bbcuk--2020-03-30--Coronavirus: Clothing warehouse 'putting lives at risk'

Employees at an online clothing warehouse have accused the company of `` putting people 's lives at risk '' through a lack of social distancing .
Several workers at Clipper Logistics in Ollerton , Nottinghamshire , said warehouse staff were `` crammed into corridors '' and given no hand sanitiser .
It comes as people have been told to keep at least 2m ( 6ft 6in ) apart to help curb the spread of coronavirus .
Staff have also said their jobs should be classed as `` non-essential '' .
Carly Maddock had worked at Clipper for three years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retailers , including M & S and River Island .
She walked out on Wednesday - along with two other colleagues - over the lack of action taken from management .
The mother-of-three said : `` It 's not good , the corridors are tiny , there 's been no hand sanitiser for weeks apart from in the offices .
`` We just thought that for everybody 's safety they 'd just shut it down because we 're non-essential , but they did n't . ''
She said when she questioned the lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warehouse , a manager told her `` at this time all I care is about getting refunds processed '' .
`` When I voiced my opinions and said I felt unsafe one manager said 'Just think of how many people die of cancer every year ' . ''
Ms Maddock said anyone who did not turn up to work would either be sacked or go unpaid .
Non-essential shops , including clothing outlets and electronic stores , were ordered to close immediately on 23 March for three weeks , when the measures were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 111 call staff 'terrified to go to work' • Coronavirus information : What should I do ?
One member of staff , who did not want to be named , said hundreds of people continued to sign in using a fingerprint scanner .
He said : `` At the workplace there 's no social distancing .
`` I live with my mum who 's got an underlying health condition and is at risk , it is really worrying me .
`` I do think they 're putting people 's lives at risk .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the hallway , all having to press the same security buttons , having to clock out with the same finger scanners .
`` I 've seen people sneezing into their hands and wiping it on their trousers . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak The Health and Safety Executive said although it had no authority to enforce public health measures , `` any concerns about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be a concern to us '' .
A spokeswoman for Clipper said circumstances surrounding coronavirus were `` evolving on a daily basis '' and it was `` continuing to monitor and adhere to all government advice '' .
She said the company had been `` inundated with requests '' from customers and it was working to support `` a wider network of essential services including major food retailers '' .
An M & S spokesperson said the company `` fully supports the government 's efforts to protect our NHS and save lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to return non-essential items to stores , which would `` usually be processed at Clipper '' .
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"I do think they're putting people's lives at risk. There's easily 100 to 200 people in the hallway, all having to press the same security buttons, having to clock out with the same finger scanners.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: 13-year-old boy dies, says London hospital trust

A 13-year-old boy who tested positive for coronavirus has died , a London hospital trust has said .
Ismail Mohamed Abdulwahab , from Brixton in south London , died in King 's College Hospital early on Monday .
He is thought to be the youngest person to have died with the virus in the UK .
A spokesman for the trust said the boy 's death had been referred to the coroner , but gave no further details .
As of 17:00 BST on Monday , the number of UK deaths was 1,789 .
The latest figures saw a daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far .
Ismail 's family said they were `` beyond devastated '' by his death , in a statement released by a family friend .
They said he had no apparent underlying health conditions and tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday , a day after he was admitted to hospital .
BBC health correspondent Nick Triggle said it was rare for teenagers to become seriously ill after being infected with coronavirus .
`` Just 0.3 % of those who show symptoms require hospital care and 0.006 % die - in other words @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among this age group will not survive , '' he said .
`` But it does happen , as this distressing case shows . ''
Ismail 's family said he was admitted to the hospital in south London after he had begun showing symptoms and having difficulties breathing .
`` He was put on a ventilator and then put into an induced coma but sadly died yesterday [ Monday ] morning , '' they said .
`` To our knowledge he had no underlying health conditions .
We are beyond devastated . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ College , in south-west London , where Ismail 's sister works as a teacher , has set up a fundraiser to raise money for the funeral costs .
A statement on the page said Ismail died `` without any family members close by due to the highly infectious nature of Covid-19 '' .
Analysis : What is the risk to young people ?
Research suggests that children and teenagers are much less likely to die from Covid-19 than adults .
Symptoms tend to be more mild in children , in contrast to flu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of complications .
Scientists have yet to determine why this might be .
It is possible that children 's bodies are more able to cope with the virus .
Children 's immune systems are immature and often tend to overreact to infections .
But the coronavirus appears not to stimulate their immune systems in this way .
One theory is that children might be better off because they have not been exposed to other , milder , types of coronavirus .
Adults have , and have developed antibodies as a result , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Covid-19 they might do the body more harm than good .
All this does not mean that young people - particularly those with underlying health conditions - are completely safe from the effects of Covid-19 , as this case tragically shows .
Dr Nathalie MacDermott , clinical lecturer at King 's College London , said Ismail 's death `` highlights the importance of us all taking the precautions we can to reduce the spread of infection in the UK and worldwide '' .
She added : `` It is important that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to further understand the exact cause of death .
`` While chronic underlying medical conditions are known to result in worse outcomes in Covid-19 infection , we have heard of cases of younger individuals with no known medical problems succumbing to the disease .
`` It is essential that we undertake research to determine why a proportion of deaths occur outside of the groups expected to succumb to infection , as it may indicate an underlying genetic susceptibility of how the immune system interacts with the virus . ''
Dr Vanessa Sancho-Shimizu , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virology at Imperial College London , said the case highlighted that `` however exceedingly rare this may be , statistics means nothing when it affects those close to you , and that there is no room for complacency in this pandemic '' .
Dr Simon Clarke , an associate professor in cellular microbiology at the University of Reading , said : `` Any premature death is tragic news , but the death of any child is particularly sad - and the first death of a child in the UK following a positive test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The lesson from countries such as China is that while the old are much more likely to die from coronavirus infection , the young are certainly not immune from it .
`` Children can catch the virus , and while they are more likely to have mild symptoms , they can still pass it on to others who are more vulnerable .
In rare cases , they can also get seriously ill , or die .
`` This is a reminder that we must take the advice of health officials seriously to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep well away from all other people .
`` The message so far has seemed to be that by following the guidance , you might save the life of a cherished parent or grandparent .
`` This case could yet remind us that staying home could also save the life of a cherished child or grandchild too . ''
Meanwhile , Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove described the latest rise in UK deaths as `` deeply shocking '' during the government 's daily briefing .
`` Now is absolutely not the time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relaxation or slackening '' of lockdown measures , he said .

"Children can catch the virus, and while they are more likely to have mild symptoms, they can still pass it on to others who are more vulnerable. In rare cases, they can also get seriously ill, or die.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: UK must go 'further, faster' to increase testing capacity

