bbcuk--2020-06-25--The Papers: Minister under pressure and sunseekers hit beaches

The newly-released private messages relating to Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick 's approval of a Tory donor 's housing scheme is the lead story for several of Thursday 's papers .
`` Cosy texts that damn minister '' , is the Daily Mail 's headline .
On the inside pages , the paper 's commentator , Stephen Glover , says that while there appears to be no evidence of any outright corruption , there 's much to suggest that the minister has been careless and high-handed when it comes to following rules .
By his own account , he behaved `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Is n't that reason enough to go ?
he asks .
The Times quotes a government source as suggesting that the housing secretary should spare the prime minister embarrassment by quitting .
`` In this scenario , normally a cabinet minister would have the duty to resign '' , the source tells the paper .
In the words of the i newspaper Mr Jenrick is `` on the ropes '' .
It says he had hoped that by publishing all correspondence , he would be drawing a line under the issue .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has left him fighting for his career .
For its main story , the Daily Telegraph reports that social distancing wo n't be applied in schools in England - so that all pupils can return full-time in September .
The paper says it understands that schools will instead be asked to focus on limiting the extent to which children mix outside of their class or year group and on implementing strict hygiene regimes .
The solution to reopening schools will involve groups of children being placed in `` bubbles '' - as is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is seen by the government as removing the need for social distancing , the paper adds .
A number of papers have details of the bilateral agreements - or `` air bridges '' - the government is negotiating with other countries that would allow us to take a foreign holiday this summer without going into quarantine .
Sign up for a morning briefing direct to your inbox According to the Telegraph , the first tranche of bridges set to be unveiled this weekend is expected to include France , Italy , Spain , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there will also be a `` slow trickle '' of updated destinations after that , with medium-haul destinations like Turkey and Dubai added towards August .
The Independent says police have expressed concern about a `` perfect storm '' of drunkenness and disorder when pubs in England reopen next week .
According to the online newspaper , they fear that as people flock back to their locals , the `` one metre plus '' social distancing rules could increase tensions over queuing , capacity and requirements for customers to give their contact details @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the oncoming revelry to `` weeks of New Year 's Eves '' .
The Mail says pubs are concerned that the new safeguards imposed on them will be difficult , costly and bureaucratic - and will deter customers .
Finally , there are many pictures of packed beaches on the hottest day of the year .
The Financial Times shows the crowds in Bournemouth on its front page , while the Daily Mirror leads on the story and has pictures from Brighton and Durdle Door in Dorset .
The Mail features sun-seekers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swamped the beach , one day after the prime minister 's plea for common sense .
`` So much for social distancing '' is the Daily Express 's observation .

In the words of the i newspaper Mr Jenrick is "on the ropes". It says he had hoped that by publishing all correspondence, he would be drawing a line under the issue. Instead, the paper adds, it has left him fighting for his career.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Diane Dodds to urge executive to reduce 2m rule

Stormont 's economy minister will urge the relaxation of the 2m ( 6ft ) social distancing rule in NI when the executive meets later on Thursday .
It comes days after the prime minister said England would move to `` 1m plus '' from 4 July , as its lockdown is eased .
Diane Dodds argues that a reduction would make it more viable for businesses in NI to operate .
Hotels , restaurants , pubs and cafes in NI are due to reopen from 3 July .
Some tourism and hospitality leaders have called on the executive to reduce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more capacity in their establishments .
Mrs Dodds has repeatedly said she wants to see the distance reduced to 1m ( 3ft ) as long as it is safe to do so , in order to sustain many of those businesses , as they begin to reopen their doors .
But other executive ministers have expressed caution and say the scientific advice shows it is still too risky to move to 1m .
Hotels , restaurants , pubs and cafes have already been advised to reconfigure seating , stagger arrivals and encourage use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A : What has and has not changed in NI lockdown ?
On Tuesday , First Minister Arlene Foster said she had spoken to Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove about England 's decision to relax social distancing , with some conditions .
She said reducing the distance to 1m would be `` transformational '' for many sectors of the economy .
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill previously said the executive needed to be guided by scientific advice , and that as soon as it could move to ease more restrictions , it would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a distance of at least 1m .
Some countries have adopted this guidance , often because they also insist on people wearing masks .
But it is not just about distance , but also timing .
The longer you spend in close proximity with an infected person , the bigger the risk .
Scientists advising the UK government say spending six seconds at a distance of 1m from someone is the same as spending one minute at a distance of 2m .
Mrs Foster has previously said that was a key concern for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to relax the current guidance around distancing .
What else are ministers likely to discuss ?
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon will ask the executive on Thursday to make the wearing of face coverings compulsory on all public transport .
Ministers will be asked to approve a paper setting out how the measure will be introduced and enforced .
At present , the executive recommends they are worn in shops and on public transport , where it is difficult to maintain social distancing .
In England and Scotland , it is now mandatory to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Republic of Ireland , Transport Minister Shane Ross is to bring a memo to cabinet on Thursday that would make it compulsory to wear a face covering on all forms of public transport , according to broadcaster RTÉ .
The executive has discussed the issue a number of times , but is not clear when ministers will come to a decision on wider use .
Ministers are also likely to sign off on previously announced plans for places of worship in Northern Ireland to provisionally reopen on a wider basis on 29 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed on Thursday , subject to the spread of the virus remaining low .
Discussions have been taking place about how weddings and funeral services can be conducted , as well as capacity issues and singing .
NI 's chief medical officer Dr Michael McBride held talks with church and faith leaders on Wednesday .
It is also expected there will be a discussion about free school meals which the executive has promised to support over the summer months .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• IMPACT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body • RECOVERY : How long does it take ?
• LOCKDOWN : How can we lift restrictions ?
• ENDGAME : How do we get out of this mess ?

Following the executive's 1m announcement on Thursday, the chair of the British Medical Association (BMA) in Northern Ireland, Dr Tom Black, said the change is "acceptable only if accompanied by a clear and strong recommendation from our government that people should wear appropriate face coverings in all indoor spaces outside of their own homes and in any circumstances outside of the home where there is potential contact at less than 2m".


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Police officer caught on camera attacking suspect jailed

A police officer caught on camera attacking a handcuffed suspect and spraying PAVA in his face , has been handed a suspended sentence .
PC Jonathan Reynolds used the liquid , similar to pepper spray , while arresting a drunk man outside a Powys pub in May last year .
On Thursday he was sentenced to 20 weeks in prison , suspended for a year , at Swansea Crown Court .
Reynolds , who resigned , has been barred from being a police officer .
The former PC was convicted of two charges of assault at Swansea Magistrates ' Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reynolds used `` unnecessary force '' during the arrest of a man outside the Castle Vaults pub in Newtown , Powys , on 27 May .
A disciplinary panel earlier this month heard how the officer sprayed PAVA into the suspect 's face `` from a very close range '' as he was being taken to the police car .
The force said that the suspect , later convicted for being drunk and disorderly , was `` generally unpleasant '' to Reynolds and had used offensive language towards him before he sprayed him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on another officer 's body camera and by CCTV cameras at Newtown Police Station .
Reynolds was filmed pushing the handcuffed suspect to the floor before pushing him into a wall and swearing at him .
Reynolds resigned from Dyfed-Powys Police earlier this month but a disciplinary hearing barred him from serving in any force for five years .
After five years he will be able to appeal to the College of Policing .
During an interview read out at the hearing , Reynolds , who had been an officer for 10 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be `` volatile '' and thought he was going to be assaulted when he decided to use the PAVA spray .
In character references , colleagues outlined his `` exemplary '' record as an officer , who was `` proactive and passionate about policing '' and had talked a suicidal man down off a bridge on the same shift that the incident occurred .
Chief Constable Mark Collins said Reynold 's behaviour had `` fallen far below the standards required of a police officer '' .
`` His actions on 27 May 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be tolerated , '' he said .

