bbcuk--2020-07-21--Coronavirus: The great contact-tracing apps mystery

Germany and Ireland have both trumpeted their success in rolling out contact-tracing apps .
But is there any evidence that they are doing what they are designed to do - warning people they could be infected with the virus ?
Not yet - and the privacy-conscious way in which they are designed could mean we will never know how effective they have been .
Last month , the UK government announced that it was abandoning a centralised NHS contact-tracing app for England and switching to a decentralised version , based on the Apple-Google toolkit .
This model has been favoured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes place on users ' smartphones rather on a central computer , providing a greater degree of anonymity .
But the government stressed that the new version would not arrive in a hurry , and Boris Johnson told the House of Commons that no country in the world had a functioning contact-tracing app .
The Leader of the Opposition , Labour 's Keir Starmer , immediately pointed to Germany , as did many others who disputed the prime minister 's claim .
Germany 's Corona-Warn-App was rolled out nationwide in June .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Institute provided an update on its progress , celebrating the fact that it had now been installed by around 16 million people .
`` A successful start that speaks for great interest and acceptance among the population , '' a statement from the app 's developer said .
Bear in mind , however , that there are 83 million Germans , and it is thought more than half of the population need to have an app before it is truly effective .
`` The app works '' added the institute 's president Prof @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say that about 500 app users had tested positive for the virus and `` had the opportunity to warn others via the app '' .
But he then said : `` We can not say exactly how many people were warned , because of the decentralised approach of the app . ''
In other words , we do not know whether the software is performing its key function .
To know how well your app is performing , it is also vital to understand whether it is producing a lot of false positives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , whether the software is failing to alert people who have been in close contact with an infected user , and sending warnings to those who have n't .
That 's important to know , because studies have indicated that Bluetooth is an unreliable way to determine the distance between two people in some common situations .
The Robert Koch Institute ( RKI ) told us it too did n't know because , once again , the log history it would need to tap into `` remains with the users , encrypted on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a workaround whether Germany 's manual contact tracers might provide RKI with a record of people who had come to their attention after being alerted by the app .
No , came the answer .
Local municipalities run manual contact tracing and do not share this information .
RKI added that it hoped scientific tests would eventually assess the app 's impact in the `` medium to long term '' , but had yet to work out how this would be achieved .
Its health department also pointed the finger at SwissCovid 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We hence have the same limitations in terms of statistics .
We do n't know - and have no way of finding out - the number of people warned by the app or any false positives/false negatives , '' a spokesman told the BBC .
No such caution from Cian Ó Maidín , whose firm Nearform is behind Ireland 's app .
Covid Tracker app was launched two weeks ago and has rapidly attracted 1.3 million users , about a third of Ireland 's smartphone users .
Nearform is also developing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which decided to go it alone after the NHS project hit trouble .
And Mr Ó Maidín suggested that other parts of the UK and major American states could also be customers soon .
`` This is a solved problem , '' he told the BBC .
`` We have a solution that works well , it 's been tested , it 's been verified .
We can get a government up and running from the point at which we kick off to launch in a month . ''
Later he diluted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfectly solved at this time '' but continued to brush off concerns about effectiveness .
`` We do n't have a full data set yet but the early data looks really positive , '' he said , directing us to Ireland 's health service HSE for a more detailed response .
We have actually been chasing them on this point for days , and will provide an update if we hear back .
• What went wrong with the England 's contact tracing app ?
As the Irish app is based on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it is not clear why it should generate more data .
Although there is one potential caveat : during the installation process , users are asked to agree to the collection of `` anonymous metrics '' about the `` effectiveness of contact-tracing processes '' .
In any case , Mr Ó Maidín says we should not be overly concerned about missed or bad matches .
`` The perfect should not be the enemy of the good , '' he says .
The problem is that with so little data exposed , can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There have also been problems with contact-tracing apps in other countries : • Downloads of Japan 's Contact-Confirming Application ( Cocoa ) have slowed , totalling 7.7 million on Monday - the country 's population is over 126 million .
A bug in the software had prevented users from being able to register testing positive for the virus , but this was fixed in an update released on 13 July .
But the Japan Times reports that since then only 27 positive cases have been registered via the app .
• Italy 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million Italians , falling far short of the government 's target - the country 's population is about 60 million .
Local authorities suggest there has been limited interest because the spread of the virus is perceived to be under control , but expect this to change if a second wave begins .
• Australia 's CovidSafe has yet to identify anyone that had not already been flagged by other contact-tracing efforts .
Zdnet reports that it also continues to be bedevilled by a series of flaws that have caused matches to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to unrelated devices .
One ex-medical official told local news the cost involved in developing and promoting the app had been 70 million Australian dollars ( $ 49m ; £38m ) .
• On Monday , France 's data watchdog wrote to the country 's government requesting changes be made to its StopCovid app , to make it compliant with privacy laws .
The last official update says it has been downloaded 2.3 million times .

To know how well your app is performing, it is also vital to understand whether it is producing a lot of false negatives or false positives - in bald terms, whether the software is failing to alert people who have been in close contact with an infected user, and sending warnings to those who haven't.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Coronavirus: Nineteen cases linked to test and trace call centre

A total of 19 positive cases of coronavirus have been linked to an outbreak that started at a Motherwell call centre , NHS Lanarkshire has said .
A statement released on Tuesday evening said 14 cases associated with the premises had been identified .
There have been a further five cases involving other people linked to those at the call centre .
Earlier on Tuesday , Nicola Sturgeon said 22 new cases had been detected in Scotland , with 14 in Lanarkshire .
The first minister said `` at least some of them '' were linked to the call centre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resilience meeting would consider the situation in Lanarkshire and whether any further action was required .
Ms Sturgeon added : `` These figures are a sharp reminder that the virus is circulating in Scotland and a reminder that if we allow it to , it will spread rapidly in social settings or workplaces . ''
Dr David Cromie , a consultant in public health medicine at NHS Lanarkshire , said : `` We are taking all of the necessary steps to identify those who may have been in contact with a confirmed case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of onward transmission to others .
`` We would like to reassure the local community that appropriate measures are being implemented . ''
The Sitel centre , where the call centre is based , has been closed and staff have been asked to get tested for coronavirus .
BBC Scotland has learned that staff have been told they will remain on full pay while the company puts arrangements in place .
The call centre had been carrying out contact tracing for NHS England .
• Live : Coronavirus in Scotland - new cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Scotland said `` almost all '' close contacts had been traced .
One call centre employee had raised concerns about staff breaching social distancing rules in communal areas while taking their breaks .
Speaking during the Scottish government 's daily briefing , Ms Sturgeon said the government had an expectation of business and employers that they would make sure that the advice was `` followed rigorously '' .
It was necessary for the protection and wellbeing of their own staff but also to avoid further workplace clusters , the first minister added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to `` reinforce that expectation '' with NHS England and other companies in Scotland .
Ms Sturgeon also announced that children aged under five would be eligible for coronavirus testing from Wednesday .
There have been no further deaths from Covid-19 in Scotland .
It is the third time in four days that the number of new coronavirus cases in Scotland has exceeded 20 , after 21 new cases were reported on Saturday and 23 on Sunday .
Ms Sturgeon said more than 25,000 tests were processed over the weekend so the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relatively low level .
But she said it did prove that the virus was still present in Scotland .
`` That said , a great deal of work is being done , not least through Test and Protect , to understand all of these cases , follow up contacts of them and make sure that all necessary and appropriate steps are being taken to break the chains of transmission , '' she added .
`` We all have a part to play in keeping this virus under control . ''
• SYMPTOMS : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against them ?
• 40,000 DEATHS : Could they have been prevented ?
• FACE MASKS : When should you wear one ?
• RULES : What can I now do - and what are the rules ?

"That said, a great deal of work is being done, not least through Test and Protect, to understand all of these cases, follow up contacts of them and make sure that all necessary and appropriate steps are being taken to break the chains of transmission," she added.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Coronavirus: How Joe Wicks' fitness workouts 'changed my life'

