bbcuk--2020-07-24--Free speech row over new hate crime bill in Scotland

A public consultation has closed on changes to Scotland 's hate crime laws , which opponents say could have a damaging effect on free speech .
Ministers argue the bill offers great protection for victims at a time when the number of cases is on the rise .
Scottish Labour 's James Kelly said he had 'serious reservations ' , especially over the offence of stirring up hatred .
But Scotland 's justice secretary said people 's freedom of expression was not under attack .
As you are reading this news story on the BBC news website I am going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe that freedom of expression is a fundamental human right .
And that you think without the right to free speech many other freedoms may be threatened ?
You would probably also agree that it is wrong actively attempt to stir up hatred against people based on their religion , gender or sexual orientation , with the possibly violent consequences such behaviour can inspire .
If you agree with all of the above you may feel a little sympathy for the Scottish government and its attempts to update the nation 's hate crime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has accompanied the plans to make it a criminal offence to `` stir up hatred '' against anyone based on their age , disability , religion , sexual orientation or transgender identity .
It is quite an achievement for the government to have united the Catholic Church and the National Secular Society in opposition to the plans - along with academics , playwrights and newspaper columnists who all say they fear the proposed legislation could pose a threat to their freedom of speech .
Opponents claim that , if passed in parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the dock , facing a seven-year prison sentence for saying what she thinks about trans rights .
Comedians could become too frightened to dare make a joke about `` a Scotsman , an Englishman and an Irishman '' walking into a bar .
While the minister responsible for the bill says that free speech is not unfettered right at the moment and that this legislation will extend protection to minority and vulnerable groups against being targeted for hatred .
Is it possible to be on both sides of this argument ?
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Agreeing with the aims of both the proponents and the opponents of the hate crime bill .
No-one is suggesting the government is deliberately intending to stifle free speech .
But many fear that could be the result if the bill is passed as currently drafted .
The public were invited to make their views known to the Scottish parliament 's justice committee before midnight on 24 July .
The government says it is prepared to consider making changes to the bill before it is finally passed by parliament .
Amanda Millar , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said it was right that laws provide a clear message that hatred should have no place in our society .
`` However , we have significant reservations regarding a number of the bill 's provisions and the lack of clarity , which could in effect lead to restrictions in freedom of expression , one of the foundations of a democratic society .
`` We have real concerns that certain behaviour , views expressed or even an actor 's performance , which might well be deemed insulting or offensive , could result in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bill as currently drafted . ''
Scottish Labour criticised the offence of stirring up hatred and accused ministers of failing to learn the lessons of the repealed Offensive Behaviour at Football Act .
The party 's justice spokesman James Kelly said there is `` a significant divergence '' from similar law in England and Wales where intent is required for a person to be criminalised for behaviour which another finds insulting .
He added : `` Under the current proposals , the law here would not require this intent to be present @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and could result in the criminalisation of expressions of religious views . ''
The Scottish government said freedom of expression provisions in the bill made clear that criticism of religious beliefs or practices is not , in itself , conduct that constitutes a criminal offence .
It also said that for one of the new offences of stirring up hatred to be committed , behaviour must be threatening or abusive , with an intent to stir up hatred or a likelihood that hatred will be stirred up .
It said insulting behaviour did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hatred offences being proposed .
Scotland 's justice secretary said the bill would include clauses to make it `` absolutely explicit that people 's freedom of expression is not under attack '' .
Humza Yousaf told BBC Scotland : `` I do n't accept that this curtails free speech at all .
Free speech in itself is never an unfettered right .
`` We do n't accept that people can go on speaking tours , saying that women should be raped and children should be kidnapped - we just do n't accept that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` What this does is create a protection for , particularly minority groups and vulnerable groups in our society , against being targeted for hatred and being targets for hatred . ''
Mr Yousaf added that the bill set the bar `` very high '' as anything deemed threatening or abusive and likely to stir up hatred must be proved beyond reasonable doubt .
The Hate Crime Bill follows an independent review by judge Lord Bracadale , in which he recommended that age and gender should be added to hate crime legislation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the basis of : disability ; race ( and related characteristics ) ; religion ; sexual orientation and transgender identity .
The new bill adds age to the list and would allow gender to be added at a later date .
A standalone offence of misogynistic harassment is also being looked at .
• More hate crimes being reported in Scotland Last month official figures revealed all categories of hate crime in Scotland are increasing .
Racial crime is the most common reported hate crime , accounting for 3,038 charges in 2019-20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % on the previous year , although still 33 % lower than the peak recorded in 2011-12 .
Mr Yousaf said the Scottish government was determined to work towards creating `` zero tolerance '' of hate crime .

As you are reading this news story on the BBC news website I am going to hazard a guess that you probably believe that freedom of expression is a fundamental human right. And that you think without the right to free speech many other freedoms may be threatened?


bbcuk--2020-07-24--Noah Donohoe: Coroner appeals for 'inaccurate and baseless rumours' to stop

A Belfast coroner has appealed for `` inaccurate and baseless rumours '' about the disappearance and death of 14-year-old schoolboy Noah Donohoe to stop .
The Belfast teenager went missing on 21 June .
His body was found in a storm drain in north Belfast six days later .
A post-mortem examination found he died as a result of drowning .
During a preliminary hearing ahead of the full inquest , Joe McCrisken said police investigations are ongoing and asked for an end to online speculation .
Mr McCrisken stressed the post-mortem examination findings are preliminary and that a full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the concern of the communities in the light of Noah 's disappearance and death , and the desire for further information .
`` I am asking that speculation cease from today , '' he said .
Noah 's mother Fiona and aunt Niamh attended the hearing at Laganside Courts in Belfast .
In the days after his disappearance , hundreds of people turned out to search for him .
There has been much speculation around his disappearance in the month that has passed and the coroner addressed that .
He said he could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those `` baseless and inaccurate rumours '' .
He said officers investigating Noah 's death have compiled video footage of his journey from south Belfast to the north of the city and that Noah is not seen interacting with anyone else on this journey .
Mr McCrisken said Noah was seen to fall from his bicycle on the Shore Road close to the Grove Leisure Centre .
He said the bag containing his laptop was found by a member of the public on York Street and his phone was also discovered on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public .
Mr McCrisken added there is no evidence linking Noah 's death to the death of any other individual .
The coroner confirmed that Noah was seen on Northwood Road without any clothes .
His hoodie and shoes have been recovered but a specific appeal has been made for anyone who may know the whereabouts of other items of clothing to contact police , the coroner 's service , KRW law or Relatives for Justice .
Those items are : Noah 's green coat ; grey Primark-labelled shorts ; white underwear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skull on the front .
Mr McCrisken said : `` I want to make it clear that the residents of Northwood Crescent , Northwood Road and surrounding areas have at all times assisted police with their enquiries and assisted the community rescue service and police in their search for Noah . ''
None of the preliminary post-mortem examination results were revealed in court .
The family 's solicitor Niall Murphy told the coroner that they hoped the proceedings would `` provide the opportunity to ask , and have answered , all questions in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further that all lines of enquiry will be exhausted '' .
He also appealed for residents in the area of Skegoneill Avenue , Loughview Terrace , Northwood Drive , Northwood Crescent and Northwood Road to review and secure any private CCTV for the 21 June around 6pm and bring it to the police , the coroner or Noah 's representatives .
`` Noah 's family take this opportunity to thank all those who assisted in the search for Noah , and for the thoughts and prayers which have been offered which have provided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a living nightmare , '' he said .
The full inquest will take place in January 2021 .

"Noah's family take this opportunity to thank all those who assisted in the search for Noah, and for the thoughts and prayers which have been offered which have provided a modicum of comfort in what has been a living nightmare," he said.


bbcuk--2020-07-24--Coronavirus: Campsites in Wales reopen with strict regulations

Holidaymakers can once again carry on camping in Wales - but it wo n't be as you remember it .
From Saturday sites with shared facilities are allowed to open , with strict rules and regulations , having missed most of the high season .
Businesses said they had been inundated with inquiries but it would not make up for lost trade during lockdown .
There had also been the expense of deep cleaning , adding social distancing and reducing pitch numbers , some said .
Wales ' First Minister Mark Drakeford warned holidaymakers they `` must get used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
`` It 's the responsibility of all of us to follow these new rules so we can keep ourselves and our loved ones safe , '' he said .
The British Holiday and Home Parks Association said it expected almost all of the 1,322 sites in Wales that offer shared facilities to open .
And Philippa George , who chairs the Forum for South East Wales Tourism , estimated 97 % would be welcoming visitors .
`` It 's been very hard , because all these businesses that have not been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season , '' she said .
There is less than two months of that left .
`` It pretty well dries up in September , that is one of the quietest months in the season , '' said Ms George .
The cost of adding measures to conform to coronavirus regulations was `` quite expensive '' , she said .
Ms George worried sites would be driven out of business .
`` That is three winters of no income for some people , '' she said .
`` It has been extremely serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will help .
`` Across tourism we need to look at these businesses otherwise we are going to lose some . ''
Ms George , who runs Heritage Coast Camping , in Monknash , Vale of Glamorgan , said : `` I 'm only going to be effectively open for August and September , so income is reduced massively . ''
Since the announcement sites would be allowed to reopen , her phone has been ringing off the hook .
`` It has been ringing from half-seven to half-11 at night , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who ring , I 've been discussing with them what we are doing to protect them and their safety .
`` Without exception they have enjoyed that discussion and welcomed it . ''
Heritage Coast Camping is not opening until 31 July as it is not ready yet .
`` With shared facilities it is difficult because you are talking about showers , toilets , washing up rooms , '' Ms George said .
To maintain social distancing this means no more than two people at a time can use them .
Sharon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which also accepts tents and is opening on Saturday .
She said : `` We have been able to open a fortnight now with the caravans on site , where customers are using their own facilities , which has given us a bit of a trial run .
`` We have screens in reception and hand sanitisers and social distancing and we have spent a great deal of time deep cleaning .
`` The level of interest has been overwhelming . ''
It was `` frustrating '' sites were banned from opening in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adding : `` Our customers have been going to England . ''
Some of her customers have been visiting for years , she said : `` It 's been very lonely without them , very quiet . ''
Roger Thomas , who runs the Three Golden Cups campsite a few miles away in Southerndown , said trade was normally weather dependent .
`` If the weather is dreadful people tend not to come , '' he said .
`` But this year the demand is so pent up I expect they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caravanning Club said in Wales sites at Bala , Rhandirmwyn , Cardigan Bay and Wyeside were open .
But only Wyeside will be open with shared facilities from Saturday .
`` It 's great for campsites across Wales to be able to open their shared facilities , such as toilet blocks , as this will mean tent-campers and campervanners can now pitch up alongside caravans and motorhomes , which have self-contained washrooms , '' a spokesman said .
British Holiday and Home Parks Association boss Ros Pritchard said : `` We are hoping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campers on Saturday . ''

