bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Thousands volunteer to help NHS with vulnerable

Some 250,000 people have signed up in a single day to volunteer with the NHS after a recruitment drive to help the vulnerable amid the coronavirus crisis .
The helpers are needed for delivering food and medicines , driving patients to appointments and phoning the isolated .
The scheme is one of a number aimed at relieving pressure on the NHS .
About 11,000 former medics have also agreed to return to the health service and more than 24,000 final year student nurses and medics will join them .
Stephen Powis , NHS England medical director , said there had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was `` bowled over '' by the medics returning to the front line and the response from volunteers .
This comes as it was confirmed Prince Charles , the 71-year-old heir to the throne , tested positive for coronavirus after displaying mild symptoms .
He is now self-isolating at home in Scotland with the Duchess of Cornwall , who tested negative .
A Clarence House spokesman said it was not possible to know who he had caught it from due to a `` high number of engagements '' in recent weeks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak The government scheme to recruit 250,000 helpers - who must be over 18 and in good health - went live on Tuesday .
By Wednesday morning , they had exceeded their target , after many thousands signed up to Good Sam , the group coordinating the response .
The help is being targeted at the 1.5 million people with underlying health conditions who have been asked to shield themselves from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
On Tuesday , it was also announced that the NHS will treat coronavirus patients in a makeshift field hospital in the ExCeL Centre in east London .
This comes as the government faces growing pressure to stop non-essential construction work to help tackle the spread of coronavirus in the UK .
On Tuesday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said those who can not do their jobs from home should go to work to `` keep the country running '' and construction work could continue so long as people were 2m ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public health should be prioritised over the economy .
Andy Burnham , Labour Mayor of Greater Manchester , said : `` When you 're in the middle of a global pandemic , health reasons alone really should be guiding all decision-making . ''
Boris Johnson , who faces Prime Minister 's Questions later , has so far resisted pressure from politicians , unions and workers themselves to halt construction work .
In Scotland , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said building sites should close , unless it involves an essential building such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are to be asked to vote on shutting down the House of Commons for almost four weeks .
On Tuesday , the number of coronavirus deaths in the UK rose to 422 , according to the latest Department of Health figures , with more than 8,000 confirmed cases of the virus .
Some builders and construction workers have said they feel `` angry and unprotected '' going to work , while others are under pressure from employers to go in .
The confusion over who should and should not be travelling for work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson on Monday curtailed many freedoms on life in the UK .
The prime minister said people should only leave their home to shop for basic goods , to fulfil medical or care needs , to exercise , and to travel to and from work - but only where `` absolutely necessary '' .
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has repeated his call for the government to ban non-safety construction work to help to reduce demand for public transport in London , saying many of those travelling at the busiest times were construction workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hour data suggested Tube travel was down by a third on Tuesday , when pictures appeared on social media of passengers packed into carriages .
The government responded saying London Underground should be running in full so people were able to space out .
However , Mr Khan said almost a third of London transport workers , including train drivers and crucial control centre staff , were off sick or self-isolating so a full service was not possible .
Since Tuesday evening , hundreds of British Transport Police have been deployed onto the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those making essential journeys for work should be using tubes and trains .
As a growing number of people become infected day by day , and people are told to stay at home , public services are coming under increasing strain .
London Ambulance Service said it was receiving 8,000 calls a day - a `` very busy '' day before the coronavirus pandemic would have seen 5,000 calls .
It is appealing for former 999 call handlers to volunteer to help .
Meanwhile , calls to the 111 service have increased by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department for Work and Pensions processed almost half a million benefit claims over nine days , Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey said .
• What is banned and what is n't ?
Meanwhile , the government is considering the early release of some prisoners in England and Wales to relieve pressure caused by the outbreak , in particular 50 pregnant prisoners .
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland said the virus posed an `` acute '' risk in prisons , many of which were overcrowded and faced staff shortages as officers self-isolated .
Elsewhere @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide financial support for self-employed workers who face a loss of income if forced to stop working due to sickness or quarantine .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has promised help for the self-employed in `` the coming days '' but said coming up with a plan had proved `` incredibly complicated '' .
Mr Jenrick told BBC Breakfast : `` We are very alive to this issue , the chancellor is reviewing what more we can do to support these individuals through the crisis - and he 's going to make a further statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to put themselves in dangerous situations while awaiting the announcement on assistance for the self-employed .
• UK vehicle owners will be granted a six-month exemption from MoT testing • Three immigration removal centres in the UK are housing people with symptoms of the virus • People in India have begun panic-buying as the entire population of 1.3bn enters `` total lockdown '' • New York 's governor says the virus is racing like a `` bullet train '' through the state • Global cases of the virus have exceeded 400,000 with @ @ @


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Inmates could be freed to ease virus pressure on jails

The government is considering releasing some offenders from prisons in England and Wales to ease pressures caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland said the virus poses an `` acute '' risk in prisons , many of which are overcrowded .
Some 3,500 prison staff - about 10 % of the workforce - were off work on Tuesday because they were ill or self-isolating , a committee of MPs was told .
Mr Buckland said releasing some inmates could help to `` alleviate '' pressures .
The justice secretary told the Commons justice committee he was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on temporary licence - where prisoners are let out for short periods , after a risk assessment .
Mr Buckland said he was looking `` very carefully '' at whether or not 50 pregnant prisoners could be released .
He also indicated some of the 9,000 inmates who are on remand , awaiting trial , could be transferred to bail hostels , if it was safe to do so .
• How dangerous is life inside our prisons ?
Mr Buckland said the prison service must `` balance the protection of life with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but releasing prisoners early could help to `` alleviate some of the pressures '' the virus was having on the system .
However , he pointed out that releasing more prisoners would be a `` challenge '' for probation staff .
Amnesty International UK 's head of policy and government affairs , Allan Hogarth , said elderly prisoners and those with underlying medical conditions should `` immediately '' be considered for release `` if they do not pose a threat to themselves or society '' .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How to protect your mental health Mr Buckland 's appearance before the committee came as all visits to prisons were cancelled , as part of measures to curb the spread of the virus .
Outside visitors , group activities and education classes have all been banned and inmates have been confined to their cells for 23 hours a day .
The Ministry of Justice ( MoJ ) said 55 prisons across England and Wales would be given 900 phones to allow prisoners to stay in touch with family members during the ban .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and would only be handed out to risk-assessed prisoners on a temporary basis , the MoJ said .
The justice committee also heard from Jo Farrar , chief executive of the Prison and Probation Service , who said 13 inmates had tested positive for coronavirus .
The confirmed cases were in nine prisons although more jails are suspected to have had cases .
According to the latest Department of Health figures , there are now more than 8,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK - although the actual number cases is likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those patients have died .
Mr Buckland said more tests for the virus were needed in prisons , and more personal protective equipment ( PPE ) was needed for staff .
About 50,000 protective masks have been delivered for staff to use and a ban on bringing hand sanitiser into prisons has been lifted .

According to the latest Department of Health figures, there are now more than 8,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK - although the actual number cases is likely to be far higher. Some 422 of those patients have died.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Doctor 'kicked out' by Headington landlady

A hospital doctor said he was told to leave his rented room because his landlady was afraid he would bring the coronavirus into her home .
Joseph Alsousou is working between Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre and the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford .
He had been lodging at a house in Headington on weekdays since August .
After he was asked to leave the accommodation , the surgeon said he drove three hours back to his family home in Merseyside `` almost in tears '' .
Dr Alsousou said the landlady originally gave him 28-days ' notice via email last weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus into the home , according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service .
On the Monday , the 43-year-old tried to reassure her the virus was very low risk to her but when he returned to his room the following evening , she allegedly said she wanted him to leave as soon as he possibly could .
The surgeon added : `` At that point , I could not see myself staying in the house .
`` I went home because I had nowhere else to stay .
I drove all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in tears . ''
Other members of staff had to help cover some of Mr Alsousou 's shifts while he searched for a new place to stay .
He has since found lodgings in Horspath .
`` The lady I am now renting from said she would rather have a doctor in the house in this situation , '' he said .
A spokesperson for Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said : `` NHS England and NHS Improvement have established a process for hard-working NHS staff to secure accommodation at hotels within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been affected by COVID-19 in some way . ''
• EASY STEPS : What should I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore

On Monday, the 43-year-old tried to reassure her the virus was very low risk to her but when he returned to his room the following evening, she allegedly said she wanted him to leave as soon as he possibly could.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: The newly jobless struggle to claim benefits