`` Before lockdown , I basically did no exercise , nothing whatsoever , '' says Vanessa Taylor , from Rochdale , Greater Manchester .
`` Now , I do it every day apart from Sunday . ''
The change has been Joe Wicks , she says - the fitness coach who 's became a household name for the free workouts he has live streamed every weekday during the coronavirus lockdown .
They were scaled back last month and now , after nearly four months , the workouts are set to end on Wednesday .
`` He 's changed so many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vanessa , 45 , who started the workouts with her family .
The children quickly got fed up , but she continued and lost weight .
`` It 's absolutely brilliant .
From day one , I have just kept going . ''
Above all , Vanessa praises the mental health benefits , and says it has helped her after the death of her mum .
`` It 's something to focus on , '' she says .
`` I 'm gutted tomorrow is the last day .
When everything goes back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because I feel physically and mentally better for it . ''
Wicks ' first workout began in late March , just hours before Boris Johnson went on to tell the UK it was entering lockdown .
Schools had already been closed for a few days and the sessions were billed as `` PE with Joe '' .
The following day , his second video was watched by nearly one million people , breaking a world record .
`` It 's not just for the kids , '' says Irene Santineer , 54 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's been life changing in a lot of ways . ''
Irene missed the first week of workouts - but was inspired by her twin Angela , who lives hundreds of miles away in Crieff , in Perth and Kinross .
`` She 's been doing it from day one , '' says Irene .
`` It 's been a fantastic way for us to stay accountable to each other and re-measure our fitness .
And there 's a little bit of a competition going on . ''
Irene does the workouts in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to work in a school .
`` It makes me feel so good , '' she says .
`` I do n't always want to do it .
It just gives me an energy boost and endorphins .
`` He 's got such an infectious personality that comes out in it . ''
The feel-good factor is also the main benefit for her , she says - but she is also fitter .
`` I can see the difference .
I 'm stronger , I can walk up a hill and not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has noticed how much better my fitness levels are . ''
Wicks ' fans are devoted : he says he 's received piles of letters and there have been repeated calls for him to be knighted or be made the BBC 's next Sports Personality of the Year .
And although the workouts were aimed at children while they were not able to go to school during lockdown , the workouts have been done by people of all ages .
At Longmoor Lodge Care Home in Nottingham , 79-year-old resident John was filmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need any persuading , '' home manager Barbara Parkinson says .
`` He just stood up and he even kind of took the lead . ''
Joe Wicks ' workout was put on in the home 's newly-installed smart TV - attracting the attention of the staff and the residents .
`` They do the chair-based exercises but they can be quite boring , so having something different and the staff taking part ...
Suddenly the frailest of people that you see are doing these exercises .
It was just fantastic .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Meanwhile , Romsey Primary School near Southampton is just one of the many schools that have used Wicks ' workouts during the lockdown .
`` It 's brilliant , '' says Year One teacher Faye Hill .
`` Some of them are doing full press ups .
I think it 's good for stamina , focus and it 's brought a sense of fun into the classroom .
It 's made the transition into full-time easier . ''
Kerry Finley , 41 , from Manchester says the daily videos helped her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On those days I do n't want to get out of bed , at nine o'clock I have to get downstairs .
It motivates me to start the day . ''
Although her children no longer take part in the full workouts , they still look out for their favourite moves and the non-physical parts .
`` It 's nice as it gives us something you can all do and all access .
It does n't discriminate .
You can do as much or as little as you like . ''
Wicks ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` infectious personality '' - have been mentioned repeatedly to researcher Dr Victoria Goodyear , who has been carrying out a national survey about how the lockdown has influenced young people 's activity and wellbeing .
`` The main thing is , it 's accessible , it 's free , it 's in short bite-size chunks , '' says Dr Goodyear , from the University of Birmingham , explaining why videos such as Wicks ' have become so popular .
`` It builds a sense of community , people would say 'it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It goes along with the NHS clapping or Captain Tom Moore . ''
She adds Wicks ' videos are very polished , but also portray his personality .
`` Because of that warmness , it reduced feelings of isolation , and he provided a personal touch that was engaging .
`` It also prompted people who were inactive before to take part , and for some of those who are already active , to try a different type of activity . ''
• What your gym could look like when it reopens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PE teacher - and praised for getting so many people into high-intensity interval training , a type of cardio exercise that focuses on short bursts of intense activity .
But some academics from the University of Loughborough are concerned that physical education is different to physical activity and people should n't think a high-profile fitness trainer could replace a PE teacher .
`` Whilst Joe Wicks was brilliant in getting young people into physical activity at the time of lockdown , that can be a great thing and great in terms of mental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's PE , '' says Dr Julie Stirrup .
`` We do n't want people to see PE as just watching Joe Wicks , '' she says .
`` PE is much more . ''
She says PE develops broad skills and competence .
Many of Wicks ' fans are simply grateful for his sessions .
`` I just think if he 's reading the article , it 's just a big thank you to what he 's done , '' says Kerry .
`` He 's done it for months and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He 's helped people cope with the lockdown . ''

Although her children no longer take part in the full workouts, they still look out for their favourite moves and the non-physical parts. "It's nice as it gives us something you can all do and all access. It doesn't discriminate. You can do as much or as little as you like."


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Tokyo Olympics postponement leaves UK firms in limbo

The world of sport has been severely disrupted by Covid-19 , with headlines highlighting everything from cancelled events and empty stadiums , to athlete health and spectator safety .
But the pandemic has also had a huge knock-on effect on businesses that support the sport industry - and nowhere is that more apparent than around the Tokyo 2020 Olympics .
The Games , originally due to start on Friday , have been delayed until summer 2021 , affecting UK firms who had been fortunate enough to win work .
British companies were set to provide parts for water sport courses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and Olympic venue construction - not to mention softer services such as sponsorship expertise .
Two of the bigger affected firms are ES Global and Aggreko Events Services .
Glasgow-based Aggreko is the only British firm among the 66 official Tokyo Olympic partners and sponsors , and has been part of the Games since Seoul 1988 , providing generators .
Its initial Tokyo contract value was around $ 200m ( £158m ) and Aggreko said earlier this year it expected that to increase to around $ 250m .
It has received more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as the Japanese hosts continue to deliver scheduled instalments .
Robert Wells is the managing director of Aggreko Events Services .
`` A postponement is much better than a cancellation , '' he says .
`` At the moment we are in detailed conversations with the Games ' organising committee .
There is a huge logistics operation to reschedule things . ''
He said Aggreko was now removing generating equipment it had already installed in some Olympic venues .
They will go back to Aggreko 's facility in Tokyo , stored , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ready for next year .
`` Clearly there will be a cost of delay , '' Mr Wells adds .
`` But we ca n't quantify that at the moment .
We are talking continuously with the organising committee about what it may be . ''
As well as generators , Aggreko is also supplying the likes of power cabling , plus electricity from existing Japanese power grids .
The firm will be employing some 500 contractors in the run-up to the Games , and 300 during the event .
Meanwhile , London-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for six events : triathlon , shooting , golf , tennis , rowing and hockey .
`` Although organisers have made statements that the Games are only postponed , there are contradictory statements coming out at a lower political level - there is a certain level of uncertainty , '' says Olly Watts , joint chief executive of ESG .
`` It has been made clear there are circumstances under which the Games could be cancelled , depending on how the virus continues in Japan and worldwide .
`` Our existing contract has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He says the firm is waiting to see if the Tokyo organisers are going to come up with new contracts , now the event is taking place in 2021 .
`` Any changes will be slow to filter down , '' he says .
`` With regard to our existing contracts , my feeling is they will be honoured . ''
ESG had started installing venues , for example , 99 % of the shooting venue was in place when the Games were called off in March .
The others all had equipment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Shooting is largely being left up .
With the others , all equipment is being stored on site .
Olympic Games organisers say they are renegotiating existing contracts `` for example , with regards to fulfilment periods and delivery dates '' and are also `` newly procuring other items that will be required '' .
It is not just big-name firms who have been affected by the postponement .
Smaller UK firms are hoping to showcase their expertise to the Japanese and wider sporting world .
For founder Bill Fellowes , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be his third Olympics after London 2012 and Rio 2016 .
His ambulances are manufactured in the UK and the firm provides them to 17 British racecourses and the Middle East .
`` For Tokyo these will be our first trailers to have air-conditioning because of the temperatures there , '' he says .
Equisave is providing six vehicles , with two non-air conditioned vehicles already shipped for test events in Japan last year , and the four high-tech ambulances set to follow .
`` My contract originally said to ship the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were cancelled before then .
`` In my line of work it is financially feast or famine , and we could n't afford to sit on the ambulances for a year .
`` So we came to an arrangement .
As long as the Games organisers would pay for the cost of the ambulances in full - which they have done - we will store them here in the UK free for them . ''
The remaining ambulances will now be shipped next year .
Despite the uncertainty , one small UK firm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Olympic installations .
Cumbria-based RapidBlocs makes large blocks to be used in the canoe slalom event .
Its equipment has been installed into the concrete course in central Tokyo 's Kasai Rinkai Park .
Company founder Andy Laird says large blocks - made from polyethylene and steel - are put onto the concrete base of a canoe course .
The blocks then `` sculpt '' the direction and flow of water .
`` We are all paid for .
We made it , shipped it , and then installed .
The trial event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great . ''
As well as Tokyo 2020 , he has also already installed the canoe slalom course for the 2024 Games in Paris .
`` We completed that in May 2019 , '' he says .
`` We are done and dusted for the next two Olympics .
That is four Olympics we have supplied now . ''
Away from infrastructure , Len Olender is from True Gold Communications , an agency that helps sponsors and sports bodies with their Olympic marketing programmes .
He has previously worked with the likes of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Now on his 14th winter and summer games , he has been helping the Oceania National Olympic Committees ( ONOC ) .
`` We had secured a wonderful plaza at Tokyo harbour for our showcase Oceania Village in partnership with the city of Tokyo , '' he says .
But the postponement means it is not known if the site will be available next year .
It is hoped that the project will pick up again early next year , but Mr Olender does not know if there will be funding to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a potential silver lining to the Olympics ' delay .
Games partners will have the opportunity to activate their sponsor programmes in a different way , taking account of things like social distancing and AI technology - which could create opportunities .
Also , Tokyo 2021 organisers might want to sell the Games as part of the global `` rebirth '' of the sporting world after coronavirus .
`` This could mean heightened interest to be on the Olympic bandwagon , and hence more opportunities for marketing agencies , and sponsorship @ @ @

"So we came to an arrangement. As long as the Games organisers would pay for the cost of the ambulances in full - which they have done - we will store them here in the UK free for them."


bbcuk--2020-07-21--How deep are Britain and China's economic ties?

