bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: PM urges industry to help make NHS ventilators

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to speak to engineering firms on Monday about whether they can shift production lines to building NHS ventilators .
It comes amid growing concern about a shortage of the life-saving equipment as coronavirus infections increase .
Carmakers and the construction equipment firm JCB are among manufacturers to be contacted .
Downing Street said it wanted the manufacturing sector `` to come together to help the country '' .
`` Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus outbreak is a national priority and we 're calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis , '' Downing Street said .
`` We need to step up production of vital equipment such as ventilators so that we can all help the most vulnerable , and we need businesses to come to us and help in this national effort . ''
However , BBC business editor Simon Jack said that manufacturers were far from ready to switch production .
One company told him that comparisons with the accelerated production of Spitfire aircraft during World War Two were misplaced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guarantee components could be sourced quickly .
It is understood one subject on the agenda during the prime minister 's talks with industry on Monday is whether specialist firms that make ventilators and other critical equipment might be prepared to share their intellectual property .
Engineers have already been asked to draw up plans to quickly produce more ventilators .
And on Sunday evening , Tory MP Tom Tugendhat tweeted : `` The Prime Minister is calling for a National Effort for Ventilator production .
We have been inundated with offers .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BEIS Business Support helpline on 0300 456 3565 .
A specific team receiving these calls will start at 10am tomorrow . ''
On Sunday 's BBC Andrew Marr show , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said engineering firms should consider switching some manufacturing to help ramp production of the vital equipment .
He accepted it was the kind of policy normally reserved for times of war .
`` We 've got high quality engineering in this country , '' Mr Hancock said .
`` We want anybody who has the manufacturing capability to turn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do that . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Ventilators are vital in the treatment of patients whose lungs have been attacked by the infection .
The health secretary told Sky News that the country currently has 5,000 ventilators but said it would need `` many times more than that '' .
But questions remain over how engineering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be able start manufacturing the complex medical devices .
In a statement on Sunday , the chairman JCB , Lord Bamford , said : `` We have been approached by the prime minister to see if we can help with the production of ventilators .
`` We have research and engineering teams actively looking at the request at the moment , '' he said .
However , he continued : `` It 's unclear as yet if we can assist , but as a British company , we will do whatever we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our country is facing . ''
• A ventilator is a machine that helps a person breathe by getting oxygen into the lungs and removing carbon dioxide • Ventilators can be used to help a person breathe if they have lung disease or another condition that makes breathing difficult .
They can also be used during and post-surgery • A tube , connected to a ventilator machine , is placed in a person 's mouth , nose or through a small cut in the throat ( called a tracheostomy ) Manufacturing firm , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the discussions and aero-engine maker Rolls-Royce said it was `` keen to do whatever we can '' .
It is not just manufacturing firms that have offered their services .
Hotel chain Best Western has said it could turn its properties into temporary hospitals if the NHS needed additional bed space during the coronavirus outbreak .
The company said it had seen a surge in cancellations over the last month due to the outbreak .
`` If the NHS wants additional bed space , and we can partner with other companies to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and we can do it safely , then we would be willing to start having those conversations immediately , '' the hotel chain 's boss , Rob Paterson , said .
Manufacturers asked by the government to produce thousands of ventilators to help save the lives of seriously affected victims of coronavirus are not ready to fill the demand .
Although firms including JCB , Unipart , Rolls-Royce and others are in close conversation with the government , no detailed blueprint for increased manufacture of the life-saving equipment currently exists .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the accelerated manufacture of Spitfire aircraft during World War Two were misplaced , as there was no accepted design .
Even if there was , there is no guarantee the components could be sourced in time to even start production in the next two months .
Ventilators are vital as medical experts estimate that between 10 % and 20 % of those who succumb to the virus will need critical care .
Many of those will need help breathing .
Although firms stand ready and able to produce more ventilators , a lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sourcing mean that production remains many weeks away .

One manufacturer told the BBC that comparisons with the accelerated manufacture of Spitfire aircraft during World War Two were misplaced, as there was no accepted design. Even if there was, there is no guarantee the components could be sourced in time to even start production in the next two months.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Roy Hudd, actor and comic, dies aged 83

Roy Hudd, actor and comic, dies aged 83

Roy Hudd , who hosted BBC Radio 2 's The News Huddlines for 26 years and also starred in Coronation Street , has died at the age of 83 .
In a statement , his agent said : `` We are sad to announce the passing of the much-loved and amazingly talented Roy Hudd OBE .
`` After a short illness , Roy passed away peacefully on Sunday 15 March , with his wife Debbie at his side . ''
The all-round entertainer also starred in Coronation Street .
His agent added : `` The family would ask you to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time . ''
Comedy writer Simon Blackwell , who is best known for his work on The Thick of It , In The Loop and Veep , also paid tribute .
The Yvonne Arnaud theatre in Guildford also posted a tribute on Twitter .
Hudd played Archie Shuttleworth in the ITV soap for several stints between 2002 and 2010 .
In the 1990s , he won praise for his roles in Dennis Potter 's Lipstick on your Collar and Karaoke .
He also starred in acclaimed crime drama Ashes to Ashes ( 2008 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glennister .
In 2015 , he played his first pantomime dame in Dick Whittington and His Cat , the first show at the then newly renovated Wilton 's Music Hall in London .
Hudd first broke into TV appearing on the BBC 's Not So Much A Programme , More A Way of Life , which also featured David Frost , William Rushton , John Bird , Michael Crawford and Eleanor Bron .
He also co-wrote and played the part of Bud Flanagan in the musical Underneath the Arches .
Hudd was born @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One of his earliest jobs was as an artist working under Harry Beck , who produced the famous London Underground map .
Hudd made his professional debut as a comedian in 1957 at the Streatham Hill Theatre .
In 1958 , he joined the Redcoats at Butlin 's Clacton and worked alongside Sir Cliff Richard and Dave Allen .
Hudd was an authority on music hall and was also president of the British Music Hall Society , '' The songs were terrific .
They told good stories , '' he told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ music hall songs have always appealed to me .
I was brought up by a gran who always used to sing songs . ''
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bbcuk--2020-03-16--Islamic State: US military says RAF airstrikes may have killed civilians

There is `` credible '' evidence British airstrikes against the Islamic State group have killed civilians in Iraq and Syria , the US military has said .
The Ministry of Defence has continued to deny American reports that some RAF airstrikes against IS have harmed civilians .
The RAF has deployed 4,409 bombs and missiles in the five-year war with IS .
The MoD 's approach to identifying civilian casualties has been described as `` not fit for purpose '' .
Airwars , a group which has been monitoring the bombing campaign and its impact on civilians , has obtained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European nations in which at least 40 civilians were killed .
The UK has admitted the RAF was involved in three of the strikes but still insists no civilians were killed .
One of the incidents involving the RAF was investigated by the BBC in 2018 after a whistleblower inside the US-led anti-IS coalition reported civilian deaths .
The coalition now confirms two civilians were killed .
• Who will help rebuild the former 'capital ' of IS ?
• UK urged to take back IS 'foreign fighters' • Can civilian deaths be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The MoD claims it has killed 3,964 IS fighters and injured 298 .
But so far it has accepted responsibility for just one civilian casualty - and none in the heavily-bombed cities of Raqqa and Mosul , where thousands of civilians are believed to have died .
Airwars has documented reports of nearly 30,000 civilian deaths across Iraq and Syria since 2014 .
So far the coalition has accepted responsibility for 1,300 , the vast majority killed as a result of US airstrikes .
Chris Woods , the director of Airwars , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has determined these three RAF strikes to be credible events is very significant . ''
What are the details of the three RAF strikes ?
The MoD said an RAF Tornado hit a truck bomb .
The BBC visited the site in 2018 after being told of likely civilian casualties by a whistleblower inside the coalition .
At the time the MoD said all those killed were `` highly likely '' IS fighters .
But following the BBC investigation the US now says : `` Two civilians were unintentionally killed . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enemy fighters using a mortar system in a building .
Airwars documented numerous reports from the ground of as many as 10 civilians killed - including a father and his young daughter , Walid Awad Al Qus and Limar Awad Al Qus .
The MoD said it has seen no evidence of civilian casualties .
But the US military said : `` Regrettably 12 civilians were unintentionally killed and six were unintentionally injured as a result of the blast . ''
The MoD said an RAF Reaper fired a hellfire missile at an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had to be diverted in flight when another individual appeared in the target zone .
The unintended target was killed but the MoD said further analysis showed him to be carrying a weapon and he was `` very likely '' to have been an extremist .
The US report stated : `` Regrettably one civilian was unintentionally killed . ''
The US-led coalition against IS has relied heavily on aerial footage to assess whether civilians have been killed in airstrikes .
That footage is not always conclusive .
Aerial reconnaissance can not , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be hiding in a building or be buried by rubble .
Coalition members said they had made their assessments on a `` balance of probabilities '' .
But Airwars said the MoD has set the burden of proof so high that it is `` effectively impossible for the UK military to admit any civilian casualties , even when their closest military ally believes the opposite '' .
The BBC has spoken to several senior US officers within the coalition .
A number have confirmed the UK , along with other coalition partners , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incidents in which airstrikes may have led to civilian harm .
On each occasion the RAF concluded there was no such evidence .
But one senior US officer told the BBC the RAF was `` looking for certainty '' of allegations of civilian harm , often when there was none .
The MoD has not visited a single site in Iraq or Syria to investigate allegations of civilian casualties from the ground .
In a statement the MoD said it examined all evidence available , but has `` seen nothing that indicates civilian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always seek to minimise the risk of civilian casualties through our rigorous targeting process , but that risk can never be removed entirely , particularly given the ruthless and inhumane behaviour of the adversary , including the deliberate use of human shields , '' the statement said .
Justin Bronk , a research fellow specialising in combat airpower at the Royal United Services Institute , said for the MoD `` the absence of evidence has been represented as being evidence of absence of civilian casualties '' .
He believes that early on in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engagement - agreed by ministers - led to an unrealistic expectation of zero civilian casualties .
Airwars is now calling for a major overhaul in the way the MoD tracks civilian casualties to bring it in line with Pentagon policies .
Unlike the UK , the US military has a team of specialist military personnel who track and investigate allegations of civilian casualties .
The Pentagon is also required by Congress to publish details of any civilian deaths caused by US military action .
The Chilcot Report into the Iraq war , published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do more to accurately track civilian casualties .
It concluded that after the invasion in 2003 `` the government 's consideration of the issue of Iraqi civilian casualties was driven by its concern to rebut accusations that coalition forces were responsible for the deaths of large numbers of civilians , and to sustain domestic support for operations in Iraq '' .
In the fight against IS the RAF have been instrumental in defeating a brutal enemy .
But there is little evidence that it has improved the way it tracks potential civilian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : `` We 're frustrated both by the MoD 's poor understanding of the real impact of its airstrikes on civilian populations and and apparent lack of interest to fix this serious problem . ''

