bbcuk--2020-05-13--Ballycastle: Mother and daughter killed in road crash

A mother and daughter have been killed in a road crash just outside Ballycastle , County Antrim .
The woman who died has been named locally as Clare Smyth .
Another daughter was taken to hospital and police said she is understood to be in a critical condition .
The PSNI said a quad motorbike and a tractor collided at 16:50 BST on Tuesday on the Whitepark Road .
North Antrim MP Ian Paisley said it was an `` indescribable loss '' .
He said the family was well-known and respected and that social distancing would make grieving particularly difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each other and would want to help .
`` I think people will know that the real contact will be in our hearts and hopefully that love , and compassion and prayer will be felt and the community will be able to get around this family and help them , '' he said .
He said the child who was injured had been airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast .
`` The next 24 hours are the most critical in this little girl 's life , '' Mr Paisley said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ heard the emergency service sirens from her home , said grieving had been made more difficult by social distancing .
`` That 's the thing about it , because your immediate response is to try to go to them , '' she said .
`` That 's what I thought the minute I heard about this and then I remembered 'no I ca n't do that ' .
`` There 'll be so many people feeling that , that they ca n't go and actually give them the support and help that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The ambulance service said it sent two rapid response paramedics , three emergency crews , one doctor and two ambulance officers to the incident '' The PSNI and Coastguard also assisted in the incident , '' a spokesperson said .
`` Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene , one patient was transported to Causeway hospital initially before being transferred onwards to Belfast by coastguard helicopter . ''
North Antrim MLA Jim Allister said it was `` distressing '' news .
`` While further details are awaited it is clear a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mourning , '' he added .
Sinn Féin councillor Cara McShane said news of the collision had `` left people reeling '' .
`` The community is shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic accident just one mile outside of the town , '' she added .
The Whitepark Road has since reopened and police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact officers .

"I think people will know that the real contact will be in our hearts and hopefully that love, and compassion and prayer will be felt and the community will be able to get around this family and help them," he said.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Royal Berkshire Hospital nurse Julie Edward dies

A nurse at a hospital where complaints were made about personal protective equipment ( PPE ) shortages has died .
Julie Edward , who worked for Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust , is understood to have died from Covid-19 , according to sources of the Local Democracy Reporting Service .
Her death follows that of Royal Berkshire Hospital doctor Peter Tun .
A serious incident investigation has begun after Dr Tun 's family claimed his death was linked to a lack of PPE .
The trust has not confirmed the cause of death for either Ms Edward or Dr Tun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Edward died on 4 May after contracting the virus .
It describes her as a `` kind , strong , loving and well-respected person , both in her community and by her peers '' and a `` pillar of her family '' .
Trust chief executive Steve McManus said : `` We are deeply saddened to report the death of nurse Julie Edward who had worked at the trust since 2017 .
`` She was a much loved and valued colleague and touched on the lives of many who worked alongside her at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kindness and dedication to her job and patients was clear and she will be very sadly missed .
`` We have sent our sincere condolences to Julie 's family and offered them every support at this very difficult time . ''
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters Following Dr Tun 's death on 13 April , his son Michael said his father had complained to his manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ward .
His family said Dr Tun , 62 , who was an associate specialist in neurorehabilitation , had been in contact with five patients who had tested positive for coronavirus .

The trust has not confirmed the cause of death for either Ms Edward or Dr Tun, but a GoFundMe page states Ms Edward died on 4 May after contracting the virus.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus lockdown: Allowing family gatherings in England 'complicated'

Allowing family gatherings is an `` important public health issue '' , England 's deputy chief medical officer has said - but it is `` complicated '' to make the rules fair .
Dr Jenny Harries said such a move could provide a `` mental health boost '' .
But she said if two large families wanted to meet `` you end up effectively with quite a large gathering '' .
Some lockdown measures have been eased in England but restrictions on how many people you can meet remain in place .
Two people from different households can meet in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as long as they stay more than two metres apart .
But any larger meetings between different households at the same time are currently banned .
The UK government has said this means someone can not see both parents at the same time .
• All you need to know about new lockdown measures • Who am I allowed to meet now ?
• How many confirmed cases are there in your area ?
• Why the lockdown ended in garden centres first At the daily No 10 briefing earlier , Dr Harries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to allow different households to meet as `` bubbles '' or `` clusters '' .
She said such a move would be particularly beneficial to those `` who have been on their own or who are isolated from others '' .
But she added that any such step had to be `` fair '' and `` consistent with public health advice '' .
`` So for example if you have families with large numbers already in their families who want to meet up , you end up effectively with quite a large gathering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting .
`` I think it 's really important that we think through the implications of that , particularly across families in different circumstances .
If your family is a long way away , for example , you may be less able to do that . ''
Understandably meeting up with family is something we miss dearly .
The government has tried to offer some flexibility in England by allowing people to meet outside in twos where the risk of infection is low because of the ability to keep your distance and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But , of course , that is not the same as having people round for a Sunday lunch or visiting relatives for a weekend .
The problem the government and its advisers face is that the risk coronavirus presents differs hugely depending if you are the grandparent or grandchild .
The average 80-year-old has a nearly one in 10 chance of dying if they are infected , whereas for children the risk is virtually zero .
It 's not just about individual risk either .
A spike in infections among older people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a quarter of people over 70 who are infected need hospital treatment .
Family gatherings , involving multiple generations , where people are in close proximity , are simply too dangerous until we know more about the virus and who in particular among the older generations - and younger people with health conditions for that matter - is most at risk .
Meanwhile , Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick defended the government 's decision to allow potential home buyers to view properties in England .
The property markets in Wales , Scotland and Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's briefing , he said he had been asked why the government would allow people to `` look around a stranger 's home but not visit their loved ones or parents '' .
Mr Jenrick said he understood `` why this can seem confusing at first glance '' but said estate agents must follow new guidelines during viewings .
These include : • Physical visits by appointments only - no open house • All internal doors should be opened where possible • The current occupier should vacate the building during the viewing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And all surfaces , including door handles should be `` thoroughly cleaned '' afterwards It is estimated there are 450,000 buyers and renters with plans on hold .
Property website Zoopla previously estimated that about 373,000 property sales had been put on hold during lockdown - with a total value of £82bn .
Mr Jenrick added that it was `` essential that we cautiously open up parts of our economy where it 's safe to do so '' .
His call came as the number of people who have died after testing positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 33,186 , a rise of 494 on the previous day .
• Ministers are looking at ways to allow private prayer in places of worship before the buildings are fully opened on 4 July `` at the earliest '' • Construction site opening hours are to be extended - staying open until 21:00 BST , Monday to Saturday , subject to local authority approval , Mr Jenrick said • The government is working `` very closely with our main cultural institutions '' to see how they might reopen with social distancing in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily coronavirus testing target , with 87,063 tests on Tuesday • The prime minister has been accused of misleading MPs over advice to care homes at the start of the pandemic on controlling infections • Up to 8,000 jobs are at risk at travel firm Tui , as it pledges to `` reinvent the holiday in 2020 '' amid the pandemic • Teacher unions have warned that schools do not have adequate safety measures in place to reopen , after the government told them prepare to open for more children from 1 June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urging the government to extend the coronavirus compensation scheme for NHS and care workers who die with coronavirus to transport workers .
It comes after ticket officer Belly Mujinga died with the virus after being spat at by a member of public who claimed to have Covid-19 • A three-day-old baby died in hospital in Swansea after his mother tested positive for coronavirus , an inquest opening has heard .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?