During an interview read out at the hearing, Reynolds said he knew the suspect could be "volatile" and thought he was going to be assaulted when he decided to use the PAVA spray.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Liverpool fans flock to Anfield to celebrate Premier League title

Thousands of Liverpool fans have gathered at Anfield to celebrate the club 's first Premier League title .
Supporters set off flares and fireworks after Chelsea 's 2-1 win against Manchester City gave the Reds their first league title in 30 years .
Within half an hour of the result , about 2,000 fans had gathered outside the stadium with some celebrating above the players ' entrance .
No attempts were made to disperse the crowd by police officers at the ground .
Merseyside Police advised motorists to avoid the area around Anfield and said road closures were being put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ force said it was `` monitoring the situation '' .
It is Liverpool 's 19th top-flight title and their first since 1989-90 , when Sir Kenny Dalglish led them to victory .
Jurgen Klopp 's side needed one victory to seal the league but City 's failure to win means they can not be caught .
A number of Reds players , including goalkeeper Alisson , defender Virgil van Dijk and midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain , celebrated together after watching the Chelsea-City game .
Outside the famous Kop end of Anfield thousands more fans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climbing on walls , bins and the roof of a merchandise stand .
Supporters danced , set off flares and waved flags while singing the name of Liverpool players including Mo Salah and captain Jordan Henderson .
Many fans were seen hugging and one man stood with his arm around a cardboard cut-out of manager Jurgen Klopp .
As well as gathering at Anfield , fans have also filled Liverpool city centre with many group 's singing the club 's famous You 'll Never Walk Alone anthem .
Many of the fans that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gathered outside Anfield , with some beeping horns as they passed .
Six-year-old Anthony Nesbitt went to the ground with his father Anthony and mother Marilyn , as well as a cardboard cut-out of Liverpool star Sadio Mane .
`` This is amazing , especially for them .
We 've been waiting 30 years for it , '' Ms Nesbitt said .
Earlier on Thursday , fans were urged by the city 's metro mayor to be the `` best 'stay at home ' fans in the world '' to prevent the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` amazing season '' can have `` the celebration it deserves '' when it is safe to do so .
Merseyside Police 's Assistant Chief Constable Rob Carden tweeted that he hoped fans `` have a great night and stay safe '' .
Liverpool City Council told fans to `` have a great party '' but maintain social distancing as they celebrated .
Several celebrities , including comedian John Bishop and basketball star LeBron James , also posted celebrations online after the title was sealed .
Why not follow BBC North West on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can also send story ideas to northwest.newsonline @ bbc.co.uk

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bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Prof Chris Whitty warns public over gatherings in hot weather

People must follow social distancing guidance while enjoying the sun , or Covid-19 cases `` will rise again '' , the UK 's chief medical adviser has warned .
Prof Chris Whitty 's remarks on social media came after a major incident was declared in Bournemouth when thousands of people flocked to the Dorset coast .
`` Naturally people will want to enjoy the sun but we need to do so in a way that is safe for all , '' he said .
The UK 's coronavirus death toll is now 43,320 , a rise of 149 since Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Department for Health and Social Care , showed 307,980 people have tested positive across the UK .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said the government has the power to shut down beaches if necessary .
Speaking on talkRADIO , Mr Hancock said he was reluctant to use it `` because people have had a pretty tough lockdown '' but he added : `` If we see a spike in the number of cases we will take action . ''
• Hottest day of the year so far with highs of 33.3C • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beach Bournemouth , Christchurch and Poole Council said Bournemouth Beach was `` stretched to the absolute hilt '' on Thursday , while Dorset Police said there were reports of gridlocked roads , fights and overnight camping .
Council leader Vikki Slade said they were `` absolutely appalled at the scenes witnessed on our beaches '' .
And in Glasgow , police cleared hundreds of people from Kelvingrove Park , prompting First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to say that , while she understood the desire to enjoy the hot weather , people should `` follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prof Whitty said : `` Covid-19 has gone down due to the efforts of everyone but is still in general circulation .
`` If we do not follow social distancing guidance then cases will rise again . ''
BBC health correspondent Nick Triggle said that six weeks ago , when the PM announced the first steps out of lockdown , the number of newly diagnosed infections was around 4,000 a day .
`` Those numbers have fallen four-fold since , with under 1,000 being recorded on average over the past week , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the testing and tracing system in place the virus can continue be suppressed - but only if the public plays its part . ''
Since May , people in England have been able to meet in groups of up to six people in outdoor spaces such as parks or private gardens - provided they observe social distancing and remain two metres apart .
The government has since announced a further easing of lockdown restrictions in England - to come into effect from 4 July .
This includes the introduction of a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that if a distance of 2m is not possible then 1m will be acceptable if certain precautions are taken , such as the use of face coverings .
The announcements at the prime minister 's Downing Street briefing this week on the reopening of pubs and other venues in England in early July and the new `` 1m plus '' rule made all the headlines .
But the note of caution struck by the senior official advisers , Professor Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance was all too obvious .
There were repeated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was not risk free and that the virus would be circulating right through the winter .
Prof Whitty said it was `` really critical '' that people took social distancing rules seriously otherwise chains of virus transmission would be re-established .
He clearly feels the rules are not being taken seriously on the beach in Bournemouth and has felt the need to repeat his warning .
This further underlines the concerns felt by health leaders that people will drop their guard and create mass gatherings in the hot weather and holiday season which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pick up again .
On Thursday , for the second consecutive day , the UK recorded its hottest temperature of the year so far , with highs of 33.3C ( 92F ) at Heathrow Airport .
Both Wales and Scotland also individually recorded their hottest days of the year .
In Wales , the temperature reached 30.7C at Gogerddan , near Aberystwyth , beating the previous high of 30C from Wednesday .
And in Scotland , a high of 30C was recorded in Prestwick .
In Northern Ireland , a high of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are expected to drop after Thursday with thunderstorms forecast for Friday .
An amber level three heat-health alert , issued by the Met Office , was extended on Thursday to take in Yorkshire and the east and south of England as well as the West and East Midlands .
That means people should drink plenty of fluids , avoid consuming excess alcohol and `` look out for '' young children , babies and those with underlying health conditions , the Met Office said .
Commenting on the crowded scenes in his constituency , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had asked the government to dispatch additional officers to Dorset if needed to deal with traffic and antisocial behaviour .
`` It is very sad to see a number of people being selfish and also acting dangerously , '' he said .
Mr Ellwood said it was `` not practical '' to close Dorset 's beaches altogether but suggested signs warning about overcrowding could be put up at railway stations and on approaching motorways .
He added the government needed to be `` dynamic '' in its response to beach crowding , otherwise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nothing '' .