"We always seek to minimise the risk of civilian casualties through our rigorous targeting process, but that risk can never be removed entirely, particularly given the ruthless and inhumane behaviour of the adversary, including the deliberate use of human shields," the statement said.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--London Bridge road works force partial Thames crossing closure

London Bridge has been closed to most private vehicles for seven months while major road works are carried out .
Buses , licensed taxis , motorcycles and bikes are the only modes of transport allowed to use the central London crossing , until the end of October .
Pedestrians can use the bridge , on restricted routes , but cycle lanes will not be in operation .
Hammersmith Bridge , in west London , is also currently closed to all vehicles for repair work to take place .
Transport for London has warned that surrounding roads around London Bridge will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been put in place to take traffic across Tower Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge , although both are expected to very busy , especially at peak hours .
The City of London Corporation is carrying out the work which will see entire surface being re-waterproofed and re-surfaced .
Twenty-four of the bridge 's bearings will also be replaced .
The corporation said the work was `` vital '' and `` will ensure the bridge remains operational for years to come '' .
Numerous structures have spanned the Thames between what is now Borough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the City of London .
The first river crossing was thought to have been created by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago .
Later ones were destroyed by invasions , storms and fires , while the Medieval stone bridge was packed with houses , shops and chapels .
It was also where the heads of people considered traitors , like Thomas Cromwell and William Wallace , were displayed on spikes .
The current bridge opened in 1973 , replacing another which was sold to an American entrepreneur after it was found to be @ @ @ @ @

Diversions have been put in place to take traffic across Tower Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge, although both are expected to very busy, especially at peak hours.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Daniel Radcliffe play off as entertainment activity winds down

Daniel Radcliffe 's new play Endgame has become the first major London production to be cancelled in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic .
The Samuel Beckett play started at the Old Vic theatre in January and had been due to run until 28 March .
The venue said it was scrapping the final two weeks `` with great sadness '' .
Citing travel and other restrictions , the Old Vic said it was `` becoming increasingly impractical to sustain business as usual at our theatre '' .
The show also starred Alan Cumming , Jane Horrocks and Karl Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are very sympathetic to people 's personal circumstances , as we are to the audiences who are still excited to visit the theatre and see our productions .
We are also extremely aware of our employees ' financial dependence on work being presented and tickets being purchased . ''
The theatre warned that giving full refunds for all lost performances would be `` financially devastating for us '' , so asked ticket-holders to consider the ticket price as a donation .
In return , those who do not ask for their money back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play from earlier in the run and a private video message of appreciation from the cast .
Meanwhile , the Young Vic theatre has cancelled all remaining performances of Nora : A Doll 's House .
• Radcliffe says parents helped him cope with fame The cancellations come amid huge uncertainty about what will happen to the West End and theatres around the UK , as well as music venues , TV shows and other activity in the entertainment world .
On Monday , another meeting of the government 's emergency Cobra committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banned .
In New York , Broadway shut down last week and will stay dark for at least a month in a move that could cost $ 565m ( £455m ) in lost revenues , based on takings for the equivalent period last year as reported by The Wrap .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
On Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the musical Curtains , in which he is starring , was carrying on , saying : `` If they suddenly cancelled it without the government 's say so , their insurance would be null and void , putting a lot of those people [ staff and crew ] in financial ruin . ''
Andrew Lloyd-Webber has already postponed the opening of his new musical Cinderella from August to October , blaming coronavirus .
On TV , Ant and Dec 's Saturday Night Takeaway went ahead with a studio audience as planned on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hosts assuring fans it was `` business as usual '' .
However , the traditional series finale from the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando will not take place after the theme park closed its doors .
The presenters promised that anyone who had won a place on the plane would still go to Florida at a later date .
Channel 5 scrapped the live audience on The Jeremy Vine Show from Monday `` as a precautionary measure '' , while Loose Women 's audience company Standing Room Only said `` we do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the show '' .
Filming on Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them 3 had been due to begin in London on Monday , but that has been put on hold .
Amazon 's new Lord of the Rings series , The Batman , Marvel 's Disney+ shows Loki and WandaVision , Sylvester Stallone 's thriller Samaritan , TV drama The Handmaid 's Tale and Will Smith tennis drama King Richard are among the other productions to have reportedly been suspended .
North American box office takings over the weekend slumped to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as film fans stayed at home and some cinemas limited their capacities .
Disney/Pixar 's animation Onward was the top film with takings of $ 10.5m ( £8.4m ) - down from $ 39m ( £31m ) last week .
And that was before cinemas were ordered to shut in New York and Los Angeles .
In the music world , after cancelling a string of concerts , British pop singer Yungblud is instead streaming a show live from a studio in Los Angeles at 07:00 local time ( 15:00 GMT ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ who 's ] sat in the bedroom twiddling me thumbs , going , 'Get me back on stage ! '
'' he told Variety .
`` So if I ca n't get to the stage , I 'm going to bring it to them . ''
Indie band Blossoms have cancelled the remaining dates of their March UK tour .
And the Academy of Country Music Awards , due to be held in Las Vegas in April , is the latest ceremony to be rescheduled , being postponed to September .
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bbcuk--2020-03-16--Dame Fanny Waterman: Piano legend 'hurt' over being asked to retire

The legendary piano teacher Dame Fanny Waterman says she was `` hurt '' to be asked to retire from the world-renowned Leeds International Piano Competition .
She founded and ran the competition for more than half a century and stepped down five years ago , aged 95 .
At the time , she said : `` I feel ready ... to hand over the reins . ''
But she has now told the BBC that she had not wanted to step aside and has criticised the Leeds ' decision , calling it `` misguided '' .
`` I did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' she said .
`` I wanted to be there forever .
`` But I think the powers that be locally would say , ' I think we ought to have a change ' .
I remember that kind of wording . '
I think you 've been in this job long enough . '
'' When asked who told her to go , Dame Fanny said : `` Well , I think there was a general feeling that that was my age and that perhaps they can get someone who 's even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were misguided .
Because I had many , many years more to give of my own passion , my own knowledge and everything . ''
As a child growing up in Leeds , Dame Fanny was a talented pianist herself .
In 1941 , she won a scholarship to the Royal College of Music in London and went on to perform at the Proms .
But she turned her back on the concert platform to teach .
Dubbed Field Marshal Fanny , she instructed and inspired generations of pupils .
She also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Me and My Piano .
With more than two million copies sold , they have never been out of print .
Unable to sleep during a hot summer 's night almost 60 years ago , she came up with the idea of launching an international piano competition in Leeds .
Many of the world 's greatest pianists , including Murray Perahia and Radu Lupu made their names in the competition that she nurtured and ran for decades .
And then came the announcement she would retire as artistic director , chief fundraiser , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jury after the competition in 2015 .
Her many roles were taken on by four individuals and the organisers say the competition continues to evolve as the musical world changes .
So in 2018 , for example , preliminary rounds were held in Berlin , New York and Singapore for the first time .
And the whole competition was streamed online .
Dame Fanny said she `` has tried not to be bitter '' about what happened `` because I 've felt that by saying anything , whoever succeeded me would think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' .
I wanted the whole thing to be correct .
`` I had my doubts , not about myself , but how well this could continue as I had started it . ''
The Leeds International Piano Competition is planning a special day of events to mark Dame Fanny Waterman 's 100th birthday on 22 March .
In a statement it said `` it celebrates and cherishes Dame Fanny 's exceptional contribution to the musical life of this country .
`` She will always be identified with The Leeds ( competition ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most respected and influential international music competitions .
`` Her indelible impact over more than half a century guarantees her position as one of the great figures of the music world .
`` As President Emeritus of The Leeds , her continuing involvement is deeply valued and encouraged , and we hope she long remains a guiding spirit . ''
The next competition event , the 20th , will be held in Leeds in 2021 .
`` I do hope and pray that in another 100 years our competition will have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Dame Fanny .
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When asked who told her to go, Dame Fanny said: "Well, I think there was a general feeling that that was my age and that perhaps they can get someone who's even better than me.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: How many cases are there in your area?