The UK must go `` further , faster '' to ramp up its testing capacity for coronavirus , Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has said .
The government has set a target of carrying out 25,000 tests a day - but that will not be met until the end of April .
Mr Gove said there was a global shortage of the chemicals needed to test patients .
More than 8,000 patients were tested on Monday .
Speaking at the government 's daily coronavirus briefing , Mr Gove said : `` More NHS staff are returning to the front line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help those self-isolating come back , and to protect those working so hard in our hospitals and in social care .
`` But while the rate of testing is increasing , we must go further , faster . ''
He added that a `` critical constraint '' on the ability to increase testing capacity was the availability of the chemicals needed to test patients .
`` We are working with companies worldwide to ensure that we get the material we need to increase tests of all kinds , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak His comments come amid mounting criticism about the inability of some health staff to get tests .
The Royal College of Physicians has said as many as a quarter of doctors are off work because they are having to self-isolate - either because they are showing symptoms or a member of their household is .
A fifth of nurses have been affected , the Royal College of Nursing said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff began being tested over the weekend , but only in low numbers .
• How to understand the coronavirus death toll • Is the NHS ready for the surge in coronavirus cases ?
BMA chairman Dr Chaand Nagpaul said : `` It 's been well over two weeks since the government said it was going to roll out priority testing for healthcare staff .
`` But many doctors still have no idea about where or how they can get tested . ''
Meanwhile , an A & E nurse who did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Staff are not being tested , and protective clothing is limited .
`` It does feel unnerving .
Our team is very strong at work and our matron has said no staff are to go near patients if we do n't have the protective clothing .
`` The protective clothing comes in daily but we are going through it so fast that it becomes limited by the end of the day . ''
Later in the briefing , Mr Gove said the UK was working to secure more ventilators , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ orders at home .
The first `` of thousands '' of new ventilator devices would roll off the production line this weekend and be delivered to the NHS next week , he said .
It comes as the biggest daily increase in the number of people who have died with coronavirus in the UK - 381 - was reported .
As of 17:00 BST on Monday , the total number of UK deaths linked to the virus was 1,789 .
But NHS England medical director Prof Stephen Powis said there were still some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was a `` bit of a plateau '' in the number of new cases , despite the total rising to more than 25,000 cases overall .
Earlier in the epidemic the number of cases was doubling every three days , but the rate of increase is lower than that now .
These are largely just the cases diagnosed in hospital as people with mild illnesses in the community are not being tested .
But Prof Powis added : `` It 's really important not to read too much into this .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not out of the woods , we 're very much in the woods .
`` The number of infections is not rising as rapidly as it once was .
`` So green shoots , but only green shoots and we must not be complacent and we must not take our foot off the pedal . ''
He also said there was still `` headroom '' in the NHS to treat patients despite the rising number of cases .
Some 10,767 people are currently in hospital in England , but Prof Powis said even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most cases at 3,915 , there were still beds free thanks to the increase in intensive care capacity .
The number of beds have been doubled to 1,400 with more due to open later this week when NHS Nightingale - the field hospital at the Excel Centre in east London - starts accepting patients .
Elsewhere in England , the Midlands is also starting to see a rising number of admissions with 1,918 currently in hospital , Prof Powis said .
Mr Gove described the sharp rise in the latest reported UK deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' but he could not say exactly when the peak of the epidemic would come .
`` There 's not a fixed date like Easter when you know that the peak will come , it depends on the actions of all of us , '' he said .
He added that `` now is absolutely not the time for people to imagine there can be any relaxation or slackening '' of lockdown measures .
• Anti-malarial drugs are among those being tested in UK clinical trials in a bid to find medicines to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A coronavirus app that alerts people if they have recently been in contact with someone testing positive for the virus `` could play a critical role '' in limiting lockdown • Pregnant prisoners could be granted temporary release from prison `` within days '' to protect them and their unborn children from the virus • The transaction limit for contactless card payments will increase from £30 to £45 per transaction from Wednesday • British Airways said it would suspend its schedule at London Gatwick • The UK mortgage market went into lockdown as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The government 's cabinet group of senior ministers met entirely through video conference technology for the first time as Prime Minister Boris Johnson continued self-isolation • Grocery sales for the month of March beat all previous UK records as shoppers stocked up

The Royal College of Physicians has said as many as a quarter of doctors are off work because they are having to self-isolate - either because they are showing symptoms or a member of their household is.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Banks bow to pressure and axe shareholder payments

Some of the UK 's biggest banks have agreed to scrap dividend payments and hold onto the cash , which may be needed during the coronavirus crisis .
The Bank of England welcomed the decision to suspend the payments to shareholders and urged the banks not to pay bonuses to senior staff either .
The banks , which include NatWest , Santander and Barclays , were due to pay out billions to shareholders .
But in recent days they have come under pressure to hold onto the money .
The deputy governor of the Bank of England , Sam Woods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to suspend dividend payments .
He asked them to confirm their decision by Tuesday evening .
In a statement , the Prudential Regulation Authority , which is part of the Bank of England , said : `` Although the decisions taken today will result in shareholders not receiving dividends , they are a sensible precautionary step given the unique role that banks need to play in supporting the wider economy through a period of economic disruption . ''
Between them , Lloyds , Royal Bank of Scotland , Barclays , HSBC and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a total of £15.6bn to shareholders , according to analysis from investment firm AJ Bell .
But they will now retain those funds and not pay out any money to shareholders until at least the end of the year , which the Bank of England said `` should help the banks support the economy through 2020 '' .
However , the Bank said it did not expect the cash to be needed , noting that the banks had more than enough money in reserve to deal with both a global recession and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a significant move from the commercial banks .
They decided not to pay shareholders several billion pounds worth of dividends after receiving a firmly-worded letter from the Bank of England , which wants the banks to hold on to the money to support lending in the economy .
And , with some of the payments due to be made in just days , the impact will be felt almost immediately by some shareholders .
The Bank of England 's watchdog , the Prudential Regulation Authority , also made clear that it does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banks to pay cash bonuses either , although that is yet to be agreed .
The logic here is to preserve cash for where it is needed , but the regulator has also been making the point that this crisis is a moment of potential redemption for the sector .
The banks have the opportunity to distance themselves from the financial crisis , which they created , to become the economic saviours of the coronavirus crisis .
But that depends on them preserving cashflow , overdrafts and funding lines to businesses that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For example , the chancellor 's freelance worker scheme will result in substantial cash sums being deposited in bank accounts , but not until June , and much depends on banks keeping workers financially afloat until then .
The cancellation of dividends also piles on the pressure for other sectors that have received money for furloughing workers - or even more direct government backing - to also consider scrapping their dividend payouts .
`` These are difficult decisions , not least in terms of the immediate impact they will have on shareholders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The bank has a strong capital base , but we think it is right and prudent , for the many businesses and people that we support , to take these steps now , and ensure that Barclays is well placed to continue doing what we can to help through this crisis . ''

The logic here is to preserve cash for where it is needed, but the regulator has also been making the point that this crisis is a moment of potential redemption for the sector. The banks have the opportunity to distance themselves from the financial crisis, which they created, to become the economic saviours of the coronavirus crisis. But that depends on them preserving cashflow, overdrafts and funding lines to businesses that will become viable again once the pandemic passes.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Milton Keynes ice rink to be temporary mortuary

Work has begun to turn an ice rink into a temporary mortuary that would be capable of holding hundreds of bodies .
Planet Ice in Milton Keynes may be needed if funeral directors are unable to cope with the rise in coronavirus-related deaths .
In Madrid a major ice rink , the Palacio de Hielo ( Ice Palace ) , is in use as a temporary mortuary .
A Milton Keynes Council spokesman said : `` We 're working with the owners to ready the rink as a precaution . ''
He said ice rinks could be adapted into mortuaries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Council leader Peter Marland said the authority was keeping the 2,800 capacity ice rink open to ensure the venue remains at the correct temperature .
He said work to convert the rink would take `` a matter of days '' and the venue could hold bodies `` in the hundreds '' .
`` We have been planning for a while around capacity as we picked up quite early that it could be an issue for us , '' he said .
`` We only have one crematorium and the next nearest one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worst is to happen we wanted to make sure that that person and their family had as much dignity as possible . ''
Council workmen have already closed off roads and footpaths around the building , which is in the Leisure Plaza in central Milton Keynes .
Work to turn part of Birmingham Airport into a mortuary able to store at least 1,500 bodies has begun .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself • AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How to look after your mental health

"We have been planning for a while around capacity as we picked up quite early that it could be an issue for us," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Aldi, Morrisons, Waitrose and Asda lift some restrictions

