bbcuk--2020-03-16--Alex Salmond trial: Rotas 'changed' after women made complaints

The civil service took steps to prevent women having to work alone with Alex Salmond at night , his trial has been told .
Chris Birt , a Scottish government civil servant , said new rotas were drawn up after two female colleagues told him about alleged incidents involving Mr Salmond .
But he said the new policy was never formally written down .
Mr Salmond denies 13 charges of sexual assault against nine women .
The alleged offences are all said to have happened when Mr Salmond was serving as Scotland 's first minister and the leader of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a further charge of sexual assault against a 10th woman after it was dropped by the Crown when the prosecution case ended on Monday afternoon .
The defence will begin to set out its case on Tuesday , with Mr Salmond expected to give evidence .
• Follow @ bbcphilipsim for live updates from the trial Earlier on Monday , Mr Birt told the High Court in Edinburgh that `` we changed the rota '' in about April 2014 in an attempt to ensure that no female civil servant would be alone with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said he did not think it was `` ever written down '' , but that the rotas would have shown two names against a particular task rather than one name .
Mr Birt said the aim was for another , `` generally male '' , civil servant to be working alongside any female civil servants .
He said this came after he was contacted by two of the complainers - known as Women F and Woman G. Mr Salmond denies two charges of sexual assault against both women , including one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Woman F in December 2013 .
Mr Birt said he had spoken to Woman F towards the end of 2013 , when she had appeared `` traumatised '' and like `` something clearly very upsetting had happened to her '' .
He said Woman F told him about the alleged incident , adding : `` I was shocked .
Mr Salmond 's behaviour was often difficult .
I did n't really know what to say initially . ''
Mr Birt said he had spoken to his superior and it was agreed that one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Geoff Aberdein , should be told `` with the aim of speaking to Alex Salmond '' .
Woman F has previously told the trial that Mr Salmond told her to sit on a bed in his Bute House residence in December 2013 , lifted up her skirt and told her she was `` irresistible '' .
She also said that Mr Salmond subsequently apologised to her for his behaviour after being asked to do so by Mr Aberdein .
Under cross-examination from Mr Salmond 's lawyer , Gordon Jackson QC , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been in a `` difficult position '' because it had `` allowed this to build up over time '' .
Mr Jackson put it to the witness : `` This inappropriate behaviour had become part of the culture sadly , but that 's just what happened ? ''
He went on to say : `` Frankly I ca n't speak for the women involved , but for myself I would not have trusted the civil service procedures in place at that time to be able to handle such sensitive issues . ''
Another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told the court that efforts were made to either `` double up '' or `` avoid single female contact with Mr Salmond after certain points of the evening '' .
But he said this was `` more an operational response than an official policy '' .
Earlier on Monday , a civil servant known as Woman B said she had been at a meeting at Mr Salmond 's Bute House residence late one evening .
She said the topics had included a Christmas card that had been created by artist Jack Vettriano for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very large '' number of people .
Woman B said there had been agreement that the image was inappropriate and should not be used as it showed a younger , `` scantily clad '' woman leaning up to kiss an older man .
A different image by Mr Vettriano was eventually used for the Christmas card .
The other two people at the meeting left the room , leaving her and Mr Salmond alone , she said .
Woman B said she started to gather her papers so that she could also leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suddenly `` grabbed my wrists and pulled me towards him '' and asked her to recreate the image on the Christmas card .
She said she had been `` shocked '' and had tried to remove his hands , but it `` felt like every time I managed to get a hand off , another hand would appear .
`` He was very persistent - it felt like I was sort of wrestling with an octopus , there was always another hand coming at my wrists .
`` He was leaning towards me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him , and because he 'd said let 's recreate the pose I knew it was a sexual approach . ''
Woman B claimed that Mr Salmond stopped as soon as one of the other people who had been at the meeting returned to the room .
She said she told her husband about the alleged incident , and also told a colleague and her line manager - but `` there was n't an option to take things further at that time in the Scottish government '' .
She claimed the relationship between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that time meant that she would have been `` removed '' if she had formally complained .
What has the trial heard so far ?
• Woman claims former first minister gave her 'very sloppy ' kisses • Woman says former first minister 'apologised ' for behaviour • Woman says Salmond kissed her after 'zombie walk' Defence lawyer Shelagh McCall QC put it to Woman B that Mr Salmond had been in a `` playful '' mood and that the alleged incident had merely been `` high jinks '' .
Woman B dismissed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone 's wrists and trying to kiss them is more than inappropriate . ''
When asked by Ms McCall why she had not formally complained at the time , Woman B replied : `` If I had complained it would have been swept under the carpet and I would have suffered in my career as a result .
`` I would have been moved .
I never saw anyone in a senior position in the Scottish government tackle the first minister over his behaviour . ''
The next witness said she had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been told by her about the alleged incident the following day .
She also told Ms McCall that she thought Mr Salmond had been in a `` cheerful and playful '' mood that night .
Mr Salmond says he is innocent of all the allegations against him .
He has entered not guilty pleas to all 13 of the charges which he still faces , which include one charge of attempted rape , one of sexual assault with intent to rape , nine sexual assaults and two indecent assaults .

He went on to say: "Frankly I can't speak for the women involved, but for myself I would not have trusted the civil service procedures in place at that time to be able to handle such sensitive issues."


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Plan to ramp up ventilator production 'unrealistic'

A medical devices maker has cast doubt on using non-specialist manufacturers to produce more ventilators .
Craig Thompson , head of products at Oxfordshire company Penlon , said the idea that other firms could switch production was unrealistic .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged engineering firms , including carmakers , to explore if they could make the life-saving equipment .
Ventilators are critical in the care of some people suffering coronavirus .
But there is concern the National Health Service will face a shortage of equipment as the virus infects more people .
The manufacturers association , Make UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for some specialist engineers to scale up production under licence .
Ford , Honda , car parts firm Unipart , digger maker JCB , and aero-engine maker Rolls Royce are among companies looking into the feasibility of switching some production .
Medical ventilators are used to provide oxygen to patients with breathing difficulties , but there are not nearly enough of them to deal with the coronavirus outbreak .
The Department of Health has revealed that in a worst case scenario the NHS will need an additional 20,000 of the machines .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 900 for children in critical care facilities .
The Health Secretary , Matt Hancock , has tweeted asking for help from `` all manufacturers who can support our National Effort for coronavirus ventilator production '' .
But Penlon , which makes anaesthesia machines that include a ventilator , is cautious about hopes that other companies can start making the equipment .
`` The idea that an engineering company can quickly manufacturer medical devices , and comply with the rules , is unrealistic because of the heavy burden of standards and regulations that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Penlon 's Mr Thompson .
He said `` the focus should be on existing medical device companies increasing supply of ventilators '' .
His firm makes 750 machines a year and could double production , given time .
In the short term he could provide the NHS with up to 200 more machines .
`` The manufacture of medical devices , such as ventilators , is highly regulated , '' Mr Thompson adds .
`` Typically a new medical device takes two or three years to develop and launch . ''
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
The UK 's only specialist maker of ventilators for intensive care units , Breas , in Stratford-upon-Avon , has already increased capacity and moved to seven-day working .
Breas makes a range of ventilators called Nippy , which are widely used in the NHS , but it only has 150 staff worldwide .
Make UK believes that the solution to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calls contract manufacturing .
`` Rather than a particular company trying in their own factory to make thousands and thousands of ventilators - which they would struggle to do - you have around them other manufacturers with capacity , '' said Stephen Phipson , Make 's chief executive .
• A ventilator is a machine that helps a person breathe by getting oxygen into the lungs and removing carbon dioxide • Ventilators can be used to help a person breathe if they have lung disease or another condition that makes breathing difficult .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ post-surgery • A tube , connected to a ventilator machine , is placed in a person 's mouth , nose or through a small cut in the throat ( called a tracheostomy ) The ventilator makers would licence their designs to other contractors .
`` There are quite a few companies in the UK which do that sort of work every day of the week , '' Mr Phipson added .
Small manufacturers are already responding to the government 's appeal for help .
Jules Morgan , who owns KPM Marine , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry , has offered to see whether he could make ventilator components .
`` The key will be in how it 's managed .
It 'll involve different manufacturers making different parts - and somewhere it can go to be assembled , '' he says .
`` It 's a big ask , but I think it 's doable . ''
He said challenges would include sourcing electrical components from China and testing the units , which is a time consuming process .
But he said expectations may have to change .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to be pragmatic and innovative .
We need to speak to medical professionals to find out what the core requirements are , and work to those .
`` We may need to consider using older technology that 's easier to produce in high volumes , '' Mr Morgan said .

