bbcuk--2020-09-14--Coronavirus in Scotland: What are the latest lockdown rules?

The Scottish government has paused the next set of changes to the country 's lockdown rules and toughened some existing measures .
The reopening of indoor soft play areas , theatres and live music venues has been delayed until at least 5 October , along with the resumption of indoor contact sports for those aged 12 and over .
The rules on meeting other people have been tightened to reduce the size of gatherings .
So what are the current rules - and what else is going to change ?
What are the rules on meeting people ?
From Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a maximum of six people from two households to meet together - either indoors or outdoors .
The new regulations apply in restaurants , pubs and beer gardens , as well as in people 's homes and gardens .
If children aged under 12 are part of the two households , they will not count towards the limit of six people .
There will also be exceptions for organised sports and places of worship , and for funerals , weddings and civil partnerships .
There will be no change to the rule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ceremonies , and the same limit will now apply to wakes and receptions in regulated venues like hotels .
People should still be following the 2m distancing rules when gathering together .
Restrictions have already been tightened in Glasgow , North and South Lanarkshire , East and West Dunbartonshire , Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire , where more than 1.75 million people are being advised not to visit other households indoors .
In addition , new police powers to break up house parties with more than 15 people has been extended to cover parties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Until now , it had been possible for eight people from three different households to meet indoors and for up to 15 people from five different households to meet outdoors .
When could the next changes happen ?
A number of other changes which had originally been planned for 14 September have now been pushed back to 5 October - and will depend on the outcome of a review on 1 October .
They include reopening indoor soft play areas , theatres and indoor live music venues , and the reopening of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It also includes indoor contact sports for people aged over 12 .
Gyms , swimming pools and indoor sports courts have been allowed to reopen since 31 August .
There will be a further review on 1 October before a decision is taken on when non-essential offices and call centres can resume operations .
• Since March 23 , soft play centres have been fully closed in Scotland and the message throughout the pandemic has been `` work at home where possible '' .
What can I go out and do ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ both indoor and outdoor spaces .
They can seek an exemption from the 2m distancing rule indoors , but will have to warn customers that they are entering a 1m zone , produce revised seating plans , and take steps such as improving ventilation .
Guidance on physical distancing have to be followed , and customers have to provide their contact details .
Customers must now wear face coverings while moving around hospitality venues and when they are not eating or drinking .
It is also mandatory for staff to wear face coverings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shops and on buses , trains , trams , planes and taxis .
There are no longer restrictions on how far you can travel in Scotland .
The level of services on public transport have been scaling up , although there is still reduced capacity .
Holiday accommodation has also reopened , along with museums , galleries , cinemas , monuments and libraries .
Outdoor markets had earlier been allowed to open , along with outdoor sports courts and playgrounds , zoos and garden attractions .
Hairdressers , barbers , beauticians and nail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enhanced hygiene measures .
Professional sport has been allowed to resume behind closed doors , although fans have been allowed to attend some test events .
People of all ages have been able to take part in organised outdoor contact sports since 24 August .
Bingo halls , amusement arcades , casinos , funfairs and snooker halls were also allowed to reopen , and driving lessons could resume .
Live events such as concerts and comedy can take place outdoors , with physical distancing , enhanced hygiene and restricted audience numbers .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gradual since the start of the summer .
The new restrictions on the number of people who can gather will not result in hospitality and sports venues which are currently open - including pubs , restaurants and gyms - being closed again .
What else has changed ?
Children returned to school from 11 August , although in many areas there was a phased return over the first week .
Pupils and staff must now wear face coverings when moving about within secondary schools .
Universities and colleges can introduce a phased return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a blended model with remote teaching .
Opticians are able to carry out routine eye care services - including regular eye exams - in community optometry premises and in people 's homes .
Dentists have been able to expand their services to offer urgent treatment which involves aerosols .
Counselling services , such as drug and alcohol support groups , are now able to provide essential services .
Places of worship have reopened for communal prayer and services , although numbers are limited , singing and chanting is restricted , and those attending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Although indoor and outdoor rules are becoming tighter , worshippers are still able to gather for services with distancing and mask wearing in operation .
• IMPACT : How is the pandemic affecting life in Scotland ?
• CASES : Where are the latest cases in Scotland ?
• QUIZ : How well do you know the Covid restrictions ?
• BACK TO SCHOOL : Can a school insist on a Covid test ?
• LOCKDOWN EASING : What changes next - and when ?

Covid in Scotland: Do I still need to test and self-isolate? Published 1 July 2022
Image source, Getty Images
Covid case numbers are continuing to rise, with one in 18 Scots estimated to have had the virus in the week ending 24 June. Some experts believe this is being driven by the more infectious Omicron sub-variants BA.4 and BA.5. So what is the current guidance on Covid?
The raft of restrictions put in place over the pandemic were lifted at the beginning of May as Scotland moved into the phase of "living with Covid".
The current public health advice is to stay at home if you feel unwell or have a fever.
People are also urged to avoid contact with others if they have the symptoms of respiratory infection and a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work.
A GP should be contacted if symptoms worsen or if a person feels they can no longer manage their symptoms at home.
The legal requirement to wear face coverings in shops, hospitality venues and on public transport in Scotland came to an end on 18 April.
However, the Scottish government and health experts are still strongly advising people to continue to wear masks voluntarily in indoor settings or on public transport.
What are the symptoms of Covid now?
The officially recognised symptoms for Covid have been updated. They now include:
Fever
New continuous cough
Loss of sense of smell or taste
Shortness of breath
Unexplained tiredness
Lack of energy
Muscle aches or pains
Unusual hunger
Headaches
Sore throat
Stuffy or runny nose
Diarrhoea
Feeling sick or being sick
What is the guidance on testing?
Image source, Getty Images
Most people no longer need to test for Covid and free lateral flow home testing kits are no longer available for the general population.
Testing remains available for certain groups such as health workers, social care workers, unpaid carers, people visiting care homes or those deemed to be at high risk. PCR testing sites have closed.
People without symptoms are also no longer advised to take regular tests.
What about travelling abroad?
For those who can demonstrate they are fully-vaccinated, for instance using a vaccine passport, most European countries and the USA are now open to travel and no pre-departure Covid test is required.
If you are not fully vaccinated, you will still need a pre-departure test to travel to certain countries such as France, Spain, Portugal, Tunisia or the United Arab Emirates.
Only US citizens or people with an exemption can enter the USA if they are not fully-vaccinated.
Image source, PA Media
Some countries may accept evidence that you have recently recovered from Covid as an alternative to a vaccine certificate.
Private companies offer paid-for testing services and a choice of rapid antigen testing or PCR testing which takes a little longer to process. Travellers should check which test type is acceptable to their destination country.
The entry requirements can change at short notice, so travellers are advised to check with their airline or the Foreign Office website.
Do I still need to self isolate if I have Covid symptoms?
People who have Covid symptoms, a fever or are what the Scottish government describes as "too unwell to carry out normal activities" are being asked to stay at home until they get better.
Those under the age of 18 with mild symptoms, such as a runny nose or slight cough, who are otherwise well do not need to stay at home and can go to school, college or childcare.
People who still take Covid tests, such as NHS workers, and get a positive result will still be expected to isolate at home for five days after they take the test. Many people will no longer be infectious after this period.
Contact tracing has ended and the Protect Scotland app no longer sends alerts - although people are advised to keep it on their phones in case it is required in future.
Which rules had already changed?
Image source, PA Media
The legal requirement for businesses to take steps to reduce the spread of Covid, including physical distancing and screens, ended on 21 March.
The vaccine passport scheme - which covers nightclubs and large events - ended on 28 February.
New guidance on working from home came into effect on 31 January. This recommends that employers consider a hybrid working system, with staff spending some time in the office and some time at home.
The legal requirement to wear face coverings in certain settings, such as shops, ended on 18 April.
What is happening in the rest of the UK?
The last remaining restrictions in England were replaced by a "Living with Covid" plan.
People with Covid are no longer legally required to self-isolate, although the guidance is that those who test positive should stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days.
The government suggests wearing a mask in "crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet".
Patients are no longer required to wear masks in NHS hospitals, GP surgeries and emergency departments, unless they have suspected or confirmed Covid infection.
Masks are no longer required in shops or on public transport in Wales, or in health and social care services - although they are recommended. Lateral flow tests (LFTs) are still free until the end of July.
Legal measures have been replaced by guidance in Northern Ireland, which recommends that face masks are still worn in certain places, such as enclosed public spaces and health and social care settings.
Do you have a question about the Covid rules in Scotland? Use the form below to ask us what you want to know, and we could be in touch.
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bbcuk--2020-09-11--Coronavirus: Can I still have five friends to my house? And other questions

If you and your boyfriend both live alone and in England , you can form a support bubble , which means that you can spend as much as time as you want in each other ’ s company , inside or outside a house .
You don ’ t have to keep a 2m distance from one another , and you can stay overnight at each other ’ s house .
If you are living alone , and your partner is in a shared household ( or vice versa ) , matters get complicated .
You can still form a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also be with his household , and it would be the only bubble allowed to that household .
What this means is that if one of your boyfriend ’ s housemates has a partner who is - like you - living elsewhere and alone , that couple will be prevented from meeting up .
Support bubbles are for the benefit of people who are living alone ( or alone with children ) .
If both you and your boyfriend are living in shared households , you are not allowed to form one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and at a distance of 2m from each other .
Northern Ireland has also introduced support bubbles while Scotland and Wales now allow a similar arrangement known as `` extended households '' .
In all of these , if one person taking part develops symptoms , every member of the bubble or extended household must self-isolate .