Aldi , Morrisons , Waitrose and Asda are easing restrictions on some of their products which were imposed in the wake of stockpiling earlier this month .
All the major supermarkets restricted customers to buying fixed numbers of individual items to keep shelves full .
Aldi is now scrapping limits completely on all but a few items , while Morrisons , Waitrose and Asda have also removed some limits and changed others .
Meanwhile , grocery sales in the UK were at record levels in March .
Aldi customers will be able to buy as many as they want of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they will only be allowed to purchase four of some - including hand wash and soap , toilet roll , certain canned goods and alcohol - and two of antibacterial hand gel , UHT milk and baby formula .
Morrisons is upping the limits on some items from three to four per customer and removing some altogether to make it easier for people to donate to food banks .
The supermarket will create local drop-off points for customers to donate products to others and will distribute £10m of food to food banks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on all fresh food , so meat , fish , poultry and other fresh goods can now be purchased freely along with fruit and vegetables .
Alcohol and Easter confectionery are also not subject to limits , although restrictions do remain on certain items .
Asda is removing limits on fruit and vegetables and chilled products .
Tesco , Sainsbury 's and Co-op are not changing their policies on restrictions at the moment .
Meanwhile , figures from consumer analysts Kantar showed huge increases in shopping in the UK this month .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when 88 % of households visited a food store , adding up to 42 million extra trips across four days .
In the last four weeks , year-on-year supermarket sales grew by 20.6 % .
Kantar 's Fraser McKevitt said £10.8bn sales in the past four weeks were `` even higher than levels seen at Christmas '' .
The figures have mainly risen because of people making extra shopping trips , rather than spending more on each visit .
The average household spent an extra £62.92 during the past four weeks , equivalent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groceries .
London had the biggest increase , with grocery spending up by 26 % during the month .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • UK LATEST : What 's the UK 's plan and what could happen next ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Mr McKevitt added : `` It 's inevitable that shoppers will add extra items to their baskets when faced with restrictions on their movement .
`` With restaurants and cafes now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meals on the go any longer and an extra 503 million meals , mainly lunches and snacks , will be prepared and eaten at home every week for the foreseeable future . ''
Online grocery spending was 13 % higher than in the same period last year .
The average online basket cost £81.88 , which was £6 more than in March 2019 , while 14.6 % of households received an online delivery - up from 13.8 % at the same time last year .
Sales of alcohol rose by 22 % - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a rise in spending for families with children over the age of 16 , which is likely to be down to the youngsters returning early from college or university .
Those families spent £508 on average on groceries in March , £88.13 more than they did in the same month last year .
Supermarket spending data from analysts Nielsen showed that in the week ending 21 March , many shoppers had filled their cupboards and instead were deciding to stock up the freezer .
Its figures showed that sales of frozen food that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same period last year .
Nielsen 's Mike Watkins said there had been a `` seismic shift in overall shopping patterns '' .
He added : `` Unlike stores , there is a finite capacity for online grocery shopping , due to warehouse capacity and available delivery slots , and this will have limited the growth of online sales . ''
Online deliveries have been a sticking point for many people , who have found themselves unable to book slots and follow Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's request to use online deliveries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which last week limited online orders to 80 items only , has now expanded its home delivery and click and collect services to about 780,000 slots this week - up from 660,000 two weeks ago .
It has plans to add another 100,000 slots in the coming weeks .
It has also recruited more than 7,500 staff and added more than 200 new vans to its fleet .
Asda is also recruiting more delivery drivers , while Sainsbury 's has introduced priority slots for elderly and vulnerable customers and is contacting eligible customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3,500 new jobs to help expand its online delivery service , while Waitrose says it will set aside at least a quarter of its delivery slots to elderly or vulnerable people and is working to identify eligible customers .

There was also a rise in spending for families with children over the age of 16, which is likely to be down to the youngsters returning early from college or university. Those families spent £508 on average on groceries in March, £88.13 more than they did in the same month last year.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Ocado buys 100,000 test kits for staff

Online supermarket Ocado has bought 100,000 coronavirus test kits for its delivery staff .
The internet grocery firm has spent @ @ @ @ @ has received 40,000 so far .
It would not say how many of its 30,000 @ @ @ @ @ added it could share kits with the NHS .
Harrow West MP , Gareth Thomas @ @ @ @ @ government to explain why front line medics are still awaiting tests .
The government says @ @ @ @ @ , but has only been administering them to about 7,000 people a day .
• @ @ @ @ @ more people ?
Labour MP Mr Thomas said it `` beggars belief '' that routine @ @ @ @ @ to NHS staff .
Ocado said it had purchased the tests to ensure the safety @ @ @ @ @ It declined to say where it bought them from , how long it took to @ @ @ @ @ or to comment on the amount purchased .
The company said demand for its services @ @ @ @ @ average .
The government has been contacted for further comment .

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bbcuk--2020-03-31--Number of Scottish coronavirus deaths reaches 60

A further 13 people with coronavirus have died in Scotland , bringing the total to 60 .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said a total of 1,993 people had now tested positive for the virus , up from 1,563 on Monday .
However , 108 of these were from a laboratory which had been unable to submit data over the weekend .
Ms Sturgeon said this partially explained the big increase in the number of positive tests .
But she stressed that the actual number of cases of Covid-19 in Scotland is likely to be far higher than the figures show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus in hospital intensive care units - an increase of 27 from Monday .
• Coronavirus in Scotland : How many cases are there ?
Ms Sturgeon also said that about 6 % of NHS staff in Scotland were currently off work because they had coronavirus symptoms or were self-isolating .
She said this figure was `` relatively low '' and was expected to increase , but said testing of key workers was now being rolled out and would help `` get people back to work as quickly as possible '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ second week , Ms Sturgeon urged people to continue to stick to the social distancing rules , adding : `` By following this advice you are helping us save lives . ''
The number of deaths announced by the government each day is currently based on those who have died in hospital after having laboratory-confirmed cases of coronavirus .
The figure will soon also include those who died outside of hospital and who were `` presumed '' by a doctor to have had the virus , even if they were not tested .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Calderwood , said it was unlikely there had been a `` significant '' underestimate in the number of deaths so far .
This is because there are not widespread examples of people becoming very unwell without going to hospital .
Ms Calderwood said the proportion of tests that were giving positive results for coronavirus was `` increasing day by day '' .
She said the only group that was not seeing a sustained increase in the number of confirmed cases was those under the age of 15 , which she said was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the world .
She added : `` Despite what we are doing , the virus is still being transmitted in our communities '' .
The daily Scottish government briefing was held as emergency powers to help tackle the coronavirus crisis were unveiled at the Scottish Parliament .
The Coronavirus ( Scotland ) Bill , which will be debated by MSPs on Wednesday , covers a wide variety of areas including special measures for court trials which would normally go before a jury , and safeguarding tenants from eviction .
The provisions in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unless the Scottish Parliament approves an extension for a further six months .
Ms Sturgeon said the legislation was `` an unprecedented response to an unprecedented situation '' , saying powers `` will not remain in force any longer than is absolutely necessary '' .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

She said the only group that was not seeing a sustained increase in the number of confirmed cases was those under the age of 15, which she said was in line with the experience of other countries across the world.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: D-Day veteran Harold Pearsall dies, aged 97

Peter Lloyd , of the 1944 Alliance Normandy-Market Garden veterans ' association , said his friend tested positive for Covid-19 while at hospital in Birmingham on Friday .
Mr Pearsall , who took part in the Allies ' assault on Caen in 1944 , received the Légion d'Honneur in 2015 .
In 2005 , he told the BBC 's World War II memories project , he remembered being ambushed by phosphorous bombs and grenades , as his unit suffered heavy losses .
Mr Lloyd , the association 's secretary said : `` It is with great sadness that I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend and brother veteran Chevalier Harold Pearsall la Légion d'Honneur .
`` Our prayers and thoughts are with Harold 's family and friends . ''
Mr Pearsall , who was previously in hospital with a broken hip , was admitted to Good Hope Hospital , Birmingham , last week .
He `` was isolated '' after testing positive for the virus and could not have visitors , Mr Lloyd said .
Before ill health , he was a `` very active '' member of the Birmingham association and went on regular trips to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a widower with two sons , enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships , Mr Lloyd said .
`` He was very proud and always clean , smart and tidy '' , he said .
He marked last year 's 75th anniversary of D-Day at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas , Staffordshire , with hundreds of veterans .
At the event he talked about his military service to Prince William who he later described as `` a very nice fella '' .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
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Mr Lloyd, the association's secretary said: "It is with great sadness that I have to announce the passing of our dear friend and brother veteran Chevalier Harold Pearsall la Légion d'Honneur.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: National League's three divisions suspended indefinitely

The three divisions of England 's National League have been suspended indefinitely because of coronavirus .
The competition had been originally postponed until 3 April but that has now been extended following a board meeting on Tuesday .
It comes after all non-league football in steps three to seven was ended immediately on Thursday with no promotion or relegation .
The National League said it was looking at `` how best to conclude '' the season .
But it is not yet known if the competition , which is made up of the National League - English football 's fifth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League South , will also be cancelled with all results expunged .
`` The National League is currently obtaining specialist legal advice , is consulting regularly with the Football Association and other stakeholders , and is committed to involving its member clubs in a pending decision on how best to conclude the 2019-20 season , '' a statement said .
More than 100 clubs have sent an open letter to the FA , calling for it to `` urgently '' reconsider the decision to expunge seasons from the men 's seventh tier and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The decision is yet to be ratified by the FA Council .
Barrow are four points clear at the top of the National League , with fifth-tier clubs having between seven and 10 league fixtures remaining to complete the season .
• Barrow could be voted into EFL , says club director

Last updated on .From the section National League
Barrow are four points clear at the top of the National League
The three divisions of England's National League have been suspended indefinitely because of coronavirus.
The competition had been originally postponed until 3 April but that has now been extended following a board meeting on Tuesday.
It comes after all non-league football in steps three to seven was ended immediately on Thursday with no promotion or relegation.
The National League said it was looking at "how best to conclude" the season.
But it is not yet known if the competition, which is made up of the National League - English football's fifth tier - National League North and National League South, will also be cancelled with all results expunged.
"The National League is currently obtaining specialist legal advice, is consulting regularly with the Football Association and other stakeholders, and is committed to involving its member clubs in a pending decision on how best to conclude the 2019-20 season," a statement said.
More than 100 clubs have sent an open letter to the FA, calling for it to "urgently" reconsider the decision to expunge seasons from the men's seventh tier and the women's third tier downwards.
The decision is yet to be ratified by the FA Council.
Barrow are four points clear at the top of the National League, with fifth-tier clubs having between seven and 10 league fixtures remaining to complete the season.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Unclaimed £58m lottery ticket bought in Ayrshire

A EuroMillions lottery jackpot prize of almost £58m has yet to be claimed from a ticket bought in South Ayrshire @ @ @ @ @ .
The winning ticket matched all five main numbers and the two Lucky Star numbers @ @ @ @ @ March .
The winning numbers for the draw were 05 , 07 , 08 , @ @ @ @ @ the Lucky Stars 2 and 12 .
The ticket-holder has until Sunday 13 September to @ @ @ @ @ £57,869,670 prize .
Andy Carter , from The National Lottery , said : `` We @ @ @ @ @ mystery ticket-holder and unite them with this massive prize which could really make a huge @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We 're urging everyone who might have bought a EuroMillions ticket in this @ @ @ @ @ tickets or look for any missing tickets at home . ''

"We're urging everyone who might have bought a EuroMillions ticket in this area to check their old tickets or look for any missing tickets at home."


