bbcuk--2020-09-26--What's in Boris Johnson's climate in tray?

A huge breakthrough in climate policy was signalled this week when China announced it will reduce its emissions to net zero by 2060 .
It 's a potentially game-changing leap , following in the footsteps of the UK 's existing 2050 net zero target .
But promises are easy , actions are more challenging - and the UK has been steadily slipping from its climate targets .
It 's consistently promised tougher policies for the future , but for a few years , Britain 's long-term climate strategy has lain buried in fog .
We know the net zero carbon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet see how the government intends to get there .
• UK can be 'Saudi Arabia of wind power ' - PM At last , in a contribution to the UN General Assembly ( UNGA ) on Thursday , the prime minister did briefly illuminate several paths towards carbon Nirvana .
But they 're only tantalising pointers to the direction of travel , when a full , clear properly funded roadmap is urgently needed .
In previous years , climate policy was typically held up in different government departments .
But environmentalists say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Downing Street logjam awaiting sign-off from the prime minister himself .
It prompts John Sauven from Greenpeace to plead : `` Some of the ideas the government is proposing are really impressive – but the prime minister needs to resolve disputes within government on environmental policies .
Now is the time for him to lead . ''
No 10 insists that deadlines for decisions on climate and the environment will be met in key policy areas like those in the long list below : The National Infrastructure Strategy will lay out plans for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Past spending might have been dominated by new roads , but the government has gone quiet over its £27bn roads programme .
New roads will increase emissions , and the Covid experience suggests some of the roads cash might be more wisely invested in broadband instead .
Radical ideas are under discussion for redesigning city centres , and for providing new electricity networks that ’ ll be needed to power electric vehicles ( EVs ) .
Emissions from transport remain high , but Mr Johnson is pinning his hopes on EVs .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the phase-out date for diesel and petrol cars .
It 's thought 2030 will be the new date , with plug-in hybrids allowed until 2035 - although that 's still in the fog .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps accepts that overall car use must also fall because even battery-powered cars contribute to pollution .
But that will need some behaviour change , which is against the PM 's instincts .
On aviation , the Citizens ' Assembly UK said people would support a tax on frequent fliers .
That would be truly radical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope clean technology will allow travellers to escape guilt-free to the sunshine .
There are planning issues in transport , too .
How does the government stop housebuilders building in places where people need their car to get a pint of milk ?
Heat is a Cinderella problem – more than a third of UK carbon emissions are created by heat production .
Ministers are being pressed to announce a date when gas home boilers will be phased out .
Industries want incentives for low-carbon heat , and Mr Johnson 's UN remarks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well-funded lobby trumpeting the role of hydrogen in heating and some transport , although that looks expensive .
The nuclear giant EDF is suggesting that nukes might be harnessed to generate heat , but there 's scepticism about this .
The government is also under pressure to stop buildings being demolished where possible , because new building materials create a lot of carbon emissions .
Mr Johnson told UNGA the UK could become the `` Saudi Arabia of wind '' .
Offshore wind no longer needs subsidy but progress is being delayed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their impact on birds , or fishing .
It does need help .
To the dismay of some green campaigners , Mr Johnson also committed himself to nuclear power – although it 's not clear if that means the behemoth Sizewell C , or multiples of mini-nukes called SMRs .
Perhaps we 'll have both .
But neither will happen unless the PM agrees government-backed funding .
The PM also declared himself for `` evangelist '' to the carbon capture technology that catches CO2 emissions from industry , albeit at a heavy cost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sceptical .
How will this be funded ?
Under international climate rules , each nation is obliged to produce its own decarbonisation plan .
Mr Johnson is urging nations to join the UK in doing that on 12 December , the fifth anniversary of the successful Paris climate conference .
But what will Britain 's revised target be ?
In the past , the Treasury has often blocked climate policies , but since the net zero law was passed , observers say it 's been generally supportive .
It needs to lay out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Campaigners say it should go further , with a `` green '' reform of tax policy – especially on gas .
The chancellor has earmarked £3bn for energy efficiency - £2bn of it for households .
It 's a huge job-creating measure , and the fund was due to be spent by the end of March .
But the insulation industry , which shrank when ministers previously withdrew funding , ca n't now absorb all that cash .
So the scheme is likely to be extended .
Experts demand a 10-year funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` green industrial revolution '' would create hundreds of thousands of jobs , and quipped the UK `` would never be lagging on lagging '' ( insulation ) .
While the PM was hailing the UK 's green leadership , he 's been accused of hypocrisy at home because he 's refused to ban the burning of peat moorland and the sale of peat for gardens .
Peat is the biggest store of carbon in the UK , but policies to protect it have been delayed after protests from country landowners .
Nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outline Environment Bill , hailing it a flagship of legislation .
But the PM has left this flagship becalmed in the Commons without a breath of Parliamentary time for nearly 200 days .
The Bill will set targets for improving air , water , waste and wildlife .
It will also create an Office of Environmental Protection to replace the European courts .
But until it 's passed , that office does n't exist , so , on Brexit day , British citizens will lose their ability to appeal if their government breaks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure group Greener UK has lost patience .
`` Nature is in freefall , '' she says .
`` The government ’ s promises look hollow . ''
The Bill sets out the framework for UK farm policy after Brexit .
The Lords are insisting it bans imports of chlorinated chicken and hormone-fed beef into the UK .
The National Farmers Union ( NFU ) president , Minette Batters , said allowing these imports would be `` morally bankrupt '' .
The government has repeatedly said it doesn ’ t want to import @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't have its hands tied in trade negotiations .
Farming is a major source of carbon emissions , and the government has been wrestling with policies that will cut CO2 from the land whilst also supporting farm businesses and restoring wildlife .
This is an issue of dizzying complexity – especially for farmers facing the shock of leaving the EU .
Ministers will be under pressure to risk riling their own supporters to eat less red meat to protect the planet - as well as their own health .
This long list – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seriously many departments are addressing what used to be considered a peripheral problem – the environment .
It also reveals how difficult it will be to enact policies .
Chris Stark from the Climate Change Committee told me : `` We 're in an unprecedented time .
`` We look to the PM for some leadership… it 's desperately needed .
But this feels like a very important and exciting period . ''
Mr Stark is optimistic about the political outcome of next year 's Glasgow climate conference .
But he admits a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with just one degree of warming so far , and the way things are looking we ' e still heading towards a highly dangerous three degrees .

It prompts John Sauven from Greenpeace to plead: "Some of the ideas the government is proposing are really impressive – but the prime minister needs to resolve disputes within government on environmental policies. Now is the time for him to lead."