How is the government going to protect vulnerable children who remain unvaccinated? My son has cystic fibrosis and will now be forced to mix - he has not had any access to vaccination.
Because your son is in a clinical risk group - and as long as he is over five - he should soon be offered two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. You should be contacted by your GP or specialist team to arrange this.
With regard to the dangers of mixing, the UK has also recommended that Covid vaccines are offered to all children aged 5 to 11, not just those at high clinical risk. This is likely to start in England in April. Children are generally at much lower risk of becoming seriously ill from a Covid infection, although some do still get sick and need hospital care. Over-12s can already be vaccinated, and it's hoped that extending the rollout to younger age groups will help protect even more children from the risk of catching and spreading Covid.
Schools are expected to work with and support families who have concerns about a pupil returning to the classroom. It is compulsory for school-age children to attend, even if they were previously shielding - the only exception is a small number of children whose clinician or GP has advised them not to attend. If you have concerns about this, you should talk to your doctor.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--The Papers: Tory 'rebellion' and lockdown 'blow' to health

The paper praises the government for proposing tougher penalties and says it makes `` complete sense '' to keep reckless drivers off the road for good .
But the Guardian quotes the Howard League for Penal Reform as saying that the government is abandoning the principle of redemption for the sake of a few newspaper headlines and that there is no evidence that a single victim will be saved .
It says hospital admissions for seven serious conditions including cancer and strokes were down by more than 173,000 between March and June compared with the year before .
The paper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment has been delayed , including a young mother who died .
It says `` the all-consuming focus on the pandemic '' means that some patients have been `` consigned to an early grave '' .
Meanwhile , the Daily Express reports that the charity Cancer Research UK could by forced to sack 1,500 scientists because of the impact on fundraising of the coronavirus crisis .
He and his housemates insist they invited only 25 guests - five fewer than the legal limit at the time .
The Times says the parents of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party for up to 100 people in Devizes in Wiltshire , have complained to the police watchdog .
They say that if the penalty is not waived they are prepared to take the case `` to the highest court in the land '' to establish `` whether someone can be fined for having gatecrashers '' .
The Times leads on the criticism by the Conservative MP , Geoffrey Cox , of legislation that could override the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement .
In its leader column , The Times says many fear that by lobbing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiations with the EU the government has made a deal far less likely .
A 63-year-old amateur photographer from Redditch who calls himself the `` dullest man in Britain '' is featured in the Daily Mail .

But the Guardian quotes the Howard League for Penal Reform as saying that the government is abandoning the principle of redemption for the sake of a few newspaper headlines and that there is no evidence that a single victim will be saved.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Coronavirus: Restrictions reintroduced in Belfast and Ballymena

Restrictions on visiting other households have been reintroduced in parts of Northern Ireland after a rise in cases of coronavirus .
More detail is expected this week on the localised Covid-19 restrictions , which cover Belfast , Ballymena and parts of Glenavy , Lisburn and Crumlin .
The executive said there will be penalties for breaches , but it is not clear yet what they will be .
People can not visit others in their homes , but there are some exemptions .
• Those in a social bubble with one other household • Marriage or civil partnerships where a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six people from two households in the affected areas will be allowed to gather in a private garden .
Those living in the restricted zones are being advised not to travel outside them unless it is necessary .
The measures will be in place for at least two weeks .
In the last seven days , 553 people have tested positive for Covid-19 in Northern Ireland .
• Q & A : What has and has not changed in NI lockdown ?
• Q & A : What is yet to open in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , First Minister Arlene Foster urged people living in the affected areas to `` please take action now and stop the spread of the virus '' .
`` There is a creeping of the virus across Northern Ireland and we need people to work with us to stop that , '' she stressed .
The executive said it was asking medically vulnerable and older people living in the areas affected by the new restrictions to be `` particularly careful '' and follow all public health advice .
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would also be advised to limit visitors , with one family member being allowed to visit once a week .
More frequent visits may be allowed only in `` exceptional circumstances '' , but that will be reviewed , she added .
`` We may also have to add postcodes to this as the situation develops , '' she said .
Mrs Foster said the executive needed to limit social interactions between households in order to `` push down the rising curve of infection '' in the areas with the highest rates of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged people outside of the affected areas `` not to think they are invincible or immune '' .
Some doctors in Northern Ireland said they believe a second wave of Covid-19 is `` likely '' to happen within the next six months , according to a survey .
The survey , which was conducted by the British Medical Association ( BMA ) , found that 80 % of 500 GPs and hospital consultants surveyed believe a second wave is `` likely '' or `` very likely '' to happen .
Some surveyed also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic alongside restarting routine care for patients .
Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle , Dr Tom Black , the Northern Ireland chair of the BMA , said `` the concern is we are coming into a second surge in the coming months '' .
`` There are worries about staff sicknesses and burnout , there are worries about maintaining services during the winter pressures and getting a flu vaccination programme up and running .
`` It 's a lot of pressures all coming at the one time . ''
However , Dr Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high case rates on Monday could help mitigate some of these issues .
`` It is time to batten down the hatches and be careful , '' he added .
What questions do you have about the latest restrictions ?
Let us know and a selection will be answered by a BBC journalist .
Use this form to ask your question : Meanwhile , DUP Chief Whip Sammy Wilson has claimed Health Minister Robin Swann and others had pressed for more extensive lockdown restrictions .
Mr Wilson told the BBC 's Good Morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Department of Health and if some of the ministers in the executive had had their way these restrictions would be far more severe and many businesses would be experiencing far , far greater difficulties as a result of them . ''
The East Antrim MP added : `` Other ministers wanted far , far more widespread restrictions and those were opposed by our party , and quite rightly so . ''
But Mr Swann said he would not comment on Mr Wilson 's `` bogus '' claims .
`` Our public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games with , '' he said .
Justice Minister Naomi Long said those commenting on the new measures should `` try to be more accurate in future . ''
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said it is `` deeply regrettable that in the middle of a public health crisis energies are being spent on giving misleading briefings . ''

Mr Wilson told the BBC's Good Morning Ulster programme: "If the technocrats in the Department of Health and if some of the ministers in the executive had had their way these restrictions would be far more severe and many businesses would be experiencing far, far greater difficulties as a result of them."


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Coronavirus: New rules and lockdowns 'could be too late'

New rules to curb a rise in the number of coronavirus cases could be `` shutting the door after the horse has bolted '' , an intensive care doctor has warned .
David Hepburn , from the Royal Gwent Hospital , was one of the first NHS doctors to become ill with Covid-19 .
He said he feared a second wave had already started and could last six months amid a rise in cases in Newport linked to pubs and clubs in the city .
Health Minister Vaughan Gething said closing such venues was an option .
Dr Hepburn 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctors ' greatest fear was a `` very likely '' second wave .
Speaking to BBC Radio Wales Breakfast , Dr Hepburn said there was `` definitely a sense that things are ramping up again '' , likening it to the situation in February `` before we started to get active cases in March '' .
`` It is worth emphasising there are patients in hospital in south Wales with Covid and it is only a matter of time before we start getting patients sick enough to end up with us [ in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oliver Hides .
New rules came into force in Wales on Monday , mandating the wearing of masks in shops and other indoor public spaces , and banning indoor meetings of more than six people from an extended household .
The changes come after two areas brought in new advice to avoid following Caerphilly into a local lockdown , with Wales ' First Minister Mark Drakeford warning Covid-19 was `` on the rise again '' as 20 people in 100,000 had the virus .
`` There is still time if people obey the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay apart .
We know that being outdoors is much better than being indoors , so if we have to meet up with someone you are much better doing it outdoors .
`` We can turn it around , but I have a terrible feeling now we are shutting the door after the horse has bolted , and this increased activity at the minute is going to translate into another big wave for us in critical care in the next four to six weeks , which would be a shame . ''
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ill on ventilators at the Royal Gwent Hospital 's intensive care unit in Newport - the unit 's usual maximum capacity being 14 - with Dr Hepburn comparing it with `` scenes from a science fiction film '' .
Dr Hepburn said if it was the start of a second wave it could last longer than the first wave because it was happening before the winter months when cases were expected to rise as people move indoors .
`` It was fairly acute last time - it was all over by May , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But if we see a big surge in hospital admissions this time , it could last for six months which would be a big problem . ''
He added : `` There was always going to be a natural ramping up but the question is now whether behaviour modification and whether people pulling together locally to avoid a big surge will work , and I really hope it does because I can tell you this now , I 'm really not looking forward to going through it again . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported 86 % of doctors and medical students who responded to a survey said a second peak was likely or very likely in the next six months .
`` The survey results expose the greatest fears of doctors in Wales - fears borne out of their everyday experiences of treating patients with Covid-19 and witnessing the dramatic impact of the virus on the NHS , '' said Dr David Bailey , BMA Cymru Wales council chairman .
`` As a profession , and I 'm sure as a nation , we do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw earlier in the year , where hospitals were full with Covid-19 patients , many people dying every day . ''
Also speaking to Radio Wales Breakfast on Monday , Mr Gething said he was waiting to see the results of recent testing in Newport , Rhondda Cynon Taff and Merthyr Tydfil before deciding whether local measures were needed .
In the case of Newport , Mr Gething said the Welsh Government could order pubs to close or restrict opening hours to stamp out transmission of the virus , and that he could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales , even if other parts of the UK do not .
`` I 'm prepared , as the first minister is , to make a decision just for Wales , but it is difficult for people to see different messages from different governments , '' he added .