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Star Wars actor Andrew Jack dies aged 76

An actor and dialect coach who appeared in Star Wars and worked with A-list celebrities has died after contracting Covid-19 , his agent has said .
Agent Jill McCullough said she had been inundated with tributes to one of the acting world 's `` brightest and clearest voices '' .
She said Jack was unable to see his wife in his final days because she was quarantined in Australia .
His acting credits included The Last Jedi and the Force Awakens .
Fellow Star Wars actor Greg Grunberg said he was `` devastated '' to learn of Jack 's death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , talented , beloved gentleman '' .
`` He is one of the kindest people I 've ever worked with , '' he added .
Jack , who lived on a houseboat on the River Thames , had been `` full of life '' , `` funny , charming and a joy to be around , '' his agent said .
`` He was still working full-pelt , currently coaching on the new Batman , '' she added .
He had been unable to see his wife , fellow dialect coach Gabrielle Rogers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love with '' , because she was `` stuck in quarantine in Australia , having just flown in from New Zealand last week , '' Ms McCullough said .

He had been unable to see his wife, fellow dialect coach Gabrielle Rogers, who he was "madly in love with", because she was "stuck in quarantine in Australia, having just flown in from New Zealand last week," Ms McCullough said.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Paramedic protective kit 'only fit for making sandwiches'

A paramedic in the London Ambulance Service ( LAS ) has claimed the kit workers have been given to protect them from coronavirus would be more suitable for people making sandwiches .
The south London medic , who did not want to be identified , said the basic apron , gloves and masks were not sufficient protection from infection .
`` It feels like every day I 'm exposing myself and potentially my family to this virus , '' he told the BBC .
In a document seen by the BBC , LAS has told its paramedics to wear basic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a surgical mask - for most call-outs .
The advanced PPE - including a white boiler suit , FFP3 mask , and goggles - is reserved only for confirmed cases of coronavirus , and in situations where paramedics have to perform invasive procedures such as full CPR .
Chest compressions - during which breath is forced from a patient 's body - alone are not considered invasive enough to warrant advanced PPE , in the LAS guidance .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) says paramedics should wear a full gown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their knees , when helping patients who might have the virus into an ambulance and taking them to hospital .
But the LAS paramedic , in his 30s , said aprons distributed to him and his colleagues are `` like something someone would make a sandwich with , someone serving you a sandwich '' .
`` It 's the thinnest thing you can imagine and it covers maybe 30 % of your uniform , '' he added .
In one recent example , the paramedic said he was carrying a critically-unwell patient with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ambulance .
`` When wheeling them outside , the bottom half of the apron flew up and stuck to my face .
One - I could n't see where I was going .
And two - all of the virus that was likely on my apron was now on my face .
My crew mate had to pull it down , '' he said .
He said he could not clean his face until he was at the hospital about half an hour later .
He added that the `` majority '' of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment have symptoms of coronavirus - `` coughing over us while we assess them '' - but because testing is predominantly only happening for people already in hospital , they are not counted as confirmed cases .
`` We are surrounded by it now and we 're not sufficiently protected , '' he said , adding that he was worried ambulance workers were helping to spread the virus .
The chief operating officer for LAS , Khadir Meer , said the safety , health and wellbeing of staff was an `` absolute top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crews to attend people with possible or confirmed Covid-19 without the correct protective equipment '' .
He added there were stocks of PPE `` for all those who need them '' and that the level of protection LAS workers should wear was in line with `` the latest guidance '' from Public Health England .
Heather Lawrence , chair of LAS 's NHS trust board , said in a Facebook comment to LAS staff , seen by the BBC , that the aprons were `` inadequate '' .
`` I agree [ with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are inadequate in general and particularly for the environment you work in , and I believe that this will be resolved as soon as possible , '' she said .
But the paramedic said as soon as possible was `` too late '' because many of his colleagues have already contracted the virus , including at least one who has had to have ventilator treatment .
He said even if the guidance was updated soon , in the meantime crews were still going out `` with inadequate PPE '' .
• A SIMPLE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to look after your mental health The paramedic said morale in the LAS was `` really , really low '' as a result of the `` extremely stressful '' situations posed by the coronavirus pandemic .
He said he was `` without a doubt '' the `` most stressed I 've ever been at work '' , adding the `` all-consuming '' work was difficult to switch off from .
`` My stress levels… .
I 've felt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last couple of weeks which I do n't usually get from work , '' he said .
`` I feel duty bound more than ever to go out there and help in the pandemic , but it 's difficult when I do n't feel adequately protected . ''
He added that LAS colleagues are `` completely losing it '' - with some going home crying after every shift and others contemplating quitting their jobs .
The medic said he and colleagues were also worried stock of advanced PPE could soon run out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start of shifts driving between several ambulance stations before managing to find appropriate kit .
`` At the start of every shift we have to check what PPE we have .
We 've got loads of the surgical masks , which are substandard .
The FFP3 masks , the proper ones , sometimes you get in the ambulance and they 're not there ... often you have to go around different stations to find some . ''
Ms Lawrence said in a public message on Monday that she was `` exceptionally grateful '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing .
She added that over the past two weeks , 999 control rooms in London had received record-breaking numbers of calls - almost 8,000 per day .
`` The situation will get more difficult before it starts to get better .
As a service we will need to draw on all our strength and resilience to get through it , '' Ms Lawrence said .
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Are you waiting for a coronavirus test ?
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"When wheeling them outside, the bottom half of the apron flew up and stuck to my face. One - I couldn't see where I was going. And two - all of the virus that was likely on my apron was now on my face. My crew mate had to pull it down," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: 'I don't want a flight voucher, where's my refund?'

