bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Ian Paisley clarifies 'jocular' remarks about NI Executive

Ian Paisley has said a comment about the NI Executive , emailed to more than 300 people , was made in a `` jocular manner '' and meant for a friend .
The DUP MP was responding to a member of the public who had emailed a number of MPs about contact tracing .
Mr Paisley replied : `` Mate , I would n't let any government , least of all the NI Executive , track and trace my movements '' .
He later said he `` supported measures to protect the health of the nation '' .
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs .
Mr Paisley sent the email , first reported by The Sunday Times , on Thursday night , but followed it up with a second email shortly afterwards .
'Hope you saw the funny side' It read : `` Oops , was replying in a jocular manner to a friend and obviously sent you all an email by mistake .
`` Of course I support measures to protect the health of the nation by our government and NI Executive .
`` Hope you saw the funny side of that .
Ian .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ test , track and trace strategy ?
The original email from a member of the public said the government should be focused on contact tracing , and called for responsibility to be `` devolved to local health centres who can be trusted '' .
Mr Paisley , who represents North Antrim in the Commons , told BBC News NI he did not know the person who sent the original email and was trying to respond to another MP , but accidentally replied to everyone in the chain .

Mr Paisley, who represents North Antrim in the Commons, told BBC News NI he did not know the person who sent the original email and was trying to respond to another MP, but accidentally replied to everyone in the chain.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Isle of Wight pterosaur species fossil hailed as UK first

A fossil of a species of prehistoric reptile , previously found in China and Brazil , has been discovered in the UK for the first time , a university said .
The delicate jaw fragment was collected by an amateur fossil hunter who spotted it while walking his dog at Sandown Bay , Isle of Wight .
The University of Portsmouth identified it as a tapejarid , a flying pterosaur from the Cretaceous period .
Researchers said it demonstrated a wide global distribution of the species .
Palaeontology PhD student Megan Jacobs said she saw the fossil on a friend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the collector .
She said she recognised the `` characteristic tapejarid jaw , including numerous tiny little holes that held minute sensory organs for detecting their food '' .
Ms Jacobs added : `` Complete examples from Brazil and China show that they had large head crests , with the crest sometime being twice as big as the skull .
`` The crests were probably used in sexual display and may have been brightly coloured .
`` It 's the first tapejarid found in the UK . ''
Professor David Martill from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` This new species adds to the diversity of dinosaurs and other prehistoric reptiles found on the island , which is now one of the most important places for Cretaceous dinosaurs in the world . ''
The Isle of Wight fossil had been donated to Dinosaur Isle Museum at Sandown for future display .
The university 's findings have been published in the journal Cretaceous Research .

Professor David Martill from the University of Portsmouth, said: "This new species adds to the diversity of dinosaurs and other prehistoric reptiles found on the island, which is now one of the most important places for Cretaceous dinosaurs in the world."


bbcuk--2020-05-28--The Bill actor Tony Scannell dies aged 74

Actor Tony Scannell , who played DS Ted Roach in ITV police drama The Bill , has died at the age of 74 .
Scannell played the character for nine years in the 1980s and 90s .
He was originally only meant to be in two episodes , but impressed the show 's producers and went on to become a much-loved character .
He also featured in Flash Gordon , Evil Never Dies and Waking The Dead .
His partner Agnes Lillis confirmed the news to the BBC .
Katy Manning , who played Jon Pertwee 's Doctor Who companion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tribute to Scannell as a `` wonderful actor '' .
The Cork-born star served in the RAF before turning to acting , landing a role in the 1980 film Flash Gordon , as an officer alongside Max von Sydow 's Ming the Merciless .
He made his debut as Ted Roach in The Bill in 1984 , and briefly returned in 2000 .
He was declared bankrupt in 2002 and continued working on stage , including in a production of the thriller Wait Until Dark at the Garrick Theatre in London .
Agnes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was the big love of my life .
We 'd been together a long , long time , and we grew closer and closer .
`` Our relationship had many different lives , and he had many different lives in the sense of character transformations .
He was very mellow and considerate . ''
Scannell is survived by Lillis , three adult children , two brothers and two sisters .
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bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Evening update as easing of lockdown will allow groups of six to meet

Here are five things you need to know about the coronavirus outbreak this Thursday evening .
We 'll have another update for you on Friday morning .
1 .
Lockdown easing to allow groups of six to meet Groups of up to six people will be able to meet outside in England from Monday , Boris Johnson said at No 10 's daily briefing .
Meanwhile , restrictions in Wales are also likely to be relaxed next week so people from two different households can meet each other outdoors .
And in Northern Ireland weddings with 10 people present may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed people from two different households will be able to meet outside in Scotland from Friday .
Dominic Cummings ' trip to Barnard Castle `` might have been a minor breach '' of lockdown rules , Durham Police has said , but no retrospective action will be taken against him .
The PM 's chief adviser has said he had acted `` reasonably '' and within the law after travelling 260 miles from London to Durham during the coronavirus lockdown .
No 10 said the PM now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and stressed police found his travelling to Durham did not breach the regulations .
3 .
R number is 'very similar ' across UK Coronavirus cases are falling at roughly the same rate across the UK , according to a leading scientist advising the government .
Prof Graham Medley said there was no evidence of differences in the reproduction ( R ) number across the UK .
Deaths and cases have fallen in every UK nation and region since early April .
The Premier League season is set to restart on 17 June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would begin with Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal , the two games in hand .
A full fixture list would then be played on the weekend of 19-21 June .
Clubs are still discussing the idea at a meeting on Thursday , but it is understood all have agreed in principle at this stage .
5 .
Is this the last hurrah for clap for carers ?
This evening , when the clock strikes 20:00 BST , the sound of clapping , cheering and wooden spoons hitting saucepans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we celebrate those working on the frontline of the pandemic .
But founder Annemarie Plas has said the 10th week of clapping would be a good time for it to end and for it to instead become an annual event .
So is this the end of the weekly clap ?
Get a longer coronavirus briefing from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning , by signing up here .
... you can check the rules on visiting friends or family , picnics and barbecues , with our updated guide .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on our coronavirus page and get the latest in our live page .
What questions do you have about coronavirus ?
In some cases , your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question : If you are reading this page and ca n't see the form you will need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website to submit your question or send them via email to YourQuestions @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include your name , age and location with any question you send in .
• HOSPITAL SPECIAL : The human stories behind the headlines • JESSE LINGARD 'S HOME WORKOUT : Can you keep up ?

Dominic Cummings' trip to Barnard Castle "might have been a minor breach" of lockdown rules, Durham Police has said, but no retrospective action will be taken against him. The PM's chief adviser has said he had acted "reasonably" and within the law after travelling 260 miles from London to Durham during the coronavirus lockdown. No 10 said the PM now "regards this issue as closed" and stressed police found his travelling to Durham did not breach the regulations.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: NHS tracer or potential scammer, how will I know? And other questions

I am supposed to be starting university in September .
Is there any point in me going this year or shall I defer until next year ?
Ultimately this is a personal decision , but it echoes what a lot of students are thinking right now .
A recent survey of students applying for undergraduate places found that more than one in five were considering deferring for a year if universities were not going to operate normally .
University campuses have been closed this term by the Covid-19 outbreak and there is no guarantee how far they will open in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has said it will have no face-to-face lectures in the next academic year , and the University of Manchester has said that , to begin with , its lectures will be taking place online only .
Other universities are considering a delay to the start of the academic year .
Before you make a firm choice next month , the higher education watchdog , Office for Students , says your university should give you “ absolute clarity ” on whether courses will be online , on-campus or a mixture .
And if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must be provided before clearing in August .
Once you have all the information , you need to weigh up what 's important to you .
Bear in mind the universities minister says you 'll have to pay full fees even if you 're learning online - but if you are offered distance learning you could potentially save on accommodation and other living expenses .
Also , if your university can offer a campus experience , access to facilities like libraries , bars and cafes is likely to be limited - so student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

How is the government going to protect vulnerable children who remain unvaccinated? My son has cystic fibrosis and will now be forced to mix - he has not had any access to vaccination.
Because your son is in a clinical risk group - and as long as he is over five - he should soon be offered two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. You should be contacted by your GP or specialist team to arrange this.
With regard to the dangers of mixing, the UK has also recommended that Covid vaccines are offered to all children aged 5 to 11, not just those at high clinical risk. This is likely to start in England in April. Children are generally at much lower risk of becoming seriously ill from a Covid infection, although some do still get sick and need hospital care. Over-12s can already be vaccinated, and it's hoped that extending the rollout to younger age groups will help protect even more children from the risk of catching and spreading Covid.
Schools are expected to work with and support families who have concerns about a pupil returning to the classroom. It is compulsory for school-age children to attend, even if they were previously shielding - the only exception is a small number of children whose clinician or GP has advised them not to attend. If you have concerns about this, you should talk to your doctor.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--MPs call for urgent action to save aviation jobs