"I think it's really important that we think through the implications of that, particularly across families in different circumstances. If your family is a long way away, for example, you may be less able to do that."


bbcuk--2020-05-14--Coronavirus: Re-starting NHS 'may take months'

Re-starting NHS services could take many months , experts say .
Everything from cancer care and routine surgery to district nursing services have been disrupted across the UK by the coronavirus pandemic .
At the end of April , ministers said it was time to restore services .
But three think tanks said reorganising services , coupled with the need for more personal protective equipment and extra cleaning , meant it would be some time before the NHS was back fully .
It comes as NHS bosses have once again urged patients to seek urgent medical treatment if they need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients who have suffered strokes and heart problems have stayed away because of fears over coronavirus .
NHS England clinical director for stroke Dr Deb Lowe said she and fellow doctors were `` really worried '' that the numbers seeking help for stroke care had gone down .
• What protective gear do NHS staff need ?
• Are these seven targets being hit ?
• Who am I allowed to meet now ?
Figures due to be published on Thursday are expected to confirm A & E attendances in England have dropped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a sample group of A & E units by Public Health England suggested visits during April , which coincided with the peak of the pandemic , were close to half the level they were before the pandemic struck .
Referrals for cancer care have also fallen , while community services have had to be scaled back as staff have been redeployed and face-to-face contact has had to be restricted .
Macmillan Cancer Support chief executive Lynda Thomas said despite urgent cancer care being prioritised during the lockdown , services were still affected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put off seeking help .
'Cancer must not become the forgotten ' C ' in this pandemic . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • STRESS : How to look after your mental health The think tanks - the Nuffield Trust , King 's Fund and Health Foundation - said restoring services was going to take time .
They warned staff were exhausted because they had been working flat out and needed time to recover .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aprons and goggles , would need to be improved and expanded , while changes would need to be made to allow for social distancing .
What is more , capacity would still need to be set aside for a second peak .
The NHS is expected to use the space at the 10 field hospitals - known as Nightingales in England - to provide some of this .
Only two of them are currently being used .
Nuffield Trust chief executive Nigel Edwards said : `` With the virus still at large there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way things were before .
`` Unfortunately that will mean people waiting much longer and some services being put on hold . ''

The NHS is expected to use the space at the 10 field hospitals - known as Nightingales in England - to provide some of this. Only two of them are currently being used.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Up to 100 children affected by rare inflammatory reaction

Up to 100 children in the UK have been affected by a rare inflammatory disease linked to coronavirus , medics say .
Some needed intensive care while others recovered quickly - but cases are extremely rare .
In April , NHS doctors were told to look out for a rare but dangerous reaction in children .
This was prompted by eight children becoming ill in London , including a 14-year-old who died .
Doctors said all eight children had similar symptoms when they were admitted to Evelina London Children 's Hospital , including a high fever , rash , red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Most of the children had no major lung or breathing problems , although seven were put on a ventilator to help improve heart and circulation issues .
Doctors are describing it as a `` new phenomenon '' similar to Kawasaki disease shock syndrome - a rare condition that mainly affects children under the age of five .
Symptoms include a rash , swollen glands in the neck and dry and cracked lips .
But this new syndrome is also affecting older children up to the age of 16 , with a minority experiencing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son had symptoms of rare syndrome' Dr Liz Whittaker , clinical lecturer in paediatric infectious diseases and immunology , at Imperial College London , said the fact that the syndrome was occurring in the middle of a pandemic , suggests the two are linked .
`` You 've got the Covid-19 peak , and then three or four weeks later we 're seeing a peak in this new phenomenon which makes us think that it 's a post-infectious phenomenon , '' she said .
This means it is likely to be something related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection .
Prof Russell Viner , president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health , said the majority of children who have had the condition have responded to treatment and are getting better and starting to go home .
The syndrome is `` exceptionally rare '' , he said .
He said understanding more about the inflammatory disease `` might explain why some children become very ill with Covid-19 , while the majority are unaffected or asymptomatic '' .
Children are thought to make up just 1-2 % of all cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 500 admissions to hospital .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
Michael Levin , professor of paediatrics and international child health at Imperial , explained that most of the children tested negative for coronavirus , but tested positive for detection of antibodies .
`` So we really think that the biology of the disease , somehow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus , '' he said .
However Prof Levin said there was `` a vast amount to learn '' about the reaction , which had only been known about for two to three weeks .
Children appear to be affected up to six weeks after they have been infected with the virus , which could explain the appearance of the new syndrome several weeks after the peak of UK cases .
There have been similar cases in the US , Spain , Italy , France and the Netherlands .
Child health experts in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something which just affects children .
They are now working with researchers in the US and across Europe to find out more about what they have called paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome or ( PIMS-TS ) .
At least 15 US states are also looking into the rare condition , according to New York governor Andrew Cuomo .
Out of 82 diagnosed cases of the inflammatory syndrome in New York , 53 children tested positive or had antibodies for Covid-19 .
California , New Jersey , Connecticut and Massachusetts are among the other states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Centers for Disease Control ( CDC ) in the US is set to issue an alert and updated definition of the syndrome to healthcare providers this week .

In antibody tests on the children, eight appeared to have already had the coronavirus while the other two had not. But the researchers said the tests were not 100% accurate. Swab tests to detect the virus are not thought to be useful because the reaction tends to occur many weeks after infection.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Spurs star Alli held at knifepoint in robbery

Tottenham and England midfielder Dele Alli was held at knifepoint during a burglary in the early hours of Wednesday morning .
Two men broke into the 24-year-old 's house in north London , where he is spending lockdown with his brother and their respective partners .
Alli was threatened and punched during the incident and suffered minor facial injuries in a scuffle .
Alli has handed CCTV footage to the police .
`` Thank you for all the messages .
Horrible experience but we 're all okay now .
Appreciate the support , '' Alli tweeted on Wednesday night .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police were called at approximately 00:35 BST on Wednesday 13 May to reports of a robbery at a residential address .
`` Two males gained entry to the property and stole items of jewellery , including watches , before fleeing .
`` Two male occupants at the property suffered minor facial injuries after being assaulted .
They did not require hospital treatment .
`` There have been no arrests .
Enquiries into the circumstances continue . ''
In March , the family of Alli 's Spurs team-mate Jan Vertonghen was robbed at knifepoint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duty .

Last updated on .From the section Tottenham
Alli has 37 England caps and was part of his country's squad at the 2018 World Cup in Russia
Tottenham and England midfielder Dele Alli was held at knifepoint during a burglary in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Two men broke into the 24-year-old's house in north London, where he is spending lockdown with his brother and their respective partners.
Alli was threatened and punched during the incident and suffered minor facial injuries in a scuffle.
The intruders stole items of jewellery including watches.
Alli has handed CCTV footage to the police.
"Thank you for all the messages. Horrible experience but we're all okay now. Appreciate the support," Alli posted on Twitter on Wednesday night. external-link
Spurs added: "We have been offering our support to Dele and those isolating with him. We encourage anyone with any information to help the police with their investigation to come forward."
A Metropolitan Police statement said: "Police were called at approximately 00:35 BST on Wednesday, 13 May to reports of a robbery at a residential address.
"Two males gained entry to the property and stole items of jewellery, including watches, before fleeing.
"Two male occupants at the property suffered minor facial injuries after being assaulted. They did not require hospital treatment.
"There have been no arrests. Enquiries into the circumstances continue."
In March, the family of Alli's Spurs team-mate Jan Vertonghen was robbed at knifepoint while he was away on Champions League duty.


bbcuk--2020-05-14--Music royalties reach a record high - but a storm is coming

Musicians and songwriters in the UK received a record amount of money last year , but the loss of live music poses a major threat to income in 2020 .
The warning was issued by PRS for Music , the body that makes sure 145,000 songwriters , composers and publishers in the UK are paid when their music is played or performed around the world .
The organisation collected a record £810m last year , a rise of 8.7 % .
But it said Covid-19 would result in an `` inevitable decline '' in 2020 and 2021 .
`` Even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we know very well that we 're in unprecedented , unpredictable times , '' chief executive Andrea Martin told the BBC .
Revenues from `` live music and public performance will be hit '' not just in 2020 but in 2021 , as international payments often take time to trickle down , she said .
`` There will be a downfall , '' she added .
`` But by how much and by what per cent ... your guess is just as good as mine . ''
PRS processed 18.8 trillion `` performances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streams , downloads , radio and TV broadcasts , and music played in pubs , clubs , hairdressers and concert venues .
UK songwriters contributed to many of the year 's most-played hits , including like Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi , Old Town Road by Lil Nas X and Do n't Call Me Up by Mabel .
Live music generated £54m in royalties , up £15m since 2018 .
Revenues were boosted by major tours from the Spice Girls , Sir Elton John , Ed Sheeran and the return of Glastonbury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But with an entire summer of festivals cancelled and dozens of major tours postponed until 2021 , that figure will be impossible to recreate in next year 's results .
Last week , UK Music revealed the contribution of live music to the UK economy is set to drop in 2020 from an estimated £1.1bn to £200m , describing it as a `` catastrophic '' blow to the industry .
Meanwhile , the Ivors Academy of songwriters and composers said it anticipated a loss of £25,000 per member over a six-month period .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ out on royalties gathered when their music is played in shops , cinemas , pubs , clubs and restaurants .
In 2019 , that figure was £168.2m .
There is some good news , however .
Royalties from music streaming rose 22.1 % to £155m , while the money generated from music on video-on-demand services like Amazon and Netflix increased 47.5 % to £17.7m .
Early figures suggest more people have taken out streaming subscriptions during the lockdown , which may provide a small counterweight to the loss of live music .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they receive from the likes of Spotify , Apple Music and Amazon is not enough to sustain a career .
Tom Gray from indie band Gomez recently shared a chart , originally compiled by The Trichordist , showing how many streams artists require to make a living in the UK .
On YouTube , a song would have to be played 7,267 times to generate £8.72 - or one hour of minimum wage .
On Spotify , the figure was 3,114 streams , and on Apple Music 1,615 streams .
That has led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeking a more equitable system of distributing streaming money .
Spearheaded by the Ivors Academy and the Musicians ' Union , it is calling for a new system , where your subscription fee is distributed to the artists you actually listen to - rather than going into a central pot , where money is split between the most-streamed songs on a percentage basis .
`` This is what the consumer wants , '' said Graham Davies of the Ivors Academy , who is calling for a government-backed review .
`` They want their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the artists , performers , songwriters and composers of the music they love . ''
In the meantime , the PRS Emergency Relief Fund has raised more than £2.1m to help members who have lost income as a result of Covid-19 .
Another £5m fund , set up by the charity Help Musicians , ran out of cash within a week after being launched in March .
Trade body UK Music has subsequently called on the government to set up a new taskforce to revive the music industry as it navigates the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

