bbcuk--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: Wales' stay home advice 'has not changed'

The stay-at-home message in Wales has not changed , the First Minister Mark Drakeford has said .
His comments come in response to Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's plans to allow people in England to spend more time outdoors - alongside a new message to `` stay alert '' .
They include allowing people to drive to other destinations and sit in parks - none of which will apply in Wales .
Mr Drakeford said people in Wales should stay home `` wherever you can '' .
Another member of the Welsh Government , Jeremy Miles , said exercise must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face fines if they drove into Wales for leisure .
The new message `` stay alert , control the virus , save lives '' has been rejected by ministers in Wales and Scotland .
Changes to the lockdown in Wales coming into force on Monday - including opening garden centres and allowing people to exercise more than once a day - have not gone as far as that proposed for England .
In his speech Mr Johnson also unveiled a `` conditional plan '' to reopen society , with dates for when schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in England to spend more time outdoors from Wednesday .
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• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
But in a video statement Mr Drakeford said : `` Our advice has not changed in Wales .
`` Wherever you can you should stay at home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home for work , exercise or shopping , you should stay local and stay alert . ''
`` If you go out , stay local and stay safe . ''
The first minister added : `` The health of the public is paramount .
It will inform our decisions and we will continue to inform you as we plan for our future in the weeks ahead . ''
What did the prime minister announce for England ?
• From Wednesday , people in England can take `` unlimited exercise '' , including sitting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ destinations for exercise • Schools in England could begin to return on 1 June , with primary schools opening first , but that date is the `` earliest '' it could happen • In England , parts of the hospitality industry and more shops could open from July , dependent on the data • Mr Johnson says he `` will not hesitate to put on the brakes '' if there are further outbreaks of the virus • People who could not work from home should return to the workplace - but avoid public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that schools will not reopen on 1 June .
Greater fines were announced for those who break the rules in England .
Ministers in Wales can set their own fines , which currently range from £60 to £120 .
Mr Miles , the Welsh Government 's counsel general who has been put in charge of its coronavirus recovery plan , also said Welsh regulations already permit people to work away from home if it is safe .
The counsel general said the prime minister 's statement was `` aimed at people in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still being asked to stay home .
He told BBC Wales the position was `` rather different in Wales '' .
He said it was not the case that people could drive to other destinations in Wales .
`` Our regulations do not permit people to get in their cars and drive to destinations in Wales , and that includes people getting in their cars in England , '' he said .
Speaking to BBC Wales , Mr Price said it was `` effectively the end of the four nation approach - we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland with a simple , clear stay at home message .
England has signalled a move away from that '' .
`` The stay alert message is confusing .
It 's the wrong decision for England but it also sends a mixed message and makes our work here harder '' .
It was n't clear from the prime minister 's broadcast , but aside from the imposition of quarantine `` on people coming into this country by air '' the rest of the lockdown changes he announced will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course , Boris Johnson is the prime minister for the whole of the United Kingdom so his speech is obviously for a wider audience .
Ultimately , on the big ticket changes the prime minister has decided to keep England pretty much aligned with Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland - for now , at least .
But differences in messaging , slogans , and changes around the margins could potentially cause problems for Welsh ministers .
Having heard the prime minister 's address , is everyone in Bristol who fancies driving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the rules are different in Wales ?
A Welsh Government source said `` people need clear communications '' and they may now end up `` wasting time '' clarifying the different regulations on either side of the border .
Earlier on Sunday the announcement of the new `` stay alert '' slogan was met with dismay by Welsh Government ministers .
Health Minister Vaughan Gething said on Twitter : `` There has not been a four-nations agreement or discussion on this . ''
But the UK government 's Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` update and broaden '' the message to the public from `` stay at home '' to `` stay alert '' .
`` Stay alert will mean stay alert by staying home as much as possible , but stay alert when you do go out by maintaining social distancing , washing your hands , respecting others in the workplace and the other settings that you 'll go to , '' he said .
'Best answer to move in same direction' Mr Johnson also set out a `` road map '' for measures to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier on BBC One 's Politics Wales programme , Mark Drakeford said `` the best answer is that we move in the same direction across the whole United Kingdom '' .
Asked whether he would produce his own plans , he said `` it may be that the timings of exact measures will be different '' .
Plaid Cymru and other Westminster opposition parties took part in a phone call with the prime minister on Sunday afternoon , where concerns were raised with Boris Johnson directly over the stay alert message .
Liz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told BBC Wales : `` I 'm very concerned that that term stay alert is just not as clear in anyone 's mind as the message of stay home . ''
Mr Drakeford said the Welsh Government would use the latest three-week lockdown extension to look at the possibility of opening more public services .
Potential options for discussion include resuming some postponed NHS procedures and use of public transport .
He said talks about when and how to reopen schools would also continue but repeated that there will be no change at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made in a `` careful and cautious way '' , he said .
The rate of transmission of the coronavirus - the so-called `` R number '' - will be the biggest factor in the Welsh Government determining when the lockdown will be eased , with ministers wanting to keep R below one .
It was announced on Friday the R number stands at around 0.8 in Wales .
Asked where it needed to be before further lockdown restrictions would be eased , Mr Drakeford said : `` If we can hold that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ] and increase it a bit further then there may be more things we can do .
`` But it 's a matter of doing things , testing their impact in the community and then making decisions based on the best evidence you have at the time .
`` Lockdown ca n't go on forever both because it has other health impacts of its own ... and , of course , lockdown does have an effect on the economy . ''

Asked where it needed to be before further lockdown restrictions would be eased, Mr Drakeford said: "If we can hold that headroom [between R being 0.8 and 1] and increase it a bit further then there may be more things we can do.


bbcuk--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: KFC lockdown litter in Beccles angers thousands

Thousands of people have reacted angrily to a photograph of a discarded KFC takeaway box taken days after a branch reopened .
Nature photographer Harry Read , 23 , saw the litter on a grass verge near Beccles , Suffolk , on Friday .
He was `` blown away '' when his image of the empty box drew more than 40,000 reactions and 6,000 comments online .
KFC , which has resumed drive-thru service at some outlets , said it encouraged customers to bin litter .
Mr Read , whose nearest branch had reopened two days earlier , said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of food in it .
`` I saw the box , and thought 'surely not ' , '' he said .
`` But it was , so someone must have thrown it from their car very recently . ''
He stopped his car , snapped a photo and took the cardboard home to recycle before penning his viral post .
In a Facebook post , he wrote : `` Hear me out , I know it 's just a KFC box , but it represents something bigger… '' '' As restrictions begin to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to habits like this ? ''
`` Do n't be a tosser , '' he added , referring to a slogan used in anti-litter campaigns .
Although a few commenters called him a `` snowflake '' and a `` hippy '' , he said `` at least 95 % '' agreed his concerns were `` spot on '' .
`` People are furious about these bad habits , '' he said .
`` Moving out of this lockdown , as restrictions ease , surely there 's no better time to consider what you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ habits that harm the environment . ''
A spokesman for KFC said staff carried out regular litter patrols near restaurants and customers were encouraged to take litter home or `` put it in the bin where possible '' .
`` With great fried chicken , comes great responsibility , '' they added .
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"Moving out of this lockdown, as restrictions ease, surely there's no better time to consider what you are doing and not default to lazy habits that harm the environment."


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Use common sense to see loved ones outdoors – Dominic Raab