bbcuk--2020-09-26--The day Brexit hit boiling point

The day Brexit hit boiling point

The order paper was blank and MPs were n't even supposed to be in Westminster .
But the day after the Supreme Court ruled Boris Johnson 's prorogation , or suspension , of Parliament was 'null and void ' , the cockpit of the House of Commons found itself full again .
Pitted against each other was a furious opposition who argued they had been unlawfully expelled from their place of work and an unrepentant government convinced the court had unjustly intervened and put at risk their central pledge of `` getting Brexit done '' .
Eleven and a half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as dead as dead can be '' ; the prime minister likened to a tin-pot dictator and accused of inciting hatred , and there were calls for an investigation into the `` toxic culture '' at Westminster after some of the ugliest scenes ever seen in Parliament .
• As it happened : Johnson faced angry MPs in Parliament The day was 25 September 2019 and in the words of then Speaker John Bercow : `` as an expression of parliamentary hostilities , this day was in a league of its own .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it before . ''
There were only a select few members of the cabinet who had had any idea about Boris Johnson 's intention to prorogue Parliament .
Amber Rudd , then a cabinet member in her role as work and pensions secretary , said she found out via a text from Phillip Hammond - the former chancellor who 'd been banished to the backbenches by Boris Johnson .
`` I called a couple of my colleagues and said 'did you know about this ? '
Nobody knew except the inner cabal who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tall , lean figure of Jacob Rees-Mogg , the leader of the Commons , had been spotted at Aberdeen airport with other members of the Privy Council on their way to meet the Queen at Balmoral .
One Cabinet member reflects ruefully `` had they not sent Jacob and someone more obscure , it may well have been that the Privy Council meeting would have just happened and none of us would have been the wiser till after the event .
The whole thing was cloak and dagger . ''
Another former minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bounced into it , the Sovereign was as well .
A morning cabinet call was swiftly organised to inform the team .
`` Every cabinet minister knew it was in fact a manoeuvre in order to stop members of Parliament being able to pass a bill so we could n't leave ( the EU ) without a deal on October 31 , '' Ms Rudd recalls .
`` Everyone knew it was a manoeuvre and everybody was told to go out and say something different . ''
Nicky , now Baroness , Morgan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the loop .
`` I was dumbstruck .
It was basically seen as a nuclear option .
`` I did n't raise my objections on that call but others did .
I did in other ways and other meetings .
`` But I think the prime minister was right .
He had to try lots of different avenues to get things moving .
At that stage the eyes of the EU were on the UK , the British government had to show we would take all measures to get this thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absolutely deadly serious about it . ''
The move represented a government prepared to countenance all options to get Brexit over the line .
`` I do recall Jacob ( Rees-Mogg ) saying he was prepared to look at any manoeuvre , '' Amber Rudd says .
`` He once told cabinet that he 'd looked at the possibility of impeachment of the speaker to see if he could have a manoeuvre to stop new amendments being passed to limit no deal preparations . ''
When Lady Brenda Hale delivered her withering assessment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , Boris Johnson was 3,500 miles away watching the judgement from the Westin Hotel in Times Square , New York City .
Travel plans were hastily being rearranged to get him back to Westminster as the prime minister was patched in on a call to a select few group of cabinet ministers and advisors .
They had been sitting in conference room 1 in 70 Whitehall , jaws dropping , as they watched the Supreme Court verdict on a big screen .
`` He was n't hurt , just angry , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the call .
`` He was cautioned against making any direct criticism of the judiciary .
Had he gone to war with the Supreme Court at that moment it would have turned a drama into a crisis . ''
Boris Johnson 's eventual public statement that morning said whilst respecting the court he `` strongly disagreed '' with their judgement .
Meanwhile Speaker John Bercow was in front of the TV cameras announcing that `` furloughed '' MPs would be back in Parliament the following morning .
For Labour , this meant curtailing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get everyone back .
As MPs slept before their return , the prime minister was operating on New York time attending a Commonwealth reception where he cracked jokes to delegates about his ill-disciplined Jack Russell and spoke to the United Nations General Assembly about the dangers of artificial intelligence and `` limbless chickens '' .
His RAF Voyager plane eventually set off from JFK airport at around 04:00 GMT - herb rubbed steak and New York cheesecake served to the PM before he got some shut eye .
As he flew back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Remain Alliance '' MPs lighting up with all involved asking : `` What should the strategy be ? ''
- the first message that day coming in at 04:50 BST .
Some wanted to bring down the government , others wanted to take control of the order paper to pass more laws , others sought valuable Brexit documents from the government .
But , with so little notice , it turned out they had no time to put a plan in place and the day played out instead with a series of urgent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons got underway at 11:30 BST , Speaker John Bercow remembers the opposition being `` cock-a-hoop , celebratory and condemnatory of a government that had lost the court case '' .
First up to face them was the Attorney General Geoffrey Cox .
As the man who had overseen the government 's counsel during the court case , parliamentarians wanted to know what advice he 'd given to the PM about prorogation .
Julian Smith , the then Northern Ireland secretary , and Amber Rudd had both failed in their requests to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Geoffrey Cox 's head on a plate , '' says the SNP 's Joanna Cherry whose urgent question had brought the Attorney General to the despatch box .
`` I was a little suspicious that this ( legal advice ) had been fed into the public domain by Dominic Cummings or someone like him in order to discredit Geoffrey Cox to pin the blame on him and take the political heat off the prime minister .
I was trying to get to the politics of what was going on at the heart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't calling for Mr Cox to resign there were many who were .
But , fighting back , the Attorney General turned the tables on Parliament itself .
His arms flailing wide - and in what Amber Rudd describes as a `` Brian Blessed voice '' - he said Parliament was `` dead '' with `` no moral right to sit on these green benches '' .
Turning up the volume , he went on .
`` Twice they have been asked to let the electorate decide , while they sit in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's votes .
This parliament is a disgrace .
`` But the time is coming Mr Speaker , when even these turkeys wo n't be able to prevent Christmas . ''
At this stage the government had no majority , it had twice had its election request turned down by the opposition , it had yet to secure a deal with the EU and was at risk of being boxed in by laws passed by its opponents in the Commons .
But ministers stuck to their line - that Parliament was blocking Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brilliance and sheer self-parody and descent into evident absurdity - not just self-parody but almost self-caricature - is thin .
But that dividing line exists and my own personal view was Geoffrey fell the wrong side of the line .
`` Yes he was articulate , yes he had a very good vocabulary , yes he was fluent , but I 'm afraid it was done in such an overstated fashion and to be honest in manner so manifestly , medal-winningly pompous and self-important that it made him look and sound , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Cox himself later conceded that `` perhaps I regret losing my temper in the House but I do n't regret the sentiments that I expressed that found a resonance in the country . ''
If the Attorney General was the warm up act , then the prime minister was the main event .
When Boris Johnson stood up at 18:30 BST to face a jam-packed Commons those expecting contrition , remorse or profuse apologies were sorely disappointed .
Slapping away the calls for him to resign , he sought to goad opposition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to call a vote of confidence and bring him down prompting a rapturous round of applause from those behind him , including former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith , who said : `` Boris Johnson is ultimately an oral pugilist , he has the body shape of someone who is a fighter .
That 's how he took that debate . ''
But it was one term - used 15 times in total - that was making opposition MPs particularly furious : the Surrender Act .
It was used by the government to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Act - also known as the Benn Act - passed by the opposition MPs before parliament was prorogued .
It compelled the government to request an extension from the EU to the Brexit departure date if a deal had n't been passed by a certain date .
`` I tried very hard not to use it , '' says then cabinet member Nicky Morgan .
`` I thought there were other ways to make the case for getting a withdrawal agreement in place but I was n't the one designing the campaigns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ language like this , as well as the tone struck earlier by Geoffrey Cox , was part of a concerted campaign ahead of any general election of pitting 'Parliament against the people ' - an attempt to portray the Johnson administration as the last remaining bulwark against a remain parliament striving to overturn the 2016 referendum result .
One cabinet minister said : `` That day there were two options - either go in and be overly apologetic and dull as ditchwater or you come out fighting .
Boris Johnson 's instinct was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using a turn of phrase that was getting cut through with the public , whether they liked it or not . ''
For beleaguered MPs some of whom were facing death threats and abuse on an almost daily basis this `` pejorative language '' , deliberate or not , was making their lives harder .
So when Paula Sherriff , Labour MP and the constituency neighbour of murdered MP Jo Cox , stood up she told the prime minister to tone it down .
`` We stand here under the shield of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this place subject to death threats and abuse every single day .
Let me tell the prime minister they often quote his words 'surrender act ' , 'betrayal ' , 'traitor ' and I for one am sick of it .
We must moderate our language and it has to come from the prime minister first .
He should be absolutely ashamed of himself . ''
His response : `` I 've never heard such humbug in all my life . ''
Reflecting one year on , Paula Sherriff says she was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response then and remains so even now .
`` There was genuine fear there .
People were saying 'oh you were screaming like a fish wife ' but I say to those people 'how would you feel if you were getting emails every single day saying you should be shot or hung from a lamppost ? '
Put yourself in my shoes for a day and imagine how that feels .
`` And I do absolutely hold the prime minister responsible for some of that - not all of it obviously - but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister , unfortunately he 's supposed to lead by example . ''
There were cries of `` shame '' from the opposition but Speaker Bercow decided not to intervene .
`` I thought the prime minister 's response was staggeringly insensitive .
But staggering insensitivity does n't necessarily constitute disorderly conduct . ''
The prime minister 's defenders believe he and Paula Sherriff were talking at `` cross-purposes '' , speaking past each other in the cacophony of noise in the chamber .
While some Tory MPs believe that Labour MPs came to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prime minister personally , such was their dislike of him .
But the controversy was far from over .
As the statement continued late into the evening , Tracy Brabin , the MP who succeeded the murdered MP Jo Cox , referenced her predecessor when she asked the prime minister to cease and desist his inflammatory language .
`` The best way to honour the memory of Jo Cox I think is to get Brexit done , '' was his reply .
One MP told of her own and others ' tears another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family of Jo Cox distressed at the scenes in the chamber that evening and at hearing their loved one mentioned .
Dominic Grieve , the former Conservative Attorney General , who had been kicked out of the party by Boris Johnson , said he found the prime minister 's performance that evening `` terrifying '' .
`` He appeared to be implying that the best way of avoiding the death threats is you do what I say . ''
Just as Brexit split families across the country it also split the Johnson clan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's conduct .
`` My brother using words like 'surrender , capitulation ' as if the people who are standing in the way of the blessed will of the people , as defined by 17.4 million votes in 2016 , should be hung , drawn , quartered , tarred and feathered .
And I think that is highly reprehensible language to use . ''
For the prime minister - as he said that evening - `` no confected outrage or synthetic indignation '' from his opponents would deter him in his central mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bruising parliamentary session , Boris Johnson tried to exit the chamber , only to be admonished by the Speaker .
`` Go and sit down '' he told him , with many MPs still seeking to put points of order directly to the prime minister .
But the chair was ignored and the prime minister left , later sending a text to Mr Bercow saying he intended no discourtesy .
`` It was contemptuous , '' says John Bercow now .
`` The prime minister did n't care .
So the post-hoc rationalisation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ text was entirely unconvincing . ''
One year on , we know what happened next .
An election , an 80 seat Conservative majority and Brexit achieved - the first stage at least .
The prime minister 's team will point to that as evidence their approach was the right one and he was on the side of the public .
Sir Iain Duncan Smith maintains that the way Parliament vented on 25 September 2019 reflected the frustration in the country .
The issue had to be settled once and for all : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ departure . ''
A cabinet minister admits : `` It was horrible to go through at the time - it was like a slow motion crash - but in the end probably all the pain and suffering was really necessary to make the bigger point to the public that Parliament had run its course and needed to be replaced .
`` Although it was very difficult and the parliamentary circumstances were horrible , it did n't in the end do Boris Johnson any harm when it came to the election .
`` On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the voters understood that prime minister had done everything possible to achieve Brexit - even suspending parliament . ''
Others , though , beg to differ : `` The fact they won that election does n't make it right .
I thought it was a dangerous way to treat people . ''
says former cabinet minister Amber Rudd .
`` This government operates on the basis that the ends justify the means .
Does n't matter whether it 's the law , does n't matter whether it 's people , does n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their lives , as long as we can get there .
Where do you stop ? ''
This day represented the apex of the Brexit fury where the divisions in the country were reflected by the furious exchanges on the green benches .
In terms of parliamentary drama - the rows , rancour and resentment - Westminster has seen nothing quite like it .
'The Day Brexit Hit Boiling Point ' presented by Carolyn Quinn is on Radio 4 on Saturday 26 September at 20:00 and available on BBC Sounds .