This includes the introduction of a new "1m plus" rule - meaning that if a distance of 2m is not possible then 1m will be acceptable if certain precautions are taken, such as the use of face coverings.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Labour’s Rebecca Long-Bailey sacked in anti-Semitism row

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has sacked Rebecca Long-Bailey , saying she shared an article containing an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory .
Mrs Long-Bailey retweeted an interview with actor and Labour supporter Maxine Peake .
The shadow education secretary - who was beaten to the party leadership by Sir Keir - later said she had not meant to endorse all aspects of the article .
But Sir Keir said his `` first priority '' was tackling anti-Semitism .
The Labour leader said : `` The sharing of that article was wrong… because the article contained anti-Semitic conspiracy theories and I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shadow cabinet .
`` I 've made it my first priority to tackle anti-Semitism and rebuilding trust with the Jewish community is a number one priority for me . ''
A spokesman for the Labour leader added : `` Anti-Semitism takes many different forms and it is important that we all are vigilant against it . ''
In the article , Ms Peake discussed the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis .
She said : `` The tactics used by the police in America , kneeling on George Floyd 's neck , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secret services . ''
The Independent article also quoted the Israeli police denying Ms Peake 's claim saying : `` There is no tactic or protocol that calls to put pressure on the neck or airway . ''
Later on Thursday , Ms Peake tweeted that she had been `` inaccurate in my assumption of American police training and its sources '' .
She added : `` I find racism and anti-Semitism abhorrent and I in no way wished , nor intended , to add fodder to any views of the contrary .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Starmer 's sacking of Rebecca Long-Bailey .
On becoming leader , Sir Keir said he wanted to bring unity to the party where previously there have been factional fighting .
His decision may re-open divisions , with one former shadow minister on the party 's left telling me that this was `` a dangerous moment for the party '' - with the new leader 'purging ' those with whom he disagreed .
Others in the party note that Sir Keir has done quite a lot in a short space of time to install @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Leadership sources , though , insist the sacking was not part of some grand plan .
They say Mrs Long-Bailey had to go because she repeatedly refused to remove her retweet of Maxine Peake 's article when asked to do so .
And for Sir Keir , this is all about tackling the toxic perception of anti-Semitism in the Labour party ahead of a potentially damning report from the Equality and Human Rights Commission .
His allies say he promised actions not words to the Jewish community and he is following through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under his leadership he sends out a signal that those who are accused of anti-Semitism have no place at his top table .
The new shadow education secretary wo n't be announced today .
Those formerly close to Jeremy Corbyn say that the appointee must come from the left of the party if Labour 's leader is concerned about maintaining unity .
But he is proving that he wo n't duck difficult decisions .
The Jewish Labour Movement - which has led calls for a crackdown on anti-Semitism in Labour 's ranks - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mrs Long-Bailey .
National chairman Mike Katz said : `` We have consistently maintained that the pervasive culture of anti-Semitism , bullying and intimidation can only be tackled by strong and decisive leadership .
`` The culture of any organisation is determined by the values and behaviours of those who lead them . ''
And the Board of Deputies of British Jews President Marie Van der Zyl called Mrs Long-Bailey 's initial response `` pathetic '' and thanked the Labour leader for his `` swift action '' .
But Mrs Long-Bailey 's allies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticised the decision .
Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell , who supported her leadership bid , said : `` Throughout discussion of anti-Semitism it 's always been said criticism of practices of Israeli state is not anti-Semitic .
`` I do n't believe therefore that this article is or Rebecca Long-Bailey should 've been sacked .
I stand in solidarity with her . ''
Unite general secretary Len McCluskey , whose union supported Mrs Long-Bailey in her leadership bid , said her sacking was `` an unnecessary overreaction to a confected row '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be risked like this , '' he said .
The row erupted when Mrs Long-Bailey tweeted `` Maxine Peake is an absolute diamond '' with a link to the article on the Independent website .
The Salford and Eccles MP said she had retweeted the article because of Ms Peake 's `` significant achievements and because the thrust of her argument is to stay in the Labour Party '' but she did not endorse `` all aspects of it '' .
After she was sacked , Mrs Long-Bailey said she had issued a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` agreed in advance by the Labour Party Leader 's Office '' .
She added that she was `` subsequently instructed to take both this agreed clarification and my original retweet of Maxine Peake 's interview down '' .
`` I could not do this in good conscience without the issuing of a press statement of clarification .
`` I had asked to discuss these matters with Keir before agreeing what further action to take , but sadly he had already made his decision . ''
Mrs Long-Bailey became a Labour MP in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former leader Jeremy Corbyn and was quickly promoted to his frontbench team , serving as shadow chief secretary of the Treasury and later shadow business secretary .
Following Labour 's defeat in the 2019 election , Mrs Long-Bailey entered the leadership contest to replace Mr Corbyn and was supported by many on the left of the party .
She came second in the contest securing 26.6 % of the vote , while Sir Keir won 56.2 % .


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Most children 'experience only mild disease'

A study of European children with Covid-19 suggests deaths are extremely rare .
Only four of 582 children died , two of whom had underlying health conditions .
Symptoms were generally mild and some who tested positive had no symptoms at all , but about one in 10 children needed intensive care .
Doctors say the study is `` reassuring '' , but more needs to be discovered about the best treatment options for children who do develop severe disease .
What did the study find ?
Researchers led by a team at London 's Great Ormond Street looked at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 18 years living in 25 European countries .
They all tested positive for Covid-19 during the initial peak of the pandemic in April .
Of the four deaths during the study ( 0.69 % ) , none were in children under 10 , and two of those who died had pre-existing health conditions .
More than half of the children studied were admitted to hospital , and 8 % needed treatment in intensive care .
What symptoms did the children have ?
Some of the children ( 16 % ) , most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with a known case , had no symptoms at all .
What are the implications ?
The researchers say the death rate in children is likely to be `` substantially lower '' than that observed in the study , because those with mild symptoms would not have been tested or diagnosed at the time .
However , more data is needed to help doctors make decisions on the best treatment options for children who do get sick , they add .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who can be in yours ?
• JOBS : Can my boss force me to go to work ?
• SOCIAL LIFE : When will pubs , bars and restaurants reopen ?
Dr Marc Tebruegge , from the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health in London , said overall the vast majority of children and young people experienced only mild forms of the disease .
`` Nevertheless , a notable number of children do develop severe disease and require intensive care support , and this should be accounted for when planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ progresses , '' he said .
Children who were infected with other respiratory viruses in addition to Covid-19 were more likely to be admitted to intensive care .
`` This could have important implications for the upcoming winter season , when cold and flu infections will be more common , '' said Dr Begoña Santiago-Garcia , from University Hospital Gregorio Marañón in Madrid , Spain .
The research is published in The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health journal .

The researchers say the death rate in children is likely to be "substantially lower" than that observed in the study, because those with mild symptoms would not have been tested or diagnosed at the time.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: 70% of BAME pharmacists have had no risk assessment - survey

More than two thirds of black , Asian and minority ethnic pharmacists have not had workplace risk assessments for coronavirus , a survey suggests .
Of the 380 hospital and community-based pharmacists surveyed by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and the UK Black Pharmacists Association , 236 were from a BAME background .
Of those , 166 ( 70 % ) said they had not been approached by their employer to have a risk assessment .
And it called on employers to take urgent action to ensure ethnic minority pharmacists are risk assessed .
NHS England said it had written to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community pharmacists asking all employers to carry out risk assessments for at-risk staff within the next two weeks .
The RPS-UKBPA survey also found that 78 % of black pharmacists and pharmacy students felt they were at risk of coronavirus and wanted changes to be made to the way they work .
• BAME doctors 'let down ' over Covid risk checks Sandra Gidley , president of the RPS , said it was essential that pharmacists were properly risk assessed .
`` Those at high risk can be supported to reduce the risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a vital service to the NHS and the public .
`` Lessons are to be learned from this pandemic , especially with the risk of a second wave , and we now need action so our workforce is protected . ''
Some 43 % of the pharmacist workforce across the UK is from a BAME background , according to the General Pharmaceutical Council , which regulates pharmacists .
Both the RPS and the UKBPA have already called for individual risk assessments to be mandatory for BAME staff .
They have also written to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BAME pharmacists .
UKBPA President Elsy Gomez Campos said pharmacists needed to feel safe at work .
`` This is the time to look after each other and to look after everyone .
Our profession must rise to the challenge and respond to a call to risk assess pharmacy staff .
In a month 's time , the survey results must be very different from what we see today . ''
At the end of April , NHS England recommended that ethnic minority healthcare workers should be risk assessed for the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued similar guidance .
A number of reviews into deaths from Covid-19 , including by Public Health England and the Office for National Statistics , have now concluded that people from ethnic minority backgrounds are disproportionately dying from the virus .
Among the reasons for this are existing health inequalities , public-facing occupations and structural racism .
There were at least 3,876 deaths of BAME individuals in hospitals in England up to 9 June .
This means that BAME people represented 15.5 % of all coronavirus deaths up to this point .
Research @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that deaths of black Africans from the virus are 3.7 times higher than might be expected by geography and age , while the risk for Pakistanis is 2.9 times higher and for black Caribbean people it is 1.8 times higher .
NHS England 's letter to hospitals , CCGs and community pharmacists on 24 June states : `` All employers need to make significant progress in deploying risk assessments within the next two weeks and complete them - at least for all staff in at-risk groups - within four weeks . ''
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the number of staff who have been risk-assessed , including how many assessments have been completed for BAME staff , and are urging employers to make clear what additional mitigation is in place in settings where infection rates are highest .