Significant problems are being reported after an `` incredible '' number of benefit claims in recent days due to the economic fall-out of the coronavirus .
At one point on Tuesday more than 100,000 people were trying to verify online applications and others spent hours trying to phone welfare staff .
Many gave up after long phone queues and then being rejected by the system .
The Department for Work and Pensions said it was redeploying existing staff and hiring others to cope with demand .
• Coronavirus : Workers describe being hit by job losses and uncertainty • Coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of workers ' wages Research by the BBC suggests that pressure on the benefits system started to build in the middle of last week , shortly after the government introduced the first set of restrictions and then surged markedly on Tuesday after the prime minister ordered most businesses to close on Monday night .
New claimants , many of them self-employed and facing a dramatic fall in income , took to social media to highlight the problems .
One user posted a screenshot on Twitter of their application which said that `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ users , '' there were 105,563 people ahead of them in an online queue to verify their identity , a basic requirement of applying for any benefit .
Jonathan Hume estimates he has called the Universal Credit hotline somewhere between `` 80 and 100 times '' since Friday .
His contract as a research associate at the University of Manchester came to an end earlier this month and the 32-year-old needs to contact a benefits official to process his claim .
`` I just ca n't get through at all , '' Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the time , the line just drops instantly .
`` On another few times when I 've got through , I 've been on hold for two hours and then my network has just cut me off .
`` It 's infuriating and stressful as , until it 's sorted , I have no income . ''
Tens of thousands of people have become eligible to apply for Universal Credit in recent days due to the economic consequences of Covid-19 .
In a statement on Monday night , the Department for Work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ applicants to use their online system after days of people using social media to complain about being unable to get through to their telephone support lines .
One user reported spending more than 15 hours in total over three days waiting to speak to a benefits official , while several others posted screenshots of phone calls lasting more than two hours .
Some claimants struggled for hours to even connect to the system .
The government announced on Monday that all job centres would be closed for everyone but `` the most vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' by other means - urging claimants to use online and telephone support .
In a statement , the DWP said it was taking `` unprecedented '' action to ensure people received the support they needed .
`` Around 10,000 existing staff will be moved to process new claims , with 1,000 already in place .
`` In addition , the department is expecting to recruit 1,500 extra people to aid the effort , '' the statement continued .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

Research by the BBC suggests that pressure on the benefits system started to build in the middle of last week, shortly after the government introduced the first set of restrictions and then surged markedly on Tuesday after the prime minister ordered most businesses to close on Monday night.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: 'Avoid using microwave to get faster internet'

People should avoid using the microwave at the same time as their wi-fi , media regulator Ofcom has said , as part of advice to help improve internet speeds .
It comes as millions work remotely and rely on streaming services after the UK was told to `` stay at home '' .
This has put pressure on broadband providers , with BT 's Openreach reporting a 20 % surge in internet use .
The government said reliable internet speeds were `` crucial '' as the UK battles the coronavirus .
Ofcom 's advice ranges from the seemingly obvious , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streaming them when someone else may be trying to make a video call , to the less expected .
`` Did you know that microwave ovens can also reduce wi-fi signals ? ''
Ofcom asks .
`` So do n't use the microwave when you 're making video calls , watching HD videos or doing something important online . ''
• Position your internet router as far as possible from other devices that may interfere with the signal , such as on a table or shelf rather than the floor • Keep your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carrying out video calls or meetings , turning the video off and using audio will require much less of your internet connection • Try starting those calls at less common times , rather than on the hour or half hour • For the best broadband speeds , use an ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to your router rather than using wi-fi • Where possible , try not to use a telephone extension lead , as these can cause interference which could lower your speed .
Devices that can interfere with router @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monitors , halogen lamps , dimmer switches , stereos and computer speakers , TVs and monitors .
Ofcom also advised making calls on a landline where possible , citing an increase in the demand on mobile networks .
`` If you do need to use your mobile , try using your settings to turn on wi-fi calling , '' Ofcom said .
`` Similarly , you can make voice calls over the internet using apps like Facetime , Skype or WhatsApp . ''
The regulator also suggested disconnecting devices that were not in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to your wi-fi , the lower the speed you get , '' it said .
`` Devices like tablets and smartphones often work in the background , so try switching wi-fi reception off on these when you 're not using them . ''
Ofcom is not the only organisation taking action to maximise internet speeds during the lockdown .
Streaming platforms including Facebook , Netflix , Disney+ and YouTube have already reduced the quality of videos in an attempt to ease the strain on internet service providers .
But the internet companies say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which maintains the telephone cables and cabinets across the country used by most broadband providers , said that - despite the jump - usage is still lower than the usual peaks it experiences in the evening .
`` We 're not seeing any significant issues across our broadband or phone network , '' an Openreach spokesman said .
`` We 've seen a circa 20 % increase in daytime usage over our fibre network , but that 's in line with what we expected and not as high as the usage levels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health

Openreach, which maintains the telephone cables and cabinets across the country used by most broadband providers, said that - despite the jump - usage is still lower than the usual peaks it experiences in the evening.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Parliament expected to close on Wednesday evening

Parliament is expected to close on Wednesday evening after emergency laws to deal with the coronavirus have been passed .
MPs will vote to plan for a managed return on Tuesday 21 April , to deal with Budget legislation .
The House of Commons had been due to break for Easter on 31 March .
However , concerns had been raised that keeping Parliament open was contributing to the spread of the virus .
The Cabinet are expected to continue to meet via video conferencing .
BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg said Westminster had been considered one of the hotspots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs had been in self-isolation with symptoms .
Health Minister Nadine Dorries was one of those who had contracted the virus .
• MPs stay away from House of Commons chamber Our political editor said MPs could return on 21 April to pass Budget legislation , but then be asked to vote to suspend the Commons again - although nothing is finalised .
While the House of Commons is on recess , MPs will still be able to respond to and help their constituents .
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle had urged MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chamber , as well as introducing a staggered voting system to ensure MPs kept a safe distance from each other .
Leader of the House of Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg said he was grateful MPs , peers and staff had worked to complete the emergency legislation .
The bill gives the government new emergency powers to combat the spread of the disease , and is expected to clear all stages in Parliament on Wednesday once it is approved by the House of Lords .
Mr Rees Mogg said : `` Further discussions will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and members to ensure Parliament operates safely for all those who work there .
`` The legislature must be able to continue its vital democratic functions of conducting scrutiny , authorising spending and making laws . ''
Labour MP Chris Bryant criticised the timing of the decision arguing : `` It must be wrong that Parliament is suspended before the government has a proper package in place for the self employed . ''
Another Labour MP , David Lammy , agreed and said : `` The government should announce a solution today .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' And their party colleague Barry Sheerman called for `` new ways of maintaining proper scrutiny of the government '' .

Announcing the extended Commons recess, Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: "Before the House adjourns, can I just say - I wish every member well, your families, and once again to reiterate, that the staff in this House have done a fantastic job."


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Watford Football club offers stadium to NHS

Premier League football club Watford have offered the use of their Vicarage Road stadium to help the NHS in their fight against the coronavirus pandemic .
The ground is next to Watford General Hospital and chairman Scott Duxbury said the club would do `` whatever it takes '' to support the health service .
The ground had been due to host events such as induction courses and meetings .
A West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust ( WHHT ) spokeswoman said it was `` very grateful for their support '' .
The club said there was easy access straight into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taylor Stand and it was `` ready to act accordingly '' when senior NHS staff had co-ordinated the trust 's exact requirements .
These could include NHS staff courses , urgent meeting spaces , warehousing needs and childcare facilities .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Mr Duxbury said : `` We need to forget football right now and concentrate on doing all we can to support the NHS and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Our proximity as a football club next door to a hospital puts us in a great position to offer help and we 're keen to do whatever we possibly can to support NHS staff and their families .
`` The UK government 's message has been about doing 'whatever it takes ' .
Likewise , we 'll do 'whatever it takes ' here at Vicarage Road to offer our fullest support to the NHS and its people at a time when it 's clearly needed most . ''
WHHT chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had found itself `` needing extra space very quickly '' for things like running refresher training for clinical staff so they could care for patients with breathing difficulties .
`` We also need more space so that we can stick to important guidance about social distancing for our staff induction sessions and for key meetings when we need our senior leadership teams around the table , '' she said .
`` The club 's support is helping us to run our organisation safely and we are very grateful for their support at this @ @ @ @

"The UK government's message has been about doing 'whatever it takes'. Likewise, we'll do 'whatever it takes' here at Vicarage Road to offer our fullest support to the NHS and its people at a time when it's clearly needed most."


