bbcuk--2020-03-10--Post Office IT system that ruined lives 'still faulty', MPs told

A faulty till system that led to sub-postmasters being wrongly accused of stealing money is still not working properly , MPs have been told .
Hundreds of sub-postmasters have been prosecuted , forced to repay thousands of pounds , and in some cases jailed .
But the shortfalls in their branch accounts were caused by software bugs , the Commons Business Committee heard .
The Post Office insists the glitches have been fixed - but MPs heard claims to the contrary .
Former sub-postmistress Wendy Buffrey said : `` I am not confident that it is still working the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am not confident that it is robust - the Post Office really like to use that word .
Robust now means to me 'broken ' . ''
• 'Decade of hell ' for postmasters accused of fraud Ms Buffrey is one of 550 former sub-postmasters and mistresses to have won a legal battle with the Post Office in December 2019 over the Horizon software system .
The Post Office agreed to a £57.8m settlement - but most of that will go on legal fees .
The 550 claimants will find out next week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be divided up .
Many of them are also applying to the Criminal Cases Review commission to have their convictions overturned .
They are calling for an independent judge-led inquiry into the scandal , arguing that it is the only way the Post Office can restore public confidence in its business .
`` By destroying the postmasters they have got , they have destroyed their own post office network , '' Ms Buffrey told MPs .
She said she was sceptical about Boris Johnson 's apparent commitment to an inquiry , made at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in response to a question from Labour MP Kate Osborne .
The prime minister said he would be `` be happy to commit to getting to the bottom of the matter '' in the way Ms Osborne was recommending .
`` If he had said 'yes ' that would have been great but he did the usual politicians ' thing , he skirted around it , '' Ms Buffrey told MPs . '
I had n't actually done anything wrong' • Former sub-postmaster Wendy Buffrey broke down as she told MPs how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home to pay the £36,000 she was alleged to have stolen • The Post Office dropped the theft charge when the case came to court , but she was convicted of false accounting and sentenced to 150 hours community service • Another woman , Tracy Felstead , who worked at a Post Office counter , told MPs she lost her job and was prosecuted for allegedly stealing £11,500 • She was sentenced to six months in Holloway prison , but served three • Both women are now seeking to get their convictions overturned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fury , national officer of the Communication Workers Union , said the Post Office 's culture had been to `` defend Horizon at all costs '' when it was clear `` something had gone wrong '' .
He told MPs somebody at the Post Office now had to be held to account for this `` national scandal '' because `` people 's lives have been ruined '' .
He also voiced concerns about ongoing problems with the Horizon software , which is supplied by Fujitsu , saying : `` On our social media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's a daily occurrence that something is going wrong with the current system . ''
Some sub-postmasters were faced with huge , unexplained discrepancies in their till balances at the end of the working day , in cases over the past 10 years or more .
The Post Office accused them of stealing the money and told them that under their contracts they had to pay it back out of their own pockets .
But in December 's High Court judgment , Mr Justice Fraser said there was a `` material risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faults in the Horizon IT system , which was introduced in 1999 .
Campaigners claim the Post Office - which is a prosecuting authority in its own right and does not have to go through the Crown Prosecution Service - had made little effort to investigate the cases and instead concentrated all its efforts on recovering the money .
Alan Bates , founder of the Justice for Sub-postmasters Alliance said : `` They can act as judge , jury and executioner .
They always have done , in a very high-handed way .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced to pay back money had not yet come forward , because of concerns about how they would be treated .
The Post Office says it will shortly be announcing details of a compensation scheme `` for current and former postmasters , who were not part of the group litigation settlement , who believe they have experienced past shortfalls related to the computer system '' .
A Post Office spokesperson said : `` The High Court found Horizon has improved over time and the current system is robust , relative to comparable systems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further improvements and to re-set our relationship with postmasters to work in a genuine commercial partnership .
`` Extensive changes have been made to support for the postmasters and staff who undertake tens of millions transactions a week for customers through our 11,500 Post Offices .
`` Personalised support is now provided , with dedicated case handlers if there are issues that ca n't be immediately resolved . ''
Post Office representatives are due to give evidence to the Business , Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee inquiry on 24 March .

Campaigners claim the Post Office - which is a prosecuting authority in its own right and does not have to go through the Crown Prosecution Service - had made little effort to investigate the cases and instead concentrated all its efforts on recovering the money.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Kaden Reddick: Topshop queue barrier death was accident

A 10-year-old boy who was killed by a falling queue barrier at a Topshop store died accidentally , a coroner has said .
Kaden Reddick , from Reading , suffered a fatal head injury when it fell on him at the town 's Oracle shopping centre on 13 February 2017 .
The inquest previously heard he had been swinging on the 110kg structure moments before .
The court was told Kaden , from Burghfield , had been to the cinema with his two siblings and mother before going to the store during the half-term holidays .
Witness Niamh Gillespie described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of the MDF barrier , which doubled as a display unit .
Kaden 's swinging caused the barrier to tip and fall on to his head , jurors heard .
He was confirmed dead at the Royal Berkshire Hospital a short time later .
The inquest heard there had been two previous incidents , in Manchester in 2015 and in Glasgow , in which customers had been injured by falling Topshop barriers .
Following the second in February 2017 , a week before Kaden 's death , the company asked managers to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
Reading branch manager Martin Tull responded `` no '' but later said he `` did n't test the barriers for movement in any way '' , the inquest heard .
The MDF barrier was fixed to a concrete floor by four screws , the hearing was told .
Coroner Alison McCormick said the death had been accidental .
She told the boy 's family : `` Kaden 's death has touched all of us in this court but for you , as you 've said , [ it ] has left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a void that can never be filled . ''
Barristers told the hearing the case may result in criminal proceedings .

She told the boy's family: "Kaden's death has touched all of us in this court but for you, as you've said, [it] has left an enormous hole in your lives, a void that can never be filled."


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Flybe plane seized by Isle of Man government due to 'outstanding debts'

An aircraft owned by collapsed airline Flybe has been impounded by the Manx government until the company 's outstanding debts @ @ @ @ @ of Man 's treasury minister has said .
Alfred Cannan said the airline owed the @ @ @ @ @ in landing fees as well as air passenger duty ( APD ) from February .
@ @ @ @ @ yet known , January 's payment was £155,577 .
Flybe 's administrator , EY , @ @ @ @ @ by the BBC .
Mr Cannan told the Manx parliament : `` A Bombardier Dash @ @ @ @ @ the aircraft in question , has a replacement value of around £25m and a book @ @ @ @ @ I hope that we should indeed get our money that is owed . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ division was waiting for confirmation of the total amount of APD still due to the @ @ @ @ @ .
The last Flybe aircraft to land at Ronaldsway Airport touched down on the evening @ @ @ @ @ before the airline went bust .

Mr Cannan told the Manx parliament: "A Bombardier Dash 8 aircraft, which is the aircraft in question, has a replacement value of around £25m and a book value of £4m, so I hope that we should indeed get our money that is owed."


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Alex Salmond trial witness denies making up allegations