The economic relationship between the UK and China has grown significantly over the past two decades .
In 1999 , China was the UK 's 26th biggest export market .
It now sits in sixth place .
Trade between the two countries hit a record high last year , with large infrastructure projects and education playing major roles .
But as tensions rise between London and Beijing - following the UK government 's U-turn on using Huawei telecoms 5G equipment in the country 's networks - the ties that have benefited both nations may now be under threat .
Last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sixth largest export market , worth £30.7bn , according to the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) .
This was a record high , up from £23.4bn in 2018 , and the fourth year-on-year increase in a row .
In the other direction , China was the UK 's fourth largest source of imports , worth £49bn , also a record high .
China also plays an increasingly important role in the UK 's infrastructure , including its nuclear power capabilities .
China General Nuclear Power ( CGN ) is partly financing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear power station in Somerset .
The state-owned Chinese group also has an option to buy 20 % of another planned plant , at Sizewell in Suffolk , and a majority stake in an entity looking into several more nuclear power projects .
China 's state-run sovereign wealth fund China Investment Corporation ( CIC ) has an 8.7 % stake in Thames Water , along with a 10 % stake in the firm that owns London 's Heathrow Airport .
China also has a stake in the UK 's North Sea oil production @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( CNOOC ) .
The number of Chinese students at UK universities has more than trebled since 2006 , according to the National Institute of Economics and Social Research ( NIESR ) .
Tuition fees from Chinese students add up to at least £1.7bn a year across universities and independent schools .
Experts have warned that UK universities will struggle financially if China imposes a ban on its students coming to Britain .
`` As Chinese students account for the largest body of foreign students , the financial impact would be large '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intelligence firm Emerging Strategy .
`` Universities will need to adjust their costs or find new ways to generate revenue . ''
But the British Council has downplayed fears of a mass exodus of Chinese students .
`` Long-term planning to study abroad is unlikely to be affected by short-term political relations .
The UK has always been one of the top destinations for Chinese students , '' a spokesman told the BBC .
China has been active in many high-profile acquisitions in the UK , resulting in billions of pounds flowing into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was taken over by China 's Jingye Group in a move expected to save more than 3,000 jobs .
The Chinese firm said it would invest more than £1bn to help modernise the steelworks .
Other notable takeovers include black cab maker LTI , which was bought by Chinese carmaker Geely , and Wolverhampton Wanderers football club , which was taken over by Chinese conglomerate Fosun International .
Technology firm Huawei 's investment in the UK is a high-profile and a long-standing one , dating back to 2005 .
While Huawei will no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new 5G equipment , it still has involvement in existing telecoms infrastructure .
While much of the talk has been around Huawei , it 's not the only technology company that the UK and China share links with .
China 's thirst for high tech UK companies saw it take over chipmaker Imagination Technologies in 2017 .
The vast majority of the cash for the purchase came from the Beijing-backed China Reform investment fund .
While most of the flow is money into the UK from Chinese companies and government-backed entities , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in China , a country of 1.4 billion people with rapidly-growing disposable incomes .
Significant British companies are spread across sectors such as energy , car production , pharmaceuticals and financial services Last year , China 's ambassador to Germany threatened `` consequences '' for its carmakers if Huawei was blocked from Germany 's 5G networks , raising concerns that Beijing may use such tactics against other countries ' interests .
`` Chinese citizens are prompt to follow boycotts based on national interests dictated by the party , '' said a Shanghai-based spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Steven Lynch , managing director of the British Chamber of Commerce in China told the BBC that he was optimistic that such a situation could be avoided .
`` We hope that British automotive manufacturers who both import vehicles into China and manufacture locally will not be targeted for the UK government 's decision , '' he said .
The pro-business group warned that British telecoms and IT companies could also potentially be at risk .
But Mr Lynch added that the two countries should be able to `` sustain robust trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the challenging political environment '' .

"The rising hostility between the UK and China is unlikely to have a strong effect on the leading components of their trade. The major effect is likely to be on UK higher education and the role of the UK as a hub for Chinese companies."


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Birmingham designer creates PPE for men with turbans

From 24 July , face masks are to become compulsory in shops in England where masks on public transport have @ @ @ @ @ The shops and supermarket mandate brings England into line with Scotland , and NHS sites @ @ @ @ @ as mask-wearers are finding out , one size does not fit all .
For instance @ @ @ @ @ turbans or long beards do ?
Sunnie Delilah , a designer from Birmingham , has @ @ @ @ @ after seeing her Sikh father-in-law struggle .
After posting her creation on social media , @ @ @ @ @ orders .

From 24 July, face masks are to become compulsory in shops in England where masks on public transport have been required since mid-June.
The shops and supermarket mandate brings England into line with Scotland, and NHS sites across the UK.
But as mask-wearers are finding out, one size does not fit all. For instance, what do men with turbans or long beards do?
Sunnie Delilah, a designer from Birmingham, has been working on the problem after seeing her Sikh father-in-law struggle.
After posting her creation on social media, she has been receiving international orders.
Produced by Pria Rai, BBC Asian Network. Filmed by Geoff Ward


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Views from new North Yorkshire to Cumbria tourist train

A new tourist train hopes to help revitalise the industry in post-lockdown Britain .
The aptly-named Staycation Express runs from @ @ @ @ @ Appleby , Cumbria .
It 's a private venture , so face coverings are not @ @ @ @ @ do wear them .

A new tourist train hopes to help revitalise the industry in post-lockdown Britain.
The aptly-named Staycation Express runs from Skipton in North Yorkshire to Appleby, Cumbria.
It's a private venture, so face coverings are not mandatory - though many guests do wear them.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--AO.com boss: 'Behave as if your mum is watching'

John Roberts , founder of white goods retailer AO.com , explains how he uses family values to inspire his employees @ @ @ @ @ CEO Secrets series .
Find more business tips at CEO Secrets .
You can also @ @ @ @ @ BBC News app by adding the topic 'CEO Secrets ' in My News .

John Roberts, founder of white goods retailer AO.com, explains how he uses family values to inspire his employees, as part of our CEO Secrets series.
Video by series producer Dougal Shaw
Find more business tips at CEO Secrets. You can also follow the series on the BBC News app by adding the topic 'CEO Secrets' in My News.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Russian interference: UK government 'didn't take action to protect the UK'

A report by the UK Parliament Intelligence and Security Committee says the government was `` slow to recognise the threat @ @ @ @ @ so did not take action to protect the UK from possible interference in the 2016 @ @ @ @ @ a press conference , the SNP 's Stewart Hosie , a member of the committee @ @ @ @ @ be an assessment of what role , if any , Russia played .

A report by the UK Parliament Intelligence and Security Committee says the government was "slow to recognise the threat" posed by Russian, so did not take action to protect the UK from possible interference in the 2016 EU referendum.
Speaking at a press conference, the SNP's Stewart Hosie, a member of the committee, called for there to be an assessment of what role, if any, Russia played.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Ipswich town centre traders face 'dire' lack of customers

Two Ipswich town centre businesses say they are struggling to make ends meet since lockdown was lifted , blaming a @ @ @ @ @ customers .
The owner of Watts For Lunch cafe said trade was down by about @ @ @ @ @ lack of office workers .
Carole Emery from The Dress Circle clothes shop said she @ @ @ @ @ customers at all .
`` It 's dire , actually .
I 'm hoping it @ @ @ @ @ , '' she said .
The government said it wanted office staff to return to @ @ @ @ @ and promised to unveil new safety guidelines for firms on 1 August .

Two Ipswich town centre businesses say they are struggling to make ends meet since lockdown was lifted, blaming a "dire" lack of customers.
The owner of Watts For Lunch cafe said trade was down by about two thirds due to a lack of office workers.
Carole Emery from The Dress Circle clothes shop said she had some days with no customers at all. "It's dire, actually. I'm hoping it's going to get busier," she said.
The government said it wanted office staff to return to boost spending in town centres and promised to unveil new safety guidelines for firms on 1 August.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Newspaper headlines: 'Welcome to Londongrad' and Pompeo attacks WHO

The Daily Telegraph leads with remarks by visiting US secretary of state Mike Pompeo , who the paper says told @ @ @ @ @ World Health Organization has been effectively `` bought '' by China .
The paper also @ @ @ @ @ to abandoning hope of Brexit trade deal , with the working assumption now that the @ @ @ @ @ EU on World Trade Organisation terms after 31 December .

The front of the Times suggests such moves may be on the way. "MI5 to get more powers" is the headline. Its leader column suggests that the Official Secrets Act is "outdated" and should be overhauled.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Coronavirus: NHS nurses told 'lives would be made hell'

Hospital nurses were told their `` lives would be made hell '' if they complained over conditions on a coronavirus ward , a union has claimed .
Unison has raised a group grievance for 36 employees , most of them nurses , at Nottingham University Hospitals Trust .
It said staff on the Queen 's Medical Centre ward were not trained properly , faced bullying for raising concerns and denied PPE `` as punishment '' .
The trust said the allegations were `` very troubling '' .
The union said the staff , which included nurses , senior nurses and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hospital 's only ward dealing with end-of-life coronavirus patients .
It claimed they were not given any specialist training or counselling for dealing with dying patients and their grieving relatives .
An anonymous member of staff described it as `` incredibly stressful '' .
`` Normally , the palliative care team who deal with end-of-life patients handle 200 deaths each year - we dealt with 185 in just 10 weeks , '' they said .
`` People doing that job normally receive high levels of training and support because of the stress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Dave Ratchford , from Unison , said staff were unprepared for dealing with such high frequency of death and should have had access to psychological support .
He said after the team raised concerns , management were `` hostile '' and locked away PPE `` as punishment '' .
• Latest news and stories from the East Midlands Another worker said a board with everyone 's record of sickness was put on display in a break room to intimidate staff .
`` We 're talking about a very high-performing team who fell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and fails to address it .
`` Staff were told their lives would be made hell for complaining . ''
The team said they had experienced the treatment from April , during the peak of the coronavirus crisis , until this month .
Dr Neil Pease , of the trust , said he was `` disappointed '' to hear about the concerns and added : `` We greatly value our staff for the incredible dedication and resilience they have shown during the pandemic .
`` They have done amazing things in the face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hear of these grievances is very troubling indeed .
`` Bullying and harassment are not tolerated in our organisation . ''
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Dr Neil Pease, of the trust, said he was "disappointed" to hear about the concerns and added: "We greatly value our staff for the incredible dedication and resilience they have shown during the pandemic.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Policeman seriously injured after car driven at him in Glasgow