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Walsall couple live stream wedding on Facebook

A couple whose dream wedding was thrown into doubt by coronavirus restrictions held the service a month early and streamed it to 100 guests on Facebook .
But instead they married at St Matthew 's Church , Walsall , on Saturday , sensing their original date was doomed .
Mrs Groom said they `` took the opportunity while we could '' .
The government has since ordered services to be cancelled .
`` Richard had seen the situation in the UK was heating up and had floated the idea of bringing the wedding forward , '' said Mrs Groom , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` When the prime minister started restrictions [ last week ] , another person said 'why not get married now ? '
but we had put a year and a half into planning our perfect wedding .
`` We knew there was no way we would be able to get married in April , so we took the opportunity while we could . ''
During overhauled preparations , Mrs Groom was living in a shared house with 12 other people , and they all pitched in to help pull together the wedding in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wear in April was not ready in time so the housemates sourced another , as well as arranging photographs and flowers .
The housemates were the couple 's only attending guests , with others watching the service through the Facebook live stream .
`` The people we have talked to so far have said they felt part of it , even from a distance , and we are really happy we were able to have that option available to them , '' Mrs Groom said .
Rev Jim Trood , who led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be honest , I found it quite emotional when they were making the promises in sickness and in health - it was a powerful thing to be saying . ''
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"The people we have talked to so far have said they felt part of it, even from a distance, and we are really happy we were able to have that option available to them," Mrs Groom said.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: GP given masks with expiry dates that have passed

A GP has criticised the practice of giving doctors surgical masks with expiry dates that have passed .
Dr Kate Jack said doctors felt `` like cannon fodder '' after discovering the paper masks had expired in 2016 .
A box delivered to her Nottingham surgery had a 2021 label placed over the original date of 2016 .
The Department of Health and Social Care ( DHSC ) said equipment underwent `` stringent tests '' and was given a `` new shelf-life '' where appropriate .
`` I do n't feel protected at the moment , '' said Dr Jack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` They are really not designed for prevention of infection and are practically useless .
`` But they do give a message to patients to take this infection seriously if they see us with the masks , gloves and aprons . ''
Dr Jack , from the West Oak Surgery in Mapperley , said concerns had been raised by doctors nationwide who had received the same boxes .
`` Even if they are safe to use we have n't been given much reassurance they are going to protect us , '' added Dr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I know the government have a really difficult job and difficult decisions to make , but I feel like doctors are unappreciated and I 'm wondering why I should bother putting my life on the line . ''
A DHSC spokesman said all protective equipment for GPs was safe and `` would effectively protect staff '' .
He added that NHS Supply Chain and Public Health England worked with manufacturers to test products and consider extending their life .
`` The products that pass these stringent tests are subject to relabelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can continue to be used .
All that are not up to standard will be destroyed . ''
Another GP said it was `` deceptive '' not telling GPs about relabelling .
Dr John Hughes wrote : `` Regardless of whether or not the masks have been reassessed as potentially still functional , this reflects an incredible arrogance and disregard for both clinicians and public/patient safety , as if inadequate , risk is as much to patients as to the doctors using them . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram .
Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews @ bbc.co.uk .

Dr John Hughes wrote: "Regardless of whether or not the masks have been reassessed as potentially still functional, this reflects an incredible arrogance and disregard for both clinicians and public/patient safety, as if inadequate, risk is as much to patients as to the doctors using them."


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: 'Symptoms' at three immigration removal centres

Three immigration removal centres in the UK are housing people with symptoms of coronavirus , the BBC has been told .
One of them , Brook House immigration removal centre ( IRC ) near Gatwick Airport , has been placed on `` lockdown '' , according to detainees .
A High Court case later will decide if detainees should be temporarily released while the coronavirus crisis is ongoing .
The Home Office says it is following guidance from Public Health England .
It says Brook House IRC , in West Sussex , is taking the necessary measures to ensure the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detainees .
Detainees told the BBC they have been sent a note informing them that emergency measures would be introduced requiring them to remain in their rooms with controlled access to showers and fresh air .
In normal circumstances , most detainees in IRCs are released back into the community after they are found to have a right to remain in the UK or while they are awaiting the outcome of their case .
Detainees and charities say three of the UK 's seven immigration removal centres currently have people quarantined with symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centres have spoken to the BBC .
Detainees say they have not been provided with free soap in those three centres , making it impossible to follow guidelines on washing hands .
A detainee who has a role of cleaning inside one of the centres - Harmondsworth , in west London - said he was aware of a cell not being cleaned after a man with symptoms was moved elsewhere to be quarantined and a new detainee was moved in .
He said : `` The way we 're being treated is disgusting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cells ... .
without [ the cells ] being cleaned .
`` I felt sorry for the [ detainee that was moved in ] , the person knew nothing about the cell '' , he said .
The Home Office says bedrooms are deep-cleaned after a detainee has left isolation and handwashing facilities are available in all immigration removal centres .
A detainee in Brook House says he saw a man who served food in the canteen be escorted by staff to isolation .
He said the man was so breathless that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` He had been serving food the day before , '' he said .
During the coronavirus pandemic , the BBC has been told by immigration lawyers that the Home Office has continued to arrest people and place them in IRCs , including in the last few days .
However , the lawyers have told the BBC there is an inability to remove people to their countries of origin because of a lack of deportation flights .
Toufique Hossain of Duncan Lewis solicitors says `` it is now abundantly clear the Secretary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simply because removals can no longer take place . ''
Mr Hossain says a client of his legal firm who is living with HIV was detained as recently as last week .
Another detainee has told the BBC he was arrested in early March with a cough and a fever , but was still transferred to Morton Hall IRC in Lincolnshire .
He was asked by a nurse - who was wearing no personal protective equipment - why he had been sent there given that he was displaying symptoms .
He has since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sankey , from the Detention Action campaign group which is taking the legal action in the High Court , says IRCs need to be closed immediately .
`` These are not closed centres , they 're not like cruise ships , staff go in and out of detention centres as visitors , and indeed the majority of people detained in our immigration estate will eventually be released back into the community , '' she said .
`` It 's not only inhumane to carry on detaining people in these circumstances , but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nationally . ''
The BBC understands that around 900 detainees were in the UK 's immigration removal centres last Friday , after the release of 300 people last week .
Later on Wednesday , in the High Court , Detention Action is taking legal action against the Home Office .
A government statement said : `` Decisions to detain are made on a case-by-case basis and kept under constant review , but our priority is to maintain the lawful detention of the most high-harm individuals , including foreign national offenders . ''

A detainee who has a role of cleaning inside one of the centres - Harmondsworth, in west London - said he was aware of a cell not being cleaned after a man with symptoms was moved elsewhere to be quarantined and a new detainee was moved in.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: What are the new restrictions and why are they needed?

A series of strict new measures to fight the coronavirus outbreak have been announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
In a televised address , he said a `` moment of national emergency '' meant staying at home was necessary to protect the NHS and save lives .
When are people allowed to leave their homes ?
Mr Johnson said everybody should stay at home and would only be allowed to leave for specific reasons : • Shopping for `` basic necessities '' , as infrequently as possible .
People should use delivery services , where they can • Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help a vulnerable person • Travelling to and from work , but only if it is `` absolutely necessary '' People should not meet friends or family members who do not live with them .
What other new measures are there ?
• Shops selling `` non-essential goods '' including clothes and electronics stores will be closed immediately • Libraries , playgrounds , outdoor gyms and places of worship will also close • Gatherings of more than two people ( excluding people who live together ) will be banned • There will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be allowed • Parks will remain open but people are only to go out to exercise once a day All of the new measures will last for three weeks from 23 March before being reviewed .
How will the measures be enforced ?
The police will be given the powers to make sure people follow the measures - by dispersing groups and issuing fines .
The National Police Chiefs ' Council told the BBC that officers would be talking to people and explaining why they should n't be out .
If they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would then be given a fine .
However , fines wo n't be issued until Parliament passes the emergency legislation - which should be by the end of Thursday .
Downing Street says fines could initially be set at £30 , but that could increase significantly if people do n't comply .
Councils will also play a role to make sure local businesses follow the rules .
The Local Government Association says that `` anyone who sees a business breaching government closure restrictions should report it to their local council so it can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• NEW GUIDANCE : What must I do ?
• NEW RESTRICTIONS : What are they ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Some other types of non-food retailers are also allowed to stay open , according to government guidance : If a customer visits any of these premises , they need to ensure they stick to the social distancing rules .
Customers should still be able to receive online deliveries .
Amazon said there would be some changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and healthcare products ) being prioritised .
That means that delivery times for other items may take longer than usual .
In order to avoid any unnecessary contact , Amazon in-home deliveries have been paused and drivers have been advised to place packages at the customer 's doorstep and step back .
This means bulky items , like fridges and washing machines , will not be brought directly into homes .
John Lewis says it 's still offering home deliveries for larger items such as furniture and home appliances , but will no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Royal Mail is still operating its service for parcels and letters , but with some delays and alterations .
What else do I need to know ?
• Parents who live separately will be allowed to move children under 18 between their houses • People can still use takeaway shops and delivery companies .
However , customers must not eat or drink while waiting • Outside exercise is allowed .
However , this can only be done once a day , either on your own , or with the people you live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ automatic six-month extension for all MOTs due for cars , motorcycles and light vans from 30 March onwards .
Vehicles must be kept roadworthy , and garages will remain open for repairs • MOTs due before then should be booked , unless you or anyone in your household is self-isolating • MOTs due for lorries , buses and trailers have already been suspended for up to three months • Driving tests in England , Scotland and Wales have been suspended for up to three months , except for critical workers .
All practical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until 22 June 2020 .
Read more : Can my car still get an MOT ?
And other questions How does the UK compare to other countries ?
Many countries have already imposed severe restrictions on their populations .
• The whole of Italy has been on lockdown since 9 March , with people only allowed out if strictly necessary • Meetings of more than two have been banned in Germany .
One German state , Bavaria , has imposed general restrictions on going outdoors for two weeks • More and more US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one in three Americans now being told not to leave home • Australia has shut down non-essential services , although schools remain open in some states Why are tougher restrictions being introduced ?
The government had already told people to only go out when necessary - for example , to buy food and medicine , or for exercise - and keep 2m ( 6ft ) apart .
This is known as social distancing .
However , since this advice was issued , there have been many examples of people not following it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ spaces were packed with people .
Snowdonia National Park , for example , said it had experienced the `` busiest ever visitor day in living memory '' .
Why do people need to stay apart ?
Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs small droplets into the air .
These can be breathed in , or cause an infection if you touch a surface they have landed on , and then touch your face with unwashed hands .