"This is the time to look after each other and to look after everyone. Our profession must rise to the challenge and respond to a call to risk assess pharmacy staff. In a month's time, the survey results must be very different from what we see today."


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Warning over plans for new Royal Navy aircraft carriers

Ambitious plans for the Royal Navy 's two new aircraft carriers - each of which cost more than £3bn - will not be met without proper funding , the government spending watchdog has said .
The National Audit Office highlighted concerns over missing key elements such as aircraft and support ships .
The Ministry of Defence said it expects to meet its target of declaring an `` initial operating capability '' for the carriers by December 2020 .
But the NAO called the target `` tight '' .
And it is uncertain whether the first of the ships would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when the only existing operational one is due to be taken out of service .
• New aircraft carrier sails for the first time • Aircraft carriers dock together for first time The MoD is yet to commit the funding required for enough Lightning II fighter jets to sustain the carriers over their expected 50-year operating life , the NAO said in its report .
It also said the Navy had just one supply ship able to keep the carriers stocked with food and ammunition while on operations .
And it further warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system - which forms a crucial part of its defences - was running 18 months late , further diminishing its capabilities during its first two years .
Aircraft carriers are often seen as a symbol and tool of global reach and military power .
But few countries can afford to build and operate them .
It 's not just the Royal Navy that 's staked its future on the two enormous Queen Elizabeth Class Carriers - it 's the whole of UK defence .
The carriers need a small armada of ships for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need aircraft for logistics , airborne early warning and to carry out strikes .
None of this is cheap , but no one at the MoD appears to be entirely sure of the costs overall .
Remember the carriers have been built to last 50 years .
What is clear is that all the elements of Carrier Strike will take a significant bite out of the defence budget at a time when it 's already under strain .
Labour MP Meg Hillier , chair of the Commons Public Accounts Committee which follows the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Navy was in danger of being left with a `` hollowed-out '' capability unless the issues were addressed .
`` The Ministry of Defence has lofty ambitions for the carriers but has n't put its money where its mouth is , '' Ms Hillier added .
`` Worryingly , it still does n't know the full cost of supporting and operating Carrier Strike . ''
A MoD spokesman said : `` Carrier Strike is a complex challenge , which relies on a mix of capabilities and platforms .
`` We remain committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK 's global role .
`` Despite the disruptions of Covid-19 , the Carrier Strike group is on track for its first operational deployment . ''

What is clear is that all the elements of Carrier Strike will take a significant bite out of the defence budget at a time when it's already under strain.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Five-stage 'roadmap' for performing arts return unveiled

A five-stage `` roadmap '' intended to help the performing arts sector start to rebuild after the coronavirus lockdown has been unveiled by the government .
The `` phased return '' will initially let performances take place outdoors , with indoors performances to follow later .
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said he wanted `` to raise the curtain on live performances '' as soon as possible .
But there is no mention of additional funding , which several venues have said is key to their continued survival .
Nor is a specific time frame given , though a DCMS spokesperson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place immediately .
The five stages are outlined as follows : • Stage One - Rehearsal and training ( no audiences and adhering to social distancing guidelines ) • Stage Two - Performances for broadcast and recording purposes ( adhering to social distancing guidelines ) • Stage Three - Performances outdoors with an audience plus pilots for indoor performances with a limited distance audience • Stage Four - Performances allowed indoors/outdoors ( but with a limited distanced audience indoors ) Mr Dowden said live performances in theatres and music venues were `` the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our world-beating creative industries '' .
`` We know the challenges - theatres must be full to make money , and performers need to be safe on stage as they sing , dance and play instruments .
`` But I am determined to ensure the performing arts do not stay closed longer than is absolutely necessary to protect public health . ''
The culture secretary likened his roadmap to the `` Project Restart '' plans that have enabled the Premiership , the Championship and other `` elite sport '' competitions to resume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know the public wants its theatres open , our brilliant performers want to go back to work , and we will do all we can to get them fully back up and running , '' he continued .
Earlier this week Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that theatres and concert halls could reopen from 4 July , but not for live performances .
The enforced closure of the UK 's performing arts venues in March due to safety concerns have left many facing a severe financial shortfall .
Some theatres have announced plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Leicester , Southampton and elsewhere have gone into administration .
• Two Theatre Royals , two cities , two job warnings • Lloyd Webber 'wants to prove theatres can reopen' During an interview with Channel 4 News on Wednesday , Dame Judi Dench voiced her fears that some major theatres may not reopen in her lifetime .
`` I ca n't see how it 's going to recover , '' said the 85-year-old actress .
`` If the theatres now close and become dark , I do n't know when we 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The culture secretary outlined his roadmap for the performing arts at the latest meeting of the government 's Cultural Renewal taskforce on Thursday .
The taskforce , set up in May , includes representatives from Arts Council England , English National Ballet and the Ambassador Theatre Group among its members .
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The arts have been supported by loans, grants, the furlough scheme and a £160m Arts Council England emergency package, and the government is "considering ways in which we may be able to support it further on top of the unprecedented financial assistance we have already provided", the spokesperson said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Met PCs suspended over photos of double murder scene

Two Met Police officers have been suspended after `` inappropriate photos '' were taken at the crime scene of a double murder .
The unnamed officers were arrested by the Independent Office for Police Conduct ( IOPC ) on 22 June and have since been bailed .
The bodies of sisters Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman were found earlier this month at Fryent Gardens in Wembley .
Commander Paul Brogden said he was `` horrified '' by the allegations .
He added senior officers from the Met and the IOPC visited the sisters ' family to inform them of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information will no doubt have created additional trauma for a family who are already grieving the devastating loss of two loved ones , '' Commander Brogden said .
`` I am horrified and disgusted by the nature of these allegations ; a sentiment which will be shared by colleagues throughout the organisation .
`` If true , these actions are morally reprehensible and anyone involved will be robustly dealt with . ''
Ms Smallman , 27 , had been with friends celebrating Ms Henry 's 46th birthday at the park on the evening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sisters were killed by a stranger who repeatedly stabbed them in the early hours of 6 June - their bodies were not found until the following day .
In a statement the Met said two officers from the North East Command unit had both been suspended from duty .
The force said its directorate of professional standards was told last week about allegations that `` non-official and inappropriate photographs '' had been taken at the crime scene .
The IOPC said the pictures were allegedly `` shared with a small number of others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handling matters involving those members of the public who may have received those images '' .
Since their bodies were found forensic officers have been searching a large area of the park including a pond and have trawled through hundreds of thousands of tonnes of rubbish that was accidently cleared from the scene .
Detectives believe the killer received injuries in the attack `` which caused significant bleeding '' .
The IOPC is also separately investigating how the Met handled calls from worried family and friends of the sisters after they went missing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook , on Twitter , on Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel .

