bbcuk--2020-03-08--Budget 2020: Should we expect a coronavirus Budget?

Will Chancellor Rishi Sunak 's first Budget on Wednesday go down in history as the `` coronavirus Budget '' ?
The latest round of pre-Budget press coverage takes it as read that he will announce extra cash for efforts to combat the virus .
Mr Sunak himself told the BBC 's Andrew Marr the government was looking at `` a range of scenarios '' and making sure it was well prepared for all of them .
But he refused to be drawn on details about which financial measures he was planning .
He said the government would give the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get through this '' and added that he was looking at `` options to provide temporary support to small businesses '' .
The chancellor also said there would be financial help to people hit by the coronavirus who did not qualify for statutory sick pay , but were being asked to self-isolate instead of going out to work .
`` People should not be penalised for doing the right thing , '' he said .
Mr Sunak was obviously at pains to strike a reassuring note , but his comments underlined that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is going to be .
On the one hand , many commentators think the coronavirus will inhibit Mr Sunak 's efforts to reshape the UK 's economy , with more dramatic measures postponed until this year 's second Budget in the autumn .
On the other hand , the chancellor 's political opponents are calling for him to grasp the nettle now .
Speaking on the same BBC programme , shadow chancellor John McDonnell said Mr Sunak 's debut would be `` the most important Budget since the Second World War '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not only the coronavirus , but also climate change and what he described as the `` absolute crisis '' in health and social care .
`` My advice to Rishi Sunak is , do n't put things off , '' Mr McDonnell told Mr Marr .
• NHS will get 'whatever it needs ' for coronavirus • Flood defence funding to be doubled in Budget The Institute for Fiscal Studies is also keen to see Mr Sunak act decisively to combat the coronavirus .
IFS director Paul Johnson called for a two-pronged response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public services continue to deliver and that benefits provide appropriate support to households over coming months .
Second , to minimise the extent to which a temporary downturn causes permanent damage to the economy and therefore our living standards . ''
As you might expect , Mr Sunak is being cagey about the contents of the Budget , telling questioners they will have to wait until Wednesday for the details .
But that has n't stopped the newspapers from speculating about individual measures - including , in some cases , some surprisingly precise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` windfall for families '' , heralding plans to pay an extra £160 a week to parents of new-born babies who fall ill .
In its own interview with Mr Sunak , the Sunday Telegraph quotes him as announcing a £400m investment package aimed at getting up to 6,000 rough sleepers off the streets According to the Mail on Sunday , Mr Sunak is expected to announce a £320m business rates stimulus package that will allow some independent shops to claim discounts worth tens of thousands of pounds .
However , at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government is launching a legal bid to try to prevent shopkeepers who operate cash machines receiving business rate refunds worth £430m .
The Independent has commissioned a survey which it says shows support for higher property taxes to fund spending on the NHS , social care and the fight against climate change .
The poll by BMG found that a `` mansion tax '' on properties worth more than £1m was backed by 63 % of those questioned , while 16 % opposed it .
But the paper admits that the tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Budget , echoing media reports elsewhere that the idea was considered , then shelved after a backlash from Conservative MPs and voters .
And the Observer reckons that plans to kickstart the government 's `` levelling up '' agenda will probably be delayed until the autumn Budget .
That phrase , much used by government ministers , has drawn criticism from some commentators who describe it as essentially meaningless .
But Mr Sunak said that for him , it was about `` supporting opportunity '' and making sure that people 's prospects in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were born or grew up .

The chancellor also said there would be financial help to people hit by the coronavirus who did not qualify for statutory sick pay, but were being asked to self-isolate instead of going out to work.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Boris Johnson defends record on visiting flood-hit Bewdley

Floods : Why do some places flood ?
In less than 10 days , the UK ’ s been hit @ @ @ @ @ one called Ciara and one called Dennis .
It 's meant some places have been @ @ @ @ @ that happen ?

The Prime Minister has visited Bewdley in Worcestershire, where the River Severn overtopped the flood defences during Storm Dennis last month.
Boris Johnson was asked by the BBC why he did not visit the flooded communities sooner, as he was given a tour of defences by the Environment Agency.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--International Women's Day marked with marches and protests

Marches to raise awareness of discrimination against women have taken place around the world to mark International Women 's Day @ @ @ @ @ have been marking 8 March as a special day for women , for more than @ @ @

Marches to raise awareness of discrimination against women have taken place around the world to mark International Women's Day.
People around the world have been marking 8 March as a special day for women, for more than a century.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Coronavirus: NHS to get 'whatever it needs' to cope says chancellor

UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak has told the BBC 's Andrew Marr the NHS will get `` whatever resources it needs @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus outbreak .
It comes as Italy announced it would quarantine a quarter of its @ @ @ @ @ emergency legislation by the UK government to control Covid-19 .

UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak has told the BBC's Andrew Marr the NHS will get "whatever resources it needs" to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.
It comes as Italy announced it would quarantine a quarter of its population and the outlining of emergency legislation by the UK government to control Covid-19.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Coronavirus: Logistics expert explains how a toilet roll reaches supermarket shelves

Logistics expert Dr Andrew Potter explained how toilet roll reaches supermarket shelves after reports of stockpiling over coronavirus .
This @ @ @ @ @ Live Weekend Breakfast on Sunday 8th March 2020 .

Logistics expert Dr Andrew Potter explained how toilet roll reaches supermarket shelves after reports of stockpiling over coronavirus.
This Clip is originally from 5 Live Weekend Breakfast on Sunday 8th March 2020.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Coronavirus: Newcastle breath test has to trial outside UK

A scientist developing a test to diagnose coronavirus says he is not able to trial it in the UK .
Northumbria University associate professor Sterghios Moschos is leading research into a device to collect breath samples which could be tested in minutes .
If trials show it can detect the virus its results could be quicker and more reliable than current tests , he says .
The government agency responsible has been approached for comment .
Dr Moschos said UK infectious diseases units had `` elected not to carry out testing '' of his kit .
He accepted infection control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the simple thing of 'Can you please breathe into this ' might be a lot more complicated in practice than it might seem '' .
However , clinicians in Europe are prepared to test the kits and will receive them within the next week , he said .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• WHAT DOES IT DO TO THE BODY ?
Doctors on the front line explain • HOW IS THE UK PREPARING ?
The government 's plans Dr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contamination and false negative results , he said .
Current tests mostly use nose and throat swabs because chest samples are only available if the patient coughs up mucus .
However chest samples are far more reliable and , as a result , about 10 % of current tests return a false negative result , Dr Moschos said .
Data in papers released by Chinese researchers `` state in no uncertain terms that the swab method that is being used worldwide right now is not reliable '' , he said .
He believes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has circulated in the chest .
If trials show coronavirus can be detected on breath , further research would show if the test is more reliable than those currently available .
Given the number of patients with coronavirus , this would not take more than a few weeks , Dr Moschos said .
But a deluge of cases might mean clinicians do not have the time and `` people like me have an obligation to stay behind and away so that people are cared for '' , he said .
Follow BBC North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Instagram .
Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria @ bbc.co.uk .

But a deluge of cases might mean clinicians do not have the time and "people like me have an obligation to stay behind and away so that people are cared for", he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Number of Scottish coronavirus cases rises to 18

The total number of people who have tested positive for coronavirus now stands at 18 , the Scottish government has confirmed .
Two more people have been found to be carrying the virus since Saturday , when the figure stood at 16 .
The additional cases were in Glasgow and Lothian .
Of 1,957 coronavirus tests carried out in Scotland , 1,939 were negative .
By 09:00 on Sunday , there were 273 positive tests across the UK as a whole .
That marks a rise of 67 on Saturday - the highest single day increase since the first reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said she expected the number of positive tests to rise `` perhaps rapidly in the days to come '' .
`` It is now likely that we are facing a significant outbreak of coronavirus across the UK , '' she added .
However , the `` vast majority '' of infected people would experience only very mild symptoms and would not need hospital treatment .
Earlier Ms Sturgeon warned that ministers face `` difficult judgements '' to slow the spread of the virus .
She said they may have to consider closing schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotstoun sports complex in Glasgow remains closed for deep cleaning after it was used by a woman who has tested positive for coronavirus .
The woman is a member of Scotland 's women 's rugby team and their Six Nations game against France on Saturday was cancelled .
In Argyll , a GP has asked patients to stay away from the surgery to reduce the risk of spreading the virus .
Dr Robert Coull said appointments at Strachur Medical Practice would now be telephone-only .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

Two more people have been found to be carrying the virus since Saturday, when the figure stood at 16. The additional cases were in Glasgow and Lothian.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Coronavirus: Five more people diagnosed in NI

Five more cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Northern Ireland .
It brings the total number of people in Northern Ireland with the virus to 12 since testing began .
Health officials are tracing people who may have been in contact with the latest cases .
Meanwhile , two more cases have been confirmed in the Republic of Ireland , bringing the total number there to 21 .
One of the patients has an underlying condition and is seriously ill. Health officials said both cases were community transmissions and did not involve people who had returned recently from at-risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Northern Ireland on Saturday and five more on Sunday .
On Sunday night , it was announced a man in his 60s had become the third person in the UK to die after testing positive for coronavirus .
A number of amateur football teams in Northern Ireland have postponed matches and cancelled training after a player was among those to test positive for coronavirus .
The player represents Portadown-based team Hanover FC , and the other clubs affected are Coagh United in County Tyrone and Glenavy-based Crewe United in County Antrim .