A woman who has accused Alex Salmond of sexually assaulting her on two separate occasions has denied suggestions that the incidents did not happen .
Mr Salmond is alleged to have sexually assaulted the woman at his Bute House residence in May 2014 before attempting to rape her there a month later .
Defence lawyer Shelagh McCall QC suggested that the woman was not at Bute House on either date .
But the witness , known as Woman H , insisted she was telling the truth .
Mr Salmond has pled not guilty to charges that he carried out a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He says he is innocent of all of the charges against him , which are alleged to have happened while he was serving as Scotland 's first minister and the leader of the SNP .
The woman previously told the court that she had felt `` hunted '' by Mr Salmond , who she claimed had `` pounced on her '' after a dinner at Bute House in June 2014 , pulled her clothes off , pushed her onto a bed and then lay naked on top of her despite her protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alex Salmond trial • Follow @ bbcphilipsim for live updates from the trial While cross-examining the witness on Tuesday afternoon , Ms McCall put it to her that : `` You were n't there at that dinner and there was no incident . ''
Woman H replied : `` I wish on my life that was true , but that is not true .
I wish I was n't there .
I wish the first minister had been a nicer and better man and I was n't here . ''
Ms McCall had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diary for the months in question , which did not mention the Bute House dinner .
But Woman H said dinners at Bute House could be `` off piste '' , with diary events regularly cancelled or rearranged , and that her work meant she was regularly at the first minister 's residence .
When asked why she had not called for a Bute House security guard to help that night , she said : `` I really wish that I had .
I was scared , I was embarrassed and humiliated .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ screamed , I wish I had physically reacted but I just turned to stone . ''
She said she wished she had walked out when Mr Salmond started kissing her but had not been able to because she was `` freaking out '' and `` absolutely froze '' .
`` I was screaming on the inside not on the outside , '' she said .
Woman H said Mr Salmond had been naked apart from his socks , adding : `` I have this image in my memory which will probably last for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Salmond was a man who was `` often aggressive and bullying '' who had been `` forcefully trying it on with me '' .
And she insisted that she was telling the truth about a separate allegation that Mr Salmond had sexually assaulted her at Bute House the previous month by putting his hand down her top , kissing her face and neck and touching her legs .
Woman H had earlier told the court that she had emailed a colleague the day after the alleged attempted rape to say she would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first minister .
The woman said she used an arm injury she had previously suffered as an excuse and did not mention the alleged attack because she was `` still in shock '' and had `` just tried to pretend it did n't happen '' .
Woman H went on to say she had told her husband while they were on holiday together some time later that she was considering speaking to SNP headquarters about some `` bad things '' involving Mr Salmond that had happened to her during the independence referendum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any detail .
She said : `` I was trying to work out if there was a process in the party because I was confused and scared and wanted to be secure about talking to anyone before I did so .
`` The first minister was a very powerful man and I did n't want to get on the wrong side of him . ''
Woman H said she started having `` flashbacks '' around the time of the # MeToo movement and the Harvey Weinstein case , and that she believed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases of sexual harassment so the party could take action .
She said : `` These issues started to be discussed and I started to have what I could describe as flashbacks .
I started to come to the realisation at the October/November 2017 period '' .
`` I thought I would call a staff member at SNP HQ who had been dealing with these issues , Ian McCann .
I might have texted him first . ''
The court was shown texts sent to Mr McCann , where he arranged a meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be confidential .
She said the first time she told the full story was when she spoke to Police Scotland .
Under cross-examination , Woman H also described a personal political project in which she had been involved .
The court was shown texts between Woman H and Tasmina Ahmed-Sheik , a former SNP MP , where Woman H appeared to ask if `` Alex will be OK '' with it and saying it would be `` great to be working with him again '' .
The court was also shown an email @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which she invited him to attend a fundraising event in 2017 , but the witness said it was not her idea and she had only sent the email `` out of courtesy '' .
The court had earlier heard that , after Woman H contacted the SNP about making an anonymous complaint about Mr Salmond , she got a reply saying : `` We 'll sit on that and hope we never need to deploy it . ''
Woman H said : `` I wanted it to be known in the party so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they could deal with it at whatever stage they saw fit .
For vetting , for future staff , for party conduct . ''
When asked by Ms McCall whether anyone had encouraged her to speak to the police , Woman H insisted : `` Nobody had cheerled me to do this .
`` I 've done this off my own bat .
This is n't fun , I 'd rather not be here . ''
She said she had spoken to another complainer about the `` process '' , but insisted : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own . ''
Woman H went on to say she had been in regular contact with another complainer in the case , known as Woman J .
The court was shown text messages in which they apparently discussed the `` AS stuff '' .
A text from Woman H to Woman J appeared to say : `` I have a plan and means we can be anonymous but see strong repercussions . ''
Woman H told the court she was `` bricking it '' about Mr Salmond 's response , but `` felt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process could be confidential and anonymous '' .
She said the `` repercussions '' mentioned in the text were the police and party taking action over `` misconduct '' .
Woman H also said she had been in contact with a complainer known as Woman A , but denied that Woman A had encouraged her to speak to the police .
Mr Salmond says he is innocent of all of the allegations against him , and has entered not guilty pleas to all 14 charges .

Woman H went on to say she had told her husband while they were on holiday together some time later that she was considering speaking to SNP headquarters about some "bad things" involving Mr Salmond that had happened to her during the independence referendum campaign, but had not gone into any detail.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Huawei: Government wins vote after backbench rebellion

The government has defeated the first rebellion from its own MPs over plans to allow Huawei to be used in the UK 's 5G mobile network .
Thirty-eight Conservative rebels backed an amendment to end the Chinese firm 's participation in the project by the start of 2023 .
Despite promises from the government of a new bill to address their concerns , rebel MPs pushed their plan to a vote .
But with a large Commons majority , the government defeated it by 24 votes .
Culture Minister Matt Warman said the government had heard the points `` loud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We will now engage intensively with colleagues across the House to make sure that we will make our case at every possible level…and we will underline that we will always put national security at the very top of our agenda . ''
• What is Huawei and how could it be a security threat ?
• Huawei 5G verdict is decision 'with few good options' The use of Huawei technology in the 5G network was signed off by No 10 and security experts earlier this year , with the caveats of keeping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas and capping its market share at 35 % .
But Tory critics say the firm is an arm of the Chinese state and a risk to UK security - claims the firm rejects .
Other countries , including the US and Australia , have banned Huawei from their own networks and criticised the UK 's decision .
After the Commons vote , Huawei vice president Victor Zhang , said : `` An evidence-based approach is needed , so we were disappointed to hear some groundless accusations asserted .
`` The industry and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave Britain less secure , less productive and less innovative . ''
Today 's revolt on Huawei leaves Boris Johnson with one king-sized political headache .
It will likely prompt a bout of teeth gnashing in Downing Street that so many Tories should be ready to defy the PM so soon after he delivered them a whopping election victory .
But it will also sting that their ranks were made up of some of the most senior Tory MPs , including a solid block of former cabinet ministers .
In other words , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who No 10 might expect to be able to bully back into line .
And this matters because the rebellion could pave the way for an even bigger one in the summer that could yet overturn the Huawei decision , with several Tory MPs making clear they are ready to join the rebels once the key 5G legislation comes back to the Commons .
A defeat for Mr Johnson over such a high profile issue would be a deeply wounding blow - all the more so since he went out on a limb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite the fury of the White House and other allies .
Time perhaps for the PM to root out the paracetamol .
A group of Tory MPs , led by the party 's former leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith , put forward an amendment to the Telecommunications Infrastructure Bill to try and stop Huawei 's involvement .
The amendment would have seen firms classified as `` high-risk vendors '' by the National Cyber Security Centre be banned entirely from the UK 's 5G project by 31 December 2022 .
Sir Iain said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this country has got itself far too bound in to a process in which we are reliant on untrusted vendors '' .
Speaking in the Commons , the backbencher accused the Chinese government of spending 20 years `` underbidding '' other technology firms until Huawei dominated the market , and the outcome was a risk to the UK 's security .
He said using Huawei 's technology was a `` statement of absence of thought by any government '' , adding : `` If defence of the realm is our number one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the realm , and I am simply not prepared to put up with that . ''
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden tried to reassure the group of backbenchers with the promise of bringing forward a Telecoms Security Bill before the summer recess `` so all honourable members will be able to debate these points extensively '' .
He also said the government wanted to work with its Five Eyes security partners - including the US - on alternative solutions so the UK could `` get to a position where we do not have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Mr Dowden could not give a timetable for the exclusion of such companies , except to say it would be `` in this Parliament '' - meaning within the next five years .
As a result , Sir Iain pushed his amendment to a vote , marking the first Tory rebellion against the government since Boris Johnson won the election in December .
However , while 282 MPs from across the House voted in favour of the amendment , 306 MPs voted against , defeating it .
There were 38 Conservative MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the amendment - including former international trade secretary Liam Fox , ex-Brexit secretary David Davis and former housing minister Esther McVey .
Conservative MP and Foreign Affairs Committee chairman , Tom Tugendhat , also voted in favour of the amendment , saying he did `` not get the commitments '' he wanted from the government .
`` I am sorry that I could not support the government .
I hope the policy will change before we come to the main Telecoms Security Bill before the summer . ''
The Telecommunications Infrastructure Bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @

And this matters because the rebellion could pave the way for an even bigger one in the summer that could yet overturn the Huawei decision, with several Tory MPs making clear they are ready to join the rebels once the key 5G legislation comes back to the Commons.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus in the UK: How are people responding?