Since their bodies were found forensic officers have been searching a large area of the park including a pond and have trawled through hundreds of thousands of tonnes of rubbish that was accidently cleared from the scene.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Police fear disorder as lockdown eases

Chief constables are understood to have expressed private concern to the Home Office that plans to ease the coronavirus restrictions might lead to a rise in public disorder .
In the last month , illegal raves and street parties involving hundreds of people have been broken up in Manchester , Oldham , Leeds , Staffordshire and a number of locations in London .
Events in Brixton on Wednesday night resulted in 22 officers being injured , vehicles set on fire and a number of arrests .
Home Secretary Priti Patel has indicated that she intends to discuss the unrest with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Dorset have said they have had to deal with anti-social behaviour and fights close to Bournemouth Beach where huge crowds led officers to declare a major incident on Thursday .
A combination of frustration after months of lockdown , warm weather and the availability of alcohol are regarded as having created a perfect storm for unrest .
• Hottest day of the year so far with highs of 33.3C • Sun-seekers urged to stay away from packed beach Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced sweeping changes to England 's lockdown , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new `` 1m plus '' rule , from 4 July .
Pubs and restaurants are among the venues which will be allowed to reopen in England as part of the easing of restrictions .
The new `` 1m plus '' rule means that if a distance of 2m is not possible then 1m will be acceptable if certain precautions are taken , such as the use of face coverings .
The head of the Police Federation in England and Wales , John Apter , fears the reopening of pubs and bars in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members at risk .
`` Easing of lockdown on a Saturday has created almost a countdown to carnival and I am deeply concerned that we 're going to see big problems on that day , '' he told the BBC .
`` It 's only through fortune my colleagues are not being more seriously injured - or in fact killed .
That 's how bad it 's getting , and something has to be done '' .
Assaults on emergency service workers in England and Wales are said to have risen by 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Federation estimates that around 250 officers have been injured in recent weeks and the government is understood to be considering doubling the maximum sentence for those convicted of such crimes .
Gatherings of more than six people are still currently illegal and Ms Patel is among those who have questioned whether police should have taken a more proactive approach to public order during the Black Lives Matter and other protests .
The Home Secretary is reported to have had a `` firm '' conversation with Avon and Somerset 's Chief Constable Andy Marsh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulled down a statue of the slave trader Edward Colston and threw it into the harbour .
Ben-Julian Harrington , the police national lead for public disorder , warned that intervening might have caused injuries and `` violent confrontation '' .
One of the scientific committees advising ministers on the virus has warned that unrest could develop in `` specific scenarios where police actions are experienced as excessive '' .
Senior officers have said that operational decisions taken during mass gatherings must ensure they do n't make a difficult situation even worse .

Gatherings of more than six people are still currently illegal and Ms Patel is among those who have questioned whether police should have taken a more proactive approach to public order during the Black Lives Matter and other protests.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Heads angry as government downplays school 2m rule

Head teachers ' leaders have reacted angrily to a government attempt to downplay the need for social distancing in schools , ahead of full reopening .
A Department for Education blog says primary pupils in England do not need to keep 2m apart , and that : `` this has been the case throughout '' .
The National Association of Head Teachers called the blog post `` disingenuous '' .
But a DfE spokesman said the department was `` absolutely standing by it '' .
The blog says : `` Primary pupils do not and have not needed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are encouraging primary heads to use the capacity they have , and the flexibility we have given them , to bring more groups of children back into school if they can work within the protective measures . ''
But when primary schools reopened to more pupils from Reception and Year 1 and Year 6 at the beginning of June , most heads believed they were expected , if possible , to keep children 2m apart from each other , even within small `` bubbles '' of up to 15 children .
They went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ timetables and to rewrite school policies .
• Navigating the first morning at school since March Any full reopening of schools planned for September is likely to involve a relaxation of the 2m rule .
But the blog suggests the 2m rule was never set in stone for primary age children , and has drawn ire from head teachers ' leaders .
`` It 's a bit rich that the government is now downplaying social distancing when it is mentioned on a number of occasions in their own guidance , '' said Geoff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of School and College Leaders .
`` In summary , that guidance recognises that early years and primary school children can not be expected to remain 2m apart , but if settings can do so , they should do so , and that secondary schools and colleges should do so where possible . ''
Paul Whiteman , General Secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers said the union and many of its members were `` unimpressed '' .
`` Given the lack of clarity and the conflicting messages contained within the protective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggest that the position has ever been as definitive as is now being claimed , '' he said .
A Department for Education spokesman said there was no contradiction in the blog , claiming some schools had overinterpreted the guidance .
`` Our guidance has always acknowledged that early years and primary age children can not be expected to remain 2m apart from each other and staff .
`` Instead schools were asked to implement a hierarchy of controls to reduce the risk of transmission .
`` If schools could keep children 2m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so , but this was not required if the wider range of measures were in place , '' said the spokesman .

The blog says: "Primary pupils do not and have not needed to be kept apart in the classroom and we are encouraging primary heads to use the capacity they have, and the flexibility we have given them, to bring more groups of children back into school if they can work within the protective measures."


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Brixton street party: Met Police officers injured in violence

Twenty-two police officers have been injured during clashes at an illegal street party involving an estimated 400 people in south London .
Two officers and two people at the party were taken to hospital following the `` unlicensed music event '' in Brixton on Wednesday night .
Four people were arrested and the Met described the attacks on police as `` totally unacceptable '' .
Downing Street said `` violence against the police will not be tolerated '' .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said the government would shortly be launching a consultation on doubling the maximum sentence for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been clear that anyone who assaults the police or any of our emergency service workers who keep us safe should feel the full force of the law , '' the spokesman said .
A dispersal order had been put in place earlier in the day and police officers tried to encourage the crowd to leave following complaints from residents .
The event near Angell Town continued so more officers attended and the group became hostile , the Met said .
Footage on social media showed a number of police vehicles being smashed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also appears to show two men being attacked with a knife .
London Ambulance Service said two people were taken to hospital , with one needing treatment at a major trauma unit .
Four people were arrested for assault and public order offences .
They remain in custody .
Police later implemented a Section 60 order , which gives increased stop and search powers .
Local musician Clip C told BBC `` the disturbance '' broke out after the music was turned off .
`` People from this community , a good majority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the vibes were done , '' he said .
`` Loads more people just started coming from everywhere .
All of a sudden things started smashing and people started chasing each other - it started getting crazy . ''
Community activist Michelle Killington said she `` does n't agree '' with what happened but said the clash shows local children need more support .
She said : `` Angell Town is an amazing space , with amazing kids and amazing leaders .
But it 's not recognised for that .
`` We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work on young people and help organise events in a safe way . ''
Michael , a local bus driver who did not want to give a his surname , said it was `` very upsetting '' the violence had happened in his area .
`` The whole thing should have been shut down earlier , '' he said .
The day after the night before the only evidence on the Angell Town estate of what happened is some broken glass and plastic bottles .
People who 'd been at the event tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barbeque and music , but it `` got out of hand '' when people from other areas flooded in .
While condemning the violence , young people told me there is `` no relationship '' with the police and the community officers they knew do n't come around anymore .
I met a mum who said she 's been campaigning for a new youth centre .
`` The kids do n't have anywhere to go '' , she said .
Ken Marsh , chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation , said nearly 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` No-one expects this level of violence and hostility to just erupt at the speed it does towards police .
It 's horrendous , '' he said .
Mr Marsh also raised concerns about large gatherings when lockdown is eased and pubs reopen on 4 July , saying `` ultimately it always seems to fall on the police 's shoulders to deal with everything '' .
`` There is no place in society for disorder and wanting to cause violence and pain and grief towards public and police alike , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweeted : `` Just last weekend , the whole country came together to praise our heroic police officers for putting their own lives on the line to keep us safe .
`` I 'll be picking up with the Met Commissioner immediately . ''
Cdr Colin Wingrove said : `` These gatherings are unlawful , as well as posing a risk to public health and against coronavirus restrictions .
`` The violence shown towards officers is totally unacceptable and we will not tolerate it in any form . ''