People in England can meet another person from outside their household as long as they are outside and stay 2m apart , the government has confirmed .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said people should `` use some common sense '' and can not visit others at their home .
The new rule is part of a 50-page guidance document to be published by the government later .
Scotland and Wales - which have their own powers over lockdown and have not changed the advice to stay at home - rejected No 10 's new `` stay alert '' slogan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the PM 's plan for lacking clarity .
• What are the new rules ?
• Who am I allowed to meet now ?
• Are you going back to work today ?
Email In his address on Sunday , the PM said people who could not work from home - including those in the manufacturing and construction industries - should be `` actively encouraged to go back to work '' but avoid public transport .
Mr Raab confirmed that this will apply from Wednesday .
People will also be allowed to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or sunbathe in parks , drive to other destinations to exercise and play sports with household members from Wednesday .
The Welsh Government has urged people not to drive across the border into Wales .
The changes in guidelines will also allow two people from different households to meet in a park if they stay 2m ( 6ft ) apart .
Asked about that advice on BBC Breakfast on Monday , Mr Raab said : `` So we 've said that as long as you go out of home , for the park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be , you can go with members of your own household .
`` If you 're out in the park and you 're 2m apart ... and use some common sense and you socially-distance , you can meet up with other people . ''
Asked if someone could meet more than two people at different times , for example their mother in the morning and father in the afternoon , Mr Raab said : `` Outside in the outdoors , staying 2m apart , yes . ''
However , the UK government put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet one person outside at a time - not two people , such as both parents , at the same time .
It comes after Mr Raab incorrectly told the Today programme that someone could meet both their parents at the same time `` if there 's 2m apart '' .
Mr Raab was also pressed on whether people could meet others in a garden or driveway .
`` We are not moving to a stage where we say that households can mix inside the home , '' he said .
`` So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not mix within the homes… and that advice is not changing . ''
People who have been identified as vulnerable - those who are being shielded - are still strongly advised to stay at home and anyone who has symptoms should self-isolate .
When outdoors , people are much less likely to come into contact with an infected surface , while any tiny particles of virus ( called aerosols ) would be dispersed by fresh air .
So the main remaining danger comes from large droplets , and staying 2m away from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommend - should overcome that .
On Sunday , Mr Johnson announced a new Covid alert system with five levels that would influence how quickly the lockdown - which was first announced on 23 March - could be changed .
Level five is the most critical , and the UK is currently ready to move from level four to three .
Mr Johnson said the government would `` modify '' lockdown measures over three `` careful '' steps through to July .
The first step begins on Wednesday .
Mr Johnson said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the earliest by 1 June '' - there could be a phased reopening of shops and some primary aged pupils could return to school .
The third step could see some hospitality businesses and other public places reopen - `` if the numbers support it '' - but not earlier than 1 July .
The prime minister stressed this was all `` conditional '' on a series of `` big ifs '' and he would not hesitate to `` put on the brakes '' if there are further outbreaks of the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a statement to Parliament at 15:30 BST on Monday , with more information expected on a Covid-19 alert system , use of face masks , and the return of professional football .
There will be a press conference in the evening , No 10 said .
'Trying to pull off the impossible' The prime minister is effectively trying to pull off the impossible .
He wants to try to restart normal life , while keeping the virus at bay with limited means to do so .
With no vaccine , the government is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But the problem is that even with the extra testing that has been put in place over the past month , there are big holes in the UK 's ability to suppress the virus .
It takes too long to get test results back - several days in some cases - and those most in need of regular testing , such as care home staff for example , are still reporting they can not always access tests .
Our ability to trace the close contacts of infected people remains unknown - the piloting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use of an app and army of contact tracers , has just started on the Isle of Wight .
It means we are effectively fighting this `` invisible killer '' with one hand behind our back .
We are not alone in struggling , similar problems are being encountered by other countries .
But we are still some way behind the best prepared and equipped , such as Germany and South Korea .
But Sir Keir said Mr Johnson 's speech raised `` as many questions as it answers '' .
Labour 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employment rights minister Andy McDonald said they were `` deeply concerned '' about the recommendation that those people unable to work from home should go back to work .
In a letter to Business Secretary Alok Sharma , they said urging staff to return to work with 12 hours ' notice and no guidance on how they could stay safe was `` irresponsible and wrong '' .
They called on the government to publish its guidance and ensure it addressed measures such as safe social distancing in the workplace and mandatory Covid-19 risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as answers Mr Johnson said he had consulted `` across the political spectrum , across all four nations of the UK '' and that his plan was a `` a general consensus on what we could do '' .
But the leaders of Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland have refused to adopt England 's new message of `` stay alert , control the virus , save lives '' .
Wales ' health minister said there had not been a `` four-nations agreement '' on the new `` stay alert '' message @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home '' in Wales was unchanged .
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said there should be a `` simpler '' message and stressed the `` stay at home '' slogan would continue to apply in Scotland .
The Northern Ireland Executive said it would `` consider its plan for a phased , strategic approach to recovery '' at a meeting on Monday , with politicians there emphasising the `` stay at home '' message ahead of Mr Johnson 's address on Monday .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in your area ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
Some union leaders and business groups have criticised the plans , and called for further clarity .
The National Education Union ( NEU ) said the idea that some schools could reopen from 1 June was `` nothing short of reckless '' as the infection rate is still `` far too great '' .
Meanwhile , TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said the PM 's statement would cause workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , and urged No 10 to provide `` clear direction '' for staff and employers in the form of `` tough '' new safety rules .
The British Chambers of Commerce said businesses needed their `` practical questions answered so they can plan to restart , rebuild and renew '' .
It comes as a further 269 people have died in the UK after testing positive for coronavirus , taking the total number of deaths recorded to 31,855 .
The government missed its target of 100,000 tests a day for the eighth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests on Saturday .
• John Apter , the national chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales , said the PM 's plans risk being a set of `` loose rules that are left open to interpretation '' and difficult to enforce • A limited number of jury trials in England and Wales will resume with social distancing rules from next week at selected courts , including London 's Old Bailey and Cardiff Crown Court • Further details are expected on the government 's plans to impose a 14-day quarantine on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prime minister said yesterday would not apply between France and the UK `` at this stage '' • The justice secretary has indicated there may be changes to lockdown rules which has led to weddings being cancelled due to the coronavirus Are you going back to work today ?
Email haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
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But the problem is that even with the extra testing that has been put in place over the past month, there are big holes in the UK's ability to suppress the virus. It takes too long to get test results back - several days in some cases - and those most in need of regular testing, such as care home staff for example, are still reporting they cannot always access tests.


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Care-worker death rate twice that of health workers

People working in social care in England and Wales have been twice as likely to die with coronavirus as the general working-age population , Office for National Statistics figures show .
But healthcare workers have been no more likely to die than other workers .
Nearly two-thirds of the 2,494 20- to 64-year-olds whose deaths were linked to Covid-19 were men .
And 63 were male security guards , making them almost twice as likely to die as even men working in social care .
The ONS analysis , up to 20 April , factored in age but did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ location , wealth or underlying health conditions .
As a result , it can not prove the deaths were caused by the jobs people do or by other factors .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 131 were care workers - 86 female and 45 male .
But because many more social care workers are female , this equates to a death rate of 23.4 per 100,000 for men and 9.6 per 100,000 for women .
However , despite their close proximity to patients , healthcare workers , including doctors and nurses , had much lower death rates .
This may be because they had better access to personal protective equipment ( PPE ) than other workers .
The overall death rate for men aged 20-64 in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths per 100,000 , compared with 5.2 for women .
For male security guards , it was 45.7 .
Among men , some specific occupations had noticeably higher death rates linked to Covid-19 , including : Men working in low-skilled jobs were more likely to die with Covid-19 than other groups , including managers , skilled tradesmen and professionals .

Dr Michael Head, senior research fellow in global health, from the University of Southampton, said: "The forthcoming guidance for safe working simply has to provide extensive detail on how each sector is expected to manage their staff and working environments."


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: 'Loose' lockdown rules 'unfair' on officers, police warn

Police officers need clearer guidance on the new lockdown measures as the PM 's announcement was too `` loose '' and open to interpretation , a body representing law enforcement has said .
The Police Federation for England and Wales said the ambiguity of the new measures for England could make an `` already challenging '' job `` impossible '' .
This would be `` grossly unfair on officers '' , the federation added .
It comes as lockdown fines rise from £60 to £100 in England from Wednesday .
In his speech on Sunday evening , Prime Minister Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to begin lifting England 's coronavirus lockdown .
• What are the new rules set out by Boris Johnson ?
• Use common sense to see loved ones outdoors - Dominic Raab A new slogan was also unveiled , with `` stay home '' changing to `` stay alert '' .
Scotland and Wales - which have their own powers over lockdown and have not changed the advice to stay at home - rejected No 10 's new slogan , while Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticised the PM 's plan for lacking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is due to be published later .
John Apter , chairman of the Police Federation , said further detail on the new measures needed to be `` clear and unambiguous ... explaining what exactly is expected of the public , so that my colleagues can do their level best to police it '' .
He added : `` Police officers will continue to do their best , but their work must be based on crystal clear guidance , not loose rules that are left open to interpretation - because that will be grossly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging . ''
Mr Apter also noted Mr Johnson 's statement came after a week of `` mixed messages and the release of some information which , fuelled by media speculation , meant many people acted as though the lockdown had already ended '' .
He said : `` If the message of what is expected of the public is not clear , then it will make the job of policing this legislation almost impossible . ''
Existing legislation , known as the Health Protection ( Coronavirus , Restrictions ) ( England ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday to reflect the changes coming into force .
Among the changes will be a change to fines for those breaching the lockdown measures .
The first fine someone receives if police believe they are flouting restrictions on movement will be £100 .
However , this will be lowered to £50 if paid within 14 days , according to the Home Office .
Fines will double for each repeat offence , up to a maximum of £3,200 .
In Scotland , lockdown fines will remain unchanged after the nation 's government found no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
People found to be flouting lockdown rules in Scotland will be first fined £30 by police , which rises to £60 if not paid within 28 days .
Cumulative fines for repeat offenders are capped at £960 .

John Apter, chairman of the Police Federation, said further detail on the new measures needed to be "clear and unambiguous... explaining what exactly is expected of the public, so that my colleagues can do their level best to police it".