A police officer has been taken to hospital with serious injuries after he was driven at during an investigation .
@ @ @ @ @ , was in plain clothes when the incident happened in Glasgow 's west end .
@ @ @ @ @ the scene on Devonshire Gardens at about 17:50 on Tuesday evening .
A 53-year-old man @ @ @ @ @ arrested , was also taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital .
A second man @ @ @ @ @ also been arrested .
The police constable 's injuries have been described as serious but @ @ @ @ @ of the 53-year-old who was also taken to hospital has also been described as serious @ @ @ @ @ Insp Clark Hill said : `` Plain clothed officers were in the Devonshire Gardens area @ @ @ @ @ an ongoing investigation when a disturbance happened around 17:50 on Tuesday .
`` During the @ @ @ @ @ in the investigation was driven at one male officer .
Inquiries are ongoing . ''

The condition of the 53-year-old who was also taken to hospital has also been described as serious but not life-threatening.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Coronavirus: BMA calls for pay rise for NI doctors

The British Medical Association ( BMA ) in NI has urged the health minister to give doctors a pay uplift .
Doctors in England , Scotland and Wales were awarded a 2.8 % increase on Tuesday .
Delays to the pay awards process for doctors and dentists in NI have been criticised in a official report .
The Department of Health said Robin Swann is keen to see this year 's pay award `` resolved more quickly than has been the case in recent years '' .
The Review Body on Doctors ' and Dentists ' Remuneration ( DDRB ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` delays to the pay award process in Northern Ireland continue to be unacceptable '' .
`` The pay award for 2018-19 was only made in November 2019 , more than halfway through the following financial year , and almost 18 months after the DDRB made its recommendations .
`` That the 2019-20 financial year 's pay award has , at the time of writing , still not been implemented is similarly unacceptable .
`` We expect pay awards to be made in a timely fashion following the submission of our reports , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Northern Ireland for some time . ''
The chair of the BMA in Northern Ireland said the delay `` has impacted morale and contributed to lack of pay parity '' .
`` The last four months of the Covid-19 pandemic will have been one of the most stressful periods of doctors ' working lives and yet they responded to it with commitment , hard work and innovation , '' said Dr Tom Black .
`` Willingly working long , unsociable hours away from their loved ones and putting their own wellbeing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Doctors and other frontline health service workers will be called on again to work above and beyond for our health service during what will be the busiest winter period it might see yet .
`` The very least the Department of Health can do is to recognise these efforts by implementing the 2020/21 pay uplift in a timely fashion . ''
• Coronavirus not over by Christmas , experts warn A spokesperson for the Department of Health said : `` The minister wants those on the health and social care frontline in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work and commitment .
`` Decisions on public sector pay awards are taken in the context of the annual public sector pay policy set by the Department of Finance . ''
A Department of Finance spokesperson said that while NI departments provide evidence to the pay review bodies , there is a local discretion by executive ministers as to the application of their recommendations .
`` This will also be considered in the context of local pay policy . ''

"The last four months of the Covid-19 pandemic will have been one of the most stressful periods of doctors' working lives and yet they responded to it with commitment, hard work and innovation," said Dr Tom Black.


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Coronavirus: Lockdown could lead to 'layered' mental health issues

People who did not access mental health support during lockdown could now be overwhelmed by `` layered '' issues , a consultant psychologist has warned .
Dr Bob Colgate , of Bridgend 's Princess of Wales Hospital , said demand `` changed abruptly '' with fewer seeking help while also facing isolation and stress .
Mental health charity Hafal has called for a clear plan for health boards .
Welsh Government said it had provided `` clear information '' on sustaining services during the pandemic .
Concerns among health care professionals include people not coming forward for help as they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of referrals and people asking for assistance dropped hugely , '' said Dr Colgate .
`` Our concern is that people with mental health concerns are not presenting .
They are not coming to hospital , which is understandable , [ but ] they are also not accessing their GP . ''
He said there were now concerns about an increase in patients who would have been seen three or four months ago under normal conditions .
`` Some of those patients will potentially be more unwell or more complex than they otherwise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There are a lot of issues now , such as anxiety , depression associated with loneliness or isolation , or concerns about jobs and finances .
All these things could be layered on top of the normal problems . ''
At the height of the pandemic , a health board in north Wales wrongly discharged almost 1,700 patients from mental health support services .
In May , Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board ( BCUHB ) was forced to apologise after it advised people to seek new mental health support referrals once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimated between 200 and 300 patients were affected but it later emerged the true figure was 1,694 .
Hafal chief executive Alun Thomas said : `` We have seen some situations where services have been shut where they should n't have been shut , and that has been addressed and dealt with .
`` The key is that these seven health boards have needed the guidance from the government so the health boards then work to a plan , rather than the health boards trying to devise plans and then get them checked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The health board staff have been working very , very hard during this period .
But unless the Welsh Government had set a series of priorities - for example , how quickly someone should get a response during Covid - it is very difficult for those health boards to come up with a map . ''
In response the Welsh Government said it already provided `` clear information '' and the NHS had to prepare for a potential second peak .
A spokesperson said : `` The Quarterly Operating Frameworks for the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 , to maintain essential services and to resume routine services over time .
`` For mental health , it builds on the essential services framework which provides clear information on which mental health services need to be maintained during the pandemic .
We are working with a range of mental health partners to strengthen support as part of our recovery planning . ''

"The health board staff have been working very, very hard during this period. But unless the Welsh Government had set a series of priorities - for example, how quickly someone should get a response during covid - it is very difficult for those health boards to come up with a map."


bbcuk--2020-07-21--Hakim Sillah death: Teen stabbed at knife awareness course

A young offender stabbed another teenager to death at a community centre while on a knife awareness course , a court has heard .
The 17-year-old boy , who can not be named , knifed Hakim Sillah , 18 , twice in the chest at the west London centre on 7 November last year , Isleworth Crown Court was told .
Prosecutors said there was `` a cruel irony '' that Mr Sillah was stabbed while attending a weapons awareness course .
He also denies two counts of wounding with intent and one count of unlawful wounding .
Michelle Nelson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Hillingdon Civic Centre had been risk assessed before the session , which was run by the Youth Offending Teams ( YOTS ) , and `` those classified as high risk were precluded from attending '' .
`` Both the young men must have been risk assessed , but the sad reality is that both attended that course carrying knives , '' she said .
Mr Sillah was stabbed twice in the chest and had defensive injuries on his hands from trying to take control of the blade , Ms Nelson said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ after in hospital .
Pathologists found the proximity of the two chest wounds was `` consistent with a rapid sequence of infliction '' and indicated the use of `` substantial force '' , the court heard .
A `` sheathed Rambo knife '' was also found three days after the stabbing in an area of woodland close to the defendant 's home .
The defendant 's blood and DNA was found on the weapon and DNA from the victim was also present , jurors were told .
`` That defendant does not dispute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Ms Nelson said .
`` He says he did not intend to kill or to cause really serious harm and told the police in his caution interview that he had acted in lawful self-defence .
[ He ] had intended to stab Hakim Sillah in the arm , but he moved .
`` The prosecution say the defendant took a deliberate decision to stab the deceased to the chest twice , we say , lawful self-defence does not arise . ''

"He says he did not intend to kill or to cause really serious harm and told the police in his caution interview that he had acted in lawful self-defence. [He] had intended to stab Hakim Sillah in the arm, but he moved.


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Immunity rule changed in wake of Harry Dunn death

The UK and the US have agreed to amend an `` anomaly '' that allowed Harry Dunn death suspect Anne @ @ @ @ @ .
A court hearing last month heard the `` secret agreement '' permitted Mrs Sacoolas @ @ @ @ @ the 19-year-old 's death last August .
He was killed in a crash near RAF @ @ @ @ @ to the Press Association ( PA ) , Harry 's mother Charlotte Charles said the @ @ @ @ @ step forward '' .
She said the family 's campaign for Mrs Sacoolas - the @ @ @ @ @ official at RAF Croughton - to return to the UK would continue .

In short, had a US official, rather than his or her spouse, been behind the wheel of the car that was involved in a crash, they may have had to face police questioning and potential criminal charge. This sad and bizarre legal mistake has now been corrected - and officials appear confident there are no other similar anomalies elsewhere that could stand in the way of justice.