"We have been clear that anyone who assaults the police or any of our emergency service workers who keep us safe should feel the full force of the law," the spokesman said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--World's most expensive sheepdog sold for £19k

A border collie from Brecon has become the world 's most expensive sheepdog after being sold for £19,451 .
The @ @ @ @ @ Valley Sally was bought by an unknown buyer at the Farmers ' Mart online sale @ @ @ @ @ Sally was sold by top handler David Evans of Libanus , Brecon , to an @ @ @ @ @ .
The average price for a working dog is about £2,000 .
The previous world @ @ @ @ @ , North Yorkshire , in February , when shepherdess Emma Gray of Northumberland sold two-and-a-half-year-old @ @ @ @ @ as a `` special dog '' , for £18,900 to a ranch owner in Oklahoma @ @ @

The previous world record was reached at Skipton, North Yorkshire, in February, when shepherdess Emma Gray of Northumberland sold two-and-a-half-year-old Megan, who she described as a "special dog", for £18,900 to a ranch owner in Oklahoma, USA.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: We're taking pandemic seriously, says beauty firm

Skincare firm Dermalogica has urged the UK to give beauty salons and spas a date for reopening as coronavirus lockdown measures ease .
Hairdressers , pubs and restaurants in England will be allowed to reopen on 4 July with safety measures in place .
In an open letter to the government , Dermalogica UK wrote : `` We assure you , we are taking coronavirus seriously . ''
The firm said there was `` confusion '' around why beauty salons are not allowed to reopen next month .
Writing to Business Secretary Alok Sharma , Dermalogica UK 's general manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a highly sanitised environment '' would put consumers more at risk of contracting the coronavirus , than a restaurant or pub with minimal social distancing measures .
`` The industry , which has a strong and existing standard on hygiene and sanitation , has been active in preparing to go back to work safely , '' he said .
The ten businesses still not allowed to reopen : Dermalogica stocks skincare products and treatments for acne in more than 5,500 spas and beauty salons across the UK .
Speaking in the House of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson said that contact services , such as nail bars or spas , would not be able to open until the government could confirm they `` can operate in a coronavirus-secure way '' .
But beauty and wellness industries argue that they require `` clarity on whether it will be possible to remain in business '' , said Mr Hermann .
In a survey of the businesses Dermalogica UK works with , 6 % have said they will be forced to close as a result of coronavirus-related lockdown measures .
Beautician Tara Williamson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a double standard from government , with hairdressers allowed to reopen , but beauty salons staying closed .
She runs The Beauty , Skin and Eyelash Lounge in Epping , Essex and had planned to open on 4 July .
`` It just seems crazy that we have no guidelines of when we can open and what is going to be happening , '' she told the BBC .
`` I do n't see a reason why we could n't open and it will obviously be a big blow . ''
The prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's public health experts will work with sectors which remain closed , to help them open `` as soon as possible '' .
BBC News has contacted the Department for Business , Energy & Industrial Strategy for comment .

Speaking in the House of Commons on Tuesday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that contact services, such as nail bars or spas, would not be able to open until the government could confirm they "can operate in a coronavirus-secure way".


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Driving lessons to resume in England from 4 July

Driving lessons are to resume in England from 4 July , House of Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg has announced .
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency will write to driving instructors later setting out plans to restart driving tests and resume lessons safely .
Mr Rees-Mogg said he wanted to help instructors `` return to life that is as close to normal as possible , as quickly and fairly as possible '' .
There will be a `` phased approach to resuming practical testing '' , he added .
Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland will set their own rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests .
When asked what advice will be given to instructors on resuming work safely , the DVSA told the BBC that `` more details will be provided in due course '' .
• Coronavirus lockdown : All you need to know about new measures • The learners waiting to take their driving tests Speaking at Business Questions in the Commons , Mr Rees-Mogg said : `` From the 4 July I am happy to say that people will be able to take driving lessons on a motorcycle , or in a car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a phased approach to resuming practical testing so learners have the opportunity to practice before taking a test . ''
He added the industry should return `` in a way that avoids a second peak in infections '' .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps later added : `` Driving lessons and tests are vital in helping people get to work and visit loved ones , and provide the skills for a lifetime of safe driving .
`` As the country recovers from Covid-19 , we can now open up our services to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How will driving lessons work with social distancing ?
AA Driving School , which also runs the British School of Motoring , said it was advising instructors that they should `` thoroughly '' clean vehicles before and after each lesson , `` paying particular attention to areas of the car that are touch points , such as door handles . ''
Other measures for instructors include : • Wearing face coverings and disposable gloves ( to be changed after each lesson ) • Keeping windows down throughout the lesson Pupils will also be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lesson and wear a face covering .
The AA said it considered the use of plastic screens , like in taxis , but said it was `` imperative '' that instructors could reach the steering wheel in an emergency , which was not possible with a screen .
Sarah Rees , managing director of AA Driving School , said the decision was a `` welcome relief for the thousands of people in England '' wanting to learn to drive , and the beginning of the end of `` an incredibly challenging time '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that instructors in other parts of the UK - where a return date was yet to be set - were `` being left in limbo '' .
Graham Quail , 52 , owner of Quail 's School of Motoring in Wirral , said the move was `` fantastic news '' and `` long overdue '' , adding that the lockdown period had been `` hard '' for staff .
The driving school , which employs 17 instructors providing lessons in Wirral and the surrounding areas including North Wales and Liverpool , was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bar teaching a few key worker students who needed to take a test for their jobs .
Mr Quail said the school has had systems to curb the spread of coronavirus in place `` since before lockdown '' - such as cleaning vehicles before and after lessons , and providing face masks and gloves for instructors and students .
But it is now `` eagerly awaiting '' official guidance from the DVLA for resuming lessons .
`` We 're looking forward to restarting , '' said Mr Quail .
`` We 're going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are kept safe and hopefully get people driving again . ''
He added that resuming lessons would also help those looking for work amid the coronavirus crisis .
`` A lot of our students come to us because it 's necessary for a job so I hope it will help kickstart this for them , '' he said .
Driving lessons and tests have been suspended since March .
However , there have been exceptions , with some key workers being offered both lessons and the opportunity to apply to the DVSA for @ @ @ @

Speaking at Business Questions in the Commons, Mr Rees-Mogg said: "From the 4 July I am happy to say that people will be able to take driving lessons on a motorcycle, or in a car, lorry or bus and there will be a phased approach to resuming practical testing so learners have the opportunity to practice before taking a test."