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: 'Do not drive from England to Wales to exercise'

People have been warned they are not allowed to drive from England into Wales for exercise as the two countries move to different lockdown rules .
Rules have been relaxed in England , meaning people can `` drive to other destinations '' for a walk .
In Wales , people can not travel `` a significant distance '' from home .
The Welsh Government 's counsel general , Jeremy Miles , said rules `` do not permit people to get in their car and drive to destinations in Wales '' .
`` And that also means people getting in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying police in Wales `` absolutely have the power to fine '' people for making non-essential journeys and not exercising near their homes .
South Wales Police Federation chairman , Steve Treharne , said where there had been an easing of regulations in England `` people will see the messages and may take up more activities in Wales . ''
Driving from England into Wales `` still becomes an offence , '' he said .
Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner , Jeff Cuthbert , feared the prime minister 's message would cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson said yesterday , whilst we are clear what the rules in Wales are , certainly in the eyes of the public I 'm sure what he has said has muddied the water .
`` I worried about my colleagues in England and how they will police the idea of 'staying alert ' - I 'm not sure how that is going to happen .
`` Undoubtedly , because of the strength of the English media there is going to be confusion in the minds of many people .
`` It could well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mention the situation in Wales . ''
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner , Arfon Jones , dubbed differences in English and Welsh measures a `` complete mess . ''
`` How are we supposed to get the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ? ''
he said .
`` It 's hard enough ensuring that those living in Wales are aware of the Welsh policy , because so many tune in to television channels from across the border .
`` It 's going to be very difficult to get the message across that they should not come to Wales because the measures are different , and that they will be stopped and fined if they break these rules . ''
Mr Johnson had made North Wales Police 's work `` so much harder , and unnecessarily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public on Sunday , Mr Johnson said people could `` drive to other destinations '' .
But the Welsh Government has stood by its `` stay at home '' message and is only allowing people to make essential journeys .
Among businesses allowed to open in England are golf courses .
Llanymynech Golf Club , in Shropshire , sits on the border and has 15 holes in Wales and three in England .
Wales Golf said courses in Wales `` must remain closed for now . ''
A spokesman said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to resume play responsibly , as and when the relevant government determines it is safe to do so .
`` We must ensure that the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved from golfers , to club staff and greenkeepers is maintained at all times . ''

She asked: "Would he agree with me that while the R number [rate of infection per person] continues to vary across the country, restrictions in Wales remain the same and the changes that he announced last night are not a green light for tourism or for people to travel to their second homes in Wales?"


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Lockdown plan 'could be published on Tuesday'

A plan to take NI slowly out of lockdown could be published on Tuesday , First Minister Arlene Foster has said .
The executive is meeting to discuss the document , and it could be published within the next 24 hours if signed off by ministers .
They insist any changes to restrictions will be gradual and must be supported by scientific advice .
On Sunday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave the first details of plans to ease lockdown in England .
Mrs Foster said devolution meant it was possible to have `` localised solutions within a United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking a different approach ?
On Sunday , the prime minister emphasised a new `` stay alert '' slogan , as opposed to the `` stay at home '' message which had been promoted since the start of the lockdown .
That move was criticised by politicians in Northern Ireland , who have continued emphasising the original campaign .
As the infection has spread at different rates in various parts of the UK , Stormont ministers have said Northern Ireland must follow its own criteria and scientific advice .
The R-value - or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Executive 's decision to extend the lockdown until at least the end of May .
The R-number shows how many people will get infected for every one person who gets ill .
In Northern Ireland , the R-rate is sitting just below one , at 0.8-0.9 , and the Executive has said it must remain at a low level before restrictions can begin to be lifted .
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill said recovery would have to happen `` one step at at time '' , to avoid the risk of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the near future .
What could NI 's recovery plan look like ?
It seems likely that the plan will not include projected dates next to different phases of easing the lockdown .
Setting `` arbitrary '' dates does n't work , as it could provide false hope of some restrictions being eased prematurely , Ulster Unionist leader Steve Aiken told Radio Foyle 's Breakfast programme on Monday .
First Minister Arlene Foster would not be drawn on the detail of the plan in an interview with Radio Ulster 's Good Morning Ulster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would sign it off later on Monday .
There will likely only be `` minor changes '' announced by the Executive to take effect this week , on issues such as outdoor exercise and potentially some churches being allowed to facilitate individual prayer .
It is expected there will not be a phased return of schools until September .
The Executive is aware that while its own roadmap may differ from that announced by Downing Street , Northern Ireland is still reliant on Westminster for some financial support .
Many businesses in NI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheme , allowing employers to temporarily lay off staff while the government pays 80 % of their wages during the crisis .
Alliance MP Stephen Farry said it was a `` false narrative '' to set the reopening of the economy against protecting public health .
`` If we reopen prematurely and we have to go backwards and put measures in place once again , the economic and psychological impact of that is going to be immense - far greater than actually taking the safety approach , '' he added .
How will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's plan ?
The Irish government has already announced a detailed plan for bringing the Republic of Ireland slowly out of lockdown .
It has five stages , with the first beginning on 18 May and the last phase by 10 August , if the spread of the virus is contained .
Phase one includes the reopening of golf courses on a restricted basis , and outdoor meetings between people from different households .
There are questions about how the Republic of Ireland 's plan fits with what the NI Executive will announce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long border which people cross each day for work or leisure .
During the first stage of the lockdown , it emerged that gardaí ( Irish police ) had been informed they had no enforcement powers over people from Northern Ireland , who may have breached Covid-19 regulations in the Republic of Ireland .
What is NI 's plan for testing ?
Northern Ireland has been working to increase its testing capacity since the first case of the virus was confirmed in February .
Health officials say capacity has grown from 40 tests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests now , with another laboratory due to start work this week .
However , testing remains limited to people who are being admitted to hospital , live in care homes or are essential workers .
In care homes , where almost half of Covid-19 deaths have been recorded so far , residents and staff are only tested where there is a suspected outbreak , or if they are new entrants to the care home sector .
It is not clear when the Executive intends to move to wider testing within the community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any recovery plan from lockdown must be linked to a strategy for widespread testing in Northern Ireland .
Effective testing and tracing has been proven to work in other countries `` who have survived this '' and there is no sense that such a testing strategy is ready in the UK , said the Foyle MP .
What is Northern Ireland 's overall picture in terms of confirmed cases and deaths ?
There is a considerable difference in the death tolls in the two sets of figures published in Northern Ireland .
While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 516 deaths by 1 May , the Department of Health - which records deaths of patients who tested positive for coronavirus , and therefore mostly died in hospital - had recorded 365 deaths by the same date .
Nisra 's toll is 35 % higher because its weekly bulletin , released each Friday , records all fatalities with Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate , regardless of where the individual died and whether or not they had been tested for the virus .
So although the health department confirmed five more deaths on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the overall death toll will be significantly higher .
The disparity between the two sets of figures has caused confusion , but the department said there was always a time lag for registering deaths in the community - which can take five days - so Nisra 's report could not feasibly be linked to the daily figures .
Nisra 's report on Friday showed there were 27 patients in intensive care with Covid-19 symptoms , compared to 58 a month ago .
How does Northern Ireland compare to the rest of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although comparisons between countries and regions are difficult due to differences in how statistics are compiled , Northern Ireland 's death rate ( 27 per 100,000 of the population ) is similar to that of the Republic of Ireland ( 29 per 100,000 ) and significantly lower than that of Great Britain ( 43 per 100,000 ) .
A further 269 coronavirus-related deaths were confirmed across the UK on Sunday , taking its total to 31,855 .
The Republic of Ireland announced a further 12 deaths on Sunday , bringing its overall death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW How to understand the death toll • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?