He added: "There was always going to be a natural ramping up but the question is now whether behaviour modification and whether people pulling together locally to avoid a big surge will work, and I really hope it does because I can tell you this now, I'm really not looking forward to going through it again."


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Olivia Burt's family 'disappointed' with CPS decision

The parents of a student who died when a barrier collapsed outside a nightclub say they are `` deeply disappointed '' no-one will face criminal prosecution .
The Crown Prosecution Service ( CPS ) announced it had decided against pressing manslaughter charges against any people or the club .
Ms Burt , from Hampshire , was in her first year reading natural sciences at Durham University .
The CPS said it had also reviewed its decision not to prosecute and upheld its original view .
It considered charges of manslaughter by gross negligence against the individual suspects and charges of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burt 's parents Nigel and Paula Burt said : `` Clearly we are deeply disappointed that after such a lengthy investigation , lasting more than two-and-a-half years , this decision has been reached .
`` We hope that there will now be a thorough and independent investigation into whether any health and safety offences have been committed . ''
The CPS said it had considered the evidence provided by the police and judged the legal test for bringing a prosecution had not been met .
A spokesman said : `` We understand how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family and have provided them with a detailed explanation of the decision . ''
Ms Burt , who was a member of the British sailing team , grew up in Milford-on-Sea and had been head girl of Bournemouth School for Girls .
Her parents have set up a charity , Olivia Inspires , in her memory to help disadvantaged children from the New Forest area .
An inquest into her death is yet to be concluded .

"We hope that there will now be a thorough and independent investigation into whether any health and safety offences have been committed."


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Brexit: Internal Market Bill clears first hurdle in Commons

A proposed law giving Boris Johnson 's government the power to override parts of the Brexit agreement with the EU has passed its first hurdle in the Commons .
MPs backed the Internal Market Bill by 340 votes to 263 .
Ministers say it contains vital safeguards to protect Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK , if negotiations on a future trade deal break down .
But critics , including a number of Tory MPs , warned it risks damaging the UK by breaching international law .
Although the government has a majority of 80 in the Commons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coming weeks as the legislation receives detailed scrutiny .
Several prominent Conservatives , including former Chancellor Sajid Javid , have said they could not support the final bill unless it is amended , with a number expected to have abstained in Monday 's vote .
Sir Roger Gale , the Tory MP for North Thanet in Kent , told the BBC 's Newsnight he had voted against the bill as a `` matter of principle '' to uphold international law .
• How could the Northern Ireland Brexit deal change ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' I think that this is damaging our international reputation for honest and straight-dealing at a time when we are about to embark on a series of trade negotiations .
I took a view that you fight this tooth and nail at every step . ''
He suggested other colleagues were `` holding their fire '' until later in the bill 's passage , with a group led by ex-minister Sir Bob Neill pressing for a `` parliamentary lock '' on the government 's ability to exercise the powers .
`` I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tiny minority .
I think that may change next Tuesday , '' he added .
The bill is designed to enable goods and services to flow freely across England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland when the UK leaves the EU 's single market and customs union on 1 January .
But , controversially , it gives the government the power to change aspects of the EU withdrawal agreement , a legally-binding deal governing the terms of the UK 's exit from the EU earlier this year .
Ministers say this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interprets the agreement , in particular the Northern Ireland Protocol designed to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland , in an `` extreme and unreasonable '' way .
Boris Johnson 's government has a hefty majority .
It was never going to lose Monday night 's vote in the Commons .
Downing Street calculates that most of the public wo n't pay that much attention to yet more Westminster argy-bargy about the Brexit process .
In turn , many Tory MPs are sure that the wrangling over the UK Internal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their constituents .
And where it does , they would much more likely take the side of the government taking a tough line with the EU than share the concerns of former prime ministers or august lawyers foaming about the government 's behaviour .
And yet - first off , to state the obvious , opposition from former occupants of No 10 , former chancellors and former cabinet ministers is not exactly a sign of peace and harmony .
But the resistance to No 10 goes beyond the usual suspects this time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ claimed the EU 's current approach could lead to excessive checks and even tariffs on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland .
He said the bill would ensure the UK 's `` economic and political integrity '' , accusing the EU of making unfair demands to `` exert leverage '' in the trade talks - including a threat to block food exports .
But ministers also said they would listen to concerns , insisting that the powers being sought would only be used if other legal avenues had been exhausted and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
A government spokesman said it was vital the bill - which is expected to face stern opposition in the House of Lords - becomes law by the end of the year when EU law will cease to have effect in the UK .
`` It will protect the territorial integrity of the UK and the peace in Northern Ireland , safeguarding trade and jobs across all four corners of the UK following the end of the transition period , '' he said .
The PM also held a call with Conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday night .
Labour said the PM was reneging on a deal he himself signed earlier this year , and on which Conservative MPs campaigned in the 2019 election , and was `` trashing '' the UK 's reputation .
But the Commons also voted against a Labour amendment to reject the bill entirely by 349 votes to 213 .
MPs will now begin detailed scrutiny of the bill on Tuesday with Conservative MPs seeking further assurances that the UK will not betray its treaty obligations .

"I think that this is damaging our international reputation for honest and straight-dealing at a time when we are about to embark on a series of trade negotiations. I took a view that you fight this tooth and nail at every step."


bbcuk--2020-09-14--'Soaring alcohol misuse' could overwhelm service

Addiction services in England could struggle to cope with `` soaring '' numbers of people misusing alcohol , the Royal College of Psychiatrists is warning .
Many adults are drinking more since the coronavirus pandemic began , data shows .
The college estimates that in June , more than 8.4m people in England were drinking at higher-risk levels , up from 4.8m in February .
It says deep cuts made to addiction services could mean patients will miss out on life-saving care .
The rise in risky drinking comes at a time when more people addicted to opiates are seeking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ college , referring to National Drug Treatment Monitoring System statistics showing 3,459 new adult cases in April - up 20 % from 2,947 in the same month the previous year .
• Check how much you are drinking Guidelines advise people drink no more than 14 units of alcohol ( equivalent to six large glasses of wine or six pints of beer ) a week , spreading consumption over three days or more .
Drinking too much can damage your liver and increases the risk of other health conditions such as heart disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disorder are more likely to develop serious complications if they catch Covid-19 .
The college is asking the government to invest millions more in addiction services .
Prof Julia Sinclair , chair of the college 's addictions faculty , said : `` Covid-19 has shown just how stretched , under-resourced and ill-equipped addiction services are to treat the growing numbers of vulnerable people living with this complex illness .
`` There are now only five NHS inpatient units in the country , and no resource anywhere in my region to admit people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Drug-related deaths and alcohol-related hospital admissions were already at all-time highs before Covid-19 .
I fear that unless the government acts quickly we will see these numbers rise exponentially . ''
Laura Bunt from the drug , alcohol and mental health charity We Are With You said : `` Social isolation and a lack of a human connection is a big factor behind why some people turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism , so clearly the pandemic continues to be really tough for many people .
`` When you consider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest levels of alcohol-related harms in Europe even before the lockdown in March , the need for government action now is clear . ''
If you are concerned about addiction , BBC Action Line has help and support .

Laura Bunt from the drug, alcohol and mental health charity We Are With You said: "Social isolation and a lack of a human connection is a big factor behind why some people turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism, so clearly the pandemic continues to be really tough for many people.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Coronavirus: Sir Keir Starmer to call for furlough scheme replacement

Sir Keir Starmer will call on the government to replace the furlough scheme and outlaw `` firing and re-hiring '' methods to avoid the `` scarring effect '' of `` mass unemployment '' .
Almost 10 million workers have been furloughed since March but the scheme is set to end on 31 October .
The Labour leader will address the TUC , proposing targeted support for badly-hit sectors .
The government said it was already implementing a plan to protect jobs .
• Will the furlough scheme be extended ?
• Furlough wind down : 'We prepared for the worst' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ annual conference , Sir Keir will make the case for replacing the job retention scheme - also known as the furlough scheme - which was introduce to support employers and staff during the coronavirus lockdown .
Under it , employees placed on leave due to virus restrictions have received 80 % of their pay up to a maximum of £2,500 a month .
Since September , firms have had to start making a contribution to wages as part of the scheme winding down .
The government has been reluctant to extend the furlough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it would only keep people `` in suspended animation '' .
However , Sir Keir is expected to argue that `` with a bit of imagination and acting in the national interest , a better approach is possible '' .
HIs alternative proposals include expanding part-time working and rewarding employers who give people hours rather than cut jobs ; providing training and support for those who ca n't come back full-time , and targeting sectors most in need such as retail , aviation and those hit by local lockdowns .
`` Imagine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could form a genuine national plan to protect jobs , create new ones and investing in skills and training , '' he is due to say .
`` I 'm making an open offer to the prime minister : Work with us to keep millions of people in work , work with the trade unions and work with businesses , do everything possible to protect jobs and to deliver for working people . ''
The Labour leader will also praise trade unions as `` unsung heroes '' saying : `` Without you there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no life raft for seven million people . ''
Addressing the conference on Monday , TUC leader Frances O'Grady said : `` If the government does n't act , we face a tsunami of job losses . ''
• Why is the unemployment rate close to a 40-year low ?
• How could the recession affect me ?
During his speech , Sir Keir will also urge the government to outlaw `` fire and re-hire '' practices whereby companies sack employees but then hire them back on worst pay and conditions .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tactics punish good employers , hit working people hard and harm our economy . ''
A Treasury spokesman said : `` We already have a national plan to not only protect jobs , but to create new ones - and we are implementing it right now .
`` Thousands of young people will take their first steps into work through our £2bn Kickstart scheme this autumn and our up to £9bn Job Retention Bonus will help companies bring those on furlough back to work . ''

She said there would be "sectors that take longer to come back" from the pandemic, adding: "I don't think this government is afraid of supporting where we can [and we] have fiscal events where the chancellor can start to look at that."