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bbcuk--2020-05-14--Coronavirus puts spotlight on landmark year for nature

The pandemic has disrupted conservation work and funding , with potential repercussions for years to come , according to conservation groups .
But we can seize the opportunity to push for stronger action to protect the natural world , say Dr Diogo Veríssimo and Dr Nisha Owen from campaign group On The Edge Conservation .
The pandemic struck in what was meant to be a landmark year for biodiversity .
New goals for protecting the natural world are due to be agreed in October .
While lockdown has been linked to a number of positive environmental changes , including wildlife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little about how large areas of the world that host vast quantities of biodiversity have been faring , said Dr Owen .
• Climate change and coronavirus : Five charts about the biggest carbon crash • Fears of spike in poaching as pandemic poverty strikes • India 's carbon emissions fall for first time in four decades '' There 's reports coming in of illegal activities happening on the ground that are not being patrolled for or monitored or counted because of the effects of coronavirus lockdown or reduced staff or reduced funds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're not going to know the scale of what that impact may have been on wildlife and biodiversity until we 're able to systematically assess that , and that 's probably not going to be until we come out of lockdown . ''
Loss of funding for conservation work is a growing concern , particularly for lesser-known endangered species , such as pangolins , which already receive a `` smaller slice of the cake '' .
`` It is not just the case that organisations in far flung places are feeling difficulties , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also a scientist at the University of Oxford .
`` It is also right here in the UK where environmental charities are being gravely affected by all the changes that Covid-19 is producing . ''
The Wildlife and Countryside Link , a coalition of more than 50 environment and wildlife groups in England , recently warned in a report that UK environment charities are facing a dramatic loss of income , which will have an impact on their ability to care for our land , protect wildlife and tackle climate change and nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It comes in what was set to be a `` Super Year for Biodiversity '' , as coined by the UN , culminating in a global biodiversity conference in October , where new goals for tackling biodiversity over the next decade were due to be drawn up .
Though the timetable has changed , this is a key opportunity for world leaders to set strong goals and highlight that biodiversity is integral to human health and well-being , and the planet that we live on , said Dr Owen .
Dr Veríssimo added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ source in a wild animal .
It 's about our relationship with nature , and how we have now put animals in contexts and situations where these types of diseases are more likely to not only cross species within wildlife but also cross to humans . ''

"We're not going to know the scale of what that impact may have been on wildlife and biodiversity until we're able to systematically assess that, and that's probably not going to be until we come out of lockdown."


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Uber and Addison Lee to install protective screens

Taxi firms Addison Lee and Uber have announced new safety measures as the government looks to ease coronavirus restrictions and people return to work .
Addison Lee will fit perspex partition screens between drivers and passengers across its 4,000 vehicles next week .
And Uber is paying the AA to install partitions in 400 cars in Newcastle , Sunderland and Durham as part of an initial pilot .
Both firms are also distributing free protective equipment to drivers .
The plans follow calls for improved protections for drivers and passengers .
`` We know there is significant demand from drivers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public for more to be done to make transport cleaner and safer as we go back to work - including calls for the introduction of partition screens into private hire vehicles , '' said Liam Griffin , chief executive of London-based taxi firm Addison Lee .
`` That 's why we have taken the decision to begin rolling out the installation of safety screens between drivers and passenger seats . ''
Ride hailing taxi app firm Uber said its pilot in the North East of England was crucial for the company to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passengers on journeys as safely as possible .
Uber is first trialling the partition screens in areas where it has been able to gain the permission of the regulator or city council , in order to ensure that the screens are installed safely .
• Coronavirus : The taxi drivers left 'desperate ' by the lockdown On Wednesday , Transport for London ( TfL ) updated its guidance for taxi and private hire vehicle firms .
The regulator is advising firms to have drivers and passengers socially distance , with passengers sitting in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advised drivers to carry a bottle of hand sanitiser gel in their vehicle that contains at least 60 % alcohol .
However , when it comes to the use of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) like face masks , gloves or partition walls , TfL said it is waiting to hear from the London Strategic Coordination Group ( SCG ) on recommendations before mandating additional coronavirus prevention and control measures for taxis and private hire vehicles .
The BBC understands that multiple taxi firms in the UK are seeking clarification from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take once the lockdown , and would prefer regulation rather than advice .
In Wales , taxi drivers told the BBC they experience anxiety with every passenger they pick up , and are still waiting for approval from their local councils before they can make any modifications to their vehicles , such as installing a screen .
`` Two months into a public health emergency which has seen private hire drivers suffer one of the highest occupational mortality rates , yet TfL and the Department for Transport ( DfT ) are still not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' James Farrar , chair of the United Private Hire Drivers union , told the BBC .
`` Poor regulatory standards and employment misclassification has become a lethal combination for desperately exploited drivers . ''
The union is similarly concerned that Uber is not providing partition screens to its drivers in other parts of the UK , such as London , which has the largest concentration of Uber drivers in the country .
Mr Farrar wants to see Uber commit to limiting bookings to no more than two passengers per vehicle , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mandatory for both drivers and passengers .
For now , there is no evidence available that demonstrates that partitions in taxis will reduce the risk of transmitting the coronavirus .
But there is some evidence that the use of cloth face coverings can help to reduce transmission of coronavirus infection where it is not possible for people to maintain a distance of 2m .
Many firms have already started distributing PPE to their drivers after hearing concerns from both drivers and passengers .
Uber has so far handed out over a million single-use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as 95,000 cleaning sprays .
And in the coming weeks , it will hand out another two million masks .
Unilever is teaming up with Uber to distribute free hygiene kits that include antibacterial spray and hand sanitiser to drivers across the UK .
`` As well as working with Unilever to provide drivers with free sanitising products , Uber is distributing millions of masks and directly reimbursing drivers if they choose to source the PPE themselves , '' an Uber spokesman told the BBC .

Although it is not making it compulsory to wear a face mask in the UK, Uber said it had distributed free protective equipment to UK drivers, including more than a million single-use face masks, as well as 95,000 cleaning sprays. In the coming weeks, it will hand out another two million masks.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: PM quizzed over 'unexplained' care home deaths

Boris Johnson must account for official figures showing 10,000 `` unexplained '' deaths in care homes last month , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said .
Sir Keir said there were 18,000 more deaths in April than the average for that month , but only 8,000 were recorded as coronavirus-related .
He said the government had been `` too slow to protect people in care homes '' .
Mr Johnson said there `` is much more to do but we are making progress '' on reducing the pandemic in care homes .
And he announced a further £600m to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The money will be funnelled through local councils to help improve infection control by measures such as reducing staff rotation between homes , increasing testing and ensuring small independent homes have access to expert advice .
Mr Johnson and Sir Keir also clashed at Prime Minister 's Questions over government advice issued at the start of the pandemic .
Sir Keir said that up until 12 March care homes were being told it was `` very unlikely '' anyone would become infected .
The prime minister said `` it was n't true @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keir wrote to the PM after the session , to accuse him of misleading MPs and asking him to return to the Commons to correct the record .
But in a letter responding to Sir Keir , Mr Johnson said he stood by his comments and accused the Labour leader of `` selectively and misleadingly '' quoting guidance from Public Health England .
The advice that was withdrawn in mid-March was based on the assumption at the time that the virus was not spreading widely in the community .
In hindsight , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus had taken hold was part of the reason the government ordered the lockdown .
At that point the advice was withdrawn .
But the large death toll in care homes is also related to what happened after that point .
Because we did not have a testing network or the right stocks of personal protective equipment care homes have undoubtedly suffered .
The NHS became the major priority and even now not all staff or residents have been tested .
The deaths being reported in care homes have also been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of weeks .
Sir Keir Starmer is right to say a large number of deaths are unaccounted for .
There are a number of possible explanations for this .
They could be coronavirus cases that have been under-reported - the lack of testing in care homes may mean doctors have missed the presence of the virus when they have filled in the death certificates .
They could be `` indirect deaths '' related to the fact that residents have been unable to get care for other conditions , such as heart disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be people who in previous years would have been taken to hospital to die but were kept in care homes - the ONS data also shows that the number of non-coronavirus deaths in hospital have actually fallen .
The guidance at the centre of the row was issued on 25 February and withdrawn on 13 March , a time when the virus was not thought to be spreading in the community .
It said : `` This guidance is intended for the current position in the UK where there is currently no transmission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is therefore very unlikely that anyone receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected . ''
The guidance went on : `` There is no need to do anything differently in any care setting at present . ''
The prime minister 's letter accused Sir Keir of `` neglecting '' to provide the context of the guidance .
In his letter to Mr Johnson , the Labour leader said : `` At this time of national crisis it is more important than ever that government ministers are accurate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added that : `` I expect you to come to the House of Commons at the earliest opportunity to correct the record . ''
In his letter to Sir Keir , Mr Johnson said he had sought engagement and consultation with opposition parties and added : `` The public expect us to work together . ''
At Prime Minister 's Questions , Mr Johnson said the government had brought in the lockdown in care homes ahead of the general lockdown but that there was `` unquestionably an appalling epidemic '' in that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of deaths in care homes had been `` too high '' , but that `` the number of outbreaks is down and the number of fatalities well down '' .
Sir Keir pointed to figures from the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) showed at least 40 % of Covid-19 deaths in England and Wales occurred in care homes .
And he quoted a cardiologist who had told the Daily Telegraph newspaper that hospitals had `` actively seeded '' the virus into the `` most vulnerable '' population by discharging `` known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes '' .
Mr Johnson said : `` The number of discharges from hospitals into care homes went down in March and April and we had a system of testing people going into care homes and that testing is now being ramped up . ''