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: NI to move to 1m distancing rule from Monday

The Stormont Executive has agreed to reduce social distancing in Northern Ireland from 2m ( 6ft ) to 1m with restrictions from Monday , Arlene Foster has confirmed .
It comes days after the prime minister said England would move to `` 1m plus '' on 4 July , as its lockdown is eased .
The proposal was brought to the executive by Economy Minister Diane Dodds .
The first minister said hospitality businesses must uphold safety .
Mrs Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill also announced a series of other indicative dates for businesses and public facilities to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northern Ireland .
• Close contact services like spas and massage ; tattoo parlours , holistic therapies and reflexology from 6 July ; • The resumption of competitive sport from 17 July - with `` limited numbers '' of outdoor spectators , to be increased from 31 July ; • Other seated indoor venues such as cinemas and theatres from 29 July ; • Socially-distanced indoor spectators can return to sporting events from 28 August ; In relation to the 1m move , members of the hospitality industry had argued it was necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Q & A : What has and has not changed in NI lockdown ?
Hotels , pubs , restaurants and cafes are due to reopen in Northern Ireland on 3 July .
`` The reason why we believe we can move to 1m is in relation to having other mitigations in place to manage that risk , '' the first minister told the daily executive press conference .
`` Nothing is risk-free and it is important the hospitality and tourism sectors work with us . ''
`` We may need to amend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to step back if the need arises , '' she added .
The Stormont Executive has not yet made a decision on whether to make face coverings compulsory on all public transport , after it was reported earlier that would be discussed at Thursday 's meeting .
The first and deputy first said they have already advised people to wear face coverings in enclosed public spaces , but they understood it may not be practical if people are going out for a meal .
Face coverings will soon be mandatory when using public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irish Minister for Health Simon Harris confirmed on Thursday that the government hoped to regulate on the issue in the next week to 10 days .
Northern Ireland 's elite athletes have also been told they can begin to train indoors again from 29 June .
Athletes classed as elite include Olympians , Paralympians , professional rugby , GAA and football players and cricketers .
Until now , they have only been allowed to train outdoors , with some swimmers travelling to Dublin for indoor pool use .
Contact sports training on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Monday .
The first and deputy first ministers also confirmed that places of worship can reopen , as planned , on a wider basis from Monday as well .
They said `` great engagement '' had taken place with church and faith leaders about how services could be conducted .
`` What we want to do over the course of the next day or so is work out numbers in relation to weddings and funerals , '' said Ms O'Neill .
She added that the executive would discuss that in more detail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had not reached an agreement about whether face coverings should become mandatory on public transport - but it will be looked at again on Monday .
The first minister also revealed that the executive have been able to sign off funding for free school meals over the summer .
Earlier this week it was held up after a row between Sinn Féin and the DUP over the failure to implement a payment scheme for victims of the Troubles .
Mrs Foster said Finance Minister Conor Murphy would detail the funding allocations from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , which would include the estimated £12m to continue free school meals payments in July and August .
On Thursday , no further deaths were added to the Department of Health 's total of 547 , which mostly consists of deaths in hospitals .
A further two positive cases of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland were recorded .
The Department of Health has also said that Northern Ireland 's R-number - or reproduction number - `` remains steady '' between 0.6 and 0.9 .
It is the average number of people that one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to .
Mrs Foster also said the total number of infectious people in Northern Ireland is currently estimated to be fewer than 600 .
The World Health Organization recommends keeping a distance of at least 1m .
Some countries have adopted this guidance , often because they also insist on people wearing masks .
But it is not just about distance , but also timing .
The longer you spend in close proximity with an infected person , the bigger the risk .
Scientists advising the UK government say spending six seconds at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same as spending one minute at a distance of 2m .
Following the executive 's 1m announcement on Thursday , the chair of the British Medical Association ( BMA ) in Northern Ireland , Dr Tom Black , said the change is `` acceptable only if accompanied by a clear and strong recommendation from our government that people should wear appropriate face coverings in all indoor spaces outside of their own homes and in any circumstances outside of the home where there is potential contact at less than 2m '' .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northern Ireland government will measure the impact of this latest relaxation and to show there are clear and robust measures to ensure these changes do not result in more people becoming infected , ill , or die , or contribute to a second spike which could overwhelm the health service should that occur this winter . ''
Speaking on BBC NI 's The View , Pat Cullen , of the Royal College of Nursing , said there was some anxiety among nurses about the move .
`` Anxiety simply because they 're saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completely , '' she said .
`` We need to keep it under review , but I think for the health and well-being of the population of Northern Ireland , we needed to see that happen today and we welcome it . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: 165 cases at Kober meat factory

A total of 165 staff who work at a meat factory at the centre of a localised coronavirus outbreak have now tested positive for the virus .
Cases of the virus at the Kober factory in Cleckheaton , West Yorkshire - a supplier to Asda - were first confirmed by Health Secretary Matt Hancock .
Kirklees Council and Public Health England have not provided information about the size of the workforce .
Asda said the site had reduced capacity and healthy staff were fit to return .
Kirklees Council had said no-one at the factory had been seriously ill with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council said : `` The whole workforce has been offered testing and 165 individuals have tested positive for COVID-19 .
`` The testing is likely to have identified people who had mild illness , or even some not showing symptoms who may have otherwise gone undetected and could have infected others .
`` These positive cases are being followed up by the NHS Test and Trace programme and they are being advised to self-isolate for seven days .
`` Anyone identified as a close contact of a positive case is being advised to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a comment on the figure Asda referred to a statement it issued on Monday , which said : `` We have worked collaboratively with Kirklees Council and Public Health England since the site closed over a week ago and they support our decision to reopen . ''
It said the factory - which reopened earlier this week - reopened on a `` reduced capacity '' and only staff who had been tested and declared fit to return were allowed on site .
Asda said staff who were self-isolating would continue to receive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Kirklees Council Rachel Spencer-Henshall said : `` We 're satisfied with health and safety measures on site which include separation of colleagues on different shifts and as an additional precaution , checking the temperature of colleagues before they enter the site .
`` Our advice to residents is to continue to socially distance , wash hands regularly for 20 seconds with soap and water and get tested if they have symptoms .
`` Providing you have not been contacted and told otherwise , you can continue to leave the house following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
• YOUR QUESTIONS : Our experts have answers

"The testing is likely to have identified people who had mild illness, or even some not showing symptoms who may have otherwise gone undetected and could have infected others.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: What are the UK travel quarantine rules?