"We stand here under the shield of our departed friend with many of us in this place subject to death threats and abuse every single day. Let me tell the prime minister they often quote his words 'surrender act', 'betrayal', 'traitor' and I for one am sick of it. We must moderate our language and it has to come from the prime minister first. He should be absolutely ashamed of himself."


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Thomas Cook staff: Redundant twice in a year

`` It was devastating for both of us .
The entire household income was wiped out overnight , '' says Adrian Leary , former Thomas Cook cabin crew .
Both Adrian and his partner Paul Jones worked as air stewards when the holiday business collapsed last September , taking more than 9,000 UK jobs with it .
`` Paul had only flown for four years , I 'd flown for almost 25 .
I absolutely loved it .
I never had any intention of doing anything else .
I would have done it till the day I died , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he reminisces about the jobs they lost .
The couple realised they would n't get back into aviation when the pandemic took hold in March as airlines immediately cut flights and soon after , jobs .
After looking for other work , their local job centre in St Helens told them they qualified for an enterprise initiative , so they began planning something new .
On the platform of their local train station in Frodsham , Cheshire , Adrian and Paul spotted an empty building and an opportunity .
`` We negotiated with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of lockdown .
Then as lockdown eased we opened .
We 're a brand new business combining a coffee shop and interiors and gifts , '' says Adrian , although their café still has n't fully opened because of the continuing changes in guidance for hospitality due to the pandemic .
`` For a pair of old duffers , we had no idea on social media .
We had to learn Instagram and Facebook , '' says Paul , `` but it 's been absolutely amazing , we 've had such a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday they were absolutely packed , and they could n't believe it .
This week marked a year since Thomas Cook collapsed , so the pair decided to launch a special initiative to get their former crew back together : come by dressed in your old uniform and you 'll get a free tea or coffee .
• What went wrong at Thomas Cook ?
Today , Cathy Kirk Jardine , Betty Knight and Sandra Hutson have popped in .
`` The last year has been dreadful , '' says Cathy , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A year on she still is n't working .
`` It 's been really hard .
I do n't think employers actually realise what a talent pool crew are .
We were firemen , policemen , councillors , diplomats , medical staff - if something went wrong up there , there was no 999 to call .
`` It 's hard to get back into aviation because of Covid .
It 's a huge market now because so many others have been made redundant , '' she says .
Since the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been made redundant at UK airlines , according to the industry body Airlines UK .
Added to that are cuts that have been made by airports , baggage handlers and third parties that rely on flights and the ecosystem around airports .
Sandra loved her job .
`` Fabulous , everything you can dream of '' is how she describes it .
She worked for Thomas Cook for 23 years , and says she felt `` bereaved '' when the company collapsed .
`` I was very fortunate , I got a job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she says , standing neatly in her Thomas Cook uniform , looking like she 's about to depart for a long-haul destination , her hair in a perfect bun .
`` I was there for seven weeks and then the coronavirus hit .
I 've been furloughed since .
I do n't know yet what 's happening and if I 'll go back . ''
Matt McKay was a senior first officer at Thomas Cook for three years .
We first met last year , days after the business collapsed .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retired , '' he tells me .
`` I was aiming to buy a house , settle down and be living here close to my family . ''
His partner was expecting a baby a few months after Thomas Cook went under .
Matt had interviews with a number of airlines and then got a job with Aegean , based in Athens , which he says was n't ideal but the family would `` make it work '' .
Soon after starting , the pandemic hit .
`` I was there for three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was put on leave until the end of March and then made redundant . ''
Matt is n't alone in people who suffered this double whammy of redundancy in aviation .
I 've been contacted by lots of former Thomas Cook staff who took jobs with some of the UK 's big airlines , including Jet2 , BA and Tui .
In some instances , staff completed training courses , only to be made redundant before making a flight .
Others did just a handful and were then let go .
Matt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of self-reflection and realisation .
`` I do n't think I 'll be flying again until at least summer 2022 . ''
In the meantime , he 's starting his own business piloting drones for agriculture until the sector improves .
The collapse of Thomas Cook was at the forefront of what has been a devastating year for aviation .
And as Covid-related job losses mount , airlines like BA have said they do n't expect demand to return to levels seen before the pandemic for two to three years .
It means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have `` aviation in our blood '' , might have to wait a bit longer before they can return to the skies .

Matt isn't alone in people who suffered this double whammy of redundancy in aviation. I've been contacted by lots of former Thomas Cook staff who took jobs with some of the UK's big airlines, including Jet2, BA and Tui. In some instances, staff completed training courses, only to be made redundant before making a flight. Others did just a handful and were then let go.


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Barga: How Italy's most Scottish town coped without its annual 'invasion'

The connection is said to go back to the turn of the 19th Century , when large numbers of people struggling to find work in Tuscany decided to emigrate .
But this year the coronavirus pandemic has forced many to put their annual pilgrimage on hold .
So how has `` the most Scottish town in Italy '' coped without them ?
`` They usually arrive in Barga at that time and fill the bars , cafes and restaurants and take part in a lot of events going on in the town during the summer . ''
He said visitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been `` practically non-existent '' apart for a few `` hardcore '' ones who were determined to see their families .
`` Things were better in August when a new tourism arrived in Barga - made up of Italians who normally go away in that month . ''
His family came to Scotland in the late 1800s and he has been going back to Barga for more than 60 years .
`` I like Barga during the quiet periods , but you do n't expect to see it like this at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` Barga is a very special place , not only from the wonderful memories as a child and connections with family and friends but also because a big part for me is to visit the cemetery , '' she said .
She said she would miss being able to spend time cleaning up the grave stones and rearranging new flowers for her mother , grandparents and other relatives .
However , she decided to bring a bit of the spirit of the place to Scotland by producing a painting of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cathedral - instead .
Her Barga roots go back to her great-grandfather , who came to Lanarkshire and ran Zamboninis fish and chip shops in the area .
Her father moved north in the 1980s .
The family had big plans for this summer .
Her parents were due to spend four months in Italy , while Ms Bruce and her husband and two children had three weeks booked .
`` We were so sorely disappointed .
We miss our friends we have made that we only see in Barga , including those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
See you next year ?
That is certainly the aspiration of local businesses and those of the Barga diaspora denied their visits this year .
Mr Galeotti said the `` biggest hope '' now was for a `` reliable cure or vaccine '' to be discovered as soon as possible .
That , he said , would allow Barga to put 2020 behind it and , eventually , let it become nothing more than a `` bad memory '' .

The town - like the rest of the world - will have to wait and see if next summer will be more like normal.


bbcuk--2020-09-25--How common is it for walkers to be killed by cows?

How many cow-related deaths are there ?
What is it like to be attacked by a cow ?
`` She @ @ @ @ @ her legs so she was lying on top of me and started thrashing her head @ @ @ @ @ he explained .
How should walkers keep safe ?
It said cattle could become aggressive @ @ @ @ @ particularly when they had calves with them and particularly if a dog got between them @ @ @ @

How common is it for walkers to be killed by cows? Published 26 September 2020
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Incidents involving cattle injuring people remain rare, according to the most recently available data
A deputy head teacher killed by cows this week was the second dog walker to die after being fatally injured by cattle in Yorkshire this year.
Dave Clark was attacked in fields near Richmond on Monday.
In May, an 82-year-old man died from injuries he sustained while walking with his wife and dogs in the Yorkshire Dales.
But how common are these incidents and what can walkers do to protect themselves?
How many cow-related deaths are there?
Image source, Getty Images
Members of the public are rarely killed by cattle, according to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) data.
It investigates these incidents along with those that involve farmers and farm-workers.
Between 2015-16 and 2019-2020 the HSE investigated 142 incidents. Only 22 of them resulted in a death and the majority related to people who worked with cattle.
Members of the public accounted for only four of those deaths, the HSE confirmed.
It added that it investigated 65 non-fatal incidents involving cattle and members of the public over the same period.
What is it like to be attacked by a cow?
Image source, Mark Hartree Image caption, Mark Hartree was covered in scratches after the cow knocked him to the ground and sat on him
Such incidents may be rare but they can still be extremely frightening.
Mark Livesy was with his 82-year-old mother and friends when they were attacked by cows on land at Cartmel Fell in Cumbria.
His mother suffered a broken arm and her 15-year-old dog Harvey was killed during the 30-minute incident.
"It literally became a frenzy. The poor dog went to the ground and they just started to trample him," Mr Livesy said.
"My mother was knocked to the ground and they started trampling on her."
Mark Hartree, 53, was running in the Pentland Hills Regional Park on the outskirts of Edinburgh when a cow knocked him to the ground.
"She stood over me and collapsed her legs so she was lying on top of me and started thrashing her head against my head," he explained.
He said the episode happened so quickly and there was nothing he could do.
"I was in shock afterwards, it was traumatic, and the moral of the story is don't be complacent with cows."
How should walkers keep safe?
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The best advice is to keep your dog on a lead when near any type of livestock
The National Farmers Union (NFU) suggested walkers keep themselves safe by following the Countryside Code.
It said cattle could become aggressive if they felt threatened, particularly when they had calves with them and particularly if a dog got between them and a calf.
"If walking with a dog it [the code] recommends keeping dogs on a lead and under close control around farm animals and horses, but to release them if threatened or chased by livestock," a spokesperson said.
The organisation has campaigned for legal permission to allow farmers to divert public rights of way where livestock was present, though that has not been supported by some walking organisations.
The Ramblers Association said it would remind walkers to be "mindful and respectful" of farms and farm animals, particularly during spring when cattle would be rearing their young.
It has published full advice on how to avoid antagonising cattle and what to do if they acted aggressively.
Key ways to stay safe
Look out for any animals and watch how they are behaving, particularly bulls or cows with calves
Try to avoid getting between cows and their calves
Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you
Move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd
Keep your dog close, on a short lead, and under effective control
Remember to close gates behind you when walking through fields containing livestock
Don't hang on to your dog if you are threatened by cattle - let it go as the cattle will chase the dog and not you
Don't put yourself at risk by walking close to cattle
Don't panic or run - most cattle will stop before they reach you; if they follow just walk on quietly.
Source: The Ramblers Association
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bbcuk--2020-09-25--Being Scilly: Recreating the islands in cities and suburbs