Urgent government action is needed to safeguard jobs in the aviation industry and ensure its survival , a cross-party group of MPs has said .
The newly formed Future of Aviation Group issued the call in a letter to Transport Secretary Grant Shapps .
The group of 40 MPs complained of `` the lack of progress '' in providing wider support for the industry .
And they asked how often the government would review its planned quarantine for new arrivals .
From 8 June , people entering the UK from abroad will be told to isolate for 14 days or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plan has already attracted fierce criticism from the travel industry , with more than 70 travel bosses denouncing it in a separate letter to Home Secretary Priti Patel .
`` The very last thing the travel industry needs is a mandatory quarantine imposed on all arriving passengers which will deter foreign visitors from coming here , deter UK visitors from travelling abroad , and most likely cause other countries to impose reciprocal quarantine requirements on British visitors , '' the travel firms ' letter says .
Airlines have been announcing job losses and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in business .
The latest is EasyJet , which said on Thursday that it planned to cut up to 30 % of its workforce - about 4,500 jobs .
• What are the new quarantine rules for passengers ?
`` The wider aviation family makes a significant economic and social contribution to the UK and will be central to our long-term economic recovery , '' the MPs wrote to Mr Shapps .
`` We are therefore concerned at the lack of progress being made in providing wider support for the industry and in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will enable the sector to recover as quickly as possible and play its vital role in our national overall economic recovery . ''
The MPs called on the government to prioritise `` air bridges '' to restart safe travel to and from low-risk countries .
`` We need urgent action now to safeguard jobs , '' they added .
`` The consequences of inaction in this vital area are simply unthinkable . ''
A Home Office spokesperson said : `` As the world begins to emerge from what we hope is the worst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look to the future and protect the British public by reducing the risk of cases crossing our border .
`` We continue to support businesses in the tourism sector through one of the most generous economic packages provided anywhere in the world .
However , it is right that we introduce these new measures now to keep the transmission rate down and prevent a devastating second wave . ''
Do the quarantine rules apply to everybody ?
There are a number of groups who are exempt , including : • Medical officials who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anyone arriving from the Republic of Ireland , the Channel Islands , or the Isle of Man • Seasonal agricultural workers if they self-isolate on the property where they are working Initially , it was suggested the rules would also not apply to travellers from France .
However , the government later insisted the quarantine measures will also apply to them .
The travel firms say the sector contributed £200bn to the UK economy last year , around 9 % of gross domestic product .
But they say the government has been `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the point of absurdity '' when considering support schemes for the industry during the crisis .
The letter says the government `` must not exceed its mandate '' .
`` The people of this country do not wish to be prevented from travelling . ''
`` Quite simply , it is time to switch the emphasis from protection to economic recovery before it is too late . ''

"We continue to support businesses in the tourism sector through one of the most generous economic packages provided anywhere in the world. However, it is right that we introduce these new measures now to keep the transmission rate down and prevent a devastating second wave."


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Who are the contact tracers and what are they doing?

Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the 25,000 contact tracers they are the `` key to unlocking the lockdown '' in England .
But who are the people making the calls and what is the job like ?
Some of them are trained medical professionals , doctors and nurses taking a break from their usual career to join the fight against coronavirus in a different way .
Others were recruited from call centres or they are students looking for a summer job .
From Thursday , their task is to help discover who may have been in contact with a person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Many people who test positive will fill out an online form listing who they live with - the contacts who are most at risk - along with any they have been in close contact with ( defined as within two metres for 15 minutes ) .
• What if NHS coronavirus tracers contact me ?
• Hands on with the NHS coronavirus-tracing app Others , perhaps because they struggle with the technology , will get a call from someone like Lucy .
( Contact tracers have been asked not to talk to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . )
A student in biomedical science at a university in the south of England , she applied for what was advertised as a customer service job before learning that she would be working on coronavirus contact tracing .
Lucy says the idea of helping people appealed to her but adds : `` Honestly , I needed the money . ''
With her usual summer job in a pub out of the question , contact tracing was a rare opportunity .
She says she was hired the day after a `` very informal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about her customer service experience and the specification of her laptop - contact tracers are often working from home and some of them are using their own computers .
Tracers will work through a script on the call , asking people about who lives with them , when their symptoms started and whether they had been anywhere in the two days before they felt ill .
They may use cues to try and jog the memories of the more forgetful , asking people to check diaries , or reminding them of what the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question .
Lucy says if someone ca n't talk right then , they are directed to push a button and queue that person up for a call from another tracer later .
They 're also given a script to deal with family members sensitively if a person they are calling has died .
`` I feel very prepared for it , '' says Lucy , although she adds that the weeks before launch were sometimes confusing .
`` We 'd get one lot of information and then the next day , it 'd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changed now ' . ''
Imran , from Lancashire , was hired on a temporary contract for NHS 111 , but when the call volume dropped as coronavirus cases fell , he was moved onto the test and trace system .
He felt confident about the scripts and information they had for 111 but says they were `` thrown into deep water '' with contact tracing , having had no access to key systems before the launch and some `` very basic '' training .
`` The way the scheme has started on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people wo n't take this advice .
I do n't think they 're going to adhere to it , '' he says .
`` I do n't think there 's any room for making any more mistakes .
If this does n't work it 's going to cause a lot of issues . ''
Some staff with specialist expertise are given supervisory roles , dealing with more complex cases where a contact can not easily be found or someone is not sure of their movements .
Harold , who usually works as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now a team leader on the test and trace system , says he felt the launch was `` rushed through '' after waiting several hours on Thursday morning unable to log into the systems .
Originally he had been told it would launch on 18 May , until it was cancelled the day before .
He only found out it was starting on Thursday when it was announced live on TV .
Harold says he is `` not hugely optimistic '' the public would comply and self-isolate when they get a call from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult when you see people breaking rules , '' he says .
`` Everyone is confused what the message is . ''
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
But if someone like Harold has an issue he ca n't resolve , he can call on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Trish Mannes , who leads contact tracing for PHE in the South East , says they learned during the early stages of the outbreak that the important skills for tracers were empathy , rapport and an eye for detail .
`` It 's a bit like detective work , trying to work out exactly where people have been , '' she says .
Despite concerns about privacy , asking people about their contacts is a routine public health measure for infectious diseases , she says .
`` We collect this all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ willing to provide it . ''
Thursday 's launch may have experienced a `` technical glitch '' , Ms Mannes says , but calls were going out from 09:00 .
She says the test and trace system would be `` fully operational '' by 1 June - currently it is missing the mobile phone app which is intended to find contacts the infected person may not even know .
`` I think this will work , '' says Ms Mannes .
`` We 've recruited enormous numbers of people to help with this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this scale before - but we 're used to doing it in small doses . ''

She says she was hired the day after a "very informal" phone interview where she was asked about her customer service experience and the specification of her laptop - contact tracers are often working from home and some of them are using their own computers.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Is this the final hurrah for clap for carers?

On Thursday evening many of us in the UK grabbed our pots and pans , scooped up the dog , and nervously looked out of the window to make sure our neighbours were doing the same .
Then , when the clock struck 20:00 BST , the sound of clapping , cheering and wooden spoons hitting saucepan lids once again filled the street as we celebrated those working on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic .
But founder Annemarie Plas has said the 10th week of clapping would be a good time for it to end and for it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So is this the end of the weekly clap ?
On the Lissenden Gardens estate , in north London , like many places across the UK , the clap is credited with bringing neighbours together .
`` Even though I have lived here 17 years I have got to know people I never would have met , '' Andrea Dawson says .
`` It has basically brought love , which is the key thing to all of our lives . ''
As well as appreciating carers , the clap has brought people out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet their neighbours and even helped organise measures like the cleaning of stairways .
Frank Chalmers , of the Lissenden Gardens Tenants Association , said the weekly ritual has been `` very good for the community '' and promised to `` go out with a bang this evening '' .
`` There are people on the estate who have said they feel really isolated and they look forward to Thursday evenings , it is the highlight of the week .
They feel part of something bigger . ''
Mr Chalmers said as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now plans to hold regular concerts with local children performing , and to celebrate the local community , as well as sharing a weekly newsletter .
He says many residents felt now was the right time to end the clapping , fearing it could become politicised .
Yet others are happy for it to go on .
Sean Carroll , a matron at the Royal Free Hospital , said it had a positive impact on him and his colleagues and made them feel `` really valued '' .
So why are there calls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
The campaign originally began as a one-off to support NHS staff on 26 March - three days after the UK went into lockdown .
However , after proving very popular , it was expanded to cover all key workers and has continued every Thursday at 20:00 BST .
Since then , the shows of appreciation have got more extravagant , with displays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Westminster bridge drawing criticism over social distancing .
Messages have been projected on to buildings , airport runways have been taken over and the Woolwich ferry even span in the Thames .
Yet some have criticised it as an empty display while medical staff were `` overlooked and underpaid '' , as Labour leader Keir Starmer said .
Others pointed to the hypocrisy of applauding workers after holding VE Day parties or going to crowded parks and beaches , where people could spread the disease .
Some health care workers have also taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not applause they needed but personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , saying colleagues and friends died .
And there was particular criticism of politicians applauding while raising the health surcharge for non-European Union workers to access the NHS , a move the government later reversed .
Dr Meenal Viz , who is crowdfunding to bring legal action against the government over a lack of PPE , said the clapping had been a boost for medics but felt politicians had used it to give a public display of support .
`` Of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support from the public we always wanted , '' she said .
`` We work for the NHS system but it is the support of the public and our patients that really keeps us going .
`` At a time like this [ the clapping ] left us with a fuzzy feeling in our hearts .
`` But then we saw politicians appear on our screens and it almost seemed like a show . ''
Ms Plas , a Dutch-born Londoner , said it had been `` overwhelming '' to see how far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But she said it had now `` had its moment '' , saying it would be `` beautiful '' to end while people still felt positive about it .
She said she felt people had now shown key workers their appreciation and had concerns about it becoming too political .
Now , she said , the responsibility lay with the `` people that are in power '' to reward key workers .
Susan Masters of the Royal College of Nursing said some streets would stop taking part but others would `` keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer '' .
`` The clapping might drop off but the public support will not dissipate , '' she said .
Ms Plas said people were welcome to continue the tradition and said she planned to keep meeting her neighbours on Thursday evenings .
`` Tonight I will applaud but next week I will still go out and see who is out there and just want to check in because we are still in crisis , '' she said .
`` For me it is good to know who all my neighbours are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alone . ''