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Russia report: UK considers tougher security laws after criticism by MPs

Ministers are considering strengthening security laws after a report by MPs accused them of underestimating the threat of Russian interference .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said a new law requiring foreign agents to register in the UK was being looked at .
He said the move would not be the `` only solution '' to security threats , but could make it easier to extradite spies .
Labour criticised `` systemic failings '' in the UK 's response to Russia .
Mr Shapps said the government was already taking a `` more forward-leaning approach '' but also thought the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Plans to make foreign agents register were mentioned in the government 's legislative agenda last December , and were previously announced by former home secretary Sajid Javid in May last year .
Speaking on Radio 4 's Today programme , Mr Shapps said registration `` might be very useful '' , although he cautioned it was `` not the entire answer '' to dealing with threats .
The government , which will have to answer questions on the issue in the Commons later , faces calls to do far more to counter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Intelligence and Security Committee ( ISC ) said the UK was the main target after the US and Nato .
In a 50-page report , the committee said the UK was `` clearly a target '' for disinformation campaigns around its elections , but that the issue was described as a `` hot potato '' , with no one organisation taking a lead to tackle it .
ISC member Kevan Jones told BBC Breakfast he hoped any government announcement about new legislation - which was one of the recommendations of the report - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually resulted in action .
The committee suggested a new Espionage Act could help prevent individuals acting on behalf of a foreign power from concealing their links with that country .
In its report , it said an obligation similar to that in the US - where agents are required to register with the Justice department - would `` clearly be valuable in countering Russian influence in the UK '' .
If you do not seek , you do not find .
Whether deliberate or deficient , the Intelligence and Security Committee 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK 's handling of the threat from Russia .
For years , it seems a lack of priority , and a lack of curiosity , allowed the risks to go unmonitored , if not to go unchecked .
The UK government has now stiffened its attitude to Putin 's Russia .
The MPs ' report claimed the government made no effort to investigate claims of Russian interference in the EU referendum and criticised intelligence agencies for not giving the issue more attention .
And it said the government only `` belatedly realised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pose '' after the so-called `` hack and leak '' operation against the Democrats in the 2016 US election , calling it a `` game changer '' .
Labour will later use an Urgent Question in Parliament to highlight what it says are multiple `` shortcomings '' in the UK 's national security policy shown up by the report .
Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said the government had failed to offer the UK 's security services `` the strategic support , the legislative tools or the resources necessary '' to defend the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour would support the government if it brought forward measures recommended in the report - such as new legislation and working with online companies to ensure they act `` swiftly to deal with hostile state activity on their platforms '' .
He told Radio 4 's Today that the report `` draws extraordinarily stark conclusions about the failure of our government '' and its significance must not be `` underestimated '' .
`` There was no single minister , no single government department that was responsible for the protection of our democracy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has to change . ''
The government has rejected the committee 's call for a full assessment by intelligence agencies of potential Russian meddling in the 2016 EU referendum , saying it had `` seen no evidence of successful interference '' .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said on Tuesday : `` We 've been clear that Russia must desist from its attacks on the UK and our allies .
`` We will be resolute in defending our country , our democracy and our values from such hostile state activity . ''
Mr Raab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP Stewart Hosie , a member of the ISC , that the government `` actively avoided '' looking for evidence of Russian interference .
Downing Street was accused of holding back the report ahead of December 's UK election and for delaying its nominations to set up the new committee - both claims it has denied .
• I MAY DESTROY YOU : The groundbreaking drama making headlines in lockdown

Urging ministers to treat the issue with the "seriousness it deserves", he added: "I thank the security services for the work they do but they need help. This report makes clear they have not received the strategic support, legislative tools or resources necessary to defend our interests."


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Anti-Semitism: Labour pays damages for 'hurt' to whistleblowers

Labour has agreed to pay `` substantial '' damages to seven former employees who sued the party in an anti-Semitism row .
The party has issued an unreserved apology in the High Court for making `` false and defamatory '' comments about seven whistleblowers who spoke out in a BBC Panorama programme last year .
The individuals had criticised the then leadership 's handling of complaints .
Labour said they were wrongly accused of `` bad faith '' and caused `` distress , embarrassment and hurt '' by the party .
The BBC 's assistant political editor Norman Smith said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' and underlined leader Sir Keir Starmer 's determination to get to grips with the shadow of anti-Semitism hanging over the party .
In the July 2019 programme , entitled Is Labour Anti-Semitic ?
, a number of former party officials alleged that senior figures close to the leadership at the time had interfered in the process of dealing with anti-Semitism complaints .
They also claimed they had faced a huge increase in complaints since Jeremy Corbyn became leader in 2015 .
In response , a party spokesman denounced them as `` disaffected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and political axes '' to grind .
They were also accused of trying to undermine Mr Corbyn .
Seven of the whistleblowers - Kat Buckingham , Michael Creighton , Samuel Matthews , Dan Hogan , Louise Withers Green , Benjamin Westerman and Martha Robinson - took legal action and asked the Labour Party formally to apologise in court .
In a statement read out in the High Court , Labour said it unreservedly apologised and was determined to root out anti-Semitism in the party and the wider Labour movement .
`` Before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party issued a press release that contained defamatory and false allegations about these whistleblowers , '' the party said .
`` We acknowledge the many years of dedicated and committed service that the whistleblowers have given to the Labour Party as members and as staff .
We appreciate their valuable contribution at all levels of the party .
`` We unreservedly withdraw all allegations of bad faith , malice and lying .
We would like to apologise unreservedly for the distress , embarrassment and hurt caused by their publication .
We have agreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has also agreed to pay damages to the presenter of the programme , BBC journalist John Ware .
It said Mr Ware , an award-winning investigative reporter who has worked for the BBC for more than 30 years , was subject to `` false and defamatory '' comments before the programme was aired which had now been withdrawn .
Shadow Attorney General Lord Falconer , who was attending court on the behalf of the Labour Party , told the BBC the settlement had brought a `` disastrous chapter '' to an end .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the party 's `` long-overdue '' apology for what were `` painful and damaging personal attacks '' on the integrity and character of those involved in the programme .
It said Mr Ware was a `` reporter with an extraordinary record of excellence at Panorama for investigative journalism in the public interest '' .
`` The BBC will always support fair and impartial reporting , exposing wrongdoing and holding power to account , '' the corporation said .
`` The Panorama programme did precisely that , but was subject to an extraordinary and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The BBC said it `` applauded the strength '' of the whistleblowers and was `` pleased it has been recognised in court that these extremely serious and damaging allegations against them were false '' .
The legal settlement was welcomed by current and former Jewish Labour MPs , including Margaret Hodge and Ruth Smeeth , the latter describing the whistleblowers are `` heroes '' .
Labour MP Chris Bryant told the BBC that the party had been `` dragged through the mud '' and he `` really hoped this can a moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jewish Labour Movement said the Panorama programme had `` shone a light on the party 's failure to act '' against anti-Jewish racism and the `` growing culture of denial '' within its ranks .
`` Under new leadership , our hope is the party will continue to demonstrate this willingness to change , '' it said .
But Unite general secretary Len McCluskey described the settlement as a `` misuse '' of party 's funds , suggesting Labour had been advised that it would win the case .
For Labour , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The leadership may hope that is a price well worth paying if it signals the beginning of the end of the anti-Semitism row that has caused real division in the party over the last few years .
But will it ?
For those unhappy with the party 's previous handling of the issue , the apology sets down a marker that it really is 'under new management ' .
For some of those who were quite happy with the old leadership , though , this is going to rankle and some are already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certainly a big moment for Labour but there a likely to be many more before this issue is put to bed .
Mr McCluskey and other allies of Mr Corbyn , who stood down in the Spring after four years leading the party , had urged Sir Keir Starmer to contest the lawsuit .
The BBC 's Laura Kuenssberg tweeted that `` last minute legal wrangling by lawyers for some of former Labour leadership team did n't stop the apology and settlements going ahead '' .
Since being elected in April , Sir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitment to root out anti-Semitism , committing to implement in full the recommendations of an inquiry by the equality watchdog into Labour 's culture and internal procedures due out in September .
He recently sacked Rebecca Long-Bailey from the shadow cabinet for re-tweeting an article containing what he regarded as a conspiracy theory .

"You either accept and shrug your shoulders when people call you a liar and say you fabricated evidence and deliberately promoted falsehoods - as the Labour Party did - or you decide to do something about it. So I decided to do something about it."


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Scotland's Covid deaths fall to 'lowest level'

Deaths linked to coronavirus in Scotland have fallen to the lowest level since the start of the pandemic , with @ @ @ @ @ week .
New figures from the National Records of Scotland showed the number of deaths @ @ @ @ @ in a row .
The virus was mentioned on six death certificates in the week @ @ @ @ @ At the peak of the outbreak in April , more than 600 deaths were being @ @ @ @ @ to Covid-19 .
The NRS said there had been a `` significant decline '' in @ @ @ @ @ which were now at `` the lowest weekly total since the pandemic began '' .
@ @ @ @ @ being updated and more details will be published shortly .
Please refresh the page for @ @ @ @ @ can receive Breaking News on a smartphone or tablet via the BBC News App .
@ @ @ @ @ BBCBreaking on Twitter to get the latest alerts .

Across the period of the pandemic, the number of deaths in care homes has been 54% above the five-year average, and the number of deaths at home or in non-institutional settings 53% above average. However after an early peak, hospital deaths fell back to average in May and are now below average levels overall.