When asked about her plans to travel to the United States, along with Deputy First Minister Ms O'Neill, this week, she said: "The reason we go is because we have very good access to the leader of the US and businesses, but we have to balance that with the needs here in the UK so we will be looking at that in the coming hours."


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Coronavirus: Two more cases in Wales brings total to four

Two more people in Wales have tested positive for the coronavirus , taking the total number in Wales to four .
The two latest cases are members of the same household in Pembrokeshire who had travelled back from northern Italy , Wales ' chief medical officer has said .
Both individuals have been in self-isolation since their return and are being managed in a `` clinically appropriate setting '' .
Public Health Wales ( PHW ) said it was identifying their close contacts .
Meanwhile , the Welsh Government has confirmed that emergency legislation introduced by the UK government would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public can be assured that Wales and the whole of the UK is prepared for these types of incidents , '' said Dr Giri Shankar , from PHW .
`` 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 of the public . ''
The nationwide steps came as a man in this 60s became the third person in the UK to die after testing positive for coronavirus , on Sunday .
The man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health problems , died at North Manchester General Hospital , NHS England said .
The number of UK cases has risen to 273 - up from 209 on Saturday .
Wales ' other two cases , one person from Swansea and one from Cardiff , had also returned from northern Italy .
Elsewhere , Italy has placed millions of people under quarantine as it battles to contain the spread of the virus .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Wales ' chief medical officer Dr Frank Atherton said : `` I can confirm that two additional individuals in Wales have tested positive for coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , bringing the total number of positive cases in Wales to four .
`` All appropriate measures to provide care for the individuals and to reduce the risk of transmission to others are being taken . ''
A new symptom checker for suspected coronavirus has been launched online by the Welsh NHS as attempts continue to halt the spread of the virus .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be the `` first port of call '' as the NHS 111 telephone lines are `` very busy '' .
And a car park for an old medical clinic is doubling up as Wales ' first drive-through coronavirus testing centre at Rossett , near Wrexham .
As of Friday , 634 people in Wales had been tested for the virus , according to PHW .
The tests are being conducted by specialists with about 90 % being carried out in people 's own homes .
Wales ' Health Secretary Vaughan Gething confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposed emergency legislation - which would include allowing workers to temporarily leave their jobs and could see retired health professionals registered again - would apply to all four UK nations .
He said a range of those powers would be for ministers in Wales to exercise .
`` These emergency powers will allow us to respond quickly and effectively to the Covid-19 outbreak by strengthening quarantine and mass gathering powers , '' he said .
`` These powers are an important , proportionate and coordinated response to help us do that . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the outbreak should be `` distributed on the basis of need '' , Wales ' Finance Minister Rebecca Evans said on Sunday .
She told BBC 's Politics Wales the Welsh Government was `` currently managing to deal with the coronavirus within our existing financial budget in respect of the NHS '' .
The minister said she intended to raise the point at a meeting with the UK government 's chief treasury secretary on Tuesday .

"The public can be assured that Wales and the whole of the UK is prepared for these types of incidents," said Dr Giri Shankar, from PHW.


bbcuk--2020-03-08--Holy Island causeway: Five rescued submerged cars

Five people , a dog and a wedding dress were rescued by lifeboat when two cars became engulfed by a rising tide .
They were stranded on the causeway between Holy Island and the Northumberland coast , with waves splashing on the windows and the vehicles filling with water .
There are signs on either side of the link road warning people to pay attention to tide times .
The RNLI lifeboat from Seahouses was launched to rescue the passengers .
Ian Clayton , Seahouses Lifeboat operations manager , said : `` This was a call that required a quick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ float , and were at risk of being washed away , which could have resulted in loss of life .
`` Good co-operation with our colleagues from the Coastguard , Berwick RNLI , Northumbria Police and North East Ambulance ensured a potentially dangerous situation was safely managed with a positive outcome . ''
An elderly couple were rescued from one car and an ambulance was called because crews feared they might have hypothermia , the RNLI said .
Two parents , their young child and a dog were in the second car .

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bbcuk--2020-03-09--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson to hold emergency Cobra meeting

The prime minister is chairing an emergency Cobra meeting to decide whether to bring in measures to delay the spread of coronavirus in the UK .
The meeting is expected to consider whether `` social distancing '' measures should be phased in .
These could include banning of big events , closing schools and encouraging home working .
It comes after a man in his 60s became the UK 's third death linked to the Covid-19 virus .
Ministers are also meeting with sports bodies and UK supermarkets to discuss their response to the outbreak .
Another two cases of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday morning , bringing the UK total to 280 .
The UK is currently in the first phase - `` containment '' - of the government 's four-part plan to tackle the spread of coronavirus .
The Cobra meeting is expected to consider whether the UK should officially move into the `` delay '' phase .
The government has previously said `` social distancing '' measures to slow the spread of the virus could include a ban on sporting events and other large gatherings , and encouraging people to work from home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Such a step would require agreement from chief medical officer Prof Chris Whitty and chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance , who are due to be at the meeting .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak But Culture , Media and Sport Secretary Oliver Dowden told BBC Breakfast that he and the prime minister watched the England versus Wales Six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the current medical advice was that there was no reason to avoid or cancel sports events .
He said : `` We are guided by the facts and we are guided by the evidence .
At the moment the advice is clear from the chief medical officer : there is n't a need to cancel such events . ''
Sports governing bodies are meeting ministers to discuss the possibility of staging events behind closed doors in future , however .
'The next stage of the coronavirus fight' It seems certain we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight against coronavirus , probably this week .
That will involve going from trying to contain the spread of the virus to accepting there is going to be community transmission and looking at ways to slow its spread .
There are plenty of drastic options on the table from closing schools to banning public gatherings .
But health officials are unlikely to recommend these immediately .
Instead , it will be a more gradual , phased approach .
That could involve people being asked to consider ways we can all reduce our social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home , staggering our commute or cutting back on socialising .
The government 's clear message will be that we all have a role to play in tackling this - as individuals , as employers and as communities .
A European Union expert said the UK had only a `` few days '' to implement measures to prevent an outbreak like Italy 's , which is the worst outside China with 7,375 confirmed cases and 366 deaths .
Sergio Brusin from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control told the BBC 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in the same situation Italy was two weeks ago . ''
Environment Secretary George Eustice will also discuss contingency plans with supermarket chief executives , including proposals on how to support vulnerable groups who may have to self-isolate .
As supermarkets restrict sales of some products to halt panic-buying , a survey suggested one in 10 shoppers are stockpiling .
Both the government and retailers say stockpiling is unnecessary .
The latest person to die - a man in his 60s with significant underlying health problems - had recently returned from Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The man was being treated at the specialist infectious diseases unit in North Manchester General Hospital after testing positive for coronavirus .
Prof Whitty said health officials were tracing people who may have been in contact with the man while he was carrying the virus .
The Foreign Office has warned Britons to avoid large parts of northern Italy under a coronavirus quarantine , unless their journey is essential .
Those travelling from locked-down areas have also been advised to self-isolate if they returned to the UK in the last 14 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms .
Travellers from the rest of Italy are only told to self-isolate and call 111 if they have a cough , fever or shortness of breath .
British nationals are still able to depart Italy without restriction , but some airlines have cancelled flights to and from affected areas .
Mr Dowden , the culture secretary , told BBC Radio 5 Live `` enhanced measures '' were in place to screen passengers from Italy - but the only one he identified was training airline staff to spot the symptoms of Covid-19 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from northern Italy are also issued with information about symptoms and necessary actions to take , which will be extended to all flights from Italy by Wednesday .
The Foreign Office said it is `` working intensively '' to arrange a flight home for 140 Britons on board the Grand Princess cruise ship , which is quarantined off the coast of California after 21 people tested positive for the coronavirus .
Neil Hanlon , from Bridgwater in Somerset , told BBC Breakfast that food on board has become `` very limited '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may take until later in the week until he and his wife Victoria can fly home .
Amid concerns that fake news about the coronavirus is causing confusion , a specialist unit to combat disinformation has been set up .
Teams from across Whitehall have been brought together to identify and respond to disinformation in a bid to limit its spread .
As of Sunday , 23,513 people had been tested across the UK , with 273 cases proving positive for the virus .
On Sunday evening , five more cases in Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the country to 12 and 278 in the UK .
And on Monday morning , two more people in Wales tested positive for the coronavirus , taking the total number there to six and bringing the UK total to 280 .
• A hospital worker at University Hospital Southampton has tested positive for the virus and is now isolated at home • The FTSE 100 index of shares plunged by 8 % when trading began amid fears over coronavirus and the threat of an oil price war between Opec countries and Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidance to prevent the spread of the virus , including recommending that phones are cleaned routinely • One person at the University of the West of Scotland has tested positive for the coronavirus , but the university says its campuses remain open as normal Have you or anyone else you know been affected by the coronavirus ?
You can tell us your story by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
You can also contact us in the following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of use and privacy policy


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Shares plunge in worst day since financial crisis