A total of 1,372 cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in the UK , with the country now ramping up measures as part of the second stage of the government 's phased plan to tackle the outbreak .
Some 40,279 people in the UK have been tested for the respiratory infection so far .
Thirty five people who tested positive have died .
Find out how many people have confirmed cases in your area : If you ca n't see the look-up click here .
The following maps , charts and graphics will help you understand the situation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dealing with it .
1 .
The number of UK cases is growing The new coronavirus , which causes the respiratory disease known as Covid-19 , was first confirmed in the UK at the end of January .
While there were a number of people testing positive throughout February , figures in the UK began to increase significantly at the beginning of March .
Since then , cases have been reported across the UK , with 232 new cases announced on Sunday .
Most confirmed cases are in England , which has more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed cases , Wales has 94 and Northern Ireland has 45 .
Confirmed case numbers for the UK are lower than other European countries , such as Italy , for example , where there have been almost 25,000 cases and more than 1,800 deaths , according to 16 March figures from the World Health Organization .
However , the government 's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance has said there are probably between 5,000 and 10,000 people infected in the UK at this time .
He also said that many people will no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mild symptoms .
Only those with the most serious symptoms will be given a test in hospital .
England 's chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , said the peak of the UK outbreak is most likely still 10 to 14 weeks away .
Globally , authorities have confirmed more than 160,000 cases of the coronavirus and almost 6,500 deaths .
There have now been more than 87,000 cases outside China - overtaking the 80,860 in the country where the virus originated in December .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
2 .
We are in the second phase of the government 's response The government has published its action plan for dealing with the virus , which involves three phases - contain ; delay ; mitigate - alongside ongoing research .
While the emphasis has been on the contain and research phases up until this week , the country has now moved to the `` delay '' phase to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As part of the delay phase , people with even mild coronavirus symptoms - defined as a temperature above 37.8 C or a `` new , continuous '' cough - are being asked to self-isolate at home for seven days to protect others and help slow the spread of the disease .
Schools are also being advised to cancel trips abroad and people over 70 and those with pre-existing health conditions are being told not to go on cruises .
The delay phase could also mean further `` social distancing '' measures at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson has ruled out closing schools at this stage .
Action to isolate the over-70s for an extended period to shield them from coronavirus is planned in the coming weeks , Health Secretary Matt Hancock has confirmed .
Government sources have also said mass gatherings might soon be banned to ease pressure on emergency services .
If the virus becomes even more widespread , the government may then decide to enter the third phase of mitigation , when health services are asked to focus on critical care and retired NHS staff could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 .
People who think they have coronavirus should self-isolate If you have a `` new , continuous '' cough or high temperature and think you have coronavirus you are advised not to go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
Instead , you should self isolate for seven days .
If symptoms persist beyond seven days or if you get worse you should contact the NHS 's dedicated 111 online coronavirus service if you are in England .
In Scotland , you should call your GP or NHS 24 on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call 111 ( if available in your area ) or 0845 46 47 .
In Northern Ireland call 111 .
Testing will now only focus on identifying people with the virus in hospital .

Based on the survey, the estimated peak of the pandemic, in cases if not in deaths, was in late March 2022, where at one point about 4.9 million people were thought to have the virus. However, the survey did not capture the first wave of the pandemic, with trials only beginning in England in April 2020.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Affordable housing: 'Why should I leave Penmachno to buy a home?'

For Meinir Hughes , Penmachno is more than a beautiful village in the Snowdonia national park - it is home .
The 33-year-old primary school teacher has been trying to buy a house in the village for over eight years .
`` I want to stay here in Penmachno and I just ca n't afford a house here , '' she said .
According to research carried out last year by Conwy council , 88 out of the 390 homes in the village - 23 % - were second homes or holiday homes .
• Number of empty homes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2009 • Housing rules 'price teachers and NHS staff out of community' '' I want to be independent and have my home and I do n't see why I should have to move from the village I was born in to do that , '' Ms Hughes said .
Local councils currently have powers to issue additional taxes on second home owners but do not have the right to stop residents turning their homes into places to rent .
Conwy council has introduced a 25 % premium on council tax for second homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised that a rising numbers of second homes are being designated as businesses , meaning owners pay no council tax at all .
Homes designated as businesses pay no local taxes , as long as their holiday home is let for 70 days a year and available to let for 140 days .
As small businesses , many are also exempt from paying business rates .
Conwy council said it would be seeking to bring forward a policy in its new local development plan to `` control the concentration where negative impact is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time and has been saving for more than a year - but she can not find a home in the village either .
`` They are all just about over £200,000 and I ca n't afford that , '' she said .
`` A lot [ of people ] from big cities see a house for £100,000 or £150,000 and think it 's cheap , but for us it 's expensive '' .
Eryl Owain , deputy chairman of Bro Machno Community Council said the effect could be widespread .
`` The visual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - but the social impact is that it drains the village , '' he said .
`` There are families that want to reside here but ca n't . ''
The Welsh Government said it understood second homes could have a negative effect on the local area but insisted it was on target to deliver 20,000 new additional affordable homes by the end of the current assembly term in 2021 .

"I want to be independent and have my home and I don't see why I should have to move from the village I was born in to do that," Ms Hughes said.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Domestic homicide: 'The violence my sister suffered was horrendous'

Since 2010 an average of five people have been killed every year in Northern Ireland by a current/former partner or @ @ @ @ @ Crossan was murdered by her husband in Londonderry in 1997 .
The judge called it @ @ @ @ @ assault ' .
Her brother , Darren McGrellis , has spoken to BBC News NI @ @ @ @ @ had on his family .
His comments come as Northern Ireland is preparing to introduce @ @ @ @ @ reviews are independent multi-agency investigations into the circumstances of such deaths , with the aim @ @ @ @ @ to bereaved families .

Since 2010 an average of five people have been killed every year in Northern Ireland by a current/former partner or close family member.
Caroline Crossan was murdered by her husband in Londonderry in 1997. The judge called it a "savage and unprovoked assault'.
Her brother, Darren McGrellis, has spoken to BBC News NI about the impact her death had on his family.
His comments come as Northern Ireland is preparing to introduce domestic homicide reviews.
The reviews are independent multi-agency investigations into the circumstances of such deaths, with the aim of promoting learning and support to bereaved families.
Video journalist: Niall McCracken


bbcuk--2020-03-14--Tree planting: 'I want to plant one million’

The government has pledged to plant 30 million trees a year as part of the effort to tackle climate change @ @ @ @ @ - the main gas heating the planet - so planting more of them is seen @ @ @ @ @ solution .
At the moment , the UK 's forests pull in about 10 million @ @ @ @ @ year but the hope is to more than double that .
But planting trees is @ @ @ @ @ not suited to everyone .
At top speed , Canadian Shelby Barber can plant more @ @ @ @ @ BBC News followed her for a hard day 's planting .

The government has pledged to plant 30 million trees a year as part of the effort to tackle climate change.
Trees absorb carbon dioxide - the main gas heating the planet - so planting more of them is seen by many as a good solution.
At the moment, the UK's forests pull in about 10 million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year but the hope is to more than double that.
But planting trees is skilled and back-breaking work, not suited to everyone.
At top speed, Canadian Shelby Barber can plant more than 4,000 per day. BBC News followed her for a hard day's planting.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Autism: How to talk to a child about their autism

Isaac is autistic , but in his mum Eliza 's words , that is not all that he is .
@ @ @ @ @ autism influences how people see Isaac .
She says finding the right words has helped @ @ @ @

Isaac is autistic, but in his mum Eliza's words, that is not all that he is.
The language they use around autism influences how people see Isaac.
She says finding the right words has helped her support him.
Video journalist: Alex Stanger


bbcuk--2020-03-16--The Papers: 'Pull together' for elderly as virus sees banks act