Frustrated customers are demanding that airlines make it easier to claim a refund for flights cancelled owing to the coronavirus outbreak .
But the airlines ' trade body wants the right to give vouchers , not refunds .
Hundreds of flights have been cancelled as fleets are grounded and the process of reimbursing people is under strain .
EasyJet has faced particular anger as rebooking is done online but refunds require calling customer services and getting through is almost impossible .
Holly Fitton , writing on Facebook , said : `` I have been told to ring you for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebook my flight as it is not possible and fit in with our jobs at this current time .
`` I will be getting a refund and the money is needed .
I rang 14 times yesterday and was greeted with line busy noise or 'please ring back ' . ''
Another , Robin Parker , wrote : `` Since my flights have now been cancelled how am I supposed to get a refund ?
I do n't want 'new flights for which I would have to pay the difference ' . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on cancelled flights can transfer to an alternative flight free of charge or receive a voucher for the value of their booking online or claim a refund through our contact centre .
`` We are experiencing higher than average wait times so we would thank customers for their patience and assure them that these entitlements will be available long after their cancelled flight has flown . ''
What are my rights ?
• If your flight is cancelled , you are entitled to a full refund to the original form of payment within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be struggling to meet that deadline .
You can accept , or refuse , vouchers or a rebooking but a voucher will probably be invalid if the airline later goes bust • If you decide against going on a future flight , which is not yet cancelled , then there is no right to a refund .
Different airlines have different rules over what you can do but many are waiving any charges for changing to a later flight or having a voucher instead .
Your travel insurance may , or may not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to get home , the airline has a duty to get you back .
However , with so many flights cancelled , this has become increasingly difficult .
Now , the government has agreed to step in when needed to return those who are stranded • If you are stuck in the EU and a UK or EU carrier is not rerouting or helping you , you should be able to come home on any airline you can and bill the original airline for the new ticket .
The airline is legally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be rerouting you themselves .
If they are failing to do that , they are responsible for the cost of getting you home .
But you should not cancel and accept a refund as this ends the airline 's duty of care towards you and you wo n't be able to claim anything back .
It is best to pay by credit card Tim Alderslade , chief executive of Airlines UK , which represents the industry , said the financial situation was `` very grave '' for the sector .
He called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect airlines so they could continue to operate in the future .
`` At the very top of the list is allowing airlines to issue vouchers instead of refunds in the event of cancellations , like other EU countries are doing , which would hugely help with liquidity and support airlines through the coming months , '' he said .
Travel organisation Abta has called for a four month deadline to pay refunds for package holidays .
However , consumer group Which ?
said that , even in unprecedented times , the rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an `` afterthought '' .
`` It is essential that businesses do right by their customers - particularly more vulnerable ones who may urgently need their money back , '' said Rory Boland , editor of Which ?
Travel .
EasyJet is not alone in facing criticism .
Similarly , customers have reported long waits on the live chat system when pursuing refunds from Ryanair .
BA has faced accusations of `` hiding '' the refund option for frequent flyers .
Many airlines are encouraging people to take vouchers , instead of refunds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a grey area for refund rights .
Pam and Bill Storey , from Lancashire , flew home from Fuerteventura and have been self-isolating .
She is in her 70s and he has hypertension .
Their Jet2 flight home was cancelled .
They said they were then asked to rebook on another flight .
The couple went online but found the only available flight to be €1,800 ( £1,592 ) .
They booked it expecting Jet2 to reimburse them for it but are now left feeling out of pocket .
• Why are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left feeling very stressed .
They did n't offer any help with the booking , '' said Mr Storey , who added that they felt as though they had been `` abandoned '' .
`` In the first email they said they would reimburse us .
In the second email they said nothing .
Just sort your own flights out . ''
He said their flight was full of people in similar situations , although some were transferred to another flight for no extra cost .
He and his wife got back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fly to destinations across the UK .
While in Fuerteventura they were able to go to the supermarket , pharmacy , and doctors , but nowhere else .
The taxis stopped running but people pulled together and hotel staff helped get their bags to the airport , while also helping elderly and disabled guests .
Jet2 has not responded to the BBC 's request for a response to their case .

Their Jet2 flight home was cancelled. They said they were then asked to rebook on another flight. The couple went online but found the only available flight to be €1,800 (£1,592). They booked it expecting Jet2 to reimburse them for it but are now left feeling out of pocket.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: UK considers virus-tracing app to ease lockdown

A coronavirus app that alerts people if they have recently been in contact with someone testing positive for the virus `` could play a critical role '' in limiting lockdowns , scientists advising the government have said .
The location-tracking tech would enable a week 's worth of manual detective work to be done in an instant , they say .
But the academics say no-one should be forced to enrol - at least initially .
UK health chiefs have confirmed they are exploring the idea .
`` NHSX is looking at whether app-based solutions might be helpful in tracking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assembled expertise from inside and outside the organisation to do this as rapidly as possible , '' said the tech-focused division 's chief Matthew Gould .
The study by the team at the University of Oxford 's Big Data Institute and Nuffield Department of Population Health was published in the journal Science .
It proposes that an app would record people 's GPS location data as they move about their daily lives .
This would be supplemented by users scanning QR ( quick response ) codes posted to public amenities in places where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as Bluetooth signals .
If a person starts feeling ill , it is suggested they use the app to request a home test .
And if it comes back positive for Covid-19 , then an instant signal would be sent to everyone they had been in close contact with over recent days .
Those people would be advised to self-isolate for a fortnight , but would not be told who had triggered the warning .
In addition , the test subject 's workplace and their transport providers could be told to carry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ constrictions that we 're currently under place [ many people ] under severe strain , '' said the paper 's co-lead Prof Christophe Fraser .
`` Therefore if you have the ability with a bit more information and the use of an app to relax a lockdown , that could provide very substantial and direct benefits .
`` Also I think a substantial number of lives can be saved . ''
To encourage take-up , it is suggested the app also acts as a hub for coronavirus-related health services and serves as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The academics note that similar smartphone software has already been deployed in China .
It was also voluntary there , but users were allowed to go into public spaces or on public transport only if they had installed it .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
One of the ethics specialists involved in the Oxford study said he did not think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK , but added that private enterprises might still impose restrictions .
`` My favourite restaurant might ask me to show that I was low-risk before allowing me into a crowded place , and I think that would be a perfectly reasonable price to pay for this step towards returning to normal life , '' Prof Michael Parker told the BBC .
He added that employers might also be justified in requiring staff to use the app if they worked `` in an old people 's home , with vulnerable groups or [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
And while he said that the general public should not be compelled to use the app to begin with , he did not rule this out if the majority failed to do so .
`` The key question is - does it require everyone to do it for it to be effective ? ''
Prof Parker explained .
`` It 's not essential that everyone does ... but perhaps a high proportion of the population needs to .
`` This is a really unusual situation where lives are at risk , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made to make at least some actions compulsory - but there would need to be a really clear case for that and careful oversight . ''
The paper adds that the app could be updated to tackle the pandemic more aggressively if required .
For example , it says , the stay-at-home alerts could be expanded to second or even third-degree contacts .
And while the paper advocates the app being used in conjunction with home tests , Prof Fraser said his team was currently exploring whether it would still be effective if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or 111 helpline advisers to diagnose the condition .
He acknowledged some people might be wary of using the service , but hoped they would do so to `` save a lot of lives '' .
`` We already have tracking apps on our phones for more trivial tasks - the reason we have live traffic information is because we allow the people that provide the mapping service to track us , '' he said .
`` What we 're suggesting here is essentially sharing anonymised information [ to ] put to good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK is preparing to roll out its own contact-tracing app and this paper by scientists who are close to the government reinforces what a vital role it could play .
But it also shows why it may be a while before any app is rolled out .
A key part of making the process by which people are informed that they have been in contact with someone infected with Covid-19 is the availability of testing .
With only 11,000 tests a day available right now , most people who installed an app might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developed mild symptoms of the virus .
Without a confirmed diagnosis , nothing would happen .
The other concern is privacy .
With the government wary of being seen as Big Brother , the app would need to convince users it would n't allow them to be spied on for ever more .
Singapore 's TraceTogether , which has been praised by privacy experts for collecting a bare minimum of data , could provide a template for the NHS app .
Rather than constantly tracking people , it uses Bluetooth to record your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can be alerted if you later test positive for the virus .
But while the government will almost certainly make use of the app optional , the concern is that it could become essential for anyone wanting to return to normal life .
What , for instance , is to stop pubs and restaurants demanding to see evidence of your Covid status before allowing you in ?
When the app does emerge , there will be a major marketing exercise behind it to convince as many people as possible to install it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a good proportion of the population are persuaded that it will help the UK beat the virus - and let them leave home and get back to work .

But it also shows why it may be a while before any app is rolled out. A key part of making the process by which people are informed that they have been in contact with someone infected with Covid-19 is the availability of testing. With only 11,000 tests a day available right now, most people who installed an app might find it of little use if they developed mild symptoms of the virus. Without a confirmed diagnosis, nothing would happen.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--What's in Scotland's emergency coronavirus bill?