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Teenager stabbed to death in Islington

Teenager stabbed to death in Islington

A teenager has died after being stabbed in north London .
The Met Police said officers were called at 20:00 @ @ @ @ @ male was found suffering from stab wounds on North Road , Islington .
The force @ @ @ @ @ medics at the scene but was pronounced dead .
A police cordon is in place @ @ @ @ @ .
No arrests have been made in connection with the stabbing and officers are working @ @ @ @ @ next of kin .

A police cordon is in place and an investigation has begun. No arrests have been made in connection with the stabbing and officers are working to identify the victim's next of kin.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Unison: Care workers who made £4 an hour awarded in £100,000 court case

The government should guarantee that care workers are paid fairly , the UK 's largest union has demanded .
Unison 's statement comes on the heels of a legal victory it helped win for homecare workers in north London .
General secretary Dave Prentis said : `` It 's time the skills and experience of care staff were respected instead of them being underpaid and undervalued . ''
A government spokesperson said it was `` clear '' that care workers must be paid at least the national minimum wage .
Companies contracted by Haringey Council were found to have breached @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than £4 per hour .
A court awarded the carers more than £100,000 in backdated earnings following an employment tribunal ruling .
Care service companies , Kaamil Education Limited , Diligent Care Services Limited and Premier Carewaiting Limited say they inherited the case when they took over the work contract from care provider , Sevacare .
The court found that when the employees were working with Sevacare , they should have been paid for travel time spent moving between patient visits during their working day .
The firms who took over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• Self-isolating care workers 'to have wages topped up' • Care homes ask for insurance cost help • From working in retail to becoming a carer When travel time was not paid , some carers worked up to 14 hours a day , but the average hourly pay recorded on their payslips was well below the legal minimum hourly rate .
The 10 claimants will receive an average settlement of £10,000 each , after a four-year legal battle .
The judgement said that travelling and waiting time of up to an hour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
Mr Prentis said : `` This is a major victory for these dedicated workers who dared take on their employers .
`` These are the very same care staff who were applauded during the lockdown .
They should n't have to work in a system that breeds such awful treatment , '' he added .
Jess ( not her real name ) also heralded the victory as `` great news and a big win '' .
She still works for one of the firms and told the BBC that the outcome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She hopes that the precedent set by the union 's case would help others like her .
However , she says that she still struggles on low wages .
`` They were all clapping for us , but now it 's all gone back to normal .
And I think that is very bad .
We work so hard , '' she says .
`` It is difficult to make ends meet '' , Jess adds .
Any unexpected expenses push her over the edge and it takes longer to recover financially .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ court case , she had gone to Parliament to testify about their working conditions and was told she was doing a `` fantastic job '' .
Jess says that politicians `` only tell you what you want to hear '' .
She adds : `` I 've been here for ten years and it 's not easy . ''
A Local Government Association spokesperson told the BBC : `` We will consider this ruling carefully to assess any implications for local authorities '' .
They added : `` Before the pandemic , adult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of almost £4bn by 2025 .
`` Social care needs parity of esteem with the NHS , backed up by a genuine , long-term and sustainable funding settlement , which councils have been calling for long before the current crisis . ''
More than one million people work in social care and the majority , 83 % are female , according to figures from the Resolution Foundation .
A study the think tank did in April 2020 found that more than half of workers are paid less than the voluntary living wage and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a zero-hours contract .
Jess will remain in her job , but hopes things will change .
`` Some of us , we can do more than key worker work , but we are doing it for a purpose .
To give back .
Some of my patients were key workers themselves . ''
She says it is time for the government to show care workers their support .
`` Pay us some proper wages , so that we can feed our kids and pay our bills , '' says Jess .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson said : `` We are very clear that social care workers must be paid at least the national minimum wage , with those over 25 earning at least the national living wage , and they should be paid for the time spent caring for clients , travelling to appointments and waiting for them to start .
`` We know there is a need for a long-term solution for social care and are looking at a range of proposals as part of our commitment to bringing forward a plan that puts the sector @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "We are very clear that social care workers must be paid at least the national minimum wage, with those over 25 earning at least the national living wage, and they should be paid for the time spent caring for clients, travelling to appointments and waiting for them to start.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Mental-health team 'failed son' before shooting

A man whose son shot his neighbour dead then fatally crashed his motorbike says the NHS failed to act on warnings he had severe paranoid schizophrenia .
Alex Sartain , 34 , shot James Nash , 42 , in the head with a homemade shotgun , outside his home in Upper Enham , near Andover , Hants , on 5 August .
And John Sartain says mental-health services had failed to act when he asked for his son to be sectioned .
Southern Health said it was `` reviewing its contact '' with the Sartain family .
Two hours after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by police , Sartain crashed his 1,000cc motorbike on a country lane .
Mr Nash , a well-known artist , children 's author and parish councillor , died in hospital in the early hours of 8 August .
John Sartain said his son had deteriorated into a state of extreme paranoia during the weeks and months before the attack .
And he had warned the crisis team he needed urgent help .
He said : `` They said , 'No , we ca n't do anything unless he 's committed a crime or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' `` Within two weeks , he has taken a life .
`` I just could n't believe it really .
`` But that 's what they said - nothing they can do .
`` I just find that hard to believe that , you know , after being sectioned twice . ''
John , who runs a vintage-motorcycle repair business from the home he shared with Alex , said the mental-health team 's failure to act on his warning had meant he had been left alone to try to manage his son @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would just go and stand out there ranting and raving about people who had tortured him , '' he said .
`` It was always Nasa , Boeing , the FBI - and they were all spying on him .
`` Never ever in my wildest dreams would I imagine he was going to do something like he has done , ever .
`` He was n't a cold-blooded killer - it was a mental-health problem . ''
John also said his son had been let down by the lack of community care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most recent in-patient stint , last December .
And during the only recent visit a community mental-health team member had made to their home , she had not actually seen Alex .
`` She did n't ask to see him or anything , just my opinion of it , '' John said .
`` And I said , 'Well , you know he 's gone back to how he was . '
`` She said , 'Oh , well , that 's sort of about normal , ' and that was all .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ let down and angry with all of it . ''
The latest NHS independent investigations annual report , covering 2018-19 , shows there were 111 killings by people receiving mental-health services in England , accounting for one-sixth of the total homicides .
And it uncovered a series of failings in the care of mental-health patients in the run-up to these incidents , including poor risk assessments , community care and communication with families .
A Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust spokesman said in response to the Sartain family 's complaints : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this tragic incident .
`` And our thoughts are with family members at such a difficult time .
`` What happened is currently the subject of investigations by the police , the Independent Police Complaints Commission ( IPCC ) and will be heard by a coroner at an inquest in due course .
`` The trust is fully co-operating with these investigations .
`` And we are reviewing our own contact with Mr Sartain and his family . ''
The government has pledged an extra £2.3bn a year in additional mental-health funding by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intended to spend £975m a year of that transforming community mental-health care .
An official added : `` Each case is a tragedy for the families involved , though these remain extremely rare events with millions of mental-health patients safely receiving expert care each year .
`` Psychiatrists and care providers are committed to learning from all independent investigations , with an annual report published just a few weeks ago with key recommendations for action . ''
File on 4 's Mental Disorder and killings that could have been prevented is on BBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at 20:00 and available afterwards on BBC Sounds .

John, who runs a vintage-motorcycle repair business from the home he shared with Alex, said the mental-health team's failure to act on his warning had meant he had been left alone to try to manage his son as his condition worsened.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Coronavirus: Safety guidance issued for Jewish festivals

The government has issued highly detailed dos and don'ts for the UK Jewish community as it celebrates its most important festivals of the year .
Rosh Hashanah , Yom Kippur and Sukkot normally involve packed synagogues and large family gatherings .
This year , synagogues will have to ensure social distancing and avoid communal prayer shawls and books .
The person blowing the shofar ( ram 's horn ) for Rosh Hashanah should keep 2m from other worshippers .
Beginning on Friday , the three-week period known as the Days of Awe is the central feature of the Jewish religious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be impossible this year .
A long checklist makes clear that synagogues can be used as long as Covid secure measures are in place .
• What are the changes to places of worship ?
• What is the future of religious worship in the UK ?
But communal prayer books and prayer shawls , normally strewn around the synagogue , must be removed with worshippers told to bring their own prayer books .
Microphones should be used where possible , though these would normally be unacceptable in orthodox synagogues .
Mask-wearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mix in groups of more than six in line with the new limits on social gatherings .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• SCHOOLS : What will happen if children catch coronavirus ?
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• YOUR QUESTIONS : We answer your queries The guidance acknowledges that the `` rule of six '' will have a particular impact on the tradition of hospitality around Sukkot - the Feast of Tabernacles , which marks the end of harvest and commemorates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 October to 9 October this year , the festival normally involves constructing `` sukkah '' the little shelter many Jews build in their gardens to eat in during the eight-day Succot festival .
Normally guests would be invited and crammed inside , but now the limit is six people - unless the social bubble is bigger than that .
Sharing food or cutlery is out , as are social gatherings in a communal sukkah and `` sukkah crawls '' across the community .
A central feature of Rosh Hashanah - the Jewish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the shofar , a musical instrument made from a ram 's horn that may present a risk for a virus spread through droplets .
To reduce the risk , the guidance says the shofar blower must be at least 2m from anyone else , and it should not be blown towards anyone .
There is also detailed guidance for a ceremony known as Tashlich , where on Rosh Hashanah worshippers go to a body of moving water like a river and figuratively throw away their sins .
As well as the rule of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says items used during the ceremony should not be shared , such as prayer books or the breadcrumbs that some worshippers cast on the water .
Meanwhile , the Prince of Wales has been appointed patron of a Jewish youth organisation as it celebrates in 125th year .
Neil Martin , chief executive of the JLGB ( Jewish Lads ' and Girls ' Brigade ) , said it is an `` absolute honour '' and praised the prince as `` a tremendous believer in the power of young people '' .