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bbcuk--2020-03-16--Reward of £20,000 offered over London cousins' murders

An appeal has been launched to find the killers of two cousins who were shot dead within six months of each other .
Cafer Aslan , 54 , was found with fatal gunshot injuries on Westminster Road at the junction with Bounces Road in Enfield , London , on 23 August 2017 .
His cousin Bulent Kabala , 41 , was shot dead on Mount Pleasant , near Edgeworth Road in Barnet , on 12 February 2018 .
A reward of £20,000 has been offered for information that leads to a conviction .
Both men were of Turkish origin and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were killed .
Det Ch Insp Noel McHugh said their families had `` faced mental torment of knowing that the information is simmering in the community '' .
`` Those in the know have an opportunity to reset the moral compass and allow Bulent 's family to get justice , '' he said .
Describing the murders as `` contract killings '' , he said : `` Experience shows that people will have possibly , unwittingly carried out what at the time seemed like a lower level crime such as stealing the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We need this chatter to work its way into evidence . ''
Mr Kabala , a taxi driver , was shot dead at about 23:45 GMT as he got out of his car after it was hit by a Ford Transit van which had been following him .
The van - which had stolen number plates - was later found abandoned in Pilgrim 's Close .
A 46-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of his murder in 2018 but was later released .
Police are also appealing for information about a grey Audi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes after the shooting in the Forty Hill area of Enfield .
They are also tracing a man seen on CCTV walking down Henley Road with petrol cans towards the junction with Huxley Road at 19:35 on the day of the murder .

Mr Kabala, a taxi driver, was shot dead at about 23:45 GMT as he got out of his car after it was hit by a Ford Transit van which had been following him.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Iceland stores to open early for older shoppers

Some Iceland stores will open one hour early to allow older shoppers to buy food when it is quieter amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Iceland said it was not a company policy , but it was allowing individual stores to decide how best to meet the needs of shoppers in their local areas .
The move comes as supermarkets continue to try to stop customers stockpiling .
Several supermarkets have limited the sales of certain products to avoid them selling out completely .
Iceland 's Kennedy Centre store in West Belfast will let older customers shop on their own between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We just want to make sure the experience is as stress-free as possible , '' store manager Danny Burke said .
Mr Burke said the idea had been prompted by suggestions on social media .
He said the store was asking shoppers to `` respect the dedicated hour '' , but said there would be no formal checks on shoppers ' ages .
He told the BBC that the store had seen a `` big uplift in sales '' amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Items including toilet roll , long-life grocery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foods had reportedly seen a boost .
Iceland 's Food Warehouse store in Thanet will also open one hour earlier at 07:00 for older shoppers on Wednesday .
In a Facebook post , the store manager said that the early opening slot would only be for old age pensioners .
It will be at the store 's discretion as to who they let in .
The building society Nationwide is also trialling opening its branches one hour early for older people and those with underlying health conditions .
From 18 March , 100 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be open from 08:00 between Monday and Friday for those it says are at highest risk from the virus .
The BBC has requested comment from other supermarkets on whether they are planning any similar measures .
Supermarkets have called on customers to be `` considerate '' as panic buying has seen shelves stripped of some items including toilet roll and pasta .
In a joint letter on Sunday , UK retailers asked customers to be `` considerate '' when shopping , so that others are not left without much-needed items .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chief executive of the British Retail Consortium ( BRC ) , said : `` In the face of unprecedented demand as a result of coronavirus , food retailers have come together to ask their customers to support each other to make sure everyone can get access to the products they need . ''
The emptying of shelves has led some supermarkets to limit the sale of certain products .
Aldi has restricted customers to buying a maximum of four of each item , while Tesco shoppers are limited to buying no more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-bacterial gels or UHT milk .
With increasing demand seen across UK supermarkets , retailers have been trying to reassure customers that there is enough food supply in the system .
Bruno Monteyne , senior analyst at European Food Retail , told the BBC that although food retailers face a `` stretch '' , `` the industry is ready for this '' .
He said that many retailers will already have plans in place to deal with added pressure .
Morrisons tweeted that it was increasing the amount of food being sent to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also recently sent an email to customers , saying that `` we have more food and essential items coming to us from manufacturers '' .
Meanwhile , John Lewis has moved 500 of its staff over to Waitrose to the help the business cope with huge demand .
Iceland store manager Danny Burke said : `` There 's plenty of food in the system .
The supply chain is robust , and there is enough to go around if people buy sensible amounts . ''
He added : `` I have n't stockpiled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just yet . ''

Speaking on behalf of retailers, Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), said: "In the face of unprecedented demand as a result of coronavirus, food retailers have come together to ask their customers to support each other to make sure everyone can get access to the products they need."


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus kindness: The people offering help as the virus spreads

Stories of people emptying supermarket shelves or arguing over packets of pasta can paint a bleak picture of the coronavirus outbreak .
But there are also acts of kindness that have inspired thousands of others .
Beauty Banks , a charity that supplies essential toiletries to people in poverty , launched an emergency virus-related appeal on Sunday .
`` Since just after noon yesterday we 've raised £60,000 to pay for soap , hand sanitiser , washing powder and so on to help people who do n't have the money to stockpile , '' said columnist Sali Hughes , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Because we 're an existing charity we work with suppliers already .
We think we can get our hands on , certainly for the first drop , a lot of hand sanitiser for people who really , really need it . ''
Ms Hughes said because of the coronavirus outbreak people are more able to relate to the idea of not being able to get items they need .
`` This is the first time lots of us have looked at shelves and thought actually I need something and I ca n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better able to relate to people living in poverty who feel like that quite a lot of the time .
`` I think it 's really important in times of crisis , when people are doing something positive it does make you feel a little bit calmer and more in control .
It certainly does me .
`` I do think the act of giving just makes us feel better .
It feels as though we 're doing something , we 're part of a collective effort . ''
In Altrincham , Greater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help local residents who are elderly , vulnerable or stuck at home without any family or friends nearby .
She and two others set up a Facebook group on Saturday .
`` Before we know it we 've had 2,000 people join the page and 3,500 messages of support saying please let us help .
It 's been amazing . ''
They have got hold of ward maps of the local area and have been divvying up streets to volunteers , who will visit residents and offer to run errands or pick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just felt panic never solves anything , let 's focus some of that energy on really helping the people in our community . ''
Facebook said more than 200,000 people in the UK are now members of more than 300 local support groups set up for the virus .
Brie Rogers Lowery , from the social media site , said it was `` heartening '' to see people rallying round .
The family of 88-year-old Darrell Blackley , who died at North Manchester General Hospital on Friday after testing positive for coronavirus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of kindness in his memory .
`` We invite you to forget flowers and cards , '' said the message , written on behalf of his family .
`` Instead we would like you to give acts of kindness .
Help someone who is lonely or struggling during this time , who needs shopping , childcare or a chat .
`` Post tiny acts of kindness given and received and share .
Build something beautiful in Darrell 's memory . ''
• EASY STEPS : What should I do ?
• A SIMPLE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Ali Currie , from south London , said her two daughters , Scarlet , 10 , and Grace , 12 , posted handwritten notes to the houses on their road .
`` They are pretty caring girls , '' she said .
`` We live in a really lovely neighbourhood which is full of great community spirit . ''
The family have received a few texts and handwritten notes in return and their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will need some help at some point '' .
`` It 's been great to see kindness spread so fast and so far , '' said Becky Wass , whose separate postcard campaign aimed at helping people look out for their neighbours was shared widely on social media .
The postcard , which people can print at home , allows neighbours to offer to deliver shopping , drop off urgent supplies or talk on the phone , and gives the recipients their name and phone number to contact .
`` The response has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from Falmouth in Cornwall .
`` I 'm now hearing heartwarming stories from around the world about people connecting with their neighbours . ''
But it is not just thoughtful individuals who are helping others during the health crisis .
Businesses - many of which are likely to suffer a hard time if social distancing measures increase - are also getting involved .
One hotel in Portaferry , County Down , said it is offering to deliver free dinners to elderly people who are unable to get to a supermarket or restaurant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are a close knit community ; let 's stick together and get through this together , '' the hotel said on Facebook .
Meanwhile , a grocers in Padstow is setting aside half an hour every day solely for shoppers who were born in 1950 or before .
• How to protect your mental health The owner said he hoped it would give elderly shoppers `` a little bit of peace of mind '' in the fight against coronavirus .
Other cafes and shops are doing similar .
A cafe in Glasgow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elderly and people with underlying health issues , while a shop in Stenhousemuir is dropping off packages of hand gel to local pensioners .
The head of the World Health Organization , Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus , has regularly expressed his gratitude to those trying to spread kindness .
He shared a video of a fitness instructor in Seville , in Spain , who held an exercise class for quarantined residents in an apartment block who joined in on their balconies .
`` I am so impressed and inspired by all the examples of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world , '' said Dr Ghebreyesus .
`` With this spirit , we can beat coronavirus . ''

"This is the first time lots of us have looked at shelves and thought actually I need something and I can't have it, and so they're better able to relate to people living in poverty who feel like that quite a lot of the time.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: What is the UK advice?

Coronavirus: What is the UK advice?