Life in the UK has certainly changed in recent weeks as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise .
But how is the British public responding ?
Should I be self-isolating ?
How will my travel plans be affected ?
How can I protect my and my family 's health ?
Will schools and offices close and big events be cancelled ?
How will I pay the bills if I have to self-isolate ?
What if I run out of basics ?
And the public appetite for information from experts , rather than politicians , is increasing by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has heart problems and suffers from a long-term lung condition , wants to know whether she should stick with plans to travel to Spain for three weeks .
`` I feel that going abroad is unwise , but until the authorities inform us of the situation in Spain , my tour operator will not cancel the holiday , '' she says .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak On Monday , the government said the UK would remain in the containment phase - not move to the next phase of bringing in measures to delay the virus ' spread with `` social distancing '' , as had been expected .
Marilyn Rodger , who is severely disabled and lives with her elderly parents , is worried that approach could mean she wo n't get the care she needs .
`` My dad , who is 96 , regularly gets chest infections .
So if he gets a cough , does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean I do n't get any carers coming [ to ] me ? ''
she asks .
`` It 's very scary for us . ''
But not everyone 's feeling despondent .
`` I am no fan of this government but BJ [ Boris Johnson ] has gone up in my estimation .
Credit where credit is due - he is following the advice of experts ! ''
writes @ RoseEdmunds on Twitter .
For some , the worry is very real and immediate .
LH1987 writes on Mumsnet : `` As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work every day , needless to say I am more than a little concerned . ''
Our BBC Reality Check colleagues have tried to answer worries around public transport .
And a mother in Hertfordshire with emphysema and asthma tells the BBC she is `` desperately worried '' her eight-year-old daughter might become infected and is considering keeping her off school to self-isolate but fears she 'll be hit with a fine for non-attendance .
Others are sharing news of how they and their families are getting on at work .
One employee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who did not want to be named , says staff were told to go into the office unless it was absolutely necessary to stay at home and minor symptoms were not a reason to stay away .
The reason ?
The IT infrastructure could not handle everyone working remotely , he explains .
For those working from home , our business team has compiled some tricks and tools .
For some , the financial implications are a cause for concern .
James Wilson , from Nuneaton , tells the BBC his employer will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work if he becomes `` mildly ill '' .
`` I may be forced to attend work… or face falling behind on the mortgage and other bills , '' he says .
Kev Bolus , a freelance sound mixer , says he has lost work from the end of February and is `` deeply concerned '' about how he and other self-employed workers will cope .
Some are saying messages from the government and the airlines are at odds .
Gloria Palazzi , returning to the UK from Italy on a quarter-full BA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stay on her plane for an extra 90 minutes after landing because of a coughing passenger .
Airport staff did not tell them to self-isolate but online government advice did .
The wash your hands message has been loud and clear but the instruction to stop touching our faces has been a struggle for many of us .
@ daoyu84000 has certainly had it on his mind : After a weekend that saw toilet rolls , pasta and cleaning products flying off the shelves , there is still some concern around .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ shelves bare : Some are determined to look on the brighter side , like @ RossHunterUK who counted just 15 people on his flight to Doha , Qatar 's capital , and suggested it might just be a good time to fly .

Allow Twitter content?
This article contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Twitter’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: Banks to allow customers to defer mortgage payments

Taxpayer-owned bank RBS will allow people affected by the coronavirus outbreak to defer mortgage and loan repayments for up to three months .
TSB and Lloyds said they would also allow a mortgage window , and the banks said savers could close fixed-term savings accounts without charge .
This is designed to allow people to access cash if they need it as the impact of the virus is felt .
Banks are also announcing extra support for affected businesses .
Cases of mortgage repayment holidays are being taken on a case-by-case basis , and the length of any suspension can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individuals facing financial difficulties owing to the virus includes : • The option of applying for an temporarily increased credit card borrowing limit • Asking for an increased cash withdrawal limit of up to £500 The measures are similar to those already in place for people facing financial difficulties .
`` We understand that there may be circumstances where a personal customer may fall into financial difficulty as a result of the impacts of coronavirus , for instance , loss of income , '' a spokesman for RBS said .
`` We will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a case-by-case basis and can offer a number of options to help them manage their finances . ''
UK Finance , which represents the major banks , said that all banks would consider increasing overdrafts or allowing repayment relief for loan or mortgage repayments for those affected by the virus .
`` We would encourage customers who think they may be affected to contact their provider as soon as possible to discuss the support available to them , '' said its chief executive , Stephen Jones .
Offering to let personal customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months is inherently un-commercial - the sort of thing that would seriously damage your credit record if you did it without agreement .
Similarly offering to convert capital repayment loans into interest-only loans for up to a year will cost the banks money .
Because they are expensive , the measures raise practical questions - above all , how will the banks establish that customers are truly affected by the virus rather than other factors ?
A doctor 's letter ?
They have n't answered that question yet .
Before taking up any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal , would be wise to get it in writing from the bank that it wo n't harm their credit records .
Changes to mortgage agreements in some way mirror the situation in Italy , one of the areas most affected by the outbreak .
With significant restrictions on the population in place , Laura Castelli , Italy 's deputy economy minister , said mortgage payments would be suspended across Italy .
RBS said on Monday that it was offering more flexibility over loans to businesses .
• EASY STEPS : How to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Other banks are following suit .
Barclays said it was offering 12-month capital repayment holidays on existing loans over £25,000 , and would also offer extended or new overdraft facilities to business customers .
`` Our network of relationship managers has been reaching out to SMEs across the UK to see if they require additional support during this time , as we do regularly when we see any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our clients , '' said Ian Rand , chief executive of Barclays Business Banking .
`` Barclays is ready to help , whether that is with managing cash-flow or any other support , and we encourage any customer who needs guidance to call us or contact their relationship manager . ''
Lloyds Banking Group said it would be open to requests from small businesses for overdraft extensions and other support .

"Our network of relationship managers has been reaching out to SMEs across the UK to see if they require additional support during this time, as we do regularly when we see any events which may have an impact on our clients," said Ian Rand, chief executive of Barclays Business Banking.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Markets start to bounce back after steep losses

Shares in the US enjoyed a late-afternoon boost on Tuesday as a rise in oil prices helped markets to recover some ground one day after the biggest falls since the 2008 financial crisis .
The three main US indexes closed more than 4.9 % higher .
Earlier , shares in Europe slipped into negative territory , despite initial bounce-backs .
London 's FTSE 100 ended almost flat , after a 7.7 % drop the day before .
In France and Germany , the main indexes dropped more than 1.4 % .
Markets were battered on Monday in reaction to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia and Saudi Arabia .
But after falling as much as 30 % on Monday , oil prices rebounded slightly , with Brent crude more than 8 % higher .
Analysts said US markets were helped along by promises from the White House to take steps to protect the US economy against the impact of the coronavirus outbreak .
`` Obviously there has been concern voiced in the market that this is not being contained and more needs to be done , '' said William Foster , vice president and lead US analyst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now we 're starting to see a response from the US federal government , the administration and Congress that .
I think that 's going to be part of the solution to supporting the economy ... and ultimately stabilising the markets . ''
Earlier , shares in Japan rose after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said his government would work closely with the central bank to boost the economy .
Japan 's benchmark index , the Nikkei 225 , had started Tuesday more than 3 % down but bounced back following Mr Abe 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In Hong Kong , the main Hang Seng market rose 1.4 % buoyed by Japan 's moves to calm investors .
The index had fallen more than 4 % on Monday .
London 's FTSE index was 0.23 % higher at the end of Tuesday at 5,979 .
The optimism on Tuesday was helped by a slowdown in reported cases of coronavirus in China , according to Michael Hewson , chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK .
`` This optimism , along with expectations around further central bank actions is , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole of Italy has gone into lockdown and the Spanish government has taken the decision to close all schools and universities in Madrid , '' he said .
Monday saw the steepest declines in many global financial markets since the 2008 financial crisis .
The major US stock indexes fell so sharply at the start of trading that the buying and selling of shares was halted for 15 minutes , as a so-called `` circuit breaker '' aimed at curbing panicky selling came into effect .
The dramatic falls in response to fears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ typical of market behaviour , said Kathleen Brooks , director at Minerva Analysis .
`` Markets are so emotional , it 's unbelievable , '' she said .
`` Act first , think later .
This was the same in 2008 , you have these massive declines and then the market is on pause . ''
• Coronavirus : What are your travel rights ?
She said she thought markets would recover eventually , as `` if you look at long-term charts they always recover '' .
However , in the short term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if we do n't see the stimulus that 's required .
We need to hear more positive things because that 's when stock markets go up . ''
Why should I care if stock markets fall ?
Many people 's initial reaction to `` the markets '' is that they are not directly affected , because they do not invest money .
Yet there are millions of people with a pension - either private or through work - who will see their savings ( in what is known as a defined contribution pension @ @ @ @ @ @ @ value of their savings pot is influenced by the performance of these investments .
So big rises or falls can affect your pension , but the advice is to remember that pension savings , like any investments , are usually a long-term bet .
Major central banks have pledged to pump cash into the financial system while governments are mulling stimulus measures to tackle the economic hit .
These include cuts to interest rates to encourage companies to borrow money and expand .
However , former Bank of England governor Mervyn King told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Money : `` I do n't think that a cut in interest rates now is actually going to do a great deal to help the situation , it maybe a sign of reassurance but it is not more than that .
`` What is needed now are targeted measures to help business deal with a short-term crisis and collapse of their cash flow , and I think the Bank of England understands that very well . ''

"This optimism, along with expectations around further central bank actions is, for now, offsetting the news that the whole of Italy has gone into lockdown and the Spanish government has taken the decision to close all schools and universities in Madrid," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: Is it safe to use swimming pools, and other questions