She said: "We have been able to open a fortnight now with the caravans on site, where customers are using their own facilities, which has given us a bit of a trial run.


bbcuk--2020-07-24--Camden boy's toy gun arrest leaves mother 'petrified'

A mother was petrified for her family 's lives when armed police raided her London home late at night to arrest her son , 12 , who was seen with a toy gun .
Mina Agyepong , 42 , was asleep when officers with dogs broke in and aimed weapons at her and her children .
Her son Kai had roused suspicions of a passer-by who said they saw a `` black male holding a firearm on the sofa '' , in Medburn Street , Camden .
The Met Police confirmed only a `` toy bb gun '' was found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` At about 12:00 I woke up to a commotion outside , barking dogs and shouting , '' Ms Agyepong told the BBC .
`` Kai had opened the door and was being arrested .
About ten armed police officers were aiming their rifles at me and my girls and shouting for us to put our hands up .
`` I saw there were red dots on my daughters ' heads and I started to get really scared .
I honestly believed if the officers got alarmed in anyway , they would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get out of the house with our hands up and Kai was taken away .
I was petrified for my kids lives . ''
The gun seen by the passer-by through the family 's window was later confirmed to be a plastic pellet gun .
`` A male in the property was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and taken into a police van outside the house , '' a Met Police spokesman said .
`` A search was conducted and officers found an item which was identified as a toy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
However , an internal review did not `` identify any misconduct issues '' but a `` mandatory referral '' to the Independent Office for Police Complaints had been made , the force confirmed .
However , Ms Agyepong said she complained to the Met about its `` zero-to-a-hundred '' response .
Kai , a Year 7 pupil at Maria Fidelis Catholic School , was eventually `` de-arrested '' and allowed back into his home but his mother said the ordeal has left him shaken .
`` He 's too afraid to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But I 'm more concerned of how it will affect him as he gets older .
How will he see the police when he 's a teenager ? ''
`` If we live in a world where children can face being shot by police for having a toy gun , which are not illegal , then something is not right '' , she said .
`` This is London , not America . ''

"If we live in a world where children can face being shot by police for having a toy gun, which are not illegal, then something is not right", she said.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Coronavirus: UK advises against non-essential travel to Spanish islands

The UK has updated its advice against all non-essential travel to Spain to include the Balearic and Canary Islands following a rise in coronavirus cases .
Foreign Office guidance was changed on Monday to include both mainland Spain and islands such as Ibiza and Tenerife .
Holiday firm Jet2 has told passengers not to go to the airport after cancelling flights to all Spanish destinations on Tuesday .
The change is in addition to the self-isolation policy that began on Sunday .
• What are the UK travel quarantine rules ?
• Spain travel rules : What are my rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for clarity from travel companies and as airlines announced sweeping flight cancellations .
Jet2 said it will not be operating flights to Tenerife , Fuerteventura , Gran Canaria , Lanzarote , Majorca , Menorca and Ibiza , or to mainland Spain , but will be running a schedule of flights back from those destinations on Tuesday .
Holiday operator Tui , meanwhile , said it would cancel all its packages to the Balearic and Canary Islands until 31 July and to mainland Spain until 9 August .
Travellers returning to the UK from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 14 days at a registered address .
A Foreign Office spokesman said : `` We have considered the overall situation for British nationals travelling to and from the Balearic and Canary Islands , including the impact of the requirement to self-isolate on return to the UK , and concluded that we should advise British nationals against all non-essential travel to the whole of Spain . ''
Speaking earlier , Boris Johnson 's official spokesman warned `` no travel is risk-free during this pandemic '' .
The rate of infection in Spain is 35.1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK is at 14.7 , according to the latest figures from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control .
Data up to 19 July suggested there were lower rates of infection in the Balearic and Canary Islands than in mainland Spain .
Meanwhile , a government source told the BBC that the Spanish government was lobbying for the Balearic and Canary Islands to be exempt from the quarantine policy , and that discussions on the matter had taken place .
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez described the decision to impose a 14-day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it applied to the whole of Spain , rather than affected regions , the Reuters news agency reported .
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Among the thousands affected by the change in travel advice was Tom Clasby , who had checked into an airport hotel near Stansted with his fiancé , their two daughters , and other family members , ahead of a holiday to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was due to depart at 06:55 BST on Tuesday but now faces having to return home to Bury St Edmunds .
`` We 're in a situation where we ca n't do anything yet and I do n't actually know what to do .
The poor little girls have been so excited for this holiday - it 's the second holiday this year we 've had cancelled , '' he told the BBC .
`` We are just very disappointed , the girls will be so upset in the morning . ''
Another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said her bags were half packed for a planned trip to Tenerife on 31 July when she received a text message saying her trip was cancelled .
It 's the third holiday she 's had called off this year .
`` I was supposed to be going to Mexico , changed it to Ibiza and then amended the booking for a third time when they all got cancelled .
I thought Tenerife was going to be third time lucky and now this has happened , '' she said .
`` I can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or how , or when ! ''
Also affected was Transport Secretary Grant Shapps , who flew to Spain on Saturday despite knowing a decision on the quarantine policy was due .
Mr Shapps said in a statement he would return to the UK this week in order to complete his quarantine and would return to work as soon as possible .
And Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove said he cancelled a holiday to the Balearics after the change to quarantine rules was announced on Saturday .
EasyJet , British Airways , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operate full schedules of flights to Spain , though EasyJet said its holidays would be cancelled for the next few weeks .
The UK imposed the restriction over the weekend after a spike in infections in some Spanish regions , including Catalonia , where Barcelona is located , and Aragon .
The French government has told its nationals to stay away from Catalonia , while Norway has imposed a new 10-day quarantine on all travellers arriving from Spain .
It comes as a further seven people with coronavirus were reported to have died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to latest government figures - bringing the UK 's death toll to 45,759 .
The government also said in the 24-hour period up to 09:00 BST on Monday , there had been a further 685 lab-confirmed cases .
The UK 's total is 300,111 .
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A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We have considered the overall situation for British nationals travelling to and from the Balearic and Canary Islands, including the impact of the requirement to self-isolate on return to the UK, and concluded that we should advise British nationals against all non-essential travel to the whole of Spain."


bbcuk--2020-07-27--'Fix your bike' vouchers launch, as doctors to prescribe bikes on NHS

A government scheme offering £50 bike repair vouchers will launch in England on Tuesday as part of plans to boost cycling and walking .
An initial 50,000 vouchers will be made available online on a first come , first served basis .
The prime minister also announced that bikes will be made available on the NHS as part of the strategy .
But Labour said many of the government 's proposals were taking too long to come into effect .
It comes after the government launched its obesity strategy on Monday .
GPs in areas of England with poor health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and patients able to access bikes through their local surgery .
Recent Public Health England research found that being overweight or obese puts people at greater risk of serious illness or death from Covid-19 .
Government statistics showed nearly 8 % of critically ill patients in intensive care units with the virus have been morbidly obese , compared with 2.9 % of the general population .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said cycling and walking have `` a huge role to play '' in tackling health and environmental challenges .
`` But to build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need the right infrastructure , training and support in place to give people the confidence to travel on two wheels , '' he said .
`` That 's why now is the time to shift gears and press ahead with our biggest and boldest plans yet to boost active travel - so that everyone can feel the transformative benefits of cycling . ''
The government 's `` Fix Your Bike '' vouchers are being released in batches `` to help manage capacity '' and so that the scheme can be monitored before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government said .
They will typically cover the bill for a standard service and the replacement of a basic component such as an inner tube or cable .
• Want to start cycling to work ?
Here 's how During a Downing Street briefing in May , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the initiative would be `` available from next month '' .
But the Department for Transport ( DfT ) said in July that it would only begin when maintenance shops could handle the expected spike in demand .
Halfords said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for customers to bring their bikes into stores to identify potential faults which could be rectified under the scheme .
`` We think the government 's 'Fix Your Bike ' voucher scheme will not only help individuals become more confident about keeping their bikes maintained , but will help speed up the cycling revolution , '' said chief executive Graham Stapleton .
The retailer previously reported that bike sales had risen by 57.1 % in the 13 weeks to 3 July , as people sought to avoid public transport during lockdown .
Thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , cycle training for children and adults , and the creation of the UK 's first zero-emission transport city are also part of the plans to promote cycling and walking .
Other measures to improve the wellbeing of pedestrians and cyclists include strengthening the Highway Code , improving legal protections , increasing lorry safety standards and working with the police and retailers to tackle bike thefts .
The plans will be funded by a £2bn investment announced in February .
Mr Shapps said this is a `` once in a lifetime opportunity to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make cycling or walking part of daily routines .
`` The measures we 've set out today in this revolutionary plan will do just that , '' he added .
Matt Mallinder , director of the charity Cycling UK , said the plan `` places cycling at the heart of our towns and cities '' .
But he called for even more funding `` to truly shift gears so that everyone can feel the transformative benefits of cycling '' .
Kerry McCarthy , Labour shadow cycling minister also said that the Conservative party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this crisis has posed '' .
`` Although funding is welcome , cyclists will be rightly concerned about how long it is going to take to actually put these plans into practice .
`` No-one wants a return to the levels of pollution and congestion we saw before the lockdown began , but , if we fail to make our roads safe enough to cycle , people will revert back to taking the car . ''