Coronavirus is spreading in the UK and a major epidemic is expected .
A worst case scenario could see 80 % of people infected if nothing is done .
What is the UK now doing about coronavirus ?
The UK government 's aim is to delay the spread of the disease and reduce the epidemic 's peak ( when the number of cases is highest ) .
• Anyone with a fever or persistent cough should stay at home for 14 days .
Anyone who lives with someone displaying coronavirus symptoms should also do this .
People who have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Everyone should stop non-essential contact with others .
This is particularly important for people over 70 , those with underlying health conditions and pregnant women • People should work from home where they can • People should avoid places like pubs , clubs and theatres .
This applies especially to those in London which is `` a few weeks ahead '' of the rest of the UK • By the weekend , those with the most serious health conditions should be largely shielded from social contact for 12 weeks The government says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should regularly wash their hands and avoid contacting the NHS unless it 's essential .
These measures , according to the government , will delay the spread of the epidemic so that the NHS can cope with demand and save lives .
Could schools close and public gatherings be banned ?
The government has other powers it could use to protect people from infection : • Police focusing on the most serious crimes and maintaining public order • New legal powers to make people stay in quarantine Scotland , Northern Ireland and Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own decisions .
For example , Scotland has issued official advice to cancel gatherings of more than 500 people .
Northern Ireland has said that when schools close it will be for at least 16 weeks .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Is the NHS ready for coronavirus ?
Up to one in five UK workers could be off sick during a major outbreak , the government says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths , especially among elderly people and those with major underlying health conditions .
Thirty hospitals are on stand-by for patients , but the whole NHS is on an emergency footing .
Hospitals have plans to keep coronavirus patients separate and supply staff with protective masks and suits .
All hospital patients with flu-like symptoms are being tested .
If someone tests positive , they may be moved to one of the main hospitals .
Patients with mild symptoms are being asked to self-isolate at home .
Community teams will keep an eye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people are being advised not to ring NHS 111 to report their symptoms unless they are worried .
How will the NHS treat seriously ill patients ?
Currently there is no treatment or cure , so hospitals are trying to relieve the symptoms .
Specialist ECMO breathing equipment is at five units for patients whose lungs fail .
The government says it wants to make more ventilators - which help people breathe - available to the NHS .
If there is widespread transmission , hospitals could start cancelling routine treatments to prioritise coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 patients may become critically ill , which could overwhelm the NHS .
There are more than 4,000 intensive care beds , which can be increased .
By how much is not clear .
Doctors warn some difficult decisions may need to be made about which patients get treatment .
What is the UK hoping to achieve ?
There would be less pressure on the NHS by delaying the peak to the summer when the rate of transmission may be lower .
Drugs including those to treat malaria and HIV are being tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a vaccine .
But if cases are reduced too much , there is the risk a second wave could hit next winter .
However , some experts disagree with the government 's strategy .
Getting the balance right is , it 's fair to say , going to be very difficult .
What questions do you have about the UK 's coronavirus plans ?
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

But NHS officials said they can effectively increase that to between 11,000 and 12,000 by using ventilators reserved for planned surgery and those available in the private sector, Ministry of Defence, new ones being made and old stocks that are no longer used.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: What are social distancing and self-isolation?

Everybody in the UK has been asked to stop non-essential contact with other people and avoid all unnecessary travel .
This is known as social distancing .
It follows people with flu-like symptoms being asked to self-isolate at home , to avoid infecting others .
So , what do you need to know about social distancing and self-isolation ?
Social distancing means trying to avoid contact with other people .
It means spending less time in public places , where a lot of people are around .
• People to start working from home wherever possible • Pubs , clubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be avoided • Anyone living with someone who has a cough or a temperature to stay at home for 14 days Within days , it expects to announce measures for people in at-risk groups to stay at home for 12 weeks .
This affects pregnant women , people aged over 70 and those with underlying health conditions .
Self-isolating means cutting yourself off from the rest of the world .
From now on , if one person in a household starts to display flu-like symptoms - defined as a fever of above @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living there must stay at home for 14 days .
He said that meant avoiding leaving the house `` even to buy food or essentials '' , adding people could go out to do exercise , but only at a safe distance from others .
The person with the symptoms should stay in a well-ventilated room with a window that can be opened , and keep away from other people in the home .
They should ask for help for groceries , other shopping or medication , which can be dropped off on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery drivers .
People are being advised not to ring NHS 111 or their GP to report their symptoms unless they are worried .
The Covid-19 disease can cause a fever , cough and breathing problems .
It takes five days on average for people to start showing the symptoms .
What if someone self-isolating shares a home ?
If someone is self-isolating and shares a kitchen , they should try to avoid using it when other people are there and take meals back to their room to eat .
Clean all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily .
Although they might not be able to entirely separate themselves from family members or flatmates , the advice is to limit contact as much as possible .
If possible , stay at least 2m ( 6ft ) from other people they live with and sleep alone .
Keep away from vulnerable people .
People living with someone in isolation should wash their hands often , using soap and water for at least 20 seconds - especially after coming into contact with them .
Other people should n't share towels , toiletries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isolation , who should have a separate bathroom .
If that is not possible , the isolated person should use the bathroom last , cleaning it thoroughly afterwards if they are able .
Any rubbish that the isolated person has been in contact with should be double-bagged and kept .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Will I still get paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the first day off work , not the fourth , to help contain coronavirus , the prime minister has said .
This means that people who have to self-isolate or who are ill would get an extra £40 to cover the first four days .
This would take it up to its usual rate of £94.25 per week .
Many casual or agency workers may also be entitled to sick pay but self-employed people are not .
Citizens Advice says people on zero-hours contracts can still get sick pay and should ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government says you can claim universal credit or employment and support allowance if you 're prevented from working for public health reasons .
If you need to care for a relative or your child 's school is closed and you need to look after them at short notice , your employer must give you time off , but it may be unpaid .

The current restrictions in England don't include any limits on socialising - so friends and family are legally allowed to see each other in private houses, or to meet in public places like pubs and nightclubs.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--How can I look after my older relatives?

Older people are more likely to become severely ill if they catch coronavirus , the NHS says .
Generally , it says , anyone over the age of 65 is considered an `` older person '' but there is no strict definition as people age at different rates .
The latest government advice is everyone in the UK should suspend all `` non-essential contact with others '' - but what measures are being taken and what advice is there for looking after older and elderly people ?
Can I visit older people in their own homes ?
The government advises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Covid-19 - such as those over the age of 70 - will be asked to stay at home for 12 weeks .
If you are visiting an elderly relative for an essential purpose , you should `` keep a bit more distance , preferably at least 1m [ 3ft ] apart , no kissing and hugging , sadly , and those hand hygiene practices are incredibly important '' , says Caroline Abrahams , charity director at Age UK .
In its online advice , Carers UK echoes this sentiment , saying the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into contact with is to protect yourself by washing your hands well and often , using sanitiser gel when it is not possible to wash , and generally following NHS advice on not spreading the virus .
Age UK says if people are worried about visiting the elderly at home , they can always maintain contact via the phone , post or online .
What are care homes doing ?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said nobody should visit care homes unnecessarily - but stopped short of saying people must not visit relatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meanwhile , government advice online says anyone who has a new continuous cough or high temperature should not visit care homes and should instead self-isolate .
People who are `` generally unwell '' should also stay away from care homes , according to the advice .
It adds , however , care homes should consider the `` positive impact of seeing friends and family '' , when reviewing their visitor policies .
Any visitors travelling to care homes for essential purposes must practise good hygiene , the government says .
• EASY STEPS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak What if you are worried about someone 's mental health ?
Mental health charity Mind has tips for those who may be alone or worried about the virus , including putting extra photos up of people you care about , and limiting how long you read the news .
It says elderly relatives could also be encouraged to : • stay active by cleaning , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get as much sunlight and fresh air as they can • join an online support community , such as Elefriends There are also steps to help prevent loneliness in those avoiding contact or staying at home .
Olivia Field , loneliness lead at the British Red Cross , says those staying at home should make sure they find time to do things they enjoy , such as watching TV , reading , writing , art or cooking .
`` Ensuring you feel stimulated and have fun protects against loneliness and improves your general @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Remember there are other ways to connect with friends and family - for example , phone , email , social media .
`` Talking to people about your worries , about feeling lonely , or simply just about your day , helps . ''
What else can we do ?
Age UK says it is also important to think of `` practical '' ways to help , such as running errands on relatives ' behalf or picking up supplies such as food and medication .
Simon Hewett-Avison , from charity Independent Age , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elderly people have the supplies they need but urges a `` balanced approach '' rather than panicked stockpiling .
Both the government and supermarkets have urged people not to stockpile goods .
Carers UK says those who can not visit elderly relatives should think of other ways of spending time together - setting up a family group chat , for example , or playing games online .
`` If online communication is n't possible , never underestimate the value of a regular simple phone call to offer social contact and support , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also consider contingency plans if the situation changes , the charity says , such as arranging for a trusted neighbour to help an elderly relative if they are unable to .
If you have concerns about an elderly relative 's health or need more information about coronavirus , you can visit the NHS 111 website .
Older people and their families can also call Age UK Advice for free on 0800 169 65 65 .
Finally , Age UK says while advice and circumstances could change in the weeks and months ahead , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Now is not the time to back off our older population , who need our love and support more than ever , '' Ms Abrahams says .
`` Do provide reassurance and now 's a good time to make a plan together as a family . ''

In its online advice, Carers UK echoes this sentiment, saying the best way to protect people you come into contact with is to protect yourself by washing your hands well and often, using sanitiser gel when it is not possible to wash, and generally following NHS advice on not spreading the virus.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus information: What should I do?