The UK 's top share index is facing its worst day since the financial crisis after it fell 8 % in early trade , wiping billions off the value of major firms .
The drop follows global falls as a row between Russia and Saudi Arabia saw oil prices plunge by more than a fifth .
Shares were already reeling from fears of the impact of the coronavirus as cases globally continue to rise .
The day has already been dubbed `` Black Monday '' by analysts who described the market reaction as `` utter carnage '' .
The FTSE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the first few minutes of trade , before recovering slightly .
Oil prices are down more than 20 % with Brent crude trading at $ 35.98 a barrel .
`` It shows a level of nervousness in the market which I have n't seen in a long time , '' said Justin Urquhart-Stewart , co-founder of Seven Investment Management .
Investors are selling stocks at such a rate because they can not quantify what Saudi Arabia and Russia might do , he said .
Oil firms saw the biggest falls , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by about 15 % , while Premier Oil saw its shares more than halve in value .
The hefty falls were also seen elsewhere in Europe , with stock markets in France and Germany also opening more than 7 % lower .
Norway - a major oil exporter - saw its main stock exchange fall 12 % in early trade .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people with a pension - either private or through work - who will see their savings ( in what is known as a defined contribution pension ) invested by pension schemes .
The value of their savings pot is influenced by the performance of these investments .
Pension savers mostly let experts choose where to invest this money to help it grow .
Widespread falls in share prices are likely to be bad news for pension savers .
As much as £600bn is held in defined contribution pensions at the moment .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pension , but the advice is to remember that pension savings , like any investments , are usually a long-term bet .
The price of oil had already fallen sharply this year as the coronavirus disease began to spread internationally , with demand for fuel expected to decline .
Last week , oil exporters ' group Opec - which includes Saudi Arabia - agreed to cut production in order to support prices .
However , it also wanted non-Opec oil producers such as Russia to agree to cuts , and on Friday Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saudi Arabia has cut its official selling prices for oil and plans to increase production .
The move is seen as Saudi Arabia flexing its muscles in the oil market to make Russia fall into line .
Michelle Wiese Bockmann , commodities analyst and editor for Lloyds List , said that the oil market has changed over the last few years and Saudi Arabia is scrambling to maintain its position in the market .
While cuts in production from Venezuela , Iran and Libya should have sent prices up , the US and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stepped in at every turn , depressing prices .
`` It 's already a very volatile situation , '' she said .
The market has `` gone from an issue over economic demand into more of a political game of poker '' , Mr Urquhart-Stewart said .
Given that Saudi Arabia has some of the lowest costs of production , they can send prices down a long way before having to relent , he added .
Asian investors also reacted to a slump in Chinese export figures and the shrinking of the Japanese @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shanghai Composite share index fell 3 % , while in Hong Kong , the Hang Seng index sank 4.2 % .
On Saturday , China released import and export figures for the first two months of the year .
Exports fell by 17.2 % while imports dropped by 4 % .
This gave the Chinese economy a trade deficit of $ 7.1 billion as it struggles with the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak .
Japan 's economy shrank at a faster rate than initially estimated in the final three months of 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
An awful day for stock markets , but the oil market positively fell out of bed when the week began .
The price of crude oil is about half the level it hit in early January .
The root cause of that is the coronavirus .
It has hit demand for oil and some of the big exporters have been trying to stabilise its price .
Last week a group of them discussed production cuts .
But the biggest producer among them , Russia refused and the oil price fell further .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the biggest of the producers that were pressing Russia to agree output cuts , announced it would increase supplies and offered discounts to its buyers .
That sent the oil price into freefall .
That in turn undermined stock markets , although it was n't the only factor .
The lower oil price is a problem for the credit markets .
Many American shale producers are likely to be unviable and they have borrowed in the high risk debt market , issuing what are called junk bonds .
So there is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those bonds .
Cheaper oil is obviously a benefit for users .
Airlines have been hit by a decline in bookings , but cheaper fuel will offset that a little .
And in time , there will be an impact on the price that motorists pay , although in many countries , including Britain , tax accounts for most of what they pay .

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) invested by pension schemes. The value of their savings pot is influenced by the performance of these investments.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--London shooting: Knifeman shot dead by Westminster police

A knifeman has been shot dead by armed police officers in central London .
The man was seen `` acting @ @ @ @ @ at 23:25 GMT on Sunday , and pulled out two knives when he was challenged @ @ @ @ @ Scotland Yard said .
Armed officers responded and a Taser and gun were fired .
@ @ @ @ @ by the London Ambulance Service in Great Scotland Yard but the incident is not being @ @ @ @ @ No members of the public or police officers were injured and inquires are ongoing , @ @ @ @ @ number of road closures remain in place in the area .
Uniformed police officers manned @ @ @ @ @ leading to Great Scotland Yard , and on parts of Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall near @ @ @ @ @ Directorate of Professional Standards and the Independent Office for Police Conduct have been informed of @ @ @

"Our thoughts are with our colleagues as they now go through the post-incident process, and it goes without saying that they have our full support," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Harry and Meghan in last public engagement as working royals

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are due to make their final public appearance as working members of the Royal Family .
Prince Harry and Meghan will join the Queen and other royals at the Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey on Monday afternoon .
The couple have been carrying out a series of public appearances in the UK before stepping back as working royals .
From 31 March , they will stop using their HRH titles and receiving public money .
The duke and duchess will gather with the Queen - who is head of the Commonwealth - the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cornwall and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in the central London cathedral .
It will be the first time the couple have appeared with other members of the Royal Family since announcing their intention to `` step back '' as senior royals in January .
After the service , they are expected to return to their current base in Canada , where their son , Archie , has remained during the UK trip .
It is where the couple are to begin their new life of personal independence , pursuing private commercial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Meghan will retain use of Frogmore Cottage , in Windsor , and aides have said they will be in the UK regularly .
They will still attend some royal events but these will not be classed as official duties .
The new arrangements will be reviewed next year .
The duke and duchess have conducted a farewell tour of the UK with several appearances including the Endeavour Fund Awards and a military musical festival at the Royal Albert Hall .
Meghan made a surprise visit to a school in Dagenham , east @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day .
Meanwhile , the duke joined Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton to visit a new motor racing museum at the Silverstone Circuit .
The couple have made supporting the Commonwealth a priority for their royal duties and overseas visits .
In stepping down as working royals , the duke will relinquish his role as Commonwealth Youth Ambassador .
But Harry will remain president of the Queen 's Commonwealth Trust and Meghan will still be the Trust 's vice-president .
In her Commonwealth Day message , the Queen has praised the diversity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traditions `` serves to make us stronger '' .
Heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medallist Anthony Joshua will deliver a reflection at the service , while singers Alexandra Burke and Craig David will perform .
The Duke of York will be absent from this year 's service , having resigned from royal duties following criticism of his BBC Newsnight interview over his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein .
The Commonwealth Day service will be broadcast live on BBC One from 14:15 GMT and across the BBC World Service .

Less than two years after she arrived, Meghan is walking away from royal life. And the man she married, who was born into that life, is going with her.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--PC Harper murder trial: Accused teens admit bike theft plot

Two teenagers accused of murdering a police officer have admitted conspiracy to steal a quad bike .
The pair , @ @ @ @ @ and can not be named for legal reasons , pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey @ @ @ @ @ bike .
They and a third man , Henry Long , 18 , are also @ @ @ @ @ Andrew Harper , which they deny .
PC Harper died from multiple injuries after being @ @ @ @ @ a vehicle near Sulhamstead , Berkshire .
The 28-year-old Thames Valley roads policing constable , @ @ @ @ @ , had been responding to reports of a break-in on August 15 last year .
@ @ @ @ @ Reading , has previously admitted manslaughter and conspiracy to steal a quad bike .
The @ @ @ @ @ The case before Mr Justice Edis is due to be opened by prosecutor Brian Altman @ @ @ @ @ continue for up to six weeks .

He said there was "no doubt" that PC Harper died "because he tried to help in the pursuit of these defendants who were in the course of trying to escape after stealing a quad bike".