As well as the rule of six and social distancing, the guidance says items used during the ceremony should not be shared, such as prayer books or the breadcrumbs that some worshippers cast on the water.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Teacher 'overwhelmed' since Who Wants To Be A Millionaire win

A teacher who became the first person to win the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire jackpot in 14 years said he was `` overwhelmed '' by the response .
`` I did n't expect the tsunami of interest , '' Don Fear , from Telford , said , adding people had `` fallen over themselves '' to congratulate him .
Former pupil and pub quiz mate Patrick Campbell told the BBC he was `` in tears '' when Mr Fear claimed his £1m prize .
He and Mr Campbell , 33 , have been doing weekly quizzes at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years .
`` Don was my history teacher , myself and a few school friends set up a pub quiz and we kept in touch with him on Facebook and various things .
`` We knew what a clever man he was so we invited him to join , '' he said .
Mr Campbell said watching his former teacher was `` so surreal '' - `` I could tell from the look of his eye he was confident he knew the answer '' .
`` That winning moment , I was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man he is , we 're all so thrilled for him . ''
Mr Fear returned to his school - Haberdashers ' Adams Grammar school in Newport - after the show aired on Friday but has since announced he will retire at the end of term in December .
The history and politics teacher said students and staff were clapping and cheering him as he went in and that `` quite a few pupils are trying to tap me up for a tenner '' .
After a 33-year career , Mr Fear said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but hopes `` a new career as a travel guide is on the cards '' , with Canada first on his wish-list .
`` And then really it 's a case of you name the place and I want to go there . ''

The history and politics teacher said students and staff were clapping and cheering him as he went in and that "quite a few pupils are trying to tap me up for a tenner".


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Kidbrooke lorry crash: Driver dead and child critical

A man has died and an 11-year-old boy is in a life-threatening condition after a lorry crashed into a house in south-east London .
Emergency services were called to Broad Walk , Kidbrooke , at 08:05 BST , where six people had been injured in the crash .
LFB said the crash had also caused structural damage to a house in Woolacombe Road .
Station commander Nathan Hobson said : `` It was a challenging incident and it appears that a lorry collided with two cars and crashed into a house .
`` Specialist urban search and rescue crews attended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free the lorry driver but sadly he was pronounced dead at the scene . ''
A neighbour , who wished to remain anonymous , said the scene was `` utterly tragic '' after the lorry crashed just 30 metres from his home .
He added : `` I was preparing for the school run , all [ of a ] sudden police , ambulance siren , helicopter sound went on .
`` Local traffic was controlled by police , then I heard people are talking about a lorry crashed into a house ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an ] air ambulance .
`` It 's utterly tragic - my thoughts are with their loved ones . ''
Another neighbour , who also asked not to be named , described the crash as `` sounding like an earthquake '' .
LAS said six patients were treated for injuries at the scene .
A spokesman added : `` Unfortunately , one patient was found to have died at the scene .
`` Of the remaining five patients , we took three to hospital and two were discharged at the scene . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was flown by air ambulance to a major trauma centre in London .
The Met Police said the two men who were taken to hospital had been told their injuries were neither life-threatening nor life-changing .
Officers are still trying to find the driver 's next of kin and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course .

The Met Police said the two men who were taken to hospital had been told their injuries were neither life-threatening nor life-changing.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Heads warn of teacher shortages without Covid tests

Schools in England are being `` severely hampered '' by delays in Covid tests for teachers , say head teachers .
Jules White , organiser of the WorthLess ?
network of over 5,000 heads , says there is growing frustration at the lack of access to testing .
This means teachers have to isolate and that `` serious staff shortages '' could force partial closures in school .
But a government spokeswoman said `` testing capacity is the highest it has ever been '' .
Mr White , a West Sussex head teacher whose group grew out of a school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to warn of disruption from delays in Covid testing .
He warns that efforts to get pupils back for the autumn term are being seriously undermined by a `` test and trace system that is simply not working effectively enough '' .
The group of head teachers , across 75 local authorities , warns that schools are struggling to cope with teachers not being able to get quickly tested for Covid-19 and find out whether they can get back to the classroom .
• Isolating teachers are still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home to isolate after Covid case The head teachers say this is leaving staff in isolation and `` out of action '' .
The letter warns that schools need to help pupils catch up and get ready for exams next year - and instead the lack of staff could mean even more lost lesson time .
They also warn this uncertainty about Covid cases could be further compounded by seasonal `` coughs and colds '' - and that urgent action is needed on testing , rather than `` vague promises '' .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now seeing teachers and support staff being unable to attend work because they can not get a test or the results from it are far too slow , '' said Mr White .
`` Time after time , schools are doing their utmost to support the national effort and time after time , we are left confounded by a lack of effective support from government . ''
Tehmina Hashmi , head of Bradford Academy in West Yorkshire , who is supporting the letter , warns of the confusion facing her school community over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Bradford , '' she says , with parents reporting they can not get Covid tests .
Ms Hashmi says after working hard to get the school ready through the summer , there is great `` frustration '' at what she says has been `` inept leadership '' over Covid testing .
Last week Geoff Barton , leader of the ASCL head teachers ' union , said teachers were struggling to get tests locally and were being directed to testing sites hundreds of miles away .
An academy trust leader has called for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help schools facing Covid cases among pupils or staff - as more schools are going to face disruption .
Steve Chalke , chief executive of the Oasis academy trust , said that several of the trust 's school have already had to send home year groups , affecting about 1,200 pupils .
He says that Covid testing needed to be available on the school site and results needed to be turned around quickly - and that eventually there would need to be routine , daily testing .
Mr Chalke argued that it would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a planned rota system , with pupils switching between school and online learning at home , rather than having a `` rotation system by default '' each time a case was discovered .
He is also calling for a more `` credible '' approach to how next year 's exam season will operate in a fair way and wants a big increase in the pupil premium , which provides schools with extra funding for disadvantaged pupils .
A government spokeswoman said that testing levels have increased - `` but we are seeing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vital that children and school staff only get a test if they develop coronavirus symptoms '' .
`` If a positive case is confirmed in a school , swift action is being taken to ask those who have been in close contact to self-isolate , and Public Health England 's local health protection teams continue to support and advise schools in this situation , '' said the government spokeswoman .
`` Children who are self-isolating will receive remote education .
We will continue to work with schools to ensure all appropriate steps are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''

"It is beyond frustration that we are now seeing teachers and support staff being unable to attend work because they cannot get a test or the results from it are far too slow," said Mr White.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Diversity's Ashley Banjo says Britain's Got Talent critics are 'the minority'

Diversity star Ashley Banjo has said the dance troupe have received `` hundreds of thousands '' of messages of support after their performance on Britain 's Got Talent last week .
The Black Lives Matter-inspired routine has attracted more than 21,000 complaints to media regulator Ofcom .
Banjo , who is also a BGT judge , said : `` Trust me .
I 'm right in the centre of it .
The negativity is the minority ... '' We stand by every single decision we made with that performance . ''
Ofcom is now weighing up whether to launch an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a white performer kneeling on Banjo 's neck , a reference to George Floyd 's death in police custody , and dancers dressed as riot police .
It also featured themes about the coronavirus pandemic , poverty and capitalism .
Critics complained that ITV 's prime-time Saturday night entertainment show was an inappropriate platform for a political statement .
The number of complaints stood at 21,673 on Monday , Ofcom said .
But Banjo explained that it was meant to be `` a round-up of an extraordinary year '' , and to `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2020 .
`` It was layered , '' he said on Instagram .
`` It was something we wanted to bring to the stage to give people hope , but also not to shy away from the difficult conversations and the difficult issues that have arisen this year . ''
Banjo said the support , in the form of `` hundreds of thousands of messages , comments , DMs and just interactions in the street '' , had been `` overwhelming '' .
But he said the routine had also sparked `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he posted a series of examples of the racist abuse he has received on social media .
He had received `` everything from racial abuse to threats to some really nasty stuff '' , he told followers .
`` A lot of the negativity and the nastiness and the racism shows exactly why this performance was needed , and exactly why this conversation that has now arisen from it is necessary .
Racism is very real .
I knew it before , and I definitely know it now . ''
He said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' with the argument that BGT was the wrong platform for their message .
`` If an artist and a creative ca n't use real-world human issues - like universal issues - to inspire their art and to come through in how they express , then what 's the point ? ''
he said .
`` Britain 's Got Talent has been a stage for so many incredible performances and artists and talents to express all different kinds of emotions and views and stories .
Human ones .
Of course political ideas are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stories because it affects us every single day . ''
He added : `` The bit that has really seemed to connect with people and agitate , annoy and offend some people is the fact that we stood up and we said that racism is real , and as far as we 're concerned has to change and will not be tolerated , because black lives matter .
`` A lot of people were offended at the political nature of that statement , but that 's never what we intended .
Black lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or affiliated with any one set of people . ''
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

He said he "just can't get on board" with the argument that BGT was the wrong platform for their message. "If an artist and a creative can't use real-world human issues - like universal issues - to inspire their art and to come through in how they express, then what's the point?" he said.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Coronavirus: Will the furlough scheme be extended?