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Coronavirus: UK passport application backlog reaches 400,000

A backlog of more than 400,000 passport applications has mounted due to disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic , figures show .
Home Office minister Baroness Williams said reduced staffing to allow social distancing meant forms were taking longer to process .
She said steps were being taken to increase capacity after travel restrictions were eased .
But those applying may have to wait longer than the usual three weeks .
Asked how long it would take to clear the backlog , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told BBC Breakfast he did not know - `` it 's not quite my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office was working hard to clear it .
The Passport Office is advising only people going away before September or those travelling on compassionate grounds should apply now for a passport .
• Is the new passport really blue or black ?
• Sun , sea and sanitiser : What your holiday will be like • Where can I now go on holiday in the UK ?
In a written Parliamentary answer about the backlog , Baroness Williams said the Passport Office `` continues to operate at reduced staffing levels so its people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She added : `` It is therefore taking longer than usual to process passport applications .
`` As part of its contingency arrangements , HM Passport Office is rapidly increasing its capacity for processing passport applications , in line with public health guidance , which will help to ensure it continues to meet the travel needs of its customers . ''
As of 7 July , she said , work was under way on about 126,000 passport applications - 31 % higher than at the same period last year .
'All I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his mum 's funeral' '' It 's desperate , '' says Adrian Haines , from Crawley , who is fast running out of time to renew his son 's passport .
On Saturday , 16-year-old Jonathan 's mum , Madalen , 49 , died of a heart attack in France as she was preparing a holiday home for guests .
Now Adrian , who is separated from Madalen , is doing everything he can to get his son to his mother 's funeral on Friday .
`` I sent the passport people an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them Monday morning , I eventually got a call back midday , the guy took all my details for processing an emergency passport - I do n't think he realised the urgency .
`` I had a gut feeling this was going nowhere , so I put a plea on my Facebook and contacted my MP , Henry Smith .
`` He assured me he 'd do absolutely everything he could . ''
Still waiting for promising news , Adrian has rebooked the Eurotunnel twice and is considering travelling tonight , with only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give Jonathan the chance to see his mother 's body .
`` Thursday is the last time that my son can see his mum , '' he says , choking up .
The minister pointed out a further 284,000 applications would `` need to be worked through in the coming weeks once initial documentation has been received and allocated '' .
This represented an increase of 172 % from last year , she said .
Baroness Williams disclosed the scale of the passport backlog in a response to a question by Labour over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office guidance on non-essential overseas travel and quarantine rules earlier this month has paved the way for foreign holidays to destinations including Spain , Germany , France and Italy .
Those applying for new passports will be among the first to receive a blue version , introduced from April after 30 years , following the UK 's departure from the European Union .
Still no passport ?
What you can do If your passport does not arrive within three weeks of applying , you can track its progress and receive an email with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only being issued on compassionate grounds or for work travel , for example those travelling on government business .
There are no face-to-face appointments due to the pandemic but people can call the passport advice line on 0300 222 0000 to get guidance .
Most travel insurance policies only cover lost passports so it is unlikely you can claim back holiday costs on your travel insurance .
MoneySavingExpert.com advises asking your holiday provider if they will move your holiday to show `` forbearance '' though they are not obliged to .
Or , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deposit , it may be worth cancelling and not paying the remaining balance if you do not think your passport will arrive in time , the website says .
Have you applied for a UK passport recently ?
Do you urgently need to travel ?
Email us at haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
You can also contact us in the following ways : • Please read our terms & conditions and privacy policy

Coronavirus: UK passport application backlog reaches 400,000 Published 22 July 2020
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Image source, Getty Images
A backlog of more than 400,000 passport applications has mounted due to disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic, figures show.
Home Office minister Baroness Williams said reduced staffing to allow social distancing meant forms were taking longer to process.
She said steps were being taken to increase capacity after travel restrictions were eased.
But those applying may have to wait longer than the usual three weeks.
Asked how long it would take to clear the backlog, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told BBC Breakfast he did not know - "it's not quite my area", adding that the Home Office was working hard to clear it.
The Passport Office is advising only people going away before September or those travelling on compassionate grounds should apply now for a passport.
In a written Parliamentary answer about the backlog, Baroness Williams said the Passport Office "continues to operate at reduced staffing levels so its people can continue to socially distance".
She added: "It is therefore taking longer than usual to process passport applications.
"As part of its contingency arrangements, HM Passport Office is rapidly increasing its capacity for processing passport applications, in line with public health guidance, which will help to ensure it continues to meet the travel needs of its customers."
As of 7 July, she said, work was under way on about 126,000 passport applications - 31% higher than at the same period last year.
'All I want to do is get my son to his mum's funeral'
Image source, Adrian Haines
"It's desperate," says Adrian Haines, from Crawley, who is fast running out of time to renew his son's passport.
On Saturday, 16-year-old Jonathan's mum, Madalen, 49, died of a heart attack in France as she was preparing a holiday home for guests.
Now Adrian, who is separated from Madalen, is doing everything he can to get his son to his mother's funeral on Friday.
"I sent the passport people an email on Sunday night, I phoned them Monday morning, I eventually got a call back midday, the guy took all my details for processing an emergency passport - I don't think he realised the urgency.
"I had a gut feeling this was going nowhere, so I put a plea on my Facebook and contacted my MP, Henry Smith.
"He assured me he'd do absolutely everything he could."
Still waiting for promising news, Adrian has rebooked the Eurotunnel twice and is considering travelling tonight, with only the out-of-date passport, to try to give Jonathan the chance to see his mother's body.
"Thursday is the last time that my son can see his mum," he says, choking up.
The minister pointed out a further 284,000 applications would "need to be worked through in the coming weeks once initial documentation has been received and allocated".
This represented an increase of 172% from last year, she said.
Baroness Williams disclosed the scale of the passport backlog in a response to a question by Labour over the delays.
The relaxation of Foreign Office guidance on non-essential overseas travel and quarantine rules earlier this month has paved the way for foreign holidays to destinations including Spain, Germany, France and Italy.
Those applying for new passports will be among the first to receive a blue version, introduced from April after 30 years, following the UK's departure from the European Union.
Still no passport? What you can do
Image source, PA, BBC Image caption, Newly-issued British passports carry a dark blue design after the UK's departure from the EU
If your passport does not arrive within three weeks of applying, you can track its progress and receive an email with its status.
Urgent passports are currently only being issued on compassionate grounds or for work travel, for example those travelling on government business.
There are no face-to-face appointments due to the pandemic but people can call the passport advice line on 0300 222 0000 to get guidance.
Most travel insurance policies only cover lost passports so it is unlikely you can claim back holiday costs on your travel insurance.
MoneySavingExpert.com advises asking your holiday provider if they will move your holiday to show "forbearance" though they are not obliged to.


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Coronavirus: Leicester textile firms face enforcement action after safety breaches

Nearly a quarter of textile firms in Leicester inspected for health and safety breaches since lockdown have faced action , the government has said .
Further measures are also being considered at premises which ignored controls intended to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .
Concerns about working conditions in the city 's textile factories have grown in recent weeks .
The work and pensions minister said inspectors had visited 34 businesses .
In a parliamentary written answer to questions about the welfare of Leicester 's garment workers , Baroness Stedman-Scott said the Health and Safety Executive ( HSE ) had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She added : `` Further enforcement action is being considered where non-compliance with Covid-19 risk controls has been found . ''
The minister said HSE was prioritising spot checks in the textile industry and `` will take enforcement action to secure compliance '' with coronavirus risk controls .
Leicester 's garment industry has been under a spotlight after reports staff at factories have been underpaid and unprotected from Covid-19 .
Fashion chain Boohoo is investigating one of its suppliers after reports some workers were paid only £3.50 an hour .
The issue of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city was the first in the UK to be subjected to a local lockdown following a spike in infections last month .
A whistleblower told the BBC some factories had almost doubled their staffing to cope with the surge in online orders during lockdown .
The worker said firms that `` maybe used to have 50 people working comfortably , now had 80 or 90 people in the same area '' .
They said there had been `` no social distancing whatsoever in the factories '' , and there had been added pressure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and they needed the goods to be in '' .
Some factories in Leicester supply fast fashion chains such as Boohoo and Quiz .
Boohoo has said it is `` shocked and appalled '' by reports that workers had been paid as little as £3.50 per hour , way under the £8.72 national minimum wage for people over 25 .
Quiz said it had suspended a supplier after claims that a factory in Leicester offered a worker just £3 an hour to make its clothes .
On Monday , more than 50 MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urging her to do more to protect UK garment factory workers from exploitation .
There will be a partial easing of some restrictions in the lockdown area from Friday but pubs , restaurants , and hairdressers are among businesses that will remain shut .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• BUBBLES : How do they work and who can be in yours ?
• JOBS : Can my boss force me to go to work ?
• SYMPTOMS : What are they and how to guard against them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you wear one ?
• TESTING : Who can get a test and how ?
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They said there had been "no social distancing whatsoever in the factories", and there had been added pressure because "people were shopping from home and they needed the goods to be in".


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Woman thrown from Blackpool pier Wurlitzer ride

A woman was injured after being thrown from a fairground ride in Blackpool .
Police said she suffered head and @ @ @ @ @ a Wurlitzer on the seaside town 's south pier on Tuesday eveing .
The woman @ @ @ @ @ , was taken to hospital where her injuries were `` not thought to be life-threatening @ @ @ @ @ .
The incident is being investigated by the Health and Safety Executive , the force @ @

The woman, aged in her 20s, was taken to hospital where her injuries were "not thought to be life-threatening", Lancashire Police said.


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Coronavirus: London police to enforce face masks 'as last resort'

Police in London will only enforce the wearing of masks in shops `` as a last resort '' , the Met Commissioner has said .
Dame Cressida Dick said she hoped shoppers who refused to wear masks would be `` shamed '' into compliance .
Officers will attend if people not wearing a mask refuse to leave a shop or become `` aggressive , '' Dame Cressida said .
Thames Valley and Devon and Cornwall police forces say officers will attend incidents only if they turn violent .
But Dame Cressida said if shop keepers were concerned and had `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would try to assist .
She told LBC Radio : `` Calling the police should be a last resort for dealing with a mask issue .
But of course the law is the law .
`` My hope is that the vast majority of people will comply and that people who are not complying will be shamed into complying or shamed to leave the store by the store keepers or by other members of the public .
`` If somebody is concerned about what is going on in their store , yes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we will try to assist . ''
Wearing a face covering in shops and supermarkets in England is to become mandatory from 24 July .
Those who fail to comply with the new rules will face a fine of up to £100 , the government has announced .
Dame Cressida said supermarkets had managed to maintain social distancing and queuing themselves and had only rarely needed to call the police .
The move will bring England into line with Scotland and nations such as Spain , Italy and Germany .
Since mid-May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advised to wear coverings in enclosed public spaces , where they may encounter people they would not usually meet .
Mask-wearing has been compulsory on public transport in England and at NHS facilities across the UK since 15 June .