"There's a quarter of households in Britain who don't have access to a car at all and we've got public transport operating at 30%, so 70% of people have got to find another way to travel or not go to work," he told BBC Breakfast.


bbcuk--2020-07-28--Coronavirus: Safety fears over lack of translated virus advice

A lack of translated coronavirus guidance is jeopardising the safety of non-English speakers in the UK , a joint letter to the health secretary claims .
The government said it has translated public health information into 25 languages , reaching a `` wide audience '' .
But campaigners say it is a `` limited range of languages '' and the translations can take weeks to be updated when advice or rules change .
One charity said the government has so far shown `` no engagement '' on the issue .
More than four million people in England and Wales do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ language , including more than 860,000 people who speak little or no English , according to the most recent official figures .
In the UK , 88 languages other than English are spoken as a main language .
A government spokesperson said it `` would n't be feasible '' to provide translations of all of these languages but that it had translated some of its `` key messages '' around coronavirus into the most common languages spoken in the UK .
But translations have become outdated as guidance has been updated .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidance on social distancing in 11 languages , including Welsh , Urdu , Arabic and Bengali .
But this advice was withdrawn on 1 May as guidance changed , and the current social distancing guide for England - which is titled `` staying alert and safe '' - has not been translated by the government .
Other current guidance that has not been translated by the government includes information on the NHS Test and Trace programme and the rules on wearing face coverings .
The government said it was `` committed to ensuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they need to stay safe '' during the pandemic , and had made coronavirus messages accessible `` to a wide audience '' .
Some 30 local authorities , groups of public health leaders and charities have written to Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick urging the government to produce and continue to update information in more languages .
Doctors of the World , which co-ordinated the letter , runs clinics in London that provide medical care and information for `` excluded people '' such as non-English speaking migrants , asylum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and those with low literacy levels .
The charity said it has translated coronavirus guidance into documents , audio guides and videos in more than 60 languages because the government `` has completely forgotten and left out this patient group '' who are therefore `` at increased risk of catching the virus , and are unable to protect themselves and their families '' .
• Pandemic hits help for refugees and asylum seekers Doctors of the World 's head of policy and advocacy , Anna Miller , said there had been `` no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Department of Health when her charity asked , ahead of the UK lockdown in March , what resources might be provided for non-English speakers .
She said trying to highlight the `` blind spot '' had been like `` hitting your head against a brick wall '' .
`` It 's just been an absolute lack of communication , or refusal to communicate , from central government , that has meant we 've had to get on and do [ the translations ] as if government does n't exist , '' she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets to everybody should have been the most basic , first thing in the government response .
And 'everybody ' includes people who do n't speak English . ''
The resources produced by Doctors of the World have been downloaded about 60,000 times in the UK - including by police forces and groups providing accommodation for asylum seekers .
Local authorities do provide translations of some of their own guidance , but Ms Miller said Doctors of the World had been told by several local authorities that they `` ca n't keep up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , resulting in inconsistent and outdated information .
The letter , sent on Monday evening and seen by the BBC , called for leadership from central government to maintain `` quality and consistency '' of public health messages .
It added that it was Mr Hancock 's `` statutory duty '' to provide translated resources .
It said : `` As lockdown measures are eased and guidance changes regularly , it is not sustainable or practical for local authorities and civil society to meet this need . ''
The Department of Health has @ @ @ @ @

The charity said it has translated coronavirus guidance into documents, audio guides and videos in more than 60 languages because the government "has completely forgotten and left out this patient group" who are therefore "at increased risk of catching the virus, and are unable to protect themselves and their families".


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Amazon takes on supermarkets with free food delivery

Amazon is ramping up its online grocery service with the aim of serving millions of shoppers across the UK by the end of 2020 .
Online food sales have almost doubled during the pandemic with grocers struggling to keep up with demand .
Amazon is now after a bigger slice of this fast-growing market , which analysts say could increase pressure on rivals such as Ocado .
`` [ Amazon ] can be compelling , disruptive and it 's a business with gigantic ambitions . ''
Amazon Fresh offers same or next-day grocery deliveries for customers in London and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Amazon Prime to get it and users currently have to pay an additional monthly fee or a delivery charge per order .
It has about 10,000 products including fresh , chilled and frozen food .
From Tuesday , this service will now be a free benefit to subscribers in these areas on orders above £40 .
About 40 postcodes in Surrey will also have access to a faster offer , with a possible same-day delivery before midnight if you order by 21:00 .
Amazon says it will roll out this quicker and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ multiple cities '' by the end of this year .
It 's an ambitious move .
`` Grocery delivery is one of the fastest growing businesses at Amazon and we think this will be one of the most-loved Prime benefits in the UK , `` says Russell Jones , country manager of Amazon Fresh UK .
He says this expansion was on the cards before Covid-19 .
`` We 've been planning this for a long time .
It 's a big step up in volume .
In the early days of lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We 're confident that we can launch this service now at this point in time , '' he says .
• Ocado says switch to online shopping is permanent Amazon revealed few specifics about its plans .
It launched Amazon Fresh in the UK in 2016 and has never given sales figures or customer numbers .
It has n't even confirmed how many Amazon Prime members it has in the UK .
According to market research firm Mintel , there are 15 million subscribers , potentially giving Amazon a huge platform .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ player in food retailing online .
They would n't be doing it otherwise .
Most of the markets they go into , they want to be the biggest player , '' says Richard Hyman .
It 's also far more difficult for grocers to make a profit with online sales compared to customers visiting stores .
`` The frightening thing for everybody else is that they all really need to make money , whereas Amazon does n't and that places them at an enormous advantage . ''
But it wo n't be easy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at GlobalData .
`` At the moment , people do n't really consider Amazon for food .
They 've got to build brand awareness and that takes time and a lot of investment . ''
`` Food and non-food retailing are two very different concepts , and Amazon must be careful not to underestimate the competitiveness of the UK grocery market . ''
He adds : `` Also , because of what 's happening with the economy , value is going to be the main driver , which is something Tesco 's been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price match campaign .
Amazon 's target is going to be fairly premium as it has signed a lot of deals with smaller , independent suppliers . ''
A big battle for upmarket shoppers is set for the autumn .
In September , Ocado will start selling M & S products instead of Waitrose food .
And it 's these players , thinks Richard Hyman , who have most to worry about when it comes to Amazon 's latest move .
`` If you think about the demographic of Prime , these members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing fighting Amazon off when you have an established business , but fighting them off when you 've got something completely new in the case of M & S and relatively new in the case of Waitrose flying solo will be more challenging .
`` Amazon are very clever at getting the rest of the market to follow their agenda and I think what they will particularly be doing is upping the ante on delivery times , '' he says .
All of the established players have been rapidly building online capacity to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe will be a permanent shift in shopping behaviour .
Amazon 's expansion means this part of the £119bn grocery market is going to become even more competitive in the coming months .