More than 110 countries have now reported coronavirus cases .
The World Health Organization says the threat of a pandemic is a `` very real '' but that the planet is not at its mercy , Here are the answers to a selection of readers ' questions .
( Let us know your questions by using the form at the bottom of this article ) .
Is it safe to swim in a public pool ?
- Annette , Chester The water in most swimming pools contains chlorine , a chemical which can kill viruses .
So it should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long as it is properly chlorinated .
However , you could still catch the virus from an infected person in a changing-room or building if they contaminate surfaces , such as door handles .
And someone with the virus could also spread it to others through coughs and sneezes if they come into close contact .
There are a number of ways to help you avoid catching or spreading the virus .
We have booked a holiday to an affected region of Italy .
Should we still go ?
- Susan Calder , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all but essential travel to Italy .
People travelling against government advice risk invalidating their travel insurance , says the Association of British Insurers ( ABI ) .
They advise those seeking to travel to the affected areas to speak to their travel insurer .
The travel agents ' trade association , Abta , says people booked on a package holiday to the region in the next few days should be offered an alternative , or a refund by their tour operator .
Any compensation for those who have booked flights only will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have arranged , the ABI says .
• Coronavirus : What are your travel rights ?
Are otherwise healthy disabled people more at risk of dying from coronavirus ?
- Abigail Ireland , Stockport Coronavirus can be more severe in older people and those with pre-existing conditions .
These include heart and lung illnesses , and diabetes .
There is no evidence that disabled people who are otherwise healthy - and who do n't , for instance , have respiratory problems - are at greater risk of dying from , or with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if someone I live with is self-isolating ?
- Graham Wright , London The NHS advises anyone self-isolating that only people who live with them should be allowed to stay .
It also says that the person who suspects they have coronavirus should keep contact with others in the house to a minimum .
If possible , they should not stay in the same room .
Any shared crockery and eating utensils should be cleaned thoroughly after use , as should bathrooms and surfaces .
• Should I self-isolate and how do I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Should I start wearing a mask to limit my chance of spreading or contracting the virus ?
- Ann Hardman , Radcliffe , Manchester Although doctors and surgeons often wear face masks , there is little evidence that wearing face masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Public Health England has said `` they do not recommend the use of face masks as a means of protection from coronavirus '' .
They say there is very little evidence of widespread benefit from their use outside of clinical settings , Experts say good hygiene - such as regularly washing your hands and certainly before putting them near your mouth - is vastly more effective .
What is the risk to children ?
- Louise , London In general , children appear to be relatively unaffected by coronavirus , according to data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are able to shake off the infection or have no symptoms or only very mild ones similar to a cold .
However , children with underlying lung problems , such as asthma , may have to be more careful , as the virus could trigger an attack .
For most children , though , it will be a respiratory infection like any other and no cause for alarm .
The UK government would have the power to close schools to prevent the spread of the virus , if it wanted .
Schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shut .
Can the virus spread on notes and coins ?
- David Webber , Dorset The Chinese government has said that cash received by all banks must be sterilised before being released to customers , in order to reduce the spread of the disease .
Using contactless cards can minimise the risk of handling cash .
However , these cards can also harbour germs and viruses .
Best practice is to wash your hands thoroughly after handling cards , coins or banknotes .
What are the differences between coronavirus and flu ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , US Coronavirus and flu share many similar symptoms , making it difficult to diagnose without a test .
The main coronavirus symptoms to look out for are fever and a cough .
Flu often has other symptoms too , such as a sore throat , while people with coronavirus may feel short of breath .
Anyone who suspects they may have caught coronavirus should not visit their GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
Instead , they should call 111 to speak to someone .
What questions do you have about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

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


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has coronavirus

Nottingham Forest and Olympiakos owner Evangelos Marinakis has tested positive for coronavirus .
Marinakis , 52 , was at the City Ground for Forest 's Championship fixture against Millwall on Friday .
Olympiakos will host Wolves in the Europa League on Thursday , after Uefa rejected Wolves ' request for the last-16 first-leg match to be postponed .
`` Mr Marinakis was diagnosed after showing the first symptoms on his return to Greece , '' said Forest .
`` During his stay in Nottingham he did not show any symptoms of the virus .
`` The club are seeking advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bodies to ensure the correct measures are taken . ''
Marinakis had earlier revealed he had been diagnosed with coronavirus on social media platform Instagram .
`` The recent virus has 'visited ' me and I felt obliged to let the public know , '' he said .
`` I feel good as I take all the necessary measures and I discipline to the doctor 's instructions . ''
Millwall , who won Friday 's game in Nottingham 3-0 , have said that `` senior club representatives who came into contact with Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isolation '' .
A club spokesman added : `` This is purely a precautionary measure and no individual has displayed any symptoms .
The club will continue to follow all necessary guidance from the appropriate bodies . ''
The Lions are due to host Derby County at The Den on Saturday .
• How the coronavirus outbreak has impacted sporting events around the world • Coronavirus and Premier League : Key questions about what lies ahead • The latest news about the coronavirus outbreak It was confirmed on Monday that Wolves ' last-16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus outbreak .
The Premier League club had sold 1,000 tickets for the fixture , with full ticket refunds currently being processed .
The Greek government announced on Sunday that all professional sports events for the next two weeks will be played without spectators , although Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has said that events in Britain are unlikely to be affected by coronavirus in the immediate future .
Forest , who are fifth in the Championship table and scheduled to play Sheffield Wednesday in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been in contact with the English Football League , who say matches will continue to take place as scheduled while government guidance remains unchanged .
`` The league is in dialogue to fully ascertain the set of circumstances that existed when Mr Marinakis visited the club last week and in conjunction with the club will make a determination on what measures are to be taken - if any - when full details are known , '' an EFL statement said .
Analysis : 'Forest keen not to cause panic' Forest are waiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any further action .
They say Marinakis was showing no symptoms of the virus while he was in Nottingham , which may reassure members of the public who might have come into contact with him on Friday .
It is not yet clear how many staff members or players he came into direct contact with but , as you would expect , the club is being bombarded with questions about how this might affect Saturday 's game against Sheffield Wednesday or future matches .
The genuine answer at the moment is that nobody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice .
Once that advice is received , I would expect Forest to follow it to the letter , whatever the consequences regarding football .
At this stage , though , any speculation would be just that , and Forest are keen that they are not seen to cause panic or to be scare-mongering .
Marinakis was also in attendance at Emirates Stadium in late February when Olympiakos beat Arsenal in the previous round of the Europa League .
An Arsenal statement read : `` Our home match with Olympiakos in the Europa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February and none of our staff who came into contact with Mr Marinakis on that matchday have reported any symptoms since .
`` We continue to follow strict protocols with regard to coronavirus .
We 're following the government health guidelines and have additional procedures in place to protect our players and staff .
This has included regular deep cleaning of areas used by players at Emirates Stadium and our training centre . ''

Evangelos Marinakis was at Emirates Stadium on 27 February watching Olympiakos beat Arsenal
Nottingham Forest and Olympiakos owner Evangelos Marinakis has tested positive for coronavirus.
Marinakis, 52, was at the City Ground for Forest's Championship fixture against Millwall on Friday.
Olympiakos will host Wolves in the Europa League on Thursday, after Uefa rejected Wolves' request for the last-16 first-leg match to be postponed.
"Mr Marinakis was diagnosed after showing the first symptoms on his return to Greece," said Forest. external-link
"During his stay in Nottingham he did not show any symptoms of the virus.
"The club are seeking advice from medical professionals and the relevant governing bodies to ensure the correct measures are taken."
Marinakis had earlier revealed he had been diagnosed with coronavirus on social media platform Instagram.
"The recent virus has 'visited' me and I felt obliged to let the public know," he said. "I feel good as I take all the necessary measures and I discipline to the doctor's instructions."
Millwall, who won Friday's game in Nottingham 3-0, have said that "senior club representatives who came into contact with Mr Marinakis have begun a period of self isolation".
A club spokesman added: "This is purely a precautionary measure and no individual has displayed any symptoms. The club will continue to follow all necessary guidance from the appropriate bodies."
The Lions are due to host Derby County at The Den on Saturday.
It was confirmed on Monday that Wolves' last-16 first-leg match at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium was to be played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus outbreak.
The Premier League club had sold 1,000 tickets for the fixture, with full ticket refunds currently being processed.
The Greek government announced on Sunday that all professional sports events for the next two weeks will be played without spectators, although Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has said that events in Britain are unlikely to be affected by coronavirus in the immediate future.
Forest, who are fifth in the Championship table and scheduled to play Sheffield Wednesday in their next league game on Saturday, have been in contact with the English Football League, who say matches will continue to take place as scheduled while government guidance remains unchanged.
"The league is in dialogue to fully ascertain the set of circumstances that existed when Mr Marinakis visited the club last week and in conjunction with the club will make a determination on what measures are to be taken - if any - when full details are known," an EFL statement said.
Analysis: 'Forest keen not to cause panic'
Colin Fray, BBC Radio Nottingham's Forest correspondent
Forest are waiting for advice from health officials before taking any further action. They say Marinakis was showing no symptoms of the virus while he was in Nottingham, which may reassure members of the public who might have come into contact with him on Friday.
It is not yet clear how many staff members or players he came into direct contact with but, as you would expect, the club is being bombarded with questions about how this might affect Saturday's game against Sheffield Wednesday or future matches.
The genuine answer at the moment is that nobody knows, because they are awaiting medical advice. Once that advice is received, I would expect Forest to follow it to the letter, whatever the consequences regarding football.
At this stage, though, any speculation would be just that, and Forest are keen that they are not seen to cause panic or to be scare-mongering.
Marinakis was also in attendance at Emirates Stadium in late February when Olympiakos beat Arsenal in the previous round of the Europa League.
An Arsenal statement read: "Our home match with Olympiakos in the Europa League was played on Thursday, 27 February and none of our staff who came into contact with Mr Marinakis on that matchday have reported any symptoms since.
"We continue to follow strict protocols with regard to coronavirus. We're following the government health guidelines and have additional procedures in place to protect our players and staff. This has included regular deep cleaning of areas used by players at Emirates Stadium and our training centre."


