Daniel South
Listen to more stories from Newsday


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: The animals abandoned during lockdown

The RSPCA has voiced fears that there will be a surge in abandoned animals in the wake of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ were rescued by the RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre in Woking during lockdown .
BBC Breakfast @ @ @ @ @ got these tips for people who are struggling .

The RSPCA has voiced fears that there will be a surge in abandoned animals in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.
Penny and Storm were rescued by the RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre in Woking during lockdown.
BBC Breakfast went to meet them and got these tips for people who are struggling.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: 'If you stand by your workers, we will stand by you'

It 's been out of the headlines for the past few months , but Brexit is back on the political @ @

'If you stand by your workers, we will stand by you' Video, 00:01:27'If you stand by your workers, we will stand by you'


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Newspaper headlines: 'Meal deal chancellor' and £30bn rescue plan

It 's all `` chicken feed '' to the Daily Mirror , however , which points out the discount only @ @ @ @ @ in August .
The paper quotes unions saying the chancellor should have promised a pay @ @ @ @ @ workers earning less than £10 an hour , rather than a `` dining out discount @ @ @ @ @

The Financial Times calculates borrowing of £350bn will be needed this year to pay for it all. It predicts the deficit will balloon to twice the level seen in the aftermath of the financial crisis.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Funeral costs rise despite 'pauper' ceremonies

The cost of cremations in the UK has continued to rise despite reduced services on offer during the pandemic .
Two thirds of councils have continued with price increases of up to 16 % from last year , while limited numbers of mourners can attend shorter ceremonies to maintain social distancing .
A quarter of authorities have frozen prices , while seven have cut costs on the grounds of compassion .
One widower said a lockdown service for his wife was like a `` pauper 's funeral '' .
Councils have defended the price rises , saying those decisions were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures were introduced and that it currently costs more to run ceremonies .
One authority said the pandemic had also placed increased stress on its crematoria staff , who have had to receive extra training .
Neville Wilson 's wife Doreen died of lung cancer in March and her funeral took place during lockdown .
Only five mourners could attend under the government guidelines on social distancing .
The funeral procession was a hearse only , without floral tributes and the family had to go in their own cars .
While the service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 minutes , the fee charged by Coventry City Council was not .
`` It felt like a pauper 's funeral .
It could n't get any worse if we 'd tried .
`` I then started some investigation myself as to which councils were and which councils were n't [ freezing costs ] and I thought if some councils are doing it , why are n't Coventry council doing it ? ''
Andrew Walster , from Coventry City Council , said service times had to be cut to introduce deep cleaning in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of service slots in a day to account for the rise in deaths .
`` Unfortunately , that did n't reduce our costs of providing that service to the public , in fact it increased it , by providing those additional facilities for bereaved families , '' he said .
`` We have n't passed on those additional costs . ''
Government guidelines issued under lockdown restricted ceremonies to close family and household members only .
Yet , as of June , the average cost of a local authority cremation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £752 last financial year , according to BBC analysis .
Prices for 2020-21 range from £392 in Belfast to £995 in Worthing , West Sussex .
The past 10 years have seen costs at council facilities rise by an average of £200 above the rate of inflation .
This year , Cornwall Council increased the price of an off-peak cremation by £147 .
Campaigners say the rises can not be justified while the restrictions are in place .
Among them is Down to Earth , an organisation set up to end `` funeral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive Lindesay Mace said : `` What we 're seeing here are increases in cremation fees in the last year of as much as six , seven and even 10 % in some places .
`` Those kind of price rises are clearly beyond the means of the average person , especially when you bear in mind that incomes have n't risen by nearly as much . ''
Cornwall Council said it has offered `` a reduced fee for cremations which take place at certain times of day for several years . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ costs as an immediate measure .
`` We know funerals can be expensive and people are suffering financially so we looked at how we could help out and ease the burden , '' Oldham Council said .
The authority has cut its fees by £144 , a measure which will stay in place until September .
Cheltenham Council can not offer a video streaming service outside and only five mourners are permitted to attend a reduced `` graveside-only '' ceremony .
As a result , it dropped its prices by £490 .
Chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Crematorium Management , Julie Dunk , said councils have had to invest in environmentally friendly equipment in recent years , which has left them needing to recover costs .
Two out of the three biggest private crematoria operators , Memoria and Westerleigh , have also increased prices in 2020 .
Private firms make up around a quarter of the market share in the UK .
Westerleigh said its annual price review took place in January 2020 and it has not increased any prices `` since then , or during the Covid-19 crisis.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive help with funeral costs from the government 's Funeral Expenses Payment , although the scheme does not always cover the entire cost .
The Competition and Markets Authority is investigating the funeral industry and could recommend tighter regulation or price capping to stop above-inflation increases .
It is set to report back on its findings in 2021 , having called for an extension to the review that will take into account the effect of the pandemic .
Widower Mr Wilson said current costs were heaping extra grief on families during a difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still extremely angry .
And also so are my wife 's family , they 're very upset that they could n't attend .
I really would n't wish it on my worst enemy , '' he said .