Coronavirus: Plan to ease NI lockdown 'over five stages' Published 11 May 2020
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Image source, Pacemaker Image caption, The executive has already extended lockdown in NI until 28 May
The executive intends to publish a five-stage plan on Tuesday that will set out a slow easing of NI's lockdown.
Ministers have been discussing a blueprint, which will not include projected dates, for lifting some restrictions.
Setting "arbitrary timeframes" would be unhelpful, said junior minister Declan Kearney.
Downing Street has published a conditional plan to ease lockdown, but it mostly applies only in England.
Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales have their own powers to set and lift restrictions at different rates.
Speaking at the executive's daily press conference, Sinn Féin's Mr Kearney said discussions on Monday had been detailed and positive, but "further work is needed in the next 24 hours".
If the plan is signed off by the executive, the first and deputy first ministers are expected to bring it to the assembly on Tuesday for debate.
The focus on a recovery plan comes as three more Covid-19 related deaths have been recorded by the Department of Health in Northern Ireland, taking its total, mostly comprising of hospital deaths, to 438.
However, that figure is likely to be higher when all fatalities in the community are recorded.
What could Northern Ireland's recovery roadmap look like?
Ministers have said that unlike in England, where Boris Johnson has placed projected dates next to different phases of easing the lockdown, that will not happen in Northern Ireland.
"At any given moment in time we will be operating a staged approach with a three-weekly interval," said Mr Kearney.
Image source, Stephen Davison/PSNI/PA Image caption, Executive ministers have said people in Northern Ireland should still stay at home as much as possible
The executive wants "sufficient flexibility" to allow it to make modifications in line with scientific advice, as opposed to setting targeted dates that may need to be pushed back if there is another spike in cases.
There will likely only be "minor changes" announced by the executive to take effect this week, on issues such as outdoor exercise and potentially some churches being allowed to facilitate individual prayer.
Each step will be "incremental and cautious", said DUP junior minister Gordon Lyons.
"Social distancing is going to be with us for a very long time.
"Just as it has become a reality of how we shop, it will be a reality of how we work together, study together, socialise and even how we worship - it would be a grave mistake to assume we have beaten Covid-19."
A phased return of schools is not likely until September.
The executive is aware that while its own roadmap may differ from that announced by Downing Street, Northern Ireland is still reliant on Westminster for some financial support.
Many businesses in NI have availed of the government's furlough scheme, allowing employers to temporarily lay off staff while the government pays 80% of their wages during the crisis.
Why is NI taking a different approach?
As the infection has spread at different rates in various parts of the UK, Stormont ministers have said Northern Ireland must follow its own criteria and scientific advice.
The R-value - or reproduction number - is at the heart of the executive's decision to extend the lockdown until at least the end of May.
The R-number shows how many people will get infected for every one person who gets ill.
In Northern Ireland, the R-rate is sitting just below one, at 0.8-0.9, and the executive has said it must remain at a low level before restrictions can begin to be lifted.
Ministers have already extended the lockdown until 28 May, so the earliest the recovery plan could take effect from would be the beginning of June.
In England, fines for breaking lockdown rules will increase to £100 from Wednesday - but the executive has not yet decided if it will follow this approach.
How will it differ from the Republic of Ireland's plan?
The Irish government has already announced a detailed plan for bringing the Republic of Ireland slowly out of lockdown.
It also has five stages, with the first beginning on 18 May and the last phase by 10 August, if the spread of the virus is contained.
Image source, Derick Hudson Image caption, The promenade in Blackrock, County Louth, which is close to the Irish border
Phase one includes the reopening of golf courses on a restricted basis, and outdoor meetings between people from different households.
There are questions about how the Republic of Ireland's plan fits with what the NI Executive will announce.
The two jurisdictions share a 310-mile long border which people cross each day for work or leisure.
At the beginning of the lockdown, it emerged that gardaí (Irish police) had been informed they had no enforcement powers over people from Northern Ireland, who may have breached Covid-19 regulations in the Republic of Ireland.
What is NI's plan for testing?
Image source, Reuters Image caption, There have been calls for testing to be increased further across Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has been working to increase its testing capacity since the first case of the virus was confirmed in February.
Health officials say capacity has grown from 40 tests a day, to more than 2,000 tests now, with another laboratory due to start work this week.
However, testing remains limited to people who are being admitted to hospital, live in care homes or are essential workers.
In care homes, where almost half of Covid-19 deaths have been recorded so far, residents and staff are only tested where there is a suspected outbreak, or if they are new entrants to the care home sector.
It is not clear when the Executive intends to move to wider testing within the community.
What is NI's overall picture in terms of confirmed cases and deaths?
There is a considerable difference in the death tolls in the two sets of figures published in Northern Ireland.
While the Northern Ireland Statistical Research Agency recorded 516 deaths by 1 May, the Department of Health - which records deaths of patients who tested positive for coronavirus, and therefore mostly died in hospital - had recorded 365 deaths by the same date.
Nisra's toll is 35% higher because its weekly bulletin, released each Friday, records all fatalities with Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate, regardless of where the individual died and whether or not they had been tested for the virus.
So although the health department confirmed three more deaths on Sunday, taking its toll to 438, the overall death toll will be significantly higher.
The disparity between the two sets of figures has caused confusion, but the department said there was always a time lag for registering deaths in the community - which can take five days - so Nisra's report could not feasibly be linked to the daily figures.
Nisra's report on Friday showed there were 27 patients in intensive care with Covid-19 symptoms, compared to 58 a month ago.
How does NI compare to the rest of the UK and the Republic of Ireland?
Although comparisons between countries and regions are difficult due to differences in how statistics are compiled, Northern Ireland's death rate (27 per 100,000 of the population) is similar to that of the Republic of Ireland (29 per 100,000) and significantly lower than that of Great Britain (43 per 100,000).
A further 210 coronavirus-related deaths were confirmed across the UK on Monday, taking the total to 32,065.


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: French arrivals exempt from UK quarantine plans

Passengers arriving from France will be exempt from forthcoming UK coronavirus quarantine measures .
Boris Johnson said on Sunday the rules would be imposed on people coming into the UK , to prevent Covid-19 being brought in from overseas .
As yet , no start or end date for the measures has been announced .
The government has already indicated that people arriving from the Republic of Ireland will not be made to go into quarantine .
However , the measures will apply to UK holidaymakers returning from other destinations .
Travel industry analysts said that meant a one-week or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another two weeks in self-isolation .
The World Travel and Tourism Council expressed concern about the new measures , saying they would damage confidence among would-be travellers .
• What are the new travel quarantine rules ?
In his address to the nation on Sunday , the prime minister said : `` I am serving notice that it will soon be the time - with transmission significantly lower - to impose quarantine on people coming into this country by air . ''
The government later clarified that the rules would apply not just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arriving by other means of travel .
UK airlines previously said they had been told that any quarantine period would last for 14 days , and that people might be expected to provide an address when they arrive at the border .
Following Mr Johnson 's speech , No 10 confirmed a reciprocal deal with the government in Paris meant restrictions would not apply to passengers from France .
In a joint statement , the UK and French governments said they had agreed to `` work together in taking forward appropriate border measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is particularly necessary for the management of our common border . ''
The statement added : `` No quarantine measures would apply to travellers coming from France at this stage ; any measures on either side would be taken in a concerted and reciprocal manner .
`` A working group between the two governments will be set up to ensure this consultation throughout the coming weeks . ''
Willie Walsh , chief executive of British Airways owner IAG , said it was more bad news for the travel industry .
`` There 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister say yesterday , '' he told MPs on parliament 's Transport Select Committee .
When asked why travellers from France will not be quarantined over , for example , Germany , he said : `` That 's the bit I do n't understand .
`` We will have to wait and see the final details of what the Prime Minister intends to do . ''
He added that the quarantine measures will mean his company will have to review its plan to return to 50 % capacity by July , Virginia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Travel and Tourism Council , told the BBC 's Today programme she was `` concerned '' about the government 's new policy .
`` Quarantines work when implemented early , so it should have probably been applied much earlier in the UK , '' she said .
`` We believe this is going to highly damage the confidence of people who are wishing to travel or at least make some plans in the near future . ''
Ms Messina pointed out that some airports in other countries were testing passengers for the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they tested negative .
Airline and airport bosses spoke to the aviation minister on Sunday about the new measures .
However , they told the BBC that they were still in the dark over basic details such as when they would come into force , when they would end and whether they would be continuously reviewed .
Airlines are calling for additional government support after the prime minister confirmed a quarantine period will come into force .
Airlines UK chief executive Tim Alderslade said : `` We all , including government , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but closing off air travel in this way is not the way to achieve this . ''
The government faces a two-pronged attack over its travel quarantine , even though the detail on the policy is still sparse .
The pandemic is already causing acute damage to the UK 's aviation sector , and airline and airport bosses believe the quarantine will make things a whole lot worse .
They did not receive the reassurances they wanted during a call with the aviation minister earlier on Sunday .
Opposition MPs are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If now , why not before ? ''
It 's estimated that about 100,000 people have arrived in the UK since 23 March , when the lockdown was brought in .
Many people coming home in recent weeks have been left confused over whether they were supposed to self-isolate .
Government advice that people arriving from China and Italy who did n't have symptoms should stay at home for two weeks was withdrawn on 13 March .
Heathrow airport said it supported the government 's aim of avoiding a second wave of infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amounted to a temporary closure of borders .
However , the airport 's chief executive , John Holland-Kaye , said the government `` urgently '' needed to lay out a roadmap for how it would reopen borders once the disease had been beaten .
Air travel has ground to a halt because of the global coronavirus pandemic , prompting steep job cuts by the industry .
Ryanair has said it plans to axe 3,000 workers and has asked remaining staff to take a pay cut .
BA has said it will cut 12,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it might not reopen at Gatwick Airport once the pandemic passes .
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?

However, they told the BBC that they were still in the dark over basic details such as when they would come into force, when they would end and whether they would be continuously reviewed.