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: UK spread in maps and charts

More than 370 cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in the UK , with Prime Minister Boris Johnson saying the outbreak will present `` significant challenges '' to the country .
Almost 26,000 people in the UK have been tested for the virus so far , with 373 found to be positive for the respiratory infection .
Six people who tested positive have died .
Here are six maps , charts and graphics that will help you understand the situation in the UK and how the authorities are dealing with it .
1 .
The number of UK cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ causes the respiratory disease known as Covid-19 , was first confirmed in the UK at the end of January .
Since then , cases have been reported across the UK .
The start of the UK peak of the coronavirus epidemic is expected within the next two weeks , according to Dr Jenny Harries , England 's deputy chief medical officer .
Hertfordshire has more cases of coronavirus than any other local authority in England outside London .
The capital saw an increase of more than 30 cases on Tuesday and all but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed cases .
But numbers are much lower than other European countries , such as Italy , for example , where there have been more than 9,000 cases and 463 deaths .
While there were a number of people testing positive throughout February , figures in the UK began to increase significantly at the beginning of March .
Prof Chris Whitty , the country 's chief medical adviser , said he was expecting the numbers to `` increase initially slowly , but really quite fast after a while , and we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• PROTECTION : Where are we with a vaccine ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
Globally , authorities have confirmed more than 113,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 4,000 deaths .
The vast majority of cases - more than 80,900 - are in China , where the virus originated in December .
2 .
We are in the first phase of the government 's response The government has published its action plan for dealing with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contain ; delay ; mitigate - alongside ongoing research .
The emphasis is currently on the contain and research phases , but Mr Johnson says extensive preparations are being made to move to the `` delay '' stage to stop the wider spread of the virus .
While the containment phase involves catching cases early and tracing all close contacts to halt the spread of the disease for as long as possible , the delay phase could mean the introduction of `` social distancing '' measures , such as urging people to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cutting back on socialising .
Closing schools and banning big events is less likely to happen .
However , Professor Whitty said that within the next few weeks we could reach a stage when people with `` even minor respiratory tract infections or a fever should be self-isolating for seven days afterwards '' .
If the virus becomes widespread , the government may decide to enter the mitigation phase , when health services are asked to focus on critical care and retired NHS staff could be asked to return to work .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steps in the days and weeks ahead to help people `` protect themselves , their family and in particularly the elderly and vulnerable '' .
3 .
People who think they have coronavirus should contact NHS 111 If there 's a chance you could have coronavirus , you are advised not to go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
Instead , the NHS says you should contact its dedicated 111 online coronavirus service if you are in England .
In Scotland , you should call your GP or NHS 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales call 111 ( if available in your area ) or 0845 46 47 .
In Northern Ireland call 111 .
As a result , you may be asked to stay away from other people ( self-isolate ) .
You may also be passed on to your local health protection team for testing .
Advice for people who have travelled back to the UK from the main affected areas and some other countries has also been issued by the government .
4 .
Some of the UK 's cases can be traced to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the past week , as well as in the UK .
Many of the UK 's cases have been people who recently travelled from affected countries - including Italy and France as well as China and Iran .
Italy has been particularly badly affected and the UK government has advised all those who have developed symptoms after returning from anywhere in Italy - not just the north of the country - to stay at home .
Those returning from quarantined regions in Italy , including Lombardy and Veneto , are being told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show symptoms .

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


bbcuk--2020-03-10--What are the symptoms?

What are the symptoms?

Coronavirus has spread to more than 80 countries , including the UK .
So , what is the disease and how does it spread ?
How do I protect myself ?
The best thing is regular and thorough hand washing , preferably with soap and water .
Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs small droplets - packed with the virus - into the air .
These can be breathed in , or cause an infection if you touch a surface they have landed on then your eyes , nose or mouth .
So , coughing and sneezing into tissues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hands , and avoiding close contact with infected people are important for limiting the spread .
Face masks do not provide effective protection , according to medical experts .
What are the coronavirus symptoms ?
Coronavirus infects the lungs .
The symptoms start with a fever followed by a dry cough , which can lead to breathing problems .
It takes five days on average to start showing the symptoms , scientists have said .
People will be most infectious when they have symptoms , but there have been suggestions some can spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The early symptoms can easily be confused with other winter bugs including colds and flu .
The proportion dying from the disease appears low ( between 1 % and 2 % ) - but the figures are unreliable .
Thousands are being treated but may go on to die - so the death rate could be higher .
But it may also be lower if lots of mild cases are unreported .
• 6 % become critically ill - lung failure , septic shock , organ failure and risk of death • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cough and some may have pneumonia Older people , and those with pre-existing medical conditions ( such as asthma , diabetes , heart disease ) , are more likely to become severely ill .
Treatment relies on keeping the patient 's body going , including breathing support , until their immune system can fight off the virus .
Work to develop a vaccine is under way .
• How close are we to a coronavirus vaccine ?
• Coronavirus : Can it harm breastfed babies , and other questions What should I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
The NHS says an epidemic in the UK is `` likely '' .
People who think they may be affected by coronavirus need to call the NHS 111 phone service for further advice .
They should not go to their GP , or A & E .
In Scotland , check NHS inform , then ring your GP in office hours , or 111 out-of-hours .
In parts of Wales where 111 is not available , call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 .
In Northern Ireland , call your GP .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ somebody who may be infected , you may be told to self-isolate .
People needing to do so should take `` common-sense '' steps to avoid close contact with other people , says Public Health England .
Advice for people who have travelled back to the UK from affected areas and who may need to self-isolate , has been issued .
Other countries have introduced their own measures For example , the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises people showing symptoms to call their healthcare provider , and those who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Organization has also issued advice for the public .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Will I be tested - and how ?
If you need testing in the UK , you may have to give samples of mucus , blood or faeces .
These will be tested and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
While you await your test results , you may be asked to stay at home and self-isolate .
How fast is it spreading ?
Hundreds of new cases are being reported worldwide each day .
However , it is thought health agencies may be unaware of many cases .
After starting in China , coronavirus is now spreading fast in countries like South Korea , Italy and Iran .
This explainer will be regularly updated to reflect the audience 's questions about coronavirus .
Details of how to get in touch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have about the coronavirus ?
In some cases your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

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


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: How is the UK planning for an outbreak?

A major coronavirus epidemic is expected in the UK .
A worst case scenario could see 80 % of the population infected if it was left unchecked .
So , what steps are being taken and is the NHS well prepared ?
Could schools close and public gatherings be banned ?
The government has a range of powers to protect people from infection : • School closures and - once a new law is passed - allowing bigger class sizes if there are teacher shortages • Restrictions on the use of public transport • Police focusing on the most serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal powers to make people stay in quarantine What steps have been taken so far ?
There are four main stages in the government 's action plan : contain , delay , research and mitigate .
The focus so far has been on contain and delay .
The contain stage has involved tracing people who had contact with those diagnosed with coronavirus and getting them to self-isolate in case symptoms develop .
From the end of March health experts are likely to start advising people with mild cold and flu-like symptoms to assume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the moment , winter bugs are still circulating , so any illness is more likely to be those .
What could the next steps be ?
There is likely to be specific advice aimed at the elderly and those with existing health conditions , who are most at risk of becoming severely ill. Others may be asked to work from home , stagger their commute , or cut back on unnecessary socialising .
The government 's emergency Cobra committee - made up of ministers , civil servants and officials - is co-ordinating the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have major social and economic consequences .
Because of this , ministers have stressed the need not to over-react .
There are also doubts about whether such measures have much impact .
For example , if you stop people attending football matches they may just meet in pubs , where the risk of infection would be similar .
The most drastic measures therefore look likely to be reserved for just before the peak , which could be two months away .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Is the NHS ready for coronavirus ?
Up to a fifth of the UK workforce could be off sick during the peak weeks of a major outbreak , the government says .
It believes there could be an increase in deaths , especially among elderly people and those with pre-existing conditions such as heart or lung problems and diabetes .
The NHS has detailed plans to cope with outbreaks of disease and surges in demand .
There are 30 hospitals on stand-by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the NHS has been put on an emergency footing .
Hospitals have been asked to draw up plans to segregate coronavirus patients and supply staff with protective masks and suits .
All patients in hospital who have flu-like symptoms are now being tested .
If someone tests positive , a decision will be made on whether to move the patient to one of the designated sites based on what is in the best interests of that individual .
People who think they may be affected by coronavirus need to call the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They should not go to their GP , or A & E .
In Scotland , check NHS inform , then ring your GP in office hours , or 111 out-of-hours .
In parts of Wales where 111 is not available , call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 .
In Northern Ireland , call your GP .
How will the NHS treat seriously ill patients ?
Currently there is no treatment or cure , so hospitals are trying to relieve the symptoms .
Specialist equipment called ECMO - which helps with breathing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of units for the most severely ill patients if their lungs fail .
In the worst-case scenario of widespread transmission , hospitals could start cancelling routine treatments to prioritise coronavirus patients .
It is estimated one in 20 may become critically ill , which could overwhelm the NHS .
There are just over 4,000 intensive care beds , which can be increased by but only by a few thousand .
Doctors warn some difficult decisions may need to be made about which patients get treatment .
What is the UK hoping to achieve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the peak until the summer months , when there will be less pressure on the NHS .
There may also be progress developing a treatment .
Several antiviral therapies , including those used to treat malaria and HIV , are being tested .
Pushing cases towards the summer could also reduce the rate of transmission .
People will be outdoors more , making it more difficult for the virus to be passed on .
The expectation is that the proportion of people infected could be down at around 20 % , perhaps even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But there is a tricky balance to get right .
Suppress it too much and you could have a second wave .
What questions do you have about the UK 's coronavirus plans ?
In some cases your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