Acting manager Lindesay Mace said: "What we're seeing here are increases in cremation fees in the last year of as much as six, seven and even 10% in some places.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Bag of Covid-19 test samples found on Highlands road

A bag of Covid-19 test samples has been found by a member of the public on a road in the @ @ @ @ @ being transported from Caithness General Hospital in Wick to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness , according @ @ @ @ @ were discovered on the A9 near Tain and handed in to the local police station @ @ @ @ @ laboratory team at Raigmore .
The health board has since launched an investigation into the @ @ @ @ @ spokesman said : `` We are investigating how this could have happened to ensure this @ @ @ @ @ would like to reassure everyone that at no point was there a danger to the @ @ @ @ @ `` They were packed properly and remained intact .
We are very grateful to the @ @ @ @ @ of samples to the police . ''

An NHS Highland spokesman said: "We are investigating how this could have happened to ensure this will not happen again and would like to reassure everyone that at no point was there a danger to the public from these samples.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus travel: GB travellers pose 'greatest Covid risk' to NI

Stormont 's health minister has been advised that travellers from the rest of the UK present `` the greatest risk '' of bringing Covid-19 into NI , BBC News NI has learnt .
The advice comes from the executive 's chief medical officer and chief scientific adviser .
Ministers will review the international travel regulations on Thursday .
Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said there would not be a quarantine between UK regions .
Mr Lewis told BBC News NI 's Evening Extra he had not seen the advice but believed it was important to protect `` the viability of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secretary of state said health teams across the UK would be `` focused on where there are outbreaks to deliver local lockdowns to protect the health of people more widely '' .
The Department of Health said it had no comment to make on the content of executive papers .
However , Health Minister Robin Swann has said decisions around travel restrictions are a matter for the NI Executive , a department spokesperson said , adding that Mr Swann wanted `` to see it resolved '' at Thursday 's meeting .
The document @ @ @ @ @ @ @ News NI , says the advice is `` based purely on risk to virus transmission and propagation of the epidemic '' .
Health measures like quarantine are set by each UK nation separately .
From Friday 10 July , passengers entering England from dozens of countries will not have to quarantine , under what are known as `` air bridges '' .
• Where can I take a foreign holiday this summer ?
• NI to bring in 14-day quarantine for travellers Northern Ireland 's current position remains that travellers arriving from outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must quarantine for 14 days , but ministers are due to review this issue on Thursday , based on a paper from Mr Swann 's department .
This latest document says that the overall UK prevalence/incidence of the virus is `` substantially greater '' than in Northern Ireland .
No decision taken yet on approach '' With regard to introducing the epidemic into Northern Ireland , travellers from the rest of the UK create by far the greatest risk , both in relative and absolute terms , '' it adds .
The advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a prevalence higher than the Republic of Ireland , using the UK government 's methodology , will have a `` somewhat increased risk of infection '' , while travellers from some of the countries `` would have at least twice the risk '' .
`` Imposing restrictions on travellers from these countries would currently have much less benefit than imposing restrictions on travellers from the rest of the UK , '' it adds .
The advice concludes that any approach adopted by Stormont would need to be `` revisited regularly '' as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is changing constantly .
The managing director of Belfast International Airport previously criticised the quarantine measures adopted by the executive as `` a stake through the heart '' of its summer trade .
On Wednesday , Graham Keddie warned hundreds of jobs could be lost if the Stormont executive does not follow England 's approach in opening up air bridges .
`` The lack of the decision is the stupid thing .
This seems to be dithering , as there is in Scotland , England 's made the decision to go ahead and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he told BBC Radio Ulster 's Stephen Nolan Show .
`` Why no decision here ?
Why are Northern Ireland 's views different from England ?
Show us the facts . ''
Mr Keddie said it was crucial that airports were able to operate fuller services as soon as possible .
In the Republic of Ireland , official government advice against all non-essential travel is to remain in place until 20 July .
The Irish government had planned to publish a `` green '' list of countries .
However , concern about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prompted health advice that those restrictions should remain in place .