"If you think about the demographic of Prime, these members are relatively better-off... It's one thing fighting Amazon off when you have an established business, but fighting them off when you've got something completely new in the case of M&S and relatively new in the case of Waitrose flying solo will be more challenging.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Men and women's working hours 'nearly equal'

The split between genders in the amount of paid and unpaid work they do has shrunk over the last 40 years , according to a think tank .
A new study by the Resolution Foundation found that men in the UK are doing fewer paid hours and women more .
However , men get paid for 10 more of those hours a week than women do .
The foundation says that women and men are almost equal in terms of hours worked , clocking in 50 and 51 hours a week respectively .
Since the 1970s , women have increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five hours to 22 per week , and have cut unpaid hours , which include childcare duties and household chores , by almost three .
Meanwhile , men have cut their paid hours by more than eight to 34 per week .
The number of unpaid hours worked has increased by more than five a week .
• Will women have to work harder after the pandemic ?
• 'We value men 's work more than women's' Women still spend more time on childcare and spend slightly more time on `` personal care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spend more time in front of the TV .
Both spend the same amount of hours asleep .
The report also highlights what it describes as a `` new divide '' across households .
Women in higher-income households have seen the biggest increase in paid work , with men in lower-income households seeing a drop in their working hours - by as much as three hours a day - since the 1970s .
The foundation suggests that , as a result , the gap in total hours of paid work between high and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per week in 1974 to four hours and 20 minutes in 2014-15 .
One in seven workers in low-income households want to increase their hours of work , compared with just one in 30 workers in high-income households .
George Bangham , economist at the Resolution Foundation , said that since the coronavirus outbreak , many households are reconsidering how they structure their days .
`` Debates around how people spend their time often focus on a single goal - speeding up the move to a shorter working week to enable more time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
`` But this is n't how people 's lives have changed over the past four decades , desirable as it may be .
`` Men are doing less paid work , while women are doing more .
Both have less time for 'play ' with childcare up and leisure time down .
He added that a new `` working time inequality '' has emerged .
Labour 's shadow women and equalities secretary , Marsha de Cordova , said : `` The government must carry out and publish an Equality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures it has taken so far to support people through the pandemic .
`` It 's vital to prevent lower income households bearing the brunt of the crisis when they were already doing less paid work than high income households and many wanted to be doing more . ''

The report also highlights what it describes as a "new divide" across households. Women in higher-income households have seen the biggest increase in paid work, with men in lower-income households seeing a drop in their working hours - by as much as three hours a day - since the 1970s.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Toddler injured after falling from Poplar flat block

A toddler has been taken to hospital after falling from a block of flats in east London .
The Met @ @ @ @ @ India Dock Road in Poplar shortly after 18:50 BST to reports that a child had @ @ @ @ @ '' .
The child was taken to hospital where their condition is currently not yet @ @ @ @ @ been made .
A road closure has been put in place at East India Dock @ @ @ @ @ Street and Newby Place .
London Ambulance Service said the child was treated at the @ @ @ @ @ taken to a major trauma centre by ambulance .
People who witnessed the incident or @ @ @ @ @ contact police .

The 43-year-old father of two said he keeps the keys in the locks so his own children are not able to get to them.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Kylie Moore-Gilbert: Lecturer jailed in Iran 'moved to remote prison'

A British-Australian woman serving a 10-year sentence in Iran for espionage has been transferred to a notorious prison in the desert , according to Iranian human rights activists .
Kylie Moore-Gilbert , a lecturer at Melbourne University , has been in jail since September 2018 .
She strongly denies all the charges against her .
She spent almost two years sleeping on the floor in a cell in the capital Tehran , according to a friend .
She has been in solitary confinement and on several hunger strikes , and she is said to have been beaten for trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ writing to them on prison walls .
Now she has reportedly been moved to the notorious Qarchak prison .
The jail is sometimes used as punishment for Iranian political prisoners , reports Caroline Hawley , BBC World Affairs Correspondent .
Conditions have been described by former inmates as abysmal .
Ms Moore-Gilbert , a lecturer in Middle East politics , has been able to make one phone call out .
She told an Iranian human rights activist that she was in a very bad state , depressed and unable to eat .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prison in January , the lecturer said she had `` never been a spy '' and feared for her mental health .
She said she had rejected an offer from Iran to become a spy .
The Cambridge-educated academic was travelling on an Australian passport and was detained at Tehran airport in 2018 as she tried to leave following a conference .

She has been in solitary confinement and on several hunger strikes, and she is said to have been beaten for trying to comfort new prisoners by passing notes and writing to them on prison walls.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Booker Prize 2020: Hilary Mantel makes longlist

Hilary Mantel 's The Mirror & The Light is among the novels longlisted for this year 's Booker Prize .
It is the third book in the author 's Cromwell trilogy , and was selected for its `` masterful exhibition of sly dialogue and exquisite description , '' the judges said .
Mantel has previously won the prize twice - for the first two novels in the trilogy .
The longlist will be whittled down from 13 to a shortlist of six in September .
Zimbabwean writer Tsitsi Dangarembga was nominated , like Mantel , for the third novel in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Body .
This year 's longlist - nicknamed the 'Booker 's dozen ' - features eight debut novels .
The prize , which has been going since 1969 , was last year won jointly by Margaret Atwood and Bernardine Evaristo .
The annual longlist was compiled from 162 English-language novels published in the UK or Ireland .
Margaret Busby , chair of the 2020 judges , said that each of the titles on this year 's list was `` deserving of wide readership '' .
`` Included are novels carried by the sweep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life and given visibility , novels that represent a moment of cultural change , or the pressures an individual faces in pre- and post-dystopian society , '' she said in a statement .
`` Some of the books focus on interpersonal relationships that are complex , nuanced , emotionally charged .
There are voices from minorities often unheard , stories that are fresh , bold and absorbing , '' she added .
`` The best fiction enables the reader to relate to other people 's lives ; sharing experiences that we could not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being able to identify with characters . ''
The shortlist of six books will be announced on 15 September , with the £50,000-prize winning author being revealed in November .
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"The best fiction enables the reader to relate to other people's lives; sharing experiences that we could not ourselves have imagined is as powerful as being able to identify with characters."


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Kelp found off Scotland dates back 16,000 years to last ice age

Scientists have discovered kelp off the coast of Scotland , Ireland and France that has survived since the last ice age , around 16,000 years ago .
Experts from Heriot-Watt University 's Orkney campus analysed the genetic composition of oarweed from 14 areas across the northern Atlantic ocean .
It is hoped the discovery could help show how marine plant life survives extreme changes in climate .
Dr Andrew Want collected samples from Kirkwall Bay , near his home .
The marine ecologist said the `` refugee populations '' managed to hang on and survive `` amid dramatic changes '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Heriot-Watt 's International Centre for Island Technology in Orkney , said : `` Oarweed in Scotland and Ireland is more closely related to populations in the high Arctic than to the Brittany cluster .
`` As the ice sheets retreated from northern European shorelines at the end of the most recent ice age , oarweed distribution followed and recolonised the higher latitudes of the Atlantic .
`` Kelp plays a critical role in the Atlantic so it is important to understand what affects its distribution and survival over time and how sensitive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ research team , which included academics based in Portugal and France , found one distinct genetic cluster along the eastern seaboard of Canada and the US .
Another was discovered in central and northern Europe and a third compact population around Brittany .
Dr Want said the `` Brittany population '' is once again close to the other populations but has managed to remain distinct .
He added : `` Worryingly , this unique Brittany gene pool is projected to disappear under greenhouse gas emission scenarios .
`` This provides further evidence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changing marine temperatures . ''
The team 's findings have been published in the European Journal of Phycology .
Dr Joao Neiva , from Algarve 's Centre of Marine Sciences , said : `` Our study shows how marine organisms adjust to shifting climates by migrating polewards and even across the Atlantic when conditions are favourable .
`` These migrations provide a mechanism by which marine life buffers the effects of global climatic shifts , and how they can compensate for predictable contractions at warmer limits as the modern climatic crisis unfolds .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ threatened at global scales , range contractions can have very negative impacts if vanishing ranges are composed of unique and diverse populations .
`` This is certainly the case off the coast of Brittany . ''

Dr Want, who is based at Heriot-Watt's International Centre for Island Technology in Orkney, said: "Oarweed in Scotland and Ireland is more closely related to populations in the high Arctic than to the Brittany cluster.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--NHS Tayside claims it has 'effectively eliminated' hepatitis C

A Scottish health board has claimed to be the first region in the world to effectively eliminate hepatitis C. NHS Tayside developed a pioneering approach to treating the blood borne virus in 2012 , which targeted injecting drug users .
The health board said around 90 % of infections occur through sharing needles .
Last year , the Scottish government unveiled plans to eradicate hepatitis C by 2024 .
NHS Tayside says it has reached that target four years ahead of schedule .
An estimated 21,000 people across the country live with the chronic viral infection which causes progressive damage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on people who have stopped using drugs or who are accessing help services .
The NHS Tayside project , developed in collaboration with the University of Dundee , focuses on people who inject drugs without waiting until they go on to recovery programmes or stop using .
This prevents them passing the virus on to others , helping limit the spread .
Since testing began , the health board has diagnosed 1,970 people and treated over 1,800 - more than 90 % of the estimated prevalence of the virus .
It met the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reducing prevalence of hepatitis C 11 years early last year and has now hit another milestone .
Lorna Birse-Stewart , chairwoman of Tayside NHS Board , said it was `` the first region in the world to effectively eliminate the virus '' .
She added : `` It is testament to the work of the teams involved and , as a board , we are very proud of them . ''
Consultant hepatologist and gastroenterologist Prof John Dillon said the disease consumes a significant amount of NHS resources .
And he said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of injecting drug users are too chaotic to allow for the sort of sustained treatment that hepatitis C needs to achieve a cure .
Prof Dillon added : `` However , our view was that with the right approach , supported with appropriate resources , we could tackle what is a very significant problem and reduce the rates of hepatitis C infection .
`` If you can offer treatment at a very early stage , while people who are infected are still actively injecting , when they have contact with other people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , their chances of transmission disappear because they 're not infected any more . ''
He said from a single project in a Dundee needle exchange it expanded to multiple research projects and , eventually , led to a `` brave '' overhaul of services .
Testing and a treatment involving taking a combination of drugs daily for eight weeks is now offered in nurse-led community clinics , as well as in more than 60 community pharmacies , prisons and drug treatment services across Tayside .
Scotland 's Public Health Minister Joe FitzPatrick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ congratulated and recognised for this achievement .
`` The Scottish government remains committed to the elimination of hepatitis C in Scotland by 2024 , and we will now work closely with NHS Tayside to understand how their achievement can be replicated in other regions across Scotland . ''

"If you can offer treatment at a very early stage, while people who are infected are still actively injecting, when they have contact with other people who inject and share equipment with other people, their chances of transmission disappear because they're not infected any more."