The focus for many of today 's papers is on protecting the elderly from coronavirus , after it emerged over the weekend that over-70s would be asked - at some point - to self-isolate .
The Daily Mail calls on Britons to `` pull together '' to help them , reporting that charities are urging people to `` get in touch with neighbours '' and that hundreds of local help groups have sprung up .
The Daily Mirror warns that a long period of isolation will leave elderly people lonely , and says ministers need to explain what support will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Daily Express wants plans to scrap free TV licences for all pensioners to be shelved , saying it would be `` scandalous '' if the change took place as scheduled in June , at the predicted height of the outbreak .
The Daily Telegraph reports that asking Netflix to stream programmes for free for the elderly and food delivery companies to temporarily waive their fees are among ideas being discussed in government .
Several papers say they have seen a briefing document from Public Health England ( PHE ) , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eight million people in hospital .
The Express says 80 % of people are likely to be infected .
The Mirror reports that the document warns the crisis will last until spring 2021 , and says it 's `` the first time health chiefs have admitted what many had feared '' .
Get news from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning Reporting on the announcement that the government will hold daily televised press conferences , the Guardian notes that Prime Minister Boris Johnson has `` shown little enthusiasm for exposing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of his time in office - and that he is taking the action after calls for the public to be given much clearer guidance .
In its editorial , the Times says the `` piecemeal '' way that the plans for combating the virus have emerged has `` created uncertainty '' .
The Telegraph argues that the government has followed scientific advice , but says it is being `` worn down '' by criticism from within .
The Sun assures its readers that Prof Chris Whitty , the UK 's chief medical adviser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientific adviser , are `` eminent doctors ideally equipped to deal with the pandemic '' .
The front page of the Times responds to the cutting of interest rates in the US by saying `` banks have acted to save the world economy '' from the coronavirus pandemic .
It says the US `` restarted a money-printing programme '' not seen since the financial crisis in 2008 .
The Telegraph calls the Federal Reserve 's decision `` drastic '' and says the UK needs to do more than the measures outlined in last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be saved .
The Guardian says that , according to Iran 's ambassador to the UK , the British government is taking a `` new approach '' to the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe , the British-Iranian woman held on spying charges which she denies .
Hamid Baeidinejad has said the two countries are in talks about how to settle a £400m debt owed by London to Tehran - although the paper says `` neither side will openly acknowledge '' any link to Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe .

The Daily Express wants plans to scrap free TV licences for all pensioners to be shelved, saying it would be "scandalous" if the change took place as scheduled in June, at the predicted height of the outbreak. The Daily Telegraph reports that asking Netflix to stream programmes for free for the elderly and food delivery companies to temporarily waive their fees are among ideas being discussed in government.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Jarrow MP Kate Osborne diagnosed with virus

A second MP has tested positive for coronavirus .
Labour MP for Jarrow Kate Osborne said she was diagnosed following a period of self-isolation .
Last week , Health minister Nadine Dorries confirmed she had tested positive for the virus .
Ms Osborne said on Twitter : `` I will continue to self isolate until I have fought off the illness . ''
She urged people to heed NHS advice and stay at home if they have symptoms .
Ms Osborne said : `` But in the meantime I would encourage everyone to band together and support the most vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the official advice to stay at home for seven days if people have either a high temperature or a new , continuous cough .
A number of MPs have entered self-isolation after coming into contact with Ms Dorries .
Cabinet minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said on Friday she had tested negative for the virus , but would stay at home for seven days as a precaution .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : What are your rights ?
A total of 35 people have died in the UK after contracting Covid-19 .
Downing Street has said the government will hold daily televised press conferences to update the public on the fight against coronavirus .
The announcement of daily updates comes as Transport Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed the over-70s will soon be asked to stay at home for an extended period to protect themselves .


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Queen's University Belfast to start remote lectures

Laboratory sessions , tutorials and seminars will continue , unless otherwise advised , the university said .
Teaching will be @ @ @ @ @ that our students ' education will not suffer unduly '' during the coronavirus pandemic .
@ @ @ @ @ cancelled until further notice , and guidance on examination and assessment schedules will be issued @ @ @ @ @ How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• @ @ @ @ @ to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND @ @ @ @ @ the outbreak

"They are saying to us that although it might seem counterintuitive to many people, it is important that we take the right decisions at the right time to try to push down the peak of the virus so that our NHS is able to manage it."


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus in Wales: Public should only call NHS 111 if 'can't cope'

People who think they may have contracted the coronavirus no longer need to call NHS 111 in Wales .
Public Health Wales ( PHW ) is advising those with a fever or a new persistent cough to self-isolate for seven days .
It said those people should not to attend a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital and only contact NHS 111 if they `` can not cope '' with the symptoms at home or their condition worsens .
The new advice came as the number of confirmed cases in Wales rose to 94 .
The update on Sunday saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily rise so far .
However , the true number of cases is likely to be higher .
`` People no longer need to contact NHS 111 if they think they may have contracted novel coronavirus ( Covid-19 ) , '' said Giri Shankar , incident director for the outbreak response at PHW .
`` Instead , anyone who has a high temperature or a new continuous cough should stay at home for seven days .
`` They should only contact NHS 111 if they feel they can not cope with their symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or their symptoms do not get better after seven days . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
The public has been urged to play a `` crucial role in containing the spread '' of the virus by health experts .
Chris Williams said transmission could be reduced if people self-isolated if they had any symptoms and washed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases has prompted some universities in Wales to announce plans to stop face-to-face teaching .
Bangor University has said all lectures have been cancelled with immediate effect , and will move online next week .
Cardiff University and Swansea University have said they will be moving to online teaching over the coming week .
University of Wales Trinity St David said it was also suspending campus classroom lessons on Monday .
But the Welsh Government has said closing schools at this stage `` would do little to protect those most vulnerable such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
It follows calls from members of the Welsh Youth Parliament to close all educational institutions in Wales .
`` Now is the time to ensure that all schools , colleges and universities are closed , that young people are kept from mass gathering environments such as schools , '' said a letter signed by 20 of the 60 members of the group - all aged between 11 and 18 .
All school inspections in Wales have been suspended to allow staff `` to focus fully on the wellbeing of their learners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Estyn 's chief inspector Meilyr Rowlands said .

"Now is the time to ensure that all schools, colleges and universities are closed, that young people are kept from mass gathering environments such as schools," said a letter signed by 20 of the 60 members of the group - all aged between 11 and 18.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Bowel cancer mum 'facing death sentence' amid drugs uncertainty

A mother-of-two with bowel cancer said she was facing a `` potential death sentence '' unless the NHS agreed to fund the drug keeping her alive .
Charlene Roxburgh , from Ipswich , was diagnosed with cancer two years ago and sent home to die a few months later .
Against the odds , her health stabilised , so doctors experimented with a drug only approved for other types of cancer .
It proved to be a `` miracle '' for her but it costs £5,000 a month .
The drugs manufacturer Bristol Myers Squibb ( BMS ) agreed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two years , after a special request from Mrs Roxburgh 's consultant .
However , the 42-year-old is already one year into that agreement and said she had no idea what would happen when it ended .
`` This drug has saved my life .
I was on my deathbed , I was weeks away from dying , '' Mrs Roxburgh said .
`` My tumours are a third of the size they were .
`` It allowed me to become a grandmother for the first time last year . ''
The former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ type of cancer called MSI-high or mismatch repair deficient bowel cancer .
Nivolumab is an immunotherapy drug approved for lung , kidney and skin cancers but not for other cancers .
Unless NICE , the government body responsible for deciding which drugs should be available on the NHS , approves it for her type of cancer , she will have to pay £5,000 a month for it when the agreement ends .
`` I have had to retire early from a job that I loved and it would be impossible for us to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It seems so unfair that I could have it for free if I had a different type of cancer .
`` I feel so grateful for every extra day but I definitely feel like I 'm living on borrowed time . ''
Mrs Roxburgh 's husband Andy started a petition which has been signed by more than 110,000 people .
He said : `` We need the NHS to agree to fund the drug for this type of rare bowel cancer as it clearly works for some .
`` I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people who could hugely benefit from a drug already funded for other people . ''
NICE said it was forced to suspend its appraisal of the drug after BMS withdrew its application to get the drug approved .
BMS said it did this , despite positive data for treating bowel cancer with nivolumab , because it could not conclude the benefit outweighed the risk because of the `` non-comparative design of the study and the limited number of patients . ''
A spokeswoman added : `` Bristol Myers Squibb remains committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will continue to investigate nivolumab in this indication . ''
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Unless NICE, the government body responsible for deciding which drugs should be available on the NHS, approves it for her type of cancer, she will have to pay £5,000 a month for it when the agreement ends.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: PM says everyone should avoid office, pubs and travelling