"Of course we are grateful, this is the support from the public we always wanted," she said. "We work for the NHS system but it is the support of the public and our patients that really keeps us going.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Dominic Cummings: Fact-checking the row

Dominic Cummings: Fact-checking the row

Durham Police have investigated Dominic Cummings ' relocation of his family to Durham during lockdown .
They found that when he subsequently drove to Barnard Castle to check his eyesight `` there might have been a minor breach '' of the law .
Mr Cummings has maintained he behaved reasonably and legally throughout the episode .
1 .
Why did Dominic Cummings drive his family 25 miles to Barnard Castle ?
Mr Cummings drove his family to Durham to stay at his father 's farm on the evening of 27 March , after his wife fell ill and suspecting that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next day he developed coronavirus symptoms and was self-isolating .
By 12 April Mr Cummings was cleared to return to work and wanted to travel back to London .
He decided to go for a drive first to see whether he could drive safely .
`` My wife was very worried particularly given my eyesight seemed to have been affected by the disease .
She did not want to risk a nearly 300-mile drive with our child given how ill I had been . ''
He explained that after parking on the outskirts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sick and the family walked `` about 10-15m '' and sat by the riverbank for about 15 minutes .
Durham Police have now investigated and said that if an officer had stopped Mr Cummings on the way to or from the town he would have been told to return to his father 's property .
If he had agreed no further action would have been taken .
The police view it as minor because Mr Cummings maintained social distancing - ie stayed more than 2m away from anyone .
Many people have questioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ability to drive with his wife and child in the car and said it was a breach of the Highway Code and motoring laws .
Others have pointed out that it took place on his wife 's birthday .
Cabinet Minister Michael Gove earlier defended the trip by saying it was `` consistent with the guidelines '' .
He also referred to a reason that Mr Cummings did not during his press conference .
`` It was part of the National Police Chiefs Council ( NPCC ) guidance that you could drive at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well , '' Mr Gove said .
But the NPCC guidance referred to by Mr Gove - which was publicised in mid-April - says `` driving for a prolonged period with only brief exercise '' was not likely to be reasonable .
2 .
Was the initial relocation to Durham a breach of the guidelines if not the law ?
When Mr Cummings originally took his family to Durham to stay at a cottage on the family farm , the police view was that the law was n't broken .
`` Durham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself at his father 's premises , Mr Cummings committed an offence contrary to regulation 6 of the Health Protection ( Coronavirus , Restrictions ) ( England ) Regulations 2020 . ''
The lockdown has been underpinned by both the law and various sets of government guidelines .
The police only deal with the law .
That says : `` During the emergency period , no person may leave the place where they are living without reasonable excuse . ''
The law gives examples of reasonable excuses such as obtaining necessities , exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But the list is not exhaustive which means there can be reasonable excuses that are not on it .
There are lockdown `` rules '' that are in the guidelines but not in the law .
When Mr Cummings drove his family to Durham he suspected his wife had coronavirus and the whole family should have been remaining in their home and self-isolating , according to the guidelines .
But he said he feared both him and his wife becoming incapacitated and unable to look after their four-year-old .
He has cited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` We are aware that not all these measures will be possible if you are living with children , but keep following this guidance to the best of your ability . ''
• Boris Johnson urges UK to 'move on ' from Cummings row 3 .
Should Mr Cummings have driven to a hospital to pick up his wife and child while he was sick with Covid-19 symptoms ?
On 2 April , Mr Cummings ' son was taken to hospital in an ambulance after he `` threw up and had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his son `` had recovered and seemed back to normal '' and Mr Cummings said he drove to the hospital to pick up his family as `` there were no taxis '' .
The night before Mr Cummings was so ill he `` could barely stand up '' , he said , and his wife 's Spectator piece described how he had a high fever and muscle spasms in his legs for 10 days .
As he had coronavirus symptoms like fever , Mr Cummings was supposed to be isolating .
On this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not get out or have contact with any strangers .
But were other forms of transport available ?
There were taxi firms who were taking patients home from hospital in Durham at that point .
However , the government guidance told self-isolating people : `` Do not use public transport or taxis . ''
But in March and April , the North East Ambulance Service ( NEAS ) policy was to offer transport for patients leaving hospital with suspected Covid-19 but without a confirmed test result .
Mr Cummings confirmed that his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but did not receive his negative result until `` a few days later '' .
So an ambulance could have taken them home .
A spokesperson for Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust , which runs nine hospitals and two accident and emergency units in the area , told the BBC they `` could arrange ambulance transport via North East Ambulance Service '' in early April .
4 .
Did Dominic Cummings return to work on 27 March while suspecting his wife might have coronavirus ?
Mr Cummings was seen running out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
His wife , Mary Wakefield , in an article for the Spectator magazine about having the virus , wrote : `` My husband did rush home to look after me . ''
In his press conference in the Downing Street rose garden , Mr Cummings said his wife was feeling a bit better after a couple of hours .
`` There were many critical things at work and she urged me to return in the afternoon and I did . ''
Public Health England ( PHE ) guidance , published on 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infected individual `` all other household members who remain well must stay at home and not leave the house for 14 days '' .
Mr Cummings returned home again in the evening and spoke with his wife .
`` She was ill. She might have Covid although she did not have a cough or a fever . ''
5 .
Why did Dominic Cummings say he had written about the threat of coronaviruses last year ?
In his prepared statement at the recent press conference Mr Cummings said : `` For years I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Last year I wrote about the possible threat from coronaviruses and the urgent need for planning . ''
Journalists quickly found a blog by the adviser from last year that mentioned SARS a single time .
But it was soon established by a bit of internet sleuthing that the blog had been edited to contain this coronavirus reference on the evening of 14 April this year , the day Mr Cummings returned to work from Durham .
When originally published it had contained just a link to another article .
Mr Cummings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ edit when he did .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW How to understand the death toll • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
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Dominic Cummings: Fact-checking the row Published 30 May 2020
Image source, Getty Images
Durham Police have investigated Dominic Cummings' relocation of his family to Durham during lockdown. They found that when he subsequently drove to Barnard Castle to check his eyesight "there might have been a minor breach" of the law.
Mr Cummings has maintained he behaved reasonably and legally throughout the episode.
1. Why did Dominic Cummings drive his family 25 miles to Barnard Castle?
Mr Cummings drove his family to Durham to stay at his father's farm on the evening of 27 March, after his wife fell ill and suspecting that he might soon fall ill. The next day he developed coronavirus symptoms and was self-isolating.
By 12 April Mr Cummings was cleared to return to work and wanted to travel back to London. He decided to go for a drive first to see whether he could drive safely.
"My wife was very worried particularly given my eyesight seemed to have been affected by the disease. She did not want to risk a nearly 300-mile drive with our child given how ill I had been."
He explained that after parking on the outskirts of Barnard Castle town, he felt sick and the family walked "about 10-15m" and sat by the riverbank for about 15 minutes.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Barnard Castle is set on a high rock above the River Tees
Durham Police have now investigated and said that if an officer had stopped Mr Cummings on the way to or from the town he would have been told to return to his father's property. If he had agreed no further action would have been taken.
The police view is that it might have been a minor breach of the regulations because Mr Cummings maintained social distancing - ie stayed more than 2m away from anyone.
According to Adam King, a senior criminal barrister at QEB Hollis Whiteman, "the use of the word 'might' makes clear that it's not the police's ultimate decision whether to determine reasonable excuse, that's for the courts."
"However, if the police's view was that it was a reasonable excuse you would expect them to say that, as they do in relation to the drive to Durham," he says.
Many people have questioned whether it was dangerous to test his ability to drive with his wife and child in the car and said it was a breach of the Highway Code and motoring laws. Others have pointed out that it took place on his wife's birthday.
Cabinet Minister Michael Gove earlier defended the trip by saying it was "consistent with the guidelines". He also referred to a reason that Mr Cummings did not during his press conference.
"It was part of the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) guidance that you could drive at that time in order to take exercise as well," Mr Gove said.
But the NPCC guidance referred to by Mr Gove - which was publicised in mid-April - says "driving for a prolonged period with only brief exercise" was not likely to be reasonable.
2. Was the initial relocation to Durham a breach of the guidelines if not the law?
When Mr Cummings originally took his family to Durham to stay at a cottage on the family farm, the police view was that the law wasn't broken.
"Durham Constabulary does not consider that by locating himself at his father's premises, Mr Cummings committed an offence contrary to regulation 6 of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020."
The lockdown has been underpinned by both the law and various sets of government guidelines. The police only deal with the law.
That says: "During the emergency period, no person may leave the place where they are living without reasonable excuse." The law gives examples of reasonable excuses such as obtaining necessities, exercise, medical need and travelling to work. But the list is not exhaustive which means there can be reasonable excuses that are not on it.
There are lockdown "rules" that are in the guidelines but not in the law.
When Mr Cummings drove his family to Durham he suspected his wife had coronavirus and the whole family should have been remaining in their home and self-isolating, according to the guidelines.
But he said he feared both him and his wife becoming incapacitated and unable to look after their four-year-old. He has cited a section in the advice that says: "We are aware that not all these measures will be possible if you are living with children, but keep following this guidance to the best of your ability."
3. Should Mr Cummings have driven to a hospital to pick up his wife and child while he was sick with Covid-19 symptoms?
On 2 April, Mr Cummings' son was taken to hospital in an ambulance after he "threw up and had a bad fever".
The next day his son "had recovered and seemed back to normal" and Mr Cummings said he drove to the hospital to pick up his family as "there were no taxis".
The night before Mr Cummings was so ill he "could barely stand up", he said, and his wife's Spectator piece described how he had a high fever and muscle spasms in his legs for 10 days.
As he had coronavirus symptoms like fever, Mr Cummings was supposed to be isolating. On this car journey, Mr Cummings said he did not get out or have contact with any strangers.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Dominic Cummings' full statement on lockdown row
But were other forms of transport available?
There were taxi firms who were taking patients home from hospital in Durham at that point. However, the government guidance told self-isolating people: "Do not use public transport or taxis."
But in March and April, the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) policy was to offer transport for patients leaving hospital with suspected Covid-19 but without a confirmed test result.
Mr Cummings confirmed that his son was tested upon leaving the hospital, but did not receive his negative result until "a few days later". So an ambulance could have taken them home.
A spokesperson for Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, which runs nine hospitals and two accident and emergency units in the area, told the BBC they "could arrange ambulance transport via North East Ambulance Service" in early April.
4. Did Dominic Cummings return to work on 27 March while suspecting his wife might have coronavirus?
Mr Cummings was seen running out of 10 Downing Street on 27 March. His wife, Mary Wakefield, in an article for the Spectator magazine about having the virus, wrote: "My husband did rush home to look after me."
In his press conference in the Downing Street rose garden, Mr Cummings said his wife was feeling a bit better after a couple of hours. "There were many critical things at work and she urged me to return in the afternoon and I did."
Public Health England (PHE) guidance, published on 12 March, stated that along with the infected individual "all other household members who remain well must stay at home and not leave the house for 14 days".
Mr Cummings returned home again in the evening and spoke with his wife.
"She was ill. She might have Covid although she did not have a cough or a fever."
5. Why did Dominic Cummings say he had written about the threat of coronaviruses last year?
In his prepared statement at the recent press conference Mr Cummings said: "For years I have warned of the dangers of pandemics. Last year I wrote about the possible threat from coronaviruses and the urgent need for planning."
Journalists quickly found a blog by the adviser from last year that mentioned SARS a single time. But it was soon established by a bit of internet sleuthing that the blog had been edited to contain this coronavirus reference on the evening of 14 April this year, the day Mr Cummings returned to work from Durham. When originally published it had contained just a link to another article.
Mr Cummings has not revealed why he made the edit when he did.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: What can you do in Scotland from Friday?