Finally, some are likely to be people who in previous years would have been taken to hospital to die but were kept in care homes - the ONS data also shows that the number of non-coronavirus deaths in hospital have actually fallen.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus app scam warning ahead of national roll-out

Fraudsters have developed a `` worrying '' scam based on the government 's coronavirus contact tracing app , officials have warned .
The smartphone app is being trialled on the Isle of Wight and is expected to be rolled out nationwide .
People across Britain have received scam texts purportedly generated by the app , the Chartered Trading Standards Institute ( CTSI ) said .
The message links to a bogus website which asks for personal details .
The scam text reads : `` Someone who came in contact with you tested positive or has shown symptoms for Covid-19 & @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead officer Katherine Hart said she had received a scam text herself and was aware of recipients across England , Scotland and Wales .
She said : `` This worried me because at this particular time we are all at risk .
`` I am especially concerned that scams themed around the contact tracing app are already appearing , even though the official NHS app has only been released in a limited testing phase on the Isle of Wight . ''
The app records people 's proximity to other app users , allowing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On Tuesday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the app would be rolled out across England in mid-May .
It has been downloaded more than 55,000 times since it was launched on the Isle of Wight .
Ms Hart said the CTSI had detected an `` incredible surge '' in coronavirus-related fraud , ranging from fake hand sanitiser advertisements to phishing messages similar to the Isle of Wight app scam .
In April , Action Fraud , estimated coronavirus fraudsters had conned about £2m from victims .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?

"I am especially concerned that scams themed around the contact tracing app are already appearing, even though the official NHS app has only been released in a limited testing phase on the Isle of Wight."


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Buzzfeed to close UK news operation

Buzzfeed to close UK news operation

Online media firm Buzzfeed is to close its UK and Australian news operations .
The US company , which set up its London office in 2013 , said the decision had been made `` both for economic and strategic reasons '' .
Buzzfeed said it would be focusing on news that `` hits big in the United States during this difficult period '' .
Some staff will stay on to cover social news , celebrity and investigations , but it is thought about 10 jobs are affected .
BBC News media editor Amol Rajan said the affected UK staff had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ title `` did much outstanding work '' and its closure showed that the coronavirus crisis had `` claimed a high-profile journalistic institution '' .
Buzzfeed News had been a `` strong , scooping , important voice '' in UK journalism and its decision was due to the pressures on the company 's advertising-funded business model , not its work , our correspondent added .
• The Jewish Chronicle to go into liquidation Buzzfeed 's UK political editor Alex Wickham tweeted : `` So incredibly proud of the BuzzFeed UK team , which punched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some really amazing journalism . ''
Paying tribute to his colleagues , news editor Alan White posted that `` the amount of talent in that office was unreal '' .
Political correspondent Hannah Al-Othman tweeted she had `` an absolutely brilliant three years '' at the title .
`` It 's been the best job I 've ever had , and there 'll probably never be another one better , '' she added .
Guardian columnist Marina Hyde wrote that she had `` been informed and made to laugh so many times a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dedicated staff '' .
A Buzzfeed UK investigation into 14 mysterious deaths allegedly linked to Russia was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize in 2017 .
Earlier this month , the site was also the first to report on all seven of the government 's draft documents which outlined proposals for easing the UK 's coronavirus lockdown .
In a statement , Buzzfeed said it was still investing heavily in its news business and will spend about $ 10m ( £8.05m ) more than it makes from its operation this year , and about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added : `` We will be consulting with employees on our plans regarding furloughs and stand-downs '' .

Political correspondent Hannah Al-Othman tweeted she had "an absolutely brilliant three years" at the title. "It's been the best job I've ever had, and there'll probably never be another one better," she added.


bbcuk--2020-05-14--Coronavirus bubbles: How do they work and who is in yours?

`` Bubbles '' of people we can meet safely may form part of the plans to move the UK out of the coronavirus lockdown .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has set out a road map for how Britain could start easing restrictions and this 50-page document includes the possibility of widening our `` social bubbles '' .
A bubble is defined as a group of people with whom you have close physical contact .
Coronavirus spreads when people mix - be it at work , in shops , pubs and clubs , or on buses and trains .
In lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , people have been asked actively to avoid anyone who is not in their household and stay at home .
Limiting our interactions with others is our best defence against coronavirus .
The virus is transmitted by droplets from infected people when they talk , cough and sneeze .
These can enter the body through the eyes , nose and mouth , either directly or after touching a contaminated object .
Who should be in my bubble ?
It depends on your own health risk if you were to catch coronavirus , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you live with .
People most at risk of needing hospital treatment if they catch coronavirus are being asked to stay at home and shield .
That means they should not go out , even to shop for food or collect medicines .
The only people in their social bubble will be the people they live with and any carers who need to visit .
If you live with someone who is shielding , but do not need to shield yourself , you can go out to shop and take exercise but should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are out , which means keeping 2m ( 6ft ) away from other people .
From Wednesday , 13 May , people in England are being told they can start to meet one other person from a different household outdoors .
This is outside your bubble - you will still need to follow social distancing guidelines and keep 2m apart when you meet .
The government has asked the independent advisory group Sage to examine if , when and how people might safely be allowed to expand their bubble to include a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ example .
That could let people who are currently living on their own have some more social contact .
Members of a bubble would be able to visit one another in their homes .
But it would still be important to limit the risk of chains of transmission .
If Household A merges with Household B , Household B could not also link up with another group - Household C - because this would create a chain that could allow the virus to spread widely .
The bubble concept is already being used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Scottish government .
How to keep your bubble safe Continue to stay 2m away from anyone outside your bubble .
Wash and dry your hands when you return to your bubble and keep up good hygiene and cleaning practices when you 're at home .
If anyone in your bubble develops coronavirus symptoms , everyone in the bubble would need to self-isolate .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?

If you were part of a temporary extended household during the firebreak period, or were in one before that, you can make a new bubble, instead. However, once you have agreed and joined that new extended household, neither household can leave to form a new one.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: What's the risk on public transport?