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Brexit: UK-EU trade talks resume ahead of June summit

Talks between the UK and EU over a post-Brexit trade deal will enter their third round later , ahead of a decisive summit next month .
Both sides are due to decide by the end of June whether the current deadline for negotiating an agreement should be extended beyond the end of December .
The UK has said it will not agree to an extension , even if the EU requests one .
The latest round of talks , to be held via video link , will end on Friday .
After the latest round in April , EU chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappointing , whilst the UK said only `` limited progress '' had been made .
There are differences between the two sides on fisheries , competition rules , police co-operation , and how a deal would be enforced .
• What happens after Brexit ?
BBC Europe Editor Katya Adler said the EU accuses the UK of concentrating on its priorities whilst going slow on issues more important to the 27-member bloc .
She added that the UK wants to first settle a core trade deal alongside deals on aviation and energy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on fishing quotas and competition rules .
She added that although the UK has ruled out extending the talks , leaving tricky areas to the autumn could be risky if coronavirus infections peak again .
Negotiations have been held using video-conferencing technology since last month after face-to-face meetings were cancelled due to the pandemic .
The UK has rejected the suggestion it is not engaging in all negotiating areas , accusing the EU of making demands not required of its other trade partners .
The UK is currently in a transition period under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , following its legal withdrawal from the bloc on 31 January .
Both sides exchanged legal text on a future trade deal in March .
After the negotiations this week , a fourth round of talks is scheduled to begin on 1 June .
Under the UK 's withdrawal agreement with the EU , both sides currently have until 31 December to ratify a trade deal and rules for future co-operation .
An extension to the December deadline should be made by the UK-EU `` joint committee '' overseeing the agreement by 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats and the SNP have both called on the UK government to extend the transition period beyond December .
Shortly after becoming Labour leader last month , Sir Keir Starmer said the UK should prolong talks beyond December if `` necessary to do so '' .
He added that the December deadline was `` going to be very , very tight , '' and he thought it `` unlikely '' the government would finish talks in time .
But the government insists it is committed to agreeing a deal by December 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for businesses .

He added that the December deadline was "going to be very, very tight," and he thought it "unlikely" the government would finish talks in time.


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Businesses want 'clear guidance' on return to work

Business groups have called for clarity on what will need to change in the workplace as Boris Johnson unveils a `` conditional plan '' to reopen society .
`` Businesses need their practical questions answered so they can plan to restart , rebuild and renew , '' said the British Chambers of Commerce .
The prime minister said those who could not work from home should be `` actively encouraged to go to work '' in England .
But he told people to avoid using public transport where possible .
`` Businesses will need to see detailed plans for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all nations across the UK and supported by clear guidance , '' said Adam Marshall , director of the British Chambers of Commerce ( BCC ) .
He added : `` It is imperative that companies have detailed advice on what will need to change in the workplace , including clarity on the use of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) . ''
Federation of Small Businesses national chairman Mike Cherry said : `` Tackling this virus and ending the threat to public health remain absolutely paramount .
But it is also necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future of work and business .
`` Small businesses will need time to adapt after the workplace guidance is published , and for smaller businesses it must be proportionate and focused on the overall outcome of maintaining safe working environments , achieved as straightforwardly as possible . ''
In a televised address , Mr Johnson said he wanted those in the construction and manufacturing industries to return to work this week .
Caution was , however , urged by other trade groups , such as the Institute of Directors ( IoD ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it was vital the guidance was clear so that companies could plan how to return safely .
`` As people with ultimate legal responsibility , directors need to have confidence that it 's safe , and that if they act responsibly they wo n't be at undue risk .
Businesses should consult with their people to put in place robust policies , which in many cases might not be an overnight process . ''
Carolyn Fairbairn , the director general of the Confederation of British Industry ( CBI ) said businesses were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy back on its feet '' .
`` But they also know putting health first is the only sustainable route to economic recovery .
The message of continued vigilance is right , '' she said .
Commenting on the prime minister 's address , she said : `` This announcement marks the start of a long process .
While stopping work was necessarily fast and immediate , restarting will be slower and more complex .
It must go hand in hand with plans for schools , transport , testing and access to PPE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roadmap , with dates they can plan for . ''
Very little has changed in terms of the regulations and prohibitions first announced in March .
The lockdown remains .
Closed shops , for example , wo n't reopen .
What we did get was a `` change of emphasis '' - that people should assume they should go back to work , rather than presume they should not .
Some in government and in industry fear that the `` stay at home '' message has now deeply embedded itself in the minds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister 's replacement of that message with `` stay alert '' in England is designed to get businesses to use the existing discretion in the lockdown regulations .
The practicalities of that are not easy , however , with business groups and unions not agreeing on what constitutes a `` Covid-safe '' workplace .
The government acknowledges that there wo n't be enough public transport options for people to return to work .
Many workers will also face problems with childcare .
On top of that , to the extent that some industries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perhaps some forms of hospitality by July , any increase in the rate of infection could see the brakes applied quickly .
The path ahead will be a delicate , difficult and constant balancing act between health and the economy .
For now , the economy is definitively second priority .
During his address , Mr Johnson added that workplaces would receive guidance on how to become `` Covid secure '' .
Frances O'Grady , general secretary of the Trades Union Congress , called for those guidelines to be published .
BBC News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to social distancing where it is not possible were among measures being considered to let workplaces reopen .
One of seven draft plans to ease anti-coronavirus restrictions , seen by the BBC , also urged employers to minimise numbers using equipment , stagger shift times and maximise home-working .
Many companies have been shut since widespread limits on everyday life were imposed on 23 March , in a bid to limit the effects of the virus 's spread on the NHS .
As a result , the government is now paying the wages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under a programme aimed at helping people put on leave due to the virus pandemic .
Under the job retention scheme , it funds 80 % of workers ' wages , up to £2,500 a month .
On Sunday , business groups also urged caution when it came to any future withdrawal of the support .
Adam Marshall of the BCC added : `` Firms will also need to know that government support schemes , which have helped save millions of jobs in recent weeks , will continue for as long as they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead with confidence . ''
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
Are you planning to return to work this week following lockdown ?
Share your stories by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
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"As people with ultimate legal responsibility, directors need to have confidence that it's safe, and that if they act responsibly they won't be at undue risk. Businesses should consult with their people to put in place robust policies, which in many cases might not be an overnight process."


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Prison watchdog 'concerned' at HMP Wayland meeting ban

A prison watchdog barred from healthcare meetings said it was `` very concerned '' and had `` a right to attend '' .
The Independent Monitoring Board ( IMB ) at HMP Wayland in Norfolk claims it has been `` prevented '' from attending meetings on health service provision .
The board raised the issue in its annual report and said it planned to escalate its concerns .
The Ministry of Justice ( MoJ ) said it had been excluded because `` commercially sensitive '' matters were discussed .
In its report , the IMB said the decision to ban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change in healthcare provider at the 1,000-capacity men ’ s prison , near Thetford .
The report said : `` It is to be regretted that since the change of healthcare provider , the IMB has been excluded from attending healthcare meetings , in contravention of our right to attend any meetings .
`` Consequently , it has been difficult to monitor healthcare as closely as we should like and to get accurate healthcare statistics . ''
IMBs comprise independent , unpaid volunteers who monitor day-to-day life at prisons to ensure proper standards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wayland IMB chairman Mike Gander told the BBC : `` We are very concerned at our exclusion and we are thinking of taking this to a high level within Her Majesty ’ s Prison and Probation Service . ''
He said the IMB only wanted to attend the meetings as observers .
He questioned the cited concerns over `` commercial sensitivity '' , claiming a number of providers were present at the meetings - which cover health provision at three Norfolk prisons - meaning they were unlikely to disclose sensitive information in front @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said , IMB members were required to sign the Official Secrets Act , meaning they would not share such information , even if it was raised .
The BBC asked the MoJ whether the IMB had a right to attend , and whether it accepted monitoring healthcare and having accurate healthcare statistics was an important part of the IMB ’ s role .
The MoJ has yet to respond in detail , but did say the IMB should have access to minutes of healthcare meetings and relevant healthcare data .
Find BBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Instagram and Twitter .
If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews @ bbc.co.uk

The report said: "It is to be regretted that since the change of healthcare provider, the IMB has been excluded from attending healthcare meetings, in contravention of our right to attend any meetings.


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Lockdown update: What are the new rules set out by Boris Johnson?