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Infrastructure: More local input needed in big projects, say MPs

Much more local input is needed if the UK 's biggest infrastructure projects are to deliver their desired socio-economic benefits , MPs have said .
Too often consultation with affected communities took place after major decisions had already been taken , the Public Administration Committee said .
It called for feedback to be taken into account before funding is given and better data on how success is measured .
The government said it was committed to working with local people .
In a speech last month , Prime Minister Boris Johnson set out plans to accelerate £5bn worth of planned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , school and other areas in response to the economic damage wrought by coronavirus .
This comes on top of £640bn in planned infrastructure spending over the next five years promised in March 's Budget as part of the government 's `` levelling-up '' agenda .
• When will HS2 open and how much will it cost ?
But in a new report , the cross-party committee said the aims behind the government 's plans remained `` ill-defined '' and an updated National Infrastructure Strategy must be published `` before a penny is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned that billions risked being `` squandered '' unless prospective projects were better co-ordinated , there was greater transparency over their delivery and clearer benchmarks for their economic and social value .
• Projects must be preceded by detailed assessments of regional and local needs • Funding should only be approved if findings of local consultations are accepted • Data used to assess performance must be much clearer and publicly available • Project managers could be paid more to recruit people with right skills Its chair , the Conservative MP William Wragg , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some post-Covid projects would deliver lower financial returns than traditionally deemed acceptable - but they were still justified by their wider social impact , particularly in areas that had seen lower levels of spending in recent decades .
He said the Treasury 's criteria for assessing the merits of individual projects must be revised to ensure schemes in the North of England and in rural areas - where rates of growth have been historically slower - are not neglected .
`` As the nation embarks on a period of significant infrastructure spending we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the benefits they set out to achieve and were the basis for being given the go ahead , '' he said .
`` Developing grand infrastructure projects must not become an end in itself .
`` We must move away from the short-term view that measures the value of major projects in terms of whether they are finished on time and at the expected cost . ''
Earlier this year , the government finally gave the go-ahead for the construction of the HS2 rail line , due to connect London to Birmingham , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delays and amid concerted opposition from people living along the proposed route and environmental campaigners .
Other schemes in the government 's £450bn Major Projects Portfolio , such as Crossrail , have also suffered significant delays and cost over-runs while the future of a new runway at Heathrow Airport is in doubt .
The report warned against a `` scatter-gun '' approach to the selection of future projects and a re-think over how to engage with local communities .
It said `` too often local consultation begins after fundamental decisions have already been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infrastructure that neither meets local need nor has full public support '' .
Mr Wragg said the government must learn the lessons of past mistakes and ensure early and meaningful consultation at a local level .
`` It will be critical not just to get local support for infrastructure projects , but getting local input in identifying problems and developing solutions must be better supported , '' he said .
A Cabinet Office spokesperson said : `` The government is delivering a bold and ambitious portfolio of major projects , to support economic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the delivery of our public services .
`` We are committed to working with local people , partners and across sectors to ensure that all UK citizens benefit from the delivery of infrastructure and major projects . ''

"As the nation embarks on a period of significant infrastructure spending we must focus on how much they deliver the benefits they set out to achieve and were the basis for being given the go ahead," he said.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Coachella orders MS Trust charity to change festival name

Lawyers for giant US arts and music festival Coachella have forced a UK charity to change the name of its online fundraising event `` Couch-ella '' .
MS Trust said lawyers for the US festival , held annually in the Californian desert , told it the `` chella '' suffix was trademarked .
The Hertfordshire charity said it was `` devastated '' but that its festival would go ahead with a different name .
Coachella has been contacted for comment .
A spokeswoman for the MS Trust said organisers of Coachella were in touch on 23 July .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'MS Trust Home Festival ' , '' she said .
`` We are , of course , devastated by this , but the festival will still go ahead as planned . ''
Coachella is one of the world 's biggest music festivals , last year attracting 250,000 people over two weekends , but will not take place this year due to coronavirus .
MS Trust , based in Letchworth Garden City , supports anyone affected by multiple sclerosis , an incurable lifelong condition that affects the brain and spinal cord Its online festival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , will feature comedy , music , yoga , dance and arts for people to view from home .
Comedy character John Shuttleworth will perform and TV fitness star Mr Motivator will teach an exercise class .
MS Trust 's chief executive David Martin said lawyers warned of `` possible confusion '' between the charity 's event and the US festival .
`` They asked us to reconsider our name and see if there was something else we could use to avoid confusion , '' Mr Martin said .
`` Half of me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' but in reality when lawyers get involved it costs a lot and we did n't want to waste any of the charity 's money . ''
He said the charity now had `` something in common with P Diddy '' , as the rapper - real name Sean Combs - had to change the name of an event he dubbed `` Combschella '' in 2018 .
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He said the charity now had "something in common with P Diddy", as the rapper - real name Sean Combs - had to change the name of an event he dubbed "Combschella" in 2018.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Coronavirus: When I come back from Spain, will I get paid if I self-isolate?

The government 's decision to impose a 14-day quarantine on travellers arriving in the UK from Spain has caused `` uncertainty and confusion '' , as one holiday firm has put it .
So , what does it mean for those visiting Spain ?
Will my employer pay me if I have to isolate on return from Spain ?
Lisa , Horsham It will depend on individual employers .
You 're not automatically entitled to statutory sick pay if you are self-isolating after returning from holiday or business travel , industrial relations body Acas says .
You should tell your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them about the company 's policy .
If you can work from home , for instance , then you can be paid as normal .
But if you ca n't , another solution could be to take annual leave so you can get holiday pay while self-isolating .
Your employer could choose to pay you sick pay , either at the statutory rate or a higher level .
However , if you have coronavirus or its symptoms and have to self-isolate , then you are eligible for statutory sick pay , which pays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson said : `` If there are people who need urgent support then they may be entitled to the new-style employment support allowance or universal credit . ''
Is my insurance valid if I 'm already there ?
The Association of British Insurers says existing insurance is likely to cover holidaymakers who were in Spain when the government 's advice changed .
But it added travelling against Foreign Office advice is likely to invalidate travel insurance .
• Can I get travel insurance and what are my travel rights ?
A hotel I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Can I reject the offer of an alternative and get a full refund ?
Christian Evans Under the regulations , if an online travel agent makes any significant change to your holiday - such as flight times or the hotel - they should tell you and give you a reasonable period of time to accept it , or cancel with a full refund .
Additionally , the regulations allow you to claim a refund for any trip to a destination with a Foreign and Commonwealth Office warning against it , such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ booked holidays , consult your airline , tour operator or travel agent .
Tui customers due to travel anywhere in Spain between 27 July and 9 August can cancel or amend holidays and receive a full refund or the option to rebook .
People with holidays booked from 10 August will be updated on 31 July .
• What are the UK travel quarantine rules ?
• Where can I still take a foreign summer holiday this summer ?
Jet2 has cancelled flights to the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands on Tuesday 28 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It advised customers not to travel to the airport .
Other firms such as British Airways and EasyJet are maintaining their flight schedules .
People whose trips are cancelled should get a refund within two weeks , but there may be a delay .
What are the quarantine rules for when I return ?
When you arrive back in the UK , you must go straight home or to other suitable accommodation .
You are allowed to travel by public transport .
Your 14-day period of self-isolation starts from the day after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home except for medical assistance , to attend court or go to a funeral - or to go shopping for essentials , if no-one else can do this for you .
Leaving home for work , exercise or socialising is not allowed .
In England , there are some other reasons you can leave your accommodation .
What happens if people break quarantine rules ?
People can be fined up to £1,000 for breaking quarantine rules .
However , the National Police Chiefs ' Council says that as of 20 July , only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-isolating after arriving in England .
How long will the new rules last ?
It is difficult to say , as the government is reviewing nations on its `` safe level '' for travel every week .
Which ?
magazine travel editor Rory Boland told BBC News that in this instance an update may come sooner , as travel `` is so important to UK travellers and to the economy of Spain '' .
What questions do you have about Spain travel regulations ?
In some cases your question will be published , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