Since the UK went into lockdown , there have been reduced services on trains , buses and planes , and the government has advised against all but essential travel .
Now , with restrictions being eased in England , more people are being encouraged back to work .
The government says they should avoid public transport and walk , cycle or drive instead .
But if they ca n't , what are the risks of taking the bus or train ?
How safe are train and bus travel ?
A lot of the potential risk of infection on trains and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and so how far away you can keep from other people .
This applies both on the vehicles and at stops and stations , and will vary in different parts of the country and on different routes .
Ventilation also plays an important role as fresh air can help droplets containing the virus dissipate faster , so being able to open a window can be an advantage .
Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs , sneezes or exhales small droplets packed with the virus into the air .
These droplets can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nose and mouth , either directly or after touching a contaminated object .
The government 's consistent message has been to stay 2m ( more than 6ft ) apart from people outside your household .
Previous research has suggested a link between commuting on the London Underground and the likelihood of catching respiratory illnesses .
Dr Lara Gosce , at the Institute of Global Health , says her research ( published in 2018 ) showed people who used the Underground regularly were more likely to suffer flu-like symptoms .
`` Particularly , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - where inhabitants are forced to change line one or more times when travelling on the Underground - have higher rates of influenza-like diseases , compared to well-served boroughs where passengers reach their destination by one direct trip , '' she said .
If you 're travelling on a relatively empty train or bus , though , your risks would be different .
How long you spend on transport will also play a role - spending more time in contact , and coming into contact with more people will increase your risk .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ close contacts with potentially infected individuals and objects is important , '' according to Dr Gosce .
`` In terms of travel , avoid peak hours if possible , '' she says , suggesting , where viable , passengers should choose routes involving only one means of transport .
What is the advice for passengers ?
The government says people should `` consider all other forms of transport before using public transport '' .
If they ca n't walk , cycle or drive to their destination , they are advised to : • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of changes • Wait for other passengers to get off before boarding • Keep 2m away from people `` where possible '' • Wash their hands for at least 20 seconds after completing their journey The government acknowledges that there may be situations where people ca n't keep 2m away from each other , such as at busy times or getting on or off public transport .
In these cases , the advice is to avoid physical contact and face away from others .
Governments in England , Scotland and Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coverings on public transport .
The Welsh government has said people can choose to wear them , but adds the evidence is `` not strong enough '' to make them mandatory .
Face coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission in some circumstances .
In particular , they are to stop the wearer passing on coronavirus , rather than protecting them from others .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : How many cases in your area ?
Transport networks around the country are enhancing their safety measures to protect staff and passengers .
Arriva Buses is only accepting contactless payment and will no longer give change for cash payments .
Transport for London is installing hand sanitisers at all tube , rail and bus stations and has introduced a rigorous cleaning schedule .
It says it will only be able to carry 13-15 % of its normal number of passengers on the Underground and buses .
On Wednesday morning , national rail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared with the same time last week .
London 's Tube saw a 7.3 % rise , with 83,293 journeys by 10am .
But this was a fraction of normal passenger volume , which saw 1.2m journeys by 10am on the same day last year .
What is the situation around the UK ?
People in England who are allowed to return to work have been asked not to use public transport if possible .
People in Wales have been told to avoid it .
where possible .
Limited public transport services are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to get to work and the situation is similar in Northern Ireland .

This is a significant number of people who are less likely to become seriously ill if they catch coronavirus. There's also increasing evidence vaccinated people are less likely to pass the virus on.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Evening update as UK faces 'significant recession'

Here are five things you need to know about the coronavirus outbreak this Wednesday evening .
We 'll have another update for you on Thursday morning .
Figures show the UK economy shrank at the fastest pace since the 2008 financial crisis in the first three months of 2020 , and economists expect an even bigger slump is to come .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak warned it is likely to be a `` significant recession '' .
In England , one aspect of the economy - the property market - has been released from some elements of the lockdown .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving all internal doors open .
Some people in England who could n't work from home have returned to their workplaces , as a slight ease in lockdown measures comes in .
The government had urged people to avoid public transport if at all possible , but some commuters said buses and trains were still too crowded to enable them to observe social-distancing rules .
So what 's the risk on public transport ?
There 's also still a difference between England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland - leading to some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nations .
An alliance of nine teaching unions has called on the government to delay plans for a phased return of primary school pupils in England on 1 June .
The government has warned against scaremongering by the group , which said `` classrooms of four and five-year olds could become sources of Covid-19 transmission and spread '' .
But how might social distancing work in schools ?
Jemma was in the middle of a hairdressing apprenticeship when the coronavirus pandemic hit .
The 16-year-old was let go by the salon , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a job , but also no qualification .
History shows that young people like her are usually hardest hit following a recession .
For lower-skilled young adults , the Resolution Foundation warns the chances of getting a job will be reduced by a third as `` the first rung of the ladder appears to be broken '' .
It recommends one way to ride out a financial crisis is to stay on in education .
5 .
'There 's never any bloodshed' For many people , spending more time within the same four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the challenges of lockdown .
But the Shaw family in Mapperley , Nottingham - all 14 of them - say life is `` calmer and more sedate '' , although trips to the supermarket have proven trickier .
Get a longer coronavirus briefing from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning , by signing up here .
You can find more information , advice and guides on our coronavirus page and get all the latest via our live page .
As England eases its lockdown on Wednesday , what are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you have about coronavirus ?
In some cases , your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

Jemma was in the middle of a hairdressing apprenticeship when the coronavirus pandemic hit. The 16-year-old was let go by the salon, and now not only does she not have a job, but also no qualification. History shows that young people like her are usually hardest hit following a recession. For lower-skilled young adults, the Resolution Foundation warns the chances of getting a job will be reduced by a third as "the first rung of the ladder appears to be broken". It recommends one way to ride out a financial crisis is to stay on in education.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: What powers do the police have?

Boris Johnson has changed the lockdown rules in England , allowing people to spend more time outdoors .
The devolved administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland set their own separate rules for managing the threat of coronavirus - but in each part of the UK , the police must enforce them .
What powers do police have ?
Police have wide-ranging powers to help fight coronavirus , by enforcing the lockdown .
The three key tools they have been given are : • Detaining someone to be tested if they are believed to be infectious • Being able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses • Restricting someone 's right to move around or be part of a gathering These powers came into force without a vote in each part of the UK following orders made by ministers .
They could create these regulations without debate because their respective parliament or assembly had earlier given them the power to do so .
• English regulations are here and here • Main Welsh regulations are here and here How can police enforce the lockdown ?
It is against the law in every part of the UK to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without reasonable excuse '' , or to be part of a public gathering .
If someone refuses to follow the regulations - for instance a request to break up a barbecue and go home - officers can give them an on-the-spot fine .
In England those fines now start at £100 for a first offence - reduced to £50 if paid promptly - through to a maximum of £3,200 .
They are lower in the rest of the UK .
Police could ultimately charge anyone , anywhere in the UK , with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power would lead to court , possible conviction - and therefore a criminal record - and even greater fines .
The police can not , however , enforce social distancing of two metres because this has not been written into the law .
The latest instructions to officers from the College of Policing for England and Wales says : `` Officers should only enforce the Health Protection Regulations - government guidance is not enforceable , for example two-metre distancing , avoiding public transport or the wearing of face coverings in enclosed spaces .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave home ?
If you are stopped , police need to know that you have a `` reasonable excuse '' to be outside .
The law in each part of the UK has never been clear on what this absolutely means .
It only gave examples , such as : • Exercise , including with members of the same household • Travelling to and from necessary work • Providing care to someone who is vulnerable The law stresses that if you 're on your own property , including a yard , garage or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live , the police have no power to tell you what to do , unless you 're having a gathering that 's breaking the lockdown .
How are the rules and advice different across the UK ?
In England , there has now been a big legal change .
It is now a reasonable excuse to be outside for recreation or exercise with one other person who does n't live with you .
So , you could meet a friend or relative for a bike ride , walk or visit to a public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you stay 2m ( 6ft ) apart at all times - without fear of being questioned by the police .
This rule has not been changed in other parts of the UK - so the police could still fine you in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland for chatting with a friend while feeding the ducks .
Mr Johnson also said people would now be allowed to drive to other locations to take `` more and even unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise '' .
Confusingly , unlimited exercise was never actually banned in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales did initially ban exercising more than once a day before lifting it - and its police are still being asked to ensure people are n't travelling far from home .
Mr Johnson has also said it would be a reasonable excuse to be outside to sunbathe - although there has never been a legal ban on sunbathing in any part of the UK .
It means that police in England will no longer be considering whether to order people to move on if they are snoozing in the sun .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread the virus , and does not consider it a reasonable excuse to be outside .
So someone basking on the English side of the River Tweed would n't be fined by the police - but someone on the opposite Scottish bank might be .
In all parts of the UK , gatherings of more than two people from different households - be they in public or on private land - remain banned .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Can police stop travel from one part of the UK to the other ?
This is a moot point .
The ban on holidays and staying away from home remains in force - but the prime minister says you can travel .
However , he has no say over how the coronavirus regulations should be enforced by police outside England .
If a family from Bristol drives about 70 miles , within England , for a day 's country walking on Exmoor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would now be stopped along the way by Avon and Somerset Police .
But if the same family drives a similar distance to the Brecon Beacons in Wales , they run the risk of arrest .
This is not hypothetical .
South Wales Police has already announced that four people from England are to appear in court for travelling to paraglide off Nash Point in Glamorgan .
`` Anyone who travels into Wales will be subject to Welsh legislation , '' said Assistant Chief Constable Andy Valentine .
`` Travelling into Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excuse , is not permitted , and I appeal for the support of people living in England . ''
Front-line police may need to work very hard to decide whether someone is wilfully breaking the rules , has a genuine defence or has misunderstood them because of the differences across the UK .
Officers across all four parts of the UK have been told by their chiefs to follow `` Four Es '' : • Engage with people - ask them why they are out • Explain the law and if necessary set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be inside , stressing the risks to public health • Encourage them to go home if they have no reasonable excuse • Enforce only as a last resort But John Apter , the national chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales - which represents ordinary beat officers - said Mr Johnson 's plans could be difficult to enforce .
And Gwent 's Police and Crime Commissioner , Jeff Cuthbert , predicted the prime minister 's message would cause confusion .