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced his plans to restart the economy and ease lockdown restrictions in England .
But how could everyday life change ?
Can more people go back to work ?
• From Wednesday , people in England who `` ca n't work from home '' will be `` actively encouraged to go to work '' ( the government had earlier indicated this would apply from Monday ) • But they should still avoid public transport if possible because of social distancing • And the government says it is working on guidance for employers to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposals to bring UK businesses out of lockdown suggested hot-desking would no longer continue .
Companies will also need to look at staggering shifts , rethink how equipment is shared and plan safe walking routes for staff - in offices , on factory floors and at building sites .
The issue of how businesses can secure personal protective equipment without competing with the NHS has raised concerns .
And unions say employers must be compelled to protect staff .
When will schools and universities return ?
• Mr Johnson says primary schools in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in stages '' - but not until 1 June at the earliest • This could begin with Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 pupils going back • The prime minister also says it 's the government 's `` ambition '' to give secondary school pupils doing exams next year `` at least some time with their teachers '' before the summer holidays The Welsh government has ruled out school reopenings happening on 1 June .
Scotland 's First Minister , Nicola Sturgeon , has said she does not expect schools to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No detail is available on how school reopening would work in England .
But there has been speculation previously that measures to keep pupils and teachers safe could include : • groups of pupils attending on different days Meanwhile , there is uncertainty over whether students will be able to go to university in person in September or whether they will be taught partially or completely online .
Can you meet friends and relatives ?
The new guidelines are expected to say that two people from different households would be able to meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they stay more than two metres apart .
Will people be able to exercise more ?
• From Wednesday , people in England will be able to spend more time outdoors `` for leisure purposes '' • They can `` take more and even unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise '' rather than only exercising once a day • People will also be free to sit in parks , and be able to `` play sports '' with people from the same household • It will also be possible for households to drive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and beaches ) in England • But social distancing rules - keeping at least two metres away from people outside your household - must still be followed And Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden says sports like golf , basketball , tennis and fishing will now be possible for people in the same household .
The Welsh and Scottish governments have said people can exercise outdoors more than once a day from Monday .
How will the virus threat be publicised ?
• A `` Covid alert system '' , with the level of danger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most critical - will be introduced , Mr Johnson said • This will determine how `` tough '' social distancing measures need to be - the lower the number the more they will be relaxed , and vice-versa • The UK is currently at Level 4 When can I go shopping again ?
• The prime minister says the `` phased reopening '' of shops - other than food stores and other `` essential '' outlets - may begin in England on 1 June , at the earliest • This will only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followed Garden centres in Wales will open from Monday .
Decisions are awaited in Scotland and Northern Ireland .
Mr Johnson made no mention of garden centres in England in his speech .
Some DIY stores , meanwhile , have already reopened - but they are accepting card payments only and have shorter trading hours .
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?
What about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cinemas ?
• Mr Johnson says the government `` hopes '' to reopen `` at least some of the hospitality industry and other public places '' in England but this will happen later than for shops and schools - by July at the earliest • This will also depend on scientific advice and the possibility of keeping to social distancing measures Draft government guidance previously seen by BBC News had said bar areas , seated areas in restaurants and cafes must remain closed even as the economy is opened up - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson says it will `` soon be the time '' - with coronavirus transmission rates falling - to impose quarantine on people coming to the UK by air No more detail was given in Mr Johnson 's speech on what form this quarantine would take or how it would be enforced .
Overall , social distancing is a big challenge for airports and airlines , with Heathrow boss John Holland-Kaye saying it is `` physically impossible '' .
EasyJet plans to leave middle seats empty , but Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There has been speculation that air passengers may have to : • arrive up to four hours before departure , for health screening UK airlines say they have been told by the government that people arriving in the UK from any country other than the Republic of Ireland from the end of this month will have to self-isolate for 14 days - Mr Johnson did not give this much detail in his speech .
Trade body Airlines UK says such a move would `` effectively kill air travel '' .
Meanwhile , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays at home or abroad until social distancing rules are relaxed .

If you test positive for Covid you are no longer legally required to self-isolate, but you are advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days.


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: When will schools reopen?

Coronavirus: When will schools reopen?

Schools across the UK have been closed to most pupils since the end of March .
When - and how - will they return to anything approaching normal again ?
Will schools reopen before the summer holidays ?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Sunday that primary schools in England might start to reopen from 1 June at the earliest .
Any reopening would be conditional on both the R number , which is the virus 's reproduction rate , and the number of new infections staying low .
He said pupils in Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Johnson added : `` Our ambition is that secondary pupils facing exams next year will get at least some time with their teachers before the holidays . ''
No mention was made about any changes affecting nurseries .
However , there are no plans to reopen schools yet in the rest of the UK .
Wales 's Education Minister Kirsty Williams has said schools in Wales will not reopen on 1 June .
In Scotland , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said any return to school `` might not be possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start at the end of June there .
Northern Ireland 's First Minister Arlene Foster said it was unlikely that schools would return before the new academic year which - as in Scotland - begins a week or so earlier than in England and Wales .
A phased return could mean that a few year groups would be the first to return to school , or that pupils would take turns to study at home and in school .
This would allow schools to maintain some level of social distancing .
It might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ limits on class sizes .
A phased return may also mean that some pupils will not return until the autumn term - or at least for anything like a regular timetable .
Coronavirus rarely seems to affect children , and some academics have questioned whether school closures have had any impact on controlling the virus .
However , the government 's chief medical officer , Prof Chris Whitty , responded that while schools were `` not dangerous '' for children during the pandemic , the decision to close them would slow the rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to manage social distancing , any school seeking to reopen has to consider other questions : • Should children return to school if they live with family members who are vulnerable to Covid-19 ?
• How many vulnerable staff would need to be shielded ?
• What protective equipment might be needed for teachers ?
Which pupils should be the first to return ?
Robert Halfon MP , who chairs the Education Select Committee , thinks primary schools should be the first back .
This would help parents and stop disadvantaged youngsters falling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ argues .
But Geoff Barton , of the head teachers ' union , says the priority should be Years 10 and 12 , who are due to sit GCSEs and A-levels next year , and Year 6 , where children are about to move to secondary school .
Others say it should be up to each school to decide the order in which its pupils return .
Denmark was the first European country to start allowing children up to the age of 11 back to school .
Germany has also partially reopened schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with others to follow later in the term .
Primary schools and nurseries in France will reopen on Monday , with schools for 11 to 15-year-olds following a week later .
Schools for 15 to 18-year-olds will open in June .
Schools in the Republic of Ireland will not reopen until August , while Italy and Spain are to keep their schools shut until September .
Schools , nurseries and childminders in the UK are still providing care for children whose parents are key workers `` critical to the Covid-19 response '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cared for at home .
They are also providing care for children who are known to be vulnerable - those with a social worker , for example , or those with special educational needs .
The most recent figures ( 30 April ) show that 191,000 children are currently attending school - 2 % of those who normally attend .
Of that figure , 58,000 are classed as vulnerable .
How are children currently being educated at home ?
Schools have tried to continue a limited curriculum online , relying on parents and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents should not be expected to do the teacher 's job , but they can try to maintain a routine of learning and study habits - even if it 's only for an hour or two a day .
To support home learning , the BBC has also launched a major programme of expanded educational content on its BBC Bitesize service , including regular daily lessons in English , Maths and other core subjects .
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
Summer exams have been cancelled in England , Wales and Scotland .
This includes GCSEs and A-levels in England and Wales , plus primary school Sats national curriculum tests in England .
In Scotland , Highers and Nationals will not be going ahead .
Exam watchdogs have been working together on alternative arrangements .
Have you been affected by the school closures due to coronavirus ?
Please get in touch by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You can also contact us in the following ways : • Please read our terms of use and privacy policy When will children go back to school ?