The advice says that travellers from any country ranked with a prevalence higher than the Republic of Ireland, using the UK government's methodology, will have a "somewhat increased risk of infection", while travellers from some of the countries "would have at least twice the risk".


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Coronavirus: Hundreds of teaching posts to be created in Wales

Nine-hundred extra teaching posts are to be created as part of a £29m support package to help pupils catch up when they return to school .
The Welsh Government said the cash will pay for the equivalent of 600 teachers and 300 teaching assistants for a year .
It will target disadvantaged pupils and those taking exams , and could include extra coaching and learning resources .
Education Minister Kirsty Williams will later reveal whether pupils will return to full-time education in September .
The Welsh Government said newly qualified teachers and supply teachers will take up the majority of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one-year contracts .
• What Covid-19 decisions are made in Wales ?
In secondary schools , support will be focused on pupils studying for exams in Years 11 , 12 and 13 , as well as pupils of all ages who receive free schools meals , have additional learning needs or who are identified as being vulnerable .
Learning resources are promised to help new and current teachers deliver support to pupils studying for exams , which could include personalised learning programmes and additional lessons .
A range of teaching approaches will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` blended learning '' - a mix of learning from home and limited face-to-face teaching .
Details are to follow about how the money will be shared between schools , it added .
Ms Williams said the government was supporting schools in the `` recovery phase '' and would continue to raise standards .
`` This extra investment and targeted support will ensure that the impact of time away from school over recent months is minimised , '' she said .
`` This is not a short-term fix .
I am guaranteeing this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole of next year . ''
The announcement comes as Ms Williams is due to set out plans for how schools will operate in the new term .
She told a Senedd committee on Tuesday that her goal was to `` maximise '' face-to-face contact between pupils and teachers .
It suggests the minister could adopt similar plans to those proposed in other parts of the UK planning for the full-time return of pupils after the summer .
So far the government has said that blended learning would continue for some time @

In secondary schools, support will be focused on pupils studying for exams in Years 11, 12 and 13, as well as pupils of all ages who receive free schools meals, have additional learning needs or who are identified as being vulnerable.