The PM has said everyone in the UK should avoid `` non-essential '' travel and contact with others to curb coronavirus - as the country 's death toll hit 55 .
Boris Johnson said people should work from home where possible as part of a range of stringent new measures .
Pregnant women , people over the age of 70 and those with certain health conditions should consider the advice `` particularly important '' , he said .
People in at-risk groups will be asked within days to stay home for 12 weeks .
More than 1,500 people have tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - but the actual number of cases is estimated to be between 35,000 and 50,000 .
The key new government measures are : • Everyone should avoid gatherings and crowded places , such as pubs , clubs and theatres • Everyone should work from home if they can • All `` unnecessary '' visits to friends and relatives in care homes should cease • People should only use the NHS `` where we really need to '' - and can reduce the burden on workers by getting advice on the NHS website where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the most serious health conditions must be `` largely shielded from social contact for around 12 weeks '' • The UK is now `` three weeks '' behind Italy - the worst-hit country in Europe • If one person in any household has a persistent cough or fever , everyone living there must stay at home for 14 days • Those people should , if possible , avoid leaving the house `` even to buy food or essentials '' - but they may leave the house `` for exercise and , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from others '' • Schools will not be closed for the moment Chief medical adviser Prof Chris Whitty said the group of people who should take `` particular care to minimise their social contact '' were : • People over the age of 70 • Other adults who would normally be advised to have the flu vaccine ( such as those with chronic diseases ) Mr Johnson said `` drastic action '' was needed as the UK approaches `` the fast growth part of the upward curve '' in the number of cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attention to the advice as the virus is spreading more rapidly in the capital than elsewhere .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons the number of people to have died with the virus in England had risen to 53 - and `` the disease is now accelerating '' .
The first death in Wales , and a death in Scotland , brings the total number of deaths in the UK to 55 .
Why has the UK plan ramped up ?
The UK 's plan has shifted because the scientific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` catastrophic epidemic '' .
A strategy of just slowing the spread of the virus , but not trying to stop it , would have overwhelmed intensive care units .
The modelling by Imperial College London has been heavily informed by the experience in Italy and is influencing decisions at the heart of government .
Its calculations predicted 260,000 deaths in the UK .
Instead the plan is to drive down the number of cases to very low levels , which the models predict will limit deaths from coronavirus to the thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this approach comes with a major problem - there is no exit strategy .
Without the immunity that would build up if people were infected , then cases would soar as soon as measures are lifted .
The report said these could need to be in place until a vaccine is available , which could take up to 18 months .
We are in this for the long haul .
`` We are in a war against an invisible killer , '' Mr Hancock said , adding that emergency legislation to tackle the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday .
Some legislation will pass through the Commons unopposed this week as MPs feel the pressure to tackle coronavirus .
Sir Patrick Vallance , the UK 's chief scientific adviser , said further measures such as closing schools may be necessary at some point .
`` Those things need to be done at the right time , '' he said .
The total number of people in the UK to test positive for the virus has risen by 171 in a day to a total of 1,543 , according to the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases include 30 more from Wales and 18 in Scotland .
Sir Patrick said the UK is now `` three weeks '' behind Italy .
Italy , the worst-affected nation outside China - where the virus originated - has more than 20,000 cases and has suffered more than 1,800 deaths .
Sir Patrick added : `` It looks like we 're on the fast upswing or just about to get there and that 's the reason to want to get in quite quickly with these measures . ''
However , Prof Whitty added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus `` for any individual person '' was `` very low '' .
Most of those who have died in the UK have been people over the age of 60 with underlying health conditions .
• What are social distancing and self-isolation ?
• How to protect your mental health • The acts of kindness sparked by coronavirus Whole households to stay at home Prof Whitty said if one person in any household starts to display symptoms , everyone living there must stay at home for 14 days .
Mr Johnson said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if possible , avoid leaving the house `` even to buy food or essentials '' .
He said people could leave home to do exercise but should do so at a safe distance from others .
Prof Whitty said social restrictions would be `` very difficult for people to maintain '' but they would be `` doing it to protect the NHS from being overwhelmed '' .
All non-essential public access to the Houses of Parliament will be stopped in response to the virus .
Commons Speaker Sir Hoyle urged MPs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn criticised the government 's communication strategy and lack of support for low wage citizens .
He said , despite being 70 , he would not follow any advice to self-isolate .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Theatres and music venues around the UK , including the National Theatre , London Palladium and Royal Opera House , have announced they are to close from Monday night until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people should avoid such locations .
Ticket-holders will be contacted about obtaining refunds but as many venues are charitable enterprises , people are being encouraged to donate the cost to show their support .
The British Beer and Pub Association said coronavirus was having a `` devastating '' effect on pubs .
`` The government needs to give clear instructions and detail on the support package to rescue the sector and hundreds of thousands of jobs , '' chief executive Emma McClarkin said .
Many have expressed anger that Mr Johnson advised people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clubs , theatres and other such social venues '' while not forcing premises to close , which could have given them financial protection .
Actor Idris Elba confirmed on Twitter he had tested positive for the virus .
And further sporting events have been suspended , including Football 's National League and Rugby Union 's premiership , while events such as the Grand National , Boat Race and Isle of Mann TT races have been cancelled .
Mr Johnson said the risk of transmission of the disease at sporting events was relatively low @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as we advise against unnecessary social contact of all kinds , it 's right that we should extend that advice to mass gatherings as well '' .
Meanwhile , head teacher leaders have warned that keeping schools open as growing numbers of staff have to self-isolate is the most pressing challenge they face .
The government policy remains schools should stay open although closures may be necessary `` at the right stage '' of the outbreak .
The prime minister said the economy would take a short-term hit from the pandemic , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the disease declines .
But global stock markets sank again on Monday despite central banks around the world announcing a co-ordinated effort to ease the effects of the virus .
Tests to be 'scaled up' More than 44,000 people in the UK have been tested for the virus .
People self-isolating with mild symptoms are no longer being tested - the government has said tests are primarily being given to hospital patients with respiratory problems , and to people in residential or care facilities experiencing outbreaks .
But on Monday the head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ghebreyesus , said not enough tests were being carried out .
`` We have a simple message for all countries : test , test , test , '' he said - adding that the WHO has sent out almost 1.5 million tests to 120 countries .
Prof Whitty defended the UK 's testing regime but said : `` We do intend to continue to scale up testing . ''
He said tests only reveal whether or not people are currently sick - and that a test to show whether or not people had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transformational '' .
Public Health England ( PHE ) was `` very rapidly '' developing such a test , he added .
• The lockdown of European countries has continued to expand - Germany and France are the latest to enforce stringent measures • The European Union will close its borders for 30 days from Tuesday to external visitors from non-EU countries , according to French President Emmanuel Macron .
But travel with Switzerland and the UK will be preserved • A virus-hit cruise ship stranded in the Bahamas has set sail for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be flown back to the UK • Travel restrictions and a slump in demand due to the virus have forced airlines to cancel most flights and temporarily reduce staff • In the US , President Trump said people should avoid meeting in groups of more than 10 , but that a nationwide quarantine is not yet planned

Mr Johnson said the risk of transmission of the disease at sporting events was relatively low, "but obviously, logically, as we advise against unnecessary social contact of all kinds, it's right that we should extend that advice to mass gatherings as well".


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: More flights cancelled by Virgin, Ryanair and others