After almost 10 weeks of lockdown , some restrictions are due to be eased .
Families and friends will be able to reunite ( outdoors and at a distance ) , people will be able to play some sports and visit garden centres , and councils are due to reopen their recycling centres .
But with Nicola Sturgeon still urging people to `` stay at home '' as much as possible to contain the spread of the virus , life will remain far from normal .
So what exactly can people in Scotland do from Friday ?
Expect a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
From Friday , one household can meet up with another household - as long as they are outside in areas like a park or a private garden .
Despite weeks apart , they must resist the urge to hug each other as each family must remain two metres ( 6ft ) from each other .
Hand-washing and hygiene should also be a priority and people should avoid touching hard surfaces like gates , walls , fences and park benches .
In total , the group meeting up should be no larger than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the park but two households of five can not .
They are being asked to limit their meetings to one household per day , not meeting several families on the same day .
And if they are planning to share a barbecue , each household should bring their own food , cutlery and crockery .
People will also need to think about the distance they are travelling to meet family and friends .
The guidance says we should not go inside other people 's homes - so if your destination is so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use someone else 's bathroom , you should not go .
With a warm weekend forecast , the first minister has given the green light to more outdoor recreation .
From Friday , people will be allowed to sunbathe and sit in parks and open areas .
They will be permitted to travel locally - by walking or cycling - for recreation , but the government 's `` strong advice '' is that they should not go any further than five miles .
Ms Sturgeon said she did not want large numbers of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spots .
`` If you go somewhere and find it crowded , change your plans , use your judgement and go somewhere else , '' she said .
However , people will also be able to get back to playing on golf courses , as restrictions are lifted on non-contact sports .
Other sports which will be allowed include : The Scottish government says it is not an exhaustive list but people must use their own judgement and maintain physical distancing .
One-on-one personal training and coaching is also permitted if it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Businesses like pubs , cinemas , theatres , hairdressers and clothing stores must remain closed during phase one of the lockdown easing .
However , garden centres and plant nurseries will be able to open their doors from Friday , as long as they have distancing measures in place .
The construction industry will be able to start preparing their sites for reopening in the future .
And the government said it would no longer be discouraging drive-through food outlets from re-opening .
Businesses which are not obliged by law to remain closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ metres from each other .
Household waste recycling centres will also be allowed to re-open from Monday .
• Read the Scottish government advice to businesses on physical distancing • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?

The guidance says we should not go inside other people's homes - so if your destination is so far away that you will need to use someone else's bathroom, you should not go.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: How the virus is hitting some harder than others

Black men and women are nearly twice as likely to die with coronavirus as white people in England and Wales @ @ @ @ @ National Statistics figures .
The BBC ’ s Clive Myrie has been reporting from inside @ @ @ @ @ East London , which serves a large South Asian community .
He met the black @ @ @ @ @ the frontline , and saw the impact the virus is having beyond the hospital ward @ @ @ @ @ Myrie 's reports from the Royal London Hospital : Prayers for the sick in community @ @ @ @ @ News

Black men and women are nearly twice as likely to die with coronavirus as white people in England and Wales, according to Office of National Statistics figures.
The BBC’s Clive Myrie has been reporting from inside the Royal London Hospital in East London, which serves a large South Asian community.
He met the black and minority ethnic staff on the front line, and saw the impact the virus is having beyond the hospital ward.
Cameraman: Dave McIlveen, Producer: Sam Piranty
See more of Clive Myrie's reports from the Royal London Hospital:
Prayers for the sick in community hit by Covid-19 - BBC News
Life and death on coronavirus ward - BBC News


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: We answer kids' questions about going back to school

Coronavirus : What is a vaccine and how is one made ?
We look at the work needed to create @ @ @ @ @ might be ready for the coronavirus .

What will happen if someone has coronavirus in a school? Can you attend school if you live with a vulnerable family member?
With some schools in England beginning to return on 1 June, children have been sending us their school-related questions - with BBC Education Editor Branwen Jeffreys, on hand to answer.
Schools in Scotland and Northern Ireland are due to begin reopening in August, and dates are still to be confirmed for Wales)
Video journalist: Alex Dackevych


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Gatherings of six people allowed from 1 June

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that from 1 June , six people will be able to meet in public @ @ @ @ @ , such as gardens , as long as those from different households stay two metres @ @

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that from 1 June, six people will be able to meet in public spaces and private outdoor spaces, such as gardens, as long as those from different households stay two metres apart.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson deflects questions to scientists about Dominic Cummings

Prime Minister Boris Johnson intervened during Thursday 's daily coronvirus briefing to prevent scientific advisors Professor Chris Whitty and Sir @ @ @ @ @ his aide , Dominic Cummings .
Mr Johnson said he wanted to `` protect them @ @ @ @ @ attempt to ask a political question '' .