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Alex Salmond to stand trial on sex offence charges

Alex Salmond is to stand trial on allegations that he sexually assaulted 10 women while serving as Scotland 's first minister .
The former SNP leader will face a total of 14 charges at the High Court in Edinburgh .
They include allegations of 10 sexual assaults , two indecent assaults , one attempted rape and an assault with intent to rape .
Mr Salmond says he is innocent , and has pled not guilty to all of the charges .
He has vowed to defend himself vigorously during the trial , which will be held before judge Lady Dorrian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public .
The trial is expected to last about four weeks .
• What to expect during the Alex Salmond trial It is alleged that the offences were committed at various locations across Scotland , including the Scottish Parliament and the first minister 's official Bute House residence in Edinburgh .
Mr Salmond , 65 , was first minister of Scotland from May 2007 until November 2014 , when he stood down in the wake of the country 's independence referendum .
What is Mr Salmond accused of ?
The charges , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out in an indictment which includes the specific details of the allegations against the former SNP leader .
As with all sexual offence cases in Scotland , the media is not allowed to publish the names of the 10 alleged victims or any other information that could identify them , unless they give permission .
The alleged attempted rape is said to have happened in June 2014 at the first minister 's official Bute House residence in Edinburgh .
He is alleged to have pinned a woman against a wall and to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before pushing her onto a bed and lying naked on top of her .
The other 13 charges allege that Mr Salmond : • Indecently assaulted a woman on a number of occasions in Glasgow in June and July 2008 by kissing her on the mouth and touching her buttocks and breasts with his hands over her clothing • Sexually assaulted the same woman in December 2010 or December 2011 in the Ego nightclub in Edinburgh by touching her arms and hips with his hands over her clothing • Indecently assaulted a woman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House by repeatedly seizing her by the wrists and repeatedly pulling her towards him and attempting to kiss her • Sexually assaulted a woman in a car in Edinburgh in February 2011 by touching her leg with his hand over her clothing • Sexually assaulted a woman on various occasions between 2011 and 2013 at Bute House , the Scottish Parliament and other locations by touching her buttocks with his hands over her clothing , stroking her arms , and touching and stroking her hair • Sexually assaulted a woman at Bute House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from her shoe , stroking her foot , lifting her foot towards his mouth and attempting to kiss her foot • Sexually assaulted a woman at Bute House in November or December 2013 by kissing her on the mouth • Intended to rape the same woman in December 2013 at Bute House by causing her to sit on a bed , lying on top of her , making sexual remarks to her , touching her buttocks , thighs and breasts over her clothing with his hands , repeatedly kissing her face , struggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Sexually assaulted a woman in 2012 at the Ubiquitous Chip restaurant in Glasgow by touching her buttocks with his hand over her clothing • Sexually assaulted the same woman at Bute House in April 2014 by placing his arm around her , making sexual remarks to her and attempting to kiss her • Sexually assaulted a woman at Bute House in May 2014 by placing his arm around her body , placing his hand under her clothing and underwear and touching her breast , repeatedly kissing her on the face and neck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Sexually assaulted a woman at Bute House in September 2014 by seizing her by the shoulders , repeatedly kissing her on the face , attempting to kiss her on the lips and touching her leg and face with his hand • Sexually assaulted a woman at Stirling Castle in November 2014 by touching her buttock with his hand over her clothing Mr Salmond says he is innocent of all the allegations against him , and has entered not guilty pleas to all 14 of the charges .

The witness said she tried to get up and make for the door, but Mr Salmond put his arm out and leaned over her, effectively pinning her against a wall, while touching her breast and continuing to attempt to kiss her while she was trying to "wrestle" out of it.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Croydon bus stabbing teenager dies

Croydon bus stabbing teenager dies

A teenager has been stabbed to death on a bus in south London .
The victim , believed to be @ @ @ @ @ when police were called to Whitehorse Lane in South Norwood , Croydon , at about @ @ @ @ @ The teenager was treated by paramedics but died at the scene 40 minutes later .
@ @ @ @ @ have been made .
A Section 60 order , giving police additional stop and search @ @ @ @ @ in place across several areas until 13:10 .
They are : Selhurst , Thornton Heath @ @ @ @ @ Norwood , Woodside , New Addington North and New Addington South .
Local roads were @ @ @ @ @ reopened .

The boy, believed to be 17, was found injured when police were called to Whitehorse Lane in South Norwood, Croydon, at about 20:30 GMT on Sunday.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Tesco sells its Asian stores in £8bn deal

UK retail giant Tesco has agreed to sell its operations in Thailand and Malaysia for ( $ 10.6bn ) £8bn .
The supermarket chain has 2,000 stores across both countries , under the Tesco Lotus brand , and is selling them to Thai conglomerate CP Group .
Chief executive Dave Lewis said the sale would allow Tesco `` to further simplify and focus '' its business .
He also said £5bn of the proceeds would be returned to shareholders via a special dividend .
Tesco revealed in December it had received interest for its Asian stores , which employ about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bidders .
Tesco 's only other overseas stores are in Ireland and in central Europe , including Poland and Hungary .
The retailer added that the sale would also slash debt and streamline the group , enabling a `` stronger focus '' on UK , Irish and central European activities .
The proposed sale was unanimously agreed by the Tesco board , but needs approval from shareholders and regulators .
The deal is set to be finalised in the second half of this year .
The move comes as Mr Lewis prepares @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overseen a major overhaul at Tesco during his five years in charge .
He has cut thousands of jobs as part of a massive cost-cutting programme .
CP Group is Thailand 's largest private company and one of the world 's largest conglomerates , owning more than 10,000 Seven Eleven stores and one of Asia 's largest telecommunications firms .
The group actually owned the stores - when they were known as Lotus - back in the late 1990s , but sold them to Tesco after losing money during the Asian financial crisis @ @ @

The group actually owned the stores - when they were known as Lotus - back in the late 1990s, but sold them to Tesco after losing money during the Asian financial crisis of 1997.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Coronavirus: British sporting events to continue as normal, says Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden

Sporting events in Britain are unlikely to be affected by coronavirus in the immediate future , says Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden .
Governing bodies and broadcasters will meet with government officials later on Monday to discuss the staging of events behind closed doors if the outbreak worsens and mass gatherings are banned .
Dowden told BBC Radio 5 Live : `` At this stage we 're not in the territory of cancelling or postponing events . ''
He added fans should not be barred .
`` I was at Twickenham [ for England v Wales ] with the Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` There was a huge crowd of people there .
There is no reason why people should not be going to those events .
It is very premature to be talking about things like that . ''
Dowden did add that the advice was based on the current guidance issued by the medical experts .
He added : `` That is why I asked the chief medical officer to brief the sporting bodies last week and that is why we will be driven by the advice of the chief medical officer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to emphasise in relation to sporting events , any talk of cancellation is very premature indeed .
At the moment there is no evidence to suggest we should be doing that and we do n't have any plans to . ''
However , Andy Holt , the owner of League One side Accrington , said he was concerned about the current situation and that consideration should be given to pausing the football season .
`` I think we need to get on top of it , '' he told BBC Radio Four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be `` long-term financial ramifications '' for his club if fans contracted the disease .
`` I would be considering pausing the season until we know exactly where this is going and get a grip on it .
`` I am walking round our club at the weekend and there are 3,000 fans there - I am worried that inviting them altogether at our place is actually putting them in danger . ''
Three people have died in Britain from the virus so far and 278 people have tested positive as of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sporting events throughout the country to be played without fans for one month in a bid to curb Europe 's worst coronavirus outbreak , while the upcoming Italy v England Six Nations match in Rome has been postponed .
It was also announced on Sunday that fans will not be allowed to attend this month 's Bahrain Grand Prix because of the outbreak .
Within football 's Premier League there is a growing expectation that matches may have to be played behind closed doors within the next two weeks , depending on government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ logistics and feasibility as well as contracts and rights considerations .
The Premier League and EFL said pre-match handshakes between both teams and officials will not take place until further notice because of fears over the spread of coronavirus .
The measure came after the government asked the Premier League `` to step up its contingency planning '' .
Several clubs have instructed players not to sign autographs or take selfies with fans .
On Sunday , European football 's governing body Uefa told players and officials not to carry out pre-match handshakes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The International Olympic Committee ( IOC ) has stepped up its advice to sports federations on how to deal with the coronavirus .
In a letter seen by the BBC , the organisation 's sports director Kit McConnell has written to the bodies to offer `` further support '' .
Earlier this week , after an executive board meeting in Lausanne , IOC President Thomas Bach insisted he was confident this summer 's Olympics in Tokyo would go ahead as planned .
• Read more : Will coronavirus cancel the Tokyo 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the IOC is `` committed to the success of Tokyo 2020 '' .
And he says that `` all potential solutions should be explored '' if athletes are at risk of being prevented from competing in qualifying events .
`` Keeping athletes informed remains critical in addressing the ongoing challenges of Covid-19 , '' McConnell writes .
A host of Olympic qualifying events in a range of sports have been cancelled in recent weeks .
And some athletes from countries worst affected by the outbreak - such as China and Korea - have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel restrictions or quarantine rules .
`` If , despite all efforts , there is a significant risk to the full participation of teams or athletes in any Olympic qualification event ... please bring this to our attention as early as possible and we will work with you to find appropriate solutions , '' McConnell tells the federations .
`` In certain circumstances , there may be a need to review the current details of the qualification system .
`` Where there may be health regulations or entry restrictions which could impact on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be explored .
`` In some circumstances , we have seen permission being granted for exceptional entry for athletes from areas highly impacted by Covid-19 into countries hosting sporting events .
We encourage you to explore possible solutions with your NF ( national federation ) and LOC ( local organising committee ) . ''
And in a sign of what athletes can perhaps expect at the Tokyo Games if they go ahead as planned , the international federations are told to work with local health authorities `` to organise ongoing health screenings on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ athletes and entourage upon arrival , pre-competition and during competition , and carry out Covid-19 tests for those individuals arriving from highly affected areas '' .
McConnell explains that other good practises include providing hand sanitisers and masks throughout the event , reminding athletes and entourage to maintain high levels of personal hygiene , including advice on hand washing and minimising physical contact , with increased medical personnel on site .