"My hope is that the vast majority of people will comply and that people who are not complying will be shamed into complying or shamed to leave the store by the store keepers or by other members of the public.


bbcuk--2020-07-22--More music stars change their 'unacceptable' names

British dance music DJ Joey Negro is to drop his `` unacceptable '' stage name and instead go by his real name , Dave Lee .
The move comes a day after fellow DJ The Black Madonna stopped using her own moniker , noting that it had caused `` controversy , confusion , [ and ] pain '' .
They are among a number of acts who have changed their names in light of the Black Lives Matter movement .
Last month , US bands Lady Antebellum and Dixie Chicks renamed themselves due to links with the slavery era .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hits and two US dance club chart number ones over the past 30 years under the stage name .
He also reached the UK top 10 three times using the pseudonym Jakatta .
In a Facebook post on Tuesday , he admitted he had `` not felt comfortable with the name Joey Negro for a while , especially as I 've got older '' .
'Out of place in 2020' He wrote : `` I understand now though that it 's not appropriate for me to carry on using the name .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ etc saying that it is unacceptable and people find it out of place in 2020 - and I agree . ''
He went on : `` I 'm sorry to have caused any offence .
My whole life has been about music but particularly black music , I love soul , funk , disco , jazz in a way that 's impossible for me to articulate in words and I have tried to champion it with the best intentions . ''
• Hit US band change name over slave-era links Lee said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ merging two of his favourite artists at the time - Pal Joey and J Walter Negro .
On Monday , US DJ The Black Madonna announced she would go by the name The Blessed Madonna after a petition was launched for her to change it .
The producer , whose real name is Marea Stamper , revealed on Twitter that her chosen name was `` a reflection of my family 's lifelong and profound Catholic devotion to a specific kind of European icon of the Virgin Mary which is dark in hue '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should have listened harder to other perspectives '' .
`` My artist name has been a point of controversy , confusion , pain and frustration that distracts from things that are a thousand times more important than any single word in that name , '' she wrote .
`` We all have a responsibility to try and affect positive change in any way we can , '' she added .
Other recent name changes in music • Chart-topping US country-pop group Lady Antebellum changed to Lady A because Antebellum has connotations with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they took the name from an architectural style , but were `` deeply sorry for the hurt this has caused '' .
However , the change has led to a legal dispute with a blues singer who already performed as Lady A .
• Fellow country band Dixie Chicks are now just The Chicks .
`` Dixie '' was often used as a nickname for the southern states during the US Civil War era .
The band 's Martie Erwin Maguire recently told BBC Radio 4 's Front Row : `` As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US and in other countries , we 've really put a microscope on that word 'Dixie ' and it felt uncomfortable ... We just do n't want to have any association with something that can be hurtful to a group of people . ''
• In June , British record label One Little Indian , which has released music by Bjork , Sigur Ros and Paul McCartney 's side-project The Fireman , changed its name to One Little Independent .
Founder Derek Birkett said he made the decision after a fan explained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outdated term for the indigenous people of the Americas - was `` offensive '' .
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He went on: "I'm sorry to have caused any offence. My whole life has been about music but particularly black music, I love soul, funk, disco, jazz in a way that's impossible for me to articulate in words and I have tried to champion it with the best intentions."


bbcuk--2020-07-22--British pupils 'struggled to continue learning at home'

A majority of British children struggled to continue learning at home during the lockdown , a report says .
The Office for National Statistics research found that of the 52 % who struggled , three-quarters of parents gave a lack of motivation as a reason .
The research , based on weekly household surveys between April and June , also found women 's well-being was being more adversely affected than that of men .
It also showed wide disparities in what families were able to do .
The ONS researchers assessed nationally representative surveys of more than 12,000 people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June about their experiences of home-schooling during the coronavirus pandemic .
Schools closed for most pupils at the end of March in England , Wales and Scotland , as the pandemic took hold .
Some schools re-opened in England on or around 1 June for some year groups .
Perhaps surprisingly , the research found only one in 10 parents complained about lack of devices to work on , although this rate doubled for single-parent households .
• Mums 'do most childcare and chores in lockdown' Providing laptops for disadvantaged children has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , lack of motivation was by far the biggest reason for parents to say their children had found it difficult to carry on with school work .
One-in-three women said the situation was negatively affecting their well-being , compared with one in five men .
Some 43 % of home-schooling parents said their children 's well-being was being negatively impacted by the experience .
Parents who had not been working in the previous seven days were significantly more likely to have been helping children with their school work ( 86 % ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 74 % ) .
And parents with a university education were more likely to have attempted home schooling than those without .
Notably , just under half ( 49 % ) of parents were confident to some degree in their ability to help their children 's learning .
While nearly a third of working parents said the requirement to home school had been negatively affecting their job .
A separate report by the ONS , found women were bearing the brunt of the home schooling experience , with women tending to carry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown .
The findings will be particularly worrying for parents of children facing exams in the near future .
Although exam boards have said they will be taking account of some of the lost learning by delaying next summer 's exams slightly , there have been calls fro head teachers for many more changes to ensure pupils are treated fairly .
In England , the government says all pupils will be back in school in September , but there are concerns that local lockdowns could see some children sent back home .
Schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a full return for all pupils when the new term begins .
In Wales , ministers have said blended learning - a mix of home and classroom learning - would be likely for some time to come .

Although exam boards have said they will be taking account of some of the lost learning by delaying next summer's exams slightly, there have been calls fro head teachers for many more changes to ensure pupils are treated fairly.


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Liverpool FC: Players will not appear outside Anfield

Police have moved to dispel rumours that Liverpool footballers will appear outside the club 's stadium after the team lifts the Premier League trophy .
The Reds face Chelsea at Anfield at 20:15 BST in a home season finale for the new English champions .
However , fans have been urged not to repeat the widespread gatherings that greeted the team 's title victory .
Police said rumours the players would celebrate outside the ground were `` 100 % '' not true .
It read : `` Rumours are circulating on social media about the team making an appearance outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will NOT happen .
The only place to watch tonight 's celebrations is on TV .
Please listen to the advice of your manager and players .
It 's what they want . ''
The force has confirmed a `` comprehensive and appropriate policing operation '' will be in place ahead of the game , with officers on duty at the ground and in the surrounding area .
The club previously condemned the conduct of some fans , amid concern about a spike in Covid-19 infections .
Thirty-four people were injured - three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up on the city 's waterfront despite restrictions remaining in force , while other celebrations were held outside Anfield and in the city centre .
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"This 100% will NOT happen. The only place to watch tonight's celebrations is on TV. Please listen to the advice of your manager and players. It's what they want."


bbcuk--2020-07-22--Coronavirus: 'My hotel is losing about £40,000 a month'

At the moment , Rick Cressman says his hotel Nailcote Hall , near Coventry , is losing £40,000 a month , with bank borrowing his only financial lifeline .
The hotel had been making £3m a year .
`` Fixed costs mean we must operate at scale , '' he told the BBC .
`` We would need to operate at 50 % capacity just to turn a small profit . ''
The British Chambers of Commerce ( BCC ) says almost half of UK firms have been unable to fully restart operations despite restrictions being eased .
Its coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business survey of its type - found that weak consumer demand and possible local lockdowns were seen as obstacles .
Nailcote Hall , which employed 80 staff before lockdown , was a popular venue for weddings , party nights and visitors to the nearby National Exhibition Centre ( NEC ) .
It plans to re-open on 24 August , but since Mr Cressman took the decision another big NEC event he was hoping would bring in business has been cancelled .
`` We are taking a little bit of a punt , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his customers will return relatively quickly , saying many bookings `` have n't been cancelled , just pushed back '' .
• Immediate mass return to work unlikely , say firms Even so , the hospitality sector has strict distancing rules , so getting back to the days when the hotel had average wedding parties of 100 guests could be a long way off .
His staff are gradually being brought back from furlough , with training underway and the re-arrangement of the hotel to make it Covid-19 compliant in progress .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get up to 50 % capacity within about two months .
I 've been in this business 40 years .
I 'm sure many people with less experience would find it overwhelming . ''
The BCC 's survey of firms between 6 July and 10 July found that while demand is up since the depths of the lockdown , most firms are only operating at about half of their pre-virus capacity .
Meanwhile , almost half said they had seen a slight or significant decrease in revenue from UK customers compared to June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in late payments from customers when compared with the last six months of 2019 .
Adam Marshall , BCC director general , said : `` Businesses are grappling with reduced customer demand , an on-going cash crunch , and the potential for further lockdowns during an uncertain autumn and winter ahead , '' Mr Marshall said .
`` The prime minister 's encouragement to return to workplaces and further updates to business guidance will not be enough on their own . ''
The survey was carried out before Boris Johnson 's announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further in England under plans for what he called a `` significant return to normality '' by Christmas .
Under the new guidelines , people may use public transport for journeys immediately and companies will have more discretion to bring staff back to work from 1 August .
However , economists say that despite the easing of lockdown and hopes that the pace of staff being brought back from furlough will be pick up , the outlook for jobs was gloomy .
Jack Kennedy , economist at Indeed , an employment website which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` The slowdown in consumer activity mirrors hiring activity in the UK .
`` Today , there are 60 % fewer job postings than there were before the outbreak of Covid-19 , and so far there are few signs of a V-shaped recovery in vacancies .
`` The furlough scheme has been an important lifeline to millions of people but the fear is there will be a sudden rise in unemployment after that umbilical cord has been severed , '' he said .