Coronavirus: When I come back from Spain, will I get paid if I self-isolate? Published 27 July 2020
Image source, Getty Images
The government's decision to impose a 14-day quarantine on travellers arriving in the UK from Spain has caused "uncertainty and confusion", as one holiday firm has put it.
So, what does it mean for those visiting Spain?
Will my employer pay me if I have to isolate on return from Spain? Lisa, Horsham
It will depend on individual employers.
You're not automatically entitled to statutory sick pay if you are self-isolating after returning from holiday or business travel, industrial relations body Acas says.
You should tell your boss as soon as possible and ask them about the company's policy.
If you can work from home, for instance, then you can be paid as normal. But if you can't, another solution could be to take annual leave so you can get holiday pay while self-isolating.
Your employer could choose to pay you sick pay, either at the statutory rate or a higher level.
However, if you have coronavirus or its symptoms and have to self-isolate, then you are eligible for statutory sick pay, which pays £95.85 per week.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: "If there are people who need urgent support then they may be entitled to the new-style employment support allowance or universal credit."
Is my insurance valid if I'm already there?
The Association of British Insurers says existing insurance is likely to cover holidaymakers who were in Spain when the government's advice changed.
But it added travelling against Foreign Office advice is likely to invalidate travel insurance.
A hotel I've booked online in Majorca is closed. Can I reject the offer of an alternative and get a full refund? Christian Evans
Image source, AFP
Under the regulations, if an online travel agent makes any significant change to your holiday - such as flight times or the hotel - they should tell you and give you a reasonable period of time to accept it, or cancel with a full refund.
Additionally, the regulations allow you to claim a refund for any trip to a destination with a Foreign and Commonwealth Office warning against it, such as Spain currently.
For refunds on other booked holidays, consult your airline, tour operator or travel agent.
Tui customers due to travel anywhere in Spain between 27 July and 9 August can cancel or amend holidays and receive a full refund or the option to rebook. People with holidays booked from 10 August will be updated on 31 July.
Jet2 has cancelled flights to the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands on Tuesday 28 July, as well as mainland Spain. It advised customers not to travel to the airport.
Other firms such as British Airways and EasyJet are maintaining their flight schedules.
People whose trips are cancelled should get a refund within two weeks, but there may be a delay.
Image source, EPA
What are the quarantine rules for when I return?
When you arrive back in the UK, you must go straight home or to other suitable accommodation. You are allowed to travel by public transport.
Your 14-day period of self-isolation starts from the day after you arrive.
You cannot leave home except for medical assistance, to attend court or go to a funeral - or to go shopping for essentials, if no-one else can do this for you.
Leaving home for work, exercise or socialising is not allowed.
These include:
Accessing ''critical public services'' like social services and victim support services
Visiting a dying or critically ill family member
In an emergency
What happens if people break quarantine rules?
People can be fined up to £1,000 for breaking quarantine rules.
However, the National Police Chiefs' Council says that as of 20 July, only one person has been fined for not self-isolating after arriving in England.
How long will the new rules last?
It is difficult to say, as the government is reviewing nations on its "safe level" for travel every week.
Which? magazine travel editor Rory Boland told BBC News that in this instance an update may come sooner, as travel "is so important to UK travellers and to the economy of Spain".
Image source, BBC
What questions do you have about Spain travel regulations?
In some cases your question will be published, displaying your name, age and location as you provide it, unless you state otherwise. Your contact details will never be published. Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy.
Use this form to ask your question:


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Coronavirus: What are the UK's travel rules and which countries can you visit?

A holiday in Spain now means two weeks of quarantine for those arriving back in the UK .
But which other countries can you visit and what do you need to do when you return ?
Where can I go without quarantining when I get back ?
Those entering the UK from the common travel area - the Republic of Ireland , the Channel Islands , or the Isle of Man - were always exempt from the quarantine rules .
They have been joined by passengers from dozens more countries , who are no longer required to self-isolate .
More @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holiday spots - now pose `` a reduced risk '' from coronavirus , the government says .
The list focuses on countries in Europe , island nations around the world including the Caribbean , and countries further east - including Vietnam , Japan , South Korea , Hong Kong , Australia and New Zealand .
Arrivals are exempt from quarantine if they arrive in England , Wales and Northern Ireland from : Andorra , Antigua and Barbuda , Aruba , Australia , Austria , Bahamas , Barbados , Belgium , Bonaire , Sint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Cyprus , Czech Republic , Denmark , Dominica , Faroe Islands , Fiji , Finland , France , French Polynesia , Germany , Greece , Greenland , Grenada , Guadeloupe , Hong Kong , Hungary , Iceland , Italy , Jamaica , Japan , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Macau , Malta , Mauritius , Monaco , Netherlands , New Caledonia , New Zealand , Norway , Poland , Réunion , San Marino , Seychelles , South Korea , St Barthélemy , St Kitts and Nevis , St Lucia , St @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Trinidad and Tobago , Turkey , Vatican City , Vietnam .
From 28 July 2020 passengers arriving from Estonia , Latvia , Slovakia , Slovenia and St Vincent and the Grenadine will not need to self-isolate .
The 14 British Overseas Territories are also exempt .
The government has been advising against all but essential travel since March , but this advice has been lifted for destinations that `` no longer pose an unacceptably high risk '' for British travellers .
Health measures like quarantine are set by each UK nation separately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quarantine exemptions for the same countries as England .
Scotland is also allowing exemptions , and has updated its own list of countries with which it is now allowing travel without quarantine .
What are the rules for Spain ?
Spain was removed from the list of exempt countries following `` a significant change over the last week in both the level and pace '' of coronavirus cases , the government said .
People already in Spain can stay for the remainder of their holiday , but must self-isolate for two weeks after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arriving in the UK from anywhere in Spain - including the Canary and Balearic Islands .
For those with holidays coming up , the Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) is advising against all but essential travel to any part of Spain , despite calls for the islands to be exempt from quarantine rules .
Who decides which countries are on the quarantine list ?
Advice from the Joint Biosecurity Centre ( JBS ) helps the government decide whether to change countries on the exemption list .
The JBS looks at range @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimate of the proportion of the population that is currently infectious In Spain , the Covid-19 infection rate is currently 39.4 cases per 100,000 , according to the European Union 's European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control .
This compares with the UK 's rate of 14.6 .
Spain 's rate is on the rise and is now comparable with Sweden and Portugal , where rates are falling .
In Greece , another popular UK holiday destination , the rate is currently 3.7 per 100,000 people .
Which other countries are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to isolate for 14 days if you arrive back in the UK from Canada , the US , much of Central or South America , and some countries in Africa , the Middle East and Asia .
Travellers from Sweden , Portugal , Russia and anywhere else not on the list will also have to quarantine .
The list will be kept under review , and the government says it `` will not hesitate '' to remove a country if conditions worsen there , as it has done with Spain .
Equally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK travellers if its infection rate rises .
What about restrictions at my destination ?
Travellers leaving the UK could still face restrictions - including quarantine - when they arrive in one of the exempted countries .
About half the countries and territories on the list have restrictions for arriving UK visitors .
These include : • Austria requires Britons to self-isolate unless they have a recent medical certificate or test negative for coronavirus on arrival • New Zealand has barred almost all foreign travellers from visiting , while Australia requires an exemption @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a citizen • Visitors to Iceland can either choose to pay for a test or go into quarantine • You are not allowed to enter Cyprus if you have been in the UK in the last 14 days .
This may change on 1 August , the Cypriot government has indicated .
But these restrictions may change .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to look after your mental health

On 24 December, the UK banned travel from South Africa amid concerns over another new strain of the virus linked to that country. People who have transited through South Africa in the past 10 days will also be banned. However, UK and Irish nationals as well as the UK visa holders and permanent residents are exempt, but they will have to self-isolate for 10 days on arrival.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Coronavirus: Lockdown wipes £30bn from UK pubs and restaurants

Sales at pubs , restaurants and hotels across the UK plunged by £30bn during lockdown , according to the hospitality sector .
UK Hospitality said that revenues plummeted by 87 % between April and June , compared to the same period last year .
Boss Kate Nicholls said it shows many firms still need government support .
The trade body says sales for the three-month period came to £4.6bn , £29.6bn lower than in 2019 .
Last year the hospitality industry contributed £38bn in tax receipts , a figure that will be substantially lower for 2020 .
• The owner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close 75 branches • Frankie & Benny 's owner could close up to 120 sites • Sandwich chain Pret A Manger has said it will cut at least 1,000 jobs While some pubs sold takeaway meals and drinks during lockdown , many were closed from 23 March until 4 July .
Kate Nicholls , chief executive of UK Hospitality , said the dramatic fall in sales demonstrates government assistance for the industry 's 65,000 businesses is vital .
`` These figures substantiate our message that businesses still need support from government , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and job losses .
`` While it 's great that some businesses are trading again , for many opening their doors remains unviable , while some parts of hospitality are still legally required to stay closed , '' she said .
Graham Browett runs the Five Lamps Pub in Derby .
His 15 staff were furloughed during lockdown , but the pub did n't qualify for the government 's business support grant .
He said the pub decided offering takeaway meals would n't work , so there was zero revenue coming in for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a rent holiday from the owner .
`` Our chef had just put on a new menu that was quite fancy and you could n't serve it out of plastic containers , '' he said .
Mr Browett said the pub is now bringing in about 80 % of the weekly revenue that it earned before lockdown .
`` There 's still a certain reticence .
A lot of our customers are elderly , so we 've gained the younger element but the older ones are still frightened , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ government 's Eat Out To Help Out discounted meals scheme in August .
`` It 's an opportunity for us to push our new menu , '' Mr Browett said .
And his outlook for the pub beyond that ?
`` Tell me when the vaccine 's coming , '' he said .

"While it's great that some businesses are trading again, for many opening their doors remains unviable, while some parts of hospitality are still legally required to stay closed," she said.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Coronavirus: How can I use the 'eat out to help out scheme'?