Last updated on .From the section Sport
Some fans have been wearing face masks to football matches in England this week
Sporting events in Britain are unlikely to be affected by coronavirus in the immediate future, says Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden.
Governing bodies and broadcasters will meet with government officials later on Monday to discuss the staging of events behind closed doors if the outbreak worsens and mass gatherings are banned.
Dowden told BBC Radio 5 Live: "At this stage we're not in the territory of cancelling or postponing events."
He added fans should not be barred.
"I was at Twickenham [for England v Wales] with the Prime Minister [on Saturday]," he said. "There was a huge crowd of people there. There is no reason why people should not be going to those events. It is very premature to be talking about things like that."
Dowden did add that the advice was based on the current guidance issued by the medical experts.
He added: "That is why I asked the chief medical officer to brief the sporting bodies last week and that is why we will be driven by the advice of the chief medical officer as we continue.
"I do want to emphasise in relation to sporting events, any talk of cancellation is very premature indeed. At the moment there is no evidence to suggest we should be doing that and we don't have any plans to."
However, Andy Holt, the owner of League One side Accrington, said he was concerned about the current situation and that consideration should be given to pausing the football season.
"I think we need to get on top of it," he told BBC Radio Four's Today programme, and added there would be "long-term financial ramifications" for his club if fans contracted the disease.
"I would be considering pausing the season until we know exactly where this is going and get a grip on it.
"I am walking round our club at the weekend and there are 3,000 fans there - I am worried that inviting them altogether at our place is actually putting them in danger."
Three people have died in Britain from the virus so far and 278 people have tested positive as of Sunday.
Italy has ordered all major sporting events throughout the country to be played without fans for one month in a bid to curb Europe's worst coronavirus outbreak, while the upcoming Italy v England Six Nations match in Rome has been postponed.
It was also announced on Sunday that fans will not be allowed to attend this month's Bahrain Grand Prix because of the outbreak.
Within football's Premier League there is a growing expectation that matches may have to be played behind closed doors within the next two weeks, depending on government advice.
Attendees are due to discuss logistics and feasibility as well as contracts and rights considerations.
The Premier League and EFL said pre-match handshakes between both teams and officials will not take place until further notice because of fears over the spread of coronavirus.
The measure came after the government asked the Premier League "to step up its contingency planning".
Several clubs have instructed players not to sign autographs or take selfies with fans.
On Sunday, European football's governing body Uefa told players and officials not to carry out pre-match handshakes in all its competitions until further notice.
IOC steps up coronavirus advice
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has stepped up its advice to sports federations on how to deal with the coronavirus.
In a letter seen by the BBC, the organisation's sports director Kit McConnell has written to the bodies to offer "further support".
Earlier this week, after an executive board meeting in Lausanne, IOC President Thomas Bach insisted he was confident this summer's Olympics in Tokyo would go ahead as planned.
McConnell tells the federations that the IOC is "committed to the success of Tokyo 2020".
And he says that "all potential solutions should be explored" if athletes are at risk of being prevented from competing in qualifying events.
"Keeping athletes informed remains critical in addressing the ongoing challenges of Covid-19," McConnell writes.
A host of Olympic qualifying events in a range of sports have been cancelled in recent weeks.
And some athletes from countries worst affected by the outbreak - such as China and Korea - have been barred from participating overseas because of travel restrictions or quarantine rules.
"If, despite all efforts, there is a significant risk to the full participation of teams or athletes in any Olympic qualification event... please bring this to our attention as early as possible and we will work with you to find appropriate solutions," McConnell tells the federations.
"In certain circumstances, there may be a need to review the current details of the qualification system.
"Where there may be health regulations or entry restrictions which could impact on athlete participation, all potential solutions should be explored.
"In some circumstances, we have seen permission being granted for exceptional entry for athletes from areas highly impacted by Covid-19 into countries hosting sporting events. We encourage you to explore possible solutions with your NF (national federation) and LOC (local organising committee)."
And in a sign of what athletes can perhaps expect at the Tokyo Games if they go ahead as planned, the international federations are told to work with local health authorities "to organise ongoing health screenings on site, including a temperature check for athletes and entourage upon arrival, pre-competition and during competition, and carry out Covid-19 tests for those individuals arriving from highly affected areas".
McConnell explains that other good practises include providing hand sanitisers and masks throughout the event, reminding athletes and entourage to maintain high levels of personal hygiene, including advice on hand washing and minimising physical contact, with increased medical personnel on site.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Snowdonia: Climbers plucked off mountain in rescue

A group of climbers has been saved from 3,000ft ( 914m ) up in an 11-hour overnight rescue in rain and gales .
A helicopter and a 12-strong rescue team plucked the four walkers off a popular Snowdonia mountain in `` horrendous conditions '' on Saturday .
The group became stuck near a difficult rock climb on the slopes of Tryfan in the Ogwen Valley , near Bangor .
The climbers `` only had two small torches '' and voice contact was `` impossible '' due to the poor weather .
The Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue team located the party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 230ft ( 70m ) below the Eastern Traverse using a smartphone app .
The group had set off at about noon on Saturday hoping to climb Tryfan 's North Gully in Conwy county but changed their plans as the weather deteriorated .
The four crossed steep and dangerous ground before becoming stuck in the area of Grooved Arete .
`` The first casualty hauled up was not in a great condition so was immediately walked down by two team members while the rest of the group were being hauled up , '' said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` At this point there was a brief weather window when the coastguard helicopter was able to fly in and extract the group and team members . ''
A fifth member of the climbing party , who split up from the rest of his group , also called for help after he became `` lost in the dark '' .
He sparked a search after calling police but was found eventually found after he `` bumped into one of the search groups '' .


bbcuk--2020-03-09--DWP says it is 'shocked' by its own disability tribunal record

The Department for Work and Pensions has lost more employment tribunals for disability discrimination than any other employer in Britain since 2016 .
BBC Panorama found the DWP lost 17 of 134 claims of discrimination against its own disabled workers from 2016-19 .
And it paid out at least £950,000 in both tribunal payments and out-of-court settlements in that time .
The DWP said it was `` shocked '' by the data but was reviewing its processes to ensure all staff were treated fairly .
It is the government department that is responsible for supporting people with disabilities into employment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 11,000 identify as disabled .
Panorama analysed the publicly available data on the online Employment Tribunal decisions database up until December 2019 .
It reveals that the DWP had more cases in total and more cases which it lost than any other employer .
A comparison with the five employers who had the largest number of disability discrimination cases also showed that the DWP had more cases and more tribunal defeats in proportion to its total number of employees .
Karen Jackson , a leading disability discrimination lawyer , said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organisation that is designed to look after the more vulnerable members of our society is constantly falling foul of the Equality Act around disability .
`` To me , that can only suggest that there is something quite fundamentally , systemically wrong within the culture of the organisation . ''
Barrie Caulcutt , 57 , was awarded £26,000 after he took the DWP to an employment tribunal and a judge ruled he had been discriminated against because of his disability .
He worked in the finance department at the DWP for 30 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anxiety disorder that can trigger life-threatening asthma attacks .
But he was not able to manage his condition after being moved into a different job role .
`` I basically told them I could n't do the job I was doing , because of my disabilities .
I provided evidence from my GP , '' Mr Caulcutt said .
`` Their own occupational health service told them that unless they moved me from the environment I was working in , it would be of detriment to my health . ''
As part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told to attend a training session in a small room .
He said said he could not attend because he suffered from panic attacks but was told he would be disciplined if he failed to show up .
Mr Caulcutt said that during the course he had an `` overwhelming feeling '' that he had to leave the room .
`` I just collapsed to the floor .
I realised then that it was an asthma attack .
I 'm not a religious person , but I was praying .
I was praying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make me die .
Do n't make me die now , '' he said .
`` And the next thing I was in the back of an ambulance and they were rushing me to hospital . ''
Despite knowing Mr Caulcutt had been admitted to hospital , the next day his managers called him to ask where he was .
During the tribunal , the judge described his treatment as `` wholly inexcusable '' .
The DWP has lost 12.5 % percent of its employment tribunal cases for disability between 2016 and 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of disability discrimination claims were lost by employers .
One the biggest payouts made by the DWP for disability discrimination was awarded to former benefits worker , Charlotte .
Charlotte suffers from serious health problems , including depression , and was sacked by the DWP for taking too much sick leave .
She said her colleagues were often `` dismissive '' and `` quite nasty '' when discussing state benefits claimants and she felt they had the same attitude towards her .
`` I think that me being disabled , I kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off , people thought I was lying or faking it or I was n't really ill , and that was kind of a culture , '' she said .
At Charlotte 's employment tribunal , the judge found she had been unfairly dismissed and discriminated against by the DWP .
From 2016 to 2019 the DWP paid out at least £953,315 to DWP employees with disabilities as a result of losing employment tribunals , or because they settled out of court .
Freedom of Information requests reveal that between April 2017 and June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of court , at a cost of £713,000 .
The remaining £240,000 was awarded to people who had won their employment tribunals .
'More we can do' A spokesperson for the Department for Work and Pensions said : `` We are shocked that , when presented in this way , the data shows us in this light . ''
The department said it ensured staff had formal and informal routes to raise any concerns and that cases brought against it came from fewer than 2 % of staff with disabilities - although it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high '' .
`` Fair and respectful treatment is a right and we do not tolerate discrimination in any form , '' the spokesperson said .
The DWP said it had improved how it managed absence and resolved complaints , as well as introducting 1,600 mental health first aiders , adding : `` We know there is always more we can do .
`` We have instigated a review of our processes and actions following tribunal cases , to ensure all our employees are treated fairly and with respect . ''
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC One at 20:30 GMT on Monday .