Mr Cressman said: "We need to get up to 50% capacity within about two months. I've been in this business 40 years. I'm sure many people with less experience would find it overwhelming."


bbcuk--2020-07-14--Coronavirus: What powers do the police have?

Lockdown rules are changing across the UK .
But who is responsible for making sure people follow them ?
Police have the biggest responsibility for enforcing coronavirus laws - the rules that everyone must follow .
These differ across the UK 's four nations .
But not everything you are asked to do is a legal requirement .
Coronavirus guidance describes government recommendations to help control the virus .
These are not backed by laws .
Ministers have sometimes used the word `` rules '' to refer to the law and sometimes the guidance .
Can police make me cover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Northern Ireland it 's a legal requirement to cover the mouth and nose on public transport ( although some people are exempt ) .
Wales will introduce this rule on 27 July .
From 24 July , the requirement will extend to shops in England - mirroring the position that came into force in Scotland on 10 July .
If you refuse to wear a covering on public transport , police officers can stop you boarding - or direct you to leave .
Police officers in England and Transport for London staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's not clear yet how this will be enforced in shops .
The Police Federation , which represents front-line officers , says they ca n't spend their time patrolling thousands upon thousands of outlets .
Shop staff and security guards can already detain shoplifters while waiting for the police to arrive .
However , the general power of the citizen 's arrest is only exercisable to apprehend criminals committing offences that would go before a judge and jury .
A penalty ticket for being socially obnoxious would not cross that high bar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ managers will refuse non-mask wearers entry - rather than turning to the police to solve the problem .
In England , the law allows you to meet in a group of up to 30 people outside , or at home .
Outside means any public place - including beaches , parks , streets and the countryside .
So if you want to organise a picnic or garden party , you can now invite 29 guests .
If you go above that number , the police can turn up and force people to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ penalty ticket .
• Can I hug my grandchildren now ?
• At-a-glance : What can I do now ?
These start at £100 ( or £50 if paid within 14 days ) , rising to £3,200 for six or more offences .
In exceptional cases , the Crown Prosecution Service could take someone to court .
But , confusingly , the government wants people to do something different .
Its official guidance - not actually a legal obligation - says : `` You should only be socialising in groups of up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) indoors and outdoors or up to six people from different households when outdoors . ''
The law in England now allows even bigger formally organised gatherings , providing the people behind it can show they have a plan to minimise the risk of spreading coronavirus .
Officers can turn up and inspect the organiser 's written plan .
They can order people to leave if they decide there are genuine dangers .
Lockdown laws in the rest of the UK : • Scotland : What can you now do ?
• Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
The law gets more complicated still .
In England , Health Secretary Matt Hancock has an exceptional new power to completely close a specific public place .
• Sun-seekers urged to stay away from packed beach And he has also given local councils a suite of new powers to close down premises , stop events and shut down places like parks .
This could be used this summer to close beaches or beauty spots if there are concerns about crowds potentially spreading the virus .
If the land belongs to the Queen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first need their permission before it can restrict access .
If your favourite beach becomes what the law calls a `` restricted area '' , it would be a crime to go there .
Who can force nightclubs or bowling alleys to stay shut ?
The final part of the revised law in England covers the shrinking list of businesses still closed .
These are places where there 's thought to be a risk of spreading from close contact - such as nightclubs , indoor skating rinks and bowling alleys .
Police have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , in practice they 're leaving this to local authorities whose trading standards officers can also enforce the law .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
What if pubs and cafes break the rules ?
Pubs , restaurants , hotels and hair salons can now open in England - but they could still be forced to close .
That 's because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their staff and customers safe .
The Health and Safety Executive oversees laws and guidance on a safe working environment .
Like the police , it can enforce the law if it believes there is a danger - for instance in an overcrowded factory .
• How will pubs keep drinkers safe ?
Environmental health officers - part of your local council - are also on the front line as they also have responsibility for local safety and , like the police , respond day and night .
They 'll be inspecting premises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are open must be able to show they have plans to reduce the risk of transmission - for instance by creating one-way systems around their premises .
If a premises was the source of an outbreak , local public health directors could close it while the virus was tackled .
This is a long-standing power that has been used to contain other diseases .
Leicester is subject to the first UK local lockdown .
Police can break up gatherings of more than six people - and residents are n't allowed to stay away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of their bubble household .
• What could a lockdown be like in my area ?
But the city is n't actually walled in , legally speaking .
If a Leicester family fancies a clothes-shopping spree in Nottingham - because stores are still open there - there 's legally nothing to stop them .
Instead , the government hopes people 's sense of civic responsibility will see them follow guidance to stay at home .

Coronavirus: What powers do police have if people break Covid rules? Published 12 January 2021
Image source, Getty Images
The police's role in the coronavirus pandemic is simple: to ensure we follow national lockdown restrictions.
But in practice, that is a huge challenge for officers who are being asked to monitor behaviour that, until March last year, was perfectly legal.
How do police enforce Covid rules?
Police chiefs have followed a system called "The Four Es". Before fines are issued to rule-breakers, police will first:
Engage with people, to ask why they appear to be breaking the rules
Explain the law, stressing the risks to public health and the NHS
Encourage them to change their behaviour
The fourth "E" is "Enforce" by issuing penalty notices, as a last resort.
Covid rule-breakers are now "increasingly likely" to be fined by officers, the Metropolitan Police commissioner Dame Cressida Dick has said.
What are the fines for breaking Covid rules?
The police have a legal duty to make sure the rules are enforced, alongside council, environmental health and trading standards officers.
If you break coronavirus regulations, you could get a fixed penalty notice , the Covid equivalent of a traffic offence like speeding.
Since March, 32,000 have been issued in England and Wales. Penalties rose sharply during England's November lockdown. Almost 6,500 penalty tickets were handed out as police moved more quickly to enforcement.
In England and Northern Ireland fines start at £200. Fines start at £60 in Wales, and in Scotland, although this is reduced to £30 if paid within 28 days.
Large parties can also be shut down by the police - with fines of up to £10,000.
In extreme circumstances, you could be prosecuted and face an even greater fine imposed by a court.
Image source, West Midlands Police Image caption, Hundreds of people were caught on a drone camera at an illegal party by West Midlands Police
Can police fine me for being in the street?
Yes. All of England is now in a "tier four" national lockdown, with similar measures in place across the rest of the UK.
Under the new lockdown law, you must stay at home unless you have a "reasonable excuse" to be outside. Your home includes property such as a garden, shed or garage - and also access to it.
The government's lockdown guidance sets out examples of reasonable excuses. Police won't fine you for leaving home to go shopping for essential goods, or to use a business that can remain open, or for going to work or education, training or childcare.
There are other reasonable excuses - such as helping other people in their moment of need. Police chiefs are telling frontline officers to use their judgement if they come across a situation not defined in the regulations.
If you want to take part in a protest, the law does not define that as a reasonable excuse to leave home. There is, however, an exception for joining a picket as part of lawful industrial action.
Will police arrest me for exercising?
Exercise is one of the reasonable excuses for being outside in a public space. You cannot be fined for exercising.
But there has been enormous confusion since last March over how long people could exercise for. Cabinet Minister Michael Gove pronounced that spring that he thought half an hour was enough.
There are also questions over how far you can go to exercise. Boris Johnson has been criticised for travelling seven miles from Downing Street to go cycling during lockdown.
There are no restrictions in law in England on how you exercise and for how long. You cannot exercise in groups, but you can run or go on a wander with someone else from your household, support bubble or one person you don't live with.
The government's Covid guidance for exercise explains that law - and mixes it with a non-legal recommendation to only go out once a day - and to stay local.
It says local "means stay in the village, town, or part of the city where you live", but that has no legal force.
Image source, Getty Images
Derbyshire Police have been taking the "stay local" principle seriously. Officers have issued tickets to people who drive five miles to their local beauty spot - including two women accused of an illegal picnic because they were carrying takeaway cups of tea.
Will the police fine me for mingling?
They might. This refers to the ban on "gatherings".
The last-but-one version of the restrictions made it a potential crime to "mingle". That language has now gone from the law - but the rules are far stricter.
While the law in England doesn't criminalise bumping into someone in the street, you can no longer meet anyone socially - other than those in your household, support bubble or people you care for.
How likely am I to be fined?
The Home Office has given the police an extra £30m to pay for Covid patrols in England and Wales.
Over Christmas there were more than 800 fines for what Home Secretary Priti Patel says were "egregious" breaches of the rules.
The National Police Chiefs' Council hasn't abandoned the Four Es - but expect more fines and more officers asking people what they are doing.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Police patrols were stepped up around the Scotland-England border around Christmas
For instance, the Metropolitan Police has told officers to issue fines "more quickly" to anyone committing obvious, wilful and serious breaches.
Derbyshire Police, who famously put a drone up over hikers in the first lockdown, has issued a similar warning.
Can police make me cover my face?
Yes - while in shops and on public transport. You could face a fixed penalty notice if you don't.
Image source, Reuters
Can police check whether I'm isolating?
If you have returned from an overseas Covid hotspot, or have been told by the NHS Test and Trace system to stay at home, you must quarantine for 10 days.