Prime Minister Boris Johnson intervened during Thursday's daily coronavirus briefing to prevent scientific advisors Professor Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance answering questions about his aide, Dominic Cummings.
Mr Johnson said he wanted to "protect them" from "an unnecessary attempt to ask a political question".


bbcuk--2020-05-28--The Papers: 'Happy Monday' on the way and 'football's coming home'

The various socially-distanced get-togethers that will be allowed from next week are listed by the Daily Express : barbecues , @ @ @ @ @ in parks , beaches and other outdoor venues .
While the paper greets the news @ @ @ @ @ n't wait till we meet again '' , it does spare a thought for those @ @ @ @ @ - pointing out that shielding advice for the most vulnerable to coronavirus remains in force @

But it suggests his possible departure has nothing to do with the row about his trip to County Durham during the lockdown. The Mail says it's been told by "well-placed sources" that Mr Cummings wants to be in the post to see out his two main aims: cutting the UK's ties with the EU, and shaking up the civil service. But once those are achieved, he could resign.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--NHS Seacole: Covid-19 rehab centre takes first patients

The first hospital dedicated to helping coronavirus patients recover from the long-term effects of the illness has received its first patients .
Surrey 's NHS Seacole Centre opened this month at Headley Court , a former rehab centre for injured soldiers .
Covid-19 patients can be left with tracheostomy wounds from having a tube inserted in the windpipe or need heart , lung or muscle therapy , the NHS said .
Others who have survived the virus may need psychological or social care .
NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said : `` While our country is now emerging from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're now seeing a substantial new need for rehab and aftercare . ''
He said while patients had survived life-threatening complications , many would see a longer-lasting impact on their health .
More than 100 staff members have been recruited to work at the centre near Leatherhead , with initial plans for 130 beds and capacity for up to 300 if needed .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said frontline NHS staff had saved tens of thousands of lives and , while the battle with Covid-19 continued , NHS Seacole would provide dedicated rehab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people this can be a debilitating illness , with lasting effects .
`` The new NHS Seacole Centre is just the start as the NHS rapidly strengthens community support to help those affected return home to their loved ones , and to full health . ''
Named after the pioneering Jamaican-born nurse Mary Seacole , who cared for wounded British soldiers during the Crimean War , the centre is hosted by Epsom and St Helier NHS .
It is run by a partnership including GP practices , hospitals and Surrey County Council , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible for facilities and care .
Clinical Director of NHS Seacole , Dr Hilary Floyd , said the virus had been `` cruel to so many '' but NHS Seacole would provide them with a place of recovery .
Chief executive of Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS , Daniel Elkeles , said : `` It is with great pride that we can provide expert and compassionate care ... in a purpose-designed centre that bears the Seacole name . ''

NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said: "While our country is now emerging from the initial peak of coronavirus, we're now seeing a substantial new need for rehab and aftercare."


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: NI aims to allow small outdoor weddings from June

Outdoors weddings with 10 people present may be allowed in NI from 8 June , the executive has agreed .
Large retailers such as car showrooms and shops in retail parks will also be allowed to reopen , ministers said , having met to review lockdown rules .
First Minister Arlene Foster said the executive would confirm the changes after it meets on 4 June .
Ministers want to ensure the R-number remains below one before lifting restrictions further .
Some measures have already been eased by ministers , as part of a five-step recovery plan .
But Stormont 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in order to monitor the R-number - the average number of people that one coronavirus-infected person will pass the virus on to .
`` It is still below one , but it is not far away from one , '' warned the first minister .
• How do lockdown rules differ in Northern Ireland ?
• What am I allowed to do as the lockdown eases ?
Although Mrs Foster said she understood how important it was for everyone to see as much `` gradual process towards normality as possible '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow people to visit relatives indoors had again been deferred .
Meanwhile , the health department announced there had been two more coronavirus-linked deaths in NI since Wednesday , bringing its total number of deaths to 518 .
A further 377 deaths have been recorded across the UK , taking its total to 37,837 .
In the Republic of Ireland , a further nine deaths were announced on Thursday , bringing the country 's total to 1,639 .
The latest announcement by the executive means Northern Ireland could move into some parts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The decisions agreed by the executive on Thursday , which will provisionally start from 8 June , include : • Small weddings and civil partnership ceremonies permitted outdoors , with no more than 10 people present • Hotels will be able to take advance bookings , for when they can reopen again The announcement will hopefully provide clarity to the public and `` ease the burden '' , said Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill .
Both ministers stressed that shops could only reopen in line with physical distancing measures , and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out further guidance next week .
In England , all non-essential retailers can open from 15 June .
The executive will consider the rest of the step two measures of its Pathway to Recovery , in its next review of lockdown regulations , which must happen by 18 June .
The first and deputy first ministers spoke to Prime Minister Boris Johnson earlier , as part of ongoing talks between the devolved administrations on the UK 's response to the coronavirus pandemic .
A Downing Street spokesperson said Mr Johnson made it clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` next phase '' of tackling the virus , he remains determined to work closely with the devolved administrations .
`` This continues to be a UK-wide approach , even though we may travel at slightly different speeds based on the scientific evidence , '' added the spokesperson .
While shops will not be forced to reopen from 8 June , setting the date would be an indication to them that it was safe to do so , added Ms O'Neill .
However , the executive said it was not yet able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of hotels .
Mrs Foster also addressed the issue of people attending funerals , where only 10 people are currently permitted .
`` We recognise it is not easy when people are grieving , to abide by these rules , '' said the first minister .
But she said police were investigating reports of larger numbers of mourners attending funerals , adding that files would be sent to the Public Prosecution Service .
Ms O'Neill said she understood many people had made personal sacrifices , but stressed that the regulations would not remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Earlier , Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said policing at funerals was made difficult by a lack of specific instructions in the coronavirus regulations .
Mr Todd told Stormont 's justice committee he had not issued guidelines to officers around funerals , `` because there are no guidelines issued from the people who laid the regulations '' .
He was not sure anyone would think police taking a `` hands-on '' approach to enforcement at a funeral would be a good idea , he added .
Why does the R-number matter ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people that someone with Covid-19 is expected to infect , the goal is to keep R below one to prevent the spread of the virus .
Prof Ian Young , the Chief Scientific Adviser , has said there are a number of other factors guiding officials .
For example , the number of daily new cases needs to be low in order for contact tracing , testing and isolating to work properly , he said .
Northern Ireland was first part of the UK to roll out its programme for contact tracing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most recent figures , from 19 to 25 May , state that 212 cases have been contact-traced in Northern Ireland - an average of 30 cases per day .
The tracing is currently being carried out exclusively by phone , with 99 staff deployed to work on the system .
The number of hospital admissions and critical care patients is being closely monitored as well , to ensure the R-number is kept low .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak


bbcuk--2020-05-28--Coronavirus: Two households 'can meet outdoors next week'

Coronavirus restrictions in Wales are likely to be relaxed next week so people from two different households can meet each other outdoors , BBC Wales understands .
They will need to stay in their local area and remain two metres apart .
The changes will not come into force until Monday .
Other parts of the UK have loosened restrictions on meeting others .
Further details are expected from First Minister Mark Drakeford on Friday .
• What do Wales ' lockdown rules mean ?
• Red , amber or green : What next for lockdown ?
Households are expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as away from their homes .
It has been illegal for groups of more than two people to meet since lockdown began in March .
In a Twitter video , Mr Drakeford thanked people for their `` ongoing help and support and for all the sacrifices you have made '' .
`` I know being separated from family and friends is difficult , '' he added .
What are the current rules ?
Since late March people have been told to stay home except for work , exercise and shopping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are more stringent than England 's - people have been told to stay local and not to drive .
Most non-essential retail has been forced to close , alongside pubs and restaurants .
Schools are closed , but some are instead providing childcare for the children of key workers .
What is happening in other parts of the UK ?
England , Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland all have their own lockdown rules .
In England they are set by the UK government , led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by their different governments .
Groups of six people will be able to meet outside in England from Monday .
In Scotland people will be able to meet their friends and family outside from this Friday .
The country 's First Minister , Nicola Sturgeon , said people from two different households will be able to meet , but must keep two metres apart .
They must also remain outdoors , and in groups of no more than eight .
In Northern Ireland groups of six people who do not share a household @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been dropping big hints for some time that his priority in lifting restrictions is to allow people to see friends and family if it can be done safely .
My understanding is the approach will continue to be cautious , with people likely to remain confined to their local area .
The strategy seems to be to make a small change and then keep an eye on the reproduction rate of the virus - the R number .
That means the rules in Wales may continue to differ from those in other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drakeford believes that most Welsh voters support his cautious approach .
Health Minister Vaughan Gething has said that the R number - the rate that coronavirus is spreading - is the biggest factor in determining when lockdown measures can be eased .
If the R number is R2 , it means a sick person is likely to transmit the virus to two other people .
The latest Welsh Government analysis suggests Wales ' R rate remains between 0.7 and 1 , `` but still below 1 '' .
Officials want it to remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an R of 0.8 would lead to 500 additional coronavirus deaths by the start of August and as many 7,000 if R reaches 1.1 .
The Welsh Government has not set dates for when measures in Wales could be lifted , unlike England .
Current plans envisage a traffic light-style system of red , amber and green phases , with more restrictions lifted as they progress .
What has the reaction been ?
Former Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies tweeted it was `` great news for those with family and friends nearby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meant for those who do not , `` particularly in rural communities '' .
Plaid Cymru health spokesman Rhun ap Iorwerth said : `` The people of Wales have generally adhered well to lockdown restrictions , and understand the need to take a cautious approach . ''
But he said the public would benefit from having a `` clearer plan of how restrictions will be managed '' .
Darren Millar , Welsh Conservative spokesman for Covid Recovery , said the longer the lockdown continued , `` the more difficult it will be for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jobs will be lost , and the more harm will be done to the education of our young people '' .
`` With infection rates falling and pressures on the NHS easing , it 's now essential that the Welsh Government begins to safely and sensibly lift restrictions so that families can be reunited , our economy can begin to bounce back , and our young people can get the education they deserve , '' he added .
Earlier on Thursday , Mr Drakeford and Boris Johnson , together with the first ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the phone .
A Downing Street spokesman said the prime minister `` remains determined to work closely with the devolved administrations '' .