As part of his new role, Mr Caulcutt was told to attend a training session in a small room. He said said he could not attend because he suffered from panic attacks but was told he would be disciplined if he failed to show up.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--RHI Inquiry: The report due this week will not be a 'comfortable read'

Before it happened , the scenario would have sounded improbable - even absurd .
How did a green energy scheme involving chicken sheds , biomass boilers and wood pellets become a huge financial scandal , which played a major role in bringing down a government ?
On Friday , a public inquiry will publish its report into the Renewable Heat Incentive ( RHI ) - otherwise known as the `` cash-for-ash '' scheme .
It was set up by Stormont in 2012 , and aimed to encourage businesses to switch from fossil fuels to more environmentally-friendly energy sources .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rest of the UK - with a critical difference .
A flaw in the design meant that in effect , the money paid out was greater than the cost of fuel .
Also , there was initially no cap on payments .
All that contributed to a massive projected overspend - at one stage estimated at £700m over 20 years .
Stormont 's Department of Enterprise , Trade and Investment was in charge of the scheme .
It was run by ministers from the Democratic Unionist Party .
The RHI controversy triggered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power-sharing coalition made up of the DUP and Sinn Féin - which collapsed in January 2017 .
The devolved government returned three years later - with the Alliance Party , the Ulster Unionist Party and the SDLP also joining the ministerial executive .
The public inquiry showed that the RHI debacle went further than party politics .
It raised questions about the entire system of government - including the role of the civil service , the use of external consultants in formulating policy and the relationship between ministers and their special advisors ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ witnesses in the inquiry was Janette O'Hagan - who runs an energy efficiency firm , Heatboss .
She raised concerns with Stormont about the tariff arrangements for RHI in the early years of the scheme - but they were not acted upon .
• RHI Inquiry : All you need to know Ms O'Hagan has spoken to the BBC Radio Four programme `` The Cash-for-Ash Scandal '' in her first interview since she gave evidence to the inquiry .
`` I would never have dreamed , when I was sending off those emails @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to all this , '' she said .
She told me that although `` it has n't been an easy time '' , her course of action was the right thing to do .
`` I 'm glad we 're not wasting energy needlessly any more .
`` I 'd like to see better protections for citizens like me who raised legitimate concerns - to make sure they 're not treated as political pawns . ''
She hopes the inquiry report will draw a line under the saga .
`` Now it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - we really need to focus on the environment , getting a good energy policy in place .
It 's a great opportunity to do so , '' she added .
Before the Stormont Assembly closed its doors for more than 1,000 days , it passed measures to cut the bill for RHI .
But it was subsequent changes in 2017 and 2019 by civil servants that really had an impact .
The retrospective cost controls mean that the scheme is currently underspending , rather than running hugely over budget .
But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bill .
Many RHI claimants say this put them on a crumbling financial cliff-edge .
Such is the concern they have about ruined reputations , it is rare for people who entered into the project to speak publicly .
We interviewed a chicken farmer who wanted to stay anonymous because , as he put it , RHI is still thought of as a `` dirty scheme '' taken up by people who were `` on the make '' .
He pointed out that , like numerous others , he signed up for RHI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help the environment - and built it into his business plan for two decades .
He now has a gap which is impossible to plug - and that has caused immense worry .
`` I have n't had a good night 's sleep in three years , '' he said .
He said he hoped the inquiry report would simply `` show the truth '' .
`` The Department made serious errors when the scheme was set up , '' he said .
`` The participants should n't be held responsible for it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scapegoats . ''
The inquiry held public hearings for more than a year and gathered more than a million documents in its search for evidence .
Its findings will touch a range of areas - politics , officialdom and business for a start .
Sir Patrick Coghlin 's report will be a highly significant moment for Northern Ireland - potentially the most comprehensive analysis yet of how devolution works .
No-one involved is expecting it to be a comfortable read .
• You can listen to The Cash-For-Ash Scandal , produced by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 20:00 GMT on Monday 9 March , 11:00 GMT on Tuesday 10 March , and afterwards on BBC Sounds .

He pointed out that, like numerous others, he signed up for RHI in good faith - believing it would help the environment - and built it into his business plan for two decades.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Coronavirus: Two more cases in Wales bring total to six

Health officials have confirmed a further two cases of coronavirus in Wales .
It takes the number of cases in Wales to six .
Public Health Wales ( PHW ) said the latest cases are not linked , and the individuals had travelled from different parts of Italy back to Wales .
One patient is from the Neath Port Talbot area , the other is from the Newport area .
The first patient had recently returned from southern Italy , while the other had been in northern Italy where up 16 million now face travel restrictions and quarantine .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the individuals and to reduce the risk of transmission to others are being taken , '' said Dr Frank Atherton , the Chief Medical Officer for Wales .
The two new cases follow confirmation on Sunday that another two people had contracted the virus after returning from northern Italy to Pembrokeshire .
Wales ' first cases involved one person from Swansea and one from Cardiff , who had also returned from northern Italy .
PHW said the latest patients were being treated in `` clinically appropriate settings '' .
The prime minister is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later to decide whether to bring in measures to delay the spread of coronavirus in the UK .
These could include banning of big events , closing schools and encouraging home working .
It comes after a man in his 60s became the UK 's third death linked to the Covid-19 virus .
The latest cases in Wales take the UK total to 280 .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the outbreak Health officials said 634 people in Wales have now been tested for coronavirus , as of Friday .
`` The public can be assured that Wales and the whole of the UK is prepared for these types of incidents , '' said the chief medical officer .
`` 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 of the public . ''
The Welsh Government has said it is releasing stockpiled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales .
Safety packs , which were prepared over the weekend , will be sent to the 640 surgeries in Wales this week .
Among other measures is a symptom checker for suspected coronavirus , which has been launched online by the Welsh NHS .
The Welsh Ambulance Service said the online service should be the `` first port of call '' as the NHS 111 telephone lines were `` very busy '' .
And a car park for an old medical clinic is doubling up as Wales ' first drive-through coronavirus testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reacting to the two new cases in Pembrokeshire over the weekend , the council 's leader urged the public to follow PHW advice , especially on handwashing .
`` I can reassure you that our services will continue as usual , and all our employees can continue to attend to their work , appointments , schools and services as they normally would , '' said David Simpson .

Along with First Minister Mark Drakeford, he was involved with other ministers from across the UK at Monday's Cobra meeting and reiterated that the current scientific advice was for no schools to close and not to end mass gatherings at events.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Coronavirus: UK maps and charts

Coronavirus: UK maps and charts

More than 270 cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in the UK and the respiratory infection is now highly likely to spread in `` a significant way '' , health officials have said .
More than 23,000 people in the UK have been tested for the virus so far , with 273 found to be positive .
Three people have died in the UK after contracting the virus .
Here are some maps , charts and graphics that will help you understand the situation in the UK and how the authorities are dealing with it .
1 .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new coronavirus , which 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 , with the highest number so far seen in London .
But numbers are much lower than other European countries , such as Italy , for example , where there have been more than 3,800 cases .
While there were a number of people testing positive throughout February , figures began to increase significantly at the beginning of March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's chief medical adviser , has said it is `` highly likely '' there is now some `` community transmission '' and measures are to be introduced to slow the virus 's advance and could involve `` changes to society '' .
He said that of those confirmed to have the virus in the UK by 6 March , 18 had recovered and about 45 had been self-isolating at home .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• PROTECTION : Where are we with a vaccine ?
• GETTING READY @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The UK 's first fatality linked to the virus , announced on Thursday , was a woman in her 70s with underlying health conditions .
The second person to die in the UK after contracting the virus was an 83-year-old man with underlying health problems .
Globally , authorities have confirmed nearly 100,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 3,000 deaths .
The vast majority of cases - more than 100,000 - are in China , where the virus originated in December .
2 .
We are in the first phase of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ published its action plan for dealing with the virus , which involves three phases - contain ; delay ; mitigate - alongside ongoing research .
The emphasis is currently on the contain and research phases , officials say , but planning for the delay and mitigate stages is already in train .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work from home .
However , 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 .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In Scotland , you should call your GP or NHS 24 on 111 out of hours .
In 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 .
Some of the UK 's cases can be traced to Europe Numbers across Europe have been increasing over the last few days , as well as in the UK .
Most of the UK 's cases so far 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returning from the quarantined towns in the northern regions of Lombardy and Veneto , are being told to self-isolate even if they do not 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--2020-03-09--What to expect during the Alex Salmond trial