Public health experts have been giving out lots of advice to try to stop the spread of the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ stay well ?
What are the symptoms - and what should I do if I @ @ @ @ @ SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• PROTECTION : Where are we with @ @ @ @ @ READY : How prepared is the UK ?

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--2020-03-16--What are the symptoms?

What are the symptoms?

Coronavirus has spread to more than 145 countries or territories , including the UK , and claimed more than 6,400 lives .
So , what is the disease and how does it spread ?
How do I protect myself ?
The best thing is regular and thorough hand washing , preferably with soap and water .
Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs small droplets - packed with the virus - into the air .
These can be breathed in , or cause an infection if you touch a surface they have landed on then your eyes , nose or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into tissues , not touching your face with unwashed hands , and avoiding close contact with infected people are important for limiting the spread .
Face masks do not provide effective protection , according to medical experts .
What are the coronavirus symptoms ?
Coronavirus infects the lungs .
The symptoms start with a fever followed by a dry cough , which can lead to breathing problems .
It takes five days on average to start showing the symptoms , scientists have said , but some people will get symptoms much later than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 14 days , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) says .
But some researchers say it may be up to 24 days .
People will be most infectious when they have symptoms , but there have been suggestions some can spread the virus even before they are sick .
The early symptoms can easily be confused with other winter bugs including colds and flu .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 'delay ' phase ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak The proportion dying from the disease appears low ( between 1 % and 2 % ) - but the figures are unreliable .
Thousands are being treated but may go on to die - so the death rate could be higher .
But it may also be lower if lots of mild cases are unreported .
• 6 % become critically ill - lung failure , septic shock , organ failure and risk of death • 80 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and some may have pneumonia Older people , and those with pre-existing medical conditions ( such as asthma , diabetes , heart disease , high blood pressure ) , are more likely to become severely ill .
The data from China also suggests that men are at slightly higher risk of dying from the virus than women .
Treatment relies on keeping the patient 's body going , including breathing support , until their immune system can fight off the virus .
Work to develop a vaccine is under way .
• How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
What should I do if I think I have coronavirus ?
The NHS says an epidemic in the UK is `` likely '' .
Patients with mild symptoms - such as a new continuous cough or a high temperature above 37.8C should self-isolate at home for at least seven days , according to the latest advice issued by Public Health England .
People are being advised not to ring NHS 111 to report their symptoms unless they are worried .
They should also not go to their GP , or A & @ @ @ @ @ @ @ check NHS inform , then ring your GP in office hours , or 111 out-of-hours .
In Wales call NHS 111 , and in Northern Ireland , call your GP .
If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected , you may be told to self-isolate .
Advice for people who have travelled back to the UK from affected areas and who may need to self-isolate , has been issued .
Other countries have introduced their own measures For example , the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthcare provider , and those who are mildly ill to self-isolate .
The World Health Organization has also issued advice for the public .
Who gets tested and how does it work ?
In its latest advice , Public Health England ( PHE ) has said those who are self-isolating with mild symptoms will not be tested .
However , all hospital patients with flu-like symptoms will be tested .
If you need testing in the UK results may be available on the same day , but you may be asked to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wait .
How fast is it spreading ?
Hundreds of new cases are being reported worldwide each day .
However , it is thought health agencies may be unaware of many cases .
After starting in China , coronavirus is now spreading fast in many other countries .
This explainer will be regularly updated to reflect the audience 's questions about coronavirus .
Details of how to get in touch are below .
What questions do you have about the coronavirus ?
In some cases your question will be published , displaying your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 :

Older people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure), are more likely to become severely ill. Men are at slightly higher risk of dying from the virus than women.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: What does the latest advice mean?

Coronavirus : What does the latest advice mean ?
The BBC 's Laura Foster explains what the UK government 's @ @ @ @ @ the virus in the UK means for everyday life .

The BBC's Health and Science Reporter, Laura Foster, explains what the latest advice from the UK government and the next stage of response to coronavirus means for everyday life.
Read more: Avoid office, pubs and travel to stop virus - PM


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson advises UK to stay at home if possible

The Prime Minister has said the response to Covid-19 should now be escalated .
He is now urging people to @ @ @ @ @ even if they are not showing symptoms .
If you have a question about coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ bbc.co.uk • EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : @ @ @ @ @

The Prime Minister has said the response to Covid-19 should now be escalated.
He is now urging people to stay at home if possible even if they are not showing symptoms.
If you have a question about coronavirus you can email: yourquestions@bbc.co.uk


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Cook-a-longs and teaching Spanish from isolation

Coronavirus : 'Having no school is boring' Evie explains what it 's like not being able to go to school @ @ @ @ @ the new rules brought in by the Italian government .

Jane Bolado, 72, is self-isolating as a precaution against the coronavirus because she has type 2 diabetes.
Her daughter, Catherine, has been encouraging her to continue her teaching online, and the two are planning a host of virtual activities together, ranging from "cook-a-longs" to book club.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Sherburn mother of suspected case fears lack of testing will cause panic

A mother whose son aged seven is suspected to have the coronavirus says she fears a lack of testing could cause `` more panic '' .
Cody from Sherburn , County Durham , was taken to hospital on Saturday but has not been tested for Covid-19 because he did not meet the testing criteria .
The government has said testing is prioritised for those `` most at risk '' .
Cody 's mother , Ashleigh McCormack , said she had received `` hate comments '' from online doubters .
She said her mother posted an update about Cody on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but the family received `` cyber bullying '' , including accusations they were `` attention-seeking '' and `` scare mongering '' .
Cody , who had recently returned from a family holiday in Spain , started coughing on Thursday night , but developed other symptoms including a high temperature and headache the following evening .
Mrs McCormack called 111 and was advised he should self-isolate , and to call back if he deteriorated .
'You know your child' At about 04:00 on Saturday he `` felt like a toaster to touch '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him to the University Hospital of North Durham .
Who will be tested for coronavirus ?
Public Health England said testing will be prioritised for those `` most at risk of severe illness '' from the virus , including those in hospital care for pneumonia or acute respiratory illness '' .
`` People who are in the community with a fever or cough do not usually need testing '' , the service said .
Tests will `` primarily '' be given to : • All patients in critical care for pneumonia , acute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu like illness • All other patients requiring admission to hospital for pneumonia , ARDS or flu like illness • Where an outbreak has occurred in a residential or care setting , for example long-term care facility or prisons After five hours in hospital and tests including a lung x-ray , they were allowed home to self-isolate again .
Mrs McCormack said doctors told her they believed he had the coronavirus , but it would not be confirmed by testing .
`` If the doctor says you have something , then nine times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' she said , adding : `` Cody is still poorly . ''
`` I am aware the testing has ended , which will probably cause more panic than usual as people will just never know whether they are affected .
`` You know your own body , and a mother knows her child better than anyone . ''
She has also been criticised for sending him to school on Friday , but said `` we did n't think anything of it '' as he was only coughing and not displaying any other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Sherburn Primary School , said it would follow Public Health England advice with the school `` open as normal '' on Monday .
Thirteen members of Cody 's family are now self-isolating , Mrs McCormack said .
• EASY STEPS : What should I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore Follow BBC North East & Cumbria on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .
Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria @ bbc.co.uk .

She has also been criticised for sending him to school on Friday, but said "we didn't think anything of it" as he was only coughing and not displaying any other symptoms at that point.