How are Covid rules changing across UK schools? Published 23 February 2022
Image source, Getty Images
All remaining Covid restrictions have now been scrapped in English schools.
Rules have also been eased elsewhere in the UK, but some measures are being retained for the moment.
How are the Covid rules changing in schools?
The legal requirement to self-isolate after a positive test is also being removed, although it is still recommended.
Head teachers groups have warned that the changes to testing and self-isolation "may actually lead to an increase in disruption", as Covid is more likely to spread in the classroom, leading to further pupil and staff absence.
Image source, Getty Images
All school staff and secondary school pupils in Scotland and Northern Ireland are still asked to take two lateral flow tests (LFTs) a week (three in Wales).
In Wales, schools are largely back to normal. Face coverings will no longer be required in classrooms after 28 February, but should still be worn in communal areas of secondary schools.
In Northern Ireland, schools reopened with the same measures as last term. If a primary or post-primary class has multiple Covid cases, all pupils should take an LFT. The guidance that pupils in post-primary schools should wear face coverings still applies.
In Scotland, social distancing remains in place. However, pupils will no longer have to wear masks in school from 28 February.
How many teachers and pupils are off because of Covid?
The latest data for England shows that 182,000 pupils (2.2%) of pupils were absent for Covid-related reasons on 10 February, down from 320,000 (3.9%) on 3 February.
On the same date, 2.8% of teachers and school leaders and 2.5% of teaching assistants and other staff were absent due to Covid, down from 4.4% and 4.1% respectively the previous week.
Almost half England's schools (45%) had one in 20 teachers absent due to Covid.
In Scotland on 17 February, 12,638 students (2.4%) were missing from school due to Covid-related reasons. The highest absence rate this year was seen on 7 January, when 43,565 students (14.1%) were off.
In Northern Ireland, 5.2% of students, 9% of teachers and 11% of classroom assistants in schools were absent due to Covid over the week 24 to 28 January - the highest rates since the new term began.
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Many schools have told the BBC they have struggled to find temporary staff to cover the teachers who are off.
England's Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi urged retired teachers to return and join teacher supply agencies to fill gaps, but a BBC survey suggested there had been a limited response.
Mr Zahawi also suggested schools could merge classes. But teaching unions said there were logistical difficulties and safety issues with teaching large groups of children.
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Can a child go to school if they or someone in their household or class has Covid?
After Thursday 24 February, people in England with Covid will no longer have a legal obligation to self-isolate.
However, people who test positive will still be advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days, including school staff and students.
The legal requirement to self-isolate remains in place across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
As long as they don't have Covid symptoms, under-18s already don't have to self-isolate if someone else in their household has Covid.
Similarly, whole classes are no longer automatically sent home to isolate if a pupil or teacher tests positive.
However, close contacts aged five or above are strongly advised to test for at least seven days.
All primary and post-primary pupils in Northern Ireland are advised to take an LFT if there are multiple Covid cases in their class.
Which pupils are being vaccinated?
All children aged five to 11 in the UK will be offered a low-dose vaccine, which is being rolled out on a "non-urgent" basis.
It's expected to be offered in England in April, and plans are also under way in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In addition:
the low-dose vaccine is already being offered to five to 11-year-olds with medical conditions that put them at greater risk
all children aged 12 and over are being offered two doses of the Pfizer jab
sixteen and 17-year-olds who had a second vaccine dose at least three months ago can have a booster
the JCVI has also recommended that the booster is also offered to children aged 12-15 who are in an at-risk group or live with someone who is immunosuppressed
Children who aren't at high risk from Covid should wait 12 weeks after a positive test before having a jab.
How will exams work this year?
Grades will again be decided by external marking, instead of the teacher assessments used in 2020 and 2021, but grade boundaries will be more lenient in England, Wales and Scotland.
English exam boards have published details about this year's GCSE, AS and A-level papers for most subjects, including maths, biology, chemistry and languages.
Students taking GCSE exams in English Literature, geography, history and ancient history won't have to answer questions on one option from their course.
In maths and science exams, students will be given sheets of formulae and equations.
Students taking vocational B-Tec qualifications will have fewer internal assessments.


bbcuk--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: What are the new travel quarantine rules?

A two-week quarantine period is expected to come into force for anyone arriving in the UK from abroad - except those travelling from the Republic of Ireland or France .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed the measure will soon be imposed to try to prevent imported coronavirus cases infecting the population , but he did not address the length of the quarantine period or how it will be enforced .
Some airports are also introducing new rules on face coverings and gloves .
And Eurostar passengers are now required to cover their faces .
So what do you need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go abroad during the Covid-19 pandemic ?
What are the new quarantine rules ?
UK airlines and airports say they have been told the measures will come in at the end of May .
In a speech to the nation , Mr Johnson said he was `` serving notice '' that the quarantine measures would come in soon , but did not give a more detailed timeframe .
He added that the UK 's falling infection rate meant introducing quarantine would now be more effective and prevent `` reinfection from abroad '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a joint statement saying quarantine measures do not apply `` at this stage '' to those crossing between the two countries .
It is expected that all other passengers arriving in the UK would have to self-isolate for 14 days at a private residence .
Key workers such as lorry drivers who transport goods and people working in the shipping industry are expected to be exempt .
Speaking ahead of an official announcement , industry body Airlines UK said the policy needed `` a credible exit plan '' and should be reviewed weekly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have devastating impact on their industry and the wider economy .
What about face masks , gloves and temperature checks ?
People travelling through Manchester , Stansted and East Midlands airports will now be told to cover their faces and wear gloves .
Passengers will be given face coverings and gloves initially .
Airport staff will also wear them .
Manchester Airports Group , which owns the sites , said the measure will show `` one way in which air travel can be made safe '' .
Some temperature screening trials will also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the world 's busiest airports , is already trialling large-scale temperature checks .
Chief executive John Holland-Kaye has called for a common international standard for health screening at airports `` to build confidence in international travel '' .
Air France says passengers will be temperature checked before flying from 11 May .
The carrier is also making face masks compulsory - similar to several US airlines .
What about social distancing on flights ?
Aer Lingus has said it will review procedures following a claim it did not maintain social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EasyJet has said it plans to keep the middle seats on planes empty for a time once UK lockdown restrictions are lifted .
Emirates and the US airline Delta have announced similar plans .
But Michael O'Leary , the boss of Ryanair , has said empty seats do not ensure safe social distancing and are financially unviable .
The International Air Transport Association ( IATA ) , the body representing global airlines , says leaving the middle seat empty would not improve passenger safety .
It says most airlines would not have made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the seats had been removed .
How many people are still flying ?
Far fewer people are flying since the Foreign Office advised against international travel .
Between 16 and 22 April , for example , the number of air passengers coming into the UK was 99 % lower than the same period in 2019 .
American Airlines said social distancing had been possible `` for all passengers '' , suggesting that its aircraft have a lot of empty seats .
And Virgin Atlantic said many of its flights in April were only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carried 40,000 passengers in April - down from 13.5 million in the same month last year .
If you have to fly , it 's a common belief that you are more likely to become ill on an aeroplane , because you 're breathing `` stale '' air .
However , according to the World Health Organization , the quality of air in a plane cabin is very carefully controlled and changed up to 30 times an hour .
However , there is a greater likelihood of the virus being transmitted if passengers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result of an infected individual coughing , sneezing or touching surfaces .
This is the same as in any other situation in which people are close to each other , such as on a train or a bus .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
Public Health England says passengers should sit as far apart as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Centre - which was set up by the Department of Health - offers the following advice : • Avoid moving from your seat unnecessarily , but exercise your legs ( flex and extend the ankles ) to encourage blood flow • Only use the designated toilet for your area and wash your hands before leaving • If you start to feel unwell , stay in your seat and speak to the air crew You should not be travelling if you are unwell , or if you have tested positive for Covid-19 .

What Covid tests do I still need to travel abroad? Published 11 February 2022
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Fully vaccinated people travelling to the UK no longer have to take any Covid tests - either before departure or on arrival.
The prime minister has announced that he intends to remove England's remaining Covid restrictions at the end of the month.
What changes have come into force for vaccinated travellers?
Fully vaccinated travellers (two doses) and under-18s no longer need to take a test either before or after they arrive in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
To qualify as vaccinated, non-UK travellers must have received their jabs in a country or territory with "approved proof of vaccination". This now covers most countries in the world, with more - including China - due to join on 11 February.
What if I'm unvaccinated?
Unvaccinated travellers still have to show proof of a negative Covid test taken two days before departure.
They must also take a post-arrival PCR test two days after arrival. This must be booked before travelling to the UK and bought privately from a government-approved list of providers.
If this is positive, they need to self-isolate.
However, unvaccinated travellers no longer have to self-isolate on arrival, or take a test on day eight.
What other rules are still in force?
All unvaccinated travellers to the UK must complete a passenger locator form before departure.
How do I prove vaccinations and test results at the UK border?
Digital Covid passes showing your vaccination status can be downloaded to your phone, whether you're in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Test results can be in the form of a printed document, or an email or text on your phone. They must be in English, French or Spanish.
European Union residents can use the EU Digital Covid Certificate to show their vaccination status or test results.
Since 3 February, 12 to 15-year-olds in England have also been able to prove their vaccination status via the digital NHS pass.
What about other countries' rules?
You are responsible for checking the entry requirements for any other countries you wish to visit, as well as the local Covid restrictions which are in force. These can change quickly.
Many UK families have cancelled half-term trips to mainland Spain and the Canary Islands because children over 12 must be double vaccinated to enter.
Very few countries allow unrestricted access to those who have not been vaccinated.
It is thought more than 80 holiday destinations around the world still require all UK travellers to take a pre-departure PCR test before arrival.
UK-issued Covid passes can be used throughout the EU to show proof of vaccination - either digitally, or as a printed download (as long as it is dated after than 1 November 2021).