Some regular visitors to the Isles of Scilly have created their own reminders of the islands in their homes , to help them feel closer to holidays they have not been able to enjoy this year .
`` I 've only ever cried twice when I 've visited somewhere but I sat on Samson beach and suddenly the whole story started to all come back to me and it was wonderful , so that 's what I 've tried to create .
Fiona Martin , from Walthamstow in East London , would have gone camping on St Agnes in May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But they were unable to go this year because of Covid-19 travel restrictions .
In the evenings they held zoom calls with the other families who would have been camping with them , with the owner of the campsite sending his own video message .
She said : `` It 's about as far away from our normal day to day life as you can get .
The children can wander off and roam quite safely , the scenery is amazing .
Even on the grey days it is fascinating .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being able to visit lately the boats are a wonderful reminder of Scilly in my new 'home office ' and hopefully I 've done my bit to record some Scillonian heritage along the way . ''
Early in the summer Mr Firmin , from Harpenden in Hertfordshire , thought a trip to the islands was unlikely so set himself a project to `` put in a pond and dedicated part of my garden , so it could give me my little bit of peace and calm and my Scilly satisfaction '' .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about Scilly ?
`` The peace and calm , the fresh air , the people , the sea , the local beer , the pubs - I just absolutely love it , as indeed the family do as well . ''
`` We 're starting from scratch with the garden , '' said Ms Francis , from Plympton in Devon .
`` It 's all been cleared and covered with a weed-proof membrane .
We 're just awaiting a builder to secure the front retaining wall and then we can get the plants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was `` the colours in the sea '' that she most loved , and she said a visit to the islands was `` like going back in time - so chilled out '' .

She said: "It's about as far away from our normal day to day life as you can get. The children can wander off and roam quite safely, the scenery is amazing. Even on the grey days it is fascinating."


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Coronavirus: Dawn sea swims help with lockdown mental health

A sea swim before dawn to help those struggling with mental health issues has been attracting more than 100 people @ @ @ @ @ set up the Win the Morning , Win the Day group on social media six @ @ @ @ @ meet up in Gosport with anyone wanting to get some exercise and talk about their @ @ @ @ @ every Friday at 05.30 BST and Chris has imposed coronavirus safety measures , such as @ @ @ @ @ six and enforcing staggered starts to the walk .
The idea is now gaining popularity @ @ @ @ @ in Leeds , Manchester and Bahrain .

A sea swim before dawn to help those struggling with mental health issues has been attracting more than 100 people every week.
Chris Reeves set up the Win the Morning, Win the Day group on social media six weeks ago, offering to meet up in Gosport with anyone wanting to get some exercise and talk about their problems.
The group meets every Friday at 05.30 BST and Chris has imposed coronavirus safety measures, such as splitting people into groups of six and enforcing staggered starts to the walk.
The idea is now gaining popularity, with groups also starting in Leeds, Manchester and Bahrain.
Video journalist: Ben Moore


bbcuk--2020-09-25--'Maskne': How to fight face mask breakouts

They 've gone from being something you normally only see on medical staff , to a part of everyday life @ @ @ @ @ coverings are compulsory in shops , on public transport and in many people 's jobs @ @ @ @ @ 're taking a lot of getting used to .
One of the problems they 're @ @ @ @ @ mask-related acne .
Consultant dermatologist Dr Sivanie Sewell has some tips on what you can @ @ @ @ @ wearing a mask but also how to deal with breakouts should you get one .
@ @ @ @ @ 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here .

They've gone from being something you normally only see on medical staff, to a part of everyday life.
Face masks and face coverings are compulsory in shops, on public transport and in many people's jobs but for some, they're taking a lot of getting used to.
One of the problems they're causing is 'maskne' or mask-related acne.
Consultant dermatologist Dr Sivanie Sewell has some tips on what you can do to prevent spots when wearing a mask but also how to deal with breakouts should you get one.
Video produced by Annabel Rackham
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Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here.


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Killed police officer 'big in stature, big in heart'

The commissioner of the Met Police has paid tribute to Sgt Matiu Ratana , who died after being shot in @ @ @ @ @ London .
Cressida Dick described the 54-year-old as a `` lovely man , highly respected @ @ @ @ @ of the public '' .

The commissioner of the Met Police has paid tribute to Sgt Matiu Ratana, who died after being shot in a custody centre in south London.
Cressida Dick described the 54-year-old as a "lovely man, highly respected by his colleagues and members of the public".
Read more: Police officer shot dead named as Sgt Matt Ratana


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Wine rampage CCTV shows abuse shop workers face

The CEOs of 23 retailers have co-signed a letter to Boris Johnson asking for better legal protection for shop workers @ @ @ @ @ comes as a private members bill – the Assaults on Retail Workers ( Offences ) @ @ @ @ @ tougher sanctions on aggressive customers .
The beginning of this video has no sound .

The CEOs of 23 retailers have co-signed a letter to Boris Johnson asking for better legal protection for shop workers who face abuse.
It comes as a private members bill – the Assaults on Retail Workers (Offences) Bill 2019-21 – called for tougher sanctions on aggressive customers.
The beginning of this video has no sound.


bbcuk--2020-09-25--The Papers: Suspect in police shooting 'on terror watch list'

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The Times says the beauty of the cardigan is its adaptability - and this is one verdict that must not be delivered in Ms Vardag's favour. With all due respect, the paper says, she needs to button it.


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Covid: Extra police patrols as bar curfew begins

Police patrols have been stepped up across Scotland to ensure the smooth introduction of a new pub and restaurant curfew .
All hospitality must now close at 22:00 in the latest raft of measures designed to halt Covid transmission .
Scotland 's chief constable promised extra policing as he urged citizens to act responsibily .
He also issued a blunt warning that organising , hosting or attending house parties was now breaking the law .
The Scottish government has revealed that 36 % of positive cases handled by Test and Protect mention social exposure , through hospitality or socialising with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aim of the measures was to reduce the amount of time people can spend in licensed premises and therefore curtail the spread of the virus in high risk environments while still allowing businesses to trade .
Soaring infection rates have prompted the introduction of strict measures on the hospitality industry across the UK .
Every pub has been ordered to observe the 22:00 curfew , with the threat of permanent closure for those who do not comply .
Chief Constable Iain Livingstone from Police Scotland said extra patrols would be deployed around closing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adhered to .
• Scottish university students told not to go to pubs • Curfew could be 'fatal blow ' to some pubs and bars At Friday 's Scottish government coronavirus briefing he said : `` Additional officers will be deployed across Scotland to support colleagues from local authorities and to monitor compliance .
`` I think it 's important for me to say that the vast majority of licensees have acted with great responsibility during this very challenging period - I pay credit to them and undertake that policing will continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He said that officers would `` continue to use good sense '' when enforcing the new rules .
He also issued a stark warning over the temptation to spill from the pub to a gathering within a house .
The chief constable admitted that the curfew could see an increase in house parties or gatherings as customers refused to end their nights early .
But he made it clear this would not be tolerated .
He said : `` During this extraordinary time where people 's freedoms , liberty and family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before , it is right and proper that the police service looks to engage with people , explain what is required of them .
`` If they refuse to do what their fellow citizens , their neighbours are doing , we will take enforcement action .
`` What is absolutely clear is that house parties and house gatherings are not permitted under any circumstances , there can be no excuse for arranging or attending a house party .
`` You must not organise , host or attend a house party or house gathering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' With local `` September weekend '' public holidays in many areas , the curfew marks one of a set of increased measures introduced to combat the rise of new infections .
On Friday there were 558 new positive cases of coronavirus reported in Scotland since in the previous 24 hours - the highest daily total since the outbreak began .
Of these , 255 were in Greater Glasgow and Clyde , where there has been a significant outbreak at University of Glasgow student accommodation Students at all Scottish universities have been told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Universities Scotland said students who go to parties or socialise with anyone outside their accommodation risks losing their place at university .
Universities will adopt a `` yellow card/red card '' approach to breaches of discipline , with students warned the consequences could include `` potential discontinuation of study '' .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she sympathised with students and she hoped disciplinary action would only be taken as a `` last resort '' against those who `` flagrantly '' broke the rules .
The Scottish government also said it appreciated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other hospitality outlets , but that restrictions were based on the fundamental need to reduce transmissions .
A spokeswoman said : `` Recent management information from our Covid-19 case management system suggests that around 36 % of cases mention social/recreational exposure , including hospitality or socialising with friends/family .
`` Although this data has many caveats and limitations , and therefore can not prove causality in terms of where transmission has taken place , it does help guide our response to help prevent transmission in such settings . ''
The hospitality curfew comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six '' came into effect in Scotland , limiting all gatherings , including those in pubs and restaurants , to no more than six adults from two households .
Venues are also forbidden from playing background music , must enforce strict rules on hygiene and distancing , and record customers ' details for track and trace data .
Hospitality industry organisations said the latest restrictions were a `` potentially fatal blow '' for many business .
Indoor visits between households are also banned across Scotland for the foreseeable future until the risk of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What are the restrictions in Scotland ?
• LOCKDOWN : Six months that changed our lives • CASES : Where are the latest cases in Scotland ?
• NUMBERS : Four key figures to watch out for

He said: "During this extraordinary time where people's freedoms, liberty and family relationships are subject to restrictions never seen before, it is right and proper that the police service looks to engage with people, explain what is required of them.