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Executive announces mitigation measures

The executive has announced it will introduce a package of measures to try to mitigate against the worst effects of Covid-19 .
It said the measures were aimed at protecting the most vulnerable .
Proposals include rates relief for businesses , continuing free school meals if schools close and support for the elderly and homeless .
Earlier on Monday the tourism industry warned 3,000 tourism businesses might not survive without immediate help .
Economy Minister Diane Dodds said there had been `` an alarming drop-off in activity '' in the sector .
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill repeated her call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the UK government 's approach to tackling coronavirus was `` fundamentally flawed '' .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak But she added : `` I want to give people this assurance .
We as an executive have many areas where we have common ground .
`` We will do everything we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work collectively where we can .
`` There are areas where we do not agree , schools being one issue , but we will get there . ''
While schools remain open for now , the education minister said they would have to close at some point in the future because of coronavirus .
Seven new coronavirus cases were confirmed in NI on Monday , bringing the total to 52 .
In a statement on Monday night , an executive spokesperson said ministers had agreed to special meetings of the executive to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure the coronavirus outbreak will have on all departments .
The first minister and deputy first minister will chair the meeting of the Civil Contingencies Group ( NI ) on Wednesday where they will lead the response of the public sector , including blue light responders to the virus .
First Minister Arlene Foster said : `` Further steps are being introduced to keep people safe .
`` We know the burden that some of the necessary measures will have on families and individuals but it is important that they are followed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this disease . ''
Meanwhile a spokesperson for the Royal College of Nursing in Northern Ireland said it was awaiting more details on a government proposal to pass emergency legislation .
The legislation would potentially allow nursing and medical students to assist in hospitals .
The spokesperson added : `` We are clear that essential health and care needs of patients must always be undertaken by appropriately paid and qualified staff .
`` The RCN is currently working in conjunction with a range of members on this issue and is very aware @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Earlier , Mrs Dodds also suggested a recession was likely , saying the modest growth forecast for Northern Ireland this year will be `` wiped out or worse '' .
Representatives from Hospitality Ulster also met with the first minister and deputy first minister and the economy minister on Monday .
Chief executive Colin Neill said : `` The hospitality industry is the first hit , will be the worst hit and will be harder to recover .
`` We need practical solutions , we need to be working with government and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have said we will do everything asked of us and more and to date we have done that .
`` As this situation develops , if and when we have to close we need packages to support our people .
`` Our staff rely on us to put bread on their table and we need a coordinated approach to know they 're okay .
`` Then we need to start on all the things to save the businesses to ensure they have jobs when they come back . ''

"We know the burden that some of the necessary measures will have on families and individuals but it is important that they are followed and society pulls together to lessen the impacts of this disease."


bbcuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus in Wales: Wrexham death confirmed

The death of a first person in Wales from coronavirus has been called a `` first tragedy '' for the nation .
The patient , 68 , with underlying health conditions , died in Wrexham .
It comes as the UK government advised against non-essential travel and told people to work from home and avoid pubs , clubs and theatres if possible .
First Minister Mark Drakeford said the `` dramatic and draconian '' measures were to protect those greatest at risk .
On the death at Wrexham Maelor Hospital , Health Minister Vaughan Gething said it was the `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect more lives to be lost in the coming weeks ahead '' .
The person who died had no travel history and had been living at home before their hospital admission .
• Where are the confirmed cases in Wales ?
• Public should only call NHS 111 if 'ca n't cope' • What 's off and what 's still on in Wales ?
After the emergency Cobra committee meeting in Whitehall , Mr Gething said the `` series of significant measures had been agreed to further slow the spread of coronavirus and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
He said there were `` really difficult times to come '' .
Mr Drakeford , in a news briefing in Cardiff , said everyone should be asking themselves about the steps they could take to avoid interaction with large groups of people .
He said it was the advice for the whole population but especially for people over 70 , or those who have an underlying health condition or are pregnant .
People with particular health conditions will be getting advice later this week on self-isolation for up to 16 weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All of these measures are designed to save lives , by flattening the peak of coronavirus so health services are better able to respond to them but also to isolate people , for whom getting coronavirus would be particularly challenging . ''
What about schools in Wales ?
Mr Drakeford said schools would not close for the time being .
`` Schools will continue to be open and that 's the right decision at this point but we 'll keep it under careful review , '' he added .
He said many parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public services and it was best that they currently kept on working rather than being at home looking after their children .
Earlier , the Welsh Government defended its decision to restrict coronavirus screening to the most symptomatic .
Mr Drakeford said the advice of all four UK chief medical officers was that mass testing is not the `` most sensible '' use of scare resources in the health service .
The first minister said no government had the power to ban mass gatherings , but the advice given made their practical possibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bill to be published Thursday would contain further powers for governments to act in ways they have previously not been able to .
He said it was `` very important '' to say that for most the virus will be an `` imposition but not more than that '' .
`` There will be people who get it and not know they have it '' , but explained the way people who have a mild impact behave will have a big impact on those for whom it can be more serious .
Earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am deeply saddened that a person in Wales who had coronavirus has died .
My heartfelt condolences are with their family and friends .
`` We continue to work hard to respond to this fast changing situation , as the impact of the virus continues to increase in the days and weeks ahead . ''
Chief medical officer for Wales Dr Frank Atherton said : `` It is with regret that today I am confirming a patient in Wales has sadly died after contracting Covid-19 . ''
He offered his `` sincere condolences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for their request for privacy to be respected .
It brings the UK total of deaths to 36 .
Before the emergency meeting , Mr Gething said the death `` underscores the importance of the challenge we face across the rest of the UK and indeed the wider world .
It also , for me , reinforces the need to make choices based on evidence to try to save as many lives as possible . ''
He added : `` There is no single easy answer , the choice we are about to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll be discussing in our National Assembly for Wales tomorrow , will be all be based on the evidence of how to make the biggest difference .
But unfortunately we expect more lives to be lost in the coming weeks ahead . ''
Earlier , the total number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Wales had reached 124 .
However , the true number of cases is likely to be higher as officials are concentrating on testing those sick enough to need hospital treatment .
Public Health Wales ( PHW ) added condolences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` No further details regarding this individual will be released , and we ask those reporting on the situation to respect patient confidentiality , '' said Dr Giri Shankar , PHW incident director .
`` Thirty new cases have today tested positive for Novel Coronavirus ( Covid-19 ) in Wales , bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 124 , '' he added .
`` We are reminding the public that people no longer need to contact NHS 111 if they think they may have contracted Covid-19 .
Instead , anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new continuous cough should stay at home for seven days .
They should not go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital . ''
Meanwhile , the Treasury outlined that the Welsh Government would receive £475m as part of a package of funding for devolved administrations to help people and businesses .
EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : @ @ @ @ @

He added: "There is no single easy answer, the choice we are about to discuss now, and the choices I'll be discussing in our National Assembly for Wales tomorrow, will be all be based on the evidence of how to make the biggest difference. But unfortunately we expect more lives to be lost in the coming weeks ahead."


bbcuk--2020-03-16--PC Andrew Harper trial: Officer 'could not recognise' colleague

A police officer who was dragged behind a car sustained such severe injuries one of his colleagues `` could not recognise him '' , a court has heard .
Andrew Harper suffered `` catastrophic '' injuries after being dragged behind the vehicle in Berkshire in August .
The Old Bailey heard a statement from PC Simon Pink who said he knew 28-year-old PC Harper but `` from the injuries I saw I could not recognise him '' .
Henry Long , 18 , of Mortimer , Reading , and two 17-year-old boys deny murder .
The court has heard how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a stolen quad bike , when a strap trailing behind a Seat Toledo got `` lassoed '' around his ankles as it accelerated away .
PC Harper was dragged for about a mile and after he became detached from the vehicle in a country lane near Sulhamstead , Berkshire , several officers tried to save him .
Prosecutor Jonathan Polnay read a statement by Thames Valley Police firearms officer Nick Kluger , who said he felt `` an immense sense of dread and an urgency '' when he heard an officer was down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a defibrillator to try to save PC Harper and he `` said something like : 'Stay with me , buddy , the ambulance will be here soon and they 'll sort you out ' '' .
He said he felt `` elation '' when paramedics arrived but PC Harper 's injuries were deemed `` incompatible with life '' and he was pronounced dead at 23:45 BST .
PC Andy Kemp , who responded to the quad bike theft report , told the jury he saw a car come `` straight through the junction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The court heard PC Kemp saw `` no lights on the car at all '' and he saw something that made him think that `` they had stolen a cash machine '' .
As he turned into Ufton Lane , he noticed some `` ratchet straps '' on the ground and a body which `` appeared to be tumbling '' .
Mr Long , the car 's driver , and two 17-year-olds deny murder .
Mr Long has previously admitted manslaughter and conspiracy to steal a quad bike .
On Monday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be named due to their age , pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal a quad bike .
They also deny manslaughter .
The trial continues .

PC Kluger and other officers used a defibrillator to try to save PC Harper and he "said something like: 'Stay with me, buddy, the ambulance will be here soon and they'll sort you out'".