Coronavirus: What powers do police have if people break Covid rules? Published 12 January 2021
Image source, Getty Images
The police's role in the coronavirus pandemic is simple: to ensure we follow national lockdown restrictions.
But in practice, that is a huge challenge for officers who are being asked to monitor behaviour that, until March last year, was perfectly legal.
How do police enforce Covid rules?
Police chiefs have followed a system called "The Four Es". Before fines are issued to rule-breakers, police will first:
Engage with people, to ask why they appear to be breaking the rules
Explain the law, stressing the risks to public health and the NHS
Encourage them to change their behaviour
The fourth "E" is "Enforce" by issuing penalty notices, as a last resort.
Covid rule-breakers are now "increasingly likely" to be fined by officers, the Metropolitan Police commissioner Dame Cressida Dick has said.
What are the fines for breaking Covid rules?
The police have a legal duty to make sure the rules are enforced, alongside council, environmental health and trading standards officers.
If you break coronavirus regulations, you could get a fixed penalty notice , the Covid equivalent of a traffic offence like speeding.
Since March, 32,000 have been issued in England and Wales. Penalties rose sharply during England's November lockdown. Almost 6,500 penalty tickets were handed out as police moved more quickly to enforcement.
In England and Northern Ireland fines start at £200. Fines start at £60 in Wales, and in Scotland, although this is reduced to £30 if paid within 28 days.
Large parties can also be shut down by the police - with fines of up to £10,000.
In extreme circumstances, you could be prosecuted and face an even greater fine imposed by a court.
Image source, West Midlands Police Image caption, Hundreds of people were caught on a drone camera at an illegal party by West Midlands Police
Can police fine me for being in the street?
Yes. All of England is now in a "tier four" national lockdown, with similar measures in place across the rest of the UK.
Under the new lockdown law, you must stay at home unless you have a "reasonable excuse" to be outside. Your home includes property such as a garden, shed or garage - and also access to it.
The government's lockdown guidance sets out examples of reasonable excuses. Police won't fine you for leaving home to go shopping for essential goods, or to use a business that can remain open, or for going to work or education, training or childcare.
There are other reasonable excuses - such as helping other people in their moment of need. Police chiefs are telling frontline officers to use their judgement if they come across a situation not defined in the regulations.
If you want to take part in a protest, the law does not define that as a reasonable excuse to leave home. There is, however, an exception for joining a picket as part of lawful industrial action.
Will police arrest me for exercising?
Exercise is one of the reasonable excuses for being outside in a public space. You cannot be fined for exercising.
But there has been enormous confusion since last March over how long people could exercise for. Cabinet Minister Michael Gove pronounced that spring that he thought half an hour was enough.
There are also questions over how far you can go to exercise. Boris Johnson has been criticised for travelling seven miles from Downing Street to go cycling during lockdown.
There are no restrictions in law in England on how you exercise and for how long. You cannot exercise in groups, but you can run or go on a wander with someone else from your household, support bubble or one person you don't live with.
The government's Covid guidance for exercise explains that law - and mixes it with a non-legal recommendation to only go out once a day - and to stay local.
It says local "means stay in the village, town, or part of the city where you live", but that has no legal force.
Image source, Getty Images
Derbyshire Police have been taking the "stay local" principle seriously. Officers have issued tickets to people who drive five miles to their local beauty spot - including two women accused of an illegal picnic because they were carrying takeaway cups of tea.
Will the police fine me for mingling?
They might. This refers to the ban on "gatherings".
The last-but-one version of the restrictions made it a potential crime to "mingle". That language has now gone from the law - but the rules are far stricter.
While the law in England doesn't criminalise bumping into someone in the street, you can no longer meet anyone socially - other than those in your household, support bubble or people you care for.
How likely am I to be fined?
The Home Office has given the police an extra £30m to pay for Covid patrols in England and Wales.
Over Christmas there were more than 800 fines for what Home Secretary Priti Patel says were "egregious" breaches of the rules.
The National Police Chiefs' Council hasn't abandoned the Four Es - but expect more fines and more officers asking people what they are doing.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Police patrols were stepped up around the Scotland-England border around Christmas
For instance, the Metropolitan Police has told officers to issue fines "more quickly" to anyone committing obvious, wilful and serious breaches.
Derbyshire Police, who famously put a drone up over hikers in the first lockdown, has issued a similar warning.
Can police make me cover my face?
Yes - while in shops and on public transport. You could face a fixed penalty notice if you don't.
Image source, Reuters
Can police check whether I'm isolating?
If you have returned from an overseas Covid hotspot, or have been told by the NHS Test and Trace system to stay at home, you must quarantine for 10 days.


bbcuk--2020-05-12--Coronavirus information: What should I do now?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced new lockdown rules to help tackle the coronavirus emergency in England .
Scotland , @ @ @ @ @ their own powers over the lockdown and while some advice is common across the board @ @ @ @ @ measures to the same extent .
How can I help to slow the spread of @ @ @ @ @ to make your own face mask How can I try to stay well ?
What @ @ @ @ @ what should I do if I feel unwell ?
Follow this link for more detailed @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus cases • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• NEW RESTRICTIONS @ @ @ @ @ • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own powers over coronavirus rules and guidance, which may differ to government advice for England. But here's a reminder of the basic steps to keeping yourself and others safe.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus lockdown: Am I allowed to move house?

England 's property market has been released from some elements of the lockdown .
Many in the housing sector anticipate a surge in moving from pent-up demand .
However , strict guidelines are still in place covering every aspect of buying , selling , and renting .
For now , the property markets in Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland remain shut .
But if you 're moving house in England , what do the changes mean for you in practice ?
The first property viewing will not be in person , but online .
Virtual viewings have become more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open house viewings will not return for a while .
When prospective buyers and tenants want to inspect a property in real life , government guidance states only one household should be shown around at a time .
Internal doors should stay open , or door handles wiped down along with other surfaces after each visit .
Washing facilities should be offered , towels washed , and visitors could bring their own hand sanitiser .
• Moving home allowed as curbs lift on estate agents in England Current residents are encouraged to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place .
If anyone involved - including the current residents - are symptomatic , self-isolating , or shielding , then it should not take place , the guidance says .
An estate or letting agent should no longer drive anyone to a property , and must stay 2m ( 6ft ) away from clients during the viewing .
Can my landlord evict me now ?
Protections for tenants were put in place when general restrictions on movement were introduced .
Ongoing evictions have been suspended , and there has been a temporary ban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until 30 September , most landlords will not be able to start eviction proceedings unless they have given tenants three months ' notice .
Those rules still stand , even though landlords can now start showing prospective tenants around again .
Social landlords and housing associations have been told to make sure tenants are not put under undue pressure to move .
Policies on returning keys , inspections , and tenancy sign-ups also need to be updated so they meet social distancing requirements .
Can I move in with someone new ?
Many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a partner , or rent a home with new housemates , who are currently in different households .
Clearly , that means members of two households getting together , but the government says it is permitted .
The important caveat is that it should be delayed if anyone in either household is showing symptoms .
Any period of self-isolation should also be completed by the last member of either original household before people move in together , or join a houseshare .
Will I have to move my own belongings ?
No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to operate more widely , but with some restrictions .
People should clean their belongings before asking movers and packers to handle them .
They should also keep their doors open , and offer washing facilities to the removals team but should not offer any refreshments .
Any removal workers with even the mildest symptoms should not work , while if someone in the home is symptomatic the move should be delayed .
Removal staff should also operate a `` buddy '' system , so the same pairs carry bulky furniture or equipment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is always the option of moving your belongings yourself .
Buyers often send in surveyors , builders and other experts to inspect a property before making an offer .
They will have to practise social distancing as well .
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
What will this mean for house prices ?
As always , that is a very difficult question to answer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ depending on the area and its local economy .
Many commentators expect prices to fall sharply in the short-term , but recover fairly quickly .
It is clear many people face an uncertain outlook for their jobs and income , particularly first-time buyers .
This is likely to lead to more haggling over house prices , and the possibility of lower demand from potential buyers in the medium term until they are sure their jobs are safe .
Uncertainty tends to make prices more volatile , but it makes predictions trickier too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to read at the moment , and will depend on the area , the type of property , and the financial situation of the landlord .