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


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Bruderhof: My dark past growing up in a rural English commune

A group of Christians living together in communes believe their simpler , shared existence is the answer to society 's ills .
But some former members have told BBC Inside Out their historical experience of growing up inside the Bruderhof 's communities has left them psychologically damaged .
`` I thought maybe I was evil , maybe some demons were going to come flying out of me .
That 's what had been drummed into me . ''
Samantha* carries the scars of her childhood on her forearms .
She began self-harming at the age of nine , she says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' life inside the Bruderhof .
Samantha grew up in a commune set up by the religious group and said she felt forced to conform to its strict teachings on sexual morality and the role of women , which includes a modest dress code .
Over time her mental health deteriorated and in 2002 , aged 22 , she attempted to take her own life .
She said she was then subjected to what she describes as an `` exorcism '' at the commune in Beech Grove , a 19th Century manor house @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Kent .
Elders from a commune in the United States were summoned to help with a `` laying on of hands '' prayer ceremony , she said .
As older men gathered around her to pray , Samantha , remembers feeling scared and confused .
`` Was I going to spew forth loud words , '' she recalls thinking at the time .
`` There was nothing to drive out of me… there were no demons , '' she said .
Other former members - including people who left the Bruderhof within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they witnessed similar `` exorcism '' ceremonies for people with autism , cancer and psychosis .
However , the Bruderhof said the term exorcism could not be further from the truth .
It said praying for those with illness was an accepted practice and it would never be used as a substitute for medical care .
Samantha was being treated by external consultant psychiatric specialists at the time , the Bruderhof said .
The international community , which has another commune in Robertsbridge , East Sussex , presents a vision of an idyllic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live together .
Members share their income and resources , meaning they are largely free from financial pressures .
However , most young people have limited access to modern technology , such as smart phones and social media .
There are also strict rules banning `` provocative '' clothing and sex outside marriage .
Samantha is one of a number of former members who says the pressure to conform to the Bruderhof 's teachings has left a legacy of psychological trauma .
The Bruderhof leadership declined to be interviewed , but the community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegations made by former members .
What is the Bruderhof ?
• The Bruderhof - which means `` place of brothers '' - was founded as a pacifist movement in Germany in 1920 • Members seek to live like early Christians , sharing incomes and handing over all their possessions , which are not returned if they leave • Fleeing Nazi persecution , the group moved to England in 1936 and later to Paraguay to avoid the internship of German citizens during World War Two • Today , they eschew many trappings of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is `` a compelling answer to the problems of contemporary society '' • Their modest dress , including head coverings for women , is intended to `` avoid clothing that indicates status or wealth as well as anything provocative or sexualized '' • There are two communes in England , both housing about 300 people , with other sites in Europe , the US , South America and Australia Several former members said they were punished for having relationships during their teens .
The Bruderhof said it had a `` clear commitment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or outside of marriage viewed as sinful and single members expected to remain celibate .
Clare said she was subjected to a `` public shaming '' after being caught with a boyfriend in her teens in the 2000s .
Her `` crimes '' were read aloud in front of 200 adults , she said .
`` It 's just brutal , '' she said .
`` People are standing up one by one and condemning you .
The shame on the faces of your family around you - it haunts you forever .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ left the Bruderhof at the age of 15 more than 20 years ago .
She said she was humiliated after breaking the rules and speaking to boys from outside the community .
`` I remember being stood up at a lunchtime meal… and told I needed to apologise for my behaviour , that I was the spawn of Satan , that I was a parasite on the commune and that I would end up as a whore on the street , that I was a vampire and an evil , evil child - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of horrible things which stuck with me , you know , to this day because I had to spend years trying to get those words out of my mind . ''
The Bruderhof denied using public humiliation as a punishment and said it would never use this sort of `` extravagant and improbable '' language .
On occasion , `` disciplinary infractions '' were dealt with in a public setting , the Bruderhof said , but it stressed this was not a punishment .
The group insisted it was no different from a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thefts or fighting .
Another former member , Sean , was 15 when he claims he was isolated and banned from talking to anyone or joining communal meals after it was discovered he had a girlfriend .
`` It 's really a separation from society , '' he said .
`` It came with its fair share of traumas as a child to have to suffer like that as a punishment . ''
A short time later he was sent to a Bruderhof commune in the US with his family .
Sean believes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world '' as a punishment .
`` They did n't want me to fraternise with my old friends , '' he said .
`` It 's a very traumatic part of living in the Bruderhof . ''
The community said it had no knowledge of this allegation but its website said it regularly instructed people to move between communes to meet the needs of different communities .
It said the isolation of children as a disciplinary measure was stopped in 1975 , adding it had apologised and regrets children were stigmatised in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no knowledge of these more recent accounts , which it described as `` highly improbable '' .
Another former member , Jon , grew up in the community in the 2000s .
He described a group that , despite being `` repressive '' was `` obsessed with sex '' .
`` They would just question you about everything… like , 'do you masturbate ? '
, '' he said .
In his early teens , he said a senior community figure took him to a sauna and grilled him about his thoughts .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I felt weird , '' he said .
`` He undressed - not in a weird way or anything - but having never seen anyone naked before I was like 'woah ' .
I felt quite trapped with this guy . ''
Jon , who is gay , said he had to hide his sexuality before leaving the Bruderhof .
He said the community 's opposition to same-sex relationships had a `` terrible effect '' on him .
`` You can never show your true self , you 're always hiding something .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He said a gay friend who was a fellow member of the Bruderhof had `` struggled with this '' before coming out and leaving the community .
Some years later he took his own life .
`` I completely understand that , '' he said .
The Bruderhof said it was aware that a 26-year-old former member had taken his own life in 2016 , eight years after leaving .
It said his sexuality was `` acknowledged '' and he received loving pastoral support from the community .
The Bruderhof said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experiencing `` same sex attraction '' was not regarded as sinful .
It said it had no knowledge of Jon 's sauna visit , but that such conduct would be unacceptable .
Many former members the BBC spoke to have taken issue with the Bruderhof 's treatment of women .
Men typically dress in trousers and shirts , while women cover their hair and wear modest , old-fashioned clothes .
Rachel , who is in her 20s , said it was a `` total man 's world '' .
Women were made to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she said .
`` [ Women ] have to wear baggy clothing , it 's all in an effort for men not to be attracted to you , '' she said .
However the Bruderhof maintains women have equal status with men and choose to wear modest clothing .
It said women were encouraged in their education as much as men and took on professional roles including medicine and law .
Both of the communes in the UK have their own schools staffed by teachers from the community .
They are inspected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inspectors found no evidence of any discrimination .
According to the community 's website young adults are encouraged to leave the commune and `` experience the broader world '' before making a voluntary decision to remain .
Whatever their reasons for leaving , former members have said they were not equipped for life on the outside .
`` You have so little knowledge of what the outside world is like , '' he said .
Some of those who chose to leave the community in the past 25 years have said they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ form of cash or a plane ticket - as they moved into the outside world .
Others said they received nothing .
The Bruderhof admits that at some points in the past not enough was done to support former members financially .
Almost $ 2m ( £1.5m ) has been paid out to them by a `` resource office '' which was set up in 2008 and also offers practical advice and support , it said .
A number of former members who spoke to the BBC said this had been helpful .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the East Sussex school which stated `` leaders work hard to ensure that the school 's unique setting does not restrict how well pupils are prepared for life in modern Britain '' .
It added : `` Pupils experience regular opportunities to engage with people from beyond their community , both through welcoming visitors to their school and going out on trips . ''
Life inside the Bruderhof may be simple , but the community is not poor .
Wooden furniture made in the commune 's factory buildings is sold to primary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arm of its Community Playthings company made a profit of £5m .
Many of those interviewed for this story wished to hide their identities for fear they would never be allowed to see their Bruderhof family members again .
Some have claimed they were denied requests to see their children , parents and grandparents .
One woman said her parents were ordered to burn photos of their children who had left .
The Bruderhof insisted most former members `` maintain warm relations '' with relatives in the communes and said leavers had never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It accepted that during some periods `` too hard a line was taken regarding visits by those perceived as detractors '' but that its policy was now to facilitate requests wherever possible .
But Sean believes he and other leavers are mistakenly viewed by some inside the community as bitter and destructive for speaking out .
`` We do n't want to destroy the Bruderhof , '' he said .
`` We want to reform it . ''
In a statement , the Bruderhof said the testimony of former members in this story @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the community .
`` We are an open and welcoming Christian community who , while not perfect , are doing our best to make the world a better place , '' it said .
`` Ofsted has for decades been inspecting the provision we make for our children and has never found any cause for concern .
The Bruderhof is 100 years old this year .
In that time we have n't got everything right , for which we are sorry .
`` We are committed to listening to anyone who feels hurt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' *Some names have been changed .
You can watch the full BBC Inside Out South East report on iPlayer here .