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: UK to unveil new financial measures to support economy

The government will unveil more financial plans to help the economy during the coronavirus outbreak , after the prime minister announced unprecedented peacetime measures .
Boris Johnson has urged everyone to avoid unnecessary social contacts , to work from home where possible , and to stay away from pubs and restaurants .
People in at-risk groups will be asked within days to stay home for 12 weeks .
Firms warned the virus restrictions could put them out of business .
The number of people who have died with the virus in the UK has reached 55 .
More than 1,500 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK - but the actual number of cases is estimated to be between 35,000 and 50,000 .
The UK 's shift in strategy comes as Europe plans to ban all non-essential travel throughout the Schengen free-travel zone , as more countries close their borders .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
In Boris Johnson 's first daily update on Monday he acknowledged the economy was facing `` a severe blow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key new measures he announced included : • Everyone should avoid gatherings with friends and family , as well as large gatherings and crowded places , such as pubs , clubs and theatres • People should avoid non-essential travel and work from home if they can • All `` unnecessary '' visits to friends and relatives in care homes should cease • People should only use the NHS `` where we really need to '' - and can reduce the burden on workers by getting advice on the NHS website where possible • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most serious health conditions must be `` largely shielded from social contact for around 12 weeks '' • If one person in any household has a persistent cough or fever , everyone living there must stay at home for 14 days • Those people should , if possible , avoid leaving the house `` even to buy food or essentials '' - but they may leave the house `` for exercise and , in that case , at a safe distance from others '' • Schools will not be closed for the moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be `` particularly stringent '' in minimising their social contact are : • People over the age of 70 • Other adults who would normally be advised to have the flu vaccine ( such as those with chronic diseases ) Why has the UK plan ramped up ?
The UK 's plan has shifted because the scientific modelling showed we were on course for a `` catastrophic epidemic '' .
A strategy of just slowing the spread of the virus , but not trying to stop it , would have overwhelmed intensive care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ London has been heavily informed by the experience in Italy and is influencing decisions at the heart of government .
Its calculations predicted 260,000 deaths in the UK .
Instead the plan is to drive down the number of cases to very low levels , which the models predict will limit deaths from coronavirus to the thousands or tens of thousands .
However , this approach comes with a major problem - there is no exit strategy .
Without the immunity that would build up if people were infected , then cases would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The report said these could need to be in place until a vaccine is available , which could take up to 18 months .
We are in this for the long haul .
The expected economic announcement comes less than a week after new Chancellor Rishi Sunak published his Budget , which included £12bn specifically targeted at coronavirus measures to get the country through the outbreak .
Mr Sunak is also expected to appear at the now daily Downing Street news conference later .
BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg said the £12bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looked potentially `` completely inadequate '' in the light of the way the crisis had developed .
However , she said she would be surprised to hear pledges similar to those on the drastic scale made by French President Macron , who promised hundreds of billions of euros on Monday .
Ahead of the announcement , Robert Chote , head of the Office for Budget Responsibility , told MPs that Britain was facing something akin to a wartime situation for its public finances .
He added that now was not the time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debt .
Help for the airline industry , which has been crippled by travel bans and a collapse in demand , is expected to be among the new measures , according to BBC political correspondent Chris Mason .
Pubs , theatres and music venues have expressed anger about the impact of the government 's new guidance on their businesses .
Many have been critical that the prime minister advised people to stay away from social venues while not forcing premises to close , which could have given them financial protection .
Theatres and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the National Theatre , London Palladium and Royal Opera House , have announced they are to close from Monday night until further notice .
Odeon said it has closed its cinemas until further notice , while the Tate will close its museums until 1 May .
Meanwhile , teachers ' union NASUWT said a lack of advice for schools was causing a `` rising sense of panic '' , adding that a `` definitive decision '' was needed on how to protect staff and pupils .
A World Health Organisation special envoy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's decision to shift strategy and advise greater social distancing to tackle the pandemic .
But he said further testing was needed to `` understand much more precisely how the outbreak is advancing '' .
He told Radio 4 's Today programme : `` I would like to stress that in every other country positions are having to be shifted as we know more about the outbreak . ''
England 's deputy chief medical officer Professor Jonathan Van-Tam said there were `` significant moves afoot '' to increase testing for the virus by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` for now '' it was going to be focused on where it would `` help us most '' , such as patients in intensive care .
Meanwhile , some legislation will pass through the Commons unopposed this week as MPs feel the pressure to tackle the virus .
Emergency legislation on the outbreak , which will be introduced to Parliament on Thursday , and the government 's Budget will get `` nodded through '' , rather than opposition MPs calling for a vote .
The cabinet and shadow cabinet are also due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ met the prime minister on Monday evening and demanded support for the self-employed and those who can not get statutory sick pay .
He described the government 's communication strategy as `` worse than inadequate '' , adding that they did not share the science and rationale behind their decisions with the public .
Mr Corbyn - who is 70 - said he would not follow advice to self-isolate and would carry on his duties as normal .
On Monday the total number of people in the UK to test positive for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a total of 1,543 , according to the latest Department of Health figures .
The latest cases include 30 more from Wales and 18 in Scotland .
Most of those who have died in the UK have been people over the age of 60 with underlying health conditions .
In Monday 's briefing , Mr Johnson said the UK was approaching `` the fast growth part of the upward curve '' in the number of cases .
Sir Patrick Vallance , the UK 's chief scientific adviser , said the UK is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Italy , the worst-affected nation outside China - where the virus originated - has more than 25,000 cases and has suffered more than 2,000 deaths .
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But he added that "for now" it was going to be focused on where it would "help us most", such as patients in intensive care.


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Alex Salmond says there was 'no policy' stopping him working alone with women

Alex Salmond has denied claims that female civil servants were not allowed to work alone with him while he was Scotland 's first minister .
The former SNP leader was speaking as he gave evidence from the witness box at the High Court in Edinburgh .
His trial has heard that the civil service took steps in 2014 to prevent him being left alone with women in his Bute House residence .
But Mr Salmond insisted that `` there was no policy '' like that .
He also claimed that some of the allegations made against him were `` deliberate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others were `` exaggerations '' of what had actually happened .
Mr Salmond denies 13 charges of sexual assault against nine women .
The alleged offences are all said to have happened when he was serving as Scotland 's first minister .
Mr Salmond was cleared of a further charge of sexual assault against a 10th woman after it was dropped by the Crown when the prosecution case ended on Monday afternoon .
• Follow @ bbcphilipsim for live updates from the trial Giving evidence in his own defence on Tuesday morning , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a large team of civil servants when he was first minister .
He said the working environment was very different to other areas of the civil service as there was an `` informality '' and a `` blurring of the normal social-professional boundaries '' .
He said this was because it was a high-pressure , 24/7 operation where people were `` living out of each other 's pockets '' .
The court was told on Monday by civil servants Chis Birt and Michael McIlhenny that steps were taken to prevent women having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after two female colleagues complained about alleged incidents involving Mr Salmond .
But Mr Birt said he did not believe the policy was ever formally written down .
When asked by his lawyer Gordon Jackson QC whether he had been aware of such a policy , Mr Salmond replied : `` No I was not .
There was no policy like the one described . ''
Mr Salmond says he is innocent of all the allegations against him .
He has entered not guilty pleas to all 13 of the charges which he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of attempted rape , one of sexual assault with intent to rape , nine sexual assaults and two indecent assaults .

He strongly denied a further allegation that he put his hand on the leg of an SNP politician known as Woman C while they were in the back seat of a car, saying it would have been "impossible" to have done so without anyone seeing because he would have had to reach over an armrest.


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: West End shuts down as Boris Johnson's advice sparks anger

Theatres in London 's West End and around the UK have shut after PM Boris Johnson advised people to avoid such venues as coronavirus spreads .
`` You should avoid pubs , clubs , theatres and other such social venues , '' he said .
However , he stopped short of forcing venues to close , leaving some in the affected industries in limbo .
The Society of London Theatre , which represents the West End , said theatres would close from Monday night until further notice .
Sister organisation UK Theatre said its 165 venues around the country would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his first daily news briefing on Monday , Mr Johnson said the government advice was that `` public venues such as theatres should no longer be visited '' .
He added : `` The proprietors of those venues are taking the logical steps that you would imagine , you are seeing the change happen already .
`` As for enforcement , we have the powers if necessary but I do n't believe it will be necessary to use those powers . ''
Mr Johnson said that from Tuesday mass gatherings were something `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
He also said people should now avoid `` non-essential '' travel and contact with others .
But many figures from the worlds of theatre , music and nightlife were angry that Mr Johnson advised people to stay away while not forcing venues to close , which could have given them financial protection .
UK Music , which represents the music industry , said the hundreds of likely gig and festival cancellations would cause `` immense damage '' , and Mr Johnson 's comments risked exacerbating the problem .
`` The prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has resulted in huge uncertainty and confusion over what exactly it will mean for the music industry , '' acting chief executive Tom Kiehl said .
`` The government must spell out whether there will be a formal ban , when that might come into effect , which venues and events will be impacted and how long the measures will remain in place .
`` The virus is having a catastrophic impact on the UK music industry and will threaten many jobs and businesses across our right across our sector . ''
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Patrick Gracey , producer of Tom Stoppard 's latest play Leopoldstadt , said the prime minister `` has just doomed an entire industry by telling people not to attend the theatre '' .
He added : `` By not enforcing a shutdown , production insurance will not apply so producers and shows will go bankrupt , and tens of thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tamara Rojo , artistic director of the English National Ballet , said she wanted the government to come up with `` clear plans to how they are going to support the industry when we are all going dark '' .
She told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` This is an industry that provides £111bn annually to the economy , that employs two million people , and a third of them are freelancers .
`` So , for many , this sudden closure without a clear ban - which means that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't be able to claim compensation for a devastating loss - means a lot of uncertainty and potentially a lot of loss of employment and income . ''
Caroline Norbury , chief executive of the Creative Industries Federation , said : `` As the social distancing measures announced are only advisory , rather than an outright ban , we are deeply concerned that creative organisations and cultural spaces will find they are unable to claim compensation for the huge losses they will experience as a result of COVID-19 . ''
Society of London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bird said : `` Closing venues is not a decision that is taken lightly , and we know that this will have a severe impact on many of the 290,000 individuals working in our industry . ''
The Royal Opera House also shut down immediately after the prime minister 's press conference .
Meanwhile , the Museums Association called on the government to divert money from the planned Festival of Britain to help institutions that will find themselves in financial trouble .
`` We are calling for an emergency fund to be created @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' MA director Sharon Heal said .
`` The government had earmarked £120m for a Festival of Britain in 2022 .
We believe this should now be made available to support museums at risk of permanent closure as a result of the Coronavirus epidemic . ''
In other developments on Monday in the entertainment world : • Actor Idris Elba said on Twitter that he had tested positive after coming into contact with somebody who was infected , but that he had not experienced any symptoms • Filming on the new series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was put on hold • TV soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale said they would `` remind people of important public health issues '' like hand-washing • The BBC decided to delay the move to scrap free TV licences for most over-75s from June until August A number of plays and gigs had already been scrapped as the virus continued to spread .
Earlier , Daniel Radcliffe 's new play Endgame became the first major London production to be cancelled in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic .
Citing travel and other restrictions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ becoming increasingly impractical to sustain business as usual at our theatre '' .
The theatre warned that giving full refunds for all lost performances would be `` financially devastating for us '' , so asked ticket-holders to consider the ticket price as a donation .
In New York , Broadway shut down last week and will stay dark for at least a month in a move that could cost $ 565m ( £455m ) in lost revenues , based on takings for the equivalent period last year as reported by The Wrap .
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bbcuk--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: New advice issued for pregnant mothers