Antibodies test A medical test that can show if a person has had the coronavirus and now has some immunity. The test detects antibodies in the blood, which are produced by the body to fight off the disease.
Asymptomatic Someone who has a disease but does not have any of the symptoms it causes. Some studies suggest some people with coronavirus carry the disease but don't show the common symptoms, such as a persistent cough or high temperature.
Containment phase The first part of the UK's strategy to deal with the coronavirus, which involved trying to identify infected people early and trace anyone who had been in close contact with them.
Coronavirus One of a group of viruses that can cause severe or mild illness in humans and animals. The coronavirus currently sweeping the world causes the disease Covid-19. The common cold and influenza (flu) are other types of coronaviruses.
Covid-19 The disease caused by the coronavirus first detected in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. It primarily affects the lungs.
Delay phase The second part of the UK's strategy to deal with the coronavirus, in which measures such as social distancing are used to delay its spread.
Fixed penalty notice A fine designed to deal with an offence on the spot, instead of in court. These are often for driving offences, but now also cover anti-social behaviour and breaches of the coronavirus lockdown.
Flatten the curve Health experts use a line on a chart to show numbers of new coronavirus cases. If a lot of people get the virus in a short period of time, the line might rise sharply and look a bit like a mountain. However, taking measures to reduce infections can spread cases out over a longer period and means the "curve" is flatter. This makes it easier for health systems to cope.
Flu Short for influenza, a virus that routinely causes disease in humans and animals, in seasonal epidemics.
Furlough Supports firms hit by coronavirus by temporarily helping pay the wages of some staff. It allows employees to remain on the payroll, even though they aren't working.
Herd immunity How the spread of a disease slows after a sufficiently large proportion of a population has been exposed to it.
Immune A person whose body can withstand or fend off a disease is said to be immune to it. Once a person has recovered from the disease caused by the coronavirus, Covid-19, for example, it is thought they cannot catch it again for a certain period of time.
Incubation period The period of time between catching a disease and starting to display symptoms.
Intensive care Hospital wards which treat patients who are very ill. They are run by specially-trained healthcare staff and contain specialist equipment.
Lockdown Restrictions on movement or daily life, where public buildings are closed and people told to stay at home. Lockdowns have been imposed in several countries as part of drastic efforts to control the spread of the coronavirus.
Mitigation phase The third part of the UK's strategy to deal with the coronavirus, which will involve attempts to lessen the impact of a high number of cases on public services. This could mean the NHS halting all non-critical care and police responding to major crimes and emergencies only.
NHS 111 The NHS's 24-hour phone and online service, which offers medical advice to anyone who needs it. People in England and Wales are advised to ring the service if they are worried about their symptoms. In Scotland, they should check NHS inform, then ring their GP in office hours or 111 out of hours. In Northern Ireland, they should call their GP.
Outbreak Multiple cases of a disease occurring rapidly, in a cluster or different locations.
Pandemic An epidemic of serious disease spreading rapidly in many countries simultaneously.
Phase 2 This is when the UK will start to lift some of its lockdown rules while still trying to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
PPE PPE, or personal protective equipment, is clothing and kit such as masks, aprons, gloves and goggles used by medical staff, care workers and others to protect themselves against infection from coronavirus patients and other people who might be carrying the disease.
Quarantine The isolation of people exposed to a contagious disease to prevent its spread.
R0 R0, pronounced "R-naught", is the average number of people who will catch the disease from a single infected person. If the R0 of coronavirus in a particular population is 2, then on average each case will create two more new cases. The value therefore gives an indication of how much the infection could spread.
Recession This happens when there is a significant drop in income, jobs and sales in a country for two consecutive three-month periods.
Sars Severe acute respiratory syndrome, a type of coronavirus that emerged in Asia in 2003.
Self-isolation Staying inside and avoiding all contact with other people, with the aim of preventing the spread of a disease.
Social distancing Keeping away from other people, with the aim of slowing down transmission of a disease. The government advises not seeing friends or relatives other than those you live with, working from home where possible and avoiding public transport.
State of emergency Measures taken by a government to restrict daily life while it deals with a crisis. This can involve closing schools and workplaces, restricting the movement of people and even deploying the armed forces to support the regular emergency services.
Statutory instrument These can be used by government ministers to implement new laws or regulations, or change existing laws. They are an easier alternative to passing a full Act of Parliament.
Symptoms Any sign of disease, triggered by the body's immune system as it attempts to fight off the infection. The main symptoms of the coronavirus are a fever, dry cough and shortness of breath.
Vaccine A treatment that causes the body to produce antibodies, which fight off a disease, and gives immunity against further infection.
Ventilator A machine that takes over breathing for the body when disease has caused the lungs to fail.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: How to wear a face covering?

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

Wearing a face covering or homemade face mask is now mandatory in many places such as on public transport.
This is to reduce the chances of coronavirus being spread.
But if you wear your face covering incorrectly, you could actually be putting yourself more at risk.
Here the BBC's Health Correspondent Laura Foster and Tobias Chapple explain how to wear your homemade mask correctly.
Video by: Tobias Chapple, Laura Foster, Terry Saunders


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: The funeral director storing hundreds of bodies in the crisis

The increase in deaths caused by Covid-19 has led to a shortage of space in some mortuaries and delays to @ @ @ @ @ been filming the distressing story of one funeral director who has taken extraordinary measures to @ @ @ @ @ bodies .
Dean Floyd , of Floyd & Son in Essex , has bought refrigerated @ @ @ @ @ his premises to take care of the dead .

The increase in deaths caused by Covid-19 has led to a shortage of space in some mortuaries and delays to funerals.
BBC Panorama has been filming the distressing story of one funeral director who has taken extraordinary measures to provide storage for hundreds of bodies.
Dean Floyd, of Floyd & Son in Essex, has bought refrigerated containers and converted most of his premises to take care of the dead.
Watch more personal stories during the coronavirus outbreak: Your Coronavirus Stories


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Robert Jenrick defends government decision to reopen housing market

The communities minister has defended government plans to reopen the housing market in England , on the first day the @ @ @ @ @ eased .
Speaking at the Downing Street briefing , Robert Jenrick said he understood why @ @ @ @ @ at first glance '' when the public had been separated from family members .
He @ @ @ @ @ first instance '' viewings should happen virtually and that there was `` a clear plan @ @ @ @ @ everybody involved in the property '' .

The communities minister has defended government plans to reopen the housing market in England, on the first day the country's lockdown measures are eased.
Speaking at the Downing Street briefing, Robert Jenrick said he understood why it may seem "confusing at first glance" when the public had been separated from family members.
He added that "in the first instance" viewings should happen virtually and that there was "a clear plan to ensure the safety of everybody involved in the property".


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Drive-by Milton Keynes celebration after woman's cancer all-clear

A Wizard of Oz fan 's friends and family have held a `` drive-by celebration '' after she was cleared @ @ @ @ @ , 52 , underwent months of hospital treatment with minimal contact from relatives because of @ @ @ @ @ left her home in Milton Keynes to post a letter and was surprised when a @ @ @ @ @ people in fancy dress appeared on the opposite side of her street .
She said @ @ @ @ @ absolutely amazing .
I just cried and cried and cried .
You 're part of @ @ @ @ @ I think that 's what I found really emotional . ''

A Wizard of Oz fan's friends and family have held a "drive-by celebration" after she was cleared of cancer.
Katherine Grant, 52, underwent months of hospital treatment with minimal contact from relatives because of precautions against coronavirus.
She left her home in Milton Keynes to post a letter and was surprised when a procession of decorated cars and people in fancy dress appeared on the opposite side of her street.
She said: "It was just absolutely amazing. I just cried and cried and cried. You're part of everyone's thoughts, and I think that's what I found really emotional."


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Norwich buskers switch to live streams for coronavirus lockdown

Some buskers in the city of Norwich say they have turned to live-streaming services so they can continue to share @ @ @ @ @ during the coronavirus pandemic .
Websites such as Twitch and Patreon allow musicians to earn @ @ @ @ @ who are enjoying their work .
Musician Jade Murray said : `` If anybody is @ @ @ @ @ at all , now is the best time to start . ''
However , another @ @ @ @ @ said he plans to play back on the streets once the risks start to subside @ @ @ @ @ element of risk , being a busker .
You never know who 's going to @ @ @ @ @ a sitting duck , '' he said .

Some buskers in the city of Norwich say they have turned to live-streaming services so they can continue to share their music and earn money during the coronavirus pandemic.
Websites such as Twitch and Patreon allow musicians to earn money and chat with users who are enjoying their work.
Musician Jade Murray said: "If anybody is thinking about doing any live-streaming at all, now is the best time to start."
However, another busker, Peter Turrell, said he plans to play back on the streets once the risks start to subside.
"There is an element of risk, being a busker. You never know who's going to walk past and you're a sitting duck," he said.
Video by Charlotte Ball


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Newspaper headlines: Antibody test 'approved' and care home criticism

A coronavirus antibody test has been approved by Public Health England for the first time , according to the Daily @ @ @ @ @ the news as a `` breakthrough '' which could be key to easing lockdown restrictions @ @ @ @ @ that the Department of Health is in negotiations with Roche , the Swiss health company @ @ @ @ @ the kits .