Alex Salmond , the former first minister of Scotland , is to stand trial on a string of sexual offences charges - all of which he denies .
Here is a guide to what to expect during the trial .
What is Mr Salmond accused of ?
The former SNP leader is alleged to have carried out a series of sexual assaults against 10 women while he was serving as Scotland 's first minister .
The 14 charges include one attempted rape , one assault with intent to rape , 10 sexual assaults and two indecent assaults .
The offences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locations in Scotland between June 2008 and November 2014 , including at the first minister 's official Bute House residence in Edinburgh , a nightclub and a restaurant .
Mr Salmond has pled not guilty to all of the charges , and has vowed to defend himself vigorously during the trial .
What will happen during the trial ?
The trial is being held at the High Court in Edinburgh before Lady Dorrian , who is the Lord Justice Clerk - Scotland 's second most senior judge .
A jury of 15 members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the trial begins .
They will listen to the evidence and decide if the case against Mr Salmond - who is known as the accused - has been proven `` beyond reasonable doubt '' .
Unlike in some countries , there is no vetting process for potential jurors in Scots law so they can not be rejected because of their political views , for example .
There is also no need for the jury to be balanced between men and women .
There are no opening statements from lawyers and the trial will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the women who Mr Salmond is alleged to have sexually assaulted .
They are known as the complainers .
The witnesses will be questioned by prosecutor Alex Prentice QC and Mr Salmond 's lawyer , Gordon Jackson QC - a former Scottish Labour MSP .
Once the prosecution case has ended , Mr Salmond and his legal team can decide whether or not to call any witnesses , which could potentially include Mr Salmond himself .
However , the accused is not obliged to offer any evidence in their own defence .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prove that the accused is guilty rather than for the accused to prove they are innocent .
Defence lawyers can also argue at the end of the prosecution case that there is no case to answer , meaning that the evidence has not been strong enough to justify the accused being convicted by a jury .
If the judge agrees , the accused is acquitted before the defence case begins .
What verdicts can the jury reach ?
Once the trial has finished , the jury will retire before reaching one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilty or not proven .
This decision does not need to be unanimous , with only eight of the 15 jurors needing to be in agreement .
The not proven verdict is an unusual and highly controversial feature of the Scottish legal system which in practice is exactly the same as a verdict of not guilty .
The accused is acquitted and is innocent in the eyes of the law .
• You can read more about the not proven verdict here If Mr Salmond is found guilty of any of the charges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the judge to decide what sentence should be imposed .
How long will the trial last ?
The trial is due to start on 9 March and has been scheduled to last for about four weeks - which would take it up to the first week in April .
However , this is only an estimate and the trial could last for a longer or shorter period of time .
Why are the alleged victims not being named ?
The media - including online blogs and social media - are not allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that could identify alleged victims of sexual offences , unless that person waives their right to anonymity .
This remains the case even if the accused is ultimately cleared .
As with all criminal cases , the media are also restricted by contempt of court laws and anyone who publishes or broadcasts anything that could potentially prejudice the trial - for example speculation about the guilt or innocence of the accused - can be prosecuted and imprisoned .
Again , these contempt laws also apply to blogs and social media platforms such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attend the trial ?
Yes , but as with all court cases it will be on a first come , first served basis .
The courtroom holds 90 people but the majority of these spaces are expected to be taken up by the media .
There may be room for about 30 members of the public but the exact number of spaces could fluctuate from day to day .
Members of the public are told to leave the courtroom before the complainers give evidence in sexual offences cases .
However , reporters are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the evidence is being heard .

Yes, but as with all court cases it will be on a first come, first served basis. The courtroom holds 90 people but the majority of these spaces are taken up by the media. There may be room for about 30 members of the public but the exact number of spaces could fluctuate from day to day.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Strictly to stately: Chancellor Rishi Sunak can learn from late replacements

Four weeks ago , Rishi Sunak had no idea he would be delivering the Budget on 11 March .
Then Sajid Javid resigned , Mr Sunak was promoted to chancellor and the stage was set .
In between making cups of tea , he has been given little time to prepare for the biggest day in a chancellor 's calendar .
He is not the first person to be thrown into the spotlight at the last minute .
So from which replacements , stand-ins and substitutes can he take inspiration or warning ?
Kelvin Fletcher was at home when his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted as a late replacement on Strictly Come Dancing .
He was approached after Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing , part of the planned line-up , had been injured in training .
Contracts were sent within an hour , he was soon on the phone to producers , and the next day he had a medical .
`` I got to rehearse for , I think , a week or so .
And then it was the opening night , '' the ex-Emmerdale actor said .
`` I was n't expecting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an option .
It could n't have been any more of a curveball than it was . ''
Of course , the 36-year-old went on to win and lift the glitterball trophy with partner Oti Mabuse in front of 11 million viewers .
There are late replacements and there are really late replacements .
Steph Parry was sitting in the dressing room of a London theatre , ready for a different show , when she received a call from the general manager of Mamma Mia !
being staged down the road .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced off stage with a calf injury during the opening scene of the show .
Within just 18 minutes of the show being halted , she was on the stage playing Donna Sheridan , the role Meryl Streep played in the Mamma Mia !
film .
`` I did n't have time to worry , I just needed a wee !
I remember sitting on the loo thinking about the lines for the next scene , '' she said , having previously been in the show .
`` After that , I had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had to trust that it was somewhere in the back of my mind .
It was worse , the more I thought about [ it ] !
`` The choreography was the biggest wing in the whole of my life - I blagged it ! ''
Guy Goma was at the BBC for a job interview .
He was not there to be interviewed live on television .
He was , however , interviewed live on television , with legendary results .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is a football fan .
One of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Le Tissier .
In November 1996 , legendary Saints player Le Tissier was injured and substituted with one of the club 's most infamous players - Ali Dia .
• Your essential guide to the Budget • What we already know about our changing finances Incredibly , amateur Dia had been signed on a one-month contract , apparently after he was recommended to manager Graeme Souness by a man claiming to be the then-world player of the year , George Weah .
Even more incredibly , Souness brought him on in the Premiership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leeds .
He lasted 53 minutes before being replaced himself .
He was never seen in a Southampton shirt again .
The manager later said he knew he was a dud , but his squad was depleted by injury .
Le Tissier said : `` He ran around the pitch like Bambi on ice . ''
Hours , not weeks , to prepare for a Budget Mr Sunak has had four weeks to get ready for the Budget after his predecessor resigned .
Kate Forbes had less than a day .
At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first woman to deliver a Scottish budget , having to step in after Derek Mackay resigned as finance secretary .
`` I realised I did n't necessarily have a choice , '' she said .
`` And in the next seven hours , I had to wrap my head around every line of the budget and deliver the statement and answer questions .
`` Who would n't be worried about delivering a budget with a few hours ' notice ?
It was a case of tunnel vision , focus , and get ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at the time a junior minister , was then required to lead talks with opposition parties to ensure the budget was approved .
Some of those politicians praised Ms Forbes for stepping in to deliver the £34bn budget , but were critical of some of the content .
Shy and nervous , with a bad stutter , George VI never expected to be King .
The abdication of his brother Edward VIII to marry the American divorcee Wallis Simpson put him , somewhat reluctantly , on the throne .
The King and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , won enduring popularity with the British people when they stayed at Buckingham Palace throughout World War Two , despite the bombing of London .
And the King set a lasting example to any public speaker by not letting his speech impediment prevent him giving speeches across the empire - not least to rally the nation at the outbreak of war .
This has been celebrated in the successful British film , The King 's Speech .

He told her that the lead had been forced off stage with a calf injury during the opening scene of the show. Within just 18 minutes of the show being halted, she was on the stage playing Donna Sheridan, the role Meryl Streep played in the Mamma Mia! film.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--County lines: Hampshire schools pay private firms for sniffer dogs

Teachers have taken action against the potential risk to children being recruited by county lines drug gangs in Hampshire .
@ @ @ @ @ are moving their trade to the south , prompting police to warn that drug runners @ @ @ @ @ to sell their product .
Now staff in Swanmore College , Wildern School , Wyvern @ @ @ @ @ , Toynbee School and Thornden School have teamed up to pay privately for a visit @ @ @ @ @ 're also focusing on county lines to warn of the dangers of drug use and @ @ @ @ @ try to exploit students .

Teachers have taken action against the potential risk to children being recruited by county lines drug gangs in Hampshire.
It comes after reports gangs are moving their trade to the south, prompting police to warn that drug runners target young or vulnerable people to sell their product.
Now staff in Swanmore College, Wildern School, Wyvern College, The Hamble School, Toynbee School and Thornden School have teamed up to pay privately for a visit from sniffer dogs.
They're also focusing on county lines to warn of the dangers of drug use and explain how gang leaders might try to exploit students.
Video journalist: Emily Ford


bbcuk--2020-03-09--The Papers: Italy in virus 'chaos' and quarantine 'farce'