If you leave your home or gather in public for any reason other than those allowed, the police may instruct you to go home or disperse. They may also instruct you to stop your children from also breaking the rules. They also have the power to take you home or arrest you.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Is loss of sense of taste and smell a symptom? And other questions

The UK government has introduced strict new measures to try to slow the spread of coronavirus .
But what are you still allowed to do ?
Here are the answers to some of the most common readers ' questions .
My car is due its MOT .
Are garages still open and doing this service ?
- Stewart Oxley , Coulby Newham The government has granted a temporary six-month MOT extension to all cars , motorcycles and light vans which have an MOT due from 30 March .
However , it says that all vehicles need to be kept in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a garage if they need repairs ( garages are allowed to remain open under the new restrictions ) .
Vehicles due for an MOT before 30 March should still be taken in for testing , unless their owner is self-isolating .
MOTs have been suspended for lorries , buses and trailers for up to three months .
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency ( DVSA ) has also suspended driving and motorcycle tests in England , Scotland and Wales for up to three months from 21 March , except for critical workers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspended in Northern Ireland until 22 June .
Can divorced parents keep seeing their kids even if they live in different houses ?
- Safia Finlay , Lymington Yes .
The government guidance on staying at home says : `` Where parents do not live in the same household , children under 18 can be moved between their parents ' homes . ''
Cabinet Minister Michael Gove has also tweeted a message in answer to claims that advice had not been clear enough .
He said that while children should not normally be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary in these circumstances .
I 'm a single mum of a one-year-old and an intensive care nurse for the NHS .
I usually use family for childcare , now I ca n't .
How do I continue ?
- Kelly , 35 , Bristol Nurseries , childminders and other registered childcare settings are among the places that are staying open to look after the children of key workers such as nurses .
They wo n't all be able to stay open if they have staff shortages caused by the virus , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to help .
Local authorities are working with the government to make sure children are cared for and will help by providing transport to childcare settings if it 's needed - so contacting them would be a good first step .
Gingerbread , the charity supporting single parents , also has a helpline for those wanting advice at this time .
We 're due to move house this Friday .
Can we ?
- James Stone , Bristol The government is yet to issue official advice for those who have already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ house .
The campaign group Homeowners Alliance says it would suggest going through with the move if you can , although it says you may struggle with getting your belongings moved .
It also advises you to speak to all of those involved in the process as soon as possible - your solicitor , your buyer and/or seller and your removals company .
Will deliveries from non-essential shops still go ahead ?
- Jake , Earley You should expect deliveries of existing orders to go ahead .
Government guidelines say that online shopping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and postal and delivery services will run as usual .
Postal workers will no longer ask customers to sign for deliveries , but will log the recipient 's name instead .
If items ca n't fit through letterboxes , they will leave them at the door and step aside to a safe distance to allow people to retrieve their goods .
Retailer John Lewis says it 's still offering home deliveries for large items such as furniture or home appliances , but not home installation or assembly .
Currys and AO are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if anyone in the household is self-isolating , items will be delivered to the doorstep .
What if I need to take my pet to a vet ?
- Tania Barr , Langford Vets across the UK remain open , but the latest government advice is that practices should only provide emergency care and must reduce face-to-face contact as much as possible .
Until more detailed advice is published , people should only go to the vet if they are seeking non-routine , urgent care ( or essential food ) for their animals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ house ?
- David , Merstham Tradespeople are not currently on the list of non-essential businesses and premises that the government says must shut ( the list is here ) .
That said , the government has banned public gatherings of any more than two people .
An exception is made where the gathering is essential for work purposes , `` but workers should be trying to minimise all meetings and other gatherings in the workplace '' .
If tradespeople need to be called out to your home , keep 2m apart and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit .
I sell online and post my goods .
Can I still go the Post Office ?
- Kathryn Lowe , Ibstock Post offices are among the shops and outlets which the government has said will remain open .
However , if you visit a post office , make sure you follow the government guidelines on social distancing .
This includes staying 2m away from staff and other customers , and not gathering in large groups .
Shops and post offices are also required to practise queue control - outside their premises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from me .
Can we visit each other ?
- Trevor Sumnerson , Sheffield No , this would go against the new government measures .
In his statement , Boris Johnson said : `` If your friends ask you to meet , you should say no .
You should not be meeting family members who do not live in your home . ''
An exception for this would be if you provided essential care for your partner or vice versa .
People have also been told not to make any unnecessary journeys .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown ?
- Roy Nicholson , Weybridge Speaking after the announcement of the new government restrictions , Michael Gove said he thought it was `` perfectly sensible for people to go to an allotment '' .
Rules on social distancing would apply for tending an allotment - as with all other activities outside the house - but Mr Gove said that it was `` in the very nature of allotments that there 's a safe distance between people who are working on individual allotments '' .
What questions do you have about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

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


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Joe Wicks keeps children fit with online PE classes

Fitness coach , Joe Wicks , has offered to become the UK 's PE teacher by running free classes every @ @ @ @ @ parents to keep fit while self-isolating .
The trainer was due to start a school @ @ @ @ @ healthy living this week , but the coronavirus outbreak changed those plans when schools were @ @ @ @ @ How to be the school of Mum and Dad during shutdown • •How to help @ @ @ @ @ school

Fitness coach, Joe Wicks, has offered to become the UK's PE teacher by running free classes every weekday for children and their parents to keep fit while self-isolating.
The trainer was due to start a school tour to promote fitness and healthy living this week, but the coronavirus outbreak changed those plans when schools were told to close.
Read more: School apps struggle with 'unprecedented demand'


bbcuk--2020-03-25--The Papers: Volunteer 'army' and NHS workers 'threat to quit'

It is , claims the i , the biggest week for the NHS since it was founded in 1948 .
The Sun focuses on a plan to recruit 250,000 health volunteers to help tackle coronavirus - describing it as the `` National Help Service '' .
The Daily Mirror believes the transformation of the ExCeL Centre in east London into a field hospital for up to 4,000 patients should be a `` wake-up call for those still in denial about the horror that is to be unleashed '' .
The Daily Telegraph offers an insight into the pressures facing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call between health chiefs yesterday , one of NHS England 's national directors said London would run out of intensive care beds in just four days without urgent action .
The Sun praises the heroic work being done by the NHS , but it fears it will not cope without a monumental national effort of a kind not seen for 80 years .
The main story in the Daily Express is devoted to a pledge by Health Secretary Matt Hancock to buy 3.5 million antibody tests .
The Times reports that Mr Hancock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests for the virus will be available for NHS staff .
The Guardian says there is a risk the massive recruitment drive to help contain the pandemic will be undermined by doctors quitting because of fears about inadequate protective equipment .
The Financial Times says it is inexcusable that frontline staff members are dealing with virus patients `` dressed in paper masks and their own aprons '' .
The Mirror accuses Boris Johnson and his government of being `` criminally slow to respond to the threat '' - but thinks there is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back , bolstered by medical volunteers and recently retired staff .
The Times argues that while Mr Johnson may have got it right this week , it questions why Britain has not learned from South Korea - which has so far been conspicuously successful in bringing its outbreak under control by carrying out extensive testing .
Get news from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning The back page of the Daily Star has an image of the Olympic flame still burning , despite Tokyo 2020 being postponed until next year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the decision , accepting that sport should take a back seat in the midst of the global pandemic .
Matt Dickinson in the Times wonders why the decision took so long .
It was , he writes , `` insulting the intelligence - not to mention unfair to the efforts of thousands of anxious athletes - to pretend otherwise for any longer '' .
The sketch writers find plenty of material in the first daily Downing Street briefing conducted with journalists asking questions from remote locations .
John Crace in the Guardian describes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harries `` unexpectedly found herself in the role of agony aunt '' as she was asked for guidance on whether or not couples who do not live together should visit each other .
For Quentin Letts in the Times that question - from the Sun 's Tom Newton-Dunn - was best yet about the lockdown .
Another journalist who took part was Paul Waugh , from HuffPost UK .
He admits that when he appeared on screen , he looked like a `` vicar in a hostage video '' .
His excuse was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept him in the attic '' .