bbcuk--2020-07-08--Manchester Arena attack inquiry: Survivors' access ruling due

Manchester Arena bombing survivors will find out later if their bid to be legally represented at a public inquiry has been successful .
In April , chairman Sir John Saunders denied survivors of the 2017 blast `` core participant '' status in hearings .
A group of more than 50 sought a judicial review to overturn the decision .
Dame Victoria Sharp and Mr Justice Garnham are due to give their decision at 09:30 BST .
The group 's lawyer Brenda Campbell QC argued the survivors `` have not been treated with importance '' and said if they did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be watching ( the inquiry ) on YouTube and not assisted to get the answers to their questions '' .
• The road to the Manchester Arena bombing Paul Greaney QC , counsel to the inquiry , said the hearings would be focused on those who died in the attack and survivors would be able to engage with the process , without having legal representation of their own .
The public inquiry into the Manchester Arena attack is due to begin on 7 September .
Dame Victoria , who is President of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Justice Garnham will publish the reasons for their decision on the judicial review at a later date .
Twenty-two people were killed and hundreds injured when Salman Abedi , 22 , detonated a suicide bomb as fans left an Ariana Grande concert at the arena on 22 May 2017 .
His younger brother , Hashem Abedi , was convicted of 22 counts of murder in March at the Old Bailey .
and is expected to be sentenced in August .
Why not follow BBC North West on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ northwest.newsonline @ bbc.co.uk

Paul Greaney QC, counsel to the inquiry, said the hearing would focus on those who died in the attack but many survivors would give evidence and they were being encouraged to raise any issues with the inquiry team.


bbcuk--2020-07-09--Coronavirus: Chancellor Rishi Sunak sorry for not being able to protect all jobs

The chancellor has said he is `` sorry '' for not helping `` everyone in exactly the way they would have wanted '' .
Rishi Sunak said the government was `` throwing everything '' at stemming job losses with a £30bn stimulus package .
But he told the BBC he will not be able to protect `` every single job '' as the UK enters a `` severe recession '' .
He also admitted that some of the £1,000 bonuses being offered to take back furloughed staff would go to firms that were already keeping workers on .
Labour has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saving jobs , saying the government will `` waste billions at a time when others are crying out for support '' .
• Chancellor gives diners 50 % off on eating out In his summer statement on Wednesday , Mr Sunak said the `` jobs retention bonus '' could cost as much as £9bn if every worker currently furloughed is kept on .
Meanwhile , it has emerged the most senior civil servant at HM Revenue and Customs did not back two of the key policies in Mr Sunak 's summer statement over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In letters to the chancellor , Jim Harra , HMRC 's permanent secretary , said advice received by HMRC `` highlights uncertainty around the value for money '' of the job Retention Bonus and Eat Out To Help Out scheme - which gives diners money off some meals in August .
Self-employed curtain fitter Mark Whittaker told BBC Breakfast he can not `` get his head round how the chancellor expects any citizen of this country to get by on zero income '' .
`` If he can manage it , please tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Whittaker said .
`` I do n't want a handout… I want parity . ''
Mr Whittaker started his own business in Stockport , Greater Manchester , towards the end of 2018 and fell short of earnings requirements to receive support during the crisis .
He said people in his situation have children , mortgages , rent and bills to pay .
Responding to Mr Whittaker 's comments , Mr Sunak said more than 2.5 million people who are self-employed will receive support from a `` generous '' scheme of government funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been able to help everyone in exactly the way they would have wanted ?
I 'm sure not and I 've said previously that we have n't been able to do that and for that I am sorry . ''
Mr Sunak warned the UK was `` entering one of the most severe recessions this country has ever seen '' .
`` If you 're asking me 'can I protect every single job ' of course the answer is no , '' he said .
`` 'Is unemployment going to rise , are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' Yes , and the scale of this is significant . ''
It comes as figures released by the Treasury reveal that public spending on the battle against coronavirus has risen to nearly £190bn .
The chancellor announced a series of measures to help the economy on Wednesday , including a VAT cut for the hospitality and tourism sectors , a bonus scheme for employers and an eating out money off scheme for August .
Mr Sunak said the £1,000 bonus being offered to businesses that keep furloughed staff in jobs until January @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost , as some employers who intend to retain workers anyway would benefit .
The Chancellor told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` Throughout this crisis I 've had decisions to make and whether to act in a broad way at scale and at speed or to act in a more targeted and nuanced way .
`` In an ideal world , you 're absolutely right , you would minimise that dead weight and do everything in incredibly targeted fashion .
`` The problem is the severity of what was happening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what was happening , and indeed the speed that it was happening at demanded a different response . ''
He said that `` without question there will be dead weight - and there has been dead weight in all of the interventions we have put in place '' .
But Labour 's shadow chief secretary to the Treasury Bridget Philipson said : `` The chancellor should be targeting support on those who need it , not handing it out aimlessly to those who do n't .
`` It 's not brave to admit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a time when others are crying out for support . ''
We are looking to speak to people who used previous unemployment schemes to get work - is that you ?
Did the 'Future Jobs Fund ' in 2009 help you get a job ?
How useful was it for you in developing your career ?
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He added: "Have we been able to help everyone in exactly the way they would have wanted? I'm sure not and I've said previously that we haven't been able to do that and for that I am sorry."