Diners will soon be able to get money off their bill on certain days in August to encourage a return to cafes , pubs and restaurants .
It 's hoped the `` eat out to help out '' scheme will provide a boost to the struggling hospitality industry , now that the national lockdown is easing .
But the scheme , which has been launched alongside the government 's healthy eating strategy , has faced criticism from some anti-obesity campaigners .
How does the scheme work ?
The promotion gives people a discount of up to 50 % when eating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurant or other food establishment .
It is valid all day Monday , Tuesday and Wednesday from 3 to 31 August , in all parts of the UK that are not in a local lockdown .
The maximum discount available is £10 per person when you eat or drink in .
Food and drink will appear on the menu at full price , and the restaurant will deduct the money off the bill and claim it back from the government .
How do I get the discount ?
The discount is only available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to consume on the premises , and can be used as many times as you like .
There is no limit on how many people can use the discount in one party , and it includes children .
Participating venues are supposed to offer the full 50 % discount all day Monday to Wednesday and across the whole food and soft drink menu .
There 's no minimum spend and you do n't have to order food to be eligible , for example a £3 coffee would cost £1.50 under the scheme .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with any other promotions and discounts being offered by the venue .
• Can my boss force me to go back to work ?
Which food and drink places are taking part ?
• Restaurants ( including those in hotels leisure centres and holiday parks ) Lots of local , independent pubs restaurants and cafes are taking part , as well as big chains .
Establishments can choose whether to sign up , and can join the scheme at any point .
They need to register online and will be able to claim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within five working days , To be eligible they must have a designated dining or drinking area , or access to one , and have been registered with their local authority since at least 7 July 2020 .
Businesses that have used the furlough scheme can apply .
A full list of places taking part has been published , allow people to search for participating venues within a two-mile radius .
Chains that have signed up so far include : What is not included ?
The discount can not be used on alcoholic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a private function or event .
As the idea is to encourage people to eat in , establishments that are takeaway-only are not eligible .
Neither are catering services , bed and breakfasts or mobile food vans .
Businesses must have the facilities for people to dine in to take part , so venues offering informal seating in an area that does not belong to them are not included .
Why is 'eat out to help out ' being introduced ?
To help get struggling cafes , restaurants and pubs back on their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest employers in the UK and has been hit especially hard by the lockdown measures .
In April 80 % of venues closed , and 1.4 million hospitality workers have been placed on furlough , the highest proportion of any sector .
Some venues have been able to provide a takeaway service during lockdown .
But this often means lower average spending per head and fewer people employed , and it is not an option for some businesses .
In August , when many premises will have reopened , the government hopes diners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on offer .
It also wants it to boost confidence in going out , and increase footfall at the quieter end of the week .
A recent survey suggested that many Britons felt uncomfortable about eating at a restaurant .
The Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) said just over two-in-10 adults were happy to have a sit-down meal .
The scheme is being used alongside other targeted help such as a cut in VAT for hospitality and tourism businesses .
Why has the scheme been criticised ?
Several fast-food chains are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has drawn criticism from some anti-obesity campaigners .
The National Obesity Forum , for example , has said it would be a `` green light to promote junk food '' .
The discount scheme sits alongside the government 's healthy eating plan that bans `` buy one get one free '' deals on unhealthy food , amid growing evidence of a link between obesity and an increased risk from coronavirus .
When asked if the government was promoting mixed messages , Care Minister Helen Whately told LBC Radio that under the healthy eating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to publish calorie breakdowns of their meals , helping diners to make an `` informed choice '' .

Coronavirus: Will the 'eat out to help out scheme' be extended? Published 28 August 2020
Image source, Getty Images
The "eat out to help out" scheme, which gives diners up to 50% off their bill, is due to end on Bank Holiday Monday (31 August).
Designed to boost the struggling hospitality industry, 64 million discounted meals were ordered during the first three weeks of the scheme.
The Treasury has resisted calls to extend the scheme but several restaurants say they will carry it on at their own expense.
Which restaurants say they will offer the discount for longer?
Chains pledging to continue offering some form of discount include:
Pizza Pilgrims
Tesco Café
The Real Greek
Until 9 September:
Harvester
Toby Carvery
Stonehouse Pizza
A longer list - including independent venues taking part by region - can be found here.
This is separate from the government scheme, so the discounts on offer may vary or change.
How has the Eat Out To Help Out scheme worked?
The UK-wide government promotion gives people up to 50% off when eating - or drinking soft drinks - in a participating restaurant or other food establishment.
The maximum discount is £10 per person.
It is valid all day Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday throughout August.
Food and drink appear on the menu at full price, but the restaurant takes the money off the bill before claiming it back from the government.
Image source, Getty Images
Can I eat and drink anything?
The discount is only on food and soft drinks that you intend to consume on the premises.
It does not apply to takeaways.
There is no limit on how many times you can use the discount, or for how many people, including children.
There's no minimum spend and you don't have to order food to be eligible. For example, a £3 coffee would cost £1.50 under the scheme.
The offer can be used in combination with any other promotions and discounts being offered by the venue.
Which food and drink places are taking part?
More than 83,000 businesses have signed up to the promotion. These include:
Restaurants (including those in hotels, leisure centres and holiday parks)
Cafes
Bars and pubs that serve food
Canteens
Food halls with a seating area
Members' clubs
Catering services, bed and breakfasts and mobile food vans are not eligible.
Image source, Getty Images
Lots of local independent pubs, restaurants and cafes have been taking part, as well as big chains.
To be eligible they must have a designated dining or drinking area, or access to one. They must have been registered with their local authority since at least 7 July 2020.
A search tool allows people to search for participating local venues within a five-mile radius.
The search tool may not include big chain restaurants taking part, a list of which can be found here. They include:
Ask Italian
Benugo
Bill's
Burger King
Caffe Nero
Costa Coffee
Cote Brasserie
Five Guys
Franco Manca
Giggling Squid
Honest Burgers
KFC
Leon
M&S Cafe
McDonald's
Nando's
Pizza Express
Prezzo
Pret a Manger
Starbucks
Subway
Turtle Bay
Wagamama
JD Wetherspoon
Zizzi
What are the rules for eating out?
Pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants can now reopen indoors, with guidance issued for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland on measures they must take to keep customers and staff safe.
These include social distancing, controlled access to toilets and the option of ordering food on apps.
Hospitality venues must also collect and keep the details of at least one person in your party for 21 days. This is in case they are needed for contact tracing.
You do not have to provide your details, but bars and restaurants have the right to refuse you service.
Why was 'eat out to help out' introduced?
Hospitality is one of the UK's biggest employers and has been hit especially hard by lockdown. In April, 80% of venues closed, and 1.4 million hospitality workers have been placed on furlough at some point since then.
Some venues have been able to provide a takeaway service during lockdown. But this often means lower average spending per head and fewer people employed.
The scheme has been used alongside other targeted help, such as a cut in VAT for hospitality and tourism businesses.
Why has the scheme been criticised?
Several fast-food chains have taken part in the scheme, which has drawn criticism from some anti-obesity campaigners. The National Obesity Forum, for example, has said it was a ''green light to promote junk food''.
The discount scheme sits alongside the government's healthy eating plan that bans "buy one get one free" deals on unhealthy food, amid growing evidence of a link between obesity and an increased risk from coronavirus.


bbcuk--2020-07-27--Coronavirus doctor's diary: Will vaccine sceptics make trials a headache?

It will soon be critical for the NHS to start vaccinating people against flu , to prevent hospitals being swamped with flu and Covid-19 patients this winter .
Large-scale trials of Covid-19 vaccines , already under way in some places , are likely to start in Bradford in the autumn .
It 's therefore worrying , says Dr John Wright of the city 's Royal Infirmary , that anti-vax conspiracy theories seem to have flourished in this pandemic .
The numbers of hospital patients continue to slowly decline , almost down to single figures this week .
There is great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the inevitability of a further spike of infection .
We know of the warning from Game of Thrones - winter is coming - and never before has that phrase been so ominous .
The prediction of a second wave of Covid-19 in January , with the added layer of an influenza epidemic , is our worst fear .
So we will be working hard to make sure we vaccinate as many people for flu as we can in the autumn .
The race for an effective Covid-19 vaccine continues at pace .
Over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and more than 30 are in clinical trials , with some showing promising early signs .
At the Bradford Institute of Health Research we are one of just five national centres for patient recruitment to clinical trials , and have lots of expertise with testing new drugs .
However vaccine trials are a completely different ball game .
Rather than trialling new drugs on a small number of patients with specific diseases we will be testing new vaccines on hundreds and thousands of healthy volunteers .
We have been exploring how we could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recruit these volunteers , and how we can scale up our research teams to cope with the numbers .
We have been preparing for two different vaccine trials , only for the companies to pull them from the UK at the last minute and move them to the Americas .
The pandemic fires have been dampened in Europe , but in the US and Latin America they continue to rage , and if you are going to test a new vaccine you need countries where the virus is still accelerating .
But despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be further trials of other candidate vaccines .
It 's therefore important to win the support of the public so that they sign up to these new trials , and to do that we need to counter some of the growing false news stories we are hearing on our community grapevines , which are leading people to believe that the vaccines are harmful .
Prof John Wright , a doctor and epidemiologist , is head of the Bradford Institute for Health Research , and a veteran of cholera , HIV and Ebola epidemics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this diary for BBC News and recording from the hospital wards for BBC Radio .
• Listen to the next episode of The NHS Front Line on BBC Sounds or the BBC World Service • Or read the previous online diary entry : So , did the Bradford choir have Covid in January ?
I wrote before about the abusive messages sent to one of our consultants , Fozia Hayat , who was accused of having blood on her hands when she tried to rebut the idea that hospitals leave patients from ethnic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circulating in Bradford , which says that Bill Gates is using vaccines to implant microchips in patients , was aired on the news in Pakistan , she has learned .
It appears these ideas are spreading nationally and internationally on social media .
• Listen to Fozia Hayat investigating Covid fake news in My Name is Fozia on BBC Radio 4 at 11:00 on Monday 27 July I have also written about Mohammed Azeem , a young man who delayed coming to hospital until he was at death 's door because he believed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave the wards alive ( though thankfully he did , after 48 days in intensive care ) .
Here are some more examples of the problems we are up against .
In Bradford we recruited 12,500 pregnant women into a cohort study between 2007 and 2010 , and have been monitoring the health of their children ever since .
We have started to offer some of them antibody testing , and have been picking up on ideas such as , `` You 're putting a microchip in us , '' or `` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is clearly something we need to understand and deal with ahead of the vaccine trials .
'Everything seems to be a big lie' A healthcare assistant in the hospital , who does n't want to be named , has seen Covid patients on the ward - but she still believes many of the conspiracy theories online .
She does n't watch any mainstream media reports .
`` I follow people who I believe know what they are talking about ...
I do n't need to check them out , I get a gut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that there 's a big lie in the world .
At the moment everything seems to be a big lie .
Nobody knows what 's true and what 's not . ''
'Things will be hidden in the vaccine' Giselle Rwegema , a TB nurse at St Luke 's Hospital in Bradford , does volunteer work with East African refugees and says many believe that the vaccine is `` a way of getting rid of black people '' .
A video that claimed the vaccine would be trialled on very poor people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says .
`` What they 're saying is that people go to hospital , and they do n't come back .
I work in healthcare and I know it 's not true , it 's just trying to convey that to people .
Some understand it , but there are still others that are still not getting it . ''
A young mother in Giselle 's group , Corrine , is adamant that she wo n't take a vaccine even if it has been declared safe and effective : `` No , definitely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black and everything that we know about the work that 's going on to just take a black number down - that 's been going on for years and I would n't take it just based on that , because there are so many things that will be hidden in the vaccine . ''
'What lethal injection did you give him ? '
Accident and Emergency ward sister Emma Clinton describes an Asian man in his early 60s who was afraid to come into hospital , and was already dying by the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He died in the department within about an hour .
And then of course the family were absolutely distraught .
The son was saying , 'What lethal injection did you give him ?
How has he died ?
Have you killed him ? '
'' As A & E consultant David Greenhorn says , once that question has been asked , it 's impossible to turn the situation around .
`` If they must mistrust you enough to ask you that question directly , then the trust has already gone and you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ develop it .
You could never rebuild things , there 's no way of building that bridge . ''
Previously I thought that everybody would want a vaccine if we can show that it works , but now I fear I underestimated how suspicious people are .
I 'm not sure what we can do about it , but part of it is about trying to understand the reasons for these views .
Rather than just shouting from the hospital , `` It 's OK , everything 's fine , '' we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news stories are coming from , then we must work out how to counteract them .
And I think that 's a long-term journey .
One plan we 've had is to get some of our Covid patients , who have already had good experiences in hospital , to be ambassadors - patients from the communities that are most suspicious .
That work has already begun in pre-publicity for the vaccine trials .