The Times argues that while Mr Johnson may have got it right this week, it questions why Britain has not learned from South Korea - which has so far been conspicuously successful in bringing its outbreak under control by carrying out extensive testing.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Covid-19 assessment centre to open in Derry

A new centre to assess people with coronavirus will open in Londonderry on Wednesday .
Suspected cases will be assessed by GPs at the out-of-hours Western Urgent Care building at Altnagelvin Hospital .
The most seriously ill patients will then be transferred to specialist wards Dr Tom Black from the British Medical Association ( BMA ) said it was hoped 13 of the centres would be operating within a week .
They are not test centres and are not for walk-ins .
The centres allow assessments for coronavirus to be moved away from normal GP practices to help manage the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get the virus .
They will also allow GP practices to stay open for triage and non-coronavirus consultations and it is hoped it will stop too many GPs and their staff becoming infected at the same time .
Dr Black said GPs would be drafted in from their own practices to treat coronavirus patients with the appropriate care .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Visual guide to the outbreak He described the new centre as the `` middle ground '' for the moderate to severe cases that need assessed .
`` We need to make sure the only ones that get into hospital are the ones that need to go to hospital , '' he said .
He told BBC Radio Foyle the centres were not walk-in services and people will not be tested for coronavirus at them .
`` You phone your GP as usual , your GP will talk to you advise you whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Some will be advised to stay home and others will be so severe they will be sent to Altnagelvin by ambulance , '' he explained .
Dr Black said the centre would categorise the most at-risk patients and determine where best to place them , as resources will soon be limited .
`` We are going to run out of hospital beds , intensive care units and ventilators very quickly , '' he said .
BBC Radio Ulster 's The Nolan Show revealed on Wednesday morning that two people were in hospital after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care home in north Belfast .
The father of one resident - who has not tested positive for the virus - said he was `` very concerned '' and wanted reassurances that `` everything was being done to protect residents and staff '' .
In a statement to The Nolan Show , the home said staff had phoned the nominated contact of every resident to inform them .
It added it was treating the situation `` with the utmost seriousness '' and had put a number of measures in place , including taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily , as well as using `` enhanced cleaning and disinfecting procedures throughout the entire facility '' .
Earlier in March it was announced the Mater Hospital will be the main site for treating coronavirus patients in the Belfast Health Trust Area .
Meanwhile Northern Ireland 's health service is to to access all hospital beds across the private sector .

"We can't on one hand ask people to stay at home and follow advice and ignore it for those who are out at work.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Dartington Estate in row over 'shadowy' dossier on opponents

A cash-strapped country estate selling land for housing has compiled a `` shadowy list '' of personal information on objectors , it has emerged .
The list of Save Dartington members included information on personal relationships and interests .
Save Dartington accused the Dartington Hall estate in Devon of `` becoming increasingly paranoid '' about those opposed to the sale of land .
The trust , which accepted it was a trust document , declined to comment .
The Dartington Hall estate , a centre for learning , ecology and the arts , was created in 1925 when American heiress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,200 acres of land and buildings dating back to the 14th Century .
In 2019 the Dartington Hall Trust said it was losing about £8,000 a day and listed a number of measures to try to balance the books .
Among the measures was the sale of parcels of land for housing , which has attracted opposition from campaigners Save Dartington .
In a document seen by campaigners , more than 20 members were listed alongside details of where they lived , membership of organisations such as local authorities and other groups including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some members included information about personal relationships , where they went to school , former workplaces , interests and activities such as music , art and a gym membership .
Rob Hopkins , from Save Dartington , said : `` I feel really sad that somehow in the culture at the top of that organisation they would prefer to make shadowy lists of our members than to really listen .
`` They are sitting in a bunker becoming increasingly paranoid about the people that oppose them .
`` It also raises important questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ managed and if it was made available to staff , which is quite troubling . ''
The estate told staff in February that since the announcement about its financial situation in 2019 , `` savings of over £1m have been made '' .

Rob Hopkins, from Save Dartington, said: "I feel really sad that somehow in the culture at the top of that organisation they would prefer to make shadowy lists of our members than to really listen.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Chloe Middleton: Coronavirus victim, 21, 'had no health issues'

A 21-year-old woman with no underlying conditions has died after contracting coronavirus , according to her family .
In a Facebook post , her aunt Emily Mistry said Ms Middleton `` had passed away from Covid-19 '' and urged others to `` do your bit '' to stop the spread of the disease .
According to government figures , most patients who have died with coronavirus had pre-existing medical conditions .
There have been concerns that younger people were ignoring warnings over its spread , believing the contagion was only a danger to the elderly .
But in a series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family urged the public to heed safety advice and take the virus `` seriously '' .
Her mother , Diane Middleton , wrote : `` Please think again .
`` Speaking from a personal experience , this so-called virus has taken the life of my 21-year-old daughter . ''
Ms Mistry added : `` My beautiful , kind-hearted 21 year old niece has passed away from Covid-19 .
`` She had no underlying health conditions . ''
She said the family was `` shattered beyond belief '' .
`` The reality of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very eyes , '' she added .
`` Please , please adhere to government guidelines .
`` Do your bit .
Protect yourselves and protect others .
The virus is n't spreading , people are spreading the virus . ''
• Should young people be worried about coronavirus ?
Ms Middleton 's sister , Amy Louise , added that it was `` about time people took this seriously , before too many people end up in this devastating position '' .
An 18-year-old man who died in hospital at the weekend after testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underlying health issues '' .
How deadly is the coronavirus ?
The elderly and the unwell are more likely to die if they contract coronavirus .
But even among older people , `` the great majority will have a mild or moderate disease '' , according to the UK 's chief medical advisor , Prof Chris Whitty .
He also pointed out some young people have ended up in intensive care , and should therefore not dismiss it as a `` trivial infection '' .
Current estimates from Imperial College London are that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ higher than average for those over 80 , and much lower for those under 40 .
As well as age , those with diabetes , high blood pressure or heart or breathing problems are also deemed more at risk .
Read more : How deadly is the coronavirus ?
• 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 • TRAVEL PLANS : What are @ @ @

Current estimates from Imperial College London are that the death rate is almost 10 times higher than average for those over 80, and much lower for those under 40.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Parliament shuts down for a month

Parliament has shut down until 21 April at the earliest to combat the spread of coronavirus .
Emergency laws to deal with the pandemic have been rushed through both Houses and were given Royal Assent earlier on Wednesday .
MPs voted to plan for a managed return to work on Tuesday 21 April , to deal with Budget legislation .
The House of Commons had been due to break for Easter next week but concerns were raised about spreading the virus .
The Scottish Parliament chamber was shut down on Tuesday but MSPs will return on 1 April in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Welsh Assembly , full sessions will be replaced by `` emergency Senedd '' meetings during the coronavirus crisis and will include fewer members .
• MPs stay away from House of Commons chamber Announcing the extended Commons recess , Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said : `` Before the House adjourns , can I just say - I wish every member well , your families , and once again to reiterate , that the staff in this House have done a fantastic job . ''
He said work was under way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay connected during the break , including the possibility of `` virtual parliament and virtual select committees '' .
Sir Lindsay Hoyle had been urging MPs to sit further apart while attending the chamber , as well as introducing a staggered voting system to ensure MPs kept a safe distance from each other .
Speaking earlier , Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg said he was grateful MPs , peers and staff had worked to complete the emergency legislation .
He told MPs the `` aim '' was for them to return to work on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would `` keep the situation under review in terms of medical advice '' .
Legislation giving the government new emergency powers to combat the spread of the disease and to release funds to deal with the crisis cleared all stages in Parliament on Wednesday , and has now become law .
Deputy Speaker Eleanor Laing announced that the Coronavirus Act 2020 and the Contingencies Fund Act 2020 had been granted Royal Assent .
Earlier , Sir Lindsay doubled the length of Prime Minister 's Questions to an hour , to allow for debate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing on the green benches .
MPs asking questions in the first half of the session filed out of the chamber to make way for the remainder of the MPs who wanted to put questions to Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
• Corbyn bows out from PMQs with campaigning vow It was Jeremy Corbyn 's final PMQs as Leader of the Opposition .
He will stand down as leader of the Labour party on 4 April .
Mr Corbyn urged Mr Johnson to make himself `` available for scrutiny '' during the parliamentary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are desperately worried about their health and their economic well being '' .
Mr Johnson promised to work with the Commons Speaker to ensure Parliament is kept informed .
Leader of the House of Lords Baroness Evans told peers they would also break early for Easter on Wednesday evening .
She said that after the recess , peers would only sit three days a week on Tuesdays , Wednesdays and Thursdays until the VE Day long weekend in May .
She added that `` sensible adjustments '' needed to be made to working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ senior officials were working with the Parliamentary Digital Service to develop `` effective remote collaboration and video conferencing '' .
The Cabinet are expected to continue to meet via video conferencing .
BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg said Westminster had been considered one of the hotspots of the disease and a fair few MPs had been in self-isolation with symptoms .
MPs could return on 21 April to pass Budget legislation , but then be asked to vote to suspend the Commons again - although nothing is finalised .
While the House of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still be able to respond to and help their constituents .
Labour MP Chris Bryant criticised the timing of the decision to close Parliament , arguing : `` It must be wrong that Parliament is suspended before the government has a proper package in place for the self employed . ''
Another Labour MP , David Lammy , agreed and said : `` The government should announce a solution today .
We can not leave anyone behind . ''
And their party colleague Barry Sheerman called for `` new ways of maintaining proper @ @ @ @ @ @