bbcuk--2020-07-09--John Lewis and Boots to cut 5,300 jobs and shut shops

Two of the UK 's biggest High Street retailers , John Lewis and Boots , have announced 5,300 job cuts .
Boots has said 4,000 jobs will go , while John Lewis is shutting down eight stores , putting 1,300 jobs at risk .
John Lewis said it had to `` secure the business 's long-term future and respond to customers ' shopping needs '' .
Boots said it was consulting on plans to restructure its head office and store teams and close 48 Boots Opticians stores .
John Lewis department stores in Birmingham and Watford will not reopen as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At Home stores in Croydon , Newbury , Swindon and Tamworth will also shut down , as will travel sites at Heathrow airport and London St Pancras .
The moves come amid warnings that new economic support plans unveiled by Chancellor Rishi Sunak on Wednesday will not be enough to stop millions of workers losing their jobs .
Mr Sunak announced measures including a one-off £1,000 payment to employers for every furloughed employee retained to the end of January 2021 .
• £1,000 bonus 'may not be enough to protect jobs' John Lewis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shops as a plunge in profits forced it to cut staff bonuses to their lowest level in almost 70 years .
It said the eight stores affected were already `` financially challenged '' even before the pandemic struck .
However , Covid-19 had caused customers to move more quickly towards online shopping and away from stores .
John Lewis Partnership chairwoman Sharon White said : `` Closing a shop is always incredibly difficult and today 's announcement will come as very sad news to customers and partners .
`` However , we believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sustainability of the partnership - and continue to meet the needs of our customers , however and wherever they want to shop . ''
Ms White said John Lewis would do everything it could to keep on as many people as possible .
The John Lewis Partnership is owned by its staff - known as partners - who usually receive a bonus each year .
This year , staff bonuses were set at 2 % , the lowest since 1953 when it paid no bonus .
Profits at the partnership dived by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the third year in a row that profits have fallen - as it continued to struggle with the slowdown in consumer spending .
Despite the chancellor 's back-to-work bonus announced on Wednesday , millions of workers could still end up out of work , analysts and unions have warned .
Unions said job losses would `` gather pace '' while economists predicted `` a rapid rise in unemployment '' .
They warned that incentives to save jobs were not large enough to persuade bosses to keep workers .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak himself has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unemployment and on job losses '' .
He told BBC Breakfast : `` Is unemployment going to rise , are people going to lose their jobs ? '
Yes , and the scale of this is significant .
`` We are entering one of the most severe recessions this country has ever seen .
That is of course going to have a significant impact on unemployment and on job losses . ''
He also told the BBC he was `` sorry '' for not helping `` everyone in exactly the way they would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be able to protect `` every single job '' .
John Lewis is the latest in a long line of companies to have made cuts during the pandemic .
Other lay-offs announced include : • Up to 5,000 job cuts at Upper Crust owner SSP Group • Up to 12,000 jobs at British Airways • Up to 700 jobs at Harrods • 550 jobs are going at Daily Mirror publisher Reach Do you work in any of the John Lewis stores which are due to close ?
How will you be affected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
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"We very much hope that when people go to their local pub or their restaurant to eat out, those are often in the centre of towns, hopefully that will encourage the footfall to those areas so we get more people going to our shops as well," Mr Dowden said, speaking after announcing the reopening of gyms, indoor pools and outdoor theatres.