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Coronavirus: Number of positive Covid cases in NI passes 10,000

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Northern Ireland has passed 10,000 , according to the latest figures from the Department of Health .
There have been 273 new cases in the past 24 hours - that is the highest number of people testing positive under the current testing system .
It takes the number of people diagnosed with Covid-19 since the start of testing to 10,223 .
In the last seven days there have been 1,236 positive test results .
Earlier , the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency ( Nisra ) reported there were eight coronavirus-linked deaths registered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one more than the previous week , according to the latest bulletin from the agency .
The Department of Health 's daily dashboard reported no new deaths on Friday .
There are 46 people in hospital with Covid-19 , with five patients in an intensive care unit .
In a written statement to the NI Assembly , the Health Minister Robin Swann said he had been advised `` further interventions may be required to prevent an exponential rise in the virus '' .
Addressing the rise in cases and hospital admissions , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public health a priority , while also `` recognising the importance of keeping society and the economy as open as possible '' .
`` There is a tightrope to walk and , as I have told members many times before , no easy or pain-free solutions are available , '' he said .
`` I would urge members to continue to promote widespread public compliance with the coronavirus regulations .
`` The best way to avoid further restrictions on our lives is to follow the ones we now have in place now and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing , hand-washing and face coverings .
Mr Swann also said there was early evidence to suggest localised restrictions placed on a number of postcodes across Northern Ireland in recent weeks may have had `` some impact on reducing transmission '' of the virus .
Nisra said the virus had featured on the death certificates of 891 people in total by 18 September .
The Department of Health 's daily figure for the same date was 575 - more than 300 fewer .
Its statistics are based on a patient having previously tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there have been 479 deaths in hospital ( 53.5 % ) - 81 of those people were normally resident in care homes .
Taking that figure and the 355 who died in care homes , it means care home residents account for almost 49 % of Covid-19 related deaths in Northern Ireland .
In the week up to last Friday , three Covid-19 related deaths occurred in a care home .
Eight people have died in hospices ( 0.9 % ) and 54 at residential addresses or other locations ( 6.1 % ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 80 % of all Covid-19-related deaths .
In the week ending 18 September , the percentage of all Covid-19 related male deaths was 49.1 % and female deaths 50.9 % .
Those with an address in the Belfast council area account for 253 ( 28.4 % ) of the 891 deaths registered by last Friday .
Fermanagh and Omagh has recorded the fewest ( 17 ) .
The provisional number of all deaths between 12 September and 18 September was 322 - 26 more than in the previous week ( 296 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 282 ) .
That five-year death rate is used to compare the number of weekly deaths that would normally be recorded at this time of year .
Nisra also recorded the number of `` excess deaths '' registered in the past 25 weeks as 1,181 .

"The best way to avoid further restrictions on our lives is to follow the ones we now have in place now and strictly follow public health advice on social distancing, hand-washing and face coverings.


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Newport population of rare bees found for the first time

A `` nationally scarce '' species of bee has been found in Newport for the first time , conservationists say .
Buglife Cymru said it discovered a `` strong population '' of small scabious mining bees at St Julian 's Park local nature reserve last week .
It said it marked the first time the species had been found in the city or the surrounding area .
Conservation officer Liam Olds said : `` To discover a new population of this rare bee in Newport is very exciting . ''
• It 's not all about honey for Wales ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experienced a severe decline in recent times as a result of habitat loss .
They have a `` widespread but patchy distribution '' across Wales , particularly on the Castlemartin and Gower peninsulas on the south coast , according to the charity .
The discovery in Newport was made by Buglife 's Searching for Scabious project , set up to help halt the decline .
Pollinators such as bees keep crops healthy and are an important part of the ecosystem which keep nature ticking , according to the conservation group .
`` Two-thirds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pollinators , without them food production would decrease , '' said Mr Olds .
Buglife is setting up `` b-lines '' so that invertebrates like the small scabious mining bee can flourish throughout the UK .
These are chains of particularly appealing flowers across Britain to support healthy populations of pollinators .
Mr Olds said : `` We all have a duty to look after our wildlife and we should n't stand by and watch things go extinct on our watch . ''

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bbcuk--2020-09-26--Croydon police shooting: Suspect's background probed over Sgt Matt Ratana death

The Metropolitan Police is investigating the background of a man suspected of shooting dead a police officer in south London .
Sgt Matiu Ratana , 54 , who was born in New Zealand , died in hospital on Friday after being shot as a handcuffed suspect was being checked in .
The investigation is expected to focus on the motive for the killing .
New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said she was `` incredibly sad '' , telling those who knew him that `` we share your sorrow . ''
UK leaders have also been paying tribute to Sgt Ratana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his `` deepest condolences '' .
Sgt Ratana - known as Matt - was shot in the chest at Croydon Custody Centre at about 02:15 BST on Friday .
After the shooting , the 23-year-old suspect is then thought to have shot himself .
The suspect had initially been arrested for an alleged drugs offence and possession of ammunition .
The shots were fired as officers prepared to search the suspect - who was still handcuffed - with a metal detector , according to watchdog the Independent Office for Police Conduct ( IOPC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ condition in hospital .
Sir Peter Fahy , the former Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police , told the BBC : `` It 's very callous and it 's obviously going to cause a lot of fear for police officers .
It 's very upsetting for them as it makes them feel so vulnerable . ''
He said the circumstances surrounding the death appeared to be `` incredibly unusual '' , adding : `` There are procedures of searching prisoners before they are taken to police stations in vans or in cars , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to police stations and there are additional procedures because of screening for Covid .
`` It will be important to get out fairly quickly the circumstances to see if there 's anything that can be learnt about it . ''
Met Police commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said the shooting was being treated as a murder investigation and was not terror-related .
It was believed the suspect was known to counter-terrorism police , BBC home affairs correspondent Danny Shaw said .
The suspect had been referred to the anti-extremism government 's Prevent programme , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and carrying out terrorist activities .
As part of the IOPC investigation it is examining CCTV and police bodycam footage to establish how exactly the shootings took place .
The watchdog said the suspect was in handcuffs during the incident , with his hands behind his back .
A key part of that IOPC investigation will be to find out how thoroughly the suspect was searched before he was taken into custody .
Sgt Ratana came to the UK in his early 20s in 1989 and joined the Met Police two years later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Bay area of New Zealand and was educated at Palmerston North Boy 's High School , north of the capital , Wellington .
He would have been eligible for retirement in two months and had a partner and an adult son from a previous relationship .
Speaking on Friday evening , Dame Cressida described Sgt Ratana as a `` talented officer '' .
`` As a colleague , he was big in stature and big-hearted , a friendly , capable police officer , '' she said .
`` A lovely man , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and by the public , including suspects he arrested or dealt with in custody .
`` He was very well known locally and will be remembered so fondly in Croydon , as well as in the Met and the rugby world . ''
She added : `` I understand the great concern about how this happened and we will establish the facts .
We owe it to Matt , his loved ones and all other officers . ''
Boris Johnson was also among those who reacted to the news , tweeting : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , friends and colleagues of the police officer who was killed in Croydon last night .
`` We owe a huge debt to those who risk their own lives to keep us safe . ''
In a statement , New Zealand PM Ms Ardern said : `` To all Matiu 's whanau [ Maori for extended family ] across the world , we share your sorrow and have all our condolences . ''
And New Zealand Police - where Sgt Ratana worked between 2003 and 2008 before returning to the UK - also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Policing is a family . ''
When he was not working , Sgt Ratana was heavily involved in rugby coaching .
Ryan Morlen , assistant head coach at East Grinstead Rugby Club in West Sussex , described him as `` an absolutely lovely bloke '' .
`` He is a bloke who is just so passionate about what he does - it does not matter whether you 're the most talented or least talented , he will treat you equal , '' he said .
Police officers and members of the public visited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tributes .
England Rugby also paid tribute to the 54-year-old saying he `` gave so much for our sport '' .
Neil Donohue , a friend of Sgt Ratana who runs a gym which he used to attend , described him as `` inspirational '' and `` the nicest , most generous man you could meet '' .
He told the BBC the 54-year-old had gone into `` the custody side [ of policing ] purely because he had had enough out on the streets and he thought it was his safest option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his retirement '' .
`` It 's just absolutely tragic , '' he said .
A number of police officers have been turning their social media profile pictures black with a blue stripe to pay their respects .
John Davies , a retired officer who worked with Sgt Ratana when he was based in Hillingdon , west London , said he was `` a truly remarkable , strong and unique individual '' who `` left an impression on all those he came into contact with '' .
Former police sergeant Alistair Livingstone told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ utterly tragic .
It almost gives all police officers , whether serving or not , the ultimate reality check that although perhaps we feel invincible when we go out and do the job everyone expects of us , in fact the risks are very real and it stops you in your tracks .
`` The police are incredibly good when things go wrong like this .
Some of the best support police officers get is from each other .
Mental health is such a big issue across society so I hope the officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Do you have any information you can share ?
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bbcuk--2020-09-26--Coronavirus: More than a quarter of UK under stricter rules