`` Quarantine farce as Italian planes fly in '' is the headline on the front of the Daily Telegraph .
The paper reports that although 16 million people were put into lockdown , `` dozens '' of flights were allowed to arrive in the UK and passengers were not put into quarantine .
It adds that ministers are reportedly coming under pressure to follow France and Germany and cancel mass gatherings of more than 1,000 people .
But a government source is quoted as saying that British ministers are reluctant to act - with the view that EU nations are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than scientific ones .
The government 's response to the Italian lockdown is criticised in the Guardian .
The paper reports that `` hours after '' the plan was put in place , the Foreign Office was still advising that it was safe to travel to anywhere apart from the initial 11 towns that were quarantined .
The guidance was updated to urge against all but essential travel , but holidaymakers were reportedly left confused - with flights to affected areas still being advertised .
Panic buying in the wake of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of front pages .
`` Do n't be so shelf-ish '' is the headline in the Metro .
The accompanying story includes a warning from Boris Johnson that people do not need to panic buy .
The paper says there have been `` scuffles '' at checkouts over products including toilet roll .
The Daily Express reports that shelves across the country have been `` stripped bare '' of essentials including anti-bacterial wipes and long-life milk .
A number of papers use editorial comment columns to call for calm .
The Sun , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow the example set by the Queen - who the paper says is `` clearly not cowed by coronavirus '' .
It also suggests that UK follows the lead of countries who have dealt with the virus well by simply pulling together .
Get news from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning Most festivals and venues say it is `` business as usual '' , despite ongoing concern about a widespread outbreak according to the Guardian .
The paper has spoken to organisers of Glastonbury - who have said they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event in sixteen weeks time .
Bookings at the Barbican in London are reportedly also `` holding up '' .
In contrast , a report in the Daily Mail suggests that the Italian city of Florence has `` morphed into a ghost town '' .
Its reporter Matthew Bell was met by an `` eerie silence '' on a visit to the famous Uffizi gallery and spoke to a taxi driver who was now waiting two hours between jobs .
There is an upbeat assessment following the decision to close schools until the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a letter to Corriere della Sera .
Cristina Bottino , a teacher , writes that teachers have `` put their trust in technology '' and been able to run virtual classes and record video lessons .
She goes on to say that seven or eight years ago and without current technology `` closed schools would have meant silent schools '' .
She concludes by saying although many pupils will not complete the curriculum , they will have learned vital lessons in terms of humanity and cooperation .
Away from coverage of the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Duke and Duchess of Sussex 's final events as working royals .
`` Harry and Meg 's final salute '' , is the Daily Mirror 's take , as it claims that the military is to be `` central '' to their new charitable organisation .
The couple will reportedly attempt to deal with issues such as medical care and homelessness for veterans and injured personnel .
`` The final bow , '' is the headline on the front of the i .
In a column by Stefano Hatfield , he says Meghan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ genuine star power '' and is able to reach different audiences .
Elsewhere , the Financial Times reports that Britain 's biggest mental health provider , the Priory Group , is to be sold for almost £1bn .
Its portfolio includes a clinic in south-west London , which is the location of choice for the `` rich and famous '' to treat their drugs , alcohol and sex addictions .
The Daily Mail has obtained figures which reveal a man with 66 points on his driving licence is still allowed out on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of a number of drivers to be spared a ban by magistrates - under a loophole which allows for courts to consider whether revoking a licence would cause `` exceptional hardship '' .
The road safety charity Brake has called for a review of the system .
The Magistrates Association has said the process for determining such circumstances is `` robust '' .
`` Poopascooped it '' is the Daily Star 's take on events at Crufts on Sunday night .
The paper says crowds at the NEC in Birmingham were left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's best in show was caught short on her victory lap .

"Harry and Meg's final salute", is the Daily Mirror's take, as it claims that the military is to be "central" to their new charitable organisation. The couple will reportedly attempt to deal with issues such as medical care and homelessness for veterans and injured personnel.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Coronavirus ship: Going 'stir crazy' on Grand Princess cruise

A grandmother has said she is going `` stir crazy '' on board a coronavirus-hit cruise ship .
Margaret Bartlett , 77 , is one of 140 Britons on the Grand Princess which has been barred from docking in California after 21 people tested positive .
The ship is due to arrive in Oakland on Monday , but Mrs Bartlett , from Burnley , said it is `` terrible '' on board where they have `` rotten food '' .
A passenger who was staying 10 cabins away from Mrs Bartlett has died .
The Foreign Office said it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repatriation flight for Britons stuck on the ship , which is carrying 3,500 passengers and crew .
Mrs Bartlett has been confined to her cabin which has no balcony and said she is `` dreading '' being stuck on board as some Americans are taken off .
• Couple on coronavirus-hit ship 'want to get home' • Coronavirus : What are the symptoms ?
She said : `` The food is rotten and terrible and we have to fight for it .
It is not good enough . ''
`` We are going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is a bit depressing when we saw land and it was sunny and we could n't get out .
`` We are hoping something will get done .
It is terrible . ''
Her daughter Lyndsey Vickers told the BBC she was `` very worried '' about her mother .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak She said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is about to dock as I do n't think she is going to get off .
`` My greatest fear is that they will be kept on that ship for two weeks . ''
Cruise ships are feared to be fertile breeding grounds for coronavirus , with more than 700 cases and six linked deaths on the Diamond Princess which held off Japan last month .

Mrs Bartlett has been confined to her cabin, which has no balcony, and said she was "dreading" being stuck on board as some Americans are taken off.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Coronavirus: New workplace guidance aims to delay outbreak

New guidance has been issued aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus in Scotland 's workplaces .
The latest advice from Health Protection Scotland urges routine cleaning of phones and keypads .
It also says food should not be left open for people to share .
The central piece of advice is still to wash hands thoroughly and regularly .
Publication of the guidelines comes after the number of confirmed cases in Scotland rose to 18 on Sunday .
The University of the West of Scotland has confirmed one person from its Lanarkshire campus in Hamilton has tested positive .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is `` giving no cause for concern '' , the university said .
In a joint statement , the university and NHS Lanarkshire said the person had `` limited contact '' with a small group of individuals at the university who have all been contacted , are well and have no symptoms .
All University of West of Scotland campuses remain open and students and staff have been asked to attend as normal .
Despite the increase of just two cases in Scotland between Saturday and Sunday , numbers in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since the first case emerged .
On Sunday , the number of confirmed cases in the UK rose to 278 , up from 209 in the previous update .
Prime minister Boris Johnson will chair a meeting of the Cobra emergency committee on Monday , which will consider whether it is necessary to move from containment to the delay stage in the UK 's response to the virus .
That could involve new `` social distancing '' measures such as banning big events , closing schools or encouraging home working .
What is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's check list for the workplace includes : • routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched objects and surfaces such as telephones , keyboards , door handles , desks and tables • basic hand washing highlighted as the most effective way of preventing the spread of infection .
Hand hygiene promoted by ensuring staff , contractors , service users and visitors have access to hand washing facilities and alcohol-based hand rub , where available • crockery and cutlery in shared kitchen areas should be cleaned with warm water and detergent and dried thoroughly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sandwiches should not be left open for communal sharing unless individually wrapped • EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop said : `` This publication has been circulated following general guidance on basic preventative measures against coronavirus and specific guidance for educational settings .
`` It contains clear , practical guidance that will ensure workplace staff have the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all help prevent it from spreading .
`` We are well-prepared for an outbreak in Scotland , but the public has a vital role to play in helping us contain any positive cases by keeping themselves informed , and following basic hygiene precautions .
`` That includes hand-washing , not touching their faces unless their hands are clean , and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing then putting the tissue in the bin . ''
Of 1,957 coronavirus tests carried out in Scotland , 1,939 have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she expects the number of positive tests to rise `` perhaps rapidly in the days to come '' .
`` It is now likely that we are facing a significant outbreak of coronavirus across the UK , '' she said .
However , the `` vast majority '' of infected people would experience only very mild symptoms and would not need hospital treatment , she added .

In a joint statement, the university and NHS Lanarkshire said the person had "limited contact" with a small group of individuals at the university who have all been contacted, are well and have no symptoms.


bbcuk--2020-03-09--Coronoavirus: Welsh GPs and NHS staff to get protective gear

Face masks , gloves and aprons are being sent out to GP surgeries in Wales to protect those treating people suspected of having coronavirus .
Stockpiled protective equipment will also be released for front-line NHS and social services staff , Wales ' Health Minister Vaughan Gething said on Monday .
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Wales rose to six on Monday .
Mr Gething said the packs were part of robust `` infection-control measures '' .
The safety packs , which were prepared over the weekend , will be sent to the 640 surgeries in Wales this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this 60s became the third person in the UK to die after testing positive for coronavirus .
• NHS will get 'whatever it needs ' for coronavirus • Two more coronavirus cases confirmed in Wales • Man in his 60s becomes third UK coronavirus death Mr Gething said he wanted to reassure people the Welsh Government was working closely with the NHS and social services to implement its `` planned response '' to the virus .
`` It is important that front-line medical and social care staff have the equipment they need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people with suspected coronavirus , '' he added .
`` The face masks , gloves and aprons are part of a stockpile that we have in place as part of our contingency planning , should they be needed to support our NHS and social services . ''
Wales ' chief medical officer confirmed at the weekend that two new cases in Wales were members of the same Pembrokeshire household who had been to northern Italy .
Both have been in self-isolation since their return and were being managed in a `` clinically appropriate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases - one person from Swansea and one from Cardiff - had also returned from northern Italy .
As of Friday , 634 people in Wales had been tested for the virus , according to Public Health Wales ( PHW ) .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Preparations to halt the spread of the virus continued at the weekend , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduced by the UK government would also apply in Wales .
`` The public can be assured that Wales and the whole of the UK is prepared for these types of incidents , '' said Dr Giri Shankar , from PHW .
Among the measures is a symptom checker for suspected coronavirus , which has been launched online by the Welsh NHS .
The Welsh Ambulance Service said the online service should be the `` first port of call '' as the NHS 111 telephone lines were `` very busy '' .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clinic is doubling up as Wales ' first drive-through coronavirus testing centre at Rossett , near Wrexham .
Meanwhile , Italy has placed millions of people under quarantine as it battles to contain the spread of the virus , with the number of deaths shooting up on Sunday .

"The face masks, gloves and aprons are part of a stockpile that we have in place as part of our contingency planning, should they be needed to support our NHS and social services."