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Government orders 10,000 ventilators from Dyson

The government has ordered 10,000 ventilators from Dyson to help deal with the coronavirus crisis .
The firm , headed by British inventor Sir James Dyson , said it had designed a new type of ventilator in response to a call on behalf of the NHS .
The order is still subject to the devices passing stringent medical tests but that is expected to happen quickly .
Dyson has had hundreds of engineers working round the clock to design the ventilators from scratch .
It hopes to build the ventilators at scale from its UK base in Wiltshire - using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parachutes in the second world war .
However , the blitz spirit the company is keen to channel will not produce immediate results .
It is thought that even if regulatory approval is forthcoming , it could take a couple of weeks to move from prototype to the device being made in significant scale .
• A ventilator is a machine that helps a person breathe by getting oxygen into the lungs and removing carbon dioxide • Ventilators can be used to help a person breathe if they have lung disease or another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can also be used during and post-surgery • A tube , connected to a ventilator machine , is placed in a person 's mouth , nose or through a small cut in the throat ( called a tracheostomy ) Dyson - which is working with The Technology Partnership , a medical company based in Cambridge - is not the only game in town .
In the meantime , the government has told the BBC that is `` picking the low-hanging fruit '' by buying as many existing models as it can .
Currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ventilators , the government thinks it can procure a further 8,000 from existing domestic and international suppliers .
However , it estimates that the NHS will need at least 30,000 to deal with the potential flood of virus victims .
The race is on By way of comparison , the state of New York has targeted the same number of 30,000 required ventilators , even though it has a population one third the size of the UK 's .
The race has been on for weeks to produce tens of thousands of ventilators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alive .
In one corner is vacuum and hairdryer maker , Dyson .
In another is a consortium of manufacturing companies including Airbus and GKN , which makes parts for cars and planes .
The approaches of these two groups are very different .
Dyson insiders have told the BBC they have a working prototype , designed and built from scratch , which has been tested on humans and is `` ready to go '' .
Meanwhile , the consortium of medical , military and civil engineering companies - which includes Airbus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working to ramp up the production of an existing design .
Usually , these processes would take months or even years .
It is a measure of the current emergency that the decision making process has been reduced to days .

"When it comes to miles eight to 10, those ventilators that are currently being procured and ordered from around the world will be very helpful, although the lack of ventilation available right now is a real issue."


bbcuk--2020-03-25--The companies that need workers

The companies that need workers

Tens of thousands of people have lost their jobs because of the coronavirus crisis as restaurants , bars , hotels and gyms have been forced to close .
But many companies still in business are urgently seeking more staff to meet orders , help with deliveries and just to keep things moving .
The major supermarkets are searching for 35,000 additional workers , but many other firms supplying essential goods or services are also looking for extra help so they can cope with the increased demand .
Home care company Cera has just created 10,000 new jobs for people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community .
Meanwhile , chemist chain Lloyds Pharmacy is seeking 1,500 workers across the country in the next few days .
And Virgin Media says it needs 500 new people at Birmingham , Sheffield , Manchester and Teesside .
The government should help by reallocating some workers in sectors that have temporarily shut down to parts of the economy facing labour shortages , reckons think tank the Institute for Fiscal Studies .
It pointed out the coronavirus pandemic has led to sharp falls in labour demand in many corners of the economy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other sectors .
To help , the government should remove barriers to taking up temporary jobs , facilitate worker loans between firms and sectors , and subsidise retraining where appropriate , it said .
`` There is an urgent need to reallocate some workers , '' said Xiaowei Xu , a senior research economist at IFS .
`` At a minimum , the government should remove barriers to fill much-needed roles . ''
Where are the jobs ?
Tesco said last week it is bringing in up to 20,000 new colleagues to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next twelve weeks .
You can apply here .
Asda said it wanted to recruit more than 5,000 temporary staff from the pool of workers whose jobs have been impacted by the virus .
Here is the application site .
Aldi announced it was looking to fill 5,000 new temporary posts and take on 4,000 permanent new workers for jobs in all its stores and distribution centres .
Details can be found here .
Morrisons said it would be recruiting about 2,500 pickers and drivers , plus 1,000 staff in its distribution centres @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lidl said it would create about 2,500 temporary jobs across its 800 stores in the UK .
The jobs site is here .
The home care company is looking for 10,000 people to provide immediate relief and support to the NHS and elderly in isolation .
It said it will provide training and certification for people to begin working as professional carers , noting that workers can start earning income in just 10 days .
The majority of positions will be in the following regions : London , King 's Lynn , Norwich @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Old Stratford , Nottinghamshire , Staffordshire , Cumbria , Lancashire , Wiltshire , Essex , Kent , and Abercynon .
`` These are long-term positions within our company , and we hope this will encourage those recently left without work , or even those currently employed , to consider getting trained and becoming part of this crucial community , '' said Horus Patel , chief technical officer of Cera .
Information about roles at Cera can be found here .
The chemist chain needs 1,500 temporary and permanent roles filling over the coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , delivery drivers and warehouse staff across its 1,400 branches .
`` We know this is a difficult time , with many people struggling with job losses or redundancies , so we hope that this opportunity will provide some hope for those who need it most , as well as helping us to continue providing a first-class healthcare service , '' said Toby Anderson , chief executive of Lloyds Pharmacy .
`` It 's also an opportunity to contribute to your local community and those that need the help most of all .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to apply , click here .
The phone and internet company is creating 500 new UK contact centre jobs to help keep customers connected during the coronavirus pandemic .
New jobs are being created at locations across the country on both a permanent and fixed-term basis .
Roles will be based in Birmingham , Sheffield , Manchester and Teesside .
`` We 're working day and night to keep the country connected and make sure services are running smoothly , '' said Abby Thomas , an executive director at Virgin Media .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really proud to soon be welcoming hundreds of new staff to our contact centres who will help us continue to serve our customers . ''
The poultry giant is searching for hundreds of temporary staff to work at its processing sites across the UK .
The company is looking for people to join its teams across a range of roles in its agriculture and production operations .
`` There has been a noticeable increase in grocery sales as people practice social distancing and self-isolate , '' said Kirsty Wilkins , Moy Park 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has resulted in a heightened demand for chicken produce and with it , opportunities in the sector to meet this demand . ''
Find out more here .
The social care charity has hundreds of new vacancies across the country .
It says : `` We are currently recruiting for hundreds of support worker roles across England and Scotland to help support vulnerable people with their daily routines . ''
Candidates can register their interest here .
If your company needs workers right now , send us the details of what you need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll add it to the list .
How have you been affected by the issues relating to coronavirus ?
Share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
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"For those people who have recently lost a role in hospitality, or retail that might have transferable skills we want to let you know that we are here for you and can offer you the opportunity of employment," said chief executive Martin Jones.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Drivers to get six-month emergency MOT extension

Motorists worried about getting an MOT because of the coronavirus crisis , have been handed a six-month reprieve .
The government has granted car owners a six-month exemption from MOT testing .
However , it wo n't come in until Monday 30 March which means vehicles due an MOT before then must still take it .
The exemption `` will enable vital services such as deliveries to continue , frontline workers to get to work , and people get essential food and medicine , '' the government said .
The exemption will apply to cars , motorcycles and vans , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be kept in a roadworthy condition .
Garages will remain open for essential repair work while drivers will face prosecution if they 're caught driving unsafe vehicles .
`` We must ensure those on the frontline of helping the nation combat COVID19 are able to do so , '' said Transport Secretary Grant Shapps .
`` Safety is key , which is why garages will remain open for essential repair work . ''
The Department for Transport said the move wo n't hit any insurance claims during the period because they will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain valid for insurance purposes .
The new law will be introduced on 30 March when it will come into immediate effect for 12 months .
• What are the new restrictions and why are they needed ?
• How long can I exercise for ?
and other questions answered • What 's the risk of taking buses or trains ?
It is not being introduced immediately because the government said it must ensure regulations are legally sound before coming into force .
That means there will be a short consultation with key @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drivers will still need to get their vehicle tested until the new regulations come into place if they need to travel .
However , if someone is unable to get an MOT that is due because they are self isolating , the Department for Transport said it is working with insurers and the police to ensure people are not unfairly penalised for things out of their control .
Practical driving tests and annual testing for lorries , buses and coaches have already been suspended for up to three months .
The RAC said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although drivers must remain responsible .
`` We are in exceptional times and that calls for exceptional measures like this , '' an RAC spokesperson said .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak '' But it 's vital every driver remembers the roadworthiness of their car is their responsibility .
If they know it 's got problems or was likely to fail its MOT they should not be driving it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country , extra precautions have already been put in place to protect customers and workers .
At National Tyres and Autocare , for instance , staff routinely wear protective barrier gloves , fit seat covers and use floor mats before working on customers ' vehicles .
Meanwhile , technicians work on ramps that are suitably spaced apart and customers do not need to interact with staff in the workshop 's space .
`` Our customers have been asking if they still need to MOT their vehicles and , of course , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roadworthy , so today 's announcement that MOTs will be exempt for the next six months is welcome news for everybody , '' said Michael Bourne , marketing director at the firm .
`` We all recognise our role to stop the spread of germs , while keeping key workers on the road and able to do their jobs , '' he said .