MSPs are set to pass emergency legislation giving the Scottish government new powers to tackle the coronavirus crisis .
What is in this new bill , and how is it going to work ?
Why is the bill needed ?
It hardly needs to be pointed out , but the coronavirus pandemic has meant huge changes to life in Scotland .
The government says the outbreak is a `` severe and sustained threat to human life '' , and that the public health measures needed to limit the spread of the virus `` will require a significant adjustment '' to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and regulated .
Many changes have already happened , via Westminster legislation and powers already held by Scottish ministers .
But more needs to be done at Holyrood , particularly in relation to devolved areas like housing and justice .
This is where the Coronavirus ( Scotland ) Bill comes in .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says the bill has been drawn up on a cross-party basis , and MSPs are due to push it through parliament in a single day .
What does it mean for tenants ?
One of the main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who rent their homes increased protection from eviction during the pandemic .
New rules will increase the minimum notice period for private and social tenants to up to six months , as long as there are not grounds involving antisocial or criminal behaviour , or if the landlord needs to move into the property themselves .
This is intended to give people time to apply for support or benefits so they can pay bills in the short term , and to make longer-term plans .
Ministers say that while those facing rent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the legislation is `` an important backstop to prevent evictions and relieve the financial pressure people may be facing '' .
What does it mean for the justice system ?
The bill includes a range of measures to keep the justice system running during the pandemic , to make sure `` essential '' criminal trials can continue .
It allows for any participant in a criminal or civil proceeding in court to appear via video or audio link from elsewhere , and some procedural hearings could be held entirely over the internet .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ which usually exist for criminal proceedings , meaning more trials could be delayed .
Ministers say it `` is not appropriate '' to expect juries to sit while social distancing rules are in place , so more trials could take place just before a judge .
And it includes powers for the government to release some prisoners early should so many prisoner officers and staff fall ill that it is no longer safe to operate prisons at their current population levels .
Nicola Sturgeon has stressed that this power would only be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subject to vote in parliament - and would exclude prisoners on life sentences or who have been convicted of sexual crimes .
What does it mean for businesses and public bodies ?
The legislation also includes a number of provisions to keep businesses and public services running during the outbreak .
This includes changes to deadlines over planning and licensing rules for local authorities , as much business in this area has been put on hold with pubs and construction sites closing down .
Local authorities will also be allowed to exclude the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grounds '' , something the government said was a `` reasonable and proportionate measure to protect the public and council members '' .
The bill also extends the deadline for public bodies to respond to Freedom of Information requests from 20 days to 60 days .
And it includes short-term protection for debtors , extending the period for which creditors are barred from taking action against people and firms - a moratorium - to six months .
How long will the government have these powers ?
Ministers have insisted that these emergency measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duration of the outbreak '' .
The legislation includes a `` sunset clause '' , meaning that most of it will automatically expire six months after it comes into force .
MSPs will be able to vote to extend this for another six months if necessary , and then for another six months after that , but this is the absolute limit - so the measures in the bill have a maximum duration of 18 months .
Ministers have also pledged to report back to Holyrood every two months about the use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the bill ?
A range of measures to contain the virus and help support communities and the economy have already been implemented without the use of Scottish-specific legislation .
For example the UK government 's moves to support workers , both those under contract and the self-employed , are being implemented without new laws being passed .
The new powers given to police officers to enforce to social distancing rules are underpinned by UK legislation , and also do not require specific legislation at Holyrood - although they are also subject to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole Holyrood bill is designed to `` complement and support '' the UK legislation , which MSPs formally gave their backing to the day before it passed .
How quickly will the bill be passed ?
The legislation started its life like any other bill tabled at Holyrood , but is about to hit the fast track .
MSPs will vote to take the bill forward as emergency legislation , and then zip it through the parliament in less than nine hours .
They have little choice in the matter , given the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this week .
They will hold the stage one debate on the general principles of the bill on Wednesday morning , then hold what would normally be the committee stage to consider amendments in the full chamber .
This will be immediately followed by the final stage debate , before the final vote in the evening .
Only 79 of the 129 MSPs can currently fit in the chamber as seats have been removed to maintain social distancing rules .
However only 33 are actually needed to pass a law - one quarter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As soon as the bill receives royal assent , it will become law .
This can take up to four weeks , but the process can be accelerated .
MSPs last worked this fast in October 2010 , when the Criminal Procedure ( Legal Assistance , Detention and Appeals Scotland ) Bill was passed inside a single day in light of a UK Supreme Court judgement .
It received royal assent two days later .

What's in Scotland's emergency coronavirus bill? Published 2 April 2020
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, A coronavirus lockdown is already in place across Scotland
MSPs have passed emergency legislation giving the Scottish government new powers to tackle the coronavirus crisis. What is in this new bill, and how is it going to work?
Why is the bill needed?
It hardly needs to be pointed out, but the coronavirus pandemic has meant huge changes to life in Scotland.
The government says the outbreak is a "severe and sustained threat to human life", and that the public health measures needed to limit the spread of the virus "will require a significant adjustment" to how businesses and public services are delivered and regulated.
Many changes have already happened, via Westminster legislation and powers already held by Scottish ministers.
But more needs to be done at Holyrood, particularly in relation to devolved areas like housing and justice. This is where the Coronavirus (Scotland) Bill comes in.
The bill was drawn up on a cross-party basis, and MSPs unanimously agreed to push it through Holyrood after a single day of debate.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Holyrood is sitting for a single day to consider the bill - and will then close for several weeks
What does it mean for tenants?
One of the main functions of the legislation is to give people who rent their homes increased protection from eviction during the pandemic.
New rules will increase the minimum notice period for private and social tenants to up to six months, as long as there are not grounds involving antisocial or criminal behaviour, or if the landlord needs to move into the property themselves.
This is intended to give people time to apply for support or benefits so they can pay bills in the short term, and to make longer-term plans.
Ministers say that while those facing rent arrears should speak to their landlords, the legislation is "an important backstop to prevent evictions and relieve the financial pressure people may be facing".
Proposals by the Greens to toughen these rules by barring eviction notices altogether were rejected by MSPs.
Image caption, Landlords will not be able to evict tenants in the short term
What does it mean for the justice system?
The bill includes a range of measures to keep the justice system running during the pandemic, to make sure "essential" criminal trials can continue.
It allows for any participant in a criminal or civil proceeding in court to appear via video or audio link from elsewhere, and some procedural hearings could be held entirely over the internet.
The legislation also extends the time limits which usually exist for criminal proceedings, meaning more trials could be delayed. Proposals to have more trials take place without a jury were dropped after an outcry from the legal profession and opposition parties - but could yet resurface in another bill.
The legislation also includes powers for the government to release some prisoners early should so many prisoner officers and staff fall ill that it is no longer safe to operate prisons at their current population levels.
Nicola Sturgeon has stressed that this power would only be used as a "last resort" - subject to vote in parliament - and would exclude prisoners on life sentences or who have been convicted of sexual crimes.
Image caption, Some prisoners could be released if staff levels are badly hit by the virus
What does it mean for businesses and public bodies?
The legislation also includes a number of provisions to keep businesses and public services running during the outbreak.
This includes changes to deadlines over planning and licensing rules for local authorities, as much business in this area has been put on hold with pubs and construction sites closing down.
Local authorities will also be allowed to exclude the public from their meetings "on health grounds", something the government said was a "reasonable and proportionate measure to protect the public and council members".
The bill also extends the deadline for public bodies to respond to Freedom of Information requests from 20 days to 60 days. After concerns from opposition parties, ministers agreed that this would not apply to the government itself and that extensions should only be used in a "targeted way".
The bill also includes short-term protection for debtors, extending the period for which creditors are barred from taking action against people and firms - a moratorium - to six months.
Image caption, Scottish councils will be able to exclude the public from meetings
How long will the government have these powers?
Ministers have insisted that these emergency measures will be "strictly limited to the duration of the outbreak".
The legislation includes a "sunset clause", meaning that most of it will automatically expire six months after it comes into force.
MSPs will be able to vote to extend this for another six months if necessary, and then for another six months after that, but this is the absolute limit - so the measures in the bill have a maximum duration of 18 months.
Ministers have also pledged to report back to Holyrood every two months about the use of the emergency powers.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Seats have been removed in the Holyrood chamber to maintain social distancing between MSPs
What isn't in the bill?
A range of measures to contain the virus and help support communities and the economy have already been implemented without the use of Scottish-specific legislation.
For example the UK government's moves to support workers, both those under contract and the self-employed, are being implemented without new laws being passed.
The new powers given to police officers to enforce to social distancing rules are underpinned by UK legislation, and also do not require specific legislation at Holyrood - although they are also subject to a "sunset clause".


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: How do I get a food parcel?