Since March , more than 10 million people have been placed on the furlough scheme , which pays the wages of those who can not work because of the pandemic .
Can I be made redundant while on furlough ?
If a worker loses their job and is entitled to redundancy pay , this should be calculated based on their pre-furlough wages .
New laws have been brought in to enforce this , after a `` minority '' of firms were found to be calculating redundancy pay based on furlough .
What is furlough and why was it introduced ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay National Insurance and pension contributions for their staff , and they now have to pay 10 % of the wages of furloughed workers .
Can I work if I 've been furloughed ?
When the scheme began , furloughed staff were n't able to do any work for their employer .
However , they can now be brought back to work on a part-time basis .
Those still on furlough can volunteer in the community , or even for their company , as long as they are n't making them money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work for more than one firm , you can receive furlough from any of them , up to £2,500 a month per employer .
You can continue working for any that still need you or start working for a new employer , provided you are not breaching any existing contracts .
How popular has the scheme been ?
Will I still get sick pay and a bonus ?

Covid: What will happen when furlough ends? Published 30 September 2021
Image source, Getty Images
The furlough scheme, which protected millions of jobs during the pandemic, is being wound up at the end of September.
How did furlough work?
The government has been paying towards the wages of people who couldn't work, or whose employers could no longer afford to pay them, up to a monthly limit of £2,500.
At first it paid 80% of the wages, but in August and September it paid 60%, with employers paying 20%.
How many people are still on it?
The most recent figures show 1.6 million people were on furlough at the end of July - the lowest level since the start of the pandemic and 340,000 fewer than a month earlier.
Nearly one million workers were expected to still be on the scheme at the end of September, according to research by the Resolution Foundation.
The numbers have dropped as the economy reopened. In May 2020, nearly nine million people were on furlough.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, High numbers of workers in restaurants and hotels were furloughed
Will unemployment rise when it ends?
Some employers with workers on furlough may find they cannot afford to keep them on when furlough ends.
International travel, and other businesses which depend on it, are still seriously disrupted. Some furloughed workers in these areas may lose their jobs.
Many forecasters, including the Bank of England, are expecting a small rise in unemployment.
What if I'm made redundant?
If you were made redundant while on furlough, you have a number of legal rights.
The selection process must be fair, you must be given notice, and you are entitled to tax-free redundancy pay.
If you've been made redundant - or been told that you will soon be made redundant - there are three main types of financial support that you may be entitled to:
You might be able to claim a combination of these benefits.
The amount of help you get depends on your personal circumstances, including the amount of national insurance contributions you made while you were employed.
You may be entitled to extra money if you have children or are a carer, or have a disability or health condition. You may also be entitled to help with housing costs.
There is lots of free benefits guidance and advice available, including:
What has furlough cost?
The government says 11.6 million jobs have been supported by the scheme.
From March 2020 to the end of September 2021, the cost of furlough will come to about £66bn, according to estimates from the Office for Budget Responsibility.
That's a huge sum, around one fifth of the money the government has spent on the response to Covid.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, launched the furlough scheme in March 2020
However, the scheme has undoubtedly helped to save millions of jobs.
At the start of the pandemic it was feared that more than one in 10 workers would become unemployed.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--What you can and can't do under the new rules

England and Scotland have reduced the number of people allowed to meet socially to six , amid a rise in coronavirus cases .
Wales is also cutting the numbers who can meet to six - but only indoors .
What are the new rules on socialising ?
In England , the limit of up to six people from multiple households meeting up applies both indoors and outdoors , and to all ages .
So , gatherings in private homes , venues like pubs and restaurants , and in outdoor spaces like parks are all affected .
In Scotland , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can meet .
Unlike England , children under 12 - from those two households - will not be included in the total .
In Wales , it is now illegal for more than six people from an extended household to meet indoors .
Children aged 11 and under from the extended household do not count in the total .
Up to 30 people from different homes can still meet outside .
Northern Ireland has not announced any changes .
Will any social events of more than six be allowed ?
• If your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six • Protests and political events , if compliant with safety guidelines • Support groups , such as for addiction or abuse • Playing sport - either professionally or for fun Weddings , funerals and special religious occasions can go ahead with up to 30 people attending , in groups of six or less .
However , celebrations afterwards are limited to weddings or civil partnerships .
If you attend a protest , political event or other permitted outdoor event , you should attend in a group no larger than six .
Although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it is against the law to `` mingle '' with anyone outside your designated group .
• Is it safe to go to the pub ?
• Remember the R number ?
Why is it so important ?
• What are the rules on weddings ?
Can I still go to the pub or to a place of worship ?
Yes .
Pubs , restaurants , shops and other venues will remain open , and there is no limit on how many can enter them , if they comply with safety rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , each individual group can have no more than six people in it .
Venues should also allow for social distancing between groups .
Similarly , places of worship can have as many people in them as is safe to do so .
However , people can only attend in groups of six or less .
What are the rules for sports ?
You can play organised indoor and outdoor sports in groups of more than six , if the sport 's governing body has published safety guidance .
But if you play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live with , you must not play with more than six people .
So , for example , a Sunday League football match can still go ahead , but you can only have a kickabout in the park if six or less people take part .
Group exercise classes are also exempt from the rule of six , where they are being organised under Covid-secure guidelines .
Can I be fined for breaking the rules ?
The new measures mean police can break up groups larger than six .
Members of the group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow the rules .
This will be £100 for a first offence , doubling on each further offence up to £3,200 .
What is the guidance on social distancing ?
Each UK nation is advising people to stay 2m ( 6ft ) away from anyone they do n't live with .
However , there are some differences : • In England , if you ca n't stay 2m away , you can stay `` 1m plus '' apart .
The `` plus '' means doing something else to limit possible exposure - like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there are exemptions to the 2m rule in some places - like pubs and restaurants .
Children aged 11 or under do not need to social distance • In Wales , the 2m guidance reflects the fact it 's not realistic to stay that far apart somewhere like a hairdresser 's .
Primary age children in Wales are also exempt • Northern Ireland 's guidance was 1m ( 3ft ) for a time , but is now back at 2m What about shopping or public transport ?
Face coverings are compulsory on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK .
Some people are exempt , such as those with certain medical conditions and shop workers while on duty .
What if I get symptoms and have to self-isolate ?
You should self-isolate by staying at home for 10 days and arrange to get tested .
• loss of , or change in , your normal sense of taste or smell If your test is positive , you must complete the remainder of your 10-day self-isolation .
Anyone you live with should self isolate for 14 days ( from the time you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also contact people with positive results .
Do I have to social distance myself from everyone ?
Everyone except people you live with or , if you are in England , Scotland or Northern Ireland , anyone in your support bubble .
Single adults living alone or single parents with children under 18 can `` bubble '' with one other household of any size with no social distancing .
In Wales , you do not have to social distance if you are in an `` extended household '' .
• THE R @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it matters • SUPPORT BUBBLES : What are they and who can be in yours ?
• TEST AND TRACE : How does it work ?
• SCHOOLS : What will happen if children catch coronavirus ?
• TESTING : What tests are available ?

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


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Coronavirus: 18,000 test results published by mistake

The details of more than 18,000 people who tested positive for coronavirus were published online by mistake by Public Health Wales .
The health body said the data of 18,105 Welsh residents was viewable online for 20 hours on 30 August .
Most cases gave initials , date of birth , geographical area and sex , meaning the risk of identification was low , Public Health Wales ( PHW ) said .
However 1,928 people in living in communal settings were more at risk .
Nursing home residents or those living in supported housing also had the name of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk , while still considered low , was higher .
The incident was the result of `` individual human error '' when the information was uploaded to a public server searchable by anyone using the site .
PHW said the information had been viewed 56 times before it was removed but there was no evidence so far that the data had been misused .
What is Public Health Wales doing about the data breach ?
Chief executive Tracey Cooper told BBC Wales the failure was one of the `` biggest data breaches '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` should never have happened '' .
Dr Cooper also said Public Health Wales could have acted more quickly in removing the information .
The person who was alerted to the breach on the evening of 30 August after the information was posted at 14:00 that day did not follow the body 's serious incident reporting procedures .
The data was not removed until 09:55 the next morning .
Finding out why is part of the terms of reference of an external investigation which will be carried out by NHS Wales Informatics Service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken it down quicker , '' she said .
The team that `` takes data protection responsibilities extremely seriously '' was `` devastated that this has happened '' , Ms Cooper said .
`` I ca n't apologise enough because on this occasion we failed . ''
Dr Cooper said she was not considering resigning , saying : `` I 'm the person who is accountable and as chief executive that 's where the buck stops .
`` I want to get to the bottom of it so I 'm not at this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' PHW said it had already taken steps , including making sure any data uploads were now undertaken by a senior team member .
What has the reaction been ?
Welsh Conservative spokesman on health , Andrew RT Davies MS , said : `` I acknowledge that the risk is considered to be 'low ' , but I 'm not sure that that will be much comfort to the nearly 2,000 residents of care homes or other enclosed settings whose - albeit limited - information was posted along with their place of residence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have sat on this for two weeks and done a press conference earlier today without disclosing this significant failing - and that 's unacceptable . ''
His Plaid Cymru counterpart , Rhun ap Iorwerth MS , said : `` Any data breach is serious , and this data breach including potential means of identifying patients is of serious concern .
`` Public Health Wales and the Welsh Government have to be able to explain how exactly this happened , and give assurances that this ca n't happen again . ''
The Information Commissioner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Welsh Government have been informed .
The ICO said it would be making inquires following the alert .
This is the second time a part of the Welsh NHS has had to refer itself to the ICO over a data breach during the pandemic .
In April , NHS Wales Informatics Services - the health service 's IT arm - contacted the watchdog after 13,000 shielding letters were sent to the wrong addresses .
Anyone concerned that their data or that of a close family member could have been published can get advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government said it was a matter for Public Health Wales .