"What they're saying is that people go to hospital, and they don't come back. I work in healthcare and I know it's not true, it's just trying to convey that to people. Some understand it, but there are still others that are still not getting it." A young mother in Giselle's group, Corrine, is adamant that she won't take a vaccine even if it has been declared safe and effective: "No, definitely not. Because obviously, me being black and everything that we know about the work that's going on to just take a black number down - that's been going on for years and I wouldn't take it just based on that, because there are so many things that will be hidden in the vaccine."


bbcuk--2020-07-26--Coronavirus in Scotland: What is known about care home deaths?

Nearly half of Scotland 's 4,193 coronavirus deaths have been linked to care homes .
So what do we know about these men and women who succumbed to a disease that has ravaged the world ?
Surprisingly , the answer is very little .
The first Alan Wightman knew about virus-related deaths in his mother 's care home came from an unexpected phone call .
`` Have you seen The Courier ? ''
the home 's deputy manager asked .
The local newspaper was reporting that an outbreak at Scoonie House in Fife had resulted in 16 positive cases , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ article had not been published , they 'd never have phoned me , '' says Alan .
`` Their hand was forced . ''
That phone call came on 1 May and five days later Alan 's 88-year-old mother Helen became another coronavirus fatality .
According to the Care Inspectorate - Scotland 's regulatory body for the sector - care providers are under `` no statutory obligation '' to notify residents , or their families , of an outbreak in their homes .
Caring Homes - the private company that runs Scoonie House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absolute priority '' , and everything had been done to keep them well .
It had `` proactively '' sourced the right protective equipment for staff , engaged in routine testing and stopped new admissions .
The company added : `` We have sought to be transparent with relatives and they have received regular communications from our home manager and senior leadership team . ''
The one thing it did n't say was how many deaths linked to Covid-19 had happened .
Alan does n't dispute his mother 's care and he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given .
What he does question is how coronavirus still managed to take hold , despite the measures employed .
He also questions why Caring Homes wo n't make public its death numbers .
Alan 's view is that care homes are `` hiding , where they can , behind confidentiality '' .
Caring Homes is not the only provider reluctant to reveal how many fatalities could be attributed to the pandemic .
So , what do we know about deaths ?
Officially , there have been suspected cases in two-thirds of homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slightly more lives in care homes ( 1,950 ) than in hospitals ( 1,945 ) .
Data also reveals that since mid-March there have been 2,365 `` excess deaths '' in Scottish care homes as measured against the five-year average .
Weekly figures published by National Records of Scotland - which include confirmed and suspected coronavirus deaths - show what the situation is at health board level .
But is it possible to map every single care home death by address and provider ?
Over many weeks I sent hundreds of emails to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Scotland 's elderly .
But most declined to say how many virus-related deaths they had reported to the Care Inspectorate .
The regulatory body - as well as the Scottish government - also refused to release a breakdown .
The Care Inspectorate also declined to disclose the data via a freedom of information request , pointing out that infections and death numbers `` may not necessarily be related to a service 's quality of care , hygiene standards , and use of PPE '' .
The watchdog added : `` To release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could have significant impact on the ability of the provider , and consequently their services , to function commercially in already challenging economic circumstances .
`` Releasing information at this level would also likely impact on their ability to engage new staff and/or attract new residents . ''
The government said data needed to be accurate and published in a way that protected people 's right to confidentiality .
Faced with very little official figures , I searched online news articles , obituaries , and death notices and contacted social media groups set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ones in care homes .
But despite casting a wide net , I could find only 93 care homes in which 588 residents had died - that 's 30 % of all the 1,950 confirmed and suspected elderly deaths .
Of these , 78 % were reported at privately-run homes .
For context , 63 % of the sector is private , with the remainder being non-profit ( 24 % ) , council ( 12 % ) , and health board ( 1 % ) .
• HC-One - which runs 50-plus care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths ( 223 ) , comparative to Four Seasons ( 104 ) which operates 30-plus homes .
But many providers would not even confirm figures that had appeared in the media .
For example , Advinia Care Homes Limited declined to reveal numbers despite freedom of information requests and news stories reporting at least 66 deaths in five of its homes .
It simply said it would not release such data `` out of respect to the families who have lost someone '' .
Helen Wightman 's son Alan says he is dismayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` they [ the care homes ] are not providing answers '' .
As well as private homes failing to release death figures - half a dozen local authorities have also declined to publish numbers .
The media reported 15 deaths at council-run Crosslet House , but West Dunbartonshire said patient confidentiality meant it was `` unable to confirm '' fatalities .
Robert Kilgour - executive chairman of Renaissance Care - told BBC Scotland councils should provide figures for deaths .
He said : `` If they have nothing to hide then they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no data protection issues at all .
This is a smokescreen for them to hide behind . ''
• If you divide the number of deaths by the total number of beds you can come up with an approximate death rate per home .
It 's a basic calculation , but in the absence of little data it gives an insight .
What about deaths by council area ?
While weekly figures published by National Records of Scotland use local authority areas they do n't reveal which specific homes have reported deaths .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I built maps highlighting possible virus hot spots .
Some show evenly-spread points across councils like Glasgow , whereas we see clusters of care home deaths in the east of Renfrewshire , and eastern Edinburgh .
The limited data set also allows us to calculate what percentage of deaths in a council area can be attributed to a single care home .
How does Scotland compare to other countries ?
Analysis of global figures by academics at the London School of Economics ( LSE ) suggests care home residents were more likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than in any of the other major European countries , apart from Spain .
The proportion of residents dying in UK homes was a third higher than in Ireland or Italy , about double that in France and Sweden , and 13 times higher than in Germany .
If we look at Scotland as an individual nation and use the LSE 's analysis , the country 's care homes would see 5 % of deaths attributed to the pandemic .
However , the report notes that `` international comparisons are difficult '' due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are recorded , and variations in the definition of `` care home '' .
A Scottish government spokesman said `` the calculation uses a snapshot day and therefore does n't account for the flow ( in and out ) of care home residents across the year .
In our view , it provides at best a rough proxy measure '' .
One of the report 's authors , Dr David Henderson from Edinburgh Napier University , said nobody knows how many people in Scotland are in care homes at any given time and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us '' .
He added that the `` data gap '' had been `` cruelly exposed by the pandemic '' .
The Scottish government has pledged to review social care in the wake of coronavirus which had `` shone a light '' on areas that needed to be improved .
That review has been welcomed by Alan Wightman who is still trying to piece together how his mother Helen contracted coronavirus .
• SYMPTOMS : What are they and how to guard against them ?
• 40,000 DEATHS : Could they have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should you wear one ?
• TESTING : Who can get a test and how ?

Caring Homes - the private company that runs Scoonie House - said its residents were an "absolute priority", and everything had been done to keep them well. It had "proactively" sourced the right protective equipment for staff, engaged in routine testing and stopped new admissions.