People have been stockpiling food , supermarket online delivery slots are full , items are restricted in stores and vulnerable people are being sent food parcels by the government .
So what is being done to make sure people can get food ?
A total of one-and-a-half million people in England have been identified as being extremely medically vulnerable .
The government has contacted 900,000 of these and plans to distribute free food parcels every week to more than 50,000 who have no family or friends to help them .
The first 4,000 were delivered at the weekend .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pasta , cereal , fruit , tea bags , potatoes and tinned goods , as well as toilet paper .
A food distribution company will deliver the packs to people 's doorsteps , although in some cases local authorities , charities or emergency services may help out .
The government is working in partnership with the food industry , local government , and voluntary groups and could potentially deliver hundreds of thousands every week .
What are supermarkets doing to keep customers safe ?
Branches of the main supermarkets have introduced policies to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one other .
These include somebody on the door controlling customer numbers , and spacing out those queuing outside .
Inside , many supermarkets are providing hand sanitiser for customers and floor markers for till queues .
In addition , some are putting up screens between the cashiers and the public .
Other initiatives include Tesco introducing floor markings showing which direction to walk down the aisles in some of its larger stores .
Morrisons has a queuing zone if there are too many customers to be separated by the floor markings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There is plenty to go round Despite empty shelves caused by panic buying in the past couple of weeks , the supermarkets say there is no shortage of food .
The problem has been getting deliveries to shops as fast as people buy key items , they say .
The stores are now taking action to combat this by introducing strict purchase limits on individual items .
Tesco has doubled the amount of some key items arriving in stores , including toilet rolls , pasta and rice .
Sainsbury 's says that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they have stayed on shelves for longer .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • UK LATEST : What 's the UK 's plan and what could happen next ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak What else have supermarkets done ?
The supermarkets have introduced allotted times of the day when only the elderly , vulnerable and disabled , or NHS staff and other key workers , can shop .
Several food retailers are `` drastically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell .
They are also telling manufacturers to stop making some products to focus on those for which there is greatest demand .
How are online deliveries holding up ?
This has been a sticking point for many people who , despite following Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's request to stay at home and use online deliveries , find themselves unable to book slots .
Tesco , which last week limited online orders to 80 items only , has now expanded its home delivery and click-and-collect services to about 780,000 slots this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It has plans to add another 100,000 slots in the coming weeks .
It has also recruited more than 7,500 staff and added more than 200 new vans to its fleet .
Asda is also recruiting more delivery drivers , while Sainsbury 's has introduced priority slots for elderly and vulnerable customers and is contacting eligible customers on its database .
Morrisons is creating 3,500 new jobs to help expand its online delivery service , while Waitrose says it will set aside at least a quarter of its delivery slots to elderly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identify eligible customers .
What is the government doing ?
Rules have been relaxed by the government to allow supermarkets to work together .
This means they can share resources , such as distribution depots , delivery vans and staff , as well as co-ordinating stock levels across the country .
Rules around drivers ' hours have been eased and the 5p plastic bag charge is being waived for online orders , to speed up deliveries .

Other initiatives include Tesco introducing floor markings showing which direction to walk down the aisles in some of its larger stores. Morrisons has a queuing zone if there are too many customers to be separated by the floor markings, while Asda is bringing in directional barriers.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus in UK: How many confirmed cases are there in your area?

In the UK there are more than 25,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and at least 1,789 people , who have tested positive for the virus , have died .
More than 118,000 people in the UK have been tested for the virus but were found not to have it .
The actual number of people with the respiratory infection in the country is estimated to be much higher .
Find out how many people have confirmed cases in your area : If you ca n't see the look-up click here .
The following charts and graphics will help you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the authorities are dealing with it .
The new coronavirus , which causes the respiratory disease known as Covid-19 , was first confirmed in the UK at the end of January .
While there were a number of people testing positive throughout February , figures in the UK began to increase at the beginning of March .
Numbers are now increasing rapidly - the number of cases has increased by more than 3,000 since Monday , according to the Department of Health and Social Care .
The number of deaths has risen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been 1,651 deaths in England .
In Scotland , 60 people have died so far , while the figure in Wales is 69 .
Northern Ireland has seen a total of 28 deaths .
A week ago the government introduced a series of restrictions on people 's movement in a bid to slow the virus 's spread .
Professor Stephen Powis , Medical Director of NHS England , said what appeared to be a slight slowing in the rate of new cases could be seen as `` green shoots '' , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the battle against the virus .
UK figures are currently lower than some other European countries , such as Italy , for example , where there have been more than 105,000 confirmed cases and more than 12,400 deaths .
Globally , authorities have confirmed more than 826,000 cases of the coronavirus and 40,700 deaths .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• EASY STEPS : How can I try to stay well ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the pandemic 2 .
London has seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK have been in England , primarily in London .
The capital has seen almost 600 fatalities so far .
There are almost 4,000 people being treated in London hospitals , according to figures released during the daily government news conference on Tuesday .
The ExCel exhibition centre in east London is being converted into a field hospital which could eventually hold up to 4,000 patients .
At least two further temporary hospitals are planned : one at the NEC centre in Birmingham that will house 5,000 beds and another at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will have 1,000 beds .
Work has also started to turn part of Birmingham Airport into a mortuary able to store at least 1,500 bodies , should the death toll rise significantly .
Most deaths have been among the elderly .
Figures released by the ONS show 76 out of 103 deaths in the week to 20 March were in people aged over 75 .
3 .
We are in the second phase of the government 's response The government 's action plan for dealing with the virus involves three phases - contain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ research .
After trying to contain the disease , the country moved to the `` delay '' phase on 12 March to stop the wider spread of the virus .
Even if you have no symptoms , the government says you should : • Stay at home - only go out for essential shopping or medicines and to exercise once a day • Stop all non-essential contact with others - public gatherings of more than two people are banned • Stop all unnecessary travel - you can travel to work if absolutely necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been given powers to fine people deliberately flouting the restrictions , with increasing penalties for repeat offenders .
The government is now encouraging self-isolation at home for over 70s , and those more vulnerable to the virus , for 12 weeks .
British nationals should avoid all non-essential foreign travel to tackle the spread of coronavirus , the Foreign Office has advised .
Retired NHS staff have been asked to return to work .
A government appeal for volunteers to help deliver food and medicine to the vulnerable has prompted more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think they have coronavirus should self-isolate Symptoms include a high temperature and a `` new , continuous '' cough - this means coughing a lot for more than an hour , or three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours ( if you usually have a cough , it may be worse than usual ) .
If you think you have coronavirus you are advised not to go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
Instead , you stay at home for seven days .
If you live with other people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away from them and they should also stay home for 14 days to see if they develop symptoms .
If your symptoms persist or worsen you should contact the NHS 's dedicated 111 online coronavirus service or call 111 .

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


bbcuk--2020-03-31--BBC's George Alagiah on living with coronavirus and cancer

BBC newsreader George Alagiah , who is being treated for bowel cancer , has revealed he 's had a mild @ @ @ @ @ a cancer patient , he underwent tests after developing a fever – and a few @ @ @ @ @ to say he had tested positive for the virus .
The News at Six on @ @ @ @ @ diagnosed with cancer in 2014 but revealed in 2017 that the disease had returned .
@ @ @ @ @ I think that those of us living with cancer are stronger because we kind of @ @ @ @ @ to go into something where the outcomes are uncertain , '' he told colleague Sophie @ @

BBC newsreader George Alagiah, who is being treated for bowel cancer, has revealed he's had a mild case of coronavirus.
As a cancer patient, he underwent tests after developing a fever – and a few days later his oncologist rang to say he had tested positive for the virus.
The News at Six on BBC One presenter was first diagnosed with cancer in 2014 but revealed in 2017 that the disease had returned.
"In some ways, I think that those of us living with cancer are stronger because we kind of know what it is like to go into something where the outcomes are uncertain," he told colleague Sophie Raworth.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Bristol GP surgery's dances a hit with care home

Staff at a Bristol GP surgery have started daily lunchtime dances for residents of a nearby care home .
Initially @ @ @ @ @ Green Valleys Health were just to boost staff morale .
Now the surgery staff , @ @ @ @ @ home next door are out every day bringing a smile to the residents .

Staff at a Bristol GP surgery have started daily lunchtime dances for residents of a nearby care home.
Initially the car park routines by Green Valleys Health were just to boost staff morale.
Now the surgery staff, and workers from the care home next door are out every day bringing a smile to the residents.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Family goes viral with lockdown Les Mis song adaptation

A UK family has gone viral with their self-isolation adaptation of a song from the musical Les Miserables .
The @ @ @ @ @ , have told BBC Breakfast how their parody of One Day More came about – @ @ @ @ @ family argument in the video .
They spoke to presenters Dan Walker and Louise Minchin @

A UK family has gone viral with their self-isolation adaptation of a song from the musical Les Miserables.
The Marsh family, from Kent, have told BBC Breakfast how their parody of One Day More came about – and the story behind their family argument in the video.
They spoke to presenters Dan Walker and Louise Minchin.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--The Papers: Testing 'fiasco' and UK's youngest virus death

The Times says Boris Johnson has taken charge of efforts to source these chemicals , as the government admitted they @ @ @ @ @ for frontline NHS staff .
According to the paper , the prime minister and Health @ @ @ @ @ talks with pharmaceutical companies around the world after admitting the shortage was constraining efforts to @ @ @ @

The Guardian quotes a family friend who says the boy's mother and his six siblings are now waiting for the results of a post-mortem. They couldn't be with him when he died because of the danger of infection.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Woodmancote murder probe: Family of four found dead in house are named

Four members of a family found dead at a house in West Sussex have been named by police .
The bodies of Kelly Fitzgibbons , 40 , and Robert Needham , 42 , were found alongside their children Ava Needham , four , and two-year-old Lexi Needham .
A murder investigation began after police were called to Duffield Lane in Woodmancote near Chichester on Sunday .
Detectives are `` not seeking anyone else in connection with the matter '' and described it as an `` isolated incident '' .
A post-mortem examination has not yet taken place and police have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths .
The body of a pet dog was also found at the house , police said .
Local resident and district councillor Roy Briscoe said he lived in the same lane .
`` They were a young couple , with two young children .
We ca n't believe what happened , '' he told BBC Radio Sussex .
`` It really is saddening .
The whole lane is in shock really . ''
Ch Supt Westerman said it was a `` a very , very difficult situation to have to deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Police family liaison officers had been deployed to support the family , while detectives carry out house-to-house enquiries , speak to witnesses and carry out forensic investigations , he said .
`` Importantly , we will be speaking to the family to understand what has gone on and get to the bottom of what has happened , '' he added .