"Our customers have been asking if they still need to MOT their vehicles and, of course, it's vital that everything is maintained and kept roadworthy, so today's announcement that MOTs will be exempt for the next six months is welcome news for everybody," said Michael Bourne, marketing director at the firm.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Off-licences added to list of 'essential' retailers

Off-licences have been added to the government 's list of essential UK retailers allowed to stay open during the coronavirus pandemic .
The list was updated on Wednesday amid increasing reports supermarkets are selling out of some beers and wines .
A major pub chain has said `` almost all '' its business had gone to supermarkets .
The move came as bicycle and car parts retailer Halfords had to defend its decision to keep shops open .
The list of essential retailers put together by the Cabinet Office now includes `` off-licences and licensed shops selling alcohol , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurants have been required to close under the new restrictions , prompting complaints from the head of Wetherspoons pub chain , Tim Martin , who said that most of the chain 's trade had gone to supermarkets .
Exactly what qualifies as an `` essential business '' is causing confusion in some quarters .
The director general of the CBI business organisation Carolyn Fairbairn says many firms `` do not know whether to stay open or to close '' .
She is asking the government clarify the situation for businesses .
Halfords is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boss Graham Stapleton said the chain had `` an essential role to play in keeping the country moving '' .
Its Autocentre garages and mobile vans remain open , with plans for `` partial store coverage '' across its 446 shops .
The chain drew criticism after saying it would keep some stores open after being named by the government as an `` essential provider of services '' .
# BoycottHalfords was trending on social media on Tuesday .
Some Twitter users cited concerns over a lack of protection for on-site workers while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questioned whether the business should be open at all .
In a trading update , the firm said : `` We are committed to playing our part , but only if we can ensure the health and safety of our colleagues and customers . ''
It also said it had the `` legal flexibility to remain open across the entire business '' .
Mr Stapleton said his chain had a part to play `` in providing vital support to emergency workers , fleet operations and the general population as they travel for essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was offering all NHS frontline workers a free 10-point car check during the coronavirus pandemic .
It comes as the government announced it would grant drivers a six-month emergency MOT extension under new regulation due to come into force on 30 March to ensure `` frontline workers to get to work '' .
Other bicycle firms such as Brompton Bicycle , a folding bike specialist , have lent bicycles to staff at hospitals in London to help them get to and from work .
And some people on social media supported Halfords ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
High Street retailer Next has confirmed it 's offering some staff a 20 per cent pay rise if they volunteer to go into stores to help pick online orders , despite government warnings to stay at home .
While all of its stores are closed to the public , the retailer says there are some items in its shops which have already been ordered and promised to online customers .
The retailer said a `` very small group of volunteers '' will pick the orders under `` strict supervision and social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were brought in by government earlier this week , it issued a list of “ essential retailers ” , such as Halfords , that are allowed to stay open .
They include : • Off-licences and licensed shops selling alcohol , including those within breweries Trade industry bodies had previously said that bicycle retailers and repair shops had seen a spike in demand as people `` clean the cobwebs off '' their old bikes in an attempt to avoid public transport during the pandemic .
Jonathan Harrison of the Association of Cycle Traders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been an uplift in sales across the board , with larger retailers also reporting more 'entry-level ' bikes going . ''
However , he pointed out that with more consumers staying in due to the new government restrictions , `` it 's difficult to know whether or not that trend will continue . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health

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bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Home tests won't be available 'next week'

A test to see whether someone has already had coronavirus is being developed , but will not be available within days , the UK government 's chief medical adviser says .
`` I do not think - and I want to be clear - that this is something we 'll suddenly be ordering on the internet next week , '' Prof Chris Whitty said .
An antibody test would let people find out if they had already had the virus .
This could allow doctors and nurses with immunity to return to work .
Earlier , Prof Sharon Peacock from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3.5 million antibody tests had been bought and were already being evaluated .
Once shown to be effective , she said `` people will be able to order a test or go to Boots to have their finger-prick test done '' in the `` near future '' .
But Prof Whitty said these tests had n't yet been validated .
`` The one thing that is worse than no test , is a bad test , '' he added .
He said experts would also be collecting information from the results of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` the right people get the test first in order to allow workers to go back '' .
Prof Whitty said the priority was still to scale up antigen tests - which tell you if someone currently has the illness .
These are only available to patients in hospital at the moment , but there are plans to extend them to NHS workers .
During the prime minister 's daily press conference , Prof Whitty said that if everyone kept to social distancing rules , the outbreak was `` probably manageable '' although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close-run thing '' for the NHS .
`` At this point in time , as of today , there is not enormous pressure on critical care compared to a bad or even normal winter 's day , '' he said .
The expectation is that pressure will increase over the next two or so weeks .
This message was echoed by infectious diseases expert Prof Neil Ferguson , who was questioned by the science and technology MPs ' committee on Wednesday .
He said keeping people inside and increasing NHS staff and beds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( ICUs ) from being overwhelmed nationally .
Prof Ferguson told MPs that he believed the government 's current strategy would mean `` in some areas of the country , ICUs will get very close to capacity but it wo n't be breached at a national level '' .
`` There will be areas of the country which are extremely stressed , but we are reasonably confident - which is all we can be at the current time - that , at the national level , we will be in capacity , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the country 's response to the crisis , Prof Ferguson was responsible for the Imperial College modelling that changed the government 's approach and led to stricter social distancing measures being brought in .
These measures are aimed at completely suppressing the spread of the virus and preventing the health service being overwhelmed .
The combination of keeping people in their homes and making more NHS resources available is predicted to bring demand down to a level hospitals can manage .
There would be some resurgence of cases later , Prof Ferguson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hopefully be kept at a low level through more intensive testing .
He told the committee that the latest research suggested as many as half to two-thirds of deaths from coronavirus might have happened this year anyway , because most fatalities were among people at the end of their lives or with other health conditions .
The peak of demand for intensive care is expected to come in two to three weeks .
The challenge the UK , and other countries , would then face , Prof Ferguson said , was how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation where some semblance of normal life could be allowed to restart , while still keeping coronavirus cases low .
Part of this would be about significantly increasing the numbers of people being tested , until a vaccine could be found .
But , Prof Ferguson added , the UK did not currently have the capacity to test on the level of countries such as South Korea .
There are plans to expand testing capability significantly , first for the sickest people , then for NHS workers and then eventually to find out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already had the virus .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • UK LATEST : What 's the UK 's plan and what could happen next ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak How have you been affected by the issues relating to coronavirus ?
Share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the following ways : • Please read our terms & conditions and privacy policy

"There will be areas of the country which are extremely stressed but we are reasonably confident - which is all we can be at the current time - that, at the national level, we will be in capacity," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--UK broke law over IS 'Beatles' by passing information to US

The UK acted unlawfully by passing evidence to the US that could lead to the execution of two British members of an Islamic State murder squad .
The Supreme Court said former Home Secretary Sajid Javid should not have passed information on Shafee Elsheikh and Alexander Kotey to the US .
Lord Kerr said the seven justices concluded the decision in 2018 breached the UK 's strict data protection laws .
The Londoners , linked to 27 murders , are in US custody in Iraq .
Along with two other British men , they formed a foursome known as `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kidnap , torture and murder hostages .
They were seized by Kurdish forces in 2018 as the Islamic State group began to crumble - and the US says it wants to prosecute them if the UK wo n't put the men on trial in London .
Last year , the government agreed to hand over as many as 600 witness statements and related material after initially refusing to do so without a guarantee they would n't face the death penalty .
Elsheikh 's mother , Maha Elgizouli , challenged the home secretary 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US - not to prevent him from being prosecuted and jailed but to protect him from the death penalty .
Welcoming the ruling , her lawyers said she recognised the difficult issues her case had raised .
`` She has always expressed her belief that her son , if accused , should face justice - and that any trial should take place in the UK , '' they said in a statement .
`` She has been asking since November 2018 for the CPS to conduct a review of the claim that there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charged and tried in the UK - a review that the CPS now says should be completed by April 2020 . ''
Now the court has ruled in her favour .
There must be a further decision over what the UK must now do to comply with the law - including potentially asking the US to hand back information .
A Home Office spokesperson said : `` The government 's priority has always been to maintain national security and to deliver justice for the victims and their families .
This has not changed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today 's judgment and are carefully considering next steps . ''
Explaining the judgment over an unprecedented video link , due to coronavirus measures , Lord Kerr said : `` Much of the information provided , or to be provided , to the US authorities consisted of personal data .
He said a transfer of personal data to a third country was only lawful if it was based on there being appropriate safeguards or on special circumstances .
`` Here there was no adequacy decision and no appropriate safeguards , '' he added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the decision , British diplomats in Washington warned Mr Javid that US President Donald Trump would be `` wound up '' by any continued refusal by London to hand over the information American prosecutors needed .
Lord Kerr said the decision by Mr Javid to transfer the information was `` based on political expediency , rather than strict necessity '' .
The seven justices however were split over whether the UK had a more wide-ranging legal bar on sharing any information with the US that could put someone at risk of capital punishment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone to face trial in the US or other countries unless it first receives an assurance that they will not be put to death .
However , the law on sharing information that could be used against someone already in the other country 's custody , is less clear .
Lord Kerr said : `` Law must be responsive to society 's contemporary needs , standards and values , which are in a state of constant change .
That is an essential part of the human condition and experience .
`` I concluded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ principle should be recognised whereby it is deemed unlawful to facilitate the trial of any individual in a foreign country where , to do so , would put that person in peril of being executed . ''
A majority of the other justices disagreed - concluding that the law did not extend that far because Parliament had not explicitly banned ministers from sharing information on criminals with countries that use the death penalty .