Pregnant women are being urged to stay away from others due to the coronavirus , according to new advice .
They are being advised to minimise social contact for up to 12 weeks from this weekend .
The UK government 's chief medical adviser , Prof Chris Whitty , said limited evidence suggested there were currently no known coronavirus-related complications in pregnancy .
But he added the UK was still `` very early in what we know about this '' .
Pregnant women join other at-risk groups including the over-70s and younger people with underlying conditions - roughly equivalent to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their GP - in being asked to stay at home .
He said that , for many infectious diseases , `` there is a small but appreciable additional risk '' and as this was a new virus there was still not enough evidence for people in early stages of pregnancy .
`` Infections and pregnancy are not a good combination in general and that is why we have taken the very precautionary measure while we try and find out more , '' he explained .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced sweeping new measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK on Monday - but stopped short of forcing schools to close .
It has led some pregnant mothers to question how they can keep a distance from others .
What is the advice for pregnant women ?
The government has issued five points that people in at-risk groups such as the over-70s , those with underlying conditions , and pregnant women should follow `` as much as you can '' : • Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus .
These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of public transport , varying your travel times to avoid rush hour , when possible ; Work from home , where possible .
Your employer should support you to do this • Avoid large gatherings , and gatherings in smaller public spaces such as pubs , cinemas , restaurants , theatres , bars , clubs • Avoid gatherings with friends and family .
Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone , internet , and social media • Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services Dr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , told BBC Breakfast she did not understand how it would be possible for a pregnant mother like her to stay away from her six-year-old son and do the school run .
She said : `` Many pregnant women across the globe have got other children .
`` So at the moment , whilst I get the logic of why schools are not closed - my husband also works in the NHS - at the same time , how do I socially distance myself while I have to drop off my son at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no longer my support system - it 's really scary . ''
In newly released guidance , the government advises pregnant women `` to significantly limit your face-to-face interaction with friends and family if possible '' .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
The government has stopped short of ordering people to follow these new guidelines and is for the moment strongly encouraging them to follow it as `` stringently '' as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people is essential , people should remain 2m ( 6ft ) apart .
The BBC has asked the Department of Health how pregnant mothers can keep their hospital appointments for things like antenatal scans and the school run under the new guidelines .
The Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists , Royal College of Midwives , and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health said their joint guidance for pregnant women would be updated to reflect the government 's announcement .

"We would urge all pregnant women who are well to attend their care as normal. If you are pregnant and have symptoms of possible coronavirus infection, you should call to defer routine visits until after the isolation period is over," she said.


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Carluccio's 'days away from large closures'

Hospitality industry bosses have warned that new government restrictions could put firms out of business .
Boris Johnson has urged everyone to avoid unnecessary social contact and to stay away from pubs and restaurants .
Carluccio 's chief executive Mark Jones said that the restaurant chain `` was days away from large-scale closures '' without state aid .
Speaking to the Today programme , he called for `` immediate '' help for the industry from the chancellor .
With consumers increasingly working from home amid the coronavirus pandemic , the restaurants have already seen footfall declining `` on a daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said : `` We understand the role we have to play in public health , so I wo n't question the government 's advice on that .
But to do that to an industry without any fiscal support whatsoever condemns us to death , effectively . ''
He added that the government restrictions announced last night meant `` we 'll be in a situation where sales start to decline even more rapidly from today onwards '' .
The Italian chain , made up of 73 restaurants across the UK and Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to its chief executive .
Many industry figures have expressed anger that the prime minister advised people to stay away from social venues while not forcing premises to close .
This could have given them financial protection for interruption to their business .
But Mr Jones said : `` Insurance is a very lengthy and complex issue , and we need immediate state help in coming days , rather than months . ''
He urged new Chancellor Rishi Sunak to stage an `` enormous state intervention '' , citing measures for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday .
Mr Macron reaffirmed unlimited state financial support for business and employees affected by the pandemic .
Other UK firms that have been affected by new coronavirus containment measures include catering giant Compass Group .
The group warned that its half-yearly operating profit would be lower than expected due to steps taken by governments in Europe and the United States .
It now expects a loss of revenue of up to 30 % across the business .
The UK government is set to announce more financial measures to help the economy during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected announcement comes less than a week after Mr Sunak published his Budget , which set out £12bn of measures for coronavirus support .
To close or not to close ?
That is the question facing thousands of theatres , restaurants , hotels , bars and clubs .
While the UK government - in contrast to many other countries - has not ordered a shutdown of social spaces in reaction to coronavirus , it has recommended that people do n't go .
That is the worst of all possible worlds according to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boss Kate Nicholls described the latest government advice as a potentially catastrophic state of limbo for an industry that employs more than three million people .
Other hospitality industry sources have told the BBC that they fear mixed messages from the government could compromise their ability to claim on insurance policies .
Others say the main issue should be providing a financial lifeline to the industry .
Last week , the government announced a support package including a potential tax and business rates holiday along with loans available to affected businesses .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inadequate to cope with the current emergency .

"In this instance an enforced closure could help them make the claim, but this will depend on the precise nature of the cover they have purchased so they should check with their insurer or broker to see if they are covered."


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Carphone Warehouse to close all standalone stores at cost of 2,900 jobs

Carphone Warehouse is to close all its 531 standalone stores on 3 April , resulting in 2,900 redundancies .
The firm says the move is not related to the coronavirus outbreak , but was because of the changing mobile market .
The mobile phone retailer has shops inside 305 big PC World and Curry 's stores and these will not be affected by the changes .
Almost 40 % of staff ( 1,800 ) affected by the closures are expected to take new roles in the business , the firm said .
Group chief executive Alex Baldock said customers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stores - which sell computers and TVs as well as mobiles - instead of its smaller , standalone mobile shops .
`` They ca n't find all this in the small mobile-only stores that are one-twentieth of the size ; they 're visiting these less and these stores are losing more money as a result , '' he added .
It says the move is `` an essential next step '' in turning around its mobile business as part of a strategy outlined in December 2018 .
The aim is to return this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lose £90m this year , to profitability .
• Dixons Carphone gets its sales figures the wrong way round Talking about the job losses , Mr Baldock added : `` I do n't underestimate how upsetting this news will be for our colleagues , and we 'll treat everyone with honesty , respect and care .
`` But though this is by far the toughest decision we 've had to make , it is necessary .
We must follow our customers .
They want help with all technology , all in one place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to accelerate in a more connected 5G world . ''
Speaking to the BBC 's Today programme , he emphasised the decision was nothing to do with the coronavirus outbreak .
`` The coronavirus and uncertain outlook ahead has underlined the importance of acting decisively , but no , the driver here is what we 're seeing from customers , '' he said .
`` We have to take the difficult decisions to throw our weight behind the parts of the business that the customers are showing us they want ... that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online . ''
Selling electrical gadgets on the High Street has been a tough game ever since internet retailers got into gear a decade ago .
Tough competition from the likes of Amazon sparked the deal that created Dixons Carphone in the first place - the 2014 merger of Carphone Warehouse and Dixons Retail .
The plan was that the merged entity would have the financial muscle to make a decent fist of selling online , and save millions by rationalising the two companies ' retail estates .
That did happen , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ambitious .
For Dixons Carphone , mobile retailing loses £90m a year , so further retrenchment was inevitable .
There will be questions about the timing of the announcement - on a day when so many are distracted by the wider impact of the coronavirus , few will notice the news that 2,900 staff are to lose their jobs .
Dixons Carphone , though , will point to the inevitability of the closures , given the continued losses , and the increasing share of the market being taken by internet players .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a desperate few months - few retailers were hiring , and now the coronavirus has put most other potential hirings on hold .
Dixons Carphone added that it remained committed to mobile and said customers would receive the same expert service in its big stores as in the standalone shops .
It added that it was launching a new mobile offer later in the year and everything would still be available online .
Kester Mann , from market researchers CCS Insight .
told the BBC : `` Carphone Warehouse has been caught in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replacement cycles and ongoing apathy on the UK High Street .
`` It has been clear for some time that something had to give in its business .
A greater focus on online sales is a logical move .
`` With more than twice as many people expected to keep their current mobile phone for longer than their last one , footfall has declined and mobile phone retailing is tougher than ever .
Carphone Warehouse had no option but to make some major changes . ''