"Ofsted has for decades been inspecting the provision we make for our children and has never found any cause for concern. The Bruderhof is 100 years old this year. In that time we haven't got everything right, for which we are sorry.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Meeting the stem cell donor who saved my life

Jo Kelly was given six months to live after being diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 25 .
@ @ @ @ @ had run out , she found a stem cell donor from Germany .
Eight years @ @ @ @ @ she 's cancer free and married with a baby girl .
She had never met @ @ @ @ @ life - until BBC Breakfast brought them together for the first time .

Jo Kelly was given six months to live after being diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 25.
Just when her treatment options had run out, she found a stem cell donor from Germany.
Eight years on from the operation, she's cancer free and married with a baby girl.
She had never met the man who saved her life - until BBC Breakfast brought them together for the first time.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: 'Cabin fever' in locked-down Lombardy

A family from Rochdale now living in Lombardy , Italy say it was `` lonely '' and `` eerie '' @ @ @ @ @ country attempts to contain coronavirus .
The Fox family say they are getting `` cabin @ @ @ @ @ games to relieve the boredom of having to stay indoors .
Adele Fox said `` @ @ @ @ @ '' as she starts the second week of home schooling her son Oliver , 16 @ @ @ @ @ Oliver said being off school `` sounds great and I do get a lot of @ @ @ @ @ but I 'd probably rather be in school '' .

A family from Rochdale now living in Lombardy, Italy say it was "lonely" and "eerie" living in lockdown as the country attempts to contain coronavirus.
The Fox family say they are getting "cabin fever" and playing board games to relieve the boredom of having to stay indoors.
Adele Fox said "fractions is not my department" as she starts the second week of home schooling her son Oliver, 16, and 11-year-old Evie.
Oliver said being off school "sounds great and I do get a lot of video games and movies in but I'd probably rather be in school".


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: 'Vulnerable' Bedford man self-isolates due to risks

A man with various health conditions says he is self-isolating for the foreseeable future to stop the chance of contracting @ @ @ @ @ from Bedford , told the BBC he had made the decision to stay at home @ @ @ @ @ `` I 'm well in the frame for somebody who potentially could die from getting @ @ @ @ @ Talbot , who is semi-retired .
`` Age - I am 67 .
Diabetes - @ @ @ @ @ .
Heart disease and lung disease - I 've got both of those . ''
@ @ @ @ @ wife and two children , but said if the virus did come into the house @ @ @ @ @ isolated part of it .
Dr Amir Khan , a GP , said Mr Talbot @ @ @ @ @ due to his conditions , but said people who have questions should refer to NHS @ @ @

A man with various health conditions says he is self-isolating for the foreseeable future to stop the chance of contracting coronavirus.
Colin Talbot, from Bedford, told the BBC he had made the decision to stay at home for his own safety.
"I'm well in the frame for somebody who potentially could die from getting coronavirus," said Mr Talbot, who is semi-retired.
"Age - I am 67. Diabetes - I've got type 2. Heart disease and lung disease - I've got both of those."
Mr Talbot lives with his wife and two children, but said if the virus did come into the house he would remain in an isolated part of it.
Dr Amir Khan, a GP, said Mr Talbot was "quite sensible" due to his conditions, but said people who have questions should refer to NHS 111 services.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Chesterfield man's body 'cut up and hidden around town'

A man cut up another man and hid his body parts around a town , including in a badger sett , a court has heard .
Body parts belonging to Graham Snell , 71 , were first found in Chesterfield in July following his death the previous month , Derby Crown Court was told .
His head and arms were not found until February the following year .
Daniel Walsh , 30 , of Marsden Street , Chesterfield , denies murder but has admitted he chopped up and hid Mr Snell 's body .
Peter Joyce QC , for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Snell 's death , Mr Walsh bought saws and rubble sacks to use in the disposal of the body .
Jurors heard Mr Walsh took the torso in a bin in a taxi on 27 June and the driver noticed a smell .
`` Daniel Walsh told the driver he was at work as a gardener and was using the compost as parts of his employment , '' Mr Joyce said .
The court heard the bin was then left next to other rubbish outside flats in Oakamoor Close before being found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walsh later took black bags containing legs and other body parts in a second taxi to Barbon Close where he buried them in a badger sett .
Mr Joyce said the head and arms were eventually found buried in woodland a short distance away from the sett .
• Latest news and stories from the East Midlands The jury was told Mr Snell had visited Chesterfield Police Station on the day he died and complained Mr Walsh would stay at his house without being invited and stole his money .
An officer visited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again when no-one answered the door .
Mr Joyce said Mr Walsh `` went on a spending spree '' with money obtained from Mr Snell 's bank account , including trips to casinos in Sheffield and arcades in Matlock Bath .
Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram .
Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews @ bbc.co.uk .

The court heard the bin was then left next to other bins outside flats in Oakamoor Close before the torso was found in communal rubbish on 2 July.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: Timing of phase two management is 'critical'

Scotland 's health secretary has said `` timing is critical '' when moving to the second stage of coronavirus management .
The UK is currently in the containment stage , while the next phase is a delay of the peak number of cases .
There have now been 27 confirmed coronavirus cases in Scotland .
Jeane Freeman said there was `` no evidence '' of transmission within the community but it was expected the UK would be moved to the delay phase `` relatively soon '' .
This could involve the closure of schools and the cancellation of large public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work from home and discouraged from using public transport .
Moving to the delay phase would seek to push back the peak of the epidemic to the summer .
Ms Freeman said : `` Timing is critical , if we take them too soon it will not have the impact we need , if we take them too late we will not reduce demand to the level required .
`` It is no exaggeration to say that continuing with simple measures like hand washing and sneezing etiquette could help the reduction of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help save lives . ''
In a ministerial statement on Tuesday , Ms Freeman said plans to combat the spread of the virus included scaling up NHS 24 , telephone consultations and bringing back retired nurses to cope with increased demand .
Ms Freeman also said the Scottish government was exploring how to temporarily register nursing and medical students who are nearing the end of their training .
She added that an investment of £1.2m would be `` accelerated '' to support GP video conferencing .
Ms Freeman earlier told the health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ examining whether existing anti-viral medicines were effective against the coronavirus .
Her statement comes as travel restrictions came into effect across Italy on Tuesday .
Ms Freeman acknowledged that the public would be `` looking to the situation in other countries '' and questioning why the UK had not taken similar precautions .
She said : `` No measure has been ruled out and the actions we take may develop over time and may be added to as we seek to manage the impact of the infection and protect life .
`` If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection curve we will give our NHS the best chance to be able to treat the sickest patients to the very best of its ability .
The timing of actions guided by the scientific evidence is being tailored to have the maximum effect on flattening that infection curve . ''
Scotland 's national clinical director earlier advised against the public taking panic measures to cope with the arrival of coronavirus .
Prof Jason Leitch advised against stockpiling items like soap and urged anyone with chronic health conditions to `` behave sensibly and normally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that current advice was not to ban public gatherings in the UK .
Prof Leitch echoed the call to follow the most up-to-date advice , particularly those who suffer from chronic health conditions .
He said : `` Just know the advice for those people is to go about their business as usual .
Do n't panic buy .
Make sure you 've got your medicines in place .
Make sure you have got friends and family who can look after you and know where you are . ''
On the subject of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's not only you washing your hands , you need your friends to wash their hands so you need to leave them some soap . ''
There have been 2,207 negative test results in Scotland so far .
One of the latest positive test results was an an employee of oil giant Shell in Aberdeen .
The Scottish government issued guidance on Monday on preventing the spread of the virus in the workplace .
Many large food venues in Scotland have also said they are taking extra measures to prevent the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand sanitizer points , extra signage for customers and increased deep cleaning .
How do you treat coronavirus ?
According to Prof Leitch , it is thought coronavirus has about a five-day incubation period .
At present people who go into intensive care with coronavirus are principally given help for pneumonia .
Prof Leitch said : `` The reason people are sick is pneumonia and therefore you need to give their body time to recover from the pneumonia because this is n't about bacteria , you ca n't give it antibiotics .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we may never get - then we have to support the individual to recover themselves . ''
Anyone who has general questions about the virus can call the Scottish government helpline , he added .
If people think they have possible symptoms , they should call their GP or NHS 24 by dialling 111 out-of-hours .
Advice is also available on the NHS Inform website .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guide to the outbreak

"If the action we take can flatten the infection curve we will give our NHS the best chance to be able to treat the sickest patients to the very best of its ability. The timing of actions guided by the scientific evidence is being tailored to have the maximum effect on flattening that infection curve."