Travel restrictions and a slump in demand due to the coronavirus have forced airlines to cancel most flights and temporarily reduce staff .
Virgin Atlantic will cut four-fifths of its flights and has asked staff to take eight weeks of unpaid leave .
Ryanair and EasyJet are grounding most of their fleets , while BA owner IAG is to cut capacity by 75 % .
Norwegian Air has cancelled thousands of flights and will temporarily lay off more than 7,500 staff .
Holiday company Tui has said it will suspend the `` majority '' of its operations , affecting `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bookings .
Passenger numbers and bookings have plummeted in recent weeks as countries closed their borders and holiday makers cancelled trips .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • UK LATEST : What is the 'delay ' phase ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Forecasts by the research firm Centre for Aviation now predict that most airlines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of May unless they receive financial support .
`` Coordinated government and industry action is needed - now - if catastrophe is to be avoided , '' the firm said in a statement .
`` Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented .
Normality is not yet on the horizon . ''
In the US , airlines are in talks with the government about rescue funding , after announcing dramatic cuts to flight schedules and other measures .
They are seeking up to $ 50bn in aid , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the UK , Virgin Atlantic has asked the government for support for the sector , including emergency credit of up to £7.5bn .
EasyJet Chief Executive Johan Lundgren also called for government intervention to support the aviation industry .
`` European aviation faces a precarious future and it is clear that co-ordinated government backing will be required to ensure the industry survives and is able to continue to operate when the crisis is over , '' he said .
Virgin said that it was going to reduce its services to focus on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Heathrow-Newark route will be cut immediately .
The airline will also ask staff to take eight weeks unpaid leave over the next three months , with the cost spread over six months ' salary .
Virgin said it was doing this to avoid job losses , although it is also offering a voluntary redundancy package to all employees .
Norwegian Air 's temporary reduction in staff numbers will affect pilots , cabin crew and maintenance workers , roughly equalling 90 % of its workforce .
Over the weekend , Scandinavian airline SAS said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flights until conditions for commercial aviation improved .
As a result , the airline said it would temporarily lay off up to 10,000 employees , or 90 % of its workforce .
IAG , which owns British Airways , Iberia and Aer Lingus , said it had suspended flights to China , reduced capacity on Asian routes , cancelled all flights to , from and within Italy as well as making other changes to its network .
`` There is no cash whatsoever coming in the doors , '' said aviation analyst John @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lose money very quickly , despite such drastic measures .
Mr Strickland described the reduction in airlines ' operations as `` stunning '' , warning that airlines can lose money `` very , very quickly '' .
Stemming the loss by cancelling flights and parking aircraft is one thing , he said , `` but airlines are both capital and labour intensive so there has to be support of the costs that can not be avoided even if an airline is grounded '' .
Willie Walsh , chief executive of IAG , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the summer .
BA 's boss sent a memo to staff last week questioning the airline 's survival if it did not make urgent changes .
EasyJet said it had cancelled a `` further significant '' number of flights .
`` These actions will continue on a rolling basis for the foreseeable future and could result in the grounding of the majority of the EasyJet fleet , '' it said .
What happens if your flight is cancelled ?
Mass cancellations of flights in an unprecedented situation may leave passengers unsure of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fly out , it is relatively straightforward - you should be given a refund or , in some cases , the option to rebook for another date .
If this is part of a package holiday , then the entire cost of the holiday will be refunded .
A separate hotel booking will require a call to the hotel , asking for leeway , or perhaps a travel insurance claim if the policy covers you .
For those trying to get home , an airline has a duty of care to get you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This may mean flying with another airline or putting you on a different mode of transport .
If an extra overnight stay is required , the airline should pay for that as well as the food you need .
However , for those who accept a refund for a cancelled return flight , the airline 's duty of care ends at that point .
You would then have to get yourself home , which could be difficult given the current restrictions .
Consumer organisation Which ?
has called on airlines and holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to customers as the situation changes .
• Coronavirus : What are your travel rights ?
Have you been affected by travel upheaval as a result of coronavirus ?
Share your experiences by emailing 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: More flights cancelled by Virgin, Ryanair and others Published 16 March 2020
Image source, Getty Images
Travel restrictions and a slump in demand due to the coronavirus have forced airlines to cancel most flights and temporarily reduce staff.
Virgin Atlantic will cut four-fifths of its flights and has asked staff to take eight weeks of unpaid leave.
Ryanair and EasyJet are grounding most of their fleets, while BA owner IAG is to cut capacity by 75%.
Norwegian Air has cancelled thousands of flights and will temporarily lay off more than 7,500 staff.
Holiday company Tui has said it will suspend the "majority" of its operations, affecting "package travel, cruises and hotel" bookings.
Passenger numbers and bookings have plummeted in recent weeks as countries closed their borders and holiday makers cancelled trips.
What do I need to know about the coronavirus?
Forecasts by the research firm Centre for Aviation now predict that most airlines in the world will be bankrupt by the end of May unless they receive financial support.
"Coordinated government and industry action is needed - now - if catastrophe is to be avoided," the firm said in a statement. "Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented. Normality is not yet on the horizon."
In the US, airlines are in talks with the government about rescue funding, after announcing dramatic cuts to flight schedules and other measures. They are seeking up to $50bn in aid, according to the Wall Street Journal.
In the UK, Virgin Atlantic has asked the government for support for the sector, including emergency credit of up to £7.5bn.
EasyJet Chief Executive Johan Lundgren also called for government intervention to support the aviation industry. "European aviation faces a precarious future and it is clear that co-ordinated government backing will be required to ensure the industry survives and is able to continue to operate when the crisis is over," he said.
Airline cuts
Virgin said that it was going to reduce its services to focus on "core routes". Its London Heathrow-Newark route will be cut immediately.
The airline will also ask staff to take eight weeks unpaid leave over the next three months, with the cost spread over six months' salary.
Virgin said it was doing this to avoid job losses, although it is also offering a voluntary redundancy package to all employees.
Norwegian Air's temporary reduction in staff numbers will affect pilots, cabin crew and maintenance workers, roughly equalling 90% of its workforce.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The coronavirus outbreak has had a severe impact on demand for air travel
Over the weekend, Scandinavian airline SAS said it would temporarily halt most of its flights until conditions for commercial aviation improved.
As a result, the airline said it would temporarily lay off up to 10,000 employees, or 90% of its workforce.
IAG, which owns British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus, said it had suspended flights to China, reduced capacity on Asian routes, cancelled all flights to, from and within Italy as well as making other changes to its network.
"There is no cash whatsoever coming in the doors," said aviation analyst John Strickland, who warned that airlines could lose money very quickly, despite such drastic measures.
Mr Strickland described the reduction in airlines' operations as "stunning", warning that airlines can lose money "very, very quickly".
Stemming the loss by cancelling flights and parking aircraft is one thing, he said, "but airlines are both capital and labour intensive so there has to be support of the costs that cannot be avoided even if an airline is grounded".
Willie Walsh, chief executive of IAG, said he expects demand to remain weak well into the summer. BA's boss sent a memo to staff last week questioning the airline's survival if it did not make urgent changes.
EasyJet said it had cancelled a "further significant" number of flights. "These actions will continue on a rolling basis for the foreseeable future and could result in the grounding of the majority of the EasyJet fleet," it said.
What happens if your flight is cancelled?
Mass cancellations of flights in an unprecedented situation may leave passengers unsure of their rights.
For those yet to fly out, it is relatively straightforward - you should be given a refund or, in some cases, the option to rebook for another date.
If this is part of a package holiday, then the entire cost of the holiday will be refunded. A separate hotel booking will require a call to the hotel, asking for leeway, or perhaps a travel insurance claim if the policy covers you.
For those trying to get home, an airline has a duty of care to get you back if they have cancelled your flight. This may mean flying with another airline or putting you on a different mode of transport. If an extra overnight stay is required, the airline should pay for that as well as the food you need.
However, for those who accept a refund for a cancelled return flight, the airline's duty of care ends at that point. You would then have to get yourself home, which could be difficult given the current restrictions.
Consumer organisation Which? has called on airlines and holiday firms to give clear, fast advice to customers as the situation changes.
Have you been affected by travel upheaval as a result of coronavirus? Share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Keeping schools open a challenge, heads say

Keeping schools open as growing numbers of staff have to self-isolate amid the coronavirus epidemic is the most pressing challenge facing schools , head teacher leaders have warned .
Leaders from the two main head teacher unions say there may be too few staff available to teach and supervise .
The government policy remains schools should stay open although closures may be necessary `` at the right stage '' of the outbreak .
Heads say things are `` very difficult . ''
The general secretaries of the Association of School and College Leaders and the National Association of Head Teachers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Williamson , late on Monday .
In a joint statement , Geoff Barton and Paul Whiteman said : `` This is clearly a very difficult situation and a very challenging scenario for school leaders - and the government is well aware of our concerns .
`` We will continue working with the government to identify and tackle a number of issues for schools and colleges arising from the coronavirus emergency .
`` The most immediately pressing challenge is the difficulty in keeping schools open with growing numbers of staff having to self-isolate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of schools will have to close because there are too few staff available to teach , support and supervise children . ''
They also expressed concern about the implications for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities , those children who received free school meals and those from vulnerable families .
`` There is also the crucial question of [ national curriculum tests ] Sats , GCSE and A-level exams , which are scheduled in May and June , '' they said .
`` We must move quickly to provide clarity and address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and staff about what may or may not happen , and what contingencies are in place to deal with the inevitable disruption .
`` We have also asked today that routine Ofsted inspections and school performance tables are suspended this year to allow schools and colleges to focus on the national mission of coping with this unprecedented situation . ''
The unions said the meeting was productive and they expected to hold further talks with the secretary of state and his officials later this week .
UK chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be necessary '' to think about school closures , this should be only `` at the right stage '' of the outbreak .
Over the weekend , the National Education Union wrote to England 's schools watchdog , Ofsted , asking it to stop conducting inspections .
The letter says : `` We are very concerned , given the serious challenges that Covid-19 poses for schools , that Ofsted is still planning to conduct inspections .
`` We fail to understand that , in light of the government 's decision to move to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revised its deferral policy to defer inspections on providers that are 'affected ' .
`` We have to ask the question - can you name any school in England which has not been affected by Covid -19 ? ''
But Ofsted says all requests for deferred inspections will be looked at `` very favourably '' .
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A spokeswoman said : `` The spread of Covid-19 poses serious challenges to schools , colleges , childcare and social care providers - not least the potential impact on attendance and staffing .
`` In light of the government 's decision to move to the 'delay ' phase , we have amended our deferral policy so we can now defer inspections of affected providers .
`` We are proactively asking schools and all other types of providers we monitor , if they want to request a deferral because of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on all such requests . ''

"This morning I was still in two minds but I called the school and the head teacher answered in two rings and said we should definitely self isolate as he's got two pregnant members of staff and children with grandparents to think about."


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Will UK schools close over coronavirus?

Will UK schools close over coronavirus?