More than a quarter of the UK population is set to be under coronavirus lockdown rules , as new measures come into force this weekend .
From Saturday in England , households in Leeds , Wigan , Stockport and Blackpool will be banned from mixing in each other 's homes or gardens .
In Wales , Llanelli will be subject to new rules from 18:00 BST , with Cardiff and Swansea following 24 hours later .
It comes as the rate at which the virus is spreading appears to be speeding up .
Meeting another household indoors was banned across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The R number - which indicates how many people someone with coronavirus infects - has risen in the last week and now stands at 1.2 to 1.5 .
A number above 1 means the virus is spreading within the community .
Meanwhile , the daily number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the UK reached a record high of 6,874 , government figures on Friday showed .
• Which areas are under local lockdown ?
• What are the UK 's coronavirus rules ?
In England , the `` rule of six '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurants applies nationally .
But extra restrictions are also in place in large parts of north-east and north-west England , West Yorkshire and the Midlands where the infection rate is higher .
The latest rules for Leeds , Wigan , Stockport and Blackpool came into force at midnight and ban different households from mixing inside private homes or gardens .
Support bubbles are not affected and friends and family can still provide informal childcare for children under 14 .
People are also advised not to socialise with people they do not live with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , shops and parks .
Leeds City Council leader Judith Blake told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme it was clear people had not been self-isolating if they had symptoms .
`` What we have got to do is make it reasonable for people , '' she said .
`` We are very conscious of the emotional toll on people and mental health issues that will follow .
And of course , it is a very different prospect going into winter , going into spring with light nights and good weather was one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is going to be very tough for people . ''
She added she was concerned about the situation at the universities in the city .
`` We have put a testing site into Leeds University , on the campus , '' she said .
`` We keep saying to the government we have not got enough community testing . ''
Later on Saturday , Wales - where the R number is between 0.7 and 1.2 - will see its first town-only lockdown , with people in Llanelli in Carmarthenshire banned from leaving town @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their household .
The same rules will then be brought in for Wales ' two biggest cities - Cardiff and Swansea - at 18:00 on Sunday .
People will not be able to enter or leave the areas without a reasonable excuse , the Welsh Government has said .
It means by the end of the weekend , about half of Wales ' population will be under lockdown - 1.5 million people .
And the total number of people across the UK living under stricter rules will stand at 17 million .
Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cardiff to behave as if the new restrictions are in place until they come into force on Sunday .
`` My experience is people are wanting to do the right thing , '' he told LBC .
Health Minister Vaughan Gething told Today restrictions were more focused on transmission in the home than the pub .
`` These are not the severity of the restrictions we imposed in March but they are real and they are serious , '' he said .
`` I think the more significant restrictions are taking apart the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We have good evidence it is contact in people 's homes that is driving it primarily .
That is then leaking into other areas where people have contact , including licensed premises . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he recognised `` the burden and impact these additional measures have on our daily lives but we must act collectively and quickly to bring down infections '' .
It comes as London was added to the government 's Covid-19 watch-list - with all boroughs classed as areas of concern .
Meanwhile , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ University have been told to self-isolate for two weeks in their student halls , after a spate of positive tests for Covid-19 .
Students said they saw security and police officers outside their accommodation and were `` told we are not allowed to leave '' .
In a bid to stop the virus spreading in Scotland , students have been told not to socialise with anyone outside of their accommodation or go to pubs , parties or restaurants this weekend .
In Scotland and Northern Ireland people are banned from visiting other households @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six may still meet outside .
The new Scottish rules were introduced on Wednesday and expanded localised restrictions which had been in place in Glasgow and parts of the west of the country .
• The UK is to give £500m to a new global vaccine-sharing scheme designed to ensure treatments for Covid-19 are distributed fairly • Demand for coronavirus tests has almost trebled among young children in England this month - but only 1 % were found to have the virus , figures show • The World Health Organization has warned that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two million before an effective vaccine is widely used • Fewer than 0.1 % of people stopped by police for not wearing masks on trains received a fine , figures have revealed .
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• SOCIAL LIFE : Is it safe to go to the pub ?
• GLOBAL SPREAD : How many worldwide cases are there ?
• TEST AND TRACE : How does it work ?
• TREATMENT : How close are we to helping people ?
How are the rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
You can also get in touch in the following ways : • Please read our terms & conditions and privacy policy


bbcuk--2020-09-26--NHS Covid-19: App users unable to input negative tests

People in England who test negative for Covid-19 are unable to share the result with the new NHS app for England and Wales if they did not book the test through it in the first place .
The app asks for a code to register a test result but a code is only received if the test is positive .
People who have been using the app since its launch on Thursday , and who had already booked tests before downloading it , have found that they are unable to stop the self-isolation countdown after reporting symptoms if they then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does not come with a code they can share .
`` That 's so confusing as the app does n't tell you that ca n't enter negative test booked outside it , '' said Prof Deborah Ryan , who originally contacted the BBC .
`` And the app still tells you to quarantine if you entered symptoms .
So this means I ca n't turn off the self-isolation alert in the app ? ''
In addition , tests taken as a result of the Office for National Statistics surveys , and those taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England lab , can not be shared on the app regardless of the result , according to a tweet from the app 's official account It is not clear how many test results would be affected by this .
The Department of Health said that using the app is `` entirely voluntary '' and advice to get a test or self-isolate can not be enforced .
Tests booked via the app will have the results automatically shared with it , it said .
According to the data analyst App Annie the NHS Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far .
`` By downloading this app you are helping protect yourself and others .
If you book your test via the app then the results will be automatically recorded in the app and the isolation countdown will be updated , '' said a DHSC spokesman .
If you are asked to self-isolate for 14 days because you have been in close contact with somebody who has tested positive , you are advised by health officials to do so even if you later test negative yourself .

People who have been using the app since its launch on Thursday, and who had already booked tests before downloading it, have found that they are unable to stop the self-isolation countdown after reporting symptoms if they then get a negative result, because it does not come with a code they can share.


bbcuk--2020-09-26--Dennis Skinner: Song about ex-MP tops Amazon download charts

A song about a former Labour MP has been topping the Amazon download charts ahead of Lady Gaga , Kylie Minogue and Bruce Springsteen .
Dennis Skinner , the so-called Beast of Bolsover , lost the seat he had held since 1970 , in December .
The track Tony Skinner 's Lad , by musician Robb Johnson , is a tribute to the acerbic politician , who grew up in Derbyshire .
Mr Johnson said he had always `` admired '' the ex-MP and trade unionist .
By Friday evening the track remained at number one in the Amazon best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minogue and Ghosts by Bruce Springsteen , in the Amazon best sellers .
The song is a mix of Mr Skinner 's speeches and quips , and lyrics referring to his parents and upbringing in Derbyshire , before his arrival at parliament 50 years ago .
`` We thought it would be lovely to get Dennis Skinner into the charts , '' Mr Johnson said .
`` I suppose it 's done so well because that 's an indication of the great respect he is held in .
`` On many levels I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's delegate to parliament .
I 've admired his politics and admired him even more that he enjoys singing . ''
Film maker Daniel Draper who made Dennis Skinner : Nature of the Beast , a 2017 documentary about the life and times of the ex-MP , produced the track 's video .
`` I speak to [ Skinner 's ] partner Lois quiet regularly .
He seems to be doing well .
`` The family have all been in touch about the song and its video .
I know Dennis has seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it . ''
Mr Skinner is known for his support for the miners throughout the 1984-85 strike and fighting for their pension rights .

However, the fact that download sales account for only about 4.8% of the overall music market might explain why the song did not feature at all in the Official Singles Chart Top 100.


bbcuk--2020-09-26--Covid outbreak: Manchester Metropolitan University students in lockdown

Students at two Manchester Metropolitan University accommodation blocks have been told to stay in their rooms for 14 days , even if they have no symptoms .
But some said they had no warning of a lockdown and are now trapped in halls of residence .
Megan Tingy , who studies at Manchester Metropolitan , said on Friday `` We were getting ready to go out and looked out to security and police outside the halls .
They say we ca n't leave .
`` We have n't received any emails from university about this and they seem to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Student Trisha Kakooza , who is from London , said : `` We had eight hours to go get food to last us for two weeks .
`` I have a job and it helps me make extra money since student finance is n't enough but now I ca n't go out to work .
Chip Wilson , 19 , said : `` We have been told we are not allowed to leave and , if we do , we can not come back , so now we are all stuck inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , many of us here have Covid symptoms but we can not get tests .
We can only get drive-through tests and none of us have cars , and even if we did we ca n't leave now . ''
The rate has also doubled in the city of Manchester to 1,026 positive tests in the week up to 22 September , compared to 515 cases in the previous week .
His said lessons were being conducted online `` so theoretically I could go and study from home but that defeats the point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my studies but to meet new people and enjoy the experience . ''
He added : `` I 've heard horror stories of massive parties in some of the halls around here… it is just frustrating that no one else could have foreseen that . ''
Jo Grady , general secretary of the University and College Union , said the Manchester incident was `` the latest catastrophe in a week where wholly predictable - and predicted - Covid outbreaks have caused havoc on campuses across the UK '' .
`` We warned last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of students across the country and the time has come for urgent action from ministers and universities to protect staff and students . ''

"On top of all this, many of us here have Covid symptoms but we cannot get tests. We can only get drive-through tests and none of us have cars, and even if we did we can't leave now."


bbcuk--2020-09-26--Military to support Birmingham's Covid-19 testing

Military support is being brought in to help with the coronavirus testing programme in Birmingham .
At a weekly briefing , the council 's deputy leader said it would assist civilian efforts to maximise the numbers of tests able to be done .
It comes as the number of cases in the city reached 107.6 per 100,000 people - the highest in the West Midlands .
The `` drop and collect service '' sees tests dropped off at a resident 's door and then collected by staff and is aimed at areas with high rates of infection , to provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave their homes and to encourage those who may not be proactive in getting tested .
`` We have been in talks with the military about them giving us some extra capacity for drop-and-collect , '' deputy leader , councillor Brigid Jones told a meeting of the West Midlands Combined Authority on Friday .
She said their assistance would be `` very much in an extra capacity , feet-on-the-ground sense '' and 500 council staff had also been redeployed to the `` drop-and-collect '' testing service .
Ms Jones said that there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 20 cases and Sparkhill has seen 70 cases in the last seven days and although testing has increased dramatically , the rate of positive cases to tests has also increased to 6.7 % .
`` Our plea to residents would be , if one of our staff knocks on your door , please take up the opportunity to take a test , '' Ms Jones added .