A two-week quarantine period for anyone arriving in the UK is now being enforced .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the move is to protect public health , because imported coronavirus cases `` pose a more significant threat '' .
What are the new quarantine rules ?
Passengers arriving in the UK by plane , ferry or train - including UK nationals - will be asked to provide an address where they will self-isolate for 14 days .
Travellers can be fined £100 for failing to fill in a form with these details .
Surprise visits will be used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Those in England could be fined up to £1,000 if they fail to self-isolate .
Passengers should drive their own car to their destination , where possible .
If they do n't provide an address , the government will arrange accommodation at the traveller 's expense .
Once at their destination they must not use public transport or taxis .
They must not go to work , school , or public areas , or have visitors except for essential support .
They are also not allowed to go out to buy food , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rely on others .
People returning from overseas will not be automatically eligible for statutory sick pay unless they meet the required conditions - for example displaying coronavirus symptoms .
Is anywhere exempt from quarantine ?
Currently , anyone arriving from the Common Travel Area ( CTA ) - the Republic of Ireland , the Channel Islands , or the Isle of Man - will not have to enter quarantine , as long as they have been in the CTA for at least 14 days .
And the government wants to relax the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries , with a series of `` travel corridors '' or `` air bridges '' .
Countries including France , Italy , Spain , Greece , Belgium , Germany , Norway , the Netherlands , Turkey and Finland are likely to be included .
This would mean that people travelling in either direction between the UK and these countries - where the rate of infection is currently low - would not have to self-isolate after they travel .
In the meantime , the government is currently advising against all non-essential travel abroad , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when quarantine will end .
The measures are due to be reviewed on 29 June , three weeks after their introduction , to check they remain `` effective and necessary '' .
Who is exempt from quarantine ?
There are a number of groups who are exempt , including : • Seasonal agricultural workers if they self-isolate where they are working • UK residents who ordinarily travel overseas at least once a week for work Do other countries have quarantine rules ?
Travellers could find they also have to enter quarantine when they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduced screening measures such as temperature checks , and entry restrictions .
• From 21 June , Spain will re-open its borders to UK visitors who will not have to quarantine on arrival • UK visitors to France are being asked to go into voluntary quarantine for 14 days after arrival • The US has barred entry to arrivals from the UK , with the exception of US citizens , their family members and `` individuals who meet specified exceptions '' • The United Arab Emirates has strict entry rules for foreign residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visa to travel to Australia What has the response been ?
Quarantine has not been welcomed by the UK 's travel industry .
Airlines UK , which represents various airlines , said quarantine `` would effectively kill off air travel '' .
British Airways , EasyJet and Ryanair have launched a legal challenge against the policy .
The British Ports Association , which represents ferry companies , has also spoken out against the measures - calling them `` overzealous '' .
Will airlines still be flying ?
EasyJet has restarted a limited number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all passengers and cabin crew told to wear face masks .
Ryanair plans to reintroduce 40 % of its flights from 1 July , subject to travel restrictions being lifted and safety measures being brought in at airports .
British Airways is reviewing its plans to run 50 % of its schedule from July , because of the quarantine rules .
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What Covid tests do I still need to travel abroad? Published 11 February 2022
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Fully vaccinated people travelling to the UK no longer have to take any Covid tests - either before departure or on arrival.
The prime minister has announced that he intends to remove England's remaining Covid restrictions at the end of the month.
What changes have come into force for vaccinated travellers?
Fully vaccinated travellers (two doses) and under-18s no longer need to take a test either before or after they arrive in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
To qualify as vaccinated, non-UK travellers must have received their jabs in a country or territory with "approved proof of vaccination". This now covers most countries in the world, with more - including China - due to join on 11 February.
What if I'm unvaccinated?
Unvaccinated travellers still have to show proof of a negative Covid test taken two days before departure.
They must also take a post-arrival PCR test two days after arrival. This must be booked before travelling to the UK and bought privately from a government-approved list of providers.
If this is positive, they need to self-isolate.
However, unvaccinated travellers no longer have to self-isolate on arrival, or take a test on day eight.
What other rules are still in force?
All unvaccinated travellers to the UK must complete a passenger locator form before departure.
How do I prove vaccinations and test results at the UK border?
Digital Covid passes showing your vaccination status can be downloaded to your phone, whether you're in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Test results can be in the form of a printed document, or an email or text on your phone. They must be in English, French or Spanish.
European Union residents can use the EU Digital Covid Certificate to show their vaccination status or test results.
Since 3 February, 12 to 15-year-olds in England have also been able to prove their vaccination status via the digital NHS pass.
What about other countries' rules?
You are responsible for checking the entry requirements for any other countries you wish to visit, as well as the local Covid restrictions which are in force. These can change quickly.
Many UK families have cancelled half-term trips to mainland Spain and the Canary Islands because children over 12 must be double vaccinated to enter.
Very few countries allow unrestricted access to those who have not been vaccinated.
It is thought more than 80 holiday destinations around the world still require all UK travellers to take a pre-departure PCR test before arrival.
UK-issued Covid passes can be used throughout the EU to show proof of vaccination - either digitally, or as a printed download (as long as it is dated after than 1 November 2021).


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus lockdown: All you need to know about new measures

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a series of measures to take effect from 4 July , easing the lockdown in England .
Meanwhile in Scotland , the five-mile travel limit is set to be lifted from 3 July , with more rules now expected to be eased later in the month .
From 4 July the 2m ( 6ft ) social distancing guidance will change in England .
The prime minister said that where it is not possible to stay 2m apart , people should keep a distance of `` one metre plus '' - this means staying one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce the risk of transmission .
Businesses are being asked to help by : • reducing the number of people in enclosed spaces • changing shift patterns so that staff work in set teams Northern Ireland has also announced it will reduce the distancing rule to 1m with restrictions .
In Scotland and Wales , the 2m distancing rule remains in place for the time being .
Restaurants , pubs and cafes in England will also be allowed to reopen , providing they follow safety guidelines .
All hospitality indoors will be table @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and customers will be limited .
Customers will also have to give contact details when they enter a pub or restaurant .
Businesses will be expected to monitor crowd density in their premises , including at pinch points - such as doorways .
• When will pubs , bars , cafes and restaurants reopen ?
Business Secretary Alok Sharma said he expected people to use `` common sense '' .
But he added there was a `` legal duty '' for businesses to keep employees safe .
Holiday accommodation - including hotels , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and caravan parks - can also reopen , and people in England will be free to stay away from home overnight for the first time since lockdown began in March .
But shared facilities - campsite toilets , for instance - must be cleaned properly .
Northern Ireland has also said that holiday accommodation can reopen for business from 26 June , and pubs and restaurants can open on 3 July .
Decisions on hospitality and holidays in Wales are expected in early July .
In Scotland , the hope is that from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up , along with indoor areas of pubs and restaurants and hairdressers and barbers .
Beer gardens should be able to reopen from 6 July .
Shopping centres and dental practices in Scotland could fully re-open from 13 July .
In England , two households of any size will be able to meet indoors or outside .
It will be possible to stay overnight .
This does not have to be the same set of households - the prime minister said .
`` It will be possible for instance to meet one set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others the following weekend . ''
However , the government does not not recommend meetings of multiple households indoors because of the risk of infection .
In addition , the two households would have to maintain social distancing - unless they were part of the same support bubble .
Outdoors , people from multiple households can meet in groups of up to six - but two households can meet regardless of size .
From 6 July , people who are clinically vulnerable and are `` shielding '' will be able to gather in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including individuals outside of their household , and form a 'support bubble ' with one other household .
In Scotland , people should be able to meet indoors with two other households from 10 July .
In Northern Ireland , groups of up to six people not in the same household can now meet indoors while socially distancing .
In Wales , any number of people from two different households can now meet outdoors - but meetings indoors are still not allowed .
What else will reopen in England ?
• More @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do so safely , including outdoor gyms and children 's playgrounds • Hairdressers will be able to reopen , as long as they take precautions .
Other close-contact services such as nail bars will not yet open , but the prime minister said they would be able to open `` as soon as we 're confident they can operate safely '' • Libraries , community centres , bingo halls , cinemas , museums and galleries will be able to open , along with funfairs and theme parks , amusement arcades , outdoor skating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Places of worship will be able to open for prayers and services , including weddings with up to 30 guests - subject to social distancing .
Singing will not be permitted • SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• JOBS : Can my boss force me to go to work ?
• WEDDINGS : Can I get married yet ?
What will remain closed in England ?
• Nightclubs and casinos remain closed , along with bowling alleys , spas , swimming pools , indoor gyms and soft play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be able to host live performances - but the prime minister said the government would work with the arts industry on specific guidance to enable choirs , orchestras and theatres to resume live events as soon as possible • CORONAVIRUS NEWSCAST : All of the latest updates on the pandemic • MINDFUL MIX : Calming tracks to help you relax Content available only in the UK

If you test positive for Covid you are no longer legally required to self-isolate, but you are advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days.