Many countries are closing schools as part of their efforts to limit the spread of coronavirus .
So , what 's happening in the UK ?
Why is my child 's school still open ?
At the moment , the government is advising schools to stay open .
However , it `` may be necessary '' to close them in the future , according to the government 's chief scientific adviser , Sir Patrick Vallance .
The UK 's approach is that children are not as vulnerable to the effects of coronavirus as adults .
The government is also concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Many parents - including much-needed NHS staff - would have to take time off work to look after their children .
And there are concerns that if grandparents - a vulnerable group - were drafted in to help with childcare , infected children could transmit the disease to them .
There are also fears that vulnerable children , such as those in danger of neglect , could be at risk if schools were closed for a long period of time .
Could my child 's school be closed ?
The government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday , Education Secretary Gavin Williamson met head teachers about whether to keep schools open .
`` The most immediately pressing challenge is the difficulty in keeping schools open with growing numbers of staff having to self-isolate , '' head teachers ' leaders said .
`` It is likely that a number of schools will have to close because there are too few staff available to teach , support and supervise children . ''
Exactly what action schools are asked to take may differ around the UK .
Keeping England 's schools open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has said .
In Northern Ireland , First Minister Arlene Foster has said that when schools shut it will be for at least 16 weeks .
And in Wales , schools closures have not been ruled out , with Health Minister Vaughan Gething saying `` they could be `` effective later on '' .
In Scotland , a number are closed for deep cleaning - a decision which some schools across the UK have also taken themselves .
We do n't know yet .
The current advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teachers and students should prepare for exams as normal .
In Scotland , where exams start earlier than the rest of the UK , the Scottish Qualifications Authority said there was no change to the exam timetable .
It is currently due to run from 27 April until 4 June 2020 .
All its deadlines for coursework , and other assessments , remain in place .
The advice is similar elsewhere in the UK , with students , parents and teachers being told to prepare for exams and to keep across any updates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Our overriding priorities are fairness to students this summer and keeping disruption to a minimum . ''
What if someone at my child 's school is ill ?
Schools are being urged to ensure pupils and staff wash their hands frequently .
And they are being told to clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are touched regularly .
Schools and nurseries are being told that anyone who becomes unwell with a new , continuous cough , or a high temperature should be sent home .
If pupils become unwell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they wait for their parents to collect them .
Ideally , this should be in a room behind a closed door , with a window open .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
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If that 's not possible , they should be moved to an area at least two metres away from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that overseas trips should be cancelled , domestic trips can go ahead , as long as fresh risk assessments have been carried out .
What if I want to keep my child off school ?
The official guidance is that children should stay at home if they are unwell , to avoid spreading the infection to others .
Otherwise , the advice is that they attend school as normal .
Under current rules , children can only miss school if they are too ill to go in or if parents have got advance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not yet clear what the situation will be for those parents who have decided to take their children out of school over concerns about the coronavirus .
Parents do have a right to home-educate their children - but if they are enrolled in a school , families can expect to be contacted by the school if they do not turn up .

How are Covid rules changing across UK schools? Published 23 February 2022
Image source, Getty Images
All remaining Covid restrictions have now been scrapped in English schools.
Rules have also been eased elsewhere in the UK, but some measures are being retained for the moment.
How are the Covid rules changing in schools?
The legal requirement to self-isolate after a positive test is also being removed, although it is still recommended.
Head teachers groups have warned that the changes to testing and self-isolation "may actually lead to an increase in disruption", as Covid is more likely to spread in the classroom, leading to further pupil and staff absence.
Image source, Getty Images
All school staff and secondary school pupils in Scotland and Northern Ireland are still asked to take two lateral flow tests (LFTs) a week (three in Wales).
In Wales, schools are largely back to normal. Face coverings will no longer be required in classrooms after 28 February, but should still be worn in communal areas of secondary schools.
In Northern Ireland, schools reopened with the same measures as last term. If a primary or post-primary class has multiple Covid cases, all pupils should take an LFT. The guidance that pupils in post-primary schools should wear face coverings still applies.
In Scotland, social distancing remains in place. However, pupils will no longer have to wear masks in school from 28 February.
How many teachers and pupils are off because of Covid?
The latest data for England shows that 182,000 pupils (2.2%) of pupils were absent for Covid-related reasons on 10 February, down from 320,000 (3.9%) on 3 February.
On the same date, 2.8% of teachers and school leaders and 2.5% of teaching assistants and other staff were absent due to Covid, down from 4.4% and 4.1% respectively the previous week.
Almost half England's schools (45%) had one in 20 teachers absent due to Covid.
In Scotland on 17 February, 12,638 students (2.4%) were missing from school due to Covid-related reasons. The highest absence rate this year was seen on 7 January, when 43,565 students (14.1%) were off.
In Northern Ireland, 5.2% of students, 9% of teachers and 11% of classroom assistants in schools were absent due to Covid over the week 24 to 28 January - the highest rates since the new term began.
Image source, Getty Images
Many schools have told the BBC they have struggled to find temporary staff to cover the teachers who are off.
England's Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi urged retired teachers to return and join teacher supply agencies to fill gaps, but a BBC survey suggested there had been a limited response.
Mr Zahawi also suggested schools could merge classes. But teaching unions said there were logistical difficulties and safety issues with teaching large groups of children.
Image source, Getty Images
Can a child go to school if they or someone in their household or class has Covid?
After Thursday 24 February, people in England with Covid will no longer have a legal obligation to self-isolate.
However, people who test positive will still be advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days, including school staff and students.
The legal requirement to self-isolate remains in place across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
As long as they don't have Covid symptoms, under-18s already don't have to self-isolate if someone else in their household has Covid.
Similarly, whole classes are no longer automatically sent home to isolate if a pupil or teacher tests positive.
However, close contacts aged five or above are strongly advised to test for at least seven days.
All primary and post-primary pupils in Northern Ireland are advised to take an LFT if there are multiple Covid cases in their class.
Which pupils are being vaccinated?
All children aged five to 11 in the UK will be offered a low-dose vaccine, which is being rolled out on a "non-urgent" basis.
It's expected to be offered in England in April, and plans are also under way in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In addition:
the low-dose vaccine is already being offered to five to 11-year-olds with medical conditions that put them at greater risk
all children aged 12 and over are being offered two doses of the Pfizer jab
sixteen and 17-year-olds who had a second vaccine dose at least three months ago can have a booster
the JCVI has also recommended that the booster is also offered to children aged 12-15 who are in an at-risk group or live with someone who is immunosuppressed
Children who aren't at high risk from Covid should wait 12 weeks after a positive test before having a jab.
How will exams work this year?
Grades will again be decided by external marking, instead of the teacher assessments used in 2020 and 2021, but grade boundaries will be more lenient in England, Wales and Scotland.
English exam boards have published details about this year's GCSE, AS and A-level papers for most subjects, including maths, biology, chemistry and languages.
Students taking GCSE exams in English Literature, geography, history and ancient history won't have to answer questions on one option from their course.
In maths and science exams, students will be given sheets of formulae and equations.
Students taking vocational B-Tec qualifications will have fewer internal assessments.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Sturgeon tells Scotland 'life will change significantly'

Nicola Sturgeon has warned that life will change `` significantly '' in Scotland due to stringent new coronavirus measures .
The first minister said `` we will get through this '' as she reiterated the need for every citizen to reduce all non-essential social contact .
Households have been told to self-isolate for 14 days if one member has symptoms - either a new cough or fever .
There are now 171 cases of the virus in Scotland , up 18 since Sunday .
• PM says everyone should avoid office , pubs and travelling But the Scottish government cautioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of increase may be due to a change in the testing system .
Ms Sturgeon said the UK was `` on the cusp '' of a rapid acceleration in cases , with numbers likely to double every few days .
• Stop all non-essential social contact and stop going to places with a high concentration of people such as pubs or cinemas • Avoid using public transport as much as possible • Avoiding all social contact is particularly important for people over 70 , for pregnant women and for those with some health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can • Anyone living in a household with somebody who has either a persistent cough or fever must now also isolate themselves for 14 days • Very vulnerable people with compromised immune systems - estimated to be around 200,000 in Scotland - will be given tailored advice on self-isolation that could last a `` period of weeks or months '' Ms Sturgeon said that the latest measures would `` significantly change life as we know it for a considerable period of time '' .
She continued : `` We must step up the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread , to protect our NHS and its ability to provide care and treatment to those who need it and crucially , to save lives .
`` I am acutely aware of the anxiety people will feel right now .
We are all in this together .
If we do the right things and all follow the advice being given , we can get through this and we will get through this . ''
The first minister thanked NHS staff , saying it was `` not possible to overstate '' the pressure they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scottish government was `` 100 % focused on doing everything we can '' and would keep the public updated on a regular basis .
Scotland 's chief medical officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said there was evidence in Scotland of `` sustained community transmission '' .
She said the priority was to reduce the number of people coming into the NHS and prevent services - particularly intensive care and respiratory wards - from becoming `` overwhelmed '' .
The UK government earlier announced Scotland would receive an additional £780m to fund its Covid-19 response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £1.5bn funding package for the devolved administrations designed to bolster the NHS and provide grants for businesses .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the money was in addition to the funding package announced during last week 's Budget .
The number of cases in Greater Glasgow and Clyde remains the highest in Scotland at 44 .
The new statistics also reveal the first case of coronavirus has been recorded in Dumfries and Galloway .
Only two of Scotland 's 14 health boards , Orkney and Western Isles , have yet to record a positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths , which includes the first in Wales , is now 55 .
Most of those who have died have been people over the age of 60 with underlying health conditions .
The total number of people in the UK to test positive for the virus has risen to 1,543 , according to the latest Department of Health figures .
More than 44,000 people have been tested .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?