The "drop and collect service" sees tests dropped off at a resident's door and then collected by staff and is aimed at areas with high rates of infection, to provide a service to people who can't leave their homes and to encourage those who may not be proactive in getting tested.


bbcuk--2020-09-26--EasyJet 'hanging by a thread', says union official

An airline union official says he believes that EasyJet is `` hanging by a thread '' .
In a leaked recording obtained by BBC News , Martin Entwisle said the company was in a `` really , really dire situation . ''
Mr Entwisle made the comment after a meeting with the airline 's chief financial officer , Andrew Findlay .
EasyJet denies that Mr Entwisle 's claims in the recording reflect what EasyJet or its finance officer said .
The meeting between Mr Entwisle , three other representatives of the pilots ' union Balpa and senior EasyJet management took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subsequent presentation to EasyJet pilots , Mr Entwisle , an EasyJet captain and union rep , said , `` I think the easiest way to put it is that the company is hanging by a thread .
The situation is dire .
`` If we do n't have a good summer next summer and make a considerable amount of money , we really are going to be out of a job . ''
The recording comes from the presentation , which was given by the union officials to their members as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the airline 's offer of part-time working in order to save jobs .
The language used by union rep Martin Entwisle is stark .
However his presentation to fellow pilots at Easyjet , which was recorded and leaked to the BBC , is a pitch .
EasyJet and Balpa were , at the time , in the process of thrashing out a deal to mitigate redundancies .
After a prior meeting with Easyjet management , Mr Entwisle 's overall message to colleagues is that these are such extreme times , that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six months ago , is their best bet .
The recording does shine a light on just how bleak this winter will be for Easyjet .
But there is nothing to suggest that the airline 's predicament is any worse than that of any of its competitors .
Every airline has been burning cash for months and no-one can say when international travel will truly recover .
They 've all restructured and flight schedules have been dramatically scaled back in the short to medium term .
It is vital for all of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation has dramatically improved .
Like all airlines , EasyJet had to take drastic measures in response to the pandemic .
It placed around 80 % of its pilots on the government 's furlough scheme , and secured a £600m loan from the Treasury 's emergency coronavirus fund .
In May it announced that it planned to lay off up to 4,500 staff across Europe .
But the recording highlights other measures that EasyJet has apparently taken .
The airline , which at the start of the pandemic owned over 80 % of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has sold over 30 % of them , and leased them back , to plough money into the company , and `` more aircraft are about to be sold '' .
Mr Entwisle also said the winter is looking `` dire '' and will result in the airline cutting back significantly on its schedule .
He claims that peak flying each day during the winter `` is not going to exceed 90 aircraft in the UK . ''
The aircraft have all been allocated to bases but `` some of it is absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in excess of 50 - 60 % cuts , possibly this winter . ''
EasyJet has previously said it was closing its bases at Newcastle and two London airports , Southend and Stansted .
Balpa announced on Friday that it had reached agreement with EasyJet to avoid any compulsory redundancies .
Sixty pilots have left voluntarily , while 1,500 have opted for part-time working , around 75 % of all pilots at the airline .
In a statement EasyJet said : `` The recording does not reflect what EasyJet or its chief financial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole industry has been impacted by the pandemic , however , EasyJet has taken a prudent approach to capacity and the right actions on cash preservation .
`` The airline continues to keep all liquidity options under review , but no decisions have been taken .
`` Winter flying is always significantly lower than summer and EasyJet will continue with its prudent and dynamic approach to capacity over the winter .
No decisions have been taken and we will update the market in due course . ''

Like all airlines, EasyJet had to take drastic measures in response to the pandemic. It placed around 80% of its pilots on the government's furlough scheme, and secured a £600m loan from the Treasury's emergency coronavirus fund. In May it announced that it planned to lay off up to 4,500 staff across Europe.


bbcuk--2020-09-26--Covid: Llanelli lockdown set to start after coronavirus spike

Wales ' first town-only lockdown will come into force later .
Llanelli in Carmarthenshire will have restrictions imposed from 18:00 BST , making it the first town hit with restrictions without the rest of the surrounding county .
Wales ' two biggest cities - Cardiff and Swansea - will follow suit 24 hours later following Covid-19 spikes .
Health Minister Vaughan Gething told BBC Breakfast the situation was `` very serious '' and comparable with February .
`` We ended large parts of NHS activity about two weeks later .
We had a full lockdown three and a bit weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We 've seen a sharp rise in cases in all the areas we 're taking local restrictions and it 's being driven by indoor household contacts , so more people than should be in that household going in and mixing .
`` And that 's extending out into licensed premises as well where , again , people are n't following the rules .
`` You can go out for a drink but only with people in your household bubble . ''
People in 13 ward areas in Llanelli can not leave town , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own household .
The town has seen 85 coronavirus cases over the past week - compared to 24 across the rest of Carmarthenshire .
• What can I do during local lockdowns ?
• Figuring out the stats on coronavirus in Wales • Where do the 14.6 million people under new rules live ?
`` It is worrying to see how sharply the number of positive cases has risen in the Llanelli area and action has had to be taken to help stop the spread and break the chain of infections concentrated in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown , '' said Carmarthenshire council leader Emlyn Dole .
`` Through the test and tracing we can track the rise in cases back , in some instances , to establishments maybe who have n't been paying as much heed to the restrictions as the rest of us to social distancing , and to ensuring that social distancing is kept in places where the public meet .
`` That , I guess , has led to the spike in cases , '' he told Radio Wales Breakfast .
The rate of infection across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per 100,000 of the population - it is just 18 per 100,000 for the rest of the county .
It places Llanelli in the top three weekly infections rates across Wales , alongside Blaenau Gwent on 202 per 100,000 and Merthyr Tydfil at 169 per 100,000 .
Chairwoman of Hywel Dda University Health Board , Maria Battle , said : `` Our local community has given us such tremendous support during the past few months .
`` To protect the health of our people , including the most vulnerable , and to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people with the care they need , we need the help of our Llanelli population and wider community now more than ever before . ''
Extra testing capacity is being introduced , with appointments at Parc y Scarlets , Ty ' r Nant at Trostre , and the Carmarthen showground .
Health officials said there should be `` no reason for Llanelli residents to travel excessive distances for a test '' .
Cardiff and Swansea go into lockdown from 18:00 BST on Sunday .
Swansea hit a seven-day rate of 56 new cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while Cardiff reached 38 cases per 100,000 .
First Minister Mark Drakeford urged people to behave as if the new restrictions were already in place , but told LBC that arrest by the police was a last resort .
`` If there are people who clearly deliberately flout the law you have to enforce , '' he said .
`` Yes , with fines if necessary .
But for us that 's the last resort , not the first resort .
`` In Caerphilly [ the first area in Wales to face local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very good levels of co-operation .
`` My experience is people are wanting to do the right thing . ''
Cardiff Central Labour MP Jo Stevens also warned residents : `` Do n't take this weekend to go on a massive bender .
`` It 's not going to be helpful , '' she told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast .
`` If people do that this weekend , it does risk further infection rates and that means we 'll be in local lockdown for longer . ''
Thomas Beynon , manager at Three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he was expecting to cancel about 380 bookings before the season ends in November due to the new lockdown in Swansea .
He said it was `` hugely deflating '' and meant `` strange times again '' after the business was hit by the national lockdown earlier this year .
Mr Beynon said customers had been `` very supportive '' by transferring bookings to next year rather than cancelling and seeking a refund .
`` We are extremely humbled , '' he said .

"To protect the health of our people, including the most vulnerable, and to ensure our NHS resources are available to provide people with the care they need, we need the help of our Llanelli population and wider community now more than ever before."