"But though this is by far the toughest decision we've had to make, it is necessary. We must follow our customers. They want help with all technology, all in one place, and this trend is only going to accelerate in a more connected 5G world."


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Pubs and restaurants 'could go bust within weeks'

The hospitality industry is warning businesses could go under within weeks if they do not receive government help .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged the public not to go to pubs , clubs and restaurants in response to the coronavirus outbreak .
But he has not ordered businesses to close - meaning they can not make insurance claims for their losses .
The Scottish Licensed Trade Association says bars will quickly be hit with devastating cash-flow problems .
Spokesman Paul Waterson told the BBC 's Good Morning Scotland programme that the UK and Scottish governments need to send out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public .
He said : `` You ca n't say pubs have to stay open , then tell people not to come into them .
`` To leave it up to us ( the industry ) to decide when we are in a very , very difficult situation is just wrong . ''
Mr Waterson added : `` A lot of us have expected this to happen and a lot of places have already shut .
`` I think , now , we 've got to look towards the government to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't get the support , we could well see the majority of hospitality business failing .
`` For some people , it could be a week without any income that would see them go under .
It could be a month or two months for others - it just depends on cash reserves . ''
• Live : Updates on the coronavirus situation in Scotland Scotland 's first minister Nicola Sturgeon said neither the UK or Scottish government currently has the power to order premises to close - but that should change soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency legislation that is about to go through Westminster which will deliver some of these powers .
`` I do think it is reasonable for pubs and restaurants and people in the wider entertainment and hospitality sector to seek that clarity .
`` I am determined , as first minister , that we will give as much clarity as we can . ''
A number of restaurants in Edinburgh announced plans on Tuesday to launch collection and delivery services for local people .
Wedgwood the Restaurant on the Royal Mile , Harajuku Kitchen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they remained open and were operating as normal .
Kaori Simpson , chef patron of Harajuku Kitchen , said : `` We made the decision to start a home delivery service , to support the community , especially those who are self-isolating or working from home . ''
There are now 171 cases of the virus in Scotland , up 18 since Sunday .
• Stop all non-essential social contact and stop going to places with a high concentration of people such as pubs or cinemas • Avoid using public transport as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact is particularly important for people over 70 , for pregnant women and for those with some health conditions • Work from home if you can • Anyone living in a household with somebody who has either a persistent cough or fever must now also isolate themselves for 14 days • Very vulnerable people with compromised immune systems - estimated to be around 200,000 in Scotland - will be given tailored advice on self-isolation that could last a `` period of weeks or months '' • EASY STEPS : How to keep safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the symptoms ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?

"For some people, it could be a week without any income that would see them go under. It could be a month or two months for others - it just depends on cash reserves."


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Croydon bus death: Boy, 16, charged over Damani Mauge stabbing

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murdering teenager Damani Mauge , who was found with fatal stab wounds on @ @ @ @ @ The teenager , from Mitcham , was arrested on Sunday and is due to appear @ @ @ @ @ .
He has also been charged with attempted robbery and possession of an offensive weapon @ @ @ @ @ Police were called to a stabbing on a 130 bus in Whitehorse Lane in south @ @ @ @ @ on 8 March .
Damani , 17 , was found with fatal stab wounds and @ @ @ @ @ scene almost 40 minutes later .
A post-mortem examination found the cause of death was @ @ @ @ @ chest , police said .

The teenager, from Mitcham, was arrested on Sunday and is due to appear at Croydon Magistrates' Court.


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Why Mel and Sue quit Bake Off on first day of filming

Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc famously quit as presenters of The Great British Bake Off after it moved to Channel 4 .
But the pair have now revealed to the Radio Times it was n't the first time they had resigned from the show .
`` On day one we had quite a frank chat with the producers , '' Giedroyc said .
`` We resigned , basically , '' Perkins said .
`` Because it was not a kind show .
They were pointing cameras in the bakers ' faces and making them cry and saying , 'Tell us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • ' I knew Mel would quit Bake Off with me' • Why did Bake Off move to Channel 4 ?
Clearly , the problems were ironed out and the presenters decided to continue , hosting the show from 2010 to 2016 .
The duo have now known each other for 32 years .
They met at Cambridge University and have worked together in radio and TV ever since .
When Bake Off was at its peak , it was announced that the show would move from the BBC to Channel 4 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ were `` not going with the dough '' .
Perkins says they found out about the move to Channel 4 via a TV news report .
`` We wish it the best and in return we just wanted them to understand that it would have been hard for us to carry on in those circumstances .
There 's no antagonism there .
I just think , 'If you 're going to let us find out that way [ from TV ] , then we 're not really a team , are we ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while Paul Hollywood went to the show 's new home , where he was joined by Prue Leith , Noel Fielding and Sandi Toksvig .
Toksvig recently announced she was quitting .
Matt Lucas is replacing her .
Their latest project is playing assassins in Sky 1 comedy Hitmen .
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If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

"We wish it the best and in return we just wanted them to understand that it would have been hard for us to carry on in those circumstances. There's no antagonism there. I just think, 'If you're going to let us find out that way [from TV], then we're not really a team, are we?'"


bbcuk--2020-03-17--Plan to extend early prisoner release scheme

The government is planning to extend a scheme which allows some prisoners to be freed early to ease pressures in jails across England and Wales .
Under the programme , certain inmates jailed for less than four years can be let out before the halfway point of their sentence .
They are made to wear an electronic tag and abide by a curfew .
Ministers want to increase the maximum period for which they can be released from four-and-a-half to six months .
An official estimate , carried out last year , said it would lead to a `` spike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of prisoners who are freed early .
Last Friday , 2,718 prisoners were on the scheme , which is known as home detention curfew ( HDC ) .
The timing of the announcement is likely to fuel speculation that it is linked to fears of a possible outbreak of coronavirus in prisons , but sources insisted the two were not connected and it was instead related to wider capacity concerns .
• 'More ' prisoners to be freed with tags The prison population stands at 83,917 , which is 1,431 more than 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase further due to sentencing changes and the recruitment of 20,000 extra police officers .
The HDC changes were presented to MPs on Monday and will require parliamentary approval .
They were first put forward in July 2019 when David Gauke was justice secretary but were dropped as Boris Johnson prepared to take over as prime minister .
A Ministry of Justice `` impact assessment '' , published last July and signed by Robert Buckland , who was prisons minister before succeeding Mr Gauke , said the aim was to better manage the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supervision in the community .
The document said changes to the scheme would also `` reduce the prison population by allowing suitable offenders to be managed in the community rather than in custody for up to six weeks ( 45 days ) longer '' .
It said : `` This will contribute to improving prison conditions and enable prisoners to feel safer , calmer and readier to engage in their rehabilitation .
`` A reduction in prison population may also contribute to making them safer places for staff and other offenders . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not affect the category of prisoner who is eligible for early release .
HDC does not apply to offenders serving four or more years in jail or less than 12 weeks , those liable to deportation and registered sex offenders .
A number of other prisoners are also considered unsuitable including people convicted of terror-related offences and cruelty to children .
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said the government had been clear serious offenders should stay in prison for longer and public protection was its `` top priority '' .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice system must also rehabilitate whenever possible and Home Detention Curfew allows carefully assessed offenders , who committed less serious crimes , to begin their reintegration back into the community .
`` They remain subject to strict conditions , including electronic tags , and can be returned to custody if they fail to comply with any of these . ''

The timing of the announcement is likely to fuel speculation that it is linked to fears of a possible outbreak of coronavirus in prisons, but sources insisted the two were not connected and it was instead related to wider capacity concerns.