"I am acutely aware of the anxiety people will feel right now. We are all in this together. If we do the right things and all follow the advice being given, we can get through this and we will get through this."


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: West End shuts down as Boris Johnson's advice sparks anger

Theatres in London 's West End and around the UK have shut after PM Boris Johnson advised people to avoid such venues as coronavirus spreads .
`` You should avoid pubs , clubs , theatres and other such social venues , '' he said .
However , he stopped short of forcing venues to close , leaving some in the affected industries in limbo .
The Society of London Theatre , which represents the West End , said theatres would close from Monday night until further notice .
Sister organisation UK Theatre said its 165 venues around the country would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his first daily news briefing on Monday , Mr Johnson said the government advice was that `` public venues such as theatres should no longer be visited '' .
He added : `` The proprietors of those venues are taking the logical steps that you would imagine , you are seeing the change happen already .
`` As for enforcement , we have the powers if necessary but I do n't believe it will be necessary to use those powers . ''
Mr Johnson said that from Tuesday mass gatherings were something `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
He also said people should now avoid `` non-essential '' travel and contact with others .
But many figures from the worlds of theatre , music and other live entertainment were angry that Mr Johnson advised people to stay away while not forcing venues to close , which could have given them financial protection .
UK Music , which represents the music industry , said the hundreds of likely gig and festival cancellations would cause `` immense damage '' , and Mr Johnson 's comments risked exacerbating the problem .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mass gatherings has resulted in huge uncertainty and confusion over what exactly it will mean for the music industry , '' acting chief executive Tom Kiehl said .
`` The government must spell out whether there will be a formal ban , when that might come into effect , which venues and events will be impacted and how long the measures will remain in place .
`` The virus is having a catastrophic impact on the UK music industry and will threaten many jobs and businesses across our right across our sector .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Patrick Gracey , producer of Tom Stoppard 's latest play Leopoldstadt , said the prime minister `` has just doomed an entire industry by telling people not to attend the theatre '' .
He added : `` By not enforcing a shutdown , production insurance will not apply so producers and shows will go bankrupt , and tens of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre chief executive Julian Bird said : `` Closing venues is not a decision that is taken lightly , and we know that this will have a severe impact on many of the 290,000 individuals working in our industry . ''
The Royal Opera House also shut down immediately after the prime minister 's press conference .
In other developments in the entertainment world : • Actor Idris Elba said on Twitter that he had tested positive after coming into contact with somebody who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experienced any symptoms • Filming on the new series of Peaky Blinders and Line of Duty was put on hold • TV soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale said they would `` remind people of important public health issues '' like hand-washing • The BBC decided to delay the move to scrap free TV licences for most over-75s from June until August A number of plays and gigs had already been scrapped as the virus continued to spread .
Earlier , Daniel Radcliffe 's new play Endgame became the first major London production to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus pandemic .
Citing travel and other restrictions , the Old Vic said it was `` becoming increasingly impractical to sustain business as usual at our theatre '' .
The theatre warned that giving full refunds for all lost performances would be `` financially devastating for us '' , so asked ticket-holders to consider the ticket price as a donation .
The Royal Court has postponed all performances `` during these difficult months '' , and the Young Vic theatre has cancelled all remaining performances of Nora : A Doll 's House .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ last week and will stay dark for at least a month in a move that could cost $ 565m ( £455m ) in lost revenues , based on takings for the equivalent period last year as reported by The Wrap .
Andrew Lloyd-Webber has already postponed the opening of his new musical Cinderella from August to October , blaming coronavirus .
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bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Coronation Street and Emmerdale 'to remind about hand-washing'

Coronation Street and Emmerdale will `` remind people of important public health issues '' like hand-washing as the coronavirus pandemic continues to grow .
The TV soaps will `` try and do more such messages going forward '' , ITV said .
Their filming schedules have not been disrupted by coronavirus , but a growing number of TV shows and movies have halted or changed their plans .
Peaky Blinders and Line of Duty , two of the UK 's biggest TV dramas , have put filming of their new series on hold .
A statement on the official Peaky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much consideration and in light of the developing situation concerning Covid-19 , the start of production of Peaky Blinders series 6 has been postponed . ''
Line of Duty , which is made by World Productions , had been filing for its sixth series in Northern Ireland .
Its Twitter feed said : `` In light of the spread of Covid-19 , after much consideration , @ worldprods are suspending filming of # LineofDuty S6 with the support of the BBC . ''
On Monday 's episode of Coronation Street , viewers will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happy birthday twice while washing her hands - but that scene was coincidentally written last year and filmed in January , and is not a direct reference to coronavirus .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Speaking about Coronation Street and Emmerdale , ITV Studios creative director John Whiston said : `` Because we script and shoot so far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contemporary issues .
`` However we are going to use the soaps to remind people of important public health issues such as the need to wash their hands .
We 'll try and do more such messages going forward . ''
Asked about the impact of the virus on filming , a spokesperson said `` our priority is the wellbeing and safety of all our colleagues and everyone who works with us on our shows '' , but they were `` confident that we 're able to continue with our filming schedule '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who went into self-isolation 10 days ago after returning from an affected country did not develop symptoms and has now returned to work .
Elsewhere , a number of studio-based programmes , such as ITV 's Loose Women and Channel 5 's Jeremy Vine , went ahead on Monday without their usual live audiences .
With rising concerns and restrictions , a growing number of TV shows and movies have halted or changed their plans .
US programmes to have suspended filming include The Walking Dead , Stranger Things , The Handmaid 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Disney+ shows Loki and WandaVision .
The BBC 's celebrity version of Race Across The World has also been postponed .
But Ant and Dec 's Saturday Night Takeaway went ahead with a studio audience as planned on ITV at the weekend , with the hosts assuring fans it was `` business as usual '' .
However , the traditional series finale from the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando will not take place after the theme park closed its doors .
The presenters promised that anyone who had won a place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Florida at a later date .
Meanwhile , the BBC has decided to delay the move to scrap free TV licences for most over-75s from June until August because these are `` exceptional circumstances '' and `` now is not the right time '' .
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Asked about the impact of the virus on filming, a spokesperson said "our priority is the wellbeing and safety of all our colleagues and everyone who works with us on our shows", but they were "confident that we're able to continue with our filming schedule".


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: BBC delays over-75 TV licence fee changes

The BBC is to delay TV licence fee changes for the over-75s until August in light of the coronavirus situation .
Free TV licences for up to 3.7 million people had been due to be scrapped on 1 June , but that has been put back to 1 August .
These are `` exceptional circumstances '' and `` now is not the right time '' , BBC chairman Sir David Clementi said .
He added : `` We are fully focused on delivering our services to the public at this difficult time . ''
The BBC confirmed it will foot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last year , the corporation announced that only low-income households where one person receives the pension credit benefit will still be eligible for a free licence from June 2020 .
On Monday , amid the growing spread of the coronavirus , the BBC and the government issued a joint statement saying they `` do not want anyone to be worried about any potential change '' at the current time .
`` The BBC 's priority over the coming period will be to do everything we can to serve the nation at this uniquely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` As the national broadcaster , the BBC has a vital role to play in supplying information to the public in the weeks and months ahead . ''
`` Recognising the exceptional circumstances , the BBC board has therefore decided to change the start date of the new policy .
Our current plan is to now bring it into place on 1 August .
We will of course keep the issue under review as the situation continues to evolve . ''
Free TV licences for the over-75s have been provided by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the provision is being passed to the BBC as part of its last licence fee settlement .
There was an outcry in 2019 when the broadcaster announced it would end the scheme for all but those receiving the pension credit benefit .
• Do I need a TV licence and what does it pay for ?
• BBC licence fee to rise by £3 in April More than 630,000 people signed a petition set up by the charity Age UK , which called on the prime minister to take action .
On Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` a victory for common sense '' , but questioned whether an eight-week delay `` will be anything like long enough '' .
Charity director Caroline Abrahams said : `` Unfortunately many over-75s will have already received a letter suggesting they get their pension credit letters photocopied at the local library or corner shop .
`` This runs counter to the public health message the government seems likely to be giving older people very soon about staying at home to reduce their risk of infection , so it 's important older people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to take this action for now . ''
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said : `` I am pleased the BBC has worked with us and agreed to delay their licence fee changes for over-75s from coming in and will keep this under review .
`` It will be welcome news to millions of older people who now do n't need to worry about their TV licence during this challenging period .
`` It is right that the BBC have recognised the exceptional circumstances posed by the coronavirus outbreak and the need for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the national effort . ''
A 2018 report estimated that continuing to providing free licences for the 2020/2021 financial year would cost the BBC around £700m .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
The DCMS Committee chair Julian Knight said : `` We welcome this news at what will be a time of great anxiety , particularly for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will offer comfort as well as being a vital means for accessing public information .
`` However , this delay seems to offer a short-term fix to a much wider problem .
What we want is to see is renewed efforts from the Government and the BBC to sit down and resolve this issue once and for all . ''

"This runs counter to the public health message the government seems likely to be giving older people very soon about staying at home to reduce their risk of infection, so it's important older people are informed that there's no need for them to take this action for now."