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Coronavirus: Sea swims help with lockdown mental health


bbcuk--2020-09-26--The Papers: Suspect in police shooting 'on terror watch list'

The police officer who was shot dead inside a custody centre in south London , Sgt Matt Ratana , is pictured on most of the front pages .
A friendly bear of a man who loved rugby is how Sgt Ratana is described in many of them .
The Daily Mirror says he was coaching at East Grinstead Rugby Club in West Sussex just hours before he was shot in a custody suite in south London .
All of the papers - with the exception of the Financial Times - carry front and back page advertisements for the government 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part in a `` big download weekend '' .
As ubiquitous on the inside pages are pictures of city streets left deserted by the 22:00 BST hospitality curfew in England .
One striking image shows blue-jacketed council inspectors , peering through a letterbox in London 's normally busy Soho district , checking for speakeasies .
`` Look what we 've become '' is the Daily Mail 's caption .
The figures - presented to the government 's scientific advisers in July - reportedly include deaths in care homes and hospitals in March and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what may happen if people continue to miss operations and cancer diagnoses .
The paper also points out a finding that if hospitals had been overrun with coronavirus cases , the number of those who would have died due to the virus could have reached 1.4 million .
Nonetheless the Mail believes the document will further increase pressure on Boris Johnson , not to introduce further restrictions .
Ministers are said to be willing to do `` whatever it takes '' to ensure families can meet over the festive period .
If the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no vaccine , the Telegraph says families may be able to isolate for two weeks before Christmas , to enable groups larger than six to meet safely .
Department of Health sources , however , urge a note of caution , saying nothing can be guaranteed at this stage .
The paper says it 's the start of a climbdown by No 10 in its row with Tory backbenchers over whether coronavirus restrictions can be introduced without the consent of Parliament .
Meanwhile , there 's a call in the Guardian for universities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potentially allow students to return home , until problems with the government 's test and trace system are fixed .
In an interview with the paper , the head of the University and College Union urges vice-chancellors to act now or - with infection rates rising - there wo n't be enough staff left to teach .
Economists tell the paper the chancellor 's new jobs support scheme is `` not a game-changer '' and unlikely to persuade firms to keep on staff over the winter .


bbcuk--2020-09-26--Fracking: Fermanagh council investigating 'significant error' in consultation

A council is to hold an inquiry after a `` very significant error '' was found in the wording of planning guidelines on fracking sent out for public consultation .
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has halted the consultation and set up an audit to find out what happened .
Councillors had agreed the wording of a local development plan to guide planning decisions .
But when it was sent out for consultation it had been changed .
The original wording precluded unconventional hydrocarbon extraction - or fracking - until there were guarantees that it would not affect the environment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief executive Alison McCullagh acknowledged the rewording of the public consultation had `` impacted adversely '' on public confidence in the process .
`` It 's apparent that the arrangements in place for document oversight and control were not as robust as expected , '' she said .
The original wording had stated the council `` will not permit exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbon extraction until it is proved that there would be no adverse effects on the environment or public health '' .
But the reworded version said : `` Council will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is sufficient and robust evidence on all associated impacts on the environment and human health . ''
Confidential council minutes showed officials in the Department for the Economy criticised the original wording .
They had suggested it be amended to more closely reflect the position on fracking in Northern Ireland 's regional planning document - on which local development plans are based .
The wording that appeared in the final version sent out for consultation by the council is similar to that in the regional document .
A spokesman for the Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans are required take account of the regional context set by the Northern Ireland Executive and central government departments '' .
`` The Department for the Economy provided a response to the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council draft plan strategy as a statutory stakeholder .
`` There is no requirement for the department to commence a formal investigation of staff connected to this matter . ''
Fracking is a process in which liquid is pumped deep underground at high pressure to fracture shale rock and release gas or oil trapped within it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ applied for an exploratory licence to assess the potential for shale gas in 608 sq km of County Fermanagh .
The licence is currently being considered by the Department for the Economy .
Were sufficient gas to be discovered , and a full planning application granted for commercial drilling , the gas would be recovered by a process of unconventional hydrocarbon extraction .
Fracking is banned in the Republic of Ireland and in England there 's a moratorium after concerns resultant seismic activity was affecting communities .

The original wording had stated the council "will not permit exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbon extraction until it is proved that there would be no adverse effects on the environment or public health".


bbcuk--2020-09-25--Rare bee found in Newport, south Wales, for the first time


bbcuk--2020-09-26--Coronavirus: Students 'scared and confused' as halls lock down

Students have spoken of their worry and confusion at being locked down in their university halls , in a situation described by unions as `` shambolic '' .
Up to 1,700 students at Manchester Metropolitan University and hundreds at other institutions , including in Edinburgh and Glasgow , are self-isolating following Covid-19 outbreaks .
In Manchester , students are being prevented from leaving by security .
Universities UK said the wellbeing of students was `` the first priority '' .
Robert Halfon , the conservative chairman of the Education Select Committee , said 3,000 students were in lockdown at universities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the government and its scientific advisers to reassure students and families by setting out the policy for England - and warned having students in lockdown at Christmas would cause `` huge anguish '' .
Mr Halfon said universities should also consider discounts to students who were not being taught face-to-face .
• Scottish students : 'Why have they sent us here ? '
Manchester Met said it had introduced a 14-day self-isolation period at its accommodation at Birley and Cambridge Halls after 127 students tested positive for the virus .
Some students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go out on Friday night when they looked outside to see security guards and police , who told them they could not leave .
First-year Joe Byrne said : `` We have had no warning , support or advice from the university about how we get food etc , and instead have been left completely in the dark and practically locked up against our will . ''
Megan Tingey said she was not contacted by the university about the lockdown before police turned up outside her Birley Vine accommodation .
`` It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` No one 's really told us much and then the police turn up as well with security outside . ''
Another student , Ellie Jackson , told BBC News she had read about the halls lockdown in the local newspaper before receiving an email about it - and stressed the need for `` more guidance '' from the university .
For Ellie , it is the second period of self-isolation she and her five housemates have had to undertake .
`` My course is all online - I have n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` I could have done this at home .
I do n't think it 's worth the money at the moment . ''
In a statement , Manchester Met said it had communicated with students `` as soon as we could but it was not possible to give significant advanced notice due to the requirement to implement the isolation almost immediately '' .
`` The communications we sent included details about how to access food and other provisions and we have been working with other partners , including local supermarkets , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the statement said .
`` Our security teams will increase patrols to support the lockdown and we will take disciplinary action against any students found to have breached requirements . ''
Meanwhile , students across all of Scotland have been told not to go to pubs , parties or restaurants over the weekend and Universities Scotland has said students who socialise with anyone outside of their household risk losing their place at university .
Hundreds of students are isolating at Glasgow University because of two coronavirus clusters .
The university said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all students in university residences in recognition of the `` difficult circumstances '' under which they were living .
It said those students would also be given £50 each to spend on food and it would invite local mobile food outlets to come to residences .
Reese Chamberlain , an international student at the University of Edinburgh , said his entire block at Holland House was `` locked down '' after a student tested positive .
`` The situation is dire , '' he said .
`` I already self-isolated when I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so difficult getting basic supplies . ''
He said there had been an `` exodus of students '' during the night on Friday , with more than 50 leaving the building .
A spokesperson for the university said it was `` not asking for whole halls of student accommodation to self-isolate '' but there were currently `` a small number of positive cases '' and the university was providing care and support to those self-isolating .
University and College Union general secretary Jo Grady described the lockdown at Manchester Met as `` the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ predictable - and predicted - Covid outbreaks have caused havoc '' .
There was `` no point encouraging students to come to university to self-isolate for a fortnight '' , she added .
And the National Union of Students ( NUS ) said students should be able to return to their families because being `` trapped '' in university accommodation would only add to their anxiety at an already difficult time .
It called for universities to support students with food deliveries and provide access to mental health services .
`` We must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and universities told students to return to campus and this shambolic situation now demands flexibility , '' the union said .
Students `` must be able to leave rental contracts , access online learning or defer , and do what it takes to prioritise their safety '' , the statement added .
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• SOCIAL LIFE : Is it safe to go to the pub ?
• TEST AND TRACE : How does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the government was working closely with universities in England to ensure they were prepared for the return of students .
A spokesman said : `` Students should follow the latest health advice , just like the wider public , which means they should stay at university in the event that they have symptoms ; have to isolate ; there are additional restrictions imposed locally ; or there is an outbreak on campus or in their accommodation . ''
Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said students were `` not to blame '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disciplinary action as a `` last resort '' against those who broke the rules .
Universities UK , which represents 139 institutions , said the health and wellbeing of students , staff and local communities was the first priority for universities , which would continue to follow government guidance .
• THE ASK MARTIN LEWIS PODCAST : Is there a silver lining to a Covid Christmas ?
• CRAFT BEER AND COVID-19 : How is the brewing industry coping during the pandemic ?
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A spokesman said: "Students should follow the latest health advice, just like the wider public, which means they should stay at university in the event that they have symptoms; have to isolate; there are additional restrictions imposed locally; or there is an outbreak on campus or in their accommodation."


bbcuk--2020-09-26--Coronavirus: Cardiff and Swansea get ready for lockdown

Wales ' two biggest cities are preparing for lockdown , which begins later .
The changed status of Swansea and Cardiff will take the number of Welsh local authority areas under heightened Covid restrictions to eight .
It follows the first localised lockdown in Wales , in the town of Llanelli in Carmarthenshire , coming into force on Saturday evening .
It means 1.5 million people - about half of Wales ' population - will be under lockdown by 18:00 BST on Sunday .
The restrictions will be the same as those affecting people living in Merthyr Tydfil , Bridgend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cynon Taf and Caerphilly , which are already in lockdown .
Swansea hit a seven-day rate of 56 new cases of coronavirus per 100,000 on Friday , while Cardiff reached 38 cases per 100,000 .
But the number in Llanelli was 152 cases per 100,000 - which is why the Welsh Government decided to bring in restrictions there a day earlier .
The whole of Carmarthenshire was not put into lockdown because the rate in the rest of the local authority area was 18 .
Llanelli town is in the top three places @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alongside Blaenau Gwent on 202 per 100,000 and Merthyr Tydfil at 169 per 100,000 .
Under the rules , nobody is able to enter or leave the eight counties and one town without a `` reasonable excuse '' .
People are allowed to travel outside the area for a limited number of reasons .
These include going to work if they are not able to work from home , to go to school , give care and buy food or medical supplies .