Coronavirus: Two households 'can meet outdoors next week' Published 28 May 2020
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, You can now meet up outside with people from another local household, but must keep your distance
Coronavirus restrictions in Wales are likely to be relaxed next week so people from two different households can meet each other outdoors, BBC Wales understands.
They will need to stay in their local area and remain two metres apart.
The changes will not come into force until Monday.
Other parts of the UK have loosened restrictions on meeting others. Further details are expected from First Minister Mark Drakeford on Friday.
Households are expected to be able to meet in gardens, as well as away from their homes. It has been illegal for groups of more than two people to meet since lockdown began in March.
In a Twitter video, Mr Drakeford thanked people for their "ongoing help and support and for all the sacrifices you have made".
"I know being separated from family and friends is difficult," he added.
What are the current rules?
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, People can leave the home to exercise, including cycling
Since late March people have been told to stay home except for work, exercise and shopping for essentials.
Wales' exercise restrictions are more stringent than England's - people have been told to stay local and not to drive.
Most non-essential retail has been forced to close, alongside pubs and restaurants.
Exceptions include supermarkets, garden centres and pharmacies.
Schools are closed, but some are instead providing childcare for the children of key workers.
What is happening in other parts of the UK?
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Different parts of the UK have different rules for lockdown
England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland all have their own lockdown rules.
In England they are set by the UK government, led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson. In the other three countries they are set by their different governments.
Groups of six people will be able to meet outside in England from Monday.
In Scotland people will be able to meet their friends and family outside from this Friday.
The country's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said people from two different households will be able to meet, but must keep two metres apart. They must also remain outdoors, and in groups of no more than eight.
In Northern Ireland groups of six people who do not share a household can meet outdoors.
The first minister has been dropping big hints for some time that his priority in lifting restrictions is to allow people to see friends and family if it can be done safely.
My understanding is the approach will continue to be cautious, with people likely to remain confined to their local area.
The strategy seems to be to make a small change and then keep an eye on the reproduction rate of the virus - the R number.
That means the rules in Wales may continue to differ from those in other nations of the UK, but Mark Drakeford believes that most Welsh voters support his cautious approach.
Health Minister Vaughan Gething has said that the R number - the rate that coronavirus is spreading - is the biggest factor in determining when lockdown measures can be eased.
If the R number is R2, it means a sick person is likely to transmit the virus to two other people.
The latest Welsh Government analysis suggests Wales' R rate remains between 0.7 and 1, "but still below 1". Officials want it to remain below one.
It is believed that an R of 0.8 would lead to 500 additional coronavirus deaths by the start of August and as many 7,000 if R reaches 1.1.
The Welsh Government has not set dates for when measures in Wales could be lifted, unlike England.
Current plans envisage a traffic light-style system of red, amber and green phases, with more restrictions lifted as they progress.
What has the reaction been?
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, The First Minister says that the easing of lockdown has looked at how to meet friends and family again.
Former Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies tweeted it was "great news for those with family and friends nearby".
But he asked what it meant for those who do not, "particularly in rural communities".
Plaid Cymru health spokesman Rhun ap Iorwerth said: "The people of Wales have generally adhered well to lockdown restrictions, and understand the need to take a cautious approach."
But he said the public would benefit from having a "clearer plan of how restrictions will be managed".
'Sensibly lift restrictions'
Darren Millar, Welsh Conservative spokesman for Covid Recovery, said the longer the lockdown continued, "the more difficult it will be for our economy to recover, the more jobs will be lost, and the more harm will be done to the education of our young people".
"With infection rates falling and pressures on the NHS easing, it's now essential that the Welsh Government begins to safely and sensibly lift restrictions so that families can be reunited, our economy can begin to bounce back, and our young people can get the education they deserve," he added.
Earlier on Thursday, Mr Drakeford and Boris Johnson, together with the first ministers from Scotland and Northern Ireland, spoke on the phone.


bbcuk--2020-05-28--West Midlands road crash figures high despite lockdown

Roads being used `` as a racetrack '' while less traffic was on the streets has seen crash numbers remain high during lockdown , a police chief has said .
In the first week of lockdown traffic in the West Midlands and Staffordshire fell by 70 % , but accidents by just 10 % .
West Midlands police commissioner David Jamieson said some drivers see the clearer roads and drive too fast .
Police have been targeting hotspot areas with one motorist clocked doing 142mph on the M6 Toll near Birmingham .
It comes after the BBC reported that speeding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ double the limit during the coronavirus lockdown .
Since the first week of restrictions on people 's movements the number of accidents across the West Midlands and Staffordshire has fallen .
But during April and up until last week the number of crashes was 34 % lower than a year ago , despite traffic being 70 % below 2019 levels for most of that period .
Police and Crime Commissioner Mr Jamieson said : `` What we have noticed is a huge reduction in the number of vehicles on the road but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same rate .
`` There are still casualties going on , there are crashes , and that 's mainly because people perhaps see a clearer road and are going too fast for the circumstances .
`` I would say to people stick to the speed limit , stick within the rules of the road and everybody will be safe . ''
An operation has targeted 20 roads highlighted as hotspots because of previous collision data and following community concerns , including the A4540 in Hockley , Birmingham , and the Black Country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Butler from the force 's road crime prevention team said of 52,000 vehicles passing the speeding stop points between 21 April and 22 May , 842 were found to be committing speeding offences and 127 of the drivers were fined .
He said motorists were receiving roadside advice about risks posed to themselves and others `` and the potential strain they are going to put on the NHS if they are involved in a collision '' .

He said motorists were receiving roadside advice about risks posed to themselves and others "and the potential strain they are going to put on the NHS if they are involved in a collision".


bbcuk--2020-05-29--Coronavirus: Scotland begins to ease out of lockdown

People in Scotland are now able to meet friends and family again as the country begins to ease its lockdown after 66 days .
The new rules mean that people from two households can meet outside so long as they keep at least two metres apart .
Groups of no more than eight should meet at a time , and you should not go into anyone else 's house .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has stressed that people should still stay at home as much as possible .
Scotland has been in lockdown since 23 March , and did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were introduced in England earlier this month .
• Who can I meet and where ?
Your questions answered Ms Sturgeon said there had been a `` sustained and unmistakable '' downward trend in the spread of the virus over a number of weeks , meaning changes could now be made .
But her deputy , John Swinney , warned against people taking things too far , too quickly , as lockdown restrictions are eased .
He told BBC Radio 's Good Morning Scotland programme : `` We have had an extraordinary level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to see that sustained as we move through each of the phases going forward .
`` If we have any relaxation of adherence to those essential characteristics of our response , then we run the risk of refuelling coronavirus . ''
The first phase of the Scottish government 's four-phase `` route map '' for restarting society while attempting to suppress the virus is now in place .
It comes as the UK government announced that groups of six people from different households will be able to meet outside in England from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Wales - although people from two households will be able to meet in groups of any size , so long as they stay local .
Meanwhile , outdoor weddings with 10 people present may be allowed in Northern Ireland from 8 June .
What can you now do in Scotland ?
People can meet residents of one other household at a time - as long as meetings are kept to a maximum of eight people and they are outside in areas like a park or a private garden .
People will also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-contact sports , including golf , tennis , fishing and bowls , and councils are due to reopen their recycling centres from Monday .
Sunbathing in parks and open areas is now allowed , as is travelling locally for recreation - although the Scottish government 's `` strong advice '' is they should not go further than five miles ( 8km ) .
Most outdoor work that has been put on hold can resume , garden centres can reopen and site preparation can begin in the construction industry .
From Monday , teachers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to schools to prepare for re-opening - although most pupils will not return until 11 August .
• Read more about how restrictions have eased • Can I still go for a walk on the golf course ?
What 's happening elsewhere in the UK ?
On Thursday evening , Prime Minister Boris Johnson provided some more details of the changes planned in England - saying that the UK government 's thinking was based on the scientific belief that transmission is far less likely to happen outdoors .
For that reason , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to six people from different households in their gardens from Monday and could even host barbecues , providing they maintained social distancing and took extra care with regular hand-washing when preparing and sharing out food .
• Read more about the differences across the UK • oCoronavirus in Scotland : How many cases are there ?
• Coronavirus in Scotland : Who is dying and where ?
In Wales , people from two households will be allowed to meet outdoors from next week - but they will be asked to `` stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales ' First Minister Mark Drakeford told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme that the rate of infection was falling `` slower than we had hoped '' - so Wales had `` only limited headroom '' to make changes .
In Northern Ireland , `` groups of four to six people who do not share a household can meet outdoors maintaining social distancing '' .
From 8 June , car showrooms and shops in retails parks are expected to be given the green light to begin trading again .
The Scottish government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Phase 1 : Virus not yet contained but cases are falling .
From 28 May you should be able to meet another household outside in small numbers .
Sunbathing is allowed , along with some outdoor activities like golf and fishing .
Garden centres and drive-through takeaways can reopen , some outdoor work can resume , and childminding services can begin .
Phase 2 : Virus controlled .
You can meet larger groups outdoors , and meet another household indoors .
Construction , factories , warehouses , laboratories and small shops can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can reopen , and professional sport can begin again .
Phase 3 : Virus suppressed .
You can meet people from more than one household indoors .
Non-essential offices would reopen , along with gyms , museums , libraries , cinemas , larger shops , pubs , restaurants , hairdressers and dentists .
Live events could take place with restricted numbers and physical distancing restrictions .
Schools should reopen from 11 August .
Phase 4 : Virus no longer a significant threat .
University and college campuses can reopen in full , mass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and public transport is back at full capacity .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
What would you like to know about lockdown easing ?
Send us your questions and a BBC journalist will investigate the most popular .
Use this form to ask your question : If you are reading this page on the BBC News app , you will need to visit the mobile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your question on this topic .