Welsh Conservative spokesman on health, Andrew RT Davies MS, said: "I acknowledge that the risk is considered to be 'low', but I'm not sure that that will be much comfort to the nearly 2,000 residents of care homes or other enclosed settings whose - albeit limited - information was posted along with their place of residence.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Chief scientist 'told off' for lockdown plea

The government 's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance has said he was rebuked for arguing strongly in favour of imposing Covid lockdown restrictions earlier this year , it has emerged .
In an email uncovered by a BBC Freedom of Information request , Sir Patrick reveals he was given a `` telling off '' from other senior officials .
Some scientists argue lives could have been saved had a lockdown been introduced earlier .
The government insists there was `` no delay '' .
In a statement , the Department of Health and Social Care said government policy had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world-renowned scientists '' .
• Did herd immunity change the course of the outbreak ?
The UK has one of the highest number of coronavirus deaths per capita in the world , though officials insist it 's too early to draw accurate comparisons with other countries .
The Department for Health and Social Care insists there was no delay in locking down .
The email obtained by the BBC appears to be a discussion of a Sunday Times article in May criticising the delays in announcing a lockdown in March .
It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' occurred , but speaking to Parliament 's science and technology committee in July , Sir Patrick referred to advice given by the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) on 16 March for `` additional social-distancing measures '' to be implemented `` as soon as possible '' .
A full lockdown was not introduced until 23 March .
It 's now thought the number of cases rose dramatically in the period just before that .
In the email , Sir Patrick writes that he `` argued stronger than anyone for action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ telling off '' from chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and the then Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwill .
Sir Patrick and Prof Whitty regularly appeared at news conferences together updating the public on measures taken to combat coronavirus , without noticeably disagreeing .
On 16 March , the government issued advice `` against all unnecessary social contact with others and unnecessary travel '' including warnings to avoid pubs , bars and restaurants .
However , premises were not ordered to close until 20 March , whilst on 23 March a full lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the home for exercise or grocery shopping .
• TASTE AND SMELL : How are they connected ?
• COVID-19 AND FOOD : How has lockdown changed what we eat ?

The UK has one of the highest number of coronavirus deaths per capita in the world, though officials insist it's too early to draw accurate comparisons with other countries. The Department for Health and Social Care insists there was no delay in locking down.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Great British Bake Off: 2020 contestants revealed

A Samaritan , a student and a pantomime producer are just three of the contestants hoping to win this year 's Great British Bake Off .
The show will return to Channel 4 on 22 September after filming was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic .
This year 's line-up consists of 12 contestants - one fewer than the baker 's dozen who competed last year .
Matt Lucas will replace Sandi Toksvig as host , joining the returning Noel Fielding .
Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith will be on hand to judge the best bakes in the famous white @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April , but coronavirus restrictions meant the filming schedule had to be rewritten , and the series will reach screens a month later than usual .
The show is normally filmed over three months , largely at weekends .
However , this year the producers asked the contestants to take six weeks off work and stay in a secure filming location .
`` Everything was complicated , everything was different , but everybody wanted to do it , '' executive producer Kieran Smith told the Radio Times .
Down Hall Hotel in Essex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ base , housing the production team , bakers , hosts , judges , hotel staff and cleaners all together , with extra temporary accommodation set up in the car park .
• Dave is a 30-year-old armoured guard from Hampshire .
He likes to get his bake on once a week while listening to punk rock music , and has a penchant for pretzels and baguettes .
When he 's not baking , Dave 's other interests include cars and taking his dog and cat for a walk .
Dave said he met @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of filming and realised that `` he was as nervous as I was '' .
• Accountant Hermine was born and raised in Benin , west Africa , and moved to London in 2001 to study .
The French influence in the country has instilled a love of high-end patisserie in the 39-year-old .
Her laugh is described as `` infectious '' .
• Laura , 31 , is a digital manager from Gravesend , Kent .
She specialises in decoration , and thinks her organised nature will lend itself to the show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performing and watching - and is also a volunteer for the Samaritans .
• Retirement living team leader Linda , from East Sussex , discovered her passion for baking during her frequent childhood visits to her aunt 's dairy farm .
To this day , the 61-year-old buys home-grown produce from another aunt 's fruit farm and uses it to bake it her signature sausage rolls .
• Loriea is a diagnostic radiographer from Durham .
The 27-year-old uses baking as a means to celebrate her Caribbean roots .
She moved to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but began baking as a kid with her grandmother .
Her husband especially loves her Jamaican patties .
• Pantomime producer Lottie says baking is in her blood , and when she was little she watched cooking shows rather than playing with her toys .
The 31-year-old from West Sussex describes herself as `` a perpetually frustrated perfectionist '' .
• Makbul is a 51-year-old accountant from Greater Manchester .
The self-taught baker first took on cooking at home as a means to help support his mum .
He has a remarkable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and enjoys making traditional Asian nankhatai biscuits .
• Bronze resin sculptor Marc lost his leg in a motorbike accident in 2016 , which led him to baking bread as a form of therapy .
The 51-year-old from Leicester , who now lives in Cornwall , is a single parent and decided to enter Bake Off to show his daughters that one can overcome life 's obstacles .
• Mark is 32-year-old public health project worker from Northern Ireland , who now lives in Liverpool .
He fell in love with baking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which he visited every day while at university .
His style is influenced by his Irish heritage , but also by the flavours of Africa and Asia , which he travels to regularly for his job .
• Accounting and finance student Peter grew up feasting on his mum 's home cooking in Edinburgh .
But it was actually Bake Off that inspired the 20-year-old badminton international to start baking for himself .
He 's likes to include Scottish ingredients like berries , whisky , oats and honey whenever he can .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a music teacher .
He calls his baking style ostentatious but , he hopes , tasteful .
The fitness enthusiast enjoys decorating his bakes with flowers ( preferably edible ones ) using what is in bloom in his garden .
• Last but not least , pharmacy dispenser Sura grew up with influences from Turkey , Iraq , Iran , Syria and India in her heritage .
The 31-year-old lives in London with her husband and grandmother , and loves experimenting with ingredients and flavours from around the world .
The show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Off : an Extra Slice - presented by Jo Brand - begins on channel 4 on Friday 18 September .
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

The show is normally filmed over three months, largely at weekends. However, this year the producers asked the contestants to take six weeks off work and stay in a secure filming location.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--When changing a light bulb is a really big deal