On its front page, the Daily Mirror says freezing the pay of the doctors and nurses on the coronavirus frontline would amount to a "betrayal of our NHS heroes". In its editorial, the paper says such a move would be "scandalous" and the government has to learn the lessons of the 2008 crash by ensuring the cost of rebuilding the economy doesn't fall on the people who can afford it least.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--A third of Covid-19 intensive care patients do not recover, study shows

A third of coronavirus patients admitted to Scotland 's intensive care units ( ICU ) did not recover , a new NHS study has found .
The report into 472 patients admitted up to 2 May revealed 32.9 % died there , 44.1 % recovered and were discharged and the rest were still in intensive care .
Men made up nearly 75 % of the people in ICU with Covid-19 , it also revealed .
The groups with the highest number of admissions include older people and those living in areas of deprivation .
• What is intensive care and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate twice as high in poorest areas The Scottish Intensive Care Society Audit Group study looked at 472 adult ICU patients with confirmed Covid-19 infections between 1 March and 2 May .
The study 's ICU mortality rate of 32.9 % for Covid-19 patients is higher than normal death rates for critical care settings .
In 2018 , 18 % of all Scottish patients admitted to ICU and combined units died in hospital .
A similar study of coronavirus ICU patients in the rest of the UK has found 46.8 % died where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 May , there were 25 Covid-19 admissions per 100,000 population for those aged 60 to 69-years-old .
By comparison , there were 3.6 admissions per 100,000 in the 16 to 49-years-old category .
The study found the average survival rate , when measured at 30 days after ICU admission , was 60 % but there were big differences by age category and whether a person needed advanced respiratory support or not .
For those aged 70 years or older , the 30-day survival was 42.3 % compared with 79.3 % for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The number of people in Scotland 's intensive care units has been decreasing in recent weeks as this graph shows .

The study found the average survival rate, when measured at 30 days after ICU admission, was 60% but there were big differences by age category and whether a person needed advanced respiratory support or not.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Nightingale hospital in NI being stood down

The Nightingale Hospital in Northern Ireland is to be temporarily stood down , the health minister has said .
Belfast City Hospital 's tower block was turned into a 230-bed unit for critically-ill patients last month .
Nightingale hospitals are non-permanent facilities that were set up across the UK to deal with the expected surge in coronavirus patients .
Robin Swann said the hospital could still be used , if modelling suggested a second wave of the virus .
Speaking at the executive 's daily press conference on Wednesday , Northern Ireland 's Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital as `` significant '' .
`` The threat of our health service being overwhelmed was real - make no mistake about that . ''
He said the number of people requiring critical care in Northern Ireland had fallen to a `` low surge '' level , but that the situation was fragile .
`` We have to be ready to scale back up the services in critical care if that is required , '' added Dr McBride .
Earlier in May , the British government said the Nightingale Hospital in London was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ admit patients .
Mr Swann was asked how much of the Nightingale 's 230-bed capacity was used during the peak of the outbreak , and Robin Swann replied that at one stage there were `` over 30 occupants in ICU beds '' in the hospital .
He said the Nightingale had been `` a key strategic tool '' in tackling Covid-19 , adding there had been a `` concerted effort across Northern Ireland and it worked well '' .
Mr Swann said it was `` testimony '' to the work of staff at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now in a position to stand it down .
Mr Swann also outlined how his department is working to increase support for the care home sector .
Almost half of Covid-19 deaths have been recorded so far in Northern Ireland 's care homes , but residents and staff are only tested where there is a suspected outbreak , or if they are new entrants to the care home sector .
There are 75 confirmed outbreaks of the virus in care homes , with a further 35 suspected outbreaks .
In other developments on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says the NI Executive 's five-step plan for easing lockdown will hopefully be implemented `` long before '' December • Premiership clubs in NI will hold a meeting later to discuss the outcome of the season after the NI Executive 's planned return of sport • There will be a three-month suspension on the recovery of benefit overpayments and loan repayments , the Department for Communities has announced • A fund for artists and performers financially affected by the outbreak has had to close temporarily due to a high level of demand • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at whether homeschooling during the pandemic is working for all children Mr Swann rejected suggestions that care homes had been `` forgotten '' about during the pandemic , and pointed to a mobile testing service for care homes that began this week , operated by the NI Ambulance Service .
The minister said up to 40 health and social care nurses are being deployed to support testing - this will be integrated into the support teams currently in place .
Homes are also asked to check staff and residents twice a day for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in people in care homes may be atypical .
That testing will be extended into supported living , the minister added .
The minister is also actively considering more financial support for care homes , after a £6.5m fund for the sector was announced last month .
The Stormont Executive is expected to focus on the issue of supporting care homes and staff during the pandemic at its meeting on Thursday .
As well as thanking staff , Mr Swann said the social care sector had been `` struggling for years and as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
Dr McBride said routine health services had been paused while the system focused its efforts on tackling the virus , and work would now take place to restart those services - but stressed that the threat of the virus has not subsided .
`` The real work has only just begun , '' he said .
`` The fight back must continue every day and you and I need to work together , to look out for each other . ''
On Wednesday , a further two coronavirus-related deaths were reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , taking its total , mostly comprising of hospital deaths , to 449 .
One of the deaths happened since Tuesday , while the other occurred earlier but has now been added to the department 's figures .
The death toll is likely to be higher when all deaths in the community are recorded .
Across the UK , 494 more people have died bringing the death toll up to 33,186 , while in the Republic of Ireland , 10 more people have died with Covid-19 bringing the total death toll to 1,497 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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

Mr Swann was asked how much of the Nightingale's 230-bed capacity was used during the peak of the outbreak, and Robin Swann replied that at one stage there were "over 30 occupants in ICU beds" in the hospital.


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: DWP tells Welsh staff to use English test centres

People working for a UK government department in Wales have been told to drive to coronavirus test centres in England if they show symptoms .
In a letter seen by the BBC , Department for Work and Pensions staff are told testing in Wales is prioritised for other critical workers .
It says anyone with symptoms should go to `` a test site in England '' .
It says access to tests for staff `` is proving to be more of a challenge '' than in England and Scotland .
The letter suggests workers do not currently have access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Welsh Government has been asked to comment .
The DWP is the UK 's biggest public service department , with staff listed as critical workers in England and Wales .
It has various offices in Wales - with up to 1,700 staff set to relocate to a new headquarters in Rhondda Cynon Taff in 2021 .
Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd Helen Mary Jones called it `` absurd '' and said it `` defies logic '' .
The letter goes on to state the message should be shared among staff in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expectations from colleagues there , but also to let them know that we are working hard to try to resolve the issue '' .
The message also says : • Although DWP colleagues are listed as critical workers in Wales , they do not have priority access to testing arranged by the Welsh Government • The Welsh Government is prioritising access for tests to health and social care workers , police , fire service and prison workers • Where colleagues in Wales have Covid-19 symptoms and can travel safely to a test site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do • Work is ongoing to resolve the problem and staff will be told when the situation changes Ms Jones called on the Welsh Government to use its excess testing capacity for key workers .
She said : `` In Wales the message is clear - stay as close to your home as possible .
`` However , if you 're a DWP colleague living in Wales exhibiting Covid-19 symptoms , you 're being asked to drive across the country to receive priority access to a test .
`` This situation is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it defies logic . ''

The letter goes on to state the message should be shared among staff in Wales "to try and manage some expectations from colleagues there, but also to let them know that we are working hard to try to resolve the issue".


bbcuk--2020-05-13--Skegness woman jailed for boiling water attacks on husband

A woman who threw boiling water over her husband , leaving him scarred for life , has been jailed for two years .
Susan Coulson , 62 , poured the contents of a boiled kettle over Andrew Coulson at their Skegness home in December , as they argued about his use of a phone .
She also threw boiling water over him during a row in October , Lincoln Crown Court heard .
Coulson , who admitted the two assaults , was also banned from contacting her husband or going near his home .
Esther Harrison , prosecuting , told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` from his shoulder down to his lower back '' and suffered a cut to his head following the second attack .
`` He was left with blistering to his skin and scarring to his back , '' she said .
The court heard Coulson , of no fixed address , was `` prone to impulsive acts of aggression '' and had a conviction for wounding a former husband , and a further conviction for assaulting Mr Coulson in 2016 .
Judge Catarina Sjolin Knight told her : `` You have a history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There is clearly a pattern of behaviour of you doing violent things to Mr Coulson . ''
More news from across Lincolnshire Follow BBC East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .
Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news @ bbc.co.uk .

The court heard Coulson, of no fixed address, was "prone to impulsive acts of aggression" and had a conviction for wounding a former husband, and a further conviction for assaulting Mr Coulson in 2016.