Coronavirus: Scotland begins to ease out of lockdown Published 29 May 2020
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, People from two different households can now meet outside, but must stay two metres apart
People in Scotland are now able to meet friends and family again as the country begins to ease its lockdown after 66 days.
The new rules mean that people from two households can meet outside so long as they keep at least two metres apart.
Groups of no more than eight should meet at a time, and you should not go into anyone else's house.
At her daily media briefing, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon called for "caution" as the new rules take effect.
She also stressed that people should still stay at home as much as possible.
"I expect these changes will bring a real improvement to the quality of our lives. But they are deliberately, and by necessity, cautious changes," she said.
"If too many of us change our behaviour a bit more than they allow, we could see the virus spread quickly again and that would take us back to square one."
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, People were enjoying the sunshine on the beach in Edinburgh
Scotland has been in lockdown since 23 March, and did not make major changes to restrictions when they were introduced in England earlier this month.
But on Friday, the country entered the first phase of the Scottish government's four-phase "route map" for restarting society while attempting to suppress the virus.
The first minister said the consequences of going beyond the new guidelines would not just be measured in terms of lockdown, "but also in terms of lost lives".
"I'm not trying to cramp anyone's fun this weekend," she said.
"I really do want everyone to enjoy these changes, because all of you have more than earned it. But I am asking you to please do so responsibly."
And she added: "If you are in doubt about whether your plans are within the rules or not, err on the side of caution.
"However harsh these rules might feel right now, and I know that they do, abiding by them will never, ever be as harsh as grieving the loss of a loved one."
The changes in Scotland come as the UK government announced that groups of six people from different households will be able to meet outside in England from Monday.
Similar measures have been announced for Wales - although people from two households will be able to meet in groups of any size, so long as they stay local.
Meanwhile, outdoor weddings with 10 people present may be allowed in Northern Ireland from 8 June.
What can you now do in Scotland?
Image source, AFP Image caption, Golf is back at the home of the game in St Andrews
People can meet residents of one other household at a time - as long as meetings are kept to a maximum of eight people and they are outside in areas like a park or a private garden.
People will also be able to take part in some non-contact sports, including golf, tennis, fishing and bowls, and councils are due to reopen their recycling centres from Monday.
Sunbathing in parks and open areas is now allowed, as is travelling locally for recreation - although the Scottish government's "strong advice" is they should not go further than five miles (8km).
Most outdoor work that has been put on hold can resume, garden centres can reopen and site preparation can begin in the construction industry.
From Monday, teachers and other staff will be able to return to schools to prepare for re-opening - although most pupils will not return until 11 August.
What's happening elsewhere in the UK?
Image source, AFP Image caption, Dog walkers on East Sands Beach in St Andrews
On Thursday evening, Prime Minister Boris Johnson provided some more details of the changes planned in England - saying that the UK government's thinking was based on the scientific belief that transmission is far less likely to happen outdoors.
For that reason, he said people could hold gatherings of up to six people from different households in their gardens from Monday and could even host barbecues, providing they maintained social distancing and took extra care with regular hand-washing when preparing and sharing out food.
In Wales, people from two households will be allowed to meet outdoors from next week - but they will be asked to "stay local" when planning such meetings.
Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the rate of infection was falling "slower than we had hoped" - so Wales had "only limited headroom" to make changes.
In Northern Ireland, "groups of four to six people who do not share a household can meet outdoors maintaining social distancing".
From 8 June, car showrooms and shops in retails parks are expected to be given the green light to begin trading again.
The route map for easing lockdown
Image source, Getty Images
The Scottish government has identified four phases for easing the restrictions:
Phase 1: Virus not yet contained but cases are falling. From 28 May you should be able to meet another household outside in small numbers. Sunbathing is allowed, along with some outdoor activities like golf and fishing. Garden centres and drive-through takeaways can reopen, some outdoor work can resume, and childminding services can begin.
Phase 2: Virus controlled. You can meet larger groups outdoors, and meet another household indoors. Construction, factories, warehouses, laboratories and small shops can resume work. Playgrounds and sports courts can reopen, and professional sport can begin again.
Phase 3: Virus suppressed. You can meet people from more than one household indoors. Non-essential offices would reopen, along with gyms, museums, libraries, cinemas, larger shops, pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and dentists. Live events could take place with restricted numbers and physical distancing restrictions. Schools should reopen from 11 August.
Phase 4: Virus no longer a significant threat. University and college campuses can reopen in full, mass gatherings are allowed. All workplaces open and public transport is back at full capacity.
Ms Sturgeon also announced an extra £20m to help the manufacturing industry in Scotland.
She said the funding for Scotland's new National Manufacturing Institute would bring the government's total investment to £75m.
The first minister also said 12 new projects would receive £15.3m of funding to help boost small and medium-sized businesses.
She added that most of the sector would have to remain closed during phase one of easing the lockdown, but that companies would be allowed to prepare for a return to business in phase two.
What would you like to know about lockdown easing? Send us your questions and a BBC journalist will investigate the most popular.
Use this form to ask your question:


bbcuk--2020-05-29--Coronavirus: Rishi Sunak urged by MPs to extend self-employed help

MPs have urged Chancellor Rishi Sunak to extend support for the self-employed during the coronavirus pandemic .
The government had given self-employed workers who qualify a grant of 80 % of their average profits , up to £2,500 , for three months .
A similar scheme for furloughed workers has been extended to October , but the self-employed scheme ends this weekend .
A cross-party group of 113 MPs have signed a letter sent by Labour 's Siobhain McDonagh to Mr Sunak .
“ This scheme is a lifeline for millions of locked-down workers right across the country , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already significant holes in the support , but removing what is already in place would pull the safety net from under the feet of millions of self-employed workers .
`` How can it be right for the furloughed scheme to continue but this scheme to not ?
” • Why payday is different during the crisis • 'How is £94 a week going to pay anyone 's bills ?
’ ' • What does it mean if I 've been furloughed ?
While the letter congratulates the chancellor on the programme , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end government support for the self-employed because many have seen their work dry up .
Earlier in May , the chancellor said the scheme was “ under review ” but , since then , he has not given any indication of its future .
On Thursday , the prime minister also said extending the scheme was `` under review ” .
When lockdown began , the show at the Royal Shakespeare Company that Yshani Perinpanayagam was musical director for was cancelled - and her work dried up .
She still has some composing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not be safe '' if the self-employment scheme ends .
Ms Perinpanayagam said she did not know how she is going to feed herself .
Her current household expenses have been covered by savings , she said .
She worries that when the rest of the UK returns to normal life but still can not buy tickets to the theatre , the gap between self-employed artists and the rest of society will widen .
“ If people are missing mortgage payments , there is already an understanding that they need help without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the self-employed will really have to justify why we can ’ t pay our bills if the government is not taking a stance that we are worthy of help , '' she said .
So far , 2.3 million self-employed , including Ms Perinpanayagam .
have signed up to grants totalling £6.8bn .
She worries that despite efforts from creative industries to be more inclusive of people from less wealthy backgrounds , a lack of support from the government will make it impossible for artists to survive if they do not come from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people I know have been getting out and delivering pizzas , instead [ of their usual work ] .
There is this feeling that everyone is abandoning ship because of a lack of trust in the government to help them , '' says Ms Perinpanayagam .
The Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed ( IPSE ) has also sent a letter to the chancellor calling on him to extend the support scheme .
Its letter also suggests he look again at those who did not qualify for the scheme in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , those who took maternity leave in the last three years and those with limited companies .
IPSE estimates that 1.6 million sole traders and limited company directors have been left out of the self employment scheme , so far .
The letter is co-signed by creative unions and associations including the Creative Industries Federation , Bectu and Equity .
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• WILL I GET PAID IF I CA N'T WORK ?
The rules on sick pay , wages and time off • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?

“If people are missing mortgage payments, there is already an understanding that they need help without them having to prove anything. But the self-employed will really have to justify why we can’t pay our bills if the government is not taking a stance that we are worthy of help," she said.


bbcuk--2020-05-29--FA Cup: New dates announced after Premier League set to return

The FA Cup quarter-finals have been rescheduled for the weekend of 27-28 June with the final set to take place @ @ @ @ @ .
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said the dates are `` dependent on all safety @ @ @ @ @ venues and kick-off times yet to be confirmed .
The semi-finals have been rescheduled for @ @ @ @ @ the Premier League said it is set to return on 17 June with the hope @ @ @ @ @ games .
• Watch all of the latest FA Cup highlights and reaction here Bullingham @ @ @ @ @ and wellbeing of players , staff and supporters remains our priority .
`` The competition @ @ @ @ @ of the English football calendar for nearly 150 years , and we would like to @ @ @ @ @ and clubs for their support in scheduling the remaining matches during this unprecedented time .
@ @ @ @ @ quarter-finals draw took place on 9 March .