"Importantly, we will be speaking to the family to understand what has gone on and get to the bottom of what has happened," he added.


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Covid-19 confirmed in Western Isles and Orkney

Cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the Western Isles and Orkney .
A single case in Orkney and two in Lewis , in the Western Isles , mean the virus has now been confirmed in all Scottish health board areas .
Details of the island cases have been released by local health boards .
They have not yet been reflected in Scottish government 's Scotland-wide figures for confirmed cases .
The Orkney health board released details of its case on Monday and NHS Western Isles on Tuesday .
NHS Orkney 's chief executive Gerry O ' Brien said confirming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was in the islands was `` inevitable '' , but should not cause `` additional alarm or distress to anyone '' .
He said : `` We fully understand that the current situation is causing anxiety across Orkney , but we want to reassure people that we have taken and continue to take steps to protect both patients and staff from any unnecessary exposure to Covid-19 '' .
NHS Western Isles said it was `` disappointed '' to confirm the presence of the virus in the isles and it has begun an investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with local authority Comhairle nan Eilean Siar , it urged people to follow government guidance on social distancing and leaving home only when `` absolutely essential '' .
Local MSP Alasdair Allan said his thoughts were with the two people confirmed as having the virus , and their families .
In recent weeks , measures have been taken to try and prevent the spread of coronavirus to the Western Isles .
Ferry services have been reduced and operator Caledonian MacBrayne asked that only islanders used them .
An assessment centre has also been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complex in Barra , in the south of the island chain , because of the distance to reach hospital services .

He said: "We fully understand that the current situation is causing anxiety across Orkney, but we want to reassure people that we have taken and continue to take steps to protect both patients and staff from any unnecessary exposure to Covid-19".


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: Officials examine possible NI field hospital sites

Health officials are weighing up potential sites for field hospitals , First Minister Arlene Foster has said .
Among the places being assessed is Balmoral Park , outside Lisburn , she said .
It has also emerged the chief medical officers on both sides of the border are to sign an agreement to co-ordinate their response .
Six more people have died with coronavirus in Northern Ireland , bringing the total to 28 .
The Public Health Agency ( PHA ) said another 53 cases had been confirmed , bringing the total to 586 .
In total 5,885 tests have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the vast majority negative .
The new figures also showed most cases were in the Belfast area .
In the Republic of Ireland , 17 more patients diagnosed with Covid-19 have died , bringing the total to 71 .
The number of cases there is now 3,235 .
On Tuesday night , it was announced a 13-year-old year old boy who tested positive for coronavirus had died in a London hospital .
It comes as the biggest daily increase in the number of people who have died with coronavirus in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , the first and deputy first ministers held talks with ministers from the Irish government .
The North-South Ministerial Council meeting took place remotely as ministers adhere to social distancing guidance .
NI Secretary Brandon Lewis and tánaiste ( Irish deputy prime minister ) Simon Coveney jointly chaired the meeting , which was also attended by the two health ministers Robin Swann and Simon Harris .
After the meeting , the Irish government issued a statement saying the participants `` welcomed the ongoing contact and co-operation between the respective health ministers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical officers , for the mutual benefit of all '' .
Speaking at the daily executive press briefing , Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill said the two chief medical officers would sign a memorandum of understanding , formalising co-ordination and co-operation between the Irish government and the NI Executive .
Dr Michael McBride and his counterpart in the Republic of Ireland , Tony Holohan , are expected to sign the document later this week .
Ms O'Neill said : `` We all know this pandemic takes no notice of borders and it makes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to save as many lives as possible across this island this is all about saving lives . ''
Northern Ireland 's Department of Health said work was ongoing to finalise a memorandum of understanding .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Also at the briefing , First Minister Arlene Foster said a decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set up in NI would be made in the `` near future '' .
Mrs Foster said Health Minister Robin Swann would `` flex his own current estate for intensive care beds first '' and the field hospitals would be `` step down '' facilities .
She suggested places being looked at included exhibition centres , such as Balmoral Park , the site of the former Maze prison .
• It was revealed that the Northern Ireland Executive has so far received an additional £912m to deal with the coronavirus crisis • The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to visit businesses accused of not implementing measures to stop the spread of the virus .
In the past week , the safety body says there 's been an 1,800 % increase in complaints from workers concerned about their safety • New guidance has been issued for schools to ensure sustainable arrangements are in place for vulnerable children and those whose parents are key workers • Emergency dental clinics are being set up in each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts for any identified Covid-19 patients as well as any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 10,000 people have registered an interest online in boosting the health and social care workforce • After suspending some services , Belfast City Council has said its bin collections will return to normal from Wednesday

Ms O'Neill said: "We all know this pandemic takes no notice of borders and it makes sense that we have a joined-up effort to save as many lives as possible across this island this is all about saving lives."


bbcuk--2020-03-31--Coronavirus: New job starters 'petrified' over wage help scheme

People who started jobs in March have been left `` petrified '' after discovering thousands are not eligible for government wage grants .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak outlined a scheme where companies could apply for a grant worth 80 % of their employees salaries - up to £2,500 a month .
But in order to qualify , workers would have had to start their new job by 28 February , meaning a significant number have fallen through the cracks .
Many have called the cut-off `` unjust '' .
Companies are choosing to furlough staff as industries grind to a halt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been offered to people who are long-term self-employed .
But workers who began working at companies on or after 1 March will not be able to receive a government grant , and some have been forced to take unpaid leave .
Natalie Greenway left a job in retail management to start a new job as a customer services manager at a call centre on 16 March .
The 24-year-old , from Burbage in Leicestershire , said : `` I got the call from my company saying 'we 're so sorry , we ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were really sympathetic and offered to keep me on the books unpaid so I could have a job to go back to .
`` I 'm staying on the books , I 'm not entitled to jobseekers as I am employed . ''
A family-of-three in Halifax , West Yorkshire , are also having to make ends meet on £140-a-week statutory maternity pay .
Yvette McGibbon and her partner Jonathan Whitehead have a three-month-old baby and were intending to get married in Gibraltar in May .
But Jonathan , 32 , has gone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job on at a car parts logistics firm on 9 March .
`` My new employer 's been really good , I 've got assurances that I can go back to my role once things get back to normal , but there 's no time frame , '' he said .
`` Thousands of families could be at risk of losing their home , and they could be at risk of not being able to feed their family .
`` It 's unjust , it does n't feel true and fair . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ca n't work ?
The couple have taken a three-month mortgage repayment holiday on their new home .
Jonathan is on immunosuppressant drugs for a pre-existing condition , and is limited to working from home .
`` I 'm petrified , the fact that we could lose our home and we 've got a three-month-old baby , '' Yvonne said .
Zoe Badder , from Penrith in Cumbria , was due to start a new administrative role at a solicitors on 23 March , but her start date has now been delayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rent with my partner , and he is working but he 's just been furloughed .
`` We 're not in as bad a situation as some people , but money is going to be very tight . ''
Her situation inspired the Twitter hashtag # newstarterfurlough , which has been used thousands of times .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak More than 12,000 people have signed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amend the cut-off date .
Labour Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has called on the government to include workers who started new jobs after 28 February .
According to finance expert Martin Lewis , some people can return to their old place of work to receive furlough payments .
`` Sadly many employers wo n't do it , '' he said .
`` However the fact it is confirmed to be legal and it can be done , may help persuade some . ''
The Treasury has been approached for comment .
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