`` There is something you ca n't replace with an LED , '' says Eileen Peters .
But she 's not talking about the ambience in her home .
Mrs Peters is referring to the 176-year-old St John 's Point lighthouse on the County Down coast in Northern Ireland - which is earmarked to have its old filament light source replaced with a more modern LED .
She and fellow filament enthusiasts argue that , however subtle , any change to the light is an unacceptable assault on heritage .
In recent years , lighthouse authorities in the UK and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ installed in lighthouses .
Part of this work has involved switching filaments over to industrial-sized LEDs , which engineers say use less energy and are easier to maintain .
In most cases , hardly anyone has noticed the change .
But in County Down , a battle has been brewing for five years .
One set of proposals for changes to St John 's Point has already been vetoed by the local council , following protests by campaigners .
`` We just want to preserve a thing of beauty , '' says Mrs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and boat owners who sail from the nearby village harbours of Ardglass and Killough .
`` They actually love that light .
I 'm not exaggerating - they feel very strongly about it . ''
Out of 65 lighthouses around the island of Ireland , there are just a handful left that have not been switched over to LEDs .
One is St John 's Point .
The lighthouse authority responsible for St John 's Point is the Commissioners of Irish Lights ( CIL ) .
Around the rest of the British Isles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trinity House and the Northern Lighthouse Board , have also been carrying out upgrades .
• Why are there so few black tech entrepreneurs ?
Some 125 lighthouses and other structures in Scotland and the Isle of Man , out of a total of more than 350 , have had LEDs fitted by the Northern Lighthouse Board .
And about 20 out of 66 lighthouses around England , Wales , the Channel Islands and Gibraltar managed by Trinity House have been modernised so far , according to a spokesman .
Two or three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Engineers have tried to appeal to traditionalists to some degree .
`` I relate to the locals who say that they want to make sure that the new solution looks and feels like their one , '' says Esko Sorva , product manager at Finnish firm Sabik Marine , one of a few companies that manufacture LEDs for lighthouses and similar structures .
`` There 's something magical and emotional about old lighthouses , '' he adds .
A research team working for Trinity House and two other lighthouse authorities developed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is designed to slot into the old Fresnel lens enclosure , a 19th Century invention that creates a far-reaching beam .
The system is intended to replicate as closely as possible the colour and character of the old filament-based light source .
The LED unit has huge fins to disperse heat from the high-powered LEDs at the centre of the structure and costs around €20,000 ( £18,000 ; $ 24,000 ) , depending on configuration , according to Sabik , one of two companies licensed to make and sell the LED units .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ devices in a traditional lighthouse in Helsinki .
`` The locals did n't notice any difference , '' says Mr Sorva .
The CIL 's latest proposals for St John 's Point , shortly to be filed , seek to retain the existing sweeping beam emitted by the lighthouse , says Robert McCabe , the authority 's director of operations and navigational services .
The LED - like the one offered by Sabik - is now to be incorporated into a new rotating mechanism , preserving the beam , he says .
Alas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is anathema .
They say the beam will not project as far out to sea and it will also probably have a slightly different colour and character in various weather conditions .
`` It is a challenge still to convince those people , '' admits Capt McCabe .
One reason for the LED installations is that the old filament light sources are becoming harder to repair and replace .
But some lighthouse authorities are also seeking to rely more heavily on renewables , says Capt McCabe .
The more efficient LEDs can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and use batteries , rather than diesel generators , as back-up power sources .
But could the old technology not be kept in place at one or two lighthouses for the sake of local communities who want to preserve the light the way it is ?
`` The small things do make a difference , '' insists Capt McCabe .
`` Having our aids to navigation powered by renewable energy sources is a really strong message and we 'd be really committed to it for that reason . ''
Another key benefit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ length of service , says Paul Briggs , programme manager at Trinity House .
From 1,000 hours of operational use with an incandescent light , LEDs offer 50-100,000 hours instead , he explains .
If and when LEDs are installed , Mr Briggs and his colleagues will also carry out a wider modernisation programme at the lighthouse in question - from improving power systems , installing solar panels or servicing mechanical structures in the building .
`` It is true that sometimes we 'll upgrade a lighthouse and the characteristic of the light @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , the history of Trinity House stretches back more than half a millennium .
For Mr Briggs , changes to lighthouses have come and gone as the tides - if not quite as frequently .
`` You go back to when lighthouses were first thought of and you had a bonfire essentially on a stick and that was your light .
`` LED technology is the next step , if you like , to providing what we think is the very best service… in terms of an aid to navigation for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes suggested by the CIL in County Down do n't have any intention of backing down , however .
Mrs Peters says she and her companions are keen to keep pressure on the local council in order to ensure St John 's Point is left exactly as it is , without an LED in sight .
`` We 're determined to win , '' she says .

One reason for the LED installations is that the old filament light sources are becoming harder to repair and replace. But some lighthouse authorities are also seeking to rely more heavily on renewables, says Capt McCabe. The more efficient LEDs can be powered via solar panels, for instance, and use batteries, rather than diesel generators, as back-up power sources.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Brexit: What is a third country?

Brexit: What is a third country?

The UK government says the EU is threatening to prevent food being sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland .
But the EU says it is not considering any kind of food blockade , as negotiations on the post-Brexit relationship continue .
So , what 's going on ?
What is third country listing ?
The UK and the EU are coming to a crucial moment in their post-Brexit trade talks and the stakes are high .
The row about food comes after the UK defended its Internal Market Bill , which has been heavily criticised as it would override @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached with the EU .
Some of the claims and counter claims should be taken with a pinch of salt .
But part of the current row is about third country listing .
A `` third country '' basically refers to any country outside the EU , and in this case outside its economic structures - the single market and the customs union .
Businesses in a third country have to fill in customs declarations , for example , when they import from and export to the EU - whether there is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could the Northern Ireland Brexit deal change ?
• What do I need to know about Brexit now ?
A simple guide • How many trade deals has the UK done ?
The EU also has a formal list of third countries that are approved for food imports - that 's what third country listing means .
It 's mainly about sanitary rules for products of animal origin , and making sure they meet the basic standard for sale in the single market .
The UK government says the EU is threatening not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ list .
And because the terms of the EU withdrawal agreement mean Northern Ireland will stay within the rules of the EU single market , but the rest of the UK will not , that could in theory prevent food being sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland .
The EU says it is not refusing to put the UK on the third country list .
Instead , it says , it is simply waiting to find out what the UK 's import and export rules will be , before it makes a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make those rules clear ?
The government says its position is already clear .
At the moment UK rules are exactly the same as EU rules because we are still in the single market .
And that , as the UK negotiator David Frost has said on social media , will remain the case on 1 January 2021 .
But the EU says it wants to know what the UK 's future plans are - whether it intends , for example , to water down some of the strict food safety standards that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says that is asking for a bigger commitment than the EU demands from other third countries .
They are put on the approved list on the understanding that they will notify the EU of any future change in food standards .
So , it 's a bit of a stand-off .
Could this really lead to a food blockade ?
That seems highly unlikely .
For one thing , the Northern Ireland protocol contains safeguard measures which allow either side to act if the application of the protocol is causing `` serious economic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Secondly , the EU really does n't want to deny the UK third country status , because so many of its companies trade in food with the UK .
So , both sides seem to be using this issue as leverage to try to get what they want , and to justify their negotiating positions .
What 's it got to do with the Internal Market Bill ?
Apart from the fact that it is all wrapped up in issues arising from the Northern Ireland protocol , not very much .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reference to trade from Great Britain to Northern Ireland , and it has nothing to do with the trade in products of animal origin .
The issues on which the UK government says it is prepared to break international law in a `` very specific and limited way '' are rather different .
They involve the need for Northern Ireland businesses to fill out online export declarations when they send goods to Great Britain , and the need for the UK to follow EU state aid rules ( on subsidies for business ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These are commitments which were made in the withdrawal agreement , which the government now wants to change .
It 's also possible that there could be more changes to come .
The upcoming finance bill may allow ministers to decide unilaterally which goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland are `` at risk '' of being exported to the EU and should therefore have tariffs , or taxes on imports , imposed on them .
That too would breach the agreement made with the EU .
The government says it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if the EU refuses to talk sensibly about trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland .
And there are some fairly fundamental principles at stake - for the UK protecting the union , and for the EU protecting the single market .
But another way to look at this is that both sides are taking a tough approach as post-Brexit trade talks come to a head .
And that should n't really surprise anyone .
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It's also possible that there could be more changes to come. The upcoming finance bill may allow ministers to decide unilaterally which goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland are "at risk" of being exported to the EU and should therefore have tariffs, or taxes on imports, imposed on them.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Spot the difference: John Boyega gets ad change apology

British perfume brand Jo Malone London has issued an apology to John Boyega for dropping an ad he made for @ @ @ @ @ a Chinese actor .
The firm reshot the personal video the Star Wars actor made @ @ @ @ @ of London , for the Chinese market .

British perfume brand Jo Malone London has issued an apology to John Boyega for dropping an ad he made for them and replacing him with a Chinese actor.
The firm reshot the personal video the Star Wars actor made, in his home town of London, for the Chinese market.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Ship with no crew to sail across the Atlantic

A full-size , fully-autonomous research ship is to make one of the world 's first autonomous transatlantic voyages .
Promare @ @ @ @ @ organisation , has worked with IBM , the University of Plymouth and other scientific organisations @ @ @ @ @ Ship ( MAS ) .
Launching from Plymouth in the UK on 16 September 2020 @ @ @ @ @ to Plymouth , Massachusetts , after spending six months gathering data about the state of @ @ @ @ @ crew on board , Andy Stanford-Clark , chief technology officer for IBM in the UK @ @ @ @ @ 'captain ' will plot the ship 's course .

A full-size, fully-autonomous research ship is to make one of the world's first autonomous transatlantic voyages.
Promare, a non-profit marine research organisation, has worked with IBM, a global consortium of partners and scientific organisations to build the Mayflower Autonomous Ship (MAS).
Launching from Plymouth in the UK on 16 September 2020, the ship will travel to Plymouth, Massachusetts, after spending six months gathering data about the state of the ocean.
With no crew on board, Andy Stanford-Clark, chief technology officer for IBM in the UK, explains how an AI 'captain' will plot the ship's course.
Video by Jennifer Green, interview by Ania Lichtarowicz and Gareth Mitchell.
Listen to BBC Digital Planet for more on this story.


bbcuk--2020-09-14--Miliband to Johnson: 'He hasn't read the bill'

A proposed law giving Boris Johnson 's government the power to override parts of the Brexit agreement with the EU @ @ @ @ @ in the Commons .
MPs backed the Internal Market Bill by 340 votes to 263 @ @ @ @ @ before the vote , Labour 's Ed Miliband criticised the bill , saying the UK @ @ @ @ @ deal the prime minister himself had signed earlier this year .
Boris Johnson described the @ @ @ @ @ ' , and said that any move to use them would require a vote .

A proposed law giving Boris Johnson's government the power to override parts of the Brexit agreement with the EU has passed its first hurdle in the Commons.
MPs backed the Internal Market Bill by 340 votes to 263.
During a heated debate before the vote, Labour's Ed Miliband criticised the bill, saying the UK was backing away from a deal the prime minister himself had signed earlier this year.
Boris Johnson described the powers as an 'insurance policy', and said that any move to use them would require a vote.