"She has been asking since November 2018 for the CPS to conduct a review of the claim that there was insufficient evidence for him to be charged and tried in the UK - a review that the CPS now says should be completed by April 2020."


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: How long can I exercise for each day? And other questions

The UK government has introduced strict new measures to try to slow the spread of coronavirus .
Here are the answers to some of the most common readers ' questions .
Is there a time limit on how long we can be outside for once-a-day exercise , and are we allowed to get in our car to travel to go for a walk ?
- Sam Fearn , York The current government guidance is to take `` one form of exercise a day , for example a run , walk or cycle - alone or with members of your household @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the length of exercise , although Cabinet Minister Michael Gove said on Tuesday that `` people can go for the standard length of run or walk that they ordinarily would have done .
But… the important thing is , once a day '' .
Nothing expressly forbids people driving somewhere to go for a walk , but scenes last weekend - where tourist attractions such as Snowdonia attracted larger than usual crowds , and with them , the risk of spreading the virus - suggest that this may not be a good idea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you will be able to maintain a social distance of more than 2m ( 6ft ) from other people wherever you go .
I lost my sense of taste and smell over seven days ago .
Is this a symptom ?
- Liz Clarke , Manchester Ear , nose and throat specialists in the UK have also noticed rising reports of anosmia - the term for loss of smell .
And increasing numbers of people on social media have been reporting a lost sense of smell and taste .
Some have tested positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far is only anecdotal and viruses behind the common cold often lead to lost senses of smell and/or taste .
My car is due its MOT .
Are garages still open and doing this service ?
- Stewart Oxley , Coulby Newham The government has granted a temporary six-month MOT extension to all cars , motorcycles and light vans which have an MOT due from 30 March .
However , it says that all vehicles need to be kept in a roadworthy condition , and taken to a garage if they need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open under the new restrictions ) .
Vehicles due for an MOT before 30 March should still be taken in for testing , unless their owner is self-isolating .
MOTs have been suspended for lorries , buses and trailers for up to three months .
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency ( DVSA ) has also suspended driving and motorcycle tests in England , Scotland and Wales for up to three months from 21 March , except for critical workers .
All practical driving tests are also currently suspended in Northern Ireland until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person and social interaction is needed with my carer .
Is he allowed to visit me ?
- Lee Thompson , Barrow-in-Furness If your carer is providing essential support , the government says that this should continue as normal , as long as the carer does n't have symptoms of coronavirus .
It 's advised that any visitors to your home should wash their hands for 20 seconds with water and soap before and regularly during their visit , and keep a distance of 2m ( 6ft ) away from you .
Additionally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ list of alternative people who can help you if your carer becomes ill. What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • UK LATEST : What 's the UK 's plan and what could happen next ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak If somebody develops any symptoms of Covid-19 , what action should someone pregnant in the house take regarding isolation ?
- Billy , Suffolk If someone in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government advises vulnerable people - like those who are pregnant or over 70 years old - to stay with friends or family if they can during the isolation period of 14 days .
If this is not possible , stay away from the individual with symptoms as much as possible .
There is no evidence yet that pregnant women ( and their babies ) are at greater risk if they catch coronavirus , but the government says that they should be extra cautious for now .
I work for the NHS and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see her father .
How can I assure I 'm not spreading the virus around the two families ?
- Lisa Bishop , Godalming If neither parent nor child is showing symptoms of the virus or self-isolating , children of separated parents are still allowed to stay with either of them .
Government guidance on staying at home says : `` Where parents do not live in the same household , children under 18 can be moved between their parents ' homes . ''
However , the Family Division of the High Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales , if one parent is worried that moving their child would be going against public health advice , they may `` exercise their parental responsibility and vary the arrangement to one that they consider to be safe '' , even if the other parent does not agree .
Where this is the case , family courts will expect parents to allow contact by video chat or phone .
Cats and dogs in urban areas are being stroked by strangers .
Can coronavirus be carried on their fur and infect other people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Okehampton , England Even without the risk of coronavirus , you should always wash your hands after stroking , or otherwise handling animals .
But while it 's thought that Covid-19 was originally passed to humans from animals , it is still not known how , and there are no recorded instances of humans catching it from their pets .
The World Organisation for Animal Health ( OIE ) says that it does n't appear that pets are responsible for spreading the virus .
However , further tests are being carried out to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The OIE also recommends that people who are sick or receiving medical treatment for Covid-19 , should avoid close contact with their pets , and have someone else care for their animals .
If they must look after their pet , they should maintain good hygiene practices and wear a face mask if possible .
What questions do you have about coronavirus ?
In some cases , your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Prince of Wales tests positive

The Prince of Wales has tested positive for coronavirus , Clarence House has announced .
Prince Charles , 71 , @ @ @ @ @ but otherwise remains in good health '' , a spokesman said , adding that the @ @ @ @ @ , has been tested but does not have the virus .
Royal Correspondent Jonny Dymond @ @ @ @ @ now self-isolating at Balmoral .

The Prince of Wales has tested positive for coronavirus, Clarence House has announced.
Prince Charles, 71, is displaying mild symptoms "but otherwise remains in good health", a spokesman said, adding that the Duchess of Cornwall, 72, has been tested but does not have the virus.
Royal Correspondent Jonny Dymond says Charles and Camilla are now self-isolating at Balmoral.


bbcuk--2020-03-25--The UK couple self-isolating in a Turkish car park

A British couple who set off on a round-the-world trip in a camper van now find themselves trapped in a @ @ @ @ @ Istanbul , Turkey .
Chris and Marianne Fisher , from Shropshire , left in January @ @ @ @ @ following their Tread the Globe exploits online .
The coronavirus outbreak has left them as @ @ @ @ @ £10-a-night car park , although they do have access to washing and toilet facilities at @ @ @ @ @

A British couple who set off on a round-the-world trip in a camper van now find themselves trapped in a deserted public car park in Istanbul, Turkey.
Chris and Marianne Fisher, from Shropshire, left in January and have thousands of people following their Tread the Globe exploits online.
The coronavirus outbreak has left them as the sole residents of a £10-a-night car park, although they do have access to washing and toilet facilities at a neighbouring sports ground.
Video journalist: John Bray


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Southend NHS worker makes emotional 'stay at home' plea

An NHS worker has made an emotional appeal for people to stay at home during the coronavirus outbreak , as @ @ @ @ @ to protect loved ones .
Chanice Cushion , a medical emergency assistant in Southend , @ @ @ @ @ to protect her mother-in-law , who lives with her and has health problems .
In @ @ @ @ @ , Ms Cushion described having to say goodbye to her partner and two-year-old child .
@ @ @ @ @ I have to go to work , '' she said .
`` Protect the vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ be infecting .
From the NHS workers , from the doctors , to everybody from @ @ @ @ @ . ''

An NHS worker has made an emotional appeal for people to stay at home during the coronavirus outbreak, as she leaves her family home to protect loved ones.
Chanice Cushion, a medical emergency assistant in Southend, has chosen to live elsewhere to protect her mother-in-law, who lives with her and has health problems.
In the video posted on Facebook, Ms Cushion described having to say goodbye to her partner and two-year-old child.
"I'm petrified but I have to go to work," she said.
"Protect the vulnerable people that you could potentially be infecting. From the NHS workers, from the doctors, to everybody from everybody. Stay at home."


bbcuk--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: ExCel centre hospital conversion begins

Work is under way to boost NHS capacity by turning London 's ExCel centre in the Docklands into a makeshift @ @ @ @ @ after up to 4,000 people .

Work is under way to boost NHS capacity by turning London's ExCel centre in the Docklands into a makeshift field hospital capable of looking after up to 4,000 people.