Last updated on .From the section FA Cup
The FA Cup quarter-finals have been rescheduled for the weekend of 27-28 June with the final set to take place on Saturday, 1 August.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said the dates are "dependent on all safety measures being met" with venues and kick-off times yet to be confirmed.
The semi-finals have been rescheduled for 18-19 July.
On Thursday the Premier League said it is set to return on 17 June with the hope of playing all 92 remaining games.
Bullingham added: "The health and wellbeing of players, staff and supporters remains our priority.
"The competition has been an integral part of the English football calendar for nearly 150 years, and we would like to thank the Premier League executive and clubs for their support in scheduling the remaining matches during this unprecedented time."
The Emirates FA Cup quarter-finals draw took place on 9 March.


bbcuk--2020-05-29--Coronavirus: New mortgage holiday should affect credit rating, says Nationwide boss

A borrower 's credit rating should be marked if they take a further mortgage holiday , the Nationwide has said .
Lenders look at somebody 's credit rating when deciding whether to agree to a fresh loan or contract and the interest rate they will charge .
Joe Garner , chief executive of the Nationwide Building Society , said an extension to the mortgage break may signal a borrower was `` struggling '' .
He made the comment as the UK 's largest mutual announced a plunge in profits .
Its statutory pre-tax profit fell to £466m in the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previous year .
The building society said it had already faced pressure on its profits before it took a £101m hit as a direct result of coronavirus .
• Mortgage payment holiday extended for further three months Mortgage holidays started in March , allowing people to defer payments without affecting their credit rating .
That respite from payments would end for the first applicants in June , but the Treasury and regulators have said that those who need to will be permitted to defer for another three months .
No decision has yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reflected on a credit reference used by other lenders .
Mr Garner said that 280,000 of its members had taken a payment break , the vast majority of which were mortgage holders .
`` Probably the very first people to apply would be those who are really on top of their financial position and we know there are a lot of people who have taken them as a precaution , and will go back to paying in full at the first opportunity , '' he said .
For those who needed a further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who have continued to be furloughed , on sick pay , or who are self-employed - Mr Garner suggested there should be some kind of temporary notice on their credit rating until mortgage payments returned to normal .
This should not be a `` big black mark '' , he said , but `` a middle way '' that would alert lenders with a temporary mark , but not restrict people 's ability to remortgage .
`` If someone is struggling , and if there is no sign on their credit rating , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and further loans , which would not be in their interest , '' he told the BBC .
The rules over whether credit ratings would be immune from further mortgage holidays have yet to be finalised by regulators .
Credit ratings are used widely to inform lenders ' decisions on financial products - from granting personal loans to allowing access to mobile phone contracts .
The UK banking sector has approved 1.8 million mortgage holidays during the crisis , according to figures from trade body UK Finance .
There have also been 877,800 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % since the start of the month , and 608,000 payment holidays on personal loans , up 30 % over the same period .
However , in some circumstances , the build-up of interest could risk taking people over a limit which itself would leave a mark on their credit reference .
Millions of people have seen the first £500 of an arranged overdraft made interest-free for three months .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• RECOVERY @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get better ?

That respite from payments would end for the first applicants in June, but the Treasury and regulators have said that those who need to will be permitted to defer for another three months. No decision has yet been made on whether this will be reflected on a credit reference used by other lenders.


bbcuk--2020-05-29--UK could offer 'path to citizenship' for Hong Kong's British passport holders

The UK could offer British National ( Overseas ) passport holders in Hong Kong a path to UK citizenship if China does not suspend plans for a security law in the territory , UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab says .
It comes after China 's parliament backed proposal that would make it a crime to undermine Beijing 's authority .
There are fears the legislation could end Hong Kong 's unique status .
China said it reserved the right to take `` countermeasures '' against the UK .
Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said the UK and China had agreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) - or BNO - passport should not enjoy UK residency .
`` All such BNO passport holders are Chinese nationals and if the UK insists on changing this practice it will not only violate its own stance but also international law , '' he added .
There are 300,000 BNO passport holders in Hong Kong who have the right to visit the UK for up to six months without a visa .
• China 's new law : Why is Hong Kong worried ?
Mr Raab 's statement came after the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint condemnation of Beijing 's plan , saying imposing the security law would undermine the `` one country , two systems '' framework agreed before Hong Kong was handed over from British to Chinese rule in 1997 .
The framework guaranteed Hong Kong some autonomy and afforded rights and freedoms that do not exist in mainland China .
China has rejected foreign criticism of the proposed law , which could be in force as early as the end of June .
Li Zhanshu , chairman of the parliamentary committee that will now draft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in line with the fundamental interests of all Chinese people , including Hong Kong compatriots '' .
What did Raab say ?
British National ( Overseas ) passports were issued to people in Hong Kong by the UK before the transfer of the territory to Chinese sovereignty in 1997 .
Announcing the possible change in policy , Mr Raab said the six-month limit on stays in the UK for BNO holders would be scrapped .
`` If China continues down this path and implements this national security legislation , we will remove that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passport holders to come to the UK and to apply to work and study for extendable periods of 12 months and that will itself provide a pathway to future citizenship , '' he said .
The BBC 's diplomatic correspondent James Landale says that in Beijing might not mind if some pro-democracy campaigners escape to the UK , but the flight of talented wealth creators would be of concern .
Some MPs want the UK to go further and offer automatic citizenship .
Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat , chairman of the foreign affairs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have an automatic right to live and work in the UK .
The government has in the past rejected calls to give BNO holders in Hong Kong full citizenship .
Last year more than 100,000 people in Hong Kong signed a petition calling for full rights .
The government responded by saying that only UK citizens and certain Commonwealth citizens had the right of abode in the UK and cited a 2007 review which said giving BNO holders full citizenship would be a breach of the agreement under which the UK handed Hong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1972 the UK offered asylum to some 30,000 Ugandan Asians with British Overseas passports after the then-military ruler Idi Amin ordered about 60,000 Asians to leave .
At the time some MPs said India should take responsibility for the refugees , but Prime Minister Edward Heath said the UK had a duty to accept them .
What other reaction has there been ?
Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy earlier said the UK had to be more robust with Beijing .
Referring to the security law , she told the BBC : `` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempts by China to start to erode the joint declaration which Britain co-signed with the Chinese government when we handed over Hong Kong , and protected its special status . ''
`` We want to see the UK government really step up now , '' she said .
Former Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the UK should bring together a coalition of countries to avoid a tragedy in the territory .
He told the BBC : `` This is definitely the most dangerous period there has ever been in terms of that agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Britain does have a responsibility now to pull together that international coalition and to do what we can to protect the people of Hong Kong . ''
On Thursday Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's official spokesman told a Westminster briefing : `` We are deeply concerned about China 's legislation related to national security in Hong Kong .
`` We have been very clear that the security legislation risks undermining the principle of one country , two systems .
`` We are in close contact with our international partners on this and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ Mike ] Pompeo last night . ''
He added : `` The steps taken by the Chinese government place the Joint Declaration under direct threat and do undermine Hong Kong 's high degree of autonomy . ''
On Wednesday , Mr Pompeo said developments in Hong Kong meant it could no longer be considered to have `` a high degree of autonomy '' from mainland China .
This could lead to Hong Kong being treated the same as mainland China under US law , which would have major implications for its trade @ @ @

"If China continues down this path and implements this national security legislation, we will remove that six month limit and allow those BNO passport holders to come to the UK and to apply to work and study for extendable periods of 12 months and that will itself provide a pathway to future citizenship," he said.


bbcuk--2020-05-29--Coronavirus: National Trust to reopen gardens and parks

The National Trust is to reopen some gardens and parklands in England and Northern Ireland from 3 June .
Around 29 sites are due to open to those with pre-booked tickets , with more to follow in the coming weeks .
Only around a third of the usual number of visitors will be permitted in order to maintain social distancing .
It comes after the PM announced a further easing of lockdown measures in England , while Northern Ireland has moved to reopen outdoor spaces .
All properties and car parks in Wales will remain closed , however , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Trust parks and gardens to reopen in Northern Ireland Belton House in Lincolnshire , Cliveden in Buckinghamshire and Mottisfont in Hampshire are among the sites where visits to outdoor spaces can now be booked in advance .
However , facilities at its sites - including houses , shops , holiday cottages , and campsites - will all remain closed .
The Trust said most coastal and countryside car parks are already open , but some busier ones may need to be closed or pre-booked .
Hilary McGrady , the Trust 's director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopen gardens and parks `` wherever possible '' .
But she cautioned that `` things will be very different , particularly at first '' .
The Royal Horticultural Society ( RHS ) is also reopening its four gardens around England with a pre-booked ticketing system .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?

The Trust said most coastal and countryside car parks are already open, but some busier ones may need to be closed or pre-booked.