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: 'I am shutting the world out to protect myself'

Scott Breslin has become apprehensive about leaving his bedroom since Covid-19 forced the country into lockdown .
The student is paralysed from the neck down and feels like a prisoner in his Glasgow home .
For the last seven weeks Mr Breslin , 35 , has been shielded from his family and has only had personal contact with his 24-hour care team .
He said : `` I am just trying to shut the world out to protect myself .
I 'm in my own wee bubble . ''
Mr Breslin told BBC Scotland the pandemic has caused him heightened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon as I start talking about coronavirus I get knots in my stomach .
It affects your eating and your sleeping as well .
`` There is a fear of leaving my room , just in case . ''
Before the restrictions were introduced Mr Breslin visited his father Mark , who lives 100 yards away , every day and they watched Countdown together .
He was also training to be a counsellor and had an active social life .
Now he only gets up for a few hours on alternate days and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 15:00 .
But despite his new routine , which he compares to the movie Groundhog Day , he is wary of the restrictions being eased too soon .
Mr Breslin said : `` I would rather they remained in place than more people dying .
`` The second wave of Spanish flu wiped out more than the first .
You are supposed to learn from your mistakes , not repeat them .
`` I would rather be safe and alive than outside and dead . ''
Mr Breslin was only 16 when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from a party in the city 's Cardonald area in the summer of 2001 .
The unprovoked attack severed his spinal cord and left him unable to move his arms or legs .
He later worked with the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit to highlight the devastating impact of knife crime .
Before lockdown three carers worked daily shifts in his flat in Penilee , where he has lived for the last 14 years .
But to minimise the risk of infection one now stays overnight and wears full personal protective equipment ( PPE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said : `` They are there just to be my hands , legs and everything I need to survive .
`` My care team has been great and they have been the ones who have kept me going through all this .
The only thing that has come out positive is how much they have supported me .
`` It would be a choice of this or going into a care home and I do n't fancy being in one of them the now . ''
Despite initial shortages of hand sanitiser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not experienced any issues obtaining PPE .
The Scottish Independent Living Fund has also provided extra funding so they can get taxis instead of using public transport .
For shopping , he relies on his sister and food packages .
Mr Breslin received a shielding letter from the Scottish government , which told him to stay indoors for 12 weeks .
He said : `` That 's when my release date is .
It feels like I am in a prison .
`` It is just surreal .
It is kind of like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You are watching stuff on the TV but nothing is happening outside . ''
Mr Breslin 's father is also shielding , as he suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder ( COPD ) .
And he said not seeing his loved ones and missing occasions , such as his niece 's birthday , was the hardest thing to come to terms with .
Mr Breslin stays connected on WhatsApp and Facebook , enjoys listening to Radio X and is grateful for online streaming services .
He said : `` Money Heist is probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That 's really good .
`` If this happened 20 years ago we would not have these phones , the internet and Netflix .
We would be stuck watching our five channels . ''
Another positive is that he is eating more fruit and vegetables and no takeaway food .
Mr Breslin added : `` That 's the only thing I can really do , to be honest .
I ca n't go out a jog or anything like that .
`` I am quite limited because of my lack of movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the house once since 23 March , to attend an essential appointment at the Southern General 's spinal unit .
Mr Breslin put on a mask and visor before before beingdriven to the hospital and admits he was so anxious throughout the whole experience that he went straight to his room when he got home .
Looking ahead , he is worried about the lockdown being eased too soon and fears the public are now not taking it as seriously as they should .
He said : `` I see people stopping in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I want to shout 'social distancing ' out the window . ''
Mr Breslin plans to resume his studies in Glasgow when it is safe to do so .
But , unlike many at the moment , he is optimistic about his future job prospects as a drugs and alcohol counsellor .
He joked : `` There will be plenty of work after this . ''

"My care team has been great and they have been the ones who have kept me going through all this. The only thing that has come out positive is how much they have supported me.


bbcuk--2020-05-11--Coronavirus: Do I have to go back to work after lockdown?

The government has started easing lockdown restrictions , with more people now encouraged to start returning to work .
But for many , concerns remain about the risk of contracting the coronavirus once back in the workplace .
Can you be forced back to work and what are your rights if you are ?
What has the government said ?
On Sunday evening in a pre-recorded address , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that those who could not work from home should be `` actively encouraged to go to work '' in England .
Mr Johnson singled out people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not work from home , who should return to building sites and factories .
But he told people to avoid using public transport where possible .
The devolved governments of Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland are sticking with the government 's former mantra of : `` Stay at home '' and not encouraging a return to work .
I 'm in an at-risk group , will I have to go back to work ?
The 1.5 million people in England classified as being at high-risk if they catch coronavirus were advised not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 23 March .
They included people who have received organ transplants or are on immunosuppression drugs .
Faye Law , senior adviser and conciliator at the Advisory , Conciliation and Arbitration Service ( Acas ) says these people , and millions of others considered extremely vulnerable , are not expected to return to their workplace .
Wherever possible they should work from home or be furloughed under the government scheme which currently pays 80 % of an employee 's salary up to £2,500 a month .
Separately , people who are at-risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the government encouraging them to shield for 12 weeks - could have to return to work , but Ms Law says their employer should ensure strict social distancing rules are in place .
But employment law expert Simon Rice-Birchall , from Eversheds Sutherland , says companies will be able to insist workers return to their workplaces once government changes .
Although he thinks it would be difficult for an employer to force people to return to an office if they have shown that they can do their job from home .
Those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be entitled to sick pay if they choose to stay at home because they are worried about contracting the virus , he says .
`` Somebody that 's vulnerable at home is n't sick , '' he says .
Can my boss make me work during lockdown ?
At the moment , government advice to work from home effectively overrides the content of most employment contracts , which require us to go to work , says Mr Rice-Birchall .
But David D'Souza from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development says his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to work .
`` That is of huge concern in terms of people 's physical and mental wellbeing , '' he says .
`` And whilst it 's understandable that organisations are trying to sustain themselves , doing that by having people working under conditions of duress is not what you would want to see in a modern economy .
`` Any return to work should only be done if these criteria can be met : It 's necessary , it 's safe , and it 's mutually agreed '' .
Tim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , says forcing people to return to work like that could put employers on the wrong side of the law .
For example , you 're not required to work if you hold `` a reasonable belief that there 's a serious and imminent threat '' to your health , he says .
He thinks that would apply where an employer is not following public health guidelines .
Am I more likely to be made redundant if I accept furlough ?
Bosses and junior staff alike have been asked to accept pay cuts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the crisis .
Some firms have forced staff to choose between working for 80 % of their salary or being furloughed .
Despite the strains the crisis has put on working parents , many have chosen to continue working for less money fearing that allowing themselves to be furloughed could increase the risk of being made redundant if the economy does not pick up once the lockdown is lifted .
But employers could face allegations of discrimination if they only keep on staff who worked through the crisis , according to Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indirectly discriminates on the basis of disability , because people might be more likely to choose furlough as an option because they 've got an underlying health condition , '' she says .
`` Or it might also be sex discrimination because it 's more likely the case that it 's the woman in a household that stays at home with the children . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• STRESS : How to look after your mental health Which workers are likely to return to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ construction workers and those on factory lines back to work was expected , in part because those roles are simply impossible to do remotely .
Workers in those sectors will likely to return to work in the coming days and weeks , according to Charlie Netherton , from Marsh Risk Consulting .
At the other end of the spectrum , professional services firms have proved they can operate quite effectively with the majority working from home .
As a result , Mr Netherton says the government is not likely to prioritise getting office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the picture becomes complicated in the entertainment and retail sectors , because it is unclear when people will feel comfortable returning to shops , bars and restaurants .
`` I suspect a number of people will be cautious , '' Mr Netherton says questioning whether it would be economically viable for restaurants to open their doors again , even if they were allowed to do so .
`` Retail organisations are keen to start selling again , the challenge they have is understanding when the customers will return , '' says Mr D'Souza @ @ @ @

Should I be working from home now? Published 31 January 2022
Image source, Getty Images
Scotland and England have lifted their guidance to work from home.
However, people in Northern Ireland and Wales are still advised to work remotely where possible.
What are the work from home rules?
In England the government is no longer asking people to work from home. It had previously asked people to do so, to help tackle the spread of Omicron.
In Scotland, similar guidance has now been relaxed. The government wants firms to let workers return gradually - allowing them to spend some time in the office and some time at home.
In Northern Ireland, current guidance is to work from home where you can. Offices no longer need to take reasonable measures for 2m (6ft) social distancing, although risk assessments should still be carried out.
In Wales, the government says it remains important to work from home if you can. A legal restriction to work from home unless unavoidable - with £60 fines for anyone who did not comply - has been scrapped.
What do firms have to do to keep workers safe?
Employers are asked to follow official safety guidance and carry out Covid risk assessments for those staff who are in the office.
Safety measures can include:
improving ventilation
additional cleaning
turning away people with Covid
There is more detailed advice for some industries - including construction, hospitality and manufacturing, plus specific advice for employers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Face-coverings remain mandatory for staff and customers in shops and on public transport across the UK, apart from England.
Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland have Covid passport schemes which are partly designed to protect staff who work in hospitality and events.
If employees feel unsafe, they can raise concerns with their local authority, Citizens Advice or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Does working from home help stop Covid?
Working from home is one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure to Covid, according to the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage).
It greatly limits face-to-face contact - both with colleagues and on public transport.
How safe is commuting by public transport?
Much of the risk depends on how crowded it is and your distance from other people.
Wearing a mask helps, as does keeping windows open, and avoiding peak journey times where possible.
How many people have been working from home?