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: Sixteen confirmed cases in Northern Ireland

Four new cases of coronavirus have been confirmed by the Department of Health , bringing the total number of cases in Northern Ireland to 16 .
All four cases are adults and one case involved travel from northern Italy .
Three of the cases can be traced to a previously reported case that involved recent travel to northern Italy .
Meanwhile , the Western Health Trust has asked people not to visit patients in its hospitals and community facilities unless it is `` absolutely essential '' .
It also appealed to those attending appointments to come alone .
The Public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for all four new cases in Northern Ireland .
In a tweet , the Public Health Agency said that there have been 237 tests carried out in Northern Ireland , of which 221 have been negative .
In the Republic of Ireland , 10 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed on Tuesday bringing the total to 34 .
In the UK , six people have died from the virus while it has been confirmed that Health Minister Nadine Dorries has become the first MP to test positive for the illness .
• EASY @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Speaking after a meeting of the EU Council , Taoiseach ( Irish PM ) Leo Varadkar said leaders agreed their highest priority `` must be protecting public health and human life preventing the spread of the virus and working to mitigate its impact on our people '' .
`` We agreed funding research in Europe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a vaccine as rapidly as possible , '' he said .
`` We agreed the need for a coordinated approach for the procurement of medicines , medical devices and protective equipments . ''
Mr Varadkar said European leaders had also considered the potential economic impact of this crisis which , he said , could be `` severe and long lasting '' .
Leaders agreed the `` necessary flexibilities '' would be made available .
He said health and other relevant ministers would talk to each other on a daily basis .
Disruption @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continues , with the first and deputy first ministers announcing the cancellation of their planned trip to Washington DC .
Northern Ireland 's largest cinema chain has announced a 'seat separation ' policy - in which every other seat will be left empty - while St Patrick 's Day parades in Londonderry , Newry and Downpatrick have been cancelled .
Northern Ireland Finance Minister Conor Murphy met Treasury officials on Tuesday in London along with counterparts in Scotland and Wales .
He said he would work to ensure that Northern Ireland gets the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to mitigate any economic damage caused by coronavirus .
`` I would intend to continue that conversation because as this unfolds , none of us know what the full impact will be , '' he told MLAs in Belfast .
Dr Michael McBride , Northern Ireland 's chief medical officer , said he is anticipating `` increased numbers of cases over the next weeks and months '' .
`` That wo n't be a sign of failure but it will be evidence that this virus continues to spread and we will , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see the emergence of community transmission . ''
He added that no one in Northern Ireland had yet suffered from severe illness because of coronavirus and people `` can be reassured that for the vast majority of people this is a mild to moderate illness '' .
Meanwhile , the UK Foreign Office has warned against all but essential travel to Italy .
An FCO spokesman said : `` The advice is that anyone who arrives from Italy subsequent to the Italian government decision should now self-isolate for 14 days . ''
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures to the entire country from Tuesday .
Irish Tánaiste Simon Coveney has also upgraded advice to Irish citizens , recommending against travel to the whole of Italy .


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: Nine new cases in Wales brings total to 15

Nine more individuals in Wales have tested positive for coronavirus , health officials confirmed on Tuesday evening .
It brings the number of cases in the nation to 15 , after the first case was confirmed in Swansea 12 days ago .
Wales ' chief medical officer said seven of the new infections were identified following a resident in the Neath Port Talbot area contracting the virus .
The other two new cases are from the Carmarthenshire area and had recently returned from northern Italy .
Five of the new cases linked to the first Neath Port Talbot patient identified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council area .
Another is from Swansea , while the seventh is a resident in the Cardiff area .
Earlier on Tuesday , a call centre in Cardiff was closed after an individual there was diagnosed with Covid-19 .
The Sky contact centre was evacuated at 14:30 GMT and is undergoing a `` deep clean '' .
In a statement , Sky said : `` We can confirm that a Sky colleague in our Cardiff contact centre has been diagnosed with Covid-19 and they are self-isolating at home . ''
Sky 's senior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office would re-open on Thursday , adding : `` Protecting our people is - and always will be - our top priority and so we are closing the contact centre today and sending everyone home as a precaution .
`` We 're contacting anyone who has been in contact with our colleague . ''
Public Health Wales has not revealed whether this is the case it has identified in the city , adding it had a `` responsibility to protect individuals tested and patients being treated '' .
• EASY STEPS : How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
`` The process of identifying and contacting close contacts of the new cases is under way , and we are taking all appropriate actions to protect the public 's health , '' said Chief Medical Officer Dr Frank Atherton .
`` The nine new patients are being managed in clinically appropriate settings based on the assessment of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Wales has now opened a number of community testing units ( CTUs ) across the country .
In north Wales , Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said it had opened three drive-through units at Rossett Clinic in Wrexham , Bryn y Neuadd Hospital in Llanfairfechan , Conwy county , and Ysbyty Alltwen in Porthmadog , Gwynedd .
Hywel Dda University Health Board has also opened two CTUs - one in Cardigan in Ceredigion and another in Carmarthen .
Swansea Bay University Health Board said it had opened a drive-through testing centre in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the M4 .
Visits to all units must be arranged through the 111 service .
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford has warned assembly members the coronavirus outbreak could put `` enormous strain '' on public services in Wales , including the NHS .
Across the UK , the number of coronavirus cases has now reached 382 , with a sixth person dying from the virus .
`` We have always been clear that we expected the number of positive cases to increase , which is in line with what has happened in other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dr Atherton .
He said the investigation identifying seven people in Neath Port Talbot showed contact tracing and community testing by Public Health Wales `` is working as it should '' .
`` I 'd like to take this opportunity to assure the public that Wales and the whole of the UK is prepared for these types of incidents , '' he reiterated .
`` Working with our partners in Wales and the UK , we have implemented our planned response , with robust infection control measures in place to protect the health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK Foreign Office warned Britons against all but essential travel to Italy after the country extended its coronavirus measures , including travel restrictions • Italian tourists have been told to self-isolate on arrival in Britain as several UK airlines cancelled flights to and from Italian airports • The owner of Nottingham Forest FC , Evangelos Marinakis , has tested positive after returning from Greece • Staff at chocolate maker Cadbury are having their temperatures taken as a `` precautionary measure '' • Great Ormond Street children 's hospital cancelled some non-essential cardiac operations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in its cardiology department tested positive for the virus • Royal Bank of Scotland said it would allow customers to defer mortgage payments if needed • The NHS partnered with technology firms to help promote official health advice online • And new research showed that , on average , it took five days for people to show symptoms of the virus Italy 's extended quarantine measures require residents to stay home , seek permission for essential travel , and justify leaving the country .

"We have always been clear that we expected the number of positive cases to increase, which is in line with what has happened in other parts of the world," said Dr Atherton.


bbcuk--2020-03-10--Coronavirus: Ski pupils to self-isolate after Italy trip cut short

A British school party which arrived in Italy just before the country launched its coronavirus lockdown has had to abandon its trip .
Pupils from Welbourn , Lincolnshire , arrived at the Alpine ski resort of Courmayeur at the weekend .
But as emergency measures were extended , ski lifts were closed and no alternative sites could be arranged .
Sir William Robertson Academy said no restrictions were in place at the time of departure .
Head teacher Mark Guest said staff had made all necessary checks with officials before setting off .
Mr Guest said the school had also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ France , but these were ruled out due to lack of insurance cover .
In a letter to parents , he also thanked pupils for `` their resilience and cheerfulness despite the disappointment of their trip being cut short '' .
`` As you may be aware , the guidance for travellers returning from Italy has changed overnight , '' he wrote .
`` The current guidance is that anyone returning - from any part of Italy - should self-isolate for 14 days , even if they are exhibiting no symptoms .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were `` aware when they collected their children this morning that this would be the likely outcome '' .
Arrangements were being made for pupils , who arrived back in Lincolnshire earlier , to work from home , he added .
On Monday , Italy 's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte ordered people to stay home and seek permission for essential travel .
It comes as the coronavirus death toll jumped from 366 to 463 , making it the worst-hit country after China .
Cases of the virus have been confirmed in all 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What can I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• IMMUNITY : Are women and children less affected ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • VIDEO : How to self isolate

He said parents had been kept updated and were "aware when they collected their children